Protogonos is a French metalcore band that draws its inspiration from the historical branch of the genre. The band is built around two guitars, a bass, a drummer and a singer. After a first record ("From Chaos To Ashes") well received, "Silent Oppressor" is the occasion for the band to continue its evolution with a even more ambitious work. By its content and its themes, this record is a cry of alarm launched in the face of the world, a work at the edge of metalcore, melodic death and modern metal with progressive touches.
The record oscillates between power and melodies and expose its vision of brutality. Thus 'Watch Them Burn' marries thrash sounds with a powerful groove where keyboards soothe the atmosphere and support the melodies. A break crushes the listeners under a mountain of saturated riffs. In short, a track that sums up the effectiveness of the band. 'Scars', rhythmic and energetic, carries an infectious groove. The slowdowns dress it with multiple variations and the clear voice is very expressive. The introduction of 'Embrace Your Truth' is based on a sharp riff and a voice worthy of melodic death from the cold (Insomnium, In Flames, Dark Tranquillity).
The melody is not absent from the record, since it is the backbone of the compositions from the introduction of 'Overdrained'. The guitar solo may be classic but it is nevertheless incisive. The beauty of the record also jumps to the ears on 'As One' and its crystalline piano or on 'Empty Shell', a sensory trip to the skin... a very beautiful title!
"Silent Oppressor" is a good metalcore record punctuated with industrial sounds, fine melodies and intimist moments. A melodic, fierce and demanding album where some progressive touches refine the identity of the band. A sincere combo to discover without further delay.