Protest the Hero : Scurrilous

by Cyndi Jo
Staff Writer

Who is Protest The Hero? Well, for those unfamiliar with their sound that resembles–The Human Abstract, Converge and a clear influence in Dream Theater–this Canadian quintet that formed in ’99 came on to the scene in ’05 with the release of Kezia. Their career has grown quite rapidly with a dedicated fan base and an overall positive critical acceptance — clearly proven when PTH went on to defeat the sophomore slump ranks with ‘08s Fortress.

Now, just a little over three years since that last release, fans can indulge once again with Scurrilous. It is a spectacular compilation of the best progressive metal PTH could possibly deliver except that this third album is too much reminiscent of the past effort, Fortress.

Retrospectively, opener “C’est La Vie” is by far the best song of the album. With hectic guitars brought on by guitarists Tim Millar and Luke Hoskin,roaring vocals by Rody Walker,a listener is a great introduction to the PTH sound. If suicide had a theme song this dark ultra magnetic song would definitely be it.The drum technique is showed off in the second track, “Hair-Trigger.” Moe Carlson’s drum ability is what makes the song as good a it is–his rolling drums make a good rhythmic foundation which is exemplified in the catchy chorus and through Arif Mirabdolbaghi’s bass. The surprise vocals by Jadea Kelly, who was also featured in the first album just adds on to the amazing duet.

So, the album starts off strong until the one song that just leaves a blank expression. “Tandem” is an attempt of an experiment, to say the least. As it goes from one key to another, the strange time signatures that stops suddenly without a sense of arrangement, it’s definitely a 5 minute piece that could’ve been left out. The frequent runaway guitar solos in “Moonlight” make it the slowest song of the album but it’s not the key of excel. “Sex Tape” is the song that stands out– the sharp magnetic vocals and Danny Elfman inspired bridge fades out to a pleasing ending.

Scurrilous is frantic, energized, and frenetic, which keeps the overall theme justified but it does sound like past efforts. It won’t bring new fans, it’s nothing different or unique but it’s worth a listen for fans of Protest The Hero.

Label: Vagrant records

Band: Moe Carlson
Luke Hoskin
Tim Millar
Arif Mirabdolbaghi
Rody Walker

Track Listing:
1. C’est La Vie
2. Hair-Trigger
3. Tandem
4. Moonlight
5. Tapestry
6. Dunsel
7. The Reign of Unending Terror
8. Termites
9. Tongue-Splitter
10. Sex Tapes

Website: www.protestthehero.com

Hardrock Haven Rating: 8/10