Migrant Returned

Album Review

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4.5

Stars

Migrant Returned

The Dear Hunter

USA

Ten years on, The Dear Hunter revisits their 2013 release "Migrant" – an album I personally cherished, but which received a mosaic of reactions from fans, and even some reservations from Casey Crescenzo himself. This new rendition, "Migrant Returned," transcends a mere rehash; it's an inspired reimagining born from a deep reverence for the original.

Though the modifications in the album are plentiful, they're executed with artistry. The foundational soul of each track is preserved, but with a revamped and deliberate structure. Notably, the murky indie rock resonance of the 2010s is replaced with a lucid mix, casting every instrument in sharp relief. A highlight includes Casey's wife, Tivoli, who graces the album with her vocal prowess, especially in reinterpreting the secondary vocals on “Like Crazy”, a role previously held by Noelle Scaggs of Fitz and the Tantrums.

This album doesn't just tip its hat to its forerunner; it uplifts and reinvents it, gifting listeners with a revitalized sonic experience.

This album doesn't just tip its hat to its forerunner; it uplifts and reinvents it, gifting listeners with a revitalized sonic experience. It's more than a retelling; it's an artful metamorphosis.

At Prog Radio, we jump at ANY chance to spotlight The Dear Hunter in our New Music rotation, and now, we have a lavish spread of 18 tracks to pick from. Given our leaning to the “melodic and accessible side of prog,” these songs fit right in. Please don’t come at us with the “but is it really prog?” lines, with the five “acts" Casey and crew have deliver plenty in that department, why not mix in some melodic heaven on an album or two? That’s honestly why these songs are so perfect for Prog Radio, some lovely pallet cleansers mixed in with our normal fair.

If you once sidestepped Migrant due to its polarized reception, now's your golden opportunity to rediscover what might have slipped past. Dive in and relish the musical evolution.