Atreyu begins work on next album

Orange County quintet Atreyu has entered Henson Studios in Los Angeles with producer Bob Marlette (Saliva, Seether) to begin work on the highly anticipated follow-up to 2007's Lead Sails Paper Anchor. "We started as a heavy hardcore band," says lead vocalist Alex Varkatzas, "and I think we've gotten away from that in recent years. The last record, for example, showcased us as a rock band with heavy parts. With this record, we want to return to our roots while also continuing to move forward. It's about finding the right balance between the two." "This album will scream as a statement of where we've been, what we've become and where we will go," adds drummer/vocalist Brandon Saller. "We think this record will be a huge marker in the life of Atreyu and we can't wait to unveil it." According to Varkatzas, the band has demo'd 30 songs and plan to narrow it down to 16, with the goal being to finish recording by June. "The songs definitely have a dark, heavier feel and I think the current climate has a lot to do with that," says the vocalist. "Personally, I just feel...angry and it's coming out in the music. Failed bailouts, unemployment on the rise, troops still in Iraq—I watch all this stuff on the news and it carries over to the sessions. It gets me fired up." After initial drum sessions at Henson, the band and Marlette will move production to the producer's Blue Room Studios in the San Fernando Valley. "I was anxious to work with these guys," says Marlette. "They're a great slamming live band with amazing power and a great signature sound. This is going to be a helluva record."