Canadian metal outfit Spiritbox makes a strong case for being the next big thing in the genre with their debut album, “Eternal Blue.” Fronted by the captivating Courtney LaPlante, Spiritbox blends elements of metalcore, progressive metal, and even pop into a sound that is both catchy and crushing.
“Eternal Blue” is an emotional rollercoaster ride. LaPlante’s vocals are a revelation, shifting effortlessly between ethereal cleans and gut-wrenching growls. Tracks like “Sun Killer” showcase the band’s ability to seamlessly weave beauty and brutality together. The song opens with an ominous chant before exploding into a maelstrom of djent riffs and LaPlante’s ferocious growls. Just when you think the song can’t get any heavier, it drops into a surprisingly catchy chorus, led by LaPlante’s soaring vocals.
The album isn’t all aggression, though. Tracks like “We Live in a Strange World” explore a more melodic side, showcasing LaPlante’s impressive vocal range and the band’s knack for crafting memorable hooks. Spiritbox isn’t afraid to experiment either. The title track, “Eternal Blue,” is a haunting ballad that features atmospheric electronics and restrained instrumentation, a stark contrast to the album’s heavier moments.
Some might criticize “Eternal Blue” for its genre-bending tendencies. The album doesn’t fit neatly into any one category, which could alienate fans of more purist styles of metal. However, this is also the album’s strength. Spiritbox isn’t afraid to push boundaries and carve out their own sonic niche.
“Eternal Blue” is a remarkable debut album. It’s an album that rewards repeated listens, revealing new layers of complexity with each spin. With its blend of emotional depth, sonic brutality, and catchy songwriting, “Eternal Blue” marks the arrival of a major new force in the metal scene.
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