What makes Holding a Wolf by the Ears by From Autumn to Ashes notable?

This album marked a significant moment for From Autumn to Ashes as it debuted at number 73 on the Billboard 200, indicating a strong commercial presence. Additionally, the band's blend of genres helped influence the burgeoning post-hardcore movement in the mid-2000s, setting a precedent for future acts in the genre. Holding a Wolf by the Ears is From Autumn to Ashes' fourth studio album, released in 2007 after their previous release, Abandon Your Friends. At this point, the band was solidifying their identity within the post-hardcore scene while navigating lineup changes and evolving musical styles. The album reflects their ongoing experimentation with melody and aggression, showcasing a maturity in songwriting.

How many songs are on Holding a Wolf by the Ears?

Holding a Wolf by the Ears has 12 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Holding a Wolf by the Ears

From Autumn to Ashes · 2007

39 min · 12 tracks · hardcore punk

A frenetic blend of hardcore punk and post-hardcore that merges raw energy with introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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On the Offensive — This track encapsulates the album's aggressive sound while delivering sharp social commentary through its urgent lyrics and driving instrumentals.
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Everything I Need — Balancing vulnerability with intensity, this song showcases melodic elements that highlight the band’s growth and willingness to explore emotional depth.
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Delusions of Grandeur — The interplay between chaotic riffs and introspective lyrics makes this track a standout representation of the band's dynamic range.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The album blends frenetic energy with introspective lyrics, showcasing strong compositional elements and distinctiveness within its genre.

What we noticed

The first three tracks maintain a relentless pace, characterized by aggressive guitar riffs and rapid drumming.
Several songs feature abrupt tempo changes, shifting from fast-paced sections to slower, more melodic interludes.
The lyrics often juxtapose personal introspection with chaotic imagery, creating a contrast that enhances the emotional weight of the music.

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

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Everything I Need

The chorus shifts from a personal plea to a collective cry for understanding amidst confusion.

This transition not only elevates the emotional stakes but also connects personal struggles to broader societal issues.

Tracklist

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

1 Deth Kult Social Club 2:47
2 On the Offensive 3:42
3 Recounts and Recollections 3:02
4 Daylight Slaving 3:38
5 Delusions of Grandeur 2:58
6 Sensory Deprivation Adventure 2:53
7 Everything I Need 3:49
8 Underpass Tutorial 3:20
9 Love It or Left It 3:13
10 Travel 3:01
11 A Goat in Sheep's Rosary 3:47
12 Pioneers 3:42

What to play next

Listen next

Live at Looney Tunes

2008

Go back to

Abandon Your Friends

2005

Full From Autumn to Ashes discography Artists like From Autumn to Ashes

hardcore punk post-hardcore

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata