Review: Protest the Hero - Fortress

Artist: Protest the Hero
Album: Fortress
Label: Vagrant Records
Released: 1/29/2008



BSTscore: 90

Fortress is the 2^nd full length on Vagrant for Canada’s Protest the Hero. While the band’s first release, Kezia, was more of a concept album, this album is a little more open to interpretation.

Hands down, this is one of the most talented bands I’ve heard in a long time. The band’s ability with odd time signatures and tempos is matched by few. Each member is very skilled and the songs showcase this nicely. Their ability to play metal one minute and something completely different the next is a testament to their musical ability.

Bassist/lyricist Arif Mirabdolbaghi is one of the more unique lyricists to say the least. The band is self-professed readers and it shows heavily in their lyrics. Topics are a bit strange at times, with a focus on medieval folklore on Fortress. I’m impressed by the complexity, but I know that other listeners may find the lyrics hard to digest.

Lead vocalist Rody Walker has a diverse range and clear delivery that is complimented nicely by the backing vocals of guitarist Tim Millar, Luke Hoskin, and bassist Mirabdolbaghi. At times all four use gang vocals to give the songs a largely than life feel, while at others, their expanded range contrast clean vocals with heavy screaming.

At times the songs can seem erratic, with blistering solos or heavy breakdowns, but overall, they fit together nicely. Normally I prefer melody more than chaotic nature of some of the songs, but Protest the Hero pulls it off well. While it may be hard to digest for some, I think that the intricacy of the songs will win over most listeners.

This band is very refreshing for the metal/hardcore scene. While Fortress doesn’t stray too far from where Kezia left off, this is a very unique and diverse album. There are no cookie-cutter song structures or catchy sing-alongs on this album. This band stands way out from the crowd.

The only negative to the band’s sound is that it’s hard to listen to over and over again. This is definitely in my rotation, but not at the top. The best part is that I find something new with every listen. The music is very deep and complex.

I’ve seen these guys live a couple times now and I’ve seen that you either love this band or hate them. I’m guessing that with Vagrant behind them and playing this year’s Warped Tour, they should win over a lot more people. Their talent is undeniable.

Musicianship: 90
Vocals: 85
Creativity: 95
Impact: 90

Favorite Song: "Spoils"

Listen to Protest the Hero