The Mourning – Hush
Release Date: 24th June 2024
Label: Self Released
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Genre: Progressive Metal, Prog.
FFO: Dream Theater, Evergrey, Opeth, Haken.
Review By: Metal Miguel
The Mourning, a US-based prog metal band, is gearing up to release their debut full-length album “Hush” on June 24, 2024. The band, which began as a recording project between vocalist and composer Johnny Ray and drummer Jason Berlin in Tampa, Florida, has evolved into a formidable ensemble. With the addition of Alex Nasla, Francesco Pinter, Eliana Blanchard, and Phillip Colacecchi. The Mourning promises a journey that marries the technical prowess of progressive metal with raw emotional depth, but is there enough to separate them from the rest?
The Mourning’s journey began with the experimental EP “Theosis” in 2018, where they explored their musical identity. Now, with “Hush,” the band has honed their sound, placing a heavier emphasis on guitars and intricate harmonies. Influenced by prog giants like Opeth, Steven Wilson, and Haken, the album integrates grooving riffs, slap guitar, classical interludes, and blistering solos to create a rich, textured soundscape. The dual vocals of Johnny Ray and Eliana Blanchard bring an added dimension, but nothing genre defining. Having two vocalists in the tool kit is a great way to vary the story of a song, but I find the tone to be quite flat and jarring against some excellent music. It varies from song to song, but I’m not overly a fan of the LaBrie-esque male vocals.
“Hush” is described as an introspective journey, inviting listeners to reflect on their inner selves through the lens of The Mourning’s virtuous soundscape. The album seeks to combine the precision of progressive metal with an emotional core, aiming to inspire and move its audience. However, the themes explored in the album may resonate more deeply with a niche audience attuned to the complexities and nuances of prog metal.
Leading the album is the first single and video, “Chaos Machine.” This track dives into the concept of chaos as a reflection of an individual’s inner turmoil. It suggests that a nihilistic outlook can manifest as outward disorder, a theme that is both thought-provoking and unsettling. The song’s intricate guitar work and dynamic vocal interplay showcase The Mourning’s ability to blend complexity with accessibility.
While “Hush” marks an ambitious and technically proficient debut for The Mourning, the album’s heavy reliance on introspective themes might limit its appeal, that being said, the band’s dedication to their craft and their willingness to tackle profound topics through their music is commendable and “Hush” may be perfect for listeners who appreciate the deep dive into both musical and emotional complexity.
The Mourning’s potential for growth is evident, and “Hush” lays a solid foundation for their future endeavours. If the band continue to evolve their ability to balance technical prowess with broader thematic appeal, The Mourning will most definitely make even more of an impact on the prog metal scene. For now, “Hush” stands as a testament to the band’s journey and their unyielding passion for music.
(3 / 5)
