Underneath, Hostile Array’s newest EP harnesses metalcore strength with sleek edge-to-detail processing and leaving behind toxic patterns. The Maryland band’s newest collection of songs ties the title track together with singles “Survive” and “Slow Decay” through themes of perseverance and desire for self-progress. Mental health is an often-discussed subject in metal and alternative music, but vocalist Brendan Frey approaches it with refreshing honesty and precise imagery. “I don’t think that I’m okay / I’m still fighting fires that remain / The ashes in my head won’t let me be,” he repeats on “Underneath.” Frey reflects on unlearning harmful ideals stemming from his own upbringing in rigid fundamentalist circles: “‘Survive’ is about feeling abandoned by those who were supposed to support ...