Almost three years after the release of The Hell We Create, Fit For A King returns with their latest full-length album, Lonely God, set to be released in August 1st this year. The Texas metalcore giants have consistently delivered a potent blend of aggression and melody, and this new offering, recorded in Los Angeles with producer Daniel Braunstein, continues that trajectory while also pushing into new, exciting territories. The time between albums has clearly been one of reflection and refinement for the band, resulting in what may be their most cohesive and emotionally resonant work to date.
The lead single and title track, “Lonely God”, immediately sets a powerful tone for the album. Vocalist Ryan Kirby has stated that the song, and indeed the album as a whole, critiques the hollow pursuit of power at the expense of genuine human connection. This theme of trading love and relationships for a solitary throne of influence is a poignant and timely one, and it’s a concept the band explores with both lyrical depth and musical ferocity. It’s a compelling introduction to the record’s central narrative.
From a production standpoint, the album is immense. Daniel Braunstein, known for his work with SPIRITBOX, has helped Fit For A King craft a soundscape that is both polished and punishing. The guitars are crisp and incisive, the drums are thunderous, and the mix allows every element to breathe, even in the most chaotic moments. The collaboration seems to have been a fruitful one, as the band sounds both refreshed and more confident than ever in their sonic identity.
Lyrically, Lonely God finds Ryan Kirby in top form, exploring themes of self-destruction, ego, and the isolating nature of modern ambition. The band has always been transparent and authentic in their songwriting, and this album is no exception. Tracks like “No Tomorrow” and “Technium” continue this exploration, with the latter featuring a guest spot from Landon Tewers of The Plot In You. These collaborations add new textures to the album and showcase the band’s willingness to experiment with their sound.
One of the most notable aspects of Lonely God is the sense of shared creative ownership. As Ryan Kirby has mentioned, all five members of Fit For A King have left their fingerprints on this album. This collaborative spirit is palpable, leading to a dynamic and varied listening experience. The band strikes a delicate balance between their signature heavy sound and more melodic, atmospheric moments, creating a record that is both brutal and beautiful.
The album is not without its moments of vulnerability. Tracks like “Between Us” and “Shelter” offer a respite from the onslaught, with clean vocals and a more restrained musical approach. These songs provide a crucial emotional counterpoint to the album’s heavier moments, showcasing the band’s versatility and their ability to craft a compelling emotional arc across the entire record.
Another standout track, “Monolith”, features a guest appearance from Lochie Keogh of Alpha Wolf, adding another layer of intensity to the album. The interplay between Ryan Kirby’s vocals and Lochie Keogh’s is a highlight, and the track is a perfect example of the band’s ability to seamlessly integrate guest artists into their sound.
“Witness The End” is another powerhouse track, featuring Chris Motionless of Motionless In White. This collaboration is a treat for fans of both bands, and the song is a fittingly epic and aggressive addition to the album. The track is a relentless assault on the senses, and it’s a testament to the band’s ability to maintain a high level of intensity throughout the record.
The overall feeling of Lonely God is one of a band that is completely comfortable in their own skin. Fit For A King has always been a force to be reckoned with in the metalcore scene, but this album feels like a definitive statement. They have honed their craft to a razor’s edge, and the result is a record that is both immediate and deeply rewarding.
In a genre that is often criticized for its homogeneity, Fit For A King continues to stand out from the pack. They have a unique voice, both lyrically and musically, and they are not afraid to take risks. Lonely God is a bold and ambitious album that is sure to please longtime fans while also winning over new ones.
In conclusion, Lonely God is a triumph for Fit For A King. It is a powerful and emotionally resonant album that showcases a band at the peak of their creative powers. From the thundering riffs to the soaring choruses, every moment of this record is crafted with care and precision. This is a record that will stay with you long after the final notes have faded.
My personal favorite tracks on the album are “Lonely God,” “Technium,” and “Witness The End.” I was particularly impressed by the seamless integration of the guest vocalists, and I think the collaborations with Landon Tewers, Lochie Keogh, and Chris Motionless are some of the strongest moments on the record. I also appreciate the album’s thematic depth and the way the band explores the dark side of ambition and power.
Rating: 9/10
Lonely God drops TOMORROW: August 1 via Solid State Records.
Tracklist:
Begin The Sacrifice 3:59
The Temple 3:46
Extinction 2:12
No Tomorrow 4:12
Shelter 3:26
Monolith 2:48
Lonely God 3:18
Between Us 3:41
Sentient 3:40
Blue Venom 1:53
Technium 3:05
Witness The End 4:08
Band lineup:
Ryan Kirby – Lead vocals
Bobby Lynge – Guitar & Backing vocals
Daniel Gailey – Guitar & Backing vocals
Ryan ‘Tuck’ O’Leary – Bass & Clean vocals
Trey Celaya – Drums
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