In Waves

Released in 2011, In Waves represents a pivotal shift in Trivium's career, moving away from the complex thrash and progressive structures of Shogun toward a more streamlined, melodic metalcore approach. This 'creative backward step' was noted by critics as a return to the accessibility of their breakout Ascendancy, but with significantly more mature songwriting and production. The album's visual and sonic identity was heavily influenced by film and modern art, moving away from traditional metal tropes toward a minimalist, monochromatic aesthetic. Recorded at Paint it Black Studios with producer Colin Richardson, the record emphasizes groove and 'the hook' over technical showmanship. It remains the band's highest-charting album in the US, debuting at No. 13 on the Billboard 200. It also features the debut of drummer Nick Augusto, whose background in grindcore brought a faster, more aggressive percussion style to the band's repertoire, most notably through the increased use of blast beats.