Architects (UK)
Lost Forever // Lost Together
Epitaph (2014)
Sounds like: Shai Hulud, Counterparts, Unearth, In Flames, Scandinavian Metal/Hardcore
Score: 9/10
Since starting out in 2004, the UK’s Architects have released some of the best heavy albums in recent history (Daybreaker – 2012, The Here and Now – 2011). Combining bludgeoning metal and hardcore-influenced guitar riffs with fast paced upbeat drums has always been their forte, and their newest release is no exception. Lost Forever // Lost Together spills animosity at every turn.
The old argument about some bands being too metal for the punk scene is bound to come up with Architects. Sometimes it’s a metal band using the downbeat more often than not, or a hardcore band incorporating more upbeat punk riffs and the good old forbidden beat every now and again. To me, a huge distinction between punk/hardcore and metal bands comes down to lyrical content and authenticity of delivery. Playing songs with purpose and conviction is a huge part of punk rock ethos and Architects’ ability to do that is probably one of the reasons Epitaph signed them for this release. Over the course of their albums, Architects have generally relied on socially conscious and anti-religious themes, and the songs on Lost Forever // Lost Together are equally as brutal lyrically as they are musically. Some of my favorite lines come from Naysayer, “Such narrow lines separate me and you – So sick of the sound of people giving up – You can’t stop me giving a fuck – Fuck it, I’m a dreamer and I’m dreaming on.”
I’m always impressed by Architects’ ability to play with dynamics. On Lost Forever // Lost Together they continue to find ways to make soft and atmospheric interludes mesh against blistering heaviness. These dynamics really help break things up while allowing the listener to take refuge from the brutal tonal onslaught. These dynamics also carry through to Sam Carter’s vocal approach. He flawlessly goes from full guttural screams to melodies in split seconds. His range is really something to behold and his vocals command and complement the music perfectly. The eighth track Colony Collapse is a perfect example of everything Architects has to offer, blending great atmospheric tones that gradually build into a heavy breakdown and chorus, with the vocals and music feeding off each other with every turn.
Architects is slowing growing into one of the premier hardcore/metal bands around. They’ve put forth an engaging album with Lost Forever // Lost Together, and while they may not be reinventing the wheel, they’re sure doing a great job of adding to the wheel’s legacy.
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