“Whether this Consequence marks a turning point or a stumble remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Killswitch Engage still have the fire, even if it flickers unevenly this time around.“

Words by Felix Bartlett | Feb 21, 2025

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Killswitch Engage’s ‘This Consequence’ is a fiery, unrelenting statement from a band that refuses to fade into the background. Six years after ‘Atonement’, the Massachusetts metalcore pioneers return with an album that balances their signature melodic heaviness with a raw, visceral edge.

From the opening barrage of ‘Abandon Us’, Justin Foley’s thunderous drumming sets the tone, while Jesse Leach’s impassioned vocals serve as a rallying cry against societal injustice and personal struggle. Tracks like ‘Discordant Nation’ and ‘The Fall of Us’ showcase the band’s ability to blend deathcore influences with their trademark sound, creating moments of sheer intensity. However, the album’s grittier production, while intentional, occasionally undermines the polish fans have come to expect, leaving some tracks feeling uneven.

Lyrically, ‘This Consequence‘ delves into themes of betrayal, resilience, and empowerment, though it occasionally lacks the depth of earlier works. Songs like ‘I Believe‘ and ‘Forever Aligned‘ offer anthemic uplift, but the album’s true strength lies in its heavier cuts. ‘Broken Glass‘ is a standout, with its doomy, oppressive atmosphere and Leach’s vocal versatility on full display. Meanwhile, ‘Requiem‘ closes the album on a triumphant note, blending introspection with a chorus that begs for live singalongs.

While ‘This Consequence‘ may not reach the iconic status of ‘Alive or Just Breathing‘ or ‘The End of Heartache‘, it reaffirms Killswitch Engage’s place as one of metalcore’s most influential acts. The band’s willingness to experiment with new textures—be it death metal growls or hardcore punk riffs—keeps their sound fresh, even as they stay true to their roots. For longtime fans, this album is a testament to the band’s enduring relevance; for newcomers, it’s a powerful introduction to a band that continues to evolve. Whether ‘This Consequence’ marks a turning point or a stumble remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Killswitch Engage still have the fire, even if it flickers unevenly this time around.

Verdict: 💀💀💀

For fans of: All That Remains, Trivium, Bullet For My Valentine

This Consequence is released on February 21 via Metal Blade