“Waking The Fallen,” released on August 26, 2003, is Avenged Sevenfold‘s second studio album. This release marked a significant turning point for the band, establishing their unique sound within the metalcore genre. Combining aggression with melody, and featuring M. Shadows’ standout voice alongside the exceptional instrumental talent of the band, this album remains a classic in the metal community.
Production and Style
Produced by Andrew Murdock and the band, the album was recorded at the prestigious NRG and Ocean Studios in California. The production is clear and powerful, allowing each element—from intense guitar riffs to complex drum and bass lines—to stand out. “Waking The Fallen” is a testament to Avenged Sevenfold’s distinctive style, blending metalcore with punk and hard rock influences to create a unique and instantly recognizable sound.
La Voz de M. Shadows
One of the most notable aspects of this album is M. Shadows’ voice. On “Waking The Fallen,” Shadows showcases an impressive vocal range that spans from guttural screams to clean, emotive melodies. His ability to alternate between these styles adds an extra dimension to the songs, enhancing both the emotion and aggression in equal measure. In tracks like “Unholy Confessions” and “Eternal Rest,” his screams are essential in conveying the energy and intensity that define the album.
Track Analysis
1. “Waking The Fallen” The album opens with a dark, atmospheric instrumental introduction, setting the tone for the intensity ahead.
2. “Unholy Confessions” One of the album’s iconic tracks, it combines aggressive riffs with melodic choruses. Shadows’ screams and The Rev’s intense drumming are crucial to the track’s energy.
3. “Chapter Four” Inspired by the biblical story of Cain and Abel, this song showcases the band’s ability to blend lyrical storytelling with musical complexity. Gates and Vengeance’s guitars are particularly highlighted in this track.
4. “Remenissions” This song balances aggression and melody with smooth transitions and tempo changes, keeping the listener engaged. The drums and bass are particularly notable here, providing a solid rhythmic foundation.
5. “Eternal Rest” One of the album’s fastest and most ferocious tracks, featuring impressive guitar work and relentless drumming. Shadows’ screams and The Rev’s intensity are essential to the track.
6. “Second Heartbeat” A lengthy piece that takes the listener on an emotional journey, combining rapid, aggressive sections with reflective melodic passages. The tempo changes and guitar solos stand out in this track.
7. “Radiant Eclipse” Balances darkness and light with introspective lyrics and a composition that highlights Shadows’ vocal versatility and the band’s instrumental skill.
8. “I Won’t See You Tonight Part 1 & 2” An epic masterpiece split into two parts, exploring themes of loss and farewell. The first part is a melodic, emotional ballad, while the second part bursts with energy and despair, featuring intense screams and powerful instrumentation.
9. “Clairvoyant Disease” An underrated track that mixes melody and aggression, with a strong rhythmic base and impactful guitar solos.
10. “And All Things Will End” Closes the album on a powerful, reflective note, summarizing the album’s themes and leaving a sense of closure.
Impact and Legacy
“Waking The Fallen” not only solidified Avenged Sevenfold’s position in the metal scene but also set a new standard in metalcore. This album was crucial in developing the band’s distinctive sound, blending melodic elements with heavy aggression in an innovative way. The skill of each member in contributing their instrumental talent added an additional depth, making this album a lasting classic.
Conclusion
“Waking The Fallen” is a testament to Avenged Sevenfold’s talent and vision. Combining aggression, melody, and the instrumental prowess of all its members, this album has endured as a staple in the metalcore genre. For fans of the band and metal enthusiasts, “Waking The Fallen” is a must-listen, offering an intense and rewarding experience.
