In 2016, progressive metalcore act Prevailer formed, releasing a self-titled EP that showed definite promise. Years of working on their sound and solidifying their line-up followed, and now it seems they're ready to take on the world. Now part of the elite Rottweiler Records roster, Prevailer is bringing their sound to a new audience with their first new album in a decade, Convalescent.

It's easy to get hooked right from the opening moments of "Diseased Frames," with its crunchy bass and djenty rhythm, before vocalist Franklin Peer jumps in, accompanied by an onslaught of powerful guitar riffs. "Into the Furnace" follows suit, introducing some atmospheric guitars before ripping into the double bass and a sound that would undoubtedly open the pit at a live show. This song is also a great example of how well the band utilizes clean vocals, with a chorus comprised of soaring cleans that routinely get stuck in my head (I keep finding myself quietly singing "losing my sense of purpose / exiled and cast into the furnace" throughout the day).

After a short interlude in the title track, the back half of the album starts to display some of the band's more melodic side. "Entry Wound" dips into post hardcore territory, with Peer's screams paired up woth some slower tempos and less distortion (mildly reminiscent of bands like Hands). Afterward, though, it's back to business, hitting fast and hard until it all culminates in the closing track, "Inversion," which really encapsulates the best of everything the band does well. And once it ends, I find it's pretty easy to just give it another spin.

Boasting eight beefy tracks across approximately 28 minutes, Convalescent delivers a progressive metalcore sound that is a bit more accessible than most Rottweiler offerings these days. Fans of bands like Colossus, Invent Animate, or For Today will have a good time with this one. This could be the start of something really great. Be sure to keep your eyes on Prevailer!

- Review date: 8/23/26, written by Scott Fryberger of Jesusfreakhideout.com

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