Album Review: ATREYU – Baptize

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Atreyu – Baptize

Label: Spinefarm Records

Release Date: June 4, 2021

As I listen to Baptize, the new album from the veteran metalcore band Atreyu, I remember high energy, excellence, bare bones guitar riffs and kicks. They are the on the cusp of hard rock and glam and give the sounds of thrash and hardcore punk listeners something to look forward to. True, compared to some of their past albums there are a few changes. Such as the replacement of the lead singer Alex Varkatzas by  longtime band drummer Brandon Saller and Kyle Rosa stepping in as the group’s new drummer. This could’ve been vital to album creation but it seems like Atreyu has had some practice towards a seamless transition with its new members. Not only that but this new album has treats in the likes of guest artists such as Travis Barker (Blink-182), Jacoby Shaddix (Papa Roach), Matt Heafy (Trivium), and producer John Feldmann (Korn, Ded, Godsmack).

Atreyu are really creating a new sound together with songs like “Underrated” that has the potential to be a summer anthem song. With the speedy entry and build up, it could inspire new potential metal members to listen. All-inclusive fun and kick ass drum beats for that upper you might need.

“Dead Weight” has great transitions and harmony. I have read multiple comments on YouTube that said Atreyu introduced them to metal and the sorrowful story and struggle remains true of their storytelling abilities. It can evoke emotion, drawing in a listener and still giving them that metal feel they crave.

“Save Us” has the harmonies that make you feel like you have a real connection. The dirty lyrics from bassist Porter McKnight and the clean chorus line from Saller compliment each other so well that this is a definite crowd pleaser. It moves and provokes the audience and inspires mosh euphoria. It would pump up the crowd and give the right amount of adrenaline needed for a live show. The build-up and catchy chorus will make this a jam to listen to while partying or driving.

There are other songs like “Fucked Up” that also feel like a bad year and the struggles of trying to create and produce music during quarantine. Keeping it together and letting people know that we are all going through the same things. The album feels like a common theme of loss and trials that everyone has faced over the last year.

Incredibly relatable with great vocals and riffs. The lyrics and hard screams of memorable metal feels from past.
Overall, songs like “Warrior” featuring Travis Barker are going to probably receive the most media play but there are several songs that stick in my head and I would love to see more radio play for. I can’t wait until they are able to do live shows again. I do believe they will continue to be a crowd favorite. The diverse sound of Atreyu just goes to show how this band is still growing and I guarantee will still inspire new bands and listeners alike. I can’t wait to hear what is next to come. Baptize is available June 4, 2021, and I highly recommend giving it a listen.

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