Architects

Architects, the Brighton-based titans of metalcore, have forged an indelible legacy through their relentless pursuit of musical evolution, profound lyrical depth, and an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of heavy music. From their early, chaotic origins to their current status as arena-filling rock giants, their journey has been one of immense creativity, personal tragedy, and remarkable resilience, ensuring their constant presence in trending rock conversations and as a standard for modern progressive metalcore.

The band’s foundation was laid in 2004 by twin brothers Dan Searle (drums) and Tom Searle (guitar) in Brighton, East Sussex. Initially known as Counting the Days, they quickly adopted the name Architects. Early lineups saw various members, but the core began to solidify with the arrival of vocalist Sam Carter in 2007, replacing Matt Johnson. Carter’s dynamic vocal range, capable of both guttural screams and soaring clean melodies, quickly became a defining feature. Bassist Alex Dean also joined around this time, followed by guitarist Tim Hillier-Brook.

Their early albums, such as Nightmares (2006) and Ruin (2007), showcased a raw, technically intricate sound heavily influenced by mathcore pioneers like The Dillinger Escape Plan. It was with Hollow Crown (2009) that Architects truly began to hone their distinctive style, blending their technical prowess with more melodic sensibilities and increasingly mature songwriting. The band’s ascent accelerated dramatically with Lost Forever // Lost Together (2014), an album that garnered widespread critical acclaim for its ferocious riffs, expansive soundscapes, and profound lyrical depth. This was followed by All Our Gods Have Abandoned Us (2016), a darker, more intense offering that further explored themes of nihilism, environmentalism, and despair.

Architects reached new heights with For Those That Wish to Exist (2021), an album that saw them embrace a more expansive, anthemic, and at times orchestral sound, leading to their first ever UK Albums Chart number one. This was followed by The Classic Symptoms of a Broken Spirit (2022), and their latest album, The Sky, the Earth & All Between, released in February 2025, which continues their sonic evolution.