For Those That Wish to Exist
by Architects
  • Record Label: Epitaph
  • Release Date: Feb 26, 2021
User Score
6.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 80 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 51 out of 80
  2. Mixed: 14 out of 80
  3. Negative: 15 out of 80
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  1. DjentMatsson
    Feb 28, 2021
    5
    The biggest problem I have with this album is the artificial effects or filters placed on the vocals. At best they reduce the natural power and intensity of Sam’s voice, at worst they become distracting and take me out of the song completely. One of the things I most loved about Architects before was their emotional vocals and here it feels much harder to engage with them.

    There are    The biggest problem I have with this album is the artificial effects or filters placed on the vocals. At best they reduce the natural power and intensity of Sam’s voice, at worst they become distracting and take me out of the song completely. One of the things I most loved about Architects before was their emotional vocals and here it feels much harder to engage with them.

    There are some great riffs, verses and choruses on this album but the songwriting feels like it has taken multiple steps backwards from their earlier albums. Ideas are repeated throughout the songs and often aren’t developed or given additional layers to keep the songs engaging. Filler sections where nothing much happens seem to be common as well, this leads to most of the songs feeling inconsistent quality-wise or losing energy midway through.

    Special mention to Winston from Parkway Drive who delivers the most awesomely brutal introduction to a breakdown that I have ever heard in Impermanence. Shame that the breakdown itself was a bit basic and didn't go anywhere.    … Expand
  2. Giacomo9
    Feb 27, 2021
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Album troppo lungo, brani e ritornelli facilmente dimenticabili e sound davvero mixato in modo indecente… Expand
  3. Melce
    Feb 26, 2021
    5
    Quotation from Teal's review over at Sputnik:

    It’s hard to blame Architects for wanting to switch up their approach to music. The band has been delivering nasty guitar riffs, manic screaming, and crushing breakdowns for just shy of twenty years. With that being said, For Those That Wish to Exist disregards the idea of a subtle transition to a gentler sound and instead delivers fifteen    Quotation from Teal's review over at Sputnik:

    It’s hard to blame Architects for wanting to switch up their approach to music. The band has been delivering nasty guitar riffs, manic screaming, and crushing breakdowns for just shy of twenty years. With that being said, For Those That Wish to Exist disregards the idea of a subtle transition to a gentler sound and instead delivers fifteen songs daringly showcasing a more refined, restrained, and undoubtedly radio-friendly version of the band. Now the burden lies on the band’s fans to decide for themselves if experimentation featured here is genuine artistic expression, a premeditated shift for commercial viability, or a combination of both. Regardless, listeners of SiriusXM Octane are going to eat this up – and I think that’s the point.    … Expand
  4. Atomic87
    Feb 27, 2021
    2
    Whilst I'm all for bands innovating and coming up with new sounds, the "new" sound Architects have chosen for this album is so generic and copycat that this is a real disappointment. Coming off the back of technical masterpieces in their last few albums with a guitar focused sound, For Those That Wish To Exist strips all that away to provide a vocal driven album with a spattering of powerWhilst I'm all for bands innovating and coming up with new sounds, the "new" sound Architects have chosen for this album is so generic and copycat that this is a real disappointment. Coming off the back of technical masterpieces in their last few albums with a guitar focused sound, For Those That Wish To Exist strips all that away to provide a vocal driven album with a spattering of power chords and GCSE level breakdowns that I struggle to call "metal".… Expand
  5. hakametal
    Feb 27, 2021
    9
    One word: polarizing.

    This album is the equivalent to BMTH's Sempiteral or even more so Amo, you're either gonna be on board with the direction they're going in or you're gonna hold on to what the band made in the past. For me, I absolutely love it. If you're expecting All Our God's Have Abandoned Us, this is absolutely not it and you're going to be disappointed. However, if you're open    One word: polarizing.

    This album is the equivalent to BMTH's Sempiteral or even more so Amo, you're either gonna be on board with the direction they're going in or you're gonna hold on to what the band made in the past. For me, I absolutely love it. If you're expecting All Our God's Have Abandoned Us, this is absolutely not it and you're going to be disappointed. However, if you're open to a more melodic, electronica influenced album with all of the emotion still there, then give this album your attention.    … Expand
  6. dkajch
    Feb 26, 2021
    4
    Idk about this one tbh. While there's some songs on here that I enjoy a lot, a good majority of the album is just mediocre dime a dozen bring me the horizon-esque arena rock that just doesn't do it for me. What reviewers see in this album I have no idea
  7. JoseofCatarina
    Feb 26, 2021
    3
    I'll always be a diehard Architects fan. But, this album sounds way too much like a Bring Me The Horizon album and not enough like an Architects album. After hearing the first singles, I was reluctant, but still hopeful. I was hoping they could keep these radio rock songs, and still have room in the album for some hard hitting Architects songs, but I was mistaken. This album didn't have aI'll always be a diehard Architects fan. But, this album sounds way too much like a Bring Me The Horizon album and not enough like an Architects album. After hearing the first singles, I was reluctant, but still hopeful. I was hoping they could keep these radio rock songs, and still have room in the album for some hard hitting Architects songs, but I was mistaken. This album didn't have a single heavy song, or even an homage to the old Architects sound. There was a few songs with decent riffs like Goliath, or Animals, but ultimately the heaviness was overshadowed by soft and lackluster verses.

    This album ripped off of, BMTH and Starset (two of my favorite bands) and I still hate it. I wanted to hear Architects, but unfortunately I didn't get Architects. I got a watered down version of a once great band, trying to conform to a genre that doesn't fit them.

    I'll continue to support these guys, because their Holy Hell made such an impact in my life, but this album just ain't it.    … Expand
  8. ThunderCrumpet
    Feb 26, 2021
    3
    Created an account specifically for this, but man was this album disappointing for me. And it makes me sad that this is potentially going to get bundled in with The Here And Now as a miss, when that album was far superior to this in terms of changing it up.

    There's no duality of heavy, impactful and tasteful riffs to contrast with the easier going sound and melodies and it makes for a    Created an account specifically for this, but man was this album disappointing for me. And it makes me sad that this is potentially going to get bundled in with The Here And Now as a miss, when that album was far superior to this in terms of changing it up.

    There's no duality of heavy, impactful and tasteful riffs to contrast with the easier going sound and melodies and it makes for a very one dimensional sounding album. Which when the album is 15 songs and just shy of an hour long makes for some dull listening. I can honestly say I have no idea what reviewers are seeing in this album, after multiple listens I'm clutching at straws and I want to love it, but just can't hear what others are hearing!    … Expand
  9. Qwertyuiopasdfz
    Feb 27, 2021
    8
    It's a good album, they've tackled something pretty ambitious and not always got it right. There are probably few too many songs, but when it's good it's really good.
  10. dcg-vr
    Feb 27, 2021
    6
    "For Those That Wish to Exist" is a natural evolution for Architects, both musically, lyrically, and thematically. The first half of the record is undeniably some of their best works so far, demonstrating exceptional artistic prowess and a coherent picture of where the new evolution is heading towards. "Black Lungs", "Giving Blood", "Discourse Is Dead", "An Ordinary Extinction" and"For Those That Wish to Exist" is a natural evolution for Architects, both musically, lyrically, and thematically. The first half of the record is undeniably some of their best works so far, demonstrating exceptional artistic prowess and a coherent picture of where the new evolution is heading towards. "Black Lungs", "Giving Blood", "Discourse Is Dead", "An Ordinary Extinction" and "Impermanence" masterfully blend heavy guitar riffs, beautiful clean vocals, powerful screams, thunderous drumming, electronic sounds, and catchy melodies together. These tracks are perfect treats for a wide range of rock fans, from soft/pop rock to hard rock to metalcore. Metalheads have an opportunity to expand their musical experiences, while non-metal listeners have perfect gateway music to heavier genres. Meanwhile, "Dead Butterflies" is an elegant experimentation of clean vocals, slow ballad melodies, and orchestral background music. The track is very refreshing within the expansive catalog of Architects and it offers a clear vision of how the band might move forward with their deviation from metalcore. The first half of "For Those That Wish to Exist" deserves a 10/10 as it matches the quality and inventiveness of the band's previous works.

    However, the second half makes this album a very polarizing listening experience for me. From "Flight Without Feathers", the new direction of the band starts its downfall with uninspiring melody and mediocre instrumental background. "Demigod", "Meteor", "Goliath", and "Animals" are indistinguishable at times because of the generic songwriting that is uncharacteristic of Architects. These songs are ambitious endeavors to explore softer, more refined and more radio-friendly sounds, similar to predecessors Bring Me The Horizon, yet they fall short and do not leave any memorable impressions. The last track, "Dying Is Absolutely Safe", is the savior of the second half - a beautiful acoustic song that encapsulates the somber and apocalyptic undertone of the album. This album closer, like "Dead Butterflies", is a testament to the potentials of Architects's new direction and vision that can take advantage of cleaner vocals, softer melodies, and stripped-down instruments to the fullest.

    Despite the overall polarizing sound, Architects continue to be competent and insightful lyricists, tackling relevant contemporary issues like climate change and sociopolitical discourse with biblical references and imaginative metaphors. Thematically, the album fits perfectly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, environmental deterioration, and political instability in the past year.

    Taken altogether, whether you are a longtime Architects fan, a metalhead, a skeptic of post-2015 Bring Me The Horizon-esque sound, or a non-rock fan, this album worths a listen. The diverse experimentation of the record means that it has something to offer to any type of listener, so give it a try to see how this album matches with your music expectations and preferences. Regardless of what reviews you have read so far, listen and give your own verdict :)

    Highlights: Dead Butterflies, Impermanence, Discourse Is Dead, An Ordinary Extinction, Black Lungs
    Rating: 6.5/10 (round down to 6 because of the mixed reviews)    … Expand
  11. musicfan03
    Feb 26, 2021
    8
    For Those That Wish To Exist is a welcome step forward for Architects, a band that managed to constantly release consistent albums granted to leave a mark on the modern metal scene. FTTWTE means a new sound filled with sonic surprises all throughout without erasing what made the band beloved, THEIR MESSAGE.
    The album captures an important statement about the climate change our planet is    For Those That Wish To Exist is a welcome step forward for Architects, a band that managed to constantly release consistent albums granted to leave a mark on the modern metal scene. FTTWTE means a new sound filled with sonic surprises all throughout without erasing what made the band beloved, THEIR MESSAGE.
    The album captures an important statement about the climate change our planet is undergoing and the fate of humankind, everything accompanied by at times blasting guitar riffs, explosive drums and incredible vocals, but also, sometimes slower songs meant to play on your consciousness and feelings step into the fold. The lyrics written by Dan Searle often provide a cathartic feat to the run and help potentate the experience. The production sounds polished, balanced and clear, enhancing the auditory journey.
    All in all, For Those That Wish To Exist is a new musical approach for the metalcore titans, that turned out very well-executed and a leap of faith proved worth taking. From me, it's got a strong 8.    … Expand
  12. C3realkillah
    Feb 28, 2021
    3
    Finally listening to it and honestly I don't see what people see in this album. It's so generic and boring even when a song sounds promising it just turns into radio rock. Haven't had this much trouble getting through an album since i forced myself to listen to suicide silence self titled album.
  13. tomwalters
    Feb 26, 2021
    9
    Despite people calling it a ‘simple evolution of their sound’ and ‘generic’, this album does have something for everyone, and my god is it good. Bands write for themselves, and it shows on this album, it’s a natural evolution of their sound, not a forced one, which some might apply to their album Holy Hell after losing Tom, trying to recreate the sound that made them famous. What thisDespite people calling it a ‘simple evolution of their sound’ and ‘generic’, this album does have something for everyone, and my god is it good. Bands write for themselves, and it shows on this album, it’s a natural evolution of their sound, not a forced one, which some might apply to their album Holy Hell after losing Tom, trying to recreate the sound that made them famous. What this album is, is a new but amazing sound that will only extend that fan base further, and no, this isn’t a band falling to the ‘pop rock curse’, far from it if anything. Every track is catchy, with great meaningful lyrics and entertaining instrumentals and synths, with some impressive featuring singers as well, not to mention the heavier parts on certain sections of the album. Not everything has to have breakdowns every song, and this album certainly challenges that and in arenas, this album will slap. Tracks like Impermanence, Black Lungs, and Discourse Is Dead are your heavier tracks with that older sound seeping through, whereas tracks like Little Wonder, Meteor and Giving Blood are your more anthemic songs, but still just as punchy, overall it makes a pretty coherent listen that describes the climate crisis with some great poetic lyrics. If you are considering listening to this album, do it, it’s a great experience and deserves your attention for the 58 or so minutes that it runs for, because it will certainly capture it straight away with how well crafted it is.… Expand
  14. Venusaur
    Mar 3, 2021
    7
    Unsurprisingly this is quite a controversial album as it does see Architects dip their toes into a more pop-rock sound. Personally I wasn't against that transition, and the album definitively still has its heavier metalcore moments. My issue is a couple of the songs lack depth. While songs like "An Ordinary Extinction" and "Animals" showcase that Architects can successfully embrace a newUnsurprisingly this is quite a controversial album as it does see Architects dip their toes into a more pop-rock sound. Personally I wasn't against that transition, and the album definitively still has its heavier metalcore moments. My issue is a couple of the songs lack depth. While songs like "An Ordinary Extinction" and "Animals" showcase that Architects can successfully embrace a new radio-friendly sound without losing their edge, songs like "Flight without Feathers" and "Little Wonder" are just too simplistic and feel unnecessary on an album with an hour long runtime. "Discourse is dead", "Goliath" and "Impermanence" are three great tunes with the signature architects heaviness; the guest vocals from Simon Neil and Winston McCall go a long way in bolstering their respective songs, Neil in particular sounds awesome.

    Overall it's a good record with a lot of good pop-rock/metalcore songs, I just hope that they trim the fat on their next album.    … Expand
  15. adrenilinmatt
    Mar 21, 2021
    10
    Gotta love the people who clearly have only listened to architects last 2 albums and then think they have the knowledge of the band to call this latest effort “not architects” It’s called a back catalogue people. Listen to more than just holy hell and maybe you’ll see why this new album is ESSENTIAL architects. There’s maybe one or two songs I’d skip on this album. From a 15 track album.Gotta love the people who clearly have only listened to architects last 2 albums and then think they have the knowledge of the band to call this latest effort “not architects” It’s called a back catalogue people. Listen to more than just holy hell and maybe you’ll see why this new album is ESSENTIAL architects. There’s maybe one or two songs I’d skip on this album. From a 15 track album. More than I can say for ANY other bands release from the last year or two. But yeah, you architects experts out there listened to holy hell, so you know better. Sad lives you lead.… Expand
  16. bernitdown
    May 13, 2021
    0
    Architects has been my favorite band for almost a decade now, for a multitude of reasons. They've successfully mixed musical technicality, ridiculously heavy breakdowns, beautiful melodies, and lyrics that truly convey the emotion that inspired them. All of this is enough to make one of the greatest metal bands of all time, without even mentioning Sam's unparalleled vocals, the entireArchitects has been my favorite band for almost a decade now, for a multitude of reasons. They've successfully mixed musical technicality, ridiculously heavy breakdowns, beautiful melodies, and lyrics that truly convey the emotion that inspired them. All of this is enough to make one of the greatest metal bands of all time, without even mentioning Sam's unparalleled vocals, the entire band's fantastic stances on environmental and political issues, and the tragic story of loss, grief, and triumph behind their latest and greatest albums.

    I say all of this to assure the reader that this isn't a bitter, hateful review coming from a place of contempt, because I really wish I had something nice to say about this album. Unfortunately, from start to finish, FTWWTE is a collection of uninspired, painfully generic riffs and melodies that are utterly indistinguishable from radio/arena rock outfits. Sam's unique and irreplaceable vocals are, for some reason, pushed aside for whiny, whisper-like choruses and the occasional semi-aggressive yell; the intricate guitar work has been replaced by simple chug rhythms and power chords; the drums have been simplified to Rammstein-like kick-snare-kick-snare repetitions (e.g. Animals) and thoughtless pop-rock anthem beats; and the list goes on.

    I have given this album multiple play-throughs and found that there is genuinely nothing redeemable about any song on it. It's truly heartbreaking to watch one of the greatest bands of all time suddenly decide to "reinvent" themselves into something so generic and forgettable. A lot of fans are quick to jump to the defense of a band changing their sound by calling it "evolving" or something along those lines. Well, evolution doesn't imply progression or improvement; it's just a process of change in response to environmental pressures. So hopefully this review pushes these guys to "evolve" yet again - this time toward something which utilizes all of the high-level talent that this album almost gleefully buries.    … Expand
  17. cbrewerton
    Mar 2, 2021
    9
    Let me start off by saying that Holy Hell is my favorite metal album of all time, and I do not know if anyone, including Architects, can produce anything better. This album, however goes in a slightly different direction for the band musically. At first, I listened with my "Holy Hell Goggles" on and was disappointed. Then, I listened to it again, trying to see it simply for what it was andLet me start off by saying that Holy Hell is my favorite metal album of all time, and I do not know if anyone, including Architects, can produce anything better. This album, however goes in a slightly different direction for the band musically. At first, I listened with my "Holy Hell Goggles" on and was disappointed. Then, I listened to it again, trying to see it simply for what it was and I fell in love with this. Its more radio-friendly at times, but no matter how soft, heavy or cliché a song seems at first, the emotion is still there. Architects is great at forcing the listener to feel as well as listen and this album is no exception. Great work… Expand
  18. RMicky
    Mar 4, 2021
    10
    This album was amazing, I'm a new fan of Architects, and their softening up their sound makes them a much easier listen for me and many others while still keeping their metalcore roots. Album of the year in my opinion. The best songs being Dead Butterflies, An Ordinary Extinction, Animals, Goliath, and Dying is Absolutely Safe.
  19. KaptainKirk
    Mar 7, 2021
    10
    This album is a masterpiece. Each song compliments the next, creating a flow through the album. It has deep cuts and powerful lyrics that leave the listener craving the next song. Sam sings cleans and screams and absolutely nails both. The riffs, drums and vocals all work together in an extraordinary way, with backing strings to create an album you cannot miss.
  20. rywe19
    Feb 28, 2021
    9
    Architects, a metal outfit that has propelled the mathy, metalcore sound in its respective genre, takes the surprising turn to hard rock, although not deviating too far off the deep end. Many similar-sounding songs turn up in the form of Impermanence, Discourse is Dead, and Goliath, Other ones go in a hard rock sound, like Giving Blood, Little Wonder, and Meteor, and a couple of them areArchitects, a metal outfit that has propelled the mathy, metalcore sound in its respective genre, takes the surprising turn to hard rock, although not deviating too far off the deep end. Many similar-sounding songs turn up in the form of Impermanence, Discourse is Dead, and Goliath, Other ones go in a hard rock sound, like Giving Blood, Little Wonder, and Meteor, and a couple of them are completely out of the ordinary, like Dying is Absolutely Safe and Flight Without Feathers.

    But one thing that ties all of these songs together is the ambience and production, which completely make this record worth the 58-minute runtime. The lyricism is also another strong suit of the band. Themes about the end of the world, how we're continuously killing our planet, and how our leaders are doing nothing to fix anything are explored through the 15 tracks and Dan Searle essentialy gives his views through the voice of Sam Carter. "We'll all be hanging our heroes, praying for someone to save us" "We are the rust worshipping the rain" are some of the ideas expressed in the record.

    Give it a try and try to be open-minded about the sound change if you're a longtime fan of the band. I really think you'll get something out of it.    … Expand
  21. Rodenco
    Jan 2, 2022
    8
    This album may be the beginning of a new era in the band, and quite an interesting one I might add...
    The sound and texture experimentation that Architects has done in this album is certainly a really interesting one. The reinforcement of the orchestra emphasises the epicness that Architects were already heading to in “Holy Hell”, and it sure gives goosebumps in a lot of tracks. I love    This album may be the beginning of a new era in the band, and quite an interesting one I might add...
    The sound and texture experimentation that Architects has done in this album is certainly a really interesting one. The reinforcement of the orchestra emphasises the epicness that Architects were already heading to in “Holy Hell”, and it sure gives goosebumps in a lot of tracks. I love hearing Sam’s voice in clean singing (quite improved since Daybreaker) although in some tracks it becomes kind of a hit or miss.
    Lyrically this alum features some of my favourite lyrics from Sam. The emphasis on philosophical themes is a really nice progression from “Holy Hell”, returning even to religion or touching a little on climate change and the fate of humanity.
    That being said, it becomes obvious in most of the songs how new these concepts are for the band. Some songs suffer from overproduction or become overwhelming at some moments, making the whole mix bland or weird.

    Overall, a really good album and I cannot wait so listen to the next evolution of the Architects sound    … Expand
  22. DOOMER_2K2
    Mar 4, 2021
    7
    It's different but it has a good couple of bangers on it. A solid seven from me.
  23. MetaWitness
    Mar 12, 2021
    7
    What Is The Message of the Album:
    What we see here is an individual who once was politically charged and an activist who is now tired and weary of fighting. Between the inevitable destruction of climate change and the hostile divisiveness of politics, he is left hopeless. This seems to be a clarion call to others that feel the same, like he is trying to find strength in those who are also    What Is The Message of the Album:
    What we see here is an individual who once was politically charged and an activist who is now tired and weary of fighting. Between the inevitable destruction of climate change and the hostile divisiveness of politics, he is left hopeless. This seems to be a clarion call to others that feel the same, like he is trying to find strength in those who are also weary of this disheartening social environment. This isn't so much a wake up call, it's more like an observation of the social ills we are all experiencing, and he is acknowledging the weariness of it all.

    What I Liked About The Album:
    This album is a culmination of where Architects has been heading for awhile and it is welcomed. It is a nice listen and kept me captivated throughout.

    What I Disliked About The Album:
    The melodic aspect throughout the album in many places seems forced, trying to appeal to a more radio friendly audience. The lyrics of some of the songs are too abstract, it does not reveal enough for the listener to go on.

    Favorite Songs:
    - "Dead Butterflies"
    - "Black Lungs"
    - "Discourse Is Dead"
    - "Flight Without Feathers"

    Least Favorite Songs:
    - "Demi God"
    - "An Ordinary Extinction"
    - "Animals"    … Expand
  24. drkswm
    Mar 16, 2021
    5
    Trying to walk in the path of BMTH to fame but without any substance. A lot of the lyrics border on cringe while recycling generic lines. Tom Searle was the genius behind the Architects and will always be missed. I hope this "mainstream metalcore" ceases to exist.
  25. ReckT
    Mar 21, 2021
    8
    No, no es mejor que holy hell, se asemeja en algunos aspectos al ultimo disco de BMTH logrando una muy buena calidad con algunos altibajos pero siendo en esencia un notable disco que no será para todo el mundo
  26. Tjblaskowics
    Apr 25, 2021
    10
    I absolutely love this album, it perfectly illustrates talent and unity shared between talented musicians,every segment is crafted with, a cacophony of catchy hooks, choruses, it seems it has everything from metal to edm sounds, I have a great appreciation for music that isn't predictable and keeps you guessing whilst being very enjoyable, it hits every mark, scratches every itch, it's notI absolutely love this album, it perfectly illustrates talent and unity shared between talented musicians,every segment is crafted with, a cacophony of catchy hooks, choruses, it seems it has everything from metal to edm sounds, I have a great appreciation for music that isn't predictable and keeps you guessing whilst being very enjoyable, it hits every mark, scratches every itch, it's not too heavy and it's by noe means too soft, just a very cool album different, even veers on poppy a little bit, then again that seems to be prevalent these days in many genres and not for just "pop" music as there really isn't genre these days, All of these things said, 5000 characters aren't enough to discribe this soft assault on the senses whilst still being so utterly enjoyable, after all isn't that music was created for?… Expand
  27. a_man_is_no_1
    Oct 3, 2021
    10
    Perfect metal core album, great instruments especially the drums and bass, sam voice always very crisp.
    The tracks that features mike kerr from royal blood and simon neil from biffy clyro is must hear, alongside with its single "animals".
  28. Peachboiii
    Aug 26, 2022
    5
    This mediocrity at its best and its something one would expect by bands like Nickelback or FFDP. Pretty damn near being unforgettable dad rock. Lacking soul and feels overall pretty generic. Sad to see this is coming from Architects.
  29. Grumite
    Jan 18, 2022
    10
    Top to bottom, For Those That Wish to Exist is one of the best albums I’ve ever heard in my 15+ years of enjoying Rock/Metal/Metalcore music. Technical instrumentation, deep thought provoking lyrics, and such an organically original sound. Vocalist Sam Carter has an abrasive and aggressive tone that transcends to a beautifully soft whimsical sound on a selection of songs. Guitarists JoshTop to bottom, For Those That Wish to Exist is one of the best albums I’ve ever heard in my 15+ years of enjoying Rock/Metal/Metalcore music. Technical instrumentation, deep thought provoking lyrics, and such an organically original sound. Vocalist Sam Carter has an abrasive and aggressive tone that transcends to a beautifully soft whimsical sound on a selection of songs. Guitarists Josh Middleton and Adam Christianson have their tools of sound tuned low for a room filling deep tone, while Drummer Dan Searle drives the album from front to back. Searle’s technical and hard hitting drumming style is in my opinion what puts this album above most all others in the “Pandemic Era”. A truly flawless and masterful use of the kit. Tracks such as Black Lungs, Discourse is Dead, and Impermanence rip your head off in the best way possible, while other entries such as Dead Butterflies and Flight Without Feathers put your mind in a trance of musical bliss. At 58 minutes, this is a long album by today’s standards. That is something I enjoy, as it gives the listener more content to remember and hold onto. I do not have enough great things to say about this record, and I cannot wait to hear what this band has in store for listeners next!… Expand

Awards & Rankings

46
#46 Most Discussed Album of 2021

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 10 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 10
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 10
  3. Negative: 0 out of 10
  1. Classic Rock Magazine
    Mar 2, 2021
    70
    The Brighton metalcore band turn their attention both outwards and inwards: ferocious, barely contained rage directed towards global dysfunction and the looming, ever-increasing threats to mankind and the notion of personal responsibility, taking control of destiny. [Apr 2021, p.86]
  2. The Guardian
    Feb 26, 2021
    60
    For Those Who Wish to Exist proves Architects’ ability to oscillate between thoughtful, interesting, finely wrought compositions and gleefully hulking exercises in metal obviousness is still intact. The fact it often feels stultifying regardless proves turning climate anxiety into gratifying entertainment is a very difficult art to master.
    Read full review
  3. Sputnikmusic
    Feb 26, 2021
    60
    Essentially, this is an album aimed at everyone – which could explain why it’s so long and inconsistent – and while For Those That Wish to Exist is far from perfect, I do feel everyone can take some good things away from it.
    Read full review
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