EP Review: Becoming The Lion - Turning Point
Reviewed by Matthew Williams
Becoming The Lion is the brainchild of multi-instrumentalist Ross Blomgren, who, some fourteen years after setting up the band experimenting in post-hardcore riffs, has returned to his solo roots to experiment with rock/alternative/post themes.
'Turning Point' is a five song EP, with Blomgren saying that it’s a “somewhat journey of identifying and coming to terms with the ones in your life who are not who you think they are” something that we can all identify with. It begins with a poignant message of people being an 'Intentional Liar', and talks about people who gain clout when they bring others down. It’s a moody, dynamic song with an ambient opening that bursts into life with a heavier distorted guitar sound.
This is followed by 'Great Escape' which has more of a progressive feel to it, with Blomgren’s vocal range being used to full effect. The hooks are catchy, and the melodies are a bit more technical, with Craig Boucher on studio drums, adding great timing and rhythm throughout. 'Foolish Chameleon' demonstrates the softer side of Blomgren, with an out pouring of emotion but his powerful performance gives the song more gravitas.
The final two songs begin with 'Stone’s Throw'” which has anthemic chord progressions wrapped around the exploration of self-reflection and recognising that each relationship is different. The song meanders along really well, with softer, gentler notes intertwined with a harder edge that encourage the listener to mend your soul. With title track 'Turning Point' wrapping things up nicely, it’s another dynamic song, full of intricate melodies, powerful rhythms that adds to the shifting and emotional nature of the song.
The EP is all about acknowledging the results of the decision to take a stand for oneself, even if the immediate aftermath brings difficulties and it’s a great effort by Ross Blomgren, and I’m intrigued to see what the future holds for Becoming The Lion.
