Invictus
Heaven Shall Burn · 2010
47 min · 13 tracks · metalcore
A relentless fusion of melodic death metal and metalcore that intertwines aggression with poignant lyricism.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Omen — This track opens the album with a powerful riff and sets a tone of urgency and foreboding that permeates the record. Its intricate guitar work alongside aggressive vocals exemplifies the band's signature sound.
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I Was I Am I Shall Be — This song stands out for its introspective lyrics exploring identity and existence, alongside dynamic shifts between melodic passages and brutal breakdowns. It encapsulates the thematic depth present throughout Invictus.
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Buried in Forgotten Grounds — A standout track that combines haunting melodies with fierce instrumentation, it delves into themes of loss and remembrance. The emotional weight paired with heavy riffs makes it a pivotal moment on the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album balances aggression and melody effectively, showcasing strong craft and composition within its genre.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a brief instrumental intro that sets a dark tone before launching into aggressive riffs and rapid drumming.
- Tracks frequently alternate between melodic choruses and intense breakdowns, creating a dynamic contrast throughout the record.
- The final track serves as an extended outro, gradually fading out with atmospheric elements that provide a sense of closure.
- 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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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
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
- dynamic progression with resolution
- wave-like pacing for engagement
- cathartic release through intensity
- thought-provoking themes to ponder
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer standalone tracks only
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on January 1, 2010, Invictus marks Heaven Shall Burn's fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed Iconoclast (Part 1: The Resistance). At this stage in their career, the band had solidified their presence in the metal scene, known for their politically charged themes and a blend of melodic elements with hardcore influences.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Caliban· As I Lay Dying· Killswitch Engage
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Given in Death
The climactic bridge where the lyrics shift from despair to resolve channels an intense emotional journey. This moment contrasts vulnerability with a fierce de…
The transition in lyrical focus creates a powerful sense of empowerment, making it a defining point in the narrative arc of the song.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Intro 1:09
- 2 The Omen 3:38
- 3 Combat 3:48
- 4 I Was I Am I Shall Be 3:57
- 5 Buried in Forgotten Grounds 5:33
- 6 Sevastopol 4:03
- 7 The Lie You Bleed For 4:42
- 8 Return to Sanity 3:20
- 9 Against Bridge Burners 3:29
- 10 Of Forsaken Poets 4:32
- 11 Nowhere 2:28
- 12 Given in Death 5:11
- 13 Outro 1:46
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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