About this album

Sound: "Explosive riffs intertwine with intricate melodies, creating a vibrant tapestry of progressive metal and emotive storytelling."

Where they were

Released in 2020, 'Palimpsest' is Protest the Hero's fifth studio album, following their critically acclaimed 'Pacific Myth' EP from 2017. The band had been on a hiatus before this release, marking a return to form with a renewed focus on lyrical depth and musical complexity.

Why it matters

'Palimpsest' was well-received by critics and fans alike, debuting at number 3 on the Canadian Albums Chart. Its exploration of themes such as immigration and personal struggle resonated widely, contributing to discussions about social issues in contemporary metal.

Essential tracks

  • "The Migrant Mother" — This opening track sets the thematic tone for the album, addressing migration and identity through powerful lyrics and dynamic instrumentation.
  • "The Canary" — Featuring intricate guitar work and soaring vocals, this track exemplifies the band's signature blend of technical proficiency and emotional weight.
  • "From the Sky" — 'From the Sky' showcases the band's progressive tendencies with its shifting time signatures and thematic explorations of loss and resilience.
  • "Rivet" — This closer encapsulates the album's diverse sound palette while delivering an impactful message about perseverance amidst chaos.

Release Date

June 18, 2020

Artist Origin

Canada

Tracklist

Disc 1

  1. 1 The Migrant Mother 3:50
  2. 2 The Canary 4:27
  3. 3 From the Sky 6:14
  4. 4 Harborside 1:01
  5. 5 All Hands 4:40
  6. 6 The Fireside 5:03

Disc 2

  1. 1 Soliloquy 4:30
  2. 2 Reverie 5:26
  3. 3 Little Snakes 4:56
  4. 4 Mountainside 1:11
  5. 5 Gardenias 4:57
  6. 6 Hillside 0:39
  7. 7 Rivet 5:35