SBG RECORDS
Out Now
Words by: Angela Croudace
One of the greatest bands to come out of Madison, Wisconsin, Archers have been steadily carving out their place in the modern metalcore landscape with a sound that fuses searing heaviness and sharp melody in equal measure. Known for their emotionally charged lyrics, dynamic live shows, and an uncanny ability to craft hooks without sacrificing grit, the band has gained a loyal following since their incredible cover of The Weeknd’s The Hills caught fire online. Now, with their latest release Temporary High, Archers step into a new chapter, the band stating,
‘Temporary High is all about finding catharsis. It’s about breaking free from toxic cycles and finding value in oneself apart from anyone or anything that would try to usurp one’s own identity.’
Better Off kicks off the five-track EP with no hesitation, launching straight into heavy guitars and pounding drums. The track blends deep metalcore growls with pop-punk-tinged vocals, setting the tone for an EP that thrives on contrast and emotional intensity. For me, this track sparks a wave of nostalgia for the late-2000s metalcore era, yet it’s infused with a distinctly modern edge that Archers pull off effortlessly. What stands out most about Better Off is the clarity of the vocals and the emotional weight behind the lyrics—it’s both heartfelt and undeniably catchy. It’s an exciting opener—one that captures the best of both worlds and left me eager to hear what the rest of the EP has in store.
Wide Awake takes a more melodic turn, opening with sci-fi-tinged synths and softer vocals that ease the listener in before the intensity ramps up. The slower build gives the track space to breathe, making the eventual explosion into a faster, drum-driven chorus all the more impactful. Next, gravelly vocals crash in alongside heavy riffs and layered synths, creating a dynamic contrast that’s both chaotic and captivating. The blend of atmospheric electronics with crushing heaviness brings to mind the genre-bending style of Electric Callboy, and by the time the song closes with a heavy final burst, it feels like an experimental yet satisfying sonic journey has unfolded.
Safe Now showcases a softer, more introspective side of Archers, opening with gentle, dreamlike melodies and delicate, almost meditative vocals that create a calming atmosphere. The track feels stripped back and emotionally honest, with the slow, steady introduction of drums around the halfway point adding subtle momentum without breaking the mood. Strings and guitars weave through the mix, building a layered and heartfelt soundscape that highlights the band’s dynamic range. As the vocals grow more passionate, the song gradually swells with emotional weight, culminating in a powerful yet restrained back end. It’s a beautiful, moving piece that ends as softly as it began—an unexpected but welcome moment of vulnerability on the album.
Never Enough pulls you in with an infectious, head-nodding groove. It’s one of the heavier cuts on Temporary High, driven by gritty guitars, pounding drums, and raw, gravel-edged vocals that carry real weight. What makes it stand out, though, is the contrast—the chorus pulls back just enough to avoid overwhelming the mix, letting the melody shine while still keeping the energy high. The track features layered synths and tight double-kick drumming that give it a pulsing, almost electronic-metal edge reminiscent of bands that blur the line between satisfying rhythms and hardcore breakdowns. A standout moment comes in the breakdown, where clean vocals abruptly give way to full-throttle shouts, delivering an electrifying jolt of intensity. It’s a perfectly balanced burst of aggression and atmosphere, and easily one of the most thrilling moments on the EP.
Crooked Smile closes out Temporary High with a moody, groove-driven atmosphere that feels like a fitting curtain call. The track opens with a slower, more deliberate pace, inviting listeners into an emotive undercurrent before erupting into bursts of intensity, carried by raw, impassioned vocals. As it moves forward, the song dips back into a melodic stretch, showcasing Archers’ knack for dynamic shifts without losing cohesion. The heaviness returns in brief waves, adding tension and release before the track fades out with floatier vocals that leave an eerie, lingering impression. It may not be the most explosive track on the EP, but it’s a well-crafted closer that ties the emotional arc together with a sense of resolve and atmosphere.
Temporary High may be brief, but it leaves a lasting impression. It strikes a compelling balance between crushing heaviness and delicate, melodic moments, making it a rewarding listen for fans who appreciate both intensity and vulnerability in their music. The album feels like a cathartic diary entry—raw, honest, and thoughtfully crafted—moving seamlessly between softness and aggression. It’s an emotionally rich EP that not only showcases Archers’ range but signals a very promising future for the band.
