Phantom Anthem

Phantom Anthem, the eighth studio outing for August Burns Red, represents a further refinement of their 'melodic metalcore' blueprint into something approaching progressive metal. Released in 2017, the album debuted at No. 19 on the Billboard 200, cementing the band's status as leaders of the genre. This specific instrumental edition highlights the compositional depth often overshadowed by the intensity of the vocals. Recorded with long-time producers Carson Slovak and Grant McFarland, the production is exceptionally clean, allowing the intricate drum work of Matt Greiner and the harmonized lead guitars of JB Brubaker and Brent Rambler to take center stage. The album is notable for its use of non-traditional metal elements, such as the cinematic atmosphere of 'Coordinates' and the sprawling, nearly six-minute epic 'Generations.' It stands as a testament to the band's ability to maintain high-velocity aggression while incorporating sophisticated melodic structures.