Review of the album “Falling Together” by Advent Horizon
In today’s Prog music landscape of 2026, it’s easy to overlook significant album releases. The invitation to review Advent Horizon’s latest album ‘Falling Together’ by The Prog Report left me with the realization that I had not yet given it a listen. Gratefully, I seized the opportunity to rectify this by immersing myself in a dedicated week of listening. The journey through this album was a revelatory experience that showcased the band’s superior musical prowess and depth.
Comprising Rylee McDonald (lead guitar, lead vocals, primary composer), Mike Lofgreen (drums, co-composer), Grant Matheson (guitar, vocals, keys), Cason Wood (bass, keys), and Kristen Mcdonald on additional vocals, Advent Horizon’s previous studio release ‘A Cell to Call Home’ garnered significant acclaim, setting high expectations for ‘Falling Together’. The new album, however, surpasses its predecessor, delving into the theme of challenging ingrained childhood beliefs and questioning their authenticity. Despite the profound philosophical underpinnings, the album’s exploration of this complex theme is carried out with humility, authenticity, and personal resonance.
Confessing my aversion to growling ‘cookie monster’ vocals, I was pleasantly surprised by their judicious use in ‘Falling Together’. The album masterfully balances aggression with melody, incorporating male and female vocals to create a harmonious blend. Rylee McDonald’s exceptional guitar work, vocals, and compositions shine, supported by the band’s collective musical prowess. Each track on the album, conceptualized during the recording of their previous album and meticulously refined over twelve months in the Utah mountains, reflects the band’s evolution towards a tighter, heavier sound while staying true to their distinctive style.
Starting with the nearly twenty-minute epic ‘In a Lone and Dreary World’, the album makes a bold opening statement, seamlessly navigating through diverse musical elements ranging from Porcupine Tree-esque introspection to powerful metal riffs. The track’s dynamic fluctuations, intricate time signatures, and captivating vocal interplay showcase Advent Horizon’s musical maturity. ‘Faiths Window’ delves into the internal struggle of returning to organized religion, blending melancholic balladry with soaring Prog-metal dynamics. Despite occasional anguished vocals akin to growling, Kristen McDonald’s melodic counterpoints elevate the track to a crescendo, typifying the album’s delicate balance between intensity and harmony.
At its core, ‘Falling Together’ presents a modern sound infused with emotional depth and lyrical complexity reminiscent of classic Prog influences. Throughout the album, the band’s meticulous songwriting and instrumental performances underscore their commitment to pushing their musical boundaries and solidifying their place in the Prog music landscape. Advent Horizon’s latest release serves as a testament to their artistic evolution, offering listeners a captivating sonic journey through introspection, exploration, and musical innovation.