Hunters and Prey cover

Hunters and Prey

Angra · 2002

38 min · 8 tracks · progressive metal

A blend of progressive metal and emotional depth, merging intricate melodies with powerful vocals and dynamic arrangements.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Live and Learn Start here — This opening track encapsulates Angra's signature style, blending intricate guitar work with soaring vocals and thoughtful lyrics about personal growth.
  • →
    Bleeding Heart — The emotional weight of this song is delivered through its haunting melodies and relatable themes of love and loss, showcasing the band's lyrical depth.
  • →
    Hunters and Prey — As the title track, it highlights the band’s knack for combining heavy riffs with orchestral elements, reflecting on existential struggles with a dramatic flair.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases intricate compositions and varied dynamics but lacks a strong cohesive flow.

What we noticed

  • The acoustic versions of 'Rebirth' and 'Heroes of Sand' provide a stark contrast to the heavier tracks, introducing a softer dynamic midway through the EP.
  • Vocals alternate between soaring melodies and aggressive passages, with harmonies layered throughout to enhance emotional impact.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

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 pacing with dynamic peaks
  • intricate rhythms for attentive listening
  • emotional vocal performances throughout
  • engaging acoustic interpretations present

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification tracks
  • prefer short standalone songs

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This EP marked Angra's return and helped solidify their presence post-lineup changes.
Career context
Released on June 24, 2002, 'Hunters and Prey' marked Angra's return after a tumultuous period that included lineup changes and the departure of vocalist André Matos. This album showcased the band's ability to innovate within the progressive metal genre while maintaining their signature sound, positioning them for a resurgence in the early 2000s.
Stylistic neighbors
Symphony X· Dream Theater· Kamelot

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Live and Learn

    The verse shifts from introspective reflections to an uplifting chorus that emphasizes resilience and self-discovery.

    This transition not only enhances the song’s emotional arc but also invites listeners into a journey of personal empowerment.

Tracklist

  • 1 Live and Learn Start here 4:12
  • 2 Bleeding Heart 4:04
  • 3 Hunters and Prey 6:29
  • 4 Eyes of Christ 4:15
  • 5 Rebirth (acoustic edit version) 3:35
  • 6 Heroes of Sand (acoustic version) 3:50
  • 7 Mama 5:19
  • 8 Caça e caçador (Hunters and Prey Portuguese version) 6:28

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata