Review POISON RUïN “Hymns From the Hills”

If you glance at the cover artwork of “Hymns From the Hills,” you might expect a dungeon-and-dragons-inspired metal album, but that assumption would be misleading. Poison Ruïn, a punk rock band from Philadelphia, deliver something entirely different with their third full-length release.

While the artwork may not reflect the album’s sound, it plays an essential role in the band’s artistic identity. Poison Ruïn draw heavily on historical and medieval symbolism, using it as a lens to explore and articulate the frustrations of modern life. This thematic depth gives the record a distinctive character that sets it apart from more conventional punk releases.

The album opens with a cinematic intro that transitions seamlessly into “Lily of the Valley,” a gloomy post-punk track that establishes the record’s dark and atmospheric tone. The title track, “Hymns From the Hills,” begins with an eerie, spacious mood before a driving drum roll kicks it into high gear, transforming it into a fast-paced, rebellious punk anthem.

“Eidolon” leans more directly into the band’s punk roots, while “Howls From the Citadel” showcases their willingness to experiment, incorporating deeper soundscapes and prominent synth elements. This balance between raw energy and sonic exploration continues with “Guts (Lay Your Self Aside),” an unrefined and untamed track that captures the band’s anarchic spirit. In contrast, “Puzzle Box” emphasizes wave influences, adding yet another layer to the album’s stylistic diversity.

At several moments, the album reminds of bands like Killing Joke, but “Hymns From the Hills” ultimately draws from a broader and more varied range of influences. The result is a raw, unpolished musical journey driven by creative freedom and a clear artistic vision.

From wave-infused passages to ferocious punk outbursts and blsatbeats, the album offers a dynamic and versatile listening experience. This culminates in standout tracks like the spiritually charged “Sleeping Giant,” which contrasts sharply yet effectively with the album’s more chaotic moments.

With “Hymns From the Hills,” Poison Ruïn carve out their own niche, delivering a record that is captivating, challenging, and at times deliberately disorienting. It’s an album that rewards repeated listening and invites deeper exploration.