August Burns Red’s tenth studio album *Season of Surrender*—their most ambitious record in two decades—marks a turning point for the band, according to frontman Jake Luhrs. In a wide-ranging conversation, Luhrs reflects on the album’s themes of perseverance, the band’s 20-year journey, and their upcoming Australian tour, calling the era “a testament to what happens when you refuse to surrender.”
Released on August Burns Red’s official website on May 17, 2024, *Season of Surrender* follows the band’s 2022 album *Death Below* and arrives as the group prepares to celebrate their 20th anniversary. The record blends their signature metalcore sound with introspective lyrics, exploring themes of resilience and unity—a fitting theme for a band that has maintained a loyal fanbase through decades of touring and creative evolution.
Luhrs, who co-wrote and produced the album alongside guitarist Matt Greiner, describes *Season of Surrender* as “the culmination of years of reflection.” The album’s title track, he explains, “isn’t just about music—it’s about the fight we’ve been in as a band, as individuals, and as a community.” With the Australian tour set to begin in October 2024, the band aims to connect with fans on a deeper level, emphasizing live performances as a way to honor the album’s message.
Key Takeaways
- Album significance: *Season of Surrender* is August Burns Red’s tenth studio album, released after a two-year hiatus following *Death Below* (2022).
- Tour announcement: The band’s Australian tour kicks off October 2024, with dates spanning Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
- Lyrical themes: Luhrs emphasizes the album’s focus on perseverance, framing it as “a war we’ve been fighting together for 20 years.”
- Production details: The record was co-produced by Luhrs and guitarist Matt Greiner, blending metalcore with introspective songwriting.
- Fan engagement: The band prioritizes live shows as a way to deepen connections with longtime supporters.
- 20th anniversary: 2024 marks the band’s two-decade milestone, with *Season of Surrender* serving as a reflective centerpiece.
“This Is What Happens When You Refuse to Surrender”
August Burns Red’s journey began in 2003, but their sound and message have evolved significantly over two decades. Luhrs, who formed the band in his hometown of West Chester, Pennsylvania, credits the group’s longevity to an unwavering commitment to their craft—and to each other.
“We’ve been through a lot as a band,” Luhrs says. “Lineup changes, touring exhaustion, the industry shifting under our feet. But we’ve always found a way to come back stronger. *Season of Surrender* is our way of saying, ‘We’re still here—and we’re not going anywhere.’”
The album’s title track, he reveals, was inspired by the band’s ability to adapt and endure. “It’s not just about the music,” Luhrs explains. “It’s about the people who’ve stuck with us, the fans who’ve been there since the beginning. This record is for them.”
“We’ve always believed that music should mean something. *Season of Surrender* is our most personal record yet—not because we’re sharing secrets, but because we’re sharing the truth of what it takes to keep fighting.”
What Makes *Season of Surrender* Different?
While August Burns Red is best known for their high-energy metalcore sound, *Season of Surrender* incorporates a more polished, layered production style. Luhrs and Greiner worked closely with engineer Joe Barresi (known for his work with bands like Tool and Deftones) to achieve a darker, more atmospheric tone.
“We wanted the record to feel like a journey,” Luhrs says. “From the opening notes of ‘The Weight of the World’ to the closing track ‘Still Standing,’ every song is a step forward.” The album includes fan favorites like “Ghosts of Yesterday,” which Luhrs describes as “a song about letting go—something we’ve all had to do, whether in music or in life.”
To highlight the album’s depth, the band released a lyric video for “Season of Surrender” earlier this year, featuring animated visuals that mirror the song’s themes of resilience. The video has garnered over 2 million views on YouTube, underscoring the album’s emotional resonance.
The Australian Tour: A Homecoming for Fans
The band’s upcoming Australian tour, announced in June 2024, will see August Burns Red perform in three major cities: Sydney (October 10), Melbourne (October 12), and Brisbane (October 14). Tickets for the tour are already selling out, with demand particularly high among longtime fans.
“Australia has always been one of our favorite places to play,” Luhrs says. “The fans there are incredible—they’ve been with us since the early days, and we want to give them a show they’ll remember.” The tour will feature a setlist that includes tracks from *Season of Surrender* alongside fan favorites from across the band’s discography.
For those unable to attend, the band has released a virtual meet-and-greet later this month, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at the album’s recording process and a Q&A with Luhrs and Greiner.
Why This Album Matters in 2024
*Season of Surrender* arrives at a pivotal moment for August Burns Red. The band’s 20th anniversary coincides with a broader reckoning in the music industry about sustainability, creativity, and fan connection. Luhrs notes that the album’s themes resonate particularly strongly in today’s climate.
“There’s a lot of noise out there—bands coming and going, trends changing overnight,” he says. “But we’ve always believed in the power of music to bring people together. This record is our way of saying, ‘We’re still here, and we’re still fighting for what matters.’”
Industry observers, including Rolling Stone’s review, have praised the album for its maturity and emotional depth. “August Burns Red have finally delivered a record that feels like a natural evolution,” the review states, highlighting the band’s ability to balance aggression with introspection.
What’s Next for August Burns Red?
Following the Australian tour, the band has hinted at potential North American and European dates in early 2025. Luhrs confirms that the group is already working on new material, though he declines to specify details.
“We’re not done yet,” he says. “There’s always more to say, more to fight for. But for now, we’re focused on making sure *Season of Surrender* reaches as many people as possible.”
Fans can stay updated on tour announcements and new releases via the band’s official website or by following them on social media:
Have you heard *Season of Surrender*? Share your thoughts in the comments—or tag us on social media with your favorite track from the album. For the latest updates on the Australian tour and future shows, bookmark August Burns Red’s official site.