Protestant have around since 2007, yet it feels like longer. Mind you this isn't a put down as much as it is a reflection upon their multitude of releases. In the last 6 years the band has managed to cobble together a discography that reaches into the double digits. Throughout said discography the band has managed to broaden their original crusty foundation. So with all that we get their most recent release Reclamation.
Each song builds on the basics that the band has always worked from: crusty vocals laid over metallic guitar and forceful percussive elements. Where this album differs is in the details. The band stretches further including both dissonant leads as well as melodic elements allowing the songs to grow further away from their starting points.
Within these 5 songs the band manages to use this both to their advantage and detriment. When it hits ("Home" and the title track) it resonates with the listener, allowing brief respite from the full frontal assault that the band generally deals in. When it doesn't ("Unbecoming") it tends to feel slightly forced, trying to create intrigue when it isn't necessary.
When it is all said and done these 5 tracks point towards the band's future, giving insight into their melodic leanings and interest in taking their sound further. While this creates a great prospect for their future it may create a mess as well. In the meantime this record will be looked at as a turning point.
