...In Shallow Seas We Sail
Emery · 2009
41 min · 13 tracks · hardcore punk
A visceral blend of post-hardcore energy and introspective lyrics, underscored by dynamic instrumentation and emotional vocal delivery.
Top tracks — play these first
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Curbside Goodbye — This track captures the essence of emotional turmoil and transition, combining powerful riffs with reflective lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners grappling with change.
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Churches and Serial Killers — The song provides a sharp critique of societal norms juxtaposed with haunting melodies, making it a standout example of Emery's lyrical prowess and thematic depth.
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In Shallow Seas We Sail — The title track encapsulates the album's exploration of vulnerability and hope, featuring an intense build-up that mirrors the struggle depicted in its lyrics.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album balances aggressive instrumentation with introspective lyrics, showcasing strong songwriting and production quality.
What we noticed
- The first half of the album features aggressive guitar riffs and fast tempos, while the second half shifts to more melodic and introspective arrangements.
- Vocal duties are shared between two singers, creating a dynamic interplay that enhances the emotional weight of the lyrics.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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 emotional crescendos throughout
- introspective reflections on turmoil
- mid-tempo journey with urgency
- brief tracks for quick engagement
Maybe skip if you
- prefer instant gratification tracks
- seek purely upbeat experiences
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 2009, ...In Shallow Seas We Sail is Emery's fourth studio album, following their 2007 release, I'm Only a Man. The band was transitioning into a more mature sound while continuing to explore themes of faith and personal struggle within the hardcore punk genre. This album marked a significant step in refining their musical identity and lyrical depth.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Underoath· The Devil Wears Prada· Haste the Day
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Dear Death, Part 1
The opening section confronts mortality directly, invoking stark imagery that challenges the listener to reflect on life's fleeting nature.
By addressing death so intimately at the album's conclusion, the writing shifts the tone dramatically, compelling listeners to face themes of loss and existential reflection.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Cutthroat Collapse 3:24
- 2 Curbside Goodbye 4:05
- 3 Inside Our Skin 3:14
- 4 Churches and Serial Killers 2:55
- 5 Butcher's Mouth 3:14
- 6 In Shallow Seas We Sail 3:38
- 7 The Poor and the Prevalent 3:05
- 8 The Smile, the Face 2:41
- 9 A Sin to Hold on To 2:48
- 10 Piggy Bank Lies 3:22
- 11 Edge of the World 3:52
- 12 Dear Death, Part 1 1:41
- 13 Dear Death, Part 2 3:02
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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