Halfway Human (album)
| Industry | Music |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | United States |
Key people | Joe Cocchi (guitarist, producer), Tim Goergen (former lead vocalist), Paolo Galang (bassist, clean vocals) |
| Products | Metalcore music albums |
Halfway Human represents the fifth full-length release by the American metalcore group Within the Ruins, arriving on March 3, 2017. This record is notable as the debut of bassist Paolo Galang, who became a member in 2015. Critics highlighted the album's incorporation of fresh elements, such as clean vocal performances from both Paolo and longtime frontman Tim Goergen—marking a first for the band—alongside their customary screaming and death growls. Additionally, this album serves as Goergen's final contribution before his departure in February 2018 due to health concerns.
Upon release, the album entered the Billboard 200 chart at position 191, moving 4,025 units in its opening week, indicating a moderate level of commercial achievement. Produced by guitarist Joe Cocchi and distributed through eOne Music and Good Fight Music, Halfway Human further solidified Within the Ruins' standing within the metalcore and progressive metal scenes.
Background and recording
On May 3, 2016, Within the Ruins revealed via YouTube their plans to return to the studio for a follow-up to their 2014 album Phenomena. The initial tracking took place at their own facility under the guidance of guitarist Joe Cocchi. Subsequently, they proceeded to Zing Studios in Westfield, Massachusetts to record vocals with engineer Jim Fogarty, known for his work with metal bands such as Killswitch Engage and The Devil Wears Prada. Fogarty also engineered Within the Ruins' debut album Creature in 2008.
On May 6, Cocchi described how the creative approach for Halfway Human differed from previous efforts:
"The writing process was a bit different for this album," Cocchi explained. "We took time to revisit some of our earlier material. Normally we'd rush through writing and head straight into recording. Now, with greater experience and a desire to break from our usual formula, we focused on crafting something that sounds distinct."[1]
He further elaborated:
"We returned to a more natural style of songwriting and production. I discarded many of my previous writing 'rules,' which led to a fresher sound. This is our most raw and intense work to date. Keep an eye out for updates and studio blogs."[1]
Promotion and release
On August 8, 2016, the band shared a brief 17-second audio teaser of a new track on Facebook.
The official release date was announced on November 21, 2016, accompanied by the debut single "Death of the Rockstar". Cocchi described the track as an expression of their frustration with today's music business:
"'Death of the Rockstar' reflects our dissatisfaction with how the music industry currently operates. The song is straightforward and speaks clearly. We live in times where superficial trends overshadow genuine artistry and creativity. The industry feels contaminated. Please enjoy."[2]
To promote Halfway Human, Within the Ruins joined Born of Osiris on "The New Reign Tour" alongside Volumes, Oceans Ate Alaska, and Fire from the Gods beginning in early 2017.
On January 11, 2017, exclusively through Metal Injection, Within the Ruins unveiled a music video for their second single "Beautiful Agony". Cocchi remarked:
"This track carries a darker tone compared to much of our earlier work, and this video perfectly captures that mood. Justin Reich did an outstanding job directing it!"
Starting February 2, three behind-the-scenes videos documenting sessions at Zing Studio were released on YouTube. These clips showcased new bassist Paolo Galang's clean vocal contributions—an addition that expanded Within the Ruins' signature sound—and received favorable reactions from fans.
On March 2, they debuted a music video for their third single "Objective Reality," also directed by Justin Reich. The album officially dropped on March 3, 2017.[2]
Critical reception
The album was met with widespread acclaim from critics, who emphasized Within the Ruins' musical progression and the introduction of clean singing. Sebastian from Sputnikmusic awarded it a 4.5 out of 5, praising Galang's clean vocal contributions and guitar solos while maintaining the band’s trademark technical approach:
"Halfway Human... demonstrates that Within the Ruins are not just excelling within their own sphere but dominating the genre as a whole. Featuring dynamic guitar layers, commanding vocals, and a tight rhythm section, they remain innovative without resorting to gimmicks. Competitors will need to bring their best, as very few can challenge them at this stage."
Rodney Fuchs of Itdjents also highlighted Paolo Galang’s clean vocals, remarking on how well they complement songs such as "Death of a Rockstar" and "Beautiful Agony," adding a melodic dimension to the band's sound:
"The most notable shift is the inclusion of clean vocals, which integrate seamlessly. The music benefits from melodic choruses that enrich their intense style."
Fuchs gave the album an 8.0/10 rating and summarized his thoughts:
"Halfway Human is an enjoyable record that delivers melodic heaviness with catchy choruses and groove—while not revolutionary, it offers fans plenty to appreciate."
Jeremy Ulrey from Metal Injection described the album as a "transitional" work moving toward a more refined sound. Awarding it 7.5 out of 10, he applauded Cocchi's guitar performance and McGuill's drumming, drawing parallels to bands like Gojira, Fear Factory, and Cynic. Ulrey observed that Galang’s clean vocals stood out in certain moments but often merely served as background elements:
"Within the Ruins are progressing in the right direction with this subtle stylistic shift. Tracks incorporating clean choruses alongside their tech-melodic deathcore foundation work effectively, though those deviating too far from their core sound are less compelling."
Personnel
Within the Ruins
- Tim Goergen – lead vocals
- Joe Cocchi – guitars, production, engineering
- Paolo Galang – bass guitar, clean vocals
- Kevin McGuill – drums
Additional personnel
- Jim Fogarty – additional production
- Josh Wickman – mixing and mastering
- Scott Baldwin Lee – management
- Angryblue and Justin Kamerer – artwork and design
- Jeremy Saffer – photography
Charts
Template:Album chart| Chart (2017) | Peak position |
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