“Not by Myself” is a declaration of sonic war from Montreal's Hail to the North, forged in the fire of lockdowns and restrictions. Released to the world on April 11th, 2024, it proves music can be a viable medium to voice one's self in protest. Recorded at Avbury Studios under the aegis of producer/drummer Matt Noztez, "Not by Myself" is a very energetic track replete with musical sophistication that tempers the energy somewhat unexpectedly.
The band, consisting of Jordan, Roy, and pianist Ian, is diverse in the well of influences, drawing from everything from hard rock and heavy metal to classical, jazz, and even musical theater. Something that translates into their sound, where, while based within the hard rock/metal tradition, there are so many sides to the cross-referential genre interplay heard throughout "Not by Myself."
This tune is opened by a driving, knock-down, distorted guitar riff that describes the landscape, quickly joined by a drum pattern, propelling the track forward with momentum. Noztez's influence as a producer and drummer is brought to the fore from the get-go. The drum arrangements are anything but pedestrian, setting fills and shifts that add layers of energy to the song's hard-hitting foundation. That is because of the rhythmic interaction between guitar and drums, which—according to the themes—are confined and fighting for liberty.
Vocals come in with a gritty quality that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of defiance at the heart of "Not by Myself." The melody is catchy without resorting to the predictable tropes of the genre. A melodic contour works here, pointing out the diverse influences of this band; chromaticism and unexpected interlocking leaps add a veneer of polish to the visceral delivery.
The pre-chorus further builds the tension with a rising line and complex progressions. Chordal use and strategically placed passing tones create anticipation, leading fluidly into the explosive chorus. The chorus is an anthem in its own right—a melody layered over a wall of guitars and drums. The drum pattern, with its half-time feel, really makes the verses drive, creating a strong sense of tempo displacement that adds to the overall impact.
The distorted guitars drop out to bring in a much cleaner, melodic passage that spotlights the vocals. That slowly fades out at the outro, leaving nothing but a shadow of this lingering sense of defiance and the undeniable sensation that Hail to the North is a force to be reckoned with.
Hail to the North comes correct with a compelling anthem to fit the current socio-political climate, no less than displaying their incredibly coherent musical vision. With their eclectic mix of influences and arrangements, not to mention unbridled energy, Hail to the North is going to make some serious noise in the scene.
I've listened to "Not by Myself" what feels like a hundred times since its release, and with every listen comes new layers of depth. I encourage you all to give this track a listen and form an experience of your own. Check out "Not by Myself" from Hail to the North now on Spotify.