Rhododendron - Protozoan Battle Hymns

Happy Family Records

Hailing from Portland, Oregon, Rhododendron are a Noise Rock/Metal collective packing an extensive punch. Extensive in the sense of extended material, tracks breach the 10 minute mark on occasion, and extensive in a forthright progression kind of way. 'Protozoan Battle Hymns' is their debut LP and is comprised of a mixture of maniacal elements - abrasive riffery, textures, sights and sounds - and interesting takes on progressive metal's formula - both stylistically and sonically.

'Protozoan Battle Hymns' is full of experiments that are jarring at first, but make sense as more time is spent with the album. Obtuse uses of instrumentation and tones find themselves ever-present as Rhododendron seek to unlift the veil of out of place mannerisms and push them to the forefront, with great execution and effect. It's the kind of music that approaches from a different angle, a different point of view. Often times taking a step back leads to a bigger picture, and that's exactly what the Rhododendron camp have done with PBH. A refreshing take on Tool-like musicianship is at hand - mathematical to a degree, but not overbearingly focused on time changes and the 'hey look at me' aspect that can sometimes be found intrinsically associated with the 'progressive' title. Elegant passages of ambiance and intricate guitarwork lace the tracklist, slowing the pace down to enhance the albums ebb and flow.

If you're looking for a challenge with a high chance of reward, music taste dependent of course, then this is for you. These guys will make some serious moves within the next few years. There's no doubt in my mind.

Favourite Track: Last of the Painted Hills