Protest the Hero - Pacific Myth (2016)^{Release ID: 1799}

Has any other band tried distributing a few singles via an online music subscription-like platform, each one complete with artwork, lyrics, liner notes, and instrumental versions, and then later released them altogether in an EP? No one else besides Protest the Hero! That's how unique that band is.

Those Canadian progressive metallers continue pleasing listeners with smart fun fast music. With their 2016 release Pacific Myth, the outcome isn't different but their production technique definitely is. Each of the 6 songs were originally released one by one via music subscription service Bandcamp with its own special features. Afterwards, they released all 6 songs in an via Razor & Tie Records in November.

Kicking off the EP is "Ragged Tooth" with starts off quickly in fast motion, before stopping the prog-metal action for a small verse. Then the action gets picked up again for its chorus as the band fights through their standards to make that song interesting. Next one "Tidal" is a solid example of what Protest the Hero does best. While sounding like much of their previous material, there are fresh elements to keep it new. The band jumps in with a punch in the listener's face. Soon it slows down a bit for a message to convey, "Why do we work until we’re unable? Why do we work until we die?" To make money and keep the company alive, duh!

Then we move on to "Cold Water", blasting through charging guitar leads. Turning through different time signatures, the guitars soon take a break for an awesome combo of drums, bass, and vocals. When the guitars return, the band continues navigating through more of the unusual time signatures. The heaviest song "Cataract" starts with an insane combo of drums, bass, and guitars. Walker sings with Iron Maiden-like powerful falsetto. There's also some special vocals by Michael Ciccia of Mandroid Echostar.

Starting with a piano intro, "Harbringer" gets wild with loud guitars, progressive bass, and Walker's voice going through screaming and growling more than in the rest of the EP. In fact, this song probably has the most unclean vocals since the earlier days of Kezia and Fortress. The grace is still there to enhance the urgency. Ending the EP is "Caravan" an 8 and a half minute epic odyssey and the longest song recorded by Protest the Hero. They really master the shredding in the first 5 minutes with occasional pausing. Then the tone changes with calm vocals over bass, guitar, and strings. Those strings help add a grand sense that ends the EP in a very epic tone. Unbelievable!

This 35-minute EP Pacific Myth is full of cool surprises and memorable moments, showing off incredible music from each and every band member. The big downside, of course, is this album being an EP shorter than the other albums. Will there be more awesome music the listeners really want? We'll find out when I review the next album....

Favorites: "Tidal", "Cataract", "Caravan"