With Roots Above and Branches Below

Released in 2009, 'With Roots Above and Branches Below' represents the definitive evolution of The Devil Wears Prada. Moving away from the more playful, synth-heavy 'Plagues', this record introduced a darker, more mature palette influenced by melodic death metal and post-hardcore. Recorded in early 2009 after a transformative run on the Warped Tour, the album features more complex song structures and a 'mechanical' rhythmic precision, as noted by keyboardist James Baney. The artwork by Dan Seagrave - famed for his death metal covers - signaled the band's shift toward a more serious, 'epic' aesthetic. It debuted at #11 on the Billboard 200, a massive feat for a metalcore act at the time, and solidified their position as leaders of the genre. The album is notable for its balance of religious themes and existential struggle, delivered through Hranica's increasingly poetic lyrical style.