Is Animals As Leaders Hard Rock

Animals as Leaders is a progressive instrumental metal band from Washington, D.C., formed in 2007. The band consists of Tosin Abasi (guitar), Javier Reyes (guitar), and Matt Garstka (drums). While they are often associated with the djent and progressive metal genres, their music also incorporates elements of hard rock, making them a great example of a band that blends different styles.

To understand why Animals as Leaders can be considered hard rock, let's explore some key aspects of their music:

Heavy guitar riffs and complex time signatures: Animals as Leaders is known for their intricate guitar work, which often features complex time signatures and polyrhythms. These elements are also characteristic of hard rock music, which often emphasizes powerful guitar riffs and driving rhythms.

Aggressive and distorted guitar tones: The band's guitarists, Tosin Abasi and Javier Reyes, are known for their aggressive and distorted guitar tones, which are reminiscent of hard rock and heavy metal. These tones add a level of intensity and energy to their music.

Dynamic range and contrast: Animals as Leaders' music often features dramatic dynamic shifts, with quiet, atmospheric moments giving way to explosive, heavy sections. This contrast is a hallmark of hard rock music, which often seeks to create a sense of tension and release.

Influences from hard rock and metal: The band members have cited influences from hard rock and metal bands such as Tool, Meshuggah, and Dream Theater. These influences are evident in their music, which often incorporates elements of progressive rock and metal.

Lyrical themes: While Animals as Leaders is an instrumental band, their music often explores themes of social commentary, personal struggle, and introspection, which are common in hard rock and metal music.

Some notable songs that showcase the band's hard rock influences include:

"Tempting Time" (from the album "Animals as Leaders," 2009) - This song features a driving rhythm and aggressive guitar riffs, with a strong emphasis on melody.
"Isolated Incidents" (from the album "Weightless," 2011) - This song showcases the band's ability to blend complex time signatures with heavy, distorted guitar tones.
"Nephele" (from the album "The Joy of Motion," 2014) - This song features a more atmospheric and introspective approach, with a focus on dynamic range and contrast.

In conclusion, while Animals as Leaders is often associated with progressive metal and djent, their music also incorporates elements of hard rock, making them a great example of a band that blends different styles. Their use of heavy guitar riffs, complex time signatures, and aggressive guitar tones, combined with their dynamic range and contrast, make them a great fit for fans of hard rock music.