OF VIRTUE

There must be something in the air in Lansing, Michigan.

A few months ago I interviewed Lansing’s Heart Of Jordan whose debut album Heart Of Jordan was definitely one of the best releases of 2018. Listening to HOJ’s Spotify playlist I came upon another Lansing band, Of Virtue, whose latest L.P., What Defines You (SharpTone Records), is one of the strongest records this year. The songwriting is tenacious and the musicianship unyielding. Every song is a juggernaut that blitzes your sense of reality.

Of Virtue is a five piece metalcore/hard rock ensemble founded in 2009 and consists of Tyler Ennis (Vocals), Damon Tate (Guitar/Vocals), Michael Valadez (Guitar), Jon Fox (Bass) and Kyle Pruehs (Drums). Their first E.P. was To Breathe Again. The albums Heartsounds and Salvation followed. In 2017 they put out a single “Ghost Town” to critical acclaim.

Of Virtue delineates What Defines You, “as a testament to anyone who has been told to give up, been beaten down by life, for those who believe that they aren’t good enough, those who struggle to dream, or see beyond their own circumstances. With What Defines You we chose to tell ourselves that we will construct our own future, for better or worse, through hard work, dedication, and learning from our past”.

With What Defines You Of Virtue throws down a gauntlet not only musically but also philosophically. The band wants the listeners to dig deep down inside and find out what motivates them. Of Virtue exposes all their deep secrets and fears to help their fans overcome the emotional and physical scars they have accumulated through out the years.

The first song “No Control” is a fierce opener. Ennis’s rapid fire vocals and the band’s merciless guitars creates a relentless thrust that pounds your aural sensibilities. Pruehs’ drums are ruthless. The lyrics set the tone for the entire album.

There are some days that I feel out of place

And I think I don’t belong

I have no control

This is not my home

These imprints of alienation, rage and distrust propagate throughout the record. It’s Of Virtue‘s vehicle to let the disenfranchised and distraught know that they are not alone. Many have the same angst and frustrations including them.

“Alone” begins with a dynamic backbeat than transforms into a driving  killer riff. The tune get stronger and stronger as it plays. At one point Of Virtue’s galvanic rhythms navigate through out your entire psyche.

The chorus reinforces Of Virtue‘s potent cry of rebellion against the oppressive systems of today’s world.

God, I’m feeling like you left me on my own

God, I’m feeling like someone you’ll never know

Not calling out again, not following your plan

God, I’m feeling like I’m better off alone

Next up are two more propulsive songs. “Suffer” highlights Ennis’  immense metal screaming ability and Fox’s mammoth bass. “Immortal” again showcases Pruehs’ drumming with a voluminous beat.

“Thanks For Nothing” is my personal favorite. The tune just flows with energy and bombast. Of Virtue‘s tirade to a wrecked relationship. These boys hit hard.

The thought of you 

It leaves such a bitter taste in my mouth

So, thanks for nothing

The promises you made don’t mean a thing to me

So, thanks for nothing

The next song on What Defines You is “Pictures Of You” featuring Kalie Wolfe of Rivals. Another tome about a failed love. Of Virtue makes excellent use of softer tones mixed with hard rock flourishes. “I Won’t Break” follows and the band powers through determined to strive on. Their utilization of electronica enhances their violent and sweeping guitar licks.

“Surrounded”, “Torn Apart” and “Confide In Me” rounds out What Defines You. All three powerful songs with “Torn Apart”‘s chorus hard hitting.

I want to thank Heart Of Jordan for the introduction of Of Virtue. Both band are amazing entities whose music is poignant and heartfelt. Two bands who will help shape the future of metal.

Of Virtue

• Tyler Ennis——————Vocals
• Damon Tate—————–Guitar/Vocals
• Michael Valadez————-Guitar
• Jon Fox———————–Bass
• Kyle Pruehs——————Dums

What Defines You is OF Virtue‘s third album

• Heartsounds—————–2011
• Salvation———————2015
• What Defines You———–2019

OF Virtue is currently on tour

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