ALBUM REVIEW: Within – Protest The Hero
Many an obstacle has been thrown in the direction of Canadian progressive metal’s finest in recent years. From line-up changes to an almost debilitating illness, PROTEST THE HERO have had to claw their way through considerable adversity. Despite these setbacks they have overcome the odds and made their triumphant return in the shape of sixth full length album Within, their first fully independent release. A distinctly personal affair which confirms the spark is still very much burning brightly.
Mouthpiece is the ideal injection of energy to get Within off to a flying start. Swift riffing, addictive hooks and alluring melodies form an immediately impactful bond whilst a damning lyrical discourse detailing the current state of the world rings loudly. “In a world of vivid colour, our eyes are beaten grey” offers a particularly striking declaration. Fishhook adopts a vibrant punk-like swagger which takes a swing at generational ignorance. The enticing pacing and captivating narrative are cleverly stitched together with masterful musicianship. i. above provides a subtle, emotive interlude accompanied by strings evoking a cinematic quality.
Grandfather’s Axe kicks it up a gear with thrashy speed-infused grooves. Frontman Rody Walker utilises a spectrum of vocal quirks showing off his impressive range. The Orchard displays some slick techniques alongside soaring chorus lines and a comforting, warm tone. Longstanding collaborator Jadea Kelly returns to briefly contribute a soulful serenade.
ii. below brings another catchy, little intermission that neatly slots into the exhilarating pacing of Liberty Spike. The solemn lyrics and explosive instrumentation pose a stark but fascinating contrast. “A second song, for my first friend, whose loss this time, is permanent” leaves a lump in your throat. The Mariner is arguably one of the most ambitious and personal tracks to be inducted into PROTEST THE HERO‘s catalogue, clocking in at over seven minutes and vividly recalling the haunting moments when Walker encountered his vocal troubles while out on tour, cleverly including lyrics from Palimpsest‘s Migrant Mother and From The Sky to harken back to that fateful evening at Danforth Music Hall. It can be heard plain as day that Walker has made an astounding recovery and, to the joy of their adoring fanbase, is sounding better than ever. An uplifting and fitting end to another inspiring installment.
Within may feel fleeting in comparison to previous works but it is packed front to back with exemplary musicianship, enthralling lyricism and passion in abundance. This release stands just as tall and proudly as their most adorned efforts and makes a powerful statement that PROTEST THE HERO are going nowhere without a fight. Its comparably compact run-time makes it all the easier to cram in repeated listens to soak up every note and nuance. Yet another masterstroke by one of progressive metals key flagbearers.
Rating: 9/10
Within is available now via self-release.
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