Album Review: In We Fall – Inner Self (Eclipse Records)

‘Inner Self’ is the new album from Portuguese alt-metal / post-grunge band, In We Fall. A concept album telling stories that speak to the horrors of war, the shock of betrayal, the risk of blind trust, and the tragedy of putting our fists against the world. In We Fall aim to show listeners just how much we are one, learning how to feel together, how to fall, and how we can finally rise. The album was produced by Daniel Moreira, and it will be released by Eclipse Records on December 13th, 2024, with distribution via The Orchard.

With strong messages throughout, delivered with effective passion, and showcased via the medium of hearty alternative rock and metal (amongst other genres), Inner Self is an easy album to enjoy. Not just because of the over-arching concept and how that is showcased, but because of the individual anthemic quality that comes from each track.

Beginning with a robust rocker called Road to Li(v)e, In We Fall make a point of showing off their animated rock-focused side, while also layering in some thrilling post-grunge vibes. It’s got a certain amount of notable moodiness, but it still feels peppy. It’s a strong opener, but the following track, (A)void, has a much more creative melodic sound and groovy style. Not only that, but it’s also a stronger example of their alternative catchiness. The side of In We Fall that makes them so much more accessible.

Though, there’s very little on here that wouldn’t appeal to a wide and varied audience. Tracks like the dramatic and brooding Looking Inside, the triumphant Whole Again and its powerful guitar solo, the sombre power of Hope is Gone, and the chorus-driven Silent War, where a cacophony of voices makes for a unique listen. Each has its own aura and showcase the range that In We Fall has.

Range that continues to set high standards for the alternative rock and metal scene as Inner Self reaches its latter stages. Credit where credit is due, In We Fall haven’t delivered anything that could be called boring or lacklustre. Case in point, Half Human, a track with a groovier tempo and a big sounding chorus. In We Fall’s imagination is vibrant and that means things still feel exciting, and important, as the album reaches its apex.

To end things, we get the most sorrowful track of all with What Now? Then we get a hardy rocker that delivers some great instrumental heaviness called Winter Shades. Before Empty Hand wraps the record up in similar fashion to how it begun, energetic and riffy. A chance to bang the head a bit, and move the body.

A very likable album that has universal appeal, you can sense that In We Fall have the potential to be a big name in the worldwide alternative rock and metal scene based off this album’s sound.

In We Fall – Inner Self Track Listing:

1. Road to Li(v)e
2. (A)void
3. Looking Inside
4. Whole Again
5. Hope Is Gone
6. Silent War
7. Half Human
8. What Now?
9. Winter Shades
10. Empty Hand

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