Che Arthur's latest release, "For That Which Now Lies Fallow," is a sonic journey that transcends generations, evoking the raw passion of post-hardcore while addressing the challenges of aging in the music industry. This full album, dropped on April 26, 2024, via Past/Futures Records and Redeye Worldwide, showcases Arthur's versatility as a musician and songwriter.
Hailing from Chicago, Illinois, Che Arthur channels influences from bands like Jawbreaker, Sugar, and Dinosaur Jr., weaving a tapestry of emotions and experiences throughout the album's ten tracks. With Adam Reach on drums and Arthur handling guitars, bass, keyboards, and vocals, "For That Which Now Lies Fallow" highlights Arthur's multifaceted musical prowess in a way that shines, but never shows-off; he knows what he can do well, and he offers it up in a way that allows us to connect as opposed to being awed into submission.
The album kicks off with "This Lost Champion," setting the tone with introspective lyrics and dynamic guitars, kicking the door to the club open and letting his presence be known through power chords. Tracks like "No Harbor" and "When the World Comes Down" delve into themes of identity, disillusionment, and resilience, resonating with listeners across generations.
Che Arthur's songwriting shines through poignant lyricism, as seen in excerpts like:
"The corners of these eyes hide blank designs
There was never space between these thin red lines"
These words, paired with Arthur's emotive vocals, create a compelling narrative that invites listeners to introspect and connect with the music on a deeper level.
The album's press release highlights Arthur's personal journey, including health issues, aging, and heartbreak. Despite these challenges, "For That Which Now Lies Fallow" emerges as a cathartic expression of resilience and artistic vision.
One of the standout tracks, "No Harbor," reflects on the struggle of aging musicians in a youth-centric industry:
"No words but they’re loud and true
There’s no harbor here for ghosts like you"
As an elder punk who often feels a little at out of place at all ages shows, this resonates and Arthur's ability to blend introspection with energetic musicality showcases a mature yet vibrant approach to post-hardcore, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
As Che Arthur continues to evolve as an artist, "For That Which Now Lies Fallow" serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of post-hardcore music and the timeless relevance of authentic storytelling through sound.
For those eager to experience this captivating musical journey, "For That Which Now Lies Fallow" is available for purchase on Bandcamp via the link below: