What makes IV by To/Die/For notable?

IV contributed to the band's legacy as a strong contender in the gothic metal genre, receiving positive reviews from critics and fans alike. It helped them maintain a presence in the European metal scene during the mid-2000s, highlighted by notable tracks that resonated with audiences and added to their discography's depth. Released in 2005, IV was To/Die/For's fourth studio album, following their 2003 release, Wounds Wide Open. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their identity within the gothic metal scene while trying to expand their international reach. The album marked a continuation of their signature sound, blending dark romanticism with heavier instrumentation.

IV works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, melancholic reflective moments and gradual builds and payoffs.

How many songs are on IV?

IV has 10 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

IV

To/Die/For · 2005

41 min · 10 tracks · gothic metal

Melancholic melodies intertwine with heavy riffs, creating a haunting atmosphere that defines gothic metal's emotional depth.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Autumn Forever — Opening the album, this track encapsulates the blend of melancholy and heaviness that characterizes To/Die/For's sound, setting the tone for what follows.
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This World Is Made for Me — This song showcases a more accessible side of the band while maintaining their dark themes, featuring catchy hooks alongside introspective lyrics.
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Fragmented — The emotional weight of this track is intensified by its lyrical content and atmospheric instrumentation, making it a standout moment on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album effectively blends heavy riffs with melodic elements, characteristic of gothic metal, but lacks standout tracks for lasting impact.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features a consistent use of heavy guitar riffs paired with melancholic melodies, establishing a dark atmosphere.
Several tracks incorporate orchestral elements, such as strings and choirs, enhancing the gothic feel without overshadowing the metal foundation.

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

Influence 3/10

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, consistent energy levels
melancholic reflective moments
gradual builds and payoffs
immersive listening sessions

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2005, IV was To/Die/For's fourth studio album, following their 2003 release, Wounds Wide Open. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their identity within the gothic metal scene while trying to expand their international reach. The album marked a continuation of their signature sound, blending dark romanticism with heavier instrumentation.
Stylistic neighbors: Sentenced· Paradise Lost· The Sins of Thy Beloved

Tracklist

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

1 Autumn Forever 4:31
2 This World Is Made for Me 3:43
3 Lies (For Fools) 4:04
4 New Year's Day 5:04
5 Chaotic Me 3:21
6 Little Deaths 4:12
7 No Turning Back 4:17
8 Fragmented 4:01
9 Endlessly 5:29
10 Last Breath 2:36

What to play next

Listen next

Wounds Wide Open

2006

Go back to

Jaded

2003

Full To/Die/For discography Artists like To/Die/For

gothic metal

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata