Daughtry – Dearly Beloved (Album Review)

For those who do not recall the history, the American Rock band Daughtry came together way back in 2006 following Chris Daughtry’s appearance as one of the finalists on American Idol. Separating themselves from the glossy talent show pigeonhole, Chris and his band solidified themselves with hit songs like “It’s Not Over” and “Home.” Now, over 15 years later, they are back with their sixth full-length studio album, Dearly Beloved out on Friday, September 17, 2021, via Dogtree Records. 

A band known for their energetic and powerful yet heartfelt music, this is exactly what you can expect with Dearly Beloved. Featuring 13 songs that span approximately 50 minutes, the talented lineup – lead by Chris Daughtry and featuring Josh Paul on bass, Brian Craddock on guitar, Josh Steely on guitar, Elvio Fernandes on keyboards, along with Brandon Maclin on drums – take their time in telling beautiful tales that will melt as they reach deep underneath the skin. In fact, the opening song “Desperation” is a thoughtful and melancholic offering that begins the LP in an emotional fashion. 

The following track, “World On Fire,” is more upbeat and filled with a Rock undertone, while the lyrics relay a vivid story that borders on a fairytale. It is definitely worth it to listen closely! The same goes for “Heavy is the Crown” before the hopeful “Changes Are Coming,” and “Somebody” which delivers another slow, thoughtful moment.

Continuing to weigh extremely heavy on the heart are cuts such as “Lioness,” the title-track “Dearly Beloved,” and “Cry For Help.” In this, the second half of the album seems to usher in a calmer vibe than the first, with the last four songs offering an experience that is quite melancholic. Meanwhile, the midway point is certainly more energetic and loaded with Rock music. Here you will find “Asylum,” one of the harsher songs of the album, with loud vocals plus heavy guitars on the bridge and chorus, followed by “Evil,” which might have a calmer verse, but with a chorus that comes blasting without an apology. Then there is “Victim” which is also one of the rougher tracks before the less intense, but no less appealing “Somebody” and “Call You Mine.”

Overall, this album has its ups and downs, just like life itself. You could say that Daughtry has created a fitting soundtrack for heartache and heartbreak. Each moment digs deep underneath your skin and will touch your heart in one way or another. The slower, melancholic tunes might cause some sobs, or at least some sighs, especially the closing track “Break Into My Heart,” which leaves behind a void. So, let Daughtry take you by the hand (and heart), and perhaps consider getting a new bucket of ice cream before you press play again… because it is going to be an emotional journey. For this, Cryptic Rock gives Dearly Beloved 5 out of 5 stars.