ALBUM REVIEW: BORN OF OSIRIS - THROUGH SHADOWS (11/07/25)
With Through Shadows, released 11 July via Sumerian Records, Born of Osiris return with renewed purpose - delivering an album that merges their signature blend of progressive metalcore, djent, and synth-laden soundscapes into a tight, high-intensity package. Known for their technical prowess and compositions, the Illinois quartet strike a balance between melody and mechanical brutality on this latest effort.
The album kicks off with ‘Seppuku’, a thunderous opener packed with electro synth elements, rapid-fire drumming and deathcore-esque, guttural growls by vocalist Ronnie Cannizaro. The guitar solo near the end elevates the track even more, adding both intensity and depth. Right away, it’s clear that Born of Osiris haven’t abandoned their roots, but they’ve definitely sharpened them.
The second song ‘Elevate’ displays chugging, down-tuned riffs by guitarists Lee McKinney and Nick Rossi, more synths elements and a strong melody that is very catchy.
‘Through Shadows,’ the title track comes next, which can be described as a melodic and contemplative anthem that leaves behind headbanging chaos for something more ethereal. The chorus is instantly memorable, driven by standout clean vocals that leave a lasting impression. The guitar leads pierce through the mix like sharp blades, while Canizaro’s vocals unleash high intensity, effortlessly shifting between guttural screams and anthemic choruses - a defining element throughout the album.
‘The Way That You Are’ feels like an anthem made for live setting, notably through the clean vocals on the chorus that would undeniable invite crowd participation. ‘Inverno’ leans into the band’s musicianship and technicality with downtuned chugs, towering riffs, poundering drums and blistering guitar solos. The rythm section is at the full front of this track, and it is impressive.
‘A Mind Short Circuiting’ adds atmospheric keyboards to the mix of crushing riffs, grooves, guttural growls, and thunderous drums - all without losing momentum. The result is a track that leans into a more ambient, cinematic feel while maintaining its heaviness - our favourite track of the album.
‘Burning Light’ opens with gentle piano and the subtle sound of crickets chirping, inviting the listener to pause and take in the album’s more ambient, synth-driven textures. It’s a little moment of calm that enhances the record’s depth, capturing a band that’s not afraid to experiment.
‘In Desolation’ and the single ‘Torchbearer’ bring the chaos back in true deathcore fashion, delivering off-kilter grooves, rapid-fire drumming, and blistering guitar riffs that set a relentless pace once more. ‘Activated’ featuring vocals from Underoath’s vocalist Spencer Chamberlain provides a more upbeat energy to the album, highlighted by a catchy chorus and an unexpected yet effective saxophone solo.
Lyrically, Through Shadows delves into inner turmoil, transcendence, and resilience - reflecting on the aftermath of broken relationships and the strength required to rebuild what’s been lost. Sonically the album reminds us of ERRA and Northlane for the technical precision, atmospheric layering, and the strong balance between aggressive and melodic elements that Born Of Osiris delivers perfectly.
‘Dark Fable’ and ‘Transcendence’ carry a distinct cyberpunk and egyptian edge, blending futuristic synths with razor-sharp technical riffing. True to the band’s own description of the album as “Egyptian supertechnical progressive djentcore that puts you into an ancient cyber trance,” these tracks fuse modern metal precision with more ambient atmosphere.
The album closes with ‘Blackwater,’ a striking track that blends even more synth textures, heavy riffs, thunderous drums, and a dynamic mix of clean and screamed vocals - topped off with an impressive guitar solo. This formula proves successful, delivering a strong finale that caps off an impressive album for the band.
Through Shadows is a confident and cohesive step forward. It represents the end of an era for Born of Osiris, who continue to blend brutality with atmosphere in a way few metalcore acts attempt. With this new record, they did not reinvent their formula, but simply refined it.
Track Listing:
1. Seppuku
2. Elevate
3. Through Shadows
4. The War That You Are
5. Inverno
6. A Mind Short Circuiting
7. Burning Light
8. In Desolation
9. Torchbearer
10. Activated
11. Dark Fable
12. Transcendence
13. Blackwater
