Bleugh! Architects are back baby! – “The Sky, the Earth & All Between honours Architects’ past while pushing their sound forward, proving that even after 20 years, they’re still capable of reinvention.”

Words by Felix Bartlett | Feb 28, 2025

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What feels like aeons have finally come to pass with the release of Architects’ 11th studio album, The Sky, the Earth & All Between, now finally upon us, and we can safely say the wait was well worth it, with this being a monumental achievement that cements their place as one of the most vital bands in modern metal. Two decades into their career, the Brighton quartet has not only survived but thrived, delivering what may be their most cohesive and ambitious work to date. This album is a masterclass in balancing what has become Architect’s heaviness with soaring melodies, all while exploring themes of grief, self-reflection, and societal critique.

The record opens with ‘Elegy’, a track that immediately sets the tone with its colossal riffs and Sam Carter’s all-too-familiar epic vocal performance that continues to deliver that sweet Architects sound we’ve become accustomed to. His ability to seamlessly transition from haunting cleans to guttural screams is on full display here, and the track’s anthemic chorus feels tailor-made for arena-sized singalongs. It’s clear the band have learnt a thing or two from their sensational Bloodstock headline slot and their tour supporting Metallica, with the track serving as a statement of intent, signalling that Architects are here to reclaim their throne.

Previously released singles like ‘Whiplash’ and ‘Blackhole’ deliver the heaviest moments on this record, with Dan Searle’s thunderous drumming and Adam Christianson’s razor-sharp guitar work driving the chaos. The addition of Jordan Fish’s production expertise (formerly of Bring Me the Horizon) is evident here, as layers of synths and electronic textures elevate the sound without overshadowing the band’s core identity. ‘Blackhole’, in particular, is a relentless onslaught, with blast beats and breakdowns that harken back to their earlier, more aggressive days.

It’s Fish’s production that provides my only criticism for this record. Yes, I, like many, have absolutely loved Fish branching out to sprinkle his production magic on some of the most epic releases that have come out in the alt scene over the past couple of years (Here’s looking at you House Of Protection and Poppy). But Fish’s involvement sometimes becomes far more than subtle and again occasionally veers too close for comfort, feeling a little too akin to his previous work with Bring Me the Horizon. Tracks like ‘Broken Mirror’ and ‘Landmines’ flirt with this issue, though they’re saved by Dan Searle’s absolutely sensational drum work and Carter’s commanding presence.

The album isn’t all fury, though. ‘Everything Ends’ and ‘Chandelier’ provide moments of introspection and vulnerability. The former is a radio-friendly rock anthem with a melancholic edge, while the latter serves as a poignant closer, with Carter’s emotive vocals and a soaring crescendo that feels both cathartic and hopeful. It’s a reminder that Architects’ strength lies in their ability to balance raw emotion with technical precision.

Guest appearances add further depth to the record. ‘Judgement Day’ features Amira Elfeky, whose ethereal vocals create a haunting contrast to Carter’s growls, while ‘Brain Dead’ sees House of Protection bringing a chaotic energy with a dash of their signature sound that perfectly complements the band’s intensity. These collaborations feel organic, enhancing the album rather than detracting from it.

Lyrically, The Sky, the Earth & All Between is as incisive as ever. Searle’s words grapple with personal demons, societal decay, and the band’s own legacy. ‘Seeing Red’ is a scathing rebuke of their critics, with Carter snarling, “I’ll never grow tired of your great advice,” while ‘Whiplash’ takes aim at the toxicity of online discourse. It’s a testament to the band’s growth that they can channel their frustrations into such compelling art.

Ultimately, The Sky, the Earth & All Between succeeds as a worthy successor to 2022’s the classic symptoms or a broken spirit, serving a dish of their signature metalcore sound in new and exciting ways that is sure to please fans both old and new and see Architects heading to new heights – dare I say worthy Download 2026 headliners? It’s an album that honours Architects’ past while pushing their sound forward, proving that even after 20 years, they’re still capable of reinvention. It feels like the appropriate next step for the band and will certainly have its naysayers, but for me this album marks the next bold chapter for the band.

Verdict: 💀💀💀💀

For fans of: Parkway Drive, Bring Me The Horizon, Bad Omens

I Had a Name is released on February 28^th via Epitaph