AUGUST BURNS RED Unleashes 'Season Of Surrender': A Sonic Assault of Emotion and Power
In a recent no-holds-barred conversation with Tony Evans of Australia’s Metal Roos, AUGUST BURNS RED's frontman Jake Luhrs laid bare the band’s latest offering, 'Season Of Surrender.' Fans and critics alike have been buzzing about this record, with many pointing out its heavier nature compared to its predecessor, the 2023 release 'Death Below.' Luhrs didn’t shy away from the truth, stating, 'I think you're right in saying that it's heavier.' He elaborated on the emotional depth of the new album, saying, 'That record felt very dark and gloomy. This one is just very passionate and emotionally driven.'
Luhrs emphasized the meticulous crafting of their breakdowns, aiming to make each one hit like a freight train. 'We want it to be an experience when you feel that breakdown hit,' he explained. The intention was clear: to build up to those crushing moments in a way that feels uniquely rewarding. 'So when it gets heavy, it gets really heavy,' he declared, underscoring the album's intense instrumental and lyrical weight.
In true AUGUST BURNS RED fashion, Luhrs reaffirmed their identity as a progressive metalcore powerhouse. 'We’ve always been that band that tries to shine some hope or dig deeper into something of substance,' he noted. This dedication to meaningful songwriting is not just a tactic; it’s a reflection of Luhrs himself. 'It comes from my heart. It’s who I am,' he passionately conveyed, hoping listeners can find resonance and positivity in his life experiences shared through their music.
Released on June 5 via Fearless Records, 'Season Of Surrender' stands as a testament to the band's journey, showcasing collaborations with heavyweights like THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA's Mike Hranica, POLARIS's Jamie Hails, and MAKE THEM SUFFER. AUGUST BURNS RED's legacy is amplified by their impressive Billboard placements and Grammy nominations, accumulating a staggering 600 million streams over the years.
Reflecting on the band's current mindset, Luhrs told U.K.'s Rock Sound, 'This band has never been as unified as we are right now.' The clarity of their mission is more pronounced than ever: to solidify their unique sound and vision within the metalcore genre. Luhrs acknowledged the temptation for bands to chase trends, yet firmly declared, 'We are who we are, and we just want to make it better.' With 'Season Of Surrender,' they are not just making music; they are forging a legacy in the metal cosmos.