Thirty years in, Coheed and Cambria continue to thrive with their new album Vaxis III: The Father of Make Believe proving they are as vital and inventive as ever.

Words by Felix Bartlett | March 11, 2025

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Nestled neatly in the memories of many who grew up in the ’90s and 2000s is the name Coheed and Cambria. While they may not have achieved the same mainstream prominence as the likes of Taking Back Sunday or Fall Out Boy, their infectious sound is undeniably recognisable. For many including me, their music occupies a special place in the hippocampus of our minds, and their latest offering peels that place open to allow the memories to come flooding back.

As the band celebrates their 30th year, Coheed and Cambria return with Vaxis III: The Father of Make Believe, an album that proves they are as vital and inventive as ever. This third installment in the Vaxis saga continues the epic Amory Wars narrative while delving into frontman Claudio Sanchez’s personal life, creating a rich tapestry of sci-fi fantasy and raw emotional truth. The result is a record that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking, a perfect blend of the band’s storied past and their ever-evolving artistry.

‘Yesterday’s Lost,’ sets the tone with a haunting piano and acoustic ballad that gently ushers listeners into the expansive world of The Amory Wars. It’s a tender introduction, setting the stage for the emotional and sonic journey ahead. From there, the record quickly shifts gears with ‘Goodbye, Sunshine,’ a pop-punk-infused anthem that showcases Claudio Sanchez’s knack for crafting infectious hooks and explosive choruses that feels like it was crafted for their upcoming headline slot at this years 2000 Trees Festival.

The title track, ‘The Father of Make Believe,’ is a standout moment, blending hard rock grit with introspective lyricism. Sanchez delves into his dual roles as a storyteller and a family man, weaving personal vulnerability into the album’s overarching sci-fi narrative. His lyrics, as always, are poetic and layered, offering listeners a glimpse into his inner world while advancing the Amory Wars saga. The track’s driving rhythm and anthemic quality make it a centerpiece of the album.

One of the most exciting aspects of The Father of Make Believe is its willingness to experiment. ‘Play the Poet’ channels the raw energy of nu-metal, complete with aggressive breakdowns and robotic vocal effects, while ‘One Last Miracle’ delivers a stadium-sized rock ballad that feels destined for sing-alongs. The album also revisits Coheed’s love for multi-part suites with ‘The Continuum I-IV,’ a sprawling prog epic that twists and turns through intricate arrangements and dramatic crescendos. It’s a reminder of the band’s progressive prowess and their ability to craft ambitious, multi-dimensional compositions.

The Father of Make Believe is a celebration of Coheed and Cambria’s legacy, offering something for both longtime fans and newcomers. Whether you’re drawn to the emotional depth of the title track, the infectious energy of ‘Goodbye, Sunshine,’ or the progressive ambition of ‘The Continuum,’ this album is a testament to the band’s enduring creativity and relevance. Thirty years in, Coheed and Cambria are still at the top of their game, and The Father of Make Believe is a shining example of this and why they hold a special place in my heart and others alike.

Verdict: 💀💀💀💀

For fans of: Taking Back Sunday, Fall Out Boy, Thrice

‘The Father Of Make Believe’ by Coheed And Cambria is released on 14th March on Virgin Music Group.