Afterglow

The full-length debut from alt-metal and R&B alchemists Sleep Theory, 2025s Afterglow, is an often exhilarating balance of grinding riffs and melodic choruses. The album follows the Memphis groups buzzed-about 2023 EP, Paper Hearts, and finds the four-piece building upon and further expanding their distinctive mix of stylistic touchstones. Central to that sound is lead singer Cullen Moore, who brings his highly resonant vocal wallop to the proceedings. Here, he once again leans into his rich R&B roots, but just as often surprises with a rasp-throated edge. Its a dynamic quality and one thats nicely backed by guitarist/screamo vocalist Daniel Pruitt, bassist/vocalist Paolo Vergara, and drummer Ben Pruitt, all of whom support Moore with potent contributions throughout. Cuts like "III," "Gravity," and "Just a Mistake" are the kind of rousing stadium anthems that get summer crowds pumping fists. They are also expertly crafted, showcasing Moores knife-blade-on-a-velvet-pillow choruses. However, as pop savvy as the band can be, they definitely arent afraid to smash things up, and tracks like "Hourglass," "Fallout," and "Parasite" pummel you with their raw, tidal-wave rock power. ~ Matt Collar