The Art of Drowning cover

The Art of Drowning

AFI · 2000

43 min · 15 tracks · alternative rock · gothic rock

A haunting blend of gothic melodies and punk energy, infused with introspective lyrics and atmospheric instrumentation.

Why this album works

This album is notable for its critical acclaim and commercial performance, reaching number 174 on the Billboard 200 chart. It also served as a pivotal influence in the early 2000s emo and post-hardcore scenes, impacting subsequent bands and shaping the genre's evolution.
Career context
Released on September 19, 2000, 'The Art of Drowning' marked AFI's first album with a significant mainstream breakthrough after their previous work, 'Black Sails in the Sunset.' At this point in their career, AFI was transitioning from a hardcore punk sound to a more polished alternative rock aesthetic, appealing to a broader audience while retaining their dark lyrical themes.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Initiation 0:41
  • 2 The Lost Souls 2:44
  • 3 The Nephilim 2:37
  • 4 Ever and a Day Standout 3:08
  • 5 Sacrifice Theory Standout 2:00
  • 6 Of Greetings and Goodbyes 3:06
  • 7 Smile 1:33
  • 8 A Story at Three 3:55
  • 9 Dream of Waking 3:01
  • 10 The Days of the Phoenix Standout 3:29
  • 11 Catch a Hot One 2:56
  • 12 Wester 3:03
  • 13 6 to 8 4:23
  • 14 The Despair Factor 3:56
  • 15 Morningstar 3:19

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata