What makes Selves We Cannot Forgive by Black Crown Initiate notable?

The album received positive critical acclaim, particularly for its ambitious songwriting and emotional depth, which helped it to secure a devoted fanbase. It also positioned Black Crown Initiate as an influential act within the progressive metal genre, inspiring a new wave of bands exploring similar thematic and musical territories. Released in 2016, Selves We Cannot Forgive is Black Crown Initiate's second full-length album, following their debut, The Wreckage of Stars. This album marks a significant step in their evolution, showcasing a refined sound that blends aggressive instrumentation with melodic elements, solidifying their presence in the modern metal scene.

How many songs are on Selves We Cannot Forgive?

Selves We Cannot Forgive has 8 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

Selves We Cannot Forgive

Black Crown Initiate

51 min · 8 tracks

A haunting blend of progressive metal intricacies and emotionally charged melodies that traverse themes of loss and redemption.

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Top tracks — play these first

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For Red Clouds — This opening track sets the tone with its atmospheric introspection and complex rhythmic patterns, illustrating the band's technical prowess and emotional narrative.
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Selves We Cannot Forgive — The title track encapsulates the album's core themes of regret and self-reflection, featuring powerful vocal dynamics that highlight the lyrical intensity.
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Sorrowpsalm — This track masterfully intertwines heavy instrumentation with vulnerable lyrics, demonstrating the band's ability to balance aggression with melodic sensitivity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions and strong production, but its appeal may be limited to fans of the genre.

What we noticed

Vocals alternate between clean singing and harsh growls, creating a dynamic contrast that enhances the emotional weight of the lyrics.
Several tracks incorporate atmospheric interludes that serve as transitions, allowing for a seamless flow between heavier sections and more melodic passages.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 For Red Clouds 6:48
2 Sorrowpsalm 6:30
3 Again 5:39
4 Belie the Machine 8:59
5 Selves We Cannot Forgive 5:18
6 Transmit to Disconnect 6:28
7 Matriarch 7:21
8 Vicious Lives 4:25

What to play next

Listen next

Song of The Crippled Bull

2013

Full Black Crown Initiate discography Artists like Black Crown Initiate

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata