From a solitary journey of musical exploration to the evolution into a full-fledged band, Becoming the Lion returns to its solo roots with the EP Turning Point. Turning Point marks a seismic shift in Ross Blomgren‘s sonic landscape, while still embracing heavy rhythmic melodies he sheds the constraints of post-hardcore and metal labels.
Ross says this about Turning Point,
“This EP is somewhat of a journey of identifying and coming to terms with the ones in your life who are not who you think they are. This is not meant to be a somber journey however, but one that ultimately redefines your bonds on your terms.”
Turning Point begins with the serene and ambient opening of “Intentional Liar”. The thundering riffs form an undercurrent for the song that builds wonderful momentum that crescendos into a heavier sound of distorted guitars and heavy drums. There’s an echo of Bush’s Gavin Rossdale within Ross’ vocals. They’re tinged with a soft raspiness that reverberates with intense emotions.
The intricately rhythmic “Great Escape” not only captures my ear, but my heart. The track marries non-standard time signatures and technical melodies with beautiful rumbling basslines and drums. It’s a song made for driving down the highway into the setting sun.
On the song, Ross said
“’Great Escape’ is the moment you recognize your addiction to either a substance, person/relationship or state of mind, and make an oath to yourself not to fall back into the trap of old habits. Identifying old tendencies when they come around is the hardest part to stay the course but it is worth the battle in the end.”
The guitar and bass riffs steal the spotlight away from Ross’ vocals in “Foolish Chameleon”. A heavy, almost ballad-esque track, the song is thick with riffs and drumming without being brutal.
Like previous songs, “Stone’s Throw” escalates its heaviness. Opening with an acoustic guitar and a hooky bassline it lyrically explores vulnerability in human connection.
A powerful ode to taking a stand no for oneself no matter the outcome, the title track, “Turning Point”, is the shining star of the EP. Becoming the Lion saved the best for last with good reason. There’s a confident strength within Ross’ vocals that magnificently lifts the song. The bass is the heartbeat of the song but does not outshine the intricate guitars or commanding drumming.
With each track, Becoming the Lion crafts a symphony of self-discovery, urging one to reflect and embrace change and Turning Point invites one to discover the strength in redefining their own narrative. It’s a soulful expedition into recognizing and recalibrating the relationships that shape our lives.
Join the roar of empowerment and evolution, because sometimes, the boldest changes start with a single, resounding note.
MUST LISTEN TRACKS: all 5 songs
Read our interview with Becoming the Lion
