Spiritbox’s “Tsunami Sea”: The Future of Metal Has Arrived

Spiritbox’s “Tsunami Sea”: The Future of Metal Has Arrived

The 2020s have been an exciting time for metal, with legendary acts like Judas Priest still delivering excellence, bands like Avenged Sevenfold embracing twisted experimentation, and a new wave of artists bringing heavy music into the mainstream spotlight. Among these rising forces, few have made an impact as significant as Spiritbox.

In just under a decade, the Canadian four-piece has redefined the boundaries of modern metal, seamlessly fusing metalcore, djent, alternative, and electronic elements into a singular, unique sound. Their sophomore album, Tsunami Sea, released on March 7, 2025, solidifies their place as one of the genre’s most innovative and essential acts.

A Relentless Pursuit of Evolution

Spiritbox was formed in 2016 by vocalist Courtney LaPlante and guitarist Mike Stringer, both former members of Iwrestledabearonce. Their ascent was meteoric, thanks in part to their ability to harness the power of social media and viral music videos. Songs like Holy Roller and Circle With Me gained massive traction online, especially during the pandemic when reaction videos helped propel their reach beyond niche metal audiences.

Their debut album, Eternal Blue (2021), was met with widespread critical acclaim, earning the band multiple end-of-year accolades and a reputation as a breakout sensation. However, despite its success, some critics noted that Eternal Blue didn’t fully distinguish itself from the saturated modern djent and prog-metalcore scenes. Rather than resting on their laurels, Spiritbox responded with a bold creative evolution.

Expanding the Boundaries of Heavy Music

In the years following Eternal Blue, Spiritbox experimented with their sound through two EPs: Rotoscope (2022) and The Fear of Fear (2023). These releases saw them embracing industrial, nu-metal, and alternative influences, demonstrating a willingness to push their artistic boundaries. The results were both critically lauded and commercially successful, earning the band two Grammy nominations and securing their place on the Billboard charts.

With Tsunami Sea, Spiritbox fully embraces their diverse influences while maintaining their signature heaviness. The album continues their core djent and metalcore roots but expands into electronic, pop, and alternative rock landscapes with an unprecedented level of confidence.

A More Organic Production Approach

Unlike Eternal Blue, which had a highly polished production style, Tsunami Sea embraces a rawer, more organic sound. Produced once again by Stringer and Dan Braunstein (ex-Volumes), the album captures a more dynamic and human feel. The production allows the instruments to breathe, ensuring that Spiritbox sounds like a cohesive unit rather than a product of meticulous studio editing.

This shift in production philosophy results in a record that feels more alive, powerful, and emotionally resonant. The atmospheric layers are carefully crafted, enhancing the music without overwhelming it, and giving each track a distinct personality.

The Defining Metal Album of the Decade?

Critics and fans alike have hailed Tsunami Sea as a near-perfect album, a testament to Spiritbox’s refined songwriting and fearless approach to experimentation. Tracks like Perfect Soul and Fata Morgana showcase their signature style, balancing massive hooks with crushing heaviness. However, the album also ventures into unexpected territories.

• No Loss, No Love introduces a robotic spoken-word section over pulsating rhythms.
• Crystal Roses flirts with drum and bass, incorporating quasi-hyperpop elements.
• Deep End features bright, anthemic melodies reminiscent of Bring Me The Horizon’s recent work.

Despite these sonic explorations, Spiritbox never loses their identity. Stringer’s guitar work remains distinct and innovative, avoiding mimicry even when nodding to influences like Architects (Tsunami Sea), Periphery (A Haven With Two Faces), and Deftones (Ride the Wave). Each track offers a unique experience while maintaining a cohesive album flow.

Courtney LaPlante: The Voice of Modern Metal

At the heart of Tsunami Sea lies Courtney LaPlante’s phenomenal vocal performance. From the venomous hardcore attack of Soft Spine to the soaring melodies of Keep Sweet, her versatility remains unmatched. Whether delivering gut-wrenching screams or hauntingly beautiful clean vocals, LaPlante proves why she is one of the most compelling and dynamic frontwomen in metal today.

A Triumph for Spiritbox and Modern Metal

Since its release, Tsunami Sea has garnered widespread acclaim from critics and listeners alike, solidifying Spiritbox’s transition from a breakout act to a dominant force in modern heavy music. The album exemplifies what makes metal exciting in the 2020s: fearless genre-blending, impeccable songwriting, and a refusal to be confined by traditional boundaries.

Spiritbox has proven that metal can thrive in the mainstream without compromising its essence. With Tsunami Sea, they’ve created an album that is both forward-thinking and deeply rooted in the genre’s core strengths. It’s an exhilarating listen, filled with moments of breathtaking intensity and melodic brilliance.

As the band continues to rise, one thing is certain—Spiritbox isn’t just part of the future of metal; they are the future of metal.