Album Review: Saint Asonia – Introvert

Music for overcoming struggles

Based out of Toronto, Canada, Saint Asonia first formed in 2015 and has seen early success. Saint Asonia released their newest album, Introvert as their second major release under Spinefarm Records. The previous major release by the group was Flawed Design which was released in 2019. 

As of the release of Introvert, Saint Asonia currently consists of a four-member lineup. Adam Gontier is at lead vocals, Mike Mushok is at lead guitar, Cale Gontier is at back vocals and guitar and Cody Watkins is at the drums and percussion. The four members have crafted something incredible with diverse themes and music throughout Introvert.

“Above It All” kicks off Introvert epically and spectacularly. The music is electric and sets the song’s tone of overcoming something. Overcoming feelings of sadness and weakness are great and “Above It All” captures that emotion beautifully.

While “Above It All” feels like rising above something, “Better Late Than Never” feels as if the group just barely made it above a problem. This feeling is captured in the lyrics that are not as triumphant as “Above It All” but instead talk about previous failures and how the singer has just barely risen above something. The music is once again exceptional and starts off slow before speeding up.

“So What” is a stark contrast from other songs. Instead of overcoming, this song is about acceptance of grief and moving on from it instead of finding a way past it. This feels relatable for many introverts who have social anxiety and trauma and come to accept things rather than fight them.

“Blinding Lights” positively closes the album. The music is once again stellar, but the theme of finding someone else to be with is what separates “Blinding Lights” from others. Instead of being alone, the singer can finally be with someone.

In just seven songs, Saint Asonia’s Introvert is a stellar release. The music is epic and fits well with the theme and tone of every song. Instead of only speaking about negativity, Saint Asonia finds ways to discuss personal problems and ways to overcome them in their lyrics.