About this album

Sound: "A punishing blend of sludgy riffs and atmospheric interludes that captures a sense of impending doom."

Where they were

Released on January 1, 2008, 'Continent' marked The Acacia Strain's fifth studio album and a notable progression in their sound following the critically acclaimed 'The Dead Walk'. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their identity within the metalcore scene while experimenting with darker themes and heavier instrumentation.

Why it matters

This album debuted at number 94 on the Billboard 200 chart, showcasing the band's growing popularity. Its raw sound and thematic depth contributed to the evolution of heavy music in the late 2000s, influencing subsequent bands in the genre with its atmospheric heaviness and lyrical content centered around existential dread.

Essential tracks

  • "Dr. Doom" — With its relentless pace and intense breakdowns, 'Dr. Doom' epitomizes the band's signature blend of aggression and atmosphere, making it a fan favorite.
  • "Cthulhu" — 'Cthulhu' delves into cosmic horror with crushing riffs that mirror the dark themes of Lovecraftian lore, representing the album's thematic core.
  • "The Behemoth" — Closing the album, 'The Behemoth' showcases a complex structure that balances heavy instrumentals with haunting melodies, leaving a lasting impression.

Release Date

January 1, 2008

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Skynet 4:22
  2. 2 Seaward 4:15
  3. 3 Dr. Doom 2:26
  4. 4 Forget-Me-Now 2:43
  5. 5 Cthulhu 3:27
  6. 6 Baby Buster 4:18
  7. 7 Balboa Towers 4:36
  8. 8 JFC 2:56
  9. 9 Kräken 2:41
  10. 10 The Combine 2:02
  11. 11 The Behemoth 6:37
  12. 12 Staypuft 3:15