The five-piece Southern California metalcore innovators Atreyu have released In Our Wake. Atreyu is: Alex Varkatzas [vocals], Brandon Saller [drums/vocals], “BIG” Dan Jacobs [guitar], Travis Miguel [guitar], and Porter McKnight [bass]. In Our Wake is twelve tunes that finds the band building on their metalcore roots, while adding more classic rock sounds and influence. Atreyu’s double threat of Varkatzas and Saller as vocalist and the heavy sounds of guitarist Jacobs and Miguel is impressive. The vocal harmonies and ability for either man to take the lead gives Atreyu an unique sound and depth. The guitars are always big, full of strong hooks and the soloing is melodic, while still maintaining energy. The band covers many feels and emotions, a little nu-Metal is creeping in at some moments. The band’s core sound is alive and well though, the honest lyrics, catchy choruses, driving percussive beats and aggressive guitars all with the excellent vocals of Varkatzas and Saler. That’s the short of it!
Positives:
Amazing vocals and harmonies. Creative song forms and lyrics. Atreyu is the perfect balance of metalcore with just the right amount of classic rock melodious influence coupled with a big dynamic attitude.
Bottom Line:
In Our Wake is another win from Atreyu. The band continues to progress upon their solid metalcore roots. The track “Superman” features M Shadows (Avenged Sevenfold) and Aaron Gillespie (Underoath) as guest vocalists and this track shows a side of Atreyu that is classic and sophisticated, but still having a driving section one would expect from Atreyu. Overall, the songwriting and lyrics on In Our Wake are in top form, as the band continues to lead the pack with their dual vocalist and guitarist leading the way.