Originally intended as an EP, Songs to Burn Your Bridges By is the fourth full-length album from Project 86, who yet again prove themselves to be one of, if not the greatest band in the harder realms of music today, Christian or otherwise. Having apparently cut ties with any and all record labels, the guys of Project took it upon themselves to oversee the production of this disc, which was recorded and mixed in a total of two weeks' time.
Stylistically, Songs finds itself somewhere between the almost depressingly beautiful melodic sound of its direct predecessor Truthless Heroes and the brilliant sonic onslaught that was Drawing Black Lines. In this middle ground is a stunning combination of well-played riffs and melodies, rather pleasant harmonies, and a musical explosion that starts from second one, and hardly ever lets up. At the risk of sounding cliché, it really is the best of both worlds, proving once again that just when you think they couldn't possibly get any better, Project 86 is ready and able to prove you happily wrong. This band is simply one seething mass of musical talent.
Vocalist/Lyricist Andrew Schwab has time and again (through the band and his two books) shown himself to be an excellent writer, and the songs of Songs simply serve to drive the point home. Always insightful and thought-provoking, simply reading through the lyrics is at times just as enjoyable as listening to the songs. "Safe Haven" expertly describes the feelings of painful contentment that come with knowing truth while surrounded by a world of those who are blind to it while "A Text Message to the So-Called Emperor" and "Solace" wait patiently for a time of retribution against an unnamed oppressor. I would be remiss if I failed to comment also on Mr. Schwab's equally expert vocal ability, which shines through as strongly as ever.
It is also very nice to see that "The Spy Hunter" has finally found a home as the disc's opening track, after having been floating around in various forms for a while now. That was the first of a string of pleasant surprises that lasted straight through all 40 minutes. There is nearly no end to the positive aspects of this work. All previous fans are in for quite a treat, and anyone else willing to give it a listen will not be disappointed.
5 tocks
Other coverage for this album
Decapolis August 2004Reviewed by Justin BrinkerFor those of you that have followed Project 86 since the release of Drawing Black Lines, you are well aware of the ups and downs that have followed the band. Some of their fan base felt alienated or disappointed with the release of Truthless Heroes. The band had expanded their sound and went in a more melodic direction, losing some of the brutality and edge that surrounded Drawing Black Lines. I…The Phantom Tollbooth 2004Reviewed by Sarah VernoOver time, some bands tend to trap themselves in dry ruts made of their own boring and lethargic music. But while these bands slowly sink to their graves, Project 86 is climbing mountains with its new, vivacious hard rock record, Songs to Burn Your Bridges By. With the help of Tooth and Nail Records, Project 86 has once again included all the ingredients needed to generate a remarkable album:…Similar sounding releases
2002P.O.D.Satellite
2002Jacks of All TradesSuperior
2002Demon HunterDemon Hunter
2005Stars Are Falling / SkylinesBlood & Ink Split Series Vol. 1
2005The Hurt ProcessA Heartbeat Behind
2003Lucerin BlueTales of the Knife
