About this album
Sound:
"A tumultuous blend of post-hardcore melodies and introspective lyrics wrapped in raw, emotional energy."
Where they were
Released in 2009, ...In Shallow Seas We Sail marked Emery's fourth studio album and their first since parting ways with their previous label, solidifying their independent approach. This album showcased a matured sound, reflecting the band's evolution from their earlier work while maintaining their core identity within the post-hardcore scene.
Why it matters
This album received positive critical acclaim, landing on various year-end lists and demonstrating Emery's ability to blend heavy instrumentation with poignant storytelling. It helped cement their status in the post-hardcore genre, influencing emerging bands and drawing attention for its lyrical depth and musical complexity.
Essential tracks
- "Cutthroat Collapse" — This opening track encapsulates the album’s intense energy with its aggressive riffs and urgent vocals, setting the stage for the themes of struggle and confrontation that permeate the record.
- "In Shallow Seas We Sail" — The title track combines haunting melodies with reflective lyrics, showcasing Emery's signature sound while delving into personal and existential themes.
- "Dear Death, Part 1" — This brief yet impactful interlude serves as a poignant transition within the album, highlighting the emotional weight of mortality and introspection that defines much of this work.
- "Churches and Serial Killers" — This track stands out for its juxtaposition of heavy instrumentation with incisive commentary on faith and morality, illustrating Emery's knack for blending personal narrative with broader social critiques.
Release Date
January 1, 2009
Tracklist
- 1 Cutthroat Collapse 3:24
- 2 Curbside Goodbye 4:05
- 3 Inside Our Skin 3:14
- 4 Churches and Serial Killers 2:55
- 5 Butcher's Mouth 3:14
- 6 In Shallow Seas We Sail 3:38
- 7 The Poor and the Prevalent 3:05
- 8 The Smile, the Face 2:41
- 9 A Sin to Hold on To 2:48
- 10 Piggy Bank Lies 3:22
- 11 Edge of the World 3:52
- 12 Dear Death, Part 1 1:41
- 13 Dear Death, Part 2 3:02
