The Father of Make Believe is the latest instalment in the cinematic fantasy world that Coheed and Cambria have meticulously crafted over the last 30 years. It’s openly more personal in nature than previous albums but The Amory Wars storyline and Sci-Fi emo prog rock atmosphere that the band are known for are still as present.
The catchy, anthemic tracks that are scattered amongst both the delicate and spacey, and the heavier prog metal that make up the rest of the album, are some of the strongest moments. “Goodbye, Sunshine” and “One Last Miracle” in particular stand out as highlights, their upbeat, singalong melodies impossible not to imagine on future setlists.
As ever with Coheed and Cambria, there is a tenderness and certain romance weaved throughout the album. Sweet ballad “Meri of Merci” continues the story of previous characters based on the grandparents of singer Claudio Sanchez, Sirius and Meri Amory. Sanchez’ vocals shine with the delicacy in which he sings their story, and the emotion is palpable. “Corner My Confidence” is filled with the same sweetness and poetry, a style that it would feel neglectful for the band to have missed from this album. Much like Good Apollo, I’m Burning Star IV, Volume One’s “Wake Up”, the simplicity of these tracks is only made more precious by the powerful and energetic songs that surround them.
The Father Of Make Believe is a display of everything that Coheed and Cambria are known and loved for, it draws listeners back into the created universe that they have come to care about but with more openness from Sanchez than ever before. It provides an imaginative escape, just like art should.
