“Who will we leave in our wake?” There doesn’t seem to be a more poignant time to pose this question, given the state of our world and political climate. So it is fitting that Atreyu would choose to call their newest release In Our Wake.
The seventh studio album comes three years after the band’s so-called “comeback record” Long Live. It is a solid reflection of the growth and evolution of the group over the past few years. With definite maturity and broadened creativity, In Our Wake dares to take a few experimental dips. However, it is also built on the framework of success. In other words, it’s clearly an Atreyu record—only with more sophistication.
The band entered the studio between touring commitments, taking a fresh “from scratch” approach to writing. The effects of creating in the moment are undoubtedly what give this album such life. Producer John Feldmann (who also worked on Lead Sails, Paper Anchor) helped to round out the desired quality. This is could easily be some of the most authentic work the band has recently turned out. Legacy had always been an important goal for these guys. In Our Wake will undoubtedly push them even closer—at least in the mind of drummer/vocalist Brandon Saller. “I feel like this is the record that people will remember our band by,” he says, “The best parts of Atreyu happened on it.”
Those themes are continually transcendent and expanded upon here. In Our Wake is a musical examination of the ripple effect our choices produce. Effects that trickle down to loved ones, yourself, or society in general. It poses a thought-provoking question: will we live responsibly? Clearly, the band’s answer is a resounding yes. Vocalist Alex Varkatas cites the deaths of Chris Cornell and Chester Bennington as a stepping stone. “Their deaths were fresh during the writing process. It made us think of what we’ll leave in our wake. We have a choice to change the lives of others for the better.”
The title track opens the record, beginning with a simplistic yet attention-grabbing introduction. Saller’s crisp vocals and militant-esque drum beat resonate like a sonic battle cry. It then forges straight ahead with the speed, punch, and tenacity that Atreyu is known for. “Nothing Will Ever Change” and “Anger Left Behind” see some of Atreyu’s metalcore roots come back into play. With a thundering pace, Varkatzas viciously screams as Saller contrasts with forceful yet melodic singing. Equally in sync is the fist-pumping and harmonious guitar work of Travis Miguel and Dan Jacobs. Tying it all together are the understated but necessary bass thumps of Porter McKnight.
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In stark contradiction, but with no less importance, “Terrified” is where the album begins to show diversity. Acoustic work fills in the bridges as subdued violins carry the choruses. Saller’s vocals are prominent, strong and almost haunting. “Super Hero” is the biggest departure, and brings the ends together nicely. Avenged Sevenfold’s M. Shadows and Aaron Gillespie of Underoath both make guest appearances. The symphonic elements on both tracks help to encapsulate the range and depth of material on In Our Wake.
One thing that also stands out as a whole is the vocals in general. Both Saller and Varkatzas have shared those duties since the band’s early inception. In the past, it seemed that each of them had a clearly defined strong point. There seems to be a notable amount of improvement in quality and range, compared to previous albums. On this album, both voices—and everything else— do much justice.
Score: 7/10
