What makes Afterburner by Dance Gavin Dance notable?

Upon its release, Afterburner debuted at No. 13 on the Billboard 200, marking one of their highest chart positions to date. The album received generally favorable reviews, highlighting its dynamic sound and lyrical depth, and further cemented the band's influence in the modern post-hardcore genre. Afterburner is Dance Gavin Dance's eighth studio album, released during a period of steady evolution following their 2018 album, Artificial Selection. The band continued to solidify their place in the post-hardcore scene with this release, showcasing their ability to innovate while maintaining core fan appeal.

Who is Afterburner for?

Afterburner works well if you're into steady mid-tempo flow throughout, eclectic soundscapes for exploration and dynamic vocal performances engage.

How many songs are on Afterburner?

Afterburner has 26 tracks, running approximately 97 minutes.

Afterburner

Dance Gavin Dance · 2020

97 min · 26 tracks · progressive rock

A kaleidoscopic blend of intricate guitar work and emotive vocals, navigating through chaotic yet melodic soundscapes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Prisoner — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its frenetic energy and complex rhythms, immediately drawing listeners into the band's sonic landscape.
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One in a Million — The catchy chorus and introspective lyrics showcase the band's signature blend of melodic hooks and emotional depth, making it a standout within the album.
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Strawberry’s Wake — This track highlights the band’s experimental approach with its unique structure and playful instrumentation, representing a fresh direction in their sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album showcases dynamic songwriting and strong production but has a somewhat loose cohesion due to its length.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features tracks that maintain a high energy level with intricate guitar riffs and rapid tempo changes.
Several songs incorporate abrupt shifts in dynamics, moving from soft, melodic sections to intense, chaotic passages.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo flow throughout
eclectic soundscapes for exploration
dynamic vocal performances engage
instrumental tracks for focus
melodic hooks invite sing-alongs

Maybe skip if you

prefer immediate gratification tracks
seek minimalistic sonic experiences

Where this album fits

Career context: Afterburner is Dance Gavin Dance's eighth studio album, released during a period of steady evolution following their 2018 album, Artificial Selection. The band continued to solidify their place in the post-hardcore scene with this release, showcasing their ability to innovate while maintaining core fan appeal.
Stylistic neighbors: The Fall of Troy· Chiodos· Emarosa

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Calentamiento global

The song shifts from personal introspection to broader social commentary about environmental issues.

This transition broadens the thematic scope of the album, using personal experiences as a lens to discuss collective challenges.