Recovery of any kind – both physically and mentally – is a massive process that should be seen for the courageous and brave act that it is. Whether from addiction or injury, the road to that recovery has to start with the person who has to undergo said recovery. And that’s no small feat. More importantly, recovery looks different for every single person, even with the same affliction. Most important of all, however, is that recovery isn’t always the destination, but rather the journey to something at least better.
One particular perspective on this topic is the aptly named Recovery, the latest album from To Kill Achilles (via Arising Empire). It’s impossible not to relate to at least one of the many themes tackled in these eleven songs, which not only pull at the heartstrings; they rip those strings off and stomp them into the ground.
In fact, this record is a bonafide double-whammy. The lyrical themes are as emotionally charged as ever. However, it’s the post-hardcore rhythm section behind it, which perfectly encapsulates Mark Tindal’s effervescent, desperate vocals. That alone is enough to elevate this body of work to a greater level entirely. In fact, the empathy felt within after listening through repeated times is undeniably palpable.
The instruments are the perfect background music for such an undertaking as this: guitars harmonizing with the vocal patterns and drums providing a literal punch that amplifies the messages. There are no flashy parts to be had. Recovery is cut and dry, as it should be, and maintains a gritty presence even during more somber, slower moments.
Taking up arms in a self-aware struggle with alcohol while constantly falling into a pattern of regret and doubt, regret and doubt. Fighting a war against pills and the subsequent withdrawals of increasing magnitude. Living with an abusive lover and having to laugh off the bruises if anyone asks (while also feeling unable to call the police lest the lover get back at you one way or another). The sudden loss of a brother taken far too soon. Having the audacity in the modern world to love who you love and the fallout dealt from parents or guardians.
Again, it’s impossible not to feel something towards at least one of those elements. Perhaps the most powerful element of Recovery is its imperfect full-circle felt once the record concludes.
The album opens with ‘…and I’m An Addict’ and closes with the title track, However, the latter is not presented as a sugar-coated, sunshine-and-rainbows storybook ending. Yes, there’s much to be proud of when dealing with depression and getting to a point where one can recognize the struggle since overcome. Though, those feelings never seem to go away, even if they diminish in strength and frequency.
“And if my life’s just an oil painting / I’ll learn to love all the scratches on my canvas.”
Recovery isn’t perfect, and success cannot be defined as such. Recovery is the understanding of the faults and imperfections coupled with the strength and ability to confront them on a daily basis.
It’s making the absolute most of the cards you’ve been dealt.
Buy the album here:
https://arisingempire.com/recovery
9 / 10
MATT COOK