Review of A Bad Think album ‘The Tragic End Of A Dreamer’

A Bad Think recently released The Tragic End Of A Dreamer. This rock-alternative project is led by former A Flock Of Seagulls drummer Michael Marquart.

A Bad Think released their latest album, The Tragic End Of A Dreamer, earlier this year. Led by former A Flock Of Seagulls drummer Michael Marquart, the Los Angeles-based band delivers a rock-alternative progressive sound on this record. Marquart is responsible for songwriting, drums, guitar, bass, keyboards and lead vocals – making him a one-man band. The album has an overall somber tonality about it. However, it maintains an engaging flow – often with a full orchestral feeling.

The Tragic End of a Dreamer opens with “No Way Out.” This track begins with a somewhat haunting set of chords. A pared-down southern rock leaning marks this song, evoking dark and dusty roads. The underlying rhythm here causes listeners to sway. Meanwhile, distant vocals and somber ambient tones draw audiences in. Though not a traditional opening track – this kicks off the album on a blue-grey note – it is a strong start to the record.

The second track, “Now You’re Gone,” seems to pick up right where “No Way Out” left off. Though the tempo accelerates and the vocals become more present, it feels like an ongoing conversation rather than a different page. “Win Or Lose” takes it up another notch. With sonar-like tones punctuating the tune, slightly grungy vocals and guitar work create a dynamic counterpoint.

Whether a happy accident or intentional, it seems clear from the start that The Tragic End Of A Dreamer contains an overall sonic arch. The record does not read like a random assortment of tracks. Scattered throughout are varied moods and tones, but each seems to lead naturally into the next.

An interesting cocktail from A Bad Think

“Stay” is a standout track on this record. The piano-heavy and emotional tune beautifully incorporates wailing background vocals and sparse, but intense percussion for maximum impact. Another highlight in the middle of this record is “The Animal.” This song opens in an eerie combination of abstract tones and breath. These elements disassemble shortly before listeners are swept into the body of the song. In a steady upward arch, the song builds momentum. Though the vocals here seem a bit strained, it somehow suits the track.

The Tragic End Of A Dreamer contains an interesting combination of influences. Though generally defined as alternative rock, there are many more identifiable inclinations contained here. Hints of folk, classic rock, orchestral work, ambient and darkwave make appearances on the record. The closing track, “Amnesia,” is a perfect example. Opening with ambient backgrounds and folk-infused guitar, it moves through rock vocals, a sparse instrumental and a sweeping full sound, before closing back where it began.

A Bad Think turned in a strong record with The Tragic End Of A Dreamer. The particular stylistic cocktail Marquart presents is fascinating and engaging.