Protomartyr - Consolation

Protomartyr’s fourth album ‘Relatives In Descent’, released last year, was their best yet, a relentless barrage of intensity, intent on finding truth in an increasingly murky world. The search continues on new EP ‘Consolation’, which sees the band draft in Kelley Deal of The Breeders to guest on its final two tracks.

Opener ‘Wait’ is the band on top form; Joe Casey’s ever-distinctive growl is backed by guitars which switch with lightning-fast precision from swirling and heavy to hooky and sunny. ‘Same Face In A Different Mirror’, meanwhile, is a dark, winding trip that provides relative respite. “With this who could be against us?” the singer barks, and you’d be hard pressed to disagree.

The highlight, though, is ‘Wheel Of Fortune’, Joe’s vocals well contrasted with Kelley’s high tones as they bellow “I decide who lives and who dies,” making a biblical racket. It’s followed by ‘You Always Win’, a far less direct but still affecting duet. There’s still barely any light allowed in, but Protomartyr’s prowess at channeling darkness into something cathartic has never been stronger.