It’s been a good couple of years since the release of Architects’ last offering, ‘the classic symptoms of a broken spirit’. Therefore, it’s no wonder that fans have been eagerly waiting to see (and hear) what has been conjured up this time, in the form of ‘The Sky, The Earth & All Between’.
Upon listening to the album, it’s almost unbelievable that this is Architects’ 11th album. It would be easy for them to create a carbon copy of their previous album; their fans would love it, regardless. But the group have refused to let their music become stale, and it’s evident that they’re continuously working to keep their music fresh and invigorating.
But, during opening track ‘Elegy’, there’s a lingering feeling that Architects almost feel downtrodden – lyrics such as, “Cause I gave you all a part of me / I found you at the murder scene / You questioned my integrity again” are delivered in an almost weary, pleading tone. On the flip side, the line of “You’ve written out my elegy / Written out my elegy again, again, again” is almost a triumphant pushback. An elegy is typically a lament for the dead, but it’s as if Architects are showing that they are far from dead.
Singles ‘Whiplash’ and ‘Blackhole’ are both ambitious and aggressive, pumped with complex and bruising guitar riffs. Then there’s ‘Everything Ends’, which is the perfect stadium anthem; with more electronic-based undertones, this track allows Sam Carter to (yet again) show off his flawless range. His clean vocals are staggering and truly soar – hearing Carter’s range broaden over the years has been breath-taking, and this song is a fantastic example of how he has learnt to command his vocals and what he can offer when fully unleashed.
‘Brain Dead’, featuring House of Protection, crushes brutal drum work and frenetic energy into this colossal powerhouse. Cries of, “Can anyone handle the pressure?” and pleas of “Stay away, stay away, stay away” are monolithic, creating a frantic and desperate atmosphere.
It’s difficult to fully describe the feelings and emotions that ‘Evil Eyes’ invokes upon listening to it. Yet again, the chorus is simply huge, and Carter’s vocals are a force to reckon with; the easy switch from his guttural screams to his powerful clean vocals elevate this track. It doesn’t hurt that you can easily identify the electronic elements from Jordan Fish, but that’s not a bad thing – it adds another layer to this already stunning track. This can also be applied to ‘Broken Mirror’ – Architects haven’t been afraid to bear their hearts even more on their sleeve.
‘Landmines’ is packed with beautiful breakdowns and anger, and then there’s ‘Judgement Day’, which features jaw-dropping guest vocals from Amira Elfeky – they’re ethereal and soft, providing a fantastic contrast against Carter’s furious vocals.
‘Curse’ and ‘Seeing Red’ are rapid-fire tracks, brimming with visceral power and pummelling guitar work. The latter is a clapback to critical fans, demonstrated with the sarcastic line of “I’ll never grow tired of your great advice.” But fans, even the most critical, will find themselves easily falling in love with this release – every track is stunning, and easily demonstrates Architects mastery.
‘Chandelier’ signs off ‘The Sky, The Earth & All Between’ with a beautiful flourish, and simply confirms why Architects are firm favourites within the metal scene. Despite some familiarity, this album shows the band’s innovative flair – filled with intense energy and clout, Architects have created something quite special.
JESS TAGLIANI