The Fire Itself - A Bright Flame for Phinehas Posted August 30, 2021 By RyanAdams_NRT, Staff Reviewer
What You Need To Know
The Fire Itself is Phinehas' fifth studio album, four years since the release of their previous record, Dark Flag. The metalcore band has signed to Solid State Records with the release of this new album.
What It Sounds Like
This is metalcore at its finest. The production and mixing hold together all their signature aspects of that thrashing sound. Phinehas boasts shredding guitar solos, plenty of riffs, intense vocals and lyricism, heavy breakdowns, and thundering drumming (from their new drummer Isaiah Perez). If you like metal, you'll love The Fire Itself.
Spiritual Highlights
Phinehas draws inspiration for this album straight from lead vocalist Sean McCulloch's life. He's a firm believer in Jesus, yet has faced difficult times that led to some questioning and some reaffirming. These songs are honest reflections of being refined through trials (Book of James), calling out for help, and affirming truths. There is no shortage of relatable lyrics nor spiritual truths.
Best Song
A record like this has no strike-outs. Every song is memorable and impactful. The title track is notable, and "The Fire Itself" presents the band at its best. With "The Fire Itself," we see some of the best that Phinehas can do. But as usual, Phinehas includes one "ballad" of sorts - "The Storm In Me." This is a deeply emotional and sombering song that you can't miss. Unlike previous records, there is no instrumental track found.
The Fire Itself was well worth the long wait for the release. Phinehas has created a metal album that will be remembered for years to come. The impact of The Fire Itself is and will be huge for both fans needing to hear a message of hope and artists looking for inspiration.
