Since their emergence from Cedarville, Ohio, in 2008, they've carved a unique niche in the genre, refusing to compromise their message while pushing musical boundaries. Now, with their sixth full-length album "Wasteland" set to release on May 30th via Solid State Records, the band is poised to deliver their most ambitious and conceptually rich work to date.
The announcement of "Wasteland" comes at a crucial moment in the band's career, following their critically acclaimed 2022 release "Eulogies." The new album, co-produced by frontman Steve Cobucci and Spiritbox's Josh Gilbert, represents a bold step forward in the band's sonic evolution, incorporating electronic elements and atmospheric interludes while maintaining their signature aggressive edge.
The album's first single, "Parasite," serves as a perfect introduction to the themes and musical direction of "Wasteland." The track masterfully combines synthesizers with crushing breakdowns, creating a soundscape that's both modern and deeply rooted in metalcore traditions. But it's the lyrical content that truly sets this release apart.
"We wanted to write a song that explores the relationship between a parasite and its host," explains vocalist/guitarist Steve Cobucci. "It's a powerful metaphor for how we all relate to our own weaknesses, tendencies, and sin." This metaphor extends beyond simple religious allegory, touching on universal themes of human struggle and the constant battle between desire and destruction.
The video for "Parasite" reinforces these themes through striking imagery and cinematography, presenting a visual narrative that complements the song's intense message. The chorus line "I died a million times to live" encapsulates the paradoxical nature of spiritual warfare – the constant death to self required for true life.
The album's title, "Wasteland," serves as more than just a name – it's a metaphor for a state of mind that Cobucci and his bandmates explore throughout the record's 13 tracks. "It's a metaphor for a state of mind I don't want to live in, but a world I feel I keep returning to," Cobucci reveals. "It's a world of empty promises. It's a mirage. A counterfeit."
The album's structure, including interludes and electronic overtures, creates a journey through this metaphorical wasteland. From the opening track "INT[r]O" to the closing "UNREST," each song builds upon the last, creating a cohesive narrative about spiritual desolation and the hope of redemption.
Since their formation in 2008, Wolves at the Gate has built their reputation on a foundation of lyrical authenticity and musical innovation. Their discography, including landmarks like "Captors" (2012), "VxV" (2014), "Types & Shadows" (2016), "Eclipse" (2019), and "Eulogies" (2022), shows a band constantly pushing forward while staying true to their core message.
The recording process for "Wasteland" took place across multiple locations – New Jersey, San Diego, and Los Angeles – allowing the band to capture different energies and approaches. The collaboration with Josh Gilbert has added new dimensions to their sound, particularly in the electronic elements that weave throughout the album.
The album features 13 tracks:
- "INT[r]O"
- "[Wasteland] PAIN"
- "PARASITE"
- "SYNTHETIC SUN"
- "wandering"
- "LAW [of the Wasteland]"
- "SMOKE [of False Devils]"
- "withering"
- "DEATH CLOCK"
- "wasting"
- "MEMENTO MORI"
- "thirsting"
- "UNREST"
The current lineup consists of:
- Steve Cobucci (vocals/guitar)
- Nick Detty (vocals)
- Joey Alarcon (guitar)
- Abishai Collingsworth (drums)
- Ben Summers (bass)
"Wasteland" represents more than just another album in Wolves at the Gate's discography – it's a testament to their growth as artists and their unwavering commitment to creating meaningful, message-driven metalcore. The album promises to be both a return to form and a bold step forward, combining the best elements of their past work with new sonic territories.
As May 30th approaches, anticipation builds for what could be one of the most significant Christian metalcore releases of 2024. With "Parasite" already showcasing the band's evolved sound and deepened thematic approach, "Wasteland" is poised to be a landmark release not just for Wolves at the Gate, but for the genre as a whole.
Pre-orders for "Wasteland" are available now through Solid State Records, offering fans the chance to secure their copy of what promises to be one of the year's most compelling metalcore releases.
