While many fans say that the current incarnation of Atreyu is a shell of their former selves, the fact is that Atreyu is one of the most successful metalcore bands of the genre. Outside of Killswitch Engage, Bring Me The Horizon, and a dozen or so others, there are very few bands in the genre who could even do something like approach a Gold single or album.
Released on June 29th, 2004, The Curse propelled Atreyu into major popularity. It marked Atreyu’s first foray into major festivals and tours, and led by singles like “Bleeding Mascara” and “Right Side Of The Bed”, it’s not a surprise that the band found an audience. In fact, it’s popularity was such that it became one of the band’s two gold records, alongside Lead Sails Paper Anchor.
This album, as well as their subsequent two albums and their corresponding success, enabled them to do things like tour with Linkin Park and My Chemical Romance. The curse arrived on a day where bands like From First To Last and Breaking Benjamin were also dropping new albums, so the fact that The Curse did so well is a testament to both fortunate timing as well as a well-written record. The back half of the record is particularly good, with songs like the underrated “Nevada’s Grace” being particular standouts.