Sleep Token’s Rise: From Obscurity to Metal Trailblazers

Former Issues bassist, Skyler Acord, reminisces about the time Sleep Token opened for them on their first US tour in 2019. The band was introduced to Sleep Token through their booking agent, who shared an EP that left Acord impressed. Despite Sleep Token’s evolving sound, Acord sensed their uniqueness and potential.

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The tour, which ran from November to December 2019, featured an eclectic lineup with Sleep Token opening for rapper Lil Aaron and prog metallers Polyphia, with Issues headlining. Acord reflects on the engaging atmosphere during the shows, noting the audience’s captivation throughout the performances.

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Sharing close-knit memories from the tour, Acord describes the camaraderie among the bands, highlighting shared bus rides and Thanksgiving celebrations. The experience felt like a final celebration before unforeseen shutdowns due to external circumstances.

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While the tour fostered a sense of unity among the bands, not everyone fully grasped Sleep Token’s artistry. Acord recounts an instance in Seattle where a prominent YouTuber failed to comprehend Sleep Token’s unique style, likening the experience to witnessing a transformative moment in music history.

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Despite initial challenges in being understood, Sleep Token’s trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. Their upcoming return to the US, following successful summer events and a headline slot at Download Festival, signifies their growing influence and appeal in the metal scene.

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The band’s journey from obscurity to mainstream recognition is chronicled in Metal Hammer’s issue 400, offering a comprehensive look at Sleep Token’s evolution and impact on the metal genre. The magazine delves into the band’s latest album, “Even In Arcadia,” which has garnered critical acclaim and commercial success.

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Acord’s reflections on Sleep Token’s early days serve as a testament to the band’s transformative power and the profound impact they have had on the metal community. As Sleep Token continues to ascend in the music industry, their unique blend of artistry and innovation is poised to shape the future of metal music.

With each performance and album release, Sleep Token pushes the boundaries of metal music, captivating audiences and critics alike. Their fusion of genres and introspective lyrics resonate with fans globally, solidifying their position as one of the most influential metal bands of their generation.

As Sleep Token prepares for their next chapter, their journey serves as a reminder of the enduring power of music to transcend boundaries and connect people from diverse backgrounds. In a constantly evolving music landscape, Sleep Token’s unwavering commitment to artistic integrity and creative expression sets them apart as trailblazers in the metal genre.

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