"Rheia" eschews the expected brutality for a cathartic, introspective sound, marking a significant evolution in Oathbreaker's discography. The album masterfully balances raw emotion with expansive, atmospheric passages.
- Recorded in late 2015 at Step In Sound Studios with Converge guitarist Kurt Ballou, "Rheia" was a departure from Oathbreaker's previous work. The album was self-released by the band before being picked up by Deathwish Inc. It features guest vocals from B.J. from the band Dead in the Ditch.
- "Rheia" charted at number 19 on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart in the US. It was widely lauded by critics as one of the best metal albums of 2016.
- The album's title, "Rheia," is a reference to the Greek Titaness and mother of the Olympian gods, Rhea, perhaps signifying themes of creation and destruction.
Oathbreaker is a Belgian band formed in 2008, known for blending elements of black metal and hardcore punk. At the time of "Rheia"'s release, they were a prominent act in the metalcore and screamo scenes, pushing the boundaries of extreme music.
Tracklist
