Experimental, unique rock

The Detroit band Protomartyr is back after last year’s critically acclaimed album Relatives in Descent, with an EP that will surely delight fans and newcomers alike. Coming in at only four songs, Consolation is a short but eclectic album, showcasing the vast strengths of the group. The only single off the EP is also the third song on it, “Wheel of Fortune,” which features Kelley Deal of The Breeders. Deal is also featured on the final song “You Always Win,” and her talents help give the collection of songs a unique sound beyond their normal style. Each song on Consolation is unique and stands out on its own, which is what makes it such an impressive EP.

The first song on the EP is “Wait,” a low-key song with a very memorable guitar lick. It’s not the strongest song on the EP but it’s a good start to the collection of songs, as it sets the style of the band, while remaining unique. The next song is “Same Face In A Different Mirror,” a fun, powerful song that excels where “Wait” struggles. The conversational vocals work perfectly with the music, in particular, the guitar. It’s a perfect song for the summer, as it remains upbeat, while also having a relaxed feeling to it.

It seems that the EP improves with each song, making “Wheel of Fortune” an obvious choice for the only single off of Consolation, as it contains a variety of different elements that both clash and work together perfectly. It’s catchy, but not melodic. It’s a little bit creepy, but it’s also full of power and confidence. It has a late ’80s style to it, with the talking-like vocals, and it’s a great addition to Protomartyr’s catalog. The lyrics are confusing, but the strange images are what make them work: “A businessman’s handshake/ His waning ardor needs blood to metasize/ I decide who lives and who dies.”

“You Always Win,” much like “Wheel of Fortune,” is a dryer, creepier sounding song, but that’s what makes it arguably the strongest song on the album. The cacophony of music in the background, clashing against the low volume vocals makes for an artistic song that’s experimental, even for a band like Protomartyr. Deal’s cameo is a perfect addition to the strange song, as her vocals complement the deeper vocals of the band. If “Wheel of Fortune” and “You Always Win” are signs of the band’s future, then it’s certainly going to be a bright one for Protomartyr.

Consolation feels like so much more than a short EP thanks to the quality of the songs, and the talent on the album. Each song tells a story itself and shows that you don’t need a lot of songs to put out a quality piece of art. Protomartyr has an FYF makeup concert in LA in July with My Bloody Valentine, and will be touring Europe throughout August. Consolation is available to stream and for purchase now.