"Before the Dawn Heals Us" is the third studio album by the French electronic music band M83, released on January 25, 2005. M83 was originally a duo composed of Nicolas Fromageau and Anthony Gonzalez, but "Before the Dawn Heals Us" was the first album released after Fromageau left, leaving Gonzalez as the sole member of the band.
The album continues M83's exploration of ambient and shoegaze sounds, but it also marks a progression toward more dynamic and emotive compositions. It blends elements of dream pop, ambient, and electronic music with lush instrumental arrangements and a cinematic feel.
The album is notable for its mix of instrumental tracks and songs with ethereal vocals. It showcases Gonzalez's ability to create expansive soundscapes that evoke strong emotions and narratives without relying heavily on lyrics. Some of the standout tracks include "Teen Angst," "Don't Save Us from the Flames," and "Lower Your Eyelids to Die with the Sun." These tracks highlight Gonzalez's interest in themes of dreams, nostalgia, and the interplay between light and darkness, which recur throughout M83's work.
"Before the Dawn Heals Us" received positive reviews from critics, who praised its ambitious sound and the emotional depth of the music. It helped solidify M83’s reputation in the electronic music scene and laid the groundwork for future successful releases, further establishing Anthony Gonzalez as a significant figure in the genre.
