Eisley Are Still Only Dreaming

Eisley have proven themselves to be a consistent staple in the scene for the past 20 years. In that time, the band has gone through several lineup changes, resulting in their current state, with Sherri DuPree-Bemis now acting as the only singer. It's a daunting thing to take on, but at the same time incredibly exciting. The desire to forge toward something new is palpable on new album I'm Only Dreaming.

Listening to the record, it's clear that DuPree-Bemis has taken the new challenge in stride. The rest of the band doesn't waste any time incorporating new sounds either. On "Sparking," a faint trip-hop beat flows through the undercurrent, while DuPree-Bemis' voice floats above. Will Yip's production is clear and a great direction for the band; their usual indie-pop dips into waters of spacier music on tracks like "You Are Mine." Throughout the record, DuPree-Bemis doesn't shoulder the vocal duties alone, as she's joined by the likes of Anthony Green of Saosin and Circa Survive, as well as her husband, Say Anything frontman Max Bemis. Her voice can easily keep up with Green's register, both vocalists swirling together to generate sweet feelings of bliss and beauty. Plus, any collaboration with Max is a surefire hit to the feels.

I'm Only Dreaming on the whole is a reminder that Eisley never left the table. Despite lineup changes, they continue to find ways to make their music more poignant. Fun songs are treated with the same care and affection as the more emotional offerings, combining both elements into something new. This is an album full of beautiful and delicate power.

Hear the full album below, and pre-order I'm Only Dreaming before it's out Friday on Equal Vision.