Mere months after his first official solo album, Matthew Konradt is already pumping out more music with his one-man band, Relentless Pursuit. "Wildfire" is his latest endeavor, which once again sees the project moving forward in sound, production, and songwriting skills. Konradt generally seems to enjoy keeping his songs lyrically brief, which is still the case here, though these are some of his best lyrics yet. Dealing with the aftermath of taking his eyes off of the Lord, he sings, I listened but couldn't hear Your voice through the overwhelming noise / like a spark igniting flame, the confusion took its toll more than I could know / I know You are the catalyst to bring fate that will unfold / I should have put more faith in You / You know me more than I know myself." Stylistically, the song shies away from much of the metalcore nature of Through Confusion, though it's not entirely absent, as the main guitar riff is thick and heavy, and the drums aren't afraid of a little bit of double bass. But Konradt also utilizes the keyboard and some synth that lightens the mood. He also refrains from screaming at any point, which I think is the main detractor for the song. Konradt's clean vocals aren't nearly as strong as his screaming, and I think Relentless Pursuit is at its best when it's at its heaviest. However, "Wildfire" is the first single from an upcoming album (tentatively titled Upward We March), so it remains to be seen (or heard) how heavy or light the full product will be. Personally, I'm anticipating more of the former.

- Review date: 3/21/23, written by Scott Fryberger of Jesusfreakhideout.com