One of the best albums of the year

I’ve been listening to this band since The Inspiration came out in 2007. I loved the melodic hardcore style they had. The guitars were something on the album that truly stood to me. But it was also Ian Fike’s both passionate lyrics and vocals what would suck you in. Since then, Fike has expanded his vocal range and has produced a great singing voice on everything after. Hence, their new album Stroma, is a fucking masterpiece. There’s even more melodies with the guitars, Fike’s lyrics and projection of these lyrics invoke emotions of all sorts. Break Away and What You’ve Been Searching For are great examples of the guitar melodies, while Holes and Cage With Gold Bars (one of the best songs on the album) are prime examples of Fike’s ability to carry the song with this vocal talents. But let’s not forget the low end here. The basslines compliment the guitars perfectly and are audible!! There’s no crazy fills all the time on the drums, or constant thundering double bass or blastbeats. The drumming is precisely on key with the music and these patterns are haunting at times. This is highly recommended to fans of Shai Hulud or Killing The Dream. This is hands down one of the best albums of the year. So glad these guys got a secure label deal and are heading on tour. Can’t wait to see them and for my pre-order to arrive. Bottom line: get this album and learn every lyric.