Talk about an album that’ll be considered very influential in the not so distant future. While She Sleeps’ This Is The Six, released in 2012, was a real watershed moment for the band. While building their fanbase overseas took a bit more time, the metalcore band got off to a hot start on this record, which was released on this day in 2012.
Shockingly developed in a scene where many bands get only one shot to stand out, This Is The Six is a reason why While She Sleeps have graduated to becoming one of the bigger bands in metal and hardcore in general. The key here? Big hooks and explosive music that really proves to be an engaging experience overall.
Blurring the lines between hardcore punk, metal, metalcore, and rock, tracks like “Seven Hills” and “Be(lie)ve” contain an anthemic quality that many bands in their playing field don’t seem to have. Melodies without sacrificing intensity? Glorious, really. Songs like “Love At War” and album standout “Our Courage, Our Cancer” show off Sleeps’ more melodic side, while “Death Toll” showcases their moshpit-ready anthems.
Setting the tone for their more recent records (especially 2015’s Brainwashed), This Is The Six is the record that put Sleeps on the immediate map. Armed with a strong vocalist in Lawrence Taylor and a capable rhythm section anchored by drummer Adam Savage, This Is The Six is a heavy debut record not to be missed.
