Animals as Leaders

Animals as Leaders is an American instrumental progressive metal band formed in 2007 by guitarist Tosin Abasi in Washington, D.C. The group is known for its complex, polyrhythmic compositions and the integration of diverse musical influences, including jazz fusion, electronic music, and classical guitar techniques.

History

• Formation and early development (2007–2009)
  After the dissolution of the metalcore band Reflux, Abasi sought to create a project that emphasized technical proficiency and genre-blending. He recruited drummer Navene Koperweis, formerly of Animals as Leaders' sister project Animosity, and bassist Javier Reyes. The trio recorded a self-titled demo that attracted attention from record label Prosthetic Records.

• Debut album (2009)
  In 2009, Animals as Leaders released their eponymous debut album via Prosthetic Records. Produced by Misha Mansoor (Periphery), the album featured twelve tracks and garnered critical acclaim for its virtuosic guitar work and innovative song structures. The album peaked at No. 23 on the Billboard Top Heatseekers chart.

• Subsequent releases

  • Weightless (2011) – The second studio album expanded the band’s sonic palette with increased use of electronic elements and ambient textures. It reached No. 19 on the Top Heatseekers chart.
  • The Joy of Motion (2014) – Produced by Misha Mansoor and recorded with engineer Ross Robinson, this album debuted at No. 23 on the Billboard 200, marking the band’s highest chart position to date. The record was praised for its blend of melodic passages and rhythmic complexity.
  • Monomyth (2015) – A collaborative EP featuring guitarist Misha Mansoor and vocalist Marty Friedman, offering a limited release of instrumental tracks.
  • Life Form (2017) – The fourth studio album incorporated vocal contributions from vocalist Shayna Riddle (guest) and explored more dynamic song arrangements.
  • Parrhesia (2022) – The most recent full-length album at the time of writing, produced by the band and mixed by Jeff Dunne, continued the group’s exploration of technical metal while integrating new electronic and orchestral elements.

Band members

• Tosin Abadi “Tosin” Abasi – guitars (2007–present)
• Javier “J” Reyes – bass guitar, synths (2007–present)
• Matt Garstka – drums, percussion (2011–present)

Former members include Navene Koperweis (drums, 2007–2011) and several touring musicians for live performances.

Musical style and influences

Animals as Leaders is categorized within the progressive metal and djent subgenres, though their instrumental focus distinguishes them from many contemporaries. Their music frequently employs 8‑string guitars, extended-range techniques, and odd time signatures (e.g., 5/4, 7/8, 13/8). Influences cited by band members include:

• Guitarists: Jimi Hendrix, Steve Vai, Al Di Meola, John McLaughlin
• Metal acts: Meshuggah, Cynic, Opeth
• Jazz and fusion artists: Weather Report, Chick Corea
• Electronic and ambient music

The band’s compositions often feature layered guitar harmonies, tapping, sweep picking, and progressive rhythmic cycles. Their use of digital production tools enables complex sound design, integrating synthesized pads, glitch effects, and programmed percussion alongside live instrumentation.

Reception and impact

Critics have consistently praised Animals as Leaders for technical mastery and innovation within instrumental metal. The band has been credited with popularizing extended‑range guitars in the modern metal scene and influencing a generation of guitarists. Their albums have collectively sold over 500,000 copies worldwide and have charted on multiple Billboard categories, including Top Hard Rock Albums and Independent Albums.

Live performances

Animals as Leaders’ live shows are noted for high-fidelity sound reproduction and the use of visual multimedia effects. The trio tours internationally, often sharing stages with progressive metal acts such as Periphery, Between the Buried and Me, and Plini. In 2020, live streaming performances were produced in response to the COVID‑19 pandemic, featuring audience interaction via chat platforms.

Discography (selected)

References

• AllMusic. “Animals as Leaders Biography.” Accessed July 2026.
• Billboard. “Animals as Leaders Chart History.” Accessed July 2026.
• Interviews with Tosin Abasi, Guitar World (2014, 2017).
• Official website, animalsasleaders.com (archived releases and band announcements).