Ideological stances are polarizing. They come with a set of existing concepts and reference points that are often hard to overlook. I didn't want to talk about religion in this review. I didn't want to talk about religion as much as Project 86 doesn't want to limit themselves as a solely religious band, but it's difficult to ignore a prevailing Christian message. It's difficult to ignore for the same reason we pay attention to the satanic references of other musicians and it's difficult to ignore because it's a rarity in a hard rock band. What Project 86 are doing is commendable. They're putting aside the expectations surrounding both a faith and a genre to do what they want, and attempting to let the music stand for itself.
Unfortunately, it may be these same convictions that keep Project 86 from achieving the success that's awarded to many of their peers. Formulaically the pieces fit: the band has a sound flirting with the likes of Rise Against and Marilyn Manson, a strong emotional backing in their lyricism, and enough experience within the industry to know how things work. Picket Fence Cartel, the band's seventh LP in their thirteen year career, spans eleven tracks of somewhat familiar ground. You've heard the type before. It's slightly heavier than the sound in heavy rotation among your local alternative stations, which are often anthems for the teenage middle class. Songs like the discs intro "Destroyer" and the standout "The Black Brigade" are enough for fans of the genre to give the disc a once over, while the rest tunes serve as a pleasant soundtrack for the angry and confused.
Project 86 have an investment in their band beyond an idea of rock stardom or cheap tricks. Their conviction is easily heard through out Picket Fence Cartel. While the music is somewhat formulaic in its approach, the band's passion sets them a step above their contemporaries. Everyone should mean it this much.
