Atonement (Killswitch Engage album)
Atonement is the eighth studio album by American metalcore band Killswitch Engage. It was released on August 16, 2019, through Metal Blade Records.
Background and Recording:
Following the release of their previous album, Incarnate (2016), Killswitch Engage embarked on extensive touring. During this period, guitarist Adam Dutkiewicz experienced significant back problems, requiring surgery. This medical issue significantly impacted the songwriting and recording process for Atonement. Dutkiewicz's physical limitations forced him to contribute remotely for a significant portion of the album's creation. The band also experienced other personal challenges during this time, which contributed to the overall themes explored in the album.
Themes and Composition:
Atonement explores themes of redemption, resilience, and overcoming adversity, reflecting the personal struggles the band members faced during its creation. Musically, the album stays true to Killswitch Engage's signature metalcore sound, blending aggressive riffs, melodic choruses, and dual guitar harmonies. It also incorporates elements of thrash metal and progressive metal in certain tracks.
Release and Reception:
Atonement received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its strong songwriting, musicianship, and emotional depth. It charted in several countries, reaching the top 20 in the United States on the Billboard 200 chart.
Track Listing:
- Unleashed
- The Signal Fire (feat. Howard Jones)
- Us Against the World
- The Crownless King (feat. Chuck Billy)
- I Am Broken Too
- As Sure as the Sun Will Rise
- Know Your Enemy
- Take Control
- Ravenous
- I Can't Be Stopped
- The Worst Is Yet to Come
Personnel:
- Jesse Leach - Vocals
- Adam Dutkiewicz - Guitar, Vocals
- Joel Stroetzel - Guitar
- Mike D'Antonio - Bass
- Justin Foley - Drums
Guest Musicians:
- Howard Jones - Vocals on "The Signal Fire"
- Chuck Billy - Vocals on "The Crownless King"