For those that may not know anything about the Dream Pop genre, here are the elements that make this genre what it is: soothing and ethereal vocals, fluid and very distorted guitars that are often more background instruments, and an air of relaxation. Ablaze covers all of these bases. Vocalist, Erin Welton, has a very beautiful voice that’s really a joy to listen to—very ethereal sounding. I actually get chills listening to her singing a few times on this album. If I were to compare her to another vocalist, I would say she sounds a bit like Chibi from The Birthday Massacre. Instrumentally, everything is very well played. The guitars on this album really add to the atmospheres created. Though the album is called Ablaze, the music on this album sounds more cool and soothing rather than warm and comforting.

Some highlights on this album include "Endlessly", "Fluttermoth", "Immortal Muse", and "Sea of Honesty". "Endlessly", the album opener contains some very nice keyboards that play throughout the song. The vocal melodies on this song are very catchy as well. "Fluttermoth" is probably my favorite song on the album—Dream Pop perfection! The vocals are absolutely perfect on this track. I get chills listening to some of Erin’s vocals on this track. "Immortal Muse", much like "Endlessly", contains a very addicting and beautiful chorus. "Sea of Honesty" is probably my second favorite track on this album. It’s a very fun and addictive little track with a wonderful acoustic guitar melody. The only clunker of a track on this album is "The Rhythm that Writhes." It’s a very dark track that contrasts way too harshly with the rest of the tracks on the album—there’s really nothing I like about it to be honest.

Ablaze is a very beautiful slice of Dream Pop goodness. There’s not much I really dislike about this album except for the horrible track "The Rhythm that Writhe." Recommended for all those who may be into the softer side of music.

8 / 10