ALBUM REVIEW – Luke Petty
Atreyu is on fire right now. They’re delivering some of the most electrifying live performances of their career, and their recent musical output has been nothing short of phenomenal. This year alone, they’ve unleashed three scorching EPs: The Hope of a Spark, The Moment You Find Your Flame, and A Torch In the Dark. To cap off an incredible year, they’re now gearing up to drop a full-length album that seamlessly blends all three EPs into one cohesive masterpiece, along with a few extra banging tracks for good measure. The Beautiful Dark Of Life is Atreyu’s ninth studio album releasing December 8th.
Let’s address the obvious change in Atreyu’s sound, particularly with the vocalist change and their shift towards a more melodically-driven vocal style. As a devoted fan for nearly two decades, I’ve always been drawn to Atreyu’s soaring choruses and infectious sing-along moments, and this new direction only amplifies those elements for me.
The album kicks off with the previously released single ‘Drowning’ setting the stage for an exhilarating ride. But it’s the album-exclusive track ‘Insomnia’ that truly steals the show. This gem might just be one of my all-time favorite Atreyu songs. Its massive chorus and the sheer passion infused into the performance gave me goosebumps the first time I heard it.
‘God/Devil’ is another powerhouse track that perfectly captures Atreyu’s knack for crafting infectious sing-alongs. The chorus is nothing short of electrifying, and the lyrics are deeply resonant, making me want to revisit the song again and again.
Later songs ‘Immortal’ and ‘(i)’ are also fantastic additions to the album, but after listening to this record countless times since I first discovered it, I can honestly say that there’s not a single dud on the entire tracklist.
From the moment the electrifying guitar riff shreds the air and Brandon Saller’s voice takes flight, ‘Death or Glory’ unleashes an epic auditory adventure, perfectly capturing the band’s signature melodic metalcore sound. The lyrics, a testament to the indomitable human spirit, ignite a fire within, urging listeners to confront their fears and fight for their convictions. Saller’s impassioned delivery of the chorus, a melody that instantly burrows into your mind, is nothing short of captivating.
Usually, there are one or two underwhelming songs, especially on an album with fifteen tracks like this one, but that’s not the case with The Beautiful Dark Of Life. Every single song is exceptional in its own way, whether it’s punchy, melodic, or stripped-back, and I’m completely here for it.
Saller pours his heart and soul into every note he delivers. His vocals are a captivating blend of raw emotion and soaring melodies, effortlessly transitioning from spine-tingling highs to gritty, passionate screams. The rest of the band complements Saller’s brilliance with their impeccable musicianship and a deep understanding of Atreyu’s signature sound. Together, they create a sonic tapestry that is both powerful and moving.
The Beautiful Dark Of Life is a must-listen for any fan of Atreyu or melodic metalcore. It’s a cohesive and well-crafted album that showcases the band’s versatility and their ability to write catchy, hook-laden songs. I highly recommend giving it a spin.
The Beautiful Dark Of Life is out on 8 December on all streaming platforms. Atreyu are also touring next year in February next year with Bad Love – to get tickets go to www.silverbacktouring.com
