What makes In the Wake of Determination by Story of the Year notable?

The album debuted at number 24 on the Billboard 200, showcasing its commercial viability within the post-hardcore scene. It received notable attention for its lyrical depth and energetic sound, solidifying Story of the Year as key players in early 2000s punk rock. In the Wake of Determination marked Story of the Year's second studio album, following their successful debut Page Avenue in 2003. By 2005, the band was navigating the pressures of mainstream success while maintaining their hardcore punk roots.

Who is In the Wake of Determination for?

In the Wake of Determination works well if you're into steady mid-tempo engagement, cathartic bursts of energy and socially charged lyrical themes.

How many songs are on In the Wake of Determination?

In the Wake of Determination has 13 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

In the Wake of Determination

Story of the Year · 2005

47 min · 13 tracks · hardcore punk

A raw blend of melodic hardcore and punk energy, driven by anthemic choruses and introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Our Time Is Now — This track captures the band's signature blend of urgency and melody, with empowering lyrics that resonate with listeners seeking motivation and change.
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Wake Up the Voiceless — A standout anthem that tackles themes of social justice, this song exemplifies the band's ability to merge poignant messages with heavy instrumentation.
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Taste the Poison — With its intense riffs and introspective lyrics, this track showcases the band's emotional range, addressing personal struggles amidst a backdrop of energetic sound.
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Five Against the World — This song combines aggressive instrumentals with a reflective narrative, highlighting the band's knack for storytelling within their high-octane delivery.

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 album showcases energetic compositions but lacks consistent cohesion across its length.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature driving tempos and anthemic choruses, while the fourth track introduces a slower, more introspective tone.
Several tracks incorporate dual vocal lines, alternating between melodic singing and aggressive shouting, enhancing the emotional intensity.
The album closes with two contrasting tracks; one is a reflective ballad and the other a heavy, chaotic piece that leaves the listener unsettled.

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

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo engagement
cathartic bursts of energy
socially charged lyrical themes
melodic hooks with intensity

Maybe skip if you

prefer slow, sounds
seek standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

Career context: In the Wake of Determination marked Story of the Year's second studio album, following their successful debut Page Avenue in 2003. By 2005, the band was navigating the pressures of mainstream success while maintaining their hardcore punk roots.
Stylistic neighbors: Finch· The Used· Taking Back Sunday