Mr Bones & The Dreamers are a collective I have been aware of for some time now and being a Birmingham based musician myself I must first congratulate Mr Bones for going so far against the grain. Around 90% of bands from the midlands consist of either vapid indie poseurs or trad-metal troglodytes. Indeed the midlands being what it is (middle England), a great deal of music from the area appears to shun extraneous influences and more often than not this results in a pretty dull, thoroughly 'British; sound. The music contained within 'The Absence of Light' however sounds significantly more American than it does British, with the sounds of Arcade Fire, Bright Eyes, The Decemberists and Neutral Milk Hotel proving obvious influences.

The kitchen sink approach Mr Bones & The Dreamers adopt might sink lesser bands, but here it really helps the arrangements shine and each member of the band really seems to bring an important dynamic element to the overall sound. This open, dynamic sound is backed up beautifully by a warm, lo-fi production which lends the songs a quirky character that might otherwise have been overlooked given the larger than life melodies on display.

Opener 'Are These Actual Miles' has an understated beginning that immediately brought to mind Lambchop's "Paperback Bible" but with more of a melancholic air of beauty. Tortured singer Keiran Goddard sings of gravity's pull with apt weight and when the rest of the band kick in after 50 seconds of subtle magic the song bursts into Technicolor. The key change in the chorus initially comes across as a bit of a twee misstep but after a couple of listens it's optimistic force proves one of the songs strongest attributes.

'The Towers' is an understated effort when compared to 'Miles' but the literate, intelligent lyrics manage to hold it together. The melody is a little lacking here though and there is nothing of the soaring melodrama which grips the rest of the EP. Indeed this is the only track of the four I'd consider skipping.

For my money (similarities to Savage Gardens "I'll Fly You To The Moon And Back' aside) 'Time To Rest' is the strongest song here and could prove the bands golden egg should it receive the right backing. There's a buzz around the song which would sound right at home on Glastonbury's pyramid stage and the individuals get to show their chops here for the first time. The violin and keyboards here mesh into a glorious, hair-raising racket which reaches it's apex at the songs cathartic climax. This song wouldn't have sounded out of place on The Arcade Fire's 'Funeral' album and that's probably the loftiest compliment I've ever offered an unsigned band.

Closer 'Lend Me A Looking Glass' takes proceedings into much darker territory with a traditional folk atmosphere that melds interestingly with sparse, post-rock guitars. It's a striking song which manages to alternate between despair and joy with thunderous abandon and ends the record on a high note, it's the kind of song tat makes you think "Christ i need to hear more of this band".

In conclusion "In The Absence Of Light" is a record which I would wholeheartedly recommend to anyone. There is a depth to the record which I haven't heard in British popular music since Hope Of The States "Lost Riots" and there is enough heart to fuel a thousand bodies. Mr Bones & The Dreamers are capable of truly wonderful things and on this evidence they are only just beginning to scratch the surface. Can't wait for the album!

Tracklisting

1. *Are These Actual Miles?*
2. The Towers
3. *Time To Rest*
4. *Lend Me A Looking Glass*