Along the Shadow cover

Released 10 years ago

Along the Shadow

Saosin · 2016

39 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A dynamic blend of post-hardcore intensity and melodic introspection, driven by intricate guitar work and emotive vocals.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    The Silver String — Opening with an atmospheric intro that builds into powerful riffs, this track encapsulates the album's balance of melody and intensity, setting the tone for the entire record.
  • →
    Count Back From TEN — This track features an infectious chorus that highlights Green's vocal prowess, blending catchy melodies with poignant lyrics about self-reflection and urgency.
  • →
    Old Friends — A nostalgic exploration of past relationships, this song showcases lyrical vulnerability paired with a soaring instrumental arrangement, reflecting the band's growth over the years.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and production, balancing intensity with melody, though it doesn't fully break new ground.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature aggressive guitar riffs and rapid tempos, while the fourth track introduces a slower, more introspective tone.
  • Several tracks incorporate intricate guitar harmonies that build tension before resolving into melodic choruses.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

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 reflective moments
  • introspective lyrics with emotional depth
  • consistent flow for focused listening
  • atmospheric melodies for thoughtful engagement

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification tracks
  • prefer standalone singles over cohesion

Where this album fits

Career context
Along the Shadow is Saosin's third studio album and their first release since reuniting with original vocalist Anthony Green. Following a lengthy hiatus and lineup changes, this album marked a significant return to form for the band in 2016, showcasing their evolution while staying rooted in their iconic sound.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Racing Toward a Red Light

    The shift in perspective halfway through the song introduces a sense of urgency as it confronts personal fears directly.

    This moment marks a departure in narrative voice, creating an intimate connection that invites listeners to engage with their own vulnerabilities.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 The Silver String 3:57
  • 2 Ideology Is Theft 3:33
  • 3 Racing Toward a Red Light 2:54
  • 4 Second Guesses 4:08
  • 5 Count Back From TEN 3:06
  • 6 The Stutter Says a Lot 2:53
  • 7 Sore Distress 3:59
  • 8 The Secret Meaning of Freedom 2:44
  • 9 Old Friends 4:14
  • 10 Illusion & Control 3:47
  • 11 Control and the Urge to Pray 4:16

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata