This summer has been chalk full of great releases from melodic hardcore bands. Counterparts released Tragedy Will Find Us on July 24th and just recently Defeater announced an upcoming new album titled Abandoned that will be released on August 28th. Abandoned which is rumored to be a concept album follows the story of a priest who is struggling with his faith during times of war. Derek Archambault’s complex lyrics accompanied by his heart wrenching vocals flow perfectly from song to song, sounding slightly more delicate during his small spoken word parts throughout the album.
Abandoned begins with the song Contrition which fades in slowly, with Derek reciting prayer verses. As the song slowly builds the lyrics “Forgive me, my father for I am a sinner” are repeated over and over. Throughout the album the reoccurring theme of faithlessness appears many times, such as in songs like Unanswered which opens with the lyrics “I was a good man once, I was a good man once, four years of unanswered prayers have left me faithless”.
Compared to previous albums Abandoned is hands down the heaviest by far, toying with complex concepts the band has never touched on before such as religion and war. However even with all that being said there is still a beautifully melodic feel to every song on this album. Guitarists Jay Maas, Jake Woodruff and Bassist Mike Poulin create sophisticated melodies that contrast greatly with the weight of Derek’s harsh vocals and drummer Andy Reitz pounding beats.
Unarguably, Abandoned has become one of the most anticipated albums of this summer. Fans surely won’t be disappointed with this album, Defeater keeps things consistent and has yet to release anything other than amaizingly well-made music. If you’re a fan of bands like Counterparts and love a good concept album make sure to check out Defeater’s Abandoned when it drops August 28th.
