What makes Faster by Within Temptation notable?

The single 'Faster' achieved commercial success by charting in several European countries, including reaching number 2 in the Netherlands. Its energetic sound and production helped solidify Within Temptation's status in the alternative metal scene, appealing to both longtime fans and new listeners alike. Released as part of Within Temptation's evolution, 'Faster' marked a transitional phase for the band following their acclaimed album 'The Heart of Everything' (2007). This single showcases their shift towards a more aggressive sound while retaining their signature orchestral influences, setting the stage for their later works.

How many songs are on Faster?

Faster has 2 tracks, running approximately 8 minutes.

Faster

Within Temptation · 2011

8 min · 2 tracks · alternative metal

A powerful blend of symphonic elements and driving metal rhythms, embodying the urgency and intensity of its themes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Faster — The title track encapsulates the album's high-energy essence, combining rapid-fire lyrics with a powerful instrumental backdrop that drives the narrative forward.
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Where Is the Edge — This track offers a more introspective contrast to 'Faster', featuring haunting melodies that showcase Sharon den Adel's ethereal vocals layered over intricate instrumentals.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The single presents a blend of aggressive and melodic elements, reflecting Within Temptation's evolving sound.

What we noticed

The title track 'Faster' features a rapid tempo and aggressive guitar riffs, creating an urgent atmosphere throughout its duration.

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

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Achieved commercial success and solidified the band's recognition in Europe.
Themes: aggressive urgency· gothic resilience· introspective darkness
Career context: Released as part of Within Temptation's evolution, 'Faster' marked a transitional phase for the band following their acclaimed album 'The Heart of Everything' (2007). This single showcases their shift towards a more aggressive sound while retaining their signature orchestral influences, setting the stage for their later works.
Stylistic neighbors: Nightwish· Epica· Lacuna Coil