What makes Retrograde by Crown the Empire notable?

'Retrograde' debuted at number 10 on the Billboard Hard Rock Albums chart and received positive reviews for its sonic evolution. The album marked a significant step in the band's trajectory, as it showcased their ability to blend aggressive instrumentation with more introspective lyrical content, which resonated with both fans and critics alike. Released on July 22, 2016, 'Retrograde' is Crown the Empire's third studio album, following their 2014 release, 'Shadowlands'. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their sound while exploring deeper lyrical themes, reflecting a maturation from their earlier work.