If the array of skulls on the cover of HolyName's latest single "My Way" didn't already tip you off, this worship band won't be singing "kumbaya" anytime soon. Yet, in examining the lyrics and hearing a tender voice juxtaposed to the de-tuned guitars, you quickly find that something bigger is going on. Indeed, if you've read my previous review of the other three released singles, you'll know I have high hopes for the return of this hardcore worship, or what the band calls "holy drone violent worship."

"My Way" opens to a syncopated "djent" breakdown and a chilling guitar lead, but the collision is surprisingly tepid when the smooth vocals of Tommy Green hit. This is what distances HolyName from the rest of the pack; understandable, singable melodies, joined to personal lyrics akin to what you might find in an intimate prayer and worship night. The chorus is catchy, the harmonies swirling, and the breakdowns keep things heavy, though may be too simple for some.

The theme of the song is part testimony, part surrender. The first half talks about how Tommy found God "through the words on the page…through the tears and the rage…" before shifting to a future confidence that through Christ he has "found my way" even "if I have to go alone/I will go my way." Again, Green's lyrical formulation isn't the cookie-cutter lines you find in mega-church worship-bands today. Instead, he takes an uncut personal approach, seemingly putting prayers verbatim on the page, and that kind of "heart-on-sleeve" honesty wholly strengthens the impact for me.

Overall, "My Way" is the best example to date of what HolyName brings to the table. It's coherent, with returning motifs building off of what was established earlier in the track, something lacking in the previously released singles. As more singles arise, I'm seeing the pieces fall into place, and my anticipation for the full-length continues to grow.

- Review date: 8/14/21, written by Joel Zaloum of Jesusfreakhideout.com