Nothing Lasts Forever | Posted January-18-2024 What You Need To Know
Project 86 has been a staple in the Christian hard rock and metal scene for 20 years. They have announced that their time in the music world is ending as a band and launched a crowdfunding project to fund their last album, which was so successful that the band split efforts to make a two-part concept album, OMNI, which is finally released in full.
What It Sounds Like
Andrew Schwab, the lead singer, and writer, shared on the As The Story Grows podcast that he had believed he had a nodule that prevented him from performing with such aggressive vocals that he tried in earlier Project 86 music. In 2020, he saw a specialist who opened his vocals, and now he unleashes the most intense metal vocals Project 86 has ever seen.
In addition to incredible vocals, the band's instrumental prowess has only grown in intensity to match Andrew. However, OMNI as a whole also features a variety of creative elements hardly seen before. Fans will hear electronic/futuristic parts throughout the record, just like Part 1. In a preferred change, there are fewer conceptual interlude tracks/pieces in Part 2 than in Part 1, lending to an onslaught of heavy Project 86 music.
Spiritual Highlights
OMNI is conceptual, so some of the biblical basis previous Project 86 records have is generally less obvious. This post-apocalyptic, sci-fi theme is foreign in lyrical content. The main plot revolves around technology that allows man to merge with artificial intelligence to become immortal.
The lyrics are visual and narrative in nature. The longing for immortality, or more so to be something greater than ourselves, is a universal experience. This event and pursuit reveal man's corrupt nature more than ever before; the plans for godhood are ruined, and disaster strikes. There are moral and spiritual lessons to be learned from the storyline of OMNI parts 1 and 2 beneath the surface.
Best Song
Each song in a concept album is a part of a larger storyline. A few songs stand out on OMNI Pt. 2. "Complete The Circle" is a more direct narrative of the OMNI story, with the tyrannical antagonist declaring, "To upgrade we must dismantle/to remake we first destroy." This futuristic story's message is all too real throughout history: the reckless, careless progress of humanity without God is a world without peace or love. Another song that complements the story is the single "UltavioleNt." This song's lyrics portray victims of a world like this, people who feel paralyzed in terror.
OMNI is a magnum opus of Project 86 and Andrew Schwab. It is a package for long-term fans and plenty for newer fans to love. With Parts 1 and 2, OMNI will be a musical project that will echo in the minds of many fans for years to come, a showcase of musical expertise in balancing narrative, musical, and lyrical talent.
Lacey Sturm's Metanoia-filled Masterpiece | Posted November-15-2023 What You Need To Know
Lacey Sturmis most famous for formerly fronting the award-winning rock band Flyleaf. After her family grew, she stepped down and started authoring books and doing guest vocals occasionally. She eventually released a solo record, Life Screams, to positive critical acclaim. Seven years later, her sophomore solo record, Kenotic Metanoia, is available after five singles.
What It Sounds Like
Kenotic Metanoia follows and expands on the musical style that Lacey established with Life Screams. The musicianship is familiar, from the rock and roll guitar riffs, pounding drumming, and melodic elements weaved throughout. It sounds like a natural continuation with notable growth in quality.
This is a hard rock record whose music reflects Lacey's rich range of emotional vocal control. Some songs are significantly heavier, such as the intense, iconic screams in "The Decree" or "(I Died)" but most showcase the masterful balance of melodic ambiance mixed with gritty rock music.
Spiritual Highlights
Lacey has always championed the love and hope of Christ in her music and ministry, from Flyleaf to books, guest vocals, and solo music. Unsurprisingly, her second album follows in the same vein as her first. It was evident through the singles leading up to the release that Kenotic Metanoia would be a voice for recovery, healing, and hope. The remaining tracks on the album explore these themes, some from the perspective of God and humanity, while the rest are traditional.
Lacey urges listeners to take the steps needed for healing, such as "State of Me," telling us that "some may fear running to the unknown/please just tell me where else can we go." The same message is heard in "Are You Listening," she empathetically claims, "We don't wanna jump but/we don't want to stay here/oh my God, please help me." Each song on Kenotic Metanoia is emotionally deep, maturely written, and stems from an experienced life that is on fire for God.
Best Song
Although five singles were released in advance, the album's complete tracklist of fifteen songs, including an intro and outro, was kept a secret. Admittedly, some singles like "The Decree" and "State of Me" were noticeably musically heavier. But like Life Screams before it, most of the album is more consistently a mix of enchanting melody and captivating vocals.
Lacey knows how to write a gripping song; one of my favorites is "Not Your Fight." The song explores God's encouragement during our struggles and spiritual battles. The chorus reflects Lacey's empathy: "Don't be afraid/Let fears wash away tonight/'Cause know that this is not your fight." The timeless truth that God fights for us day and night is repeated, backed by musical excellence.
Lacey Sturm's second album, Kenotic Metanoia, solidifies her status as a foundational artist in modern rock. Even better, her influence spreads Godly hope, love, and peace among listeners through her music. Anyone who seeks to deepen their relationship with God will benefit from the songs on this album. And for any fan of rock music, the emotionally masterful vocals from Lacey and the outstanding musicianship from her band are sure to draw you in and offer a change in your life.
A Great Sophomore Record | Posted November-11-2023
What You Need To Know
Sand & Cinder, Tide & Timber is American Arson's second full-length studio record, following the success of 2020's A Line In The Sand. The hard rock band signed with Facedown Records and promoted their record through five singles, including the triple release of "The Heat." This self-proclaimed "two-man wall of sound" continues to tour, play festivals, and work hard to get their music out to all willing to listen.
What It Sounds Like
American Arson's style of hard rock is catchy and accessible to all fans of rock music. Some songs and styles lean more heavily into punk or hardcore genres, but altogether, it's a hard rock experience that's unique in its own right. The band's impressive use of loops, pedals, and instrumentation compensates for the absence of a full band in every song. There are two songs shorter than the rest, acting more as interludes.
Spiritual Highlights
I have loved American Arson's songwriting since their 2015 EP, The Blood and Bones. Their lyrics continue to be mature, provocative, thought-stirring, and hope-inspiring. Their Christian faith isn't hidden, yet it's not always the only centerpiece. They write about politics, mental health, the music industry, and more.
On this record specifically, you'll find more openly faith-influenced songs like "Hammer & Gavel, "Blood," and "Low Tide." The band's humble beginnings are displayed in "Adversity." Meanwhile, the band encourages their listeners with "Arrowheads" to stay focused on our victory found in Christ.
Best Song
Some of the best songwriting of 2023 comes with the "The Heat" trilogy of songs. A three-part address to the state of the Christian music industry, greed in the church, and idolatry. "Run" calls out the greed of the prosperity-focused preaches and bands, warning them to run before it catches up to them.
"Moonlight" exposes the idolatry of looking up to fallible heroes, even if they were respected people in the industry. "Goodbye" is the declaration that we don't want to be like those called out previously, willing to sacrifice to keep ourselves upright. It feels wrong to pick one of the three, so their trilogy serves as the album's best highlight.
Listening to Sand & Cinder Tide & Timber brings comfort and honesty to a world that often feels increasingly cold and fake. The genuine passion poured into each song is heard with empathy and sympathy for our complicated lives. Although "The Almighty Arsonist" and "Promises" feel more like interludes than full songs, they fall short compared to the rest of the album. American Arson continues to cement itself as an incredible musician, songwriter, and a powerful voice for this generation.
Theocracy's Every Song Adds To The Epic Mosaic | Posted October-29-2023
What You Need To Know:
Mosaic is Theocracy's fifth studio album after a much anticipated 7 years since their last record - Ghost Ship in 2016. Mosaic is a Christian-based progressive metal fronted by Matt Smith in Athens, Greece. The band signed with Atomic Fire for this release, rather than Ulterium Records as they have previously.
What It Sounds Like:
This album is progressive metal at its finest. Theocracy has never sounded so tight and skilled. Every track displays elements of progressive and power metal that every fan would enjoy - such as plenty of exciting guitar solos, chunky riffs, soaring vocals, and masterful musicianship all around. All but one song are high-energy, catchy, and addresses topics of spirituality and earthly struggle.
Spiritual Highlights:
Theocracy has always held the Bible as its first and foremost influence on songwriting and Mosaic is no exception. As you listen to the record, you will hear spiritual truths proclaimed - from the fragility and preciousness of life, the condemnation of evil, to Biblical stores put into song. The first of those being most predominant in the themes with songs addressing grief, death, and the value of life, even if short.
Best Song:
Mosaic is a record that is full of expertly written and performed songs. You have the standout ballad, "The Greatest Hope," that tackles grief with hope. There is the lead single, "Return to Dust," which is focused on our eternal hope but short lives on Earth. The epic closing song titled Red Sea is a 3-part story highlighting the Exodus story and transcending its relevance to our personal spiritual journeys.
But my favorite is the opening song, "Flicker." It encapsulates the album's themes well and exemplifies the musical expertise of the band and the incredible vocal range of Matt Smith. The songwriting is woven in such a way that you relate to the meaning of spiritual alienation on Earth while comforting with eternal hope from beyond this place.
The seven-year wait for Theocracy's new music was, as always, well worth the wait. Mosaic is one of, if not, the best of the five records we have received from the band to date. Every song is unique and intriguing, full of power metal excellence. To say that each song is a piece of a mosaic masterpiece is both fitting and well-deserved.
The variation in song lengths was a welcome showcase of songwriting skill, although I would have loved another mid-sized song, such as "I Am" or "Laying the Demon to Rest." That size is perfect for this band's skill set, though "Red Sea" made up for that in my opinion. Mosaic will be a hallmark of any power metal release in the years to come.
Conquering Metalcore | Posted October-12-2023 What You Need To Know
Dominion is War of Ages' 10th studio record and was released in partnership with Facedown Records like most of their music to date. They are a long-time staple in the Christian metal scene and continue to craft excellent Christ-centered metal. Dominion is a concept album, one of the firsts for the band to create - focusing on themes found in Revelation.
What It Sounds Like
War of Ages continues to center their music on a perfect balance of hardcore influenced metal music, leaning more into the hardcore style than metal, usually. From crushing breakdowns, energizing guitar solos, and soaring vocals, this record has all the foundations of a great metalcore record and hits all the right notes. Every fan of modern metalcore will find a song to love here.
Spiritual Highlights
One of my favorite aspects about War of Ages is their relentless passion for the Gospel. All their records are filled to the brim with mature and unabashed influence from the Bible. Some songs are more focused on relational struggles or mental battles, but you will never leave a record with hearing praise to God. Dominion is no different even focusing on judgement and damnation from the book of Revelation - which makes for a much more adamant songwriting perspective.
Best Song
Dominion is easily one of the best records in the War of Ages discography. From the soaring, gang vocals in the songs' choruses, to the blistering screams and growls, and all the filthy instrumentation. I think one of the best songs to exemplify the album's themes, showcase the band's incredible musicianship, and hit hard with the vocal style is "War."
As expected, it highlights the war that comes with Jesus' return, but with a somber proclamation that "there is nowhere to hide/no place to hide from truth" and praising His power with "war is His banner of conquest/destroying all who stand in His way!"
Dominion is proof that bands can continually grow and evolve over time while they still create music that is fresh and invigorating. There are few bands that are as bold in their faith as War of Ages and can still make the songs sound mature and relatable. The praise found in the songs' lyrics easily encourage Christians and hopefully can turn the hearts of unbelievers with the unmatched talent found in the band members. In memory of their late drummer Kaleb Luebchow, this record will be a testament to his legacy and musicianship. After 10 albums and 20 years, War of Ages is still one of the best metalcore bands on the scene today.
Rated Highly | Posted September-28-2023 What You Need To Know:
Rated R is a bit of a tongue-in-cheek name for RED. They are not bringing explicit lyrics or suggestive material with this release, rather, in their own words, it's the most unique and self-identifying music they've ever been able to make. This is the second record they've made off of a record label and the first that is fully created in-house.
What It Sounds Like:
Rated R features the most polished mix that I have heard from RED. From the first note and vocal run, you can tell this sounds different, in an effective way. Vocal styles range on this record more than others, too. The core of what identifies RED in a sea of hard rock still remains, though. As usual with RED, some songs are heavier with more screaming and lower tunings, while others lean into the melodic elements they masterfully weave.
Melodic songs like "Your Devil is a Ghost" remind me of songs like "Shadow and Soul" or "Already Over." Then you have the more straightforward hard rock songs that RED will always be known for, like "Minus It All" and "Cold World." There is something for fans of RED, new, and old, here. Unlike the original previous record, Declaration, there is a stripped-back ballad, "Tell Me How To Goodbye."
Spiritual Highlights:
RED has always written their songs from the relatable struggles of life that they maturely write about, but do not shy away from encouraging listeners with the underlying themes of faith and hope. They are not often the kind of songwriters that make their faith well-known on the surface of the songwriting, and Rated R is no exception.
The stories and themes of Rated R surround personal, internal battles, including feelings of apathy, loneliness, and surrender. Songs like "Last Forever" speak of this surrender with "I'm Calling Out Your Name" in the chorus, followed by "Emergency" calling out "I'm in my head again/without you I have nothing left/stay with me/rescue me!"
Best Song:
Even with a very enjoyable and tight collection of ten songs, some stand out more than others. The opening song, "Surrogates," sees the band trying a more experimental musical and vocal approach, which is fun. "Tell Me How To Say Goodbye" is a standout as the softest, most melodic song on the record, though isn't entirely as laid back as older ballads of theirs. But I love "Emergency." This closing track is climatic, and hopeful, and demonstrates the great musical expertise that we know RED is capable of.
RED's newest chapter in their independent musical journey is an immediate hallmark in their nearly 20 years as a band. But, a couple of the songs will blend right into their discography, which isn't entirely bad, but they don't stand out much. Rated R exemplifies RED as their best, a mix of soaring melodies, intense rock music, and mature lyrics that will meet you where you're at.
Deeper Waters: Drowning in Excellence | Posted August-08-2023 What You Need To Know
Cliffside, an independent metalcore band from Vancouver, Canada, released their debut WildernessEP in 2019 to positive critical reception. After writing during the pandemic and refining their sound, Cliffside released their first full-length record, Deeper Waters.
What It Sounds Like
In their first release, Cliffside has demonstrated incredible mastery over progressive metalcore and now Deeper Waters. Undeniably, they have made improvements in every aspect since the Wilderness EP. The result is a metalcore record full of intense breakdowns, commanding vocals, and tasteful riffs around every corner. Some of the current metalcore giants, such as Erra and Polaris, heavily influence the sound. Whether the influence is positive or generic, I love their mature take on the modern metalcore sound.
Spiritual Highlights
The band writes about various subjects, such as fatherless upbringing, substance addiction, and apathy. But the best part about listening to Deeper Waters is that you can hear the compassionate voice of faith and hope despite life's spiritual and physical struggles.
The title, Deeper Waters, has a double meaning. It can refer to the times we get pulled into the deeper mess of life's burdens and troubles, but it also offers the encouragement of grace. Grace can also be a deeper water that we dive into when we are hurt. The deeper we go, the more uncomfortable we can be, even if it's exactly what we need. Every song builds on these concepts, resulting in a mature, relatable, and encouraging record with hope and faith throughout.
Best Song
The whole record is a homerun with no filler songs. Most songs follow a formula similar to modern metalcore, with a catchy, bouncy chorus, lots of guitar riffage between verses, and heavy breakdowns. One of my favorites is "Greyscale," a prime example of their musical ex. Lead guitarist Joel Issler proves to be one of the best guitarists in the modern metal scene, with his chops on display here. The drums command your attention, while lead vocalist Taylor Thomas' vocals are undeniably as powerful and developed as many vocalists who've been doing this for years. The message of falling into apathy but pushing on for recovery is very relatable, too.
Deeper Waters is the ultimate expression of what a debut record should be - full of creativity, musical excellence, and expressive, mature songwriting. I know bands who have been making metal for 20 years who don't create music this great. Cliffside does a great job of writing about several relatable themes but keeping a coherent message of hope despite addiction, loneliness, and abandonment.
The only complaint I have is that there are some cliché lines of lyrics, and sonically, it would blend into a similar band's sounds if you weren't paying attention due to the apparent inspirations. But if four years is what it takes to get another record of this magnitude, I'm more than willing to wait. But let's hope there's less of a wait next time for new music from Cliffside.
Cultist: A Future Cult Classic | Posted July-25-2023 What You Need To Know
Cultist, a Christian deathcore band, released their second full-length record, Slow Suicide, under Facedown Records. Cultist is one of the heaviest bands on the roster, with several singles preceding the band's exciting album. Something more special about Cultist is that it has been a one-person project primarily led by musician Jon Davenport.
What It Sounds Like
Slow Suicide is an aggressive, non-stop, heavy musical journey through faith and life. Every song in the album's 27 minutes is full of mosh-pit fuel and deathcore excellence--or, as they dub themselves, "Spirit-filled beatdown." The brooding, distorted music lends itself to the crushing vocals that vocalist Jon Davenport puts down.
Spiritual Highlights
You can find plenty of spiritual depth and maturity in Jon's songwriting. He did an excellent job writing about spiritual struggles, mental health, and life's hardships while having a biblical foundation to depend on. The self-titled track opens with a focus on suicidal struggles. "Preacher III" condemns Christian leaders who are wolves in sheep's clothing, a common topic in Christian metal. "Memento Mori" is a despondent view of end times, recognizing that "Heaven is when there is no more death."
"Hell of My Design" tackles a daily struggle with faith, echoing the Apostle Paul's struggles with "I've lost count/how many times did I pray/only to wind up in this same place." The next song continues this with a feeling of guilt, "I Fear Your Silence" is about worrying about what a seemingly distant Father would say when we return to prayer.
"Suffering by my Own Hand" acknowledges that our struggles are often our own and prays, "Father, I'm sorry/Lord, I Repent." The lead single, "Let Me Feel Everything," is a call for help, for a sympathetic heart. And the closing track, "Last Breath of a Dying God," is a beautiful surrender with the closing lyric of "Take me when there's nothing left."
Best Song
Each song on Slow Suicide is on full-throttle-beatdown at its finest. The standout song, "Let Me Feel Everything," takes on an outstanding balance of songwriting, highlighting the mental and spiritual struggles while calling for help. Musically, the song is brutal, and the lyrics are raw. The vocals are satisfyingly heavy and are well-enunciated, especially in the song's chorus. If you want an idea of how heavy Cultist can get, listen to this song.
Cultist's Slow Suicide puts their excellence in beatdown metal on full display. Although Cultist may not introduce any groundbreaking elements to the genre, it certainly delivers a powerful experience to your ears. The music has some variety, though, such as an extra double kick, rhythm changes mid-song, and an incredibly haunting atmosphere.
Slow Suicide only falls short in sticking to its guns, which isn't even wrong. I'm excited to see where Facedown Records and Cultist will go with this impressive debut to launch forward.
Skeleton Psalms - Full of Musical Expertise | Posted April-26-2023 What You Need To Know
What can I tell you about Disciple that would do the Christian rock legends justice? The Tennessee-founded, southern, hard rock band has been releasing Christ-centered music since 1993 with two indie cassette-only records until they started working with the great producer Travis Wyrick. Currently, they are able to produce music in house with lead guitarist Josiah Prince's own skills and studio (The Ranch). They are partnered with Tooth and Nail Records for distribution. Skeleton Psalms is the band's thirteenth studio record releasing April 28, 2023.
What It Sounds Like
The albums opens with "The Executioner" which offer a great example of what to expect from Skeleton Psalms. The record offers some of the best production I've heard from them since the band started producing in-house/independently. The arrangement of the songs and music styles offers fresh, yet familiar, hard rock that Disciple excels at.
Additionally, the music and vocal style is reminiscent of older Disciple records, such as Horseshoes & Handgrenades and new music like Long Live The Rebels, even a song or two harkening This Might Sting A Little style. Overall, it is a great blend of aggressive music, soaring vocals, and catchy choruses that we've grown to love with Disciple.
Spiritual Highlights
There has been no shortage of spiritual depth and messages to Disciple's music over the years, and that continues to be the truth here. Each song has lyrics that directly reflect some biblical Scriptures (which you can find in our lyrics section for the record). Kevin Young's poignant and in-your-face songwriting continues to create vibrant imagery and foundational truths in every song.
Whether it's comforting messages from the perspective of God to His children or bold proclamations of faith in Christ, this record is full of the songwriting that Disciple utilizes to deliver the Gospel messages.
Best Song
One of the standout tracks to me is "Scapegoat," and I can't wait for you to listen to it. This song has the grit of an old Disciple song, almost as if pulled from This Might Sting A Little, and blends into their modern rock age. There are musical quirks and the vivacious, fast-paced vocals make it a more unique song on the record. Plus, Disciple often shines best when the striking, heavy songs have a fitting lyrical theme--and one that spits on the devil's reputation is definitely welcome.
There is always anticipation to listen to a new release from a band that has been around for a long time like Disciple. The small differences in their self-produced records versus studio records are easy to miss, but they add up. Don't miss this one; Skeleton Psalms is easily one of the best in their thirteen record-spanning discography.
There are songs like "Bad Words," "Scapegoat," and "Bow Down" that bring an old-school flair to their modern hard rock style, meanwhile songs like "Promise to Live" and "For the Life of Me" bring the tear-jerking ballads that they can craft well. My critique would be on the choir-like openings to the first two songs that feel out of place compared to the rest of the record. Any fan of hard rock, especially Christian fans looking for empowerment in their faith, should not miss this great rock album.
OMNI Pt. 1 - A Great Farewell in the Making | Posted April-03-2023 What You Need To Know
Project 86 is releasing their final music in the form of a crowd-funded, 2-part album titled OMNI. The first of the two full-length records is out now, OMNI, Pt.1. It is one of the heaviest and most conceptually driven albums in their history. The final chapter of Project 86 has begun.
What It Sounds Like
Andrew Schwab, the lead singer, explains in an interview with As The Story Grows that a nodule in his throat began growing around the Truthless Heroes record (2002). During the pandemic, he finally sought out a throat specialist and discovered no nodule. With the relief, he pursued new vocal styles. The result is incredible: the best and most natural sounding heavy vocals from Schwab.
Additionally, the musicianship is tight and as pounding as it's always been, but the signature post-hardcore influence is nearly gone, with metalcore taking over. The new style features chuggy guitars, new vocal styles, and double-bass at times. It's not relentless, though, as there are some transition tracks which are less songs and more of concept album supplements. Overall, it sounds apocalyptic, as the concept is meant to be.
Spiritual Highlights
Andrew Schwab has talked about his faith in the past, and it always finds a way into his music. On OMNI, the themes are of a dystopian future, in an old-school way, much like you'd find in classic sci-fi films. This includes 2 main perspectives, the "OMNI" corporation and the other from the people oppressed by it.
Because of this design, there is not many biblical lessons or references to draw from, especially in direct quotation or implication. However, I found myself often comparing the viewpoints of the oppressed as that of humanity under the dominant curse of sin and death.
Best Song
The new stylistic changes and metalcore influences make it more difficult to decide which songs are best, when they all sound so different than what we've grown to be familiar with from Project 86. There is the singular ballad, "Tartarus Kiss" that offers the melodic side we love from the band. Being conceptual, the band has a fantastic closing song, "Tears in Reign," that serves as a climatic ending and closes a unique listening experience from front to back. The lead single, "Metatropolis" is great on its own, however, too.
OMNI will be the most unique and metalcore-influenced record of Project 86's career. This double record will go down in heavy music scene history as one off the best final albums for a band. It is a difficult task to create something different yet familiar that will intrigue and impress fans, and Project 86 have nailed it. I thought there were a few too many transitional tracks, one or two would have been fitting. But in the scope of 2 records in OMNI, they will likely earn their place. Fans of hard rock or metal will not want to miss either parts of OMNI.
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