EP Review: Becoming the Lion – Unearthly Creature (Self Released)

Wisconsin post-metal outfit Becoming the Lion will release their fourth album Unearthly Creature on December 4th 2020.  A much-anticipated follow-up to their 2018 album Ghosts of a Fallen Soldier, this new work showcases the group’s evolution from a one-man project to a collaborative, multi-faceted endeavour.

The promise of an expansive and thoughtful post-metal album is very much delivered on by Becoming the Lion on their new record. A 6-track slice of wonderful melodies layered over chuggy riffing and backed up by powerful percussion and ethereal but composed vocals. It makes A Fireside Tale for Those of Inquiry have immediate impact. Partially as if makes you think of sitting in front of a warming glow while darkness creeps in around.

Over the River, and Through the Woods brings some energy to proceedings though. The passion exudes from this band who continue to keep it feeling light & airy while having a much chunkier riff style. The vocals are on absolute fire here but the melody is easily the standout element of the track.

Another exemplary example follows in the short; The Cavern, the Beast, and His Slumber. Where the mellow and colourful sound has an elegance that effects the soul in a positive way. It’s a nice and relaxing, preparation for having to switch on for the much more complete and complex challenge of being able to appreciate Rise and Fall, A Legend is Born.

The apex of what Becoming the Lion are capable of on this album. Thrilling post with layers upon layers of riffs, a chunky guitar solo at the mid-point, deeply moving melodies and soaring vocals that reach throat-wrecking level of height. It’s a powerhouse of a track that captures everything so amazing about this band and how they effortlessly create such lavish sounds.

The track simply called – – is another super-short offering, a come down from what came before and what comes after. It’s just 2 minutes of pretty melody with a sharp ringing quality to it. It’s warm like the morning sun and creates an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity without ever feeling like it’s about to descend into darkness. It’s more of a intro to Silent Return anyway, where the melody dissipates slightly for a harder edge while staying eerily present and clear. Another wonderful effort that drips in thoughtful emotion.

Overall, Becoming the Lion have created one of the most beautiful sounding releases this year.

Becoming the Lion – Unearthly Creature Full Track Listing:

1. A Fireside Tale for Those of Inquiry
2. Over the River, and Through the Woods
3. The Cavern, the Beast, and His Slumber
4. Rise and Fall, A Legend is Born
5. —
6. Silent Return

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