House of Protection’s newest EP stands as a compelling showcase of their remarkable ability to navigate extremes — seamlessly weaving dreamy introspection with all-out sonic assault. From the very first note of the opener, 1.524å§l€€°, listeners are wrapped in a gentle, almost otherworldly atmosphere. Soft, breathy vocals drift over delicate piano motifs and shimmering synth layers, setting a mood that feels both intimate and ethereal. It’s a serene, hypnotic entry point, a calm before the inevitable storm.

That tranquility is then dramatically upended by Afterlife, a track that thrusts the listener into a maelstrom of heavy synth textures and thunderous riffs. The bass pounds with a relentless force, and the drums hit like a freight train barreling down the tracks. Yet, even in this chaotic tempest, the vocals remain surprisingly tender and soft-spoken, threading an emotional nuance through the sheer power. This juxtaposition of brute sonic force and vulnerable lyricism is a defining trait of House of Protection’s sound — raw yet refined, aggressive yet intimate.

Given that members hail from bands like Fever 333 and The Chariot, it’s no shock that the EP roars with an unrestrained energy and fearless attitude. But this isn’t just heaviness for heaviness’ sake. On tracks like Godspeed, the band’s keen command of dynamics shines. Here, deep, gritty industrial synth tones intertwine with lighter, airy synth flourishes, allowing the crisp, controlled vocals to cut through the dense mix. The result is a textured soundscape that feels simultaneously menacing and groovy — a perfect balance that makes the heavier moments hit with even greater impact, while the quieter passages breathe with spacious clarity.

Moments of introspection punctuate the EP, particularly in songs like I Need More Than This. Distorted, emotive vocals pair with understated synth lines, evoking echoes of early Bring Me The Horizon’s softer material—but with House of Protection’s own experimental edge. Unique sound choices, like a xylophone that feels hauntingly organic—almost as if crafted from bones—add layers of intrigue and keep the listener engaged in the unfolding sonic narrative.

Then there’s Fire, which acts as the EP’s explosive centerpiece. This track ignites everything that came before it: hard-hitting synths, crushing, chunky guitar riffs, and drums that manage to be both colossal and precise. It’s a chaotic, groove-laden rush that culminates in a powerful finale, leaving a lasting impression of intensity and sonic might.

The EP’s pacing is thoughtfully crafted, with tracks like Phasing Out offering a softer, fast-paced respite reminiscent of early Bring Me The Horizon’s emotive alt-rock. In contrast, Slide Away leans into a straightforward rock framework, complete with big, memorable riffs, driving drum fills, and catchy choruses that pay homage to the band’s roots while still feeling fresh and vital.

Ultimately, this EP is a testament to House of Protection’s mastery of balance: heaviness with delicacy, experimentation with accessibility, and chaos with structure. It flows like a narrative, each track a distinct chapter, with every sonic choice enriching the overall story. From its whimsical beginnings to its ferocious climaxes, the record is an intense, wild, and unforgettable journey — exactly what you’d expect from musicians with the pedigree of Fever 333 and The Chariot.

Rating: 9/10