KILLSWITCH ENGAGE’s This Consequence Delivers Ferocity, Melody, and a Renewed Sense of Purpose

Killswitch Engage - This Consequence album cover. Metalcore pioneers Killswitch Engage are back with their ninth full-length album, This Consequence, set for release on February 21, 2025, via Metal Blade Records. Known for their ability to seamlessly blend aggression with melody, the Massachusetts-based quintet—Jesse Leach (vocals), Adam Dutkiewicz (guitar), Joel Stroetzel (guitar), Mike D’Antonio (bass), and Justin Foley (drums)—have once again crafted an album that encapsulates everything that has made them a force in the genre for over two decades.

One of the most notable aspects of This Consequence is its back-to-basics approach to songwriting. Unlike some of their more recent albums, which leaned heavily on remote collaboration, this record was born out of intensive, face-to-face jam sessions in their Massachusetts rehearsal space. The result is an album that feels more organic, more urgent, and more in tune with the band’s earlier works, such as Alive Or Just Breathing and The End of Heartache.

Bassist Mike D’Antonio described the process as “the first time since Alive Or Just Breathing that we really hashed everything out together in the same room.” That energy translates into an album that is both cohesive and dynamic, pushing the band’s signature sound while exploring new sonic landscapes.

Lyrically, This Consequence is among Jesse Leach’s most impassioned works to date. Inspired by personal introspection, social unrest, and existential contemplation, Leach tackles themes of resilience, consequence, and revolution. As he explained, “It’s really about coming out of a dark time—the aftermath of the world dealing with an abusive situation. It’s about awakening, realizing the truth, and pushing back.”

From start to finish, the album feels like a reckoning—both personal and societal. Leach’s lyrical depth, combined with the band’s instrumental ferocity, creates a sonic journey that is as cathartic as it is punishing.

Standout Tracks

“Forever Aligned” – The album’s lead single is a perfect encapsulation of everything Killswitch Engage does best. The track opens with pounding drums and guttural vocals before transitioning into a soaring, melodic chorus. It’s a testament to their ability to balance brutality and beauty.

“Aftermath” – A song about healing and moving forward, this track builds from a delicate intro into a thunderous crescendo. The chorus, with its refrain “We’re reeling from the aftermath, still bleeding from the damage of the past,” is both anthemic and deeply personal.

“Collusion” – One of the most politically charged songs on the album, this track takes aim at corruption and manipulation. With a blistering pace and venomous delivery, it recalls the raw energy of early Killswitch while feeling undeniably relevant.

“The Fall of Us” – Easily one of the heaviest songs in their catalog, this track flirts with death metal elements, featuring guttural vocals, rapid-fire drumming, and crushing riffs. It’s a slight departure from their usual style, but it works beautifully.

“Broken Glass” – A powerful track that uses shattered imagery to represent broken relationships and the scars they leave behind. The combination of melancholic melodies and aggressive breakdowns makes this a standout moment on the record.

Sonically, This Consequence is one of Killswitch Engage’s most polished yet visceral releases. Adam Dutkiewicz, known for his stellar production work, ensures that every instrument has room to breathe while maintaining the band’s signature intensity. The dual-guitar attack of Dutkiewicz and Stroetzel is razor-sharp, weaving intricate melodies and crushing breakdowns effortlessly. D’Antonio’s bass tone is more prominent than ever, providing a rock-solid foundation for the band’s rhythmic assault, while Foley’s drumming is as precise and punishing as ever.

This Consequence is not just another Killswitch Engage album—it’s a statement. It showcases a band that refuses to stagnate, constantly pushing themselves to refine and redefine their sound. With a perfect balance of melody and aggression, introspection and defiance, the album is a testament to their longevity and relevance in the metalcore scene.

While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, This Consequence polishes and strengthens the very elements that have made Killswitch Engage legends in their genre. Fans will find plenty to love here, and newcomers may find themselves converted within the album’s tight 35-minute runtime.

With a U.S. tour kicking off in March, Killswitch Engage is set to bring This Consequence to life on stage, where these tracks will undoubtedly shine. If this album is any indication, the band is not slowing down anytime soon—and that’s something worth celebrating.

KILLSWITCH ENGAGE ON TOUR:
WITH KUBLAI KHAN TX, FIT FOR A KING, + FROZEN SOUL:
03/05 – Nashville, TN – The Pinnacle
03/06 – Chesterfield, MO – The Factory
03/08 – Fayetteville, AR – JJ’s Live
03/09 – Oklahoma City, OK – The Criterion
03/11 – El Paso, TX – Don Haskins Center Arena
03/13 – Las Vegas, NV – The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
03/14 – Reno, NV – Grand Theatre at The Grand Sierra Resort
03/15 – Wheatland, CA – Hard Rock Live
03/17 – Garden City, ID – Revolution Concert House
03/18 – Seattle, WA – The Paramount
03/19 – Vancouver, BC – PNE Forum
03/21 – Penticton, BC – South Okanagan Events Centre
03/22 – Tsuut’ina, AB – Grey Eagle Event Centre
03/24 – Winnipeg, MB – Burton Cummings Theatre
03/27 – Peoria, IL – Peoria Civic Center
03/28 – Waukee, IA- Vibrant Music Hall
03/29 – La Vista, NE – The Astro
03/30 – Kansas City, MO – The Midland Theatre
04/01 – Grand Rapids, MI – GLC Live 20 Monroe
04/03 – Corbin, KY – The Corbin Arena
04/04 – Pittsburgh, PA – Stage AE
04/05 – Philadelphia, PA – Franklin Music Hall
04/06 – Greensboro, NC – Greensboro Special Events Center
04/08 – New Haven, CT – College Street Music Hall
04/09 – Buffalo, NY – Buffalo RiverWorks
04/11 – Laval, QC -Place Bell
04/12 – Portland, ME – Cross Insurance Arena