10 Years After: The Shocking Evolution And Enduring Legacy Of BMTH’s ‘That’s The Spirit’
Contents
The Architects of *That’s The Spirit*: Band Lineup and Key Profiles
The creation of *That’s The Spirit* was defined by the stable five-piece lineup that had solidified following the addition of a crucial new member. This era saw the band—Oli Sykes, Lee Malia, Matt Kean, Matt Nicholls, and Jordan Fish—operating at the peak of their creative and commercial ambition, blending their metal roots with electronic rock and pop sensibilities. Here is the essential profile of the band members during the *That’s The Spirit* era:- Oli Sykes (Lead Vocals, Primary Lyricist)
- Role: The band’s frontman and creative visionary, Sykes’ lyrics for *That’s The Spirit* were intensely personal, focusing heavily on his struggles with addiction and depression.
- Impact: His clean vocal delivery, a major shift from the screams of earlier albums like *Suicide Season*, became the defining characteristic of the new sound.
- Jordan Fish (Keyboards, Programming, Backing Vocals, Production)
- Role: Joining the band in 2012, Fish was instrumental in the band's sonic evolution. For *That’s The Spirit*, he took on a significant production role, co-producing the album and layering the electronic and atmospheric textures that defined the new sound.
- Impact: His contribution is often cited as the catalyst for the band's move into Alternative Metal and Pop Rock territory, a crucial entity in the band's commercial success.
- Lee Malia (Guitar)
- Role: The band’s lead guitarist, Malia was responsible for retaining the ‘heavier’ edge, layering massive, atmospheric guitar riffs that provided the necessary weight to the new, streamlined sound.
- Impact: His work bridged the gap between the band's metalcore past (*Count Your Blessings*) and their arena-rock future.
- Matt Kean (Bass)
- Role: Bassist and a founding member, Kean provided the rhythmic foundation alongside Nicholls.
- Matt Nicholls (Drums)
- Role: Drummer and another founding member, Nicholls’ powerful yet precise drumming anchored the album's massive sound.
The Stylistic Shift: From Metalcore to Stratospheric Alternative Rock
*That’s The Spirit* was not just an album; it was a statement of intent. Following the success of 2013's *Sempiternal*, which had already introduced electronic elements, this fifth record fully committed to an Alternative Metal and Pop Rock direction, leaving the band’s Deathcore roots far behind. The album was self-produced by Jordan Fish and Oli Sykes, and recorded in Santorini, Greece, a location that starkly contrasts with the dark, heavy themes of the music. This change in environment and production control allowed the band to fully realize their vision for a stadium-ready sound. The result was a polished, dynamic record that focused on colossal choruses, layered synths, and simplified song structures designed for maximum impact.Key Singles and Enduring Tracks
The success of *That’s The Spirit* was driven by a string of massive singles that still dominate rock radio playlists and live setlists today. These tracks became the band’s most commercially successful to date, transcending their UK-alternative origins.- "Throne": Arguably the album's most anthemic track, "Throne" is a perfect example of the band's new sound: huge, electronic-laced, and built around a massive, sing-along chorus. It quickly became a staple of their live shows.
- "Drown": Released prior to the album, "Drown" was the first major indicator of the band's new direction, featuring clean vocals and a deeply emotional, powerful chorus that explored themes of hopelessness and finding strength.
- "Follow You": A softer, more ballad-like track that showcased Sykes' vocal range and the band's newfound maturity in songwriting, proving their versatility beyond heavy rock.
- "Doomed": The opening track, "Doomed" sets the tone with its atmospheric build-up and lyrics that address the struggle with mental health, a central theme of the album.
The 10th Anniversary Edition: What’s New in 2025
The enduring legacy of *That’s The Spirit* is being celebrated with a special 10th Anniversary re-issue, slated for release on December 12, 2025. This news confirms the album's status as a modern classic and provides a fresh opportunity for fans to own a piece of rock history. The re-issue is primarily focused on a new vinyl format, appealing to collectors and audiophiles. Details confirmed so far include:- Release Date: December 12, 2025.
- Formats: The album will be available in multiple limited-edition vinyl pressings.
- Black and White Splatter Vinyl: A standard collectible edition featuring a striking black and white splatter design.
- Limited Edition Picture Disc: A highly sought-after format pressed on recycled vinyl, featuring unique artwork.
The Enduring Topical Authority of *That’s The Spirit*
The album's title, *That’s The Spirit*, and its iconic umbrella cover art were inspired by the common, often dismissive, phrase used when dealing with difficult situations. The entire record is a celebration of darkness, encouraging listeners to embrace their struggles rather than deny them. This focus on mental health advocacy resonated deeply with millions of listeners worldwide, giving the album a topical authority that few rock records achieve. It was a soundtrack for a generation dealing with anxiety, depression, and the pressures of modern life, packaged in a way that was accessible and powerful. The success of the album proved that a band could tackle sensitive, personal subjects while achieving mainstream success, forever changing the landscape of alternative and electronic rock music. The album’s influence extends far beyond its commercial performance. It set a blueprint for other heavy bands looking to evolve, demonstrating that sonic progression, even if controversial, is essential for longevity. As the 10th Anniversary approaches, *That’s The Spirit* remains a definitive turning point, a record that not only saved Bring Me The Horizon but redefined what a modern rock band could be.
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