In Rotation: The Ableist - The Ableist

Chicago post-hardcore group The Ableist released their long marinating self-titled debut album last month. Fuzzy rhythm meets shouted vocals with pensive, ruminating lyrics. If you've seen this band live in the last couple years, you probably will recognize some of these songs. Particularly "Written in Red" which tends to be a highlight of the set. It epitomizes the band's sound complete with exuberant driving vocals and bass-heavy rhythm. Powerful lyrics are delivered in a triumphant cadence. "The arm of Justice raised and bare // Her sword upheld, gleams its glare // Mothers, fathers your stern cries // Have burned my soul in this reprise // Written in red our protest stands // Illuminate! Seize the lands! // Set it alight by roaring flame // Emancipate! Our earth reclaimed!"

Most songs on the album don't have such a big chorus. The lyrics are more concerned with storytelling in imagery, setting and character. The relentless drumbeat of time, class disparity and how we treat each other are topics a lot of us are thinking about these days. This album ultimately serves as a call to action - to reject the status quo and stand for justice. As the spirit of Paul Robeson says in "Early in May", "Do not be harnessed by your fear // A greater world lies ahead // Ignore what is currently”.

At times wading into experimental territory ("So Said the Birds of the Coming Storm"), at times pummelling full-speed ahead hardcore ("Lullaby"), at times mid-tempo giving way to a brutal finish ("Aquamarine"), The Ableist rewards close listening in sequence. Several guest appearances add depth to the roster. Listen to The Ableist below and head over to Bandcamp to read those lyrics.