Protest the Hero Album: “Kezia”

I first heard the cd about a year ago when one of my friends was blasting it in his car and all I remember about it was the excessive noise but I did get the band name from him. A year later I listen to the cd again and I have a newfound respect for the guys. This CD is truly mindblowing. I can honestly say that I listen to the entire CD every single day and I am still not tired. Several factors contribute to this perseverence. First, the catchiness is undeniable and the sound is so fresh. Another thing to note is that none of the songs have choruses and at times it's a little overwhelming trying to keep up with 5 minutes of everchanging melodies and tempos. I can truly say that this band does not sound like any other band I have ever heard. Second, what struck me about the band was the absolutely superb musicianship. I was blown away by the level of virtuosity with which these 19 year olds play. Right from the get-go they kick the doors down with guns blazing and don't stop until the last minute. This separates them from so many of their contemporaries who sacrifice instrumental skill for catchy hooks. The guitars shred like no other, the bass pounds away quite intricately, the drums thunder with such ferocity you wonder how the kit stays intact and the singer possesses a remarkably beautiful voice ranging from melodic singing to almost death-metal grunts. This might be considered drastic thinking but I would pick this over Slayer and Slipknot anyday. It is well worth the 9 dollars and more!

My other cd's called me the other day. They miss there play time! This is without a doubt the best cd of the year. Flawless from start to finish . I've never heard anything like it before ... go get it!!

This, as far as my opinion goes, is the most talented and original band to surface in the last 5, maybe 10 years. Incredible album, mind-blowing live show. These guys don't miss; each member is a complete master of his craft. The album 'Kezia' works as sort of a situationist-concept album. Kezia is a girl to be executed and the album tells the story through 3 perspectives. Prision Guard; first 3 songs, Priest; second 3, Kezia; last 3, and the Finale. In general, I'd say the first half of the album is more pummeling and the second half more melodic, but the entire thing, every bleeding second, is amazing!

After hearing just one song online, I knew I had to order the album. Covering influences as diverse as thrash, emo, punk, prog rock, math rock, etc. Protest the hero blend them all to create a really unique and compelling sound.

The album missed out on a star because of production finish and the fact that they definately have a better album in them. I can't wait!

Everything to be said has been said, I hate to make comparisons, but, I also find them helpful sometimes, I would say this band is Between the Buried and Me as far as musicianship, meets Chiodos, meets pp. 99, if you are familar with these bands, even if you are not, it is still a shockingly good album,I hope the 5 star rating holds up because I really enjoy this new band, so far so good.