The Reckoning
Pillar has finally shaken off its outdated rap-rock stunts to reveal a newfound depth of sound and songwriting. Instead of internalizing a year of hardships in their private and public lives, the group stands matured. The resulting disc gloriously surpasses the depth and hype of the group’s last release, 2002’s Fireproof.
The Reckoning deftly blends lyrical exhortation with lead singer Rob Beckley’s freshly liberated grinding growl. Tough, stadium-size melodies and huge, crunching guitars accompany bold encouragements in tracks such as the soaring “When Tomorrow Comes” and the stomping, tough-love anthem title track.
The group relies on their progressive rock chops in “Resolution,” complete with odd time-signature and tempo changes, yet it’s still melodic. The guys show even more versatility on the vulnerable “Sometimes”—an unabashedly pop number.
Musical diversity and a positive lyrical message make this album a winner. But ultimately, the most encouraging aspect of The Reckoning is that Pillar proves hard rock doesn’t have to be stale.
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Review by: Anthony Barr-Jeffrey
Originally published November 01, 2006.
