MOG

'Before the Dawn Heals Us' is an album that I will be able to listen to for the rest of my life without tire. This record connected with me more than anything I've heard..maybe ever. It has the most massive, epic atmosphere of anything in my collection. This album is much more of a soundtrack than a rock record - yet, Anthony Gonzales managed to incorporate more rock elements into the songs than on previous M83 efforts. Intro track, "Moon Child", is a great indication for what the rest of the album is like. The (real) drumming on this album is relatively simple, but extremely powerful. The last track, "Lower your Eyelids to Die With the Sun" is a flawless way to tie up this collection of songs, with a sprawling 10-minute epic.

I think this would've been a perfect album if it wasn't for a few tracks that aren't quite as good - or as fitting as the rest. "Can't Stop" still has the right atmosphere, but the vocal loops bug me (nitpicky, i know). "Car Chase Terror" is interesting, but comes out of nowhere and breaks up the flow. The narration on the track could be laughable, depending on the mood of the listener. If it wasn't for these 2 songs, I would list this album as perfect. I can't wait to see what Gonzales does next.