Review | Rendezvous Point – Dream Chaser

Long Branch Records

Hailing from Norway, progmetallers Rendezvous Point return with their third studio album called ‘Dream Chaser’ and what a wonderful album it is, even though it only lasts thirty-seven minutes. The five-piece band around Leprous drummer Baard Kolstad delivers prog rock with some heavier elements, leaning on amazing melodies, emotional introspection. A 100% cohesive sound pushing the boundaries of progressive metal with biggest standout vocalist Geirmund Hansen. His vocal performance is really second to none on ‘Dream Chaser’. Just listen to the wonderful opening track ,,Don’t Look Up’’ or the album’s lead single ,,Oslo syndrome’’. It seems that Hansen’s voice is made for this type of songs.

COMPLEX THEMES

Dream Chaser deals with complex themes and delivers intricate compositions, which makes this an album that challenges the listeners. The music of Rendezvous Point really pushes the limits of progmetal. Reminding me of other great prog metal bands like Caligula’s Horse, Haken and Leprous, obviously!

All songs are executed more than excellent. Highlights are the already mentioned ,,Don’t Look Up’’ (with a grooving bass line), ,,The Tormented’’ (a real heavy complex dark song) and ,,Wildflower’’, which is packed with superbly versatile guitar riffing by Petter Hallaraker. ,,Still Water’’, the longest track of the album, closes this album. It is built on dramatic soundscapes and utterly amazing vocals.

IN CONCLUSION

Rendezvous Point have made an awesome album, which grows when you listen to it a lot, as I already did. Although this is “metal music” to a point, the songs are modern, wonderfully put together with a wide focus on groove, riffs, melodies and hooks. So in other words, a MUST have album.

Release date: 21 June 2024