Maximalism cover

Released 10 years ago this October

Maximalism

Amaranthe · 2016

39 min · 12 tracks · metalcore

An electrifying fusion of melodic death metal and pop hooks that creates an exhilarating sonic landscape.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Boomerang — This track exemplifies the album's vibrant energy with its catchy chorus and dynamic arrangement, making it an anthem of resilience and determination.
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    Limitless — With its powerful lyrics about overcoming obstacles, this track combines an infectious melody with intricate instrumentation that encapsulates Amaranthe's signature sound.
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    Fury — Fury stands out for its aggressive riffs and intense vocal delivery, embodying the heavier side of the band's musical palette while maintaining melodic hooks.
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    Fireball — This high-energy track features a blend of rapid-fire lyrics and pulsating rhythms, showcasing Amaranthe's ability to create danceable yet heavy music.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100
Treeline
Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and production but has moments that disrupt its flow.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a high-energy track that sets a fast tempo, maintaining this pace through the first half before introducing slower, more melodic elements in the latter tracks.
  • Vocals are shared among three singers, alternating between harsh and clean styles, which creates a dynamic interplay throughout the record.
  • Several tracks feature abrupt transitions between sections, blending genres like metalcore and pop seamlessly, which keeps the listener engaged.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

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 mid-tempo party vibes
  • exhilarating energetic workout soundtrack
  • sing-along friendly anthemic choruses
  • consistent flow for driving energy

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer slow, reflective music
  • seek deep, intricate compositions

Where this album fits

Career context
When 'Maximalism' was released in 2016, Amaranthe was establishing themselves as prominent players in the metal scene following their previous album, 'Threshold', which had broadened their appeal. This release marked their fourth studio album, solidifying their signature sound characterized by blending metal with electronic elements and catchy choruses.
Stylistic neighbors
Battle Beast· Kamelot· Within Temptation

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Limitless

    The verses build up to a soaring chorus that emphasizes breaking free from constraints, utilizing vivid imagery of liberation.

    The shift from grounded verses to an uplifting chorus amplifies the song's message of empowerment, transforming personal struggles into triumphant declarations.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Maximize 3:10
  • 2 Boomerang 3:22
  • 3 That Song 3:13
  • 4 21 3:05
  • 5 On the Rocks 3:09
  • 6 Limitless 3:10
  • 7 Fury 2:58
  • 8 Faster 3:25
  • 9 Break Down and Cry 3:56
  • 10 Supersonic 3:17
  • 11 Fireball 3:14
  • 12 Endlessly 3:43

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata