Formed in 2013 in South Florida, TRAITORS emerged as a pioneering force in the deathcore scene, known for their signature blend of slow, sludgy downtempo riffs that redefined the genre.
Today, they are pleased to announce their new album — and fifth overall — titled PHOBIAS. The album is due out on February 21. Pre-order it here and here. [[ADD LINK]
Today, the band has shared the brutally cathartic new track “Release.” Listen here.
“‘Release’ captures the internal battle of mental anguish and suppressed emotions, delivering an unapologetic reflection on pain, anger, and disillusionment,” says singer Tyler Shelton. “Blending aggressive lyrics with a haunting introspection, it confronts feelings of being left behind, crushed under societal pressures, and the struggle to maintain a façade of strength. The chorus channels a cathartic release of suffering, with visceral lines that demand the listener to feel the weight of unresolved trauma.”
The album “delves into the darkest corners of the human mind, exploring themes of mental anguish, inner torment, and destructive cycles,” Shelton continues. “As a successor to the EP Night Terrors, this collection of tracks amplifies the intensity, confronting fears and personal demons head-on. The lyrics paint vivid pictures of isolation, manic episodes, self-loathing, and violent outbursts. Each song grapples with the overwhelming weight of trauma, regret, and fractured identity, offering no resolution but instead laying bare the relentless mental battles within. It’s an unfiltered expression of pain and the struggle to survive amidst chaos.”
In other words, PHOBIAS is not for the weak. It’s a sonically and emotionally pummeling record from back to front. It’s a musical bloodletting that will leave you feeling cleansed afterwards.
TRAITORS ARE:
Tyler Shelton — Vocals
Alan De La Torre — Guitar
Luke Fladino — Guitar
Josh Herman — Bass
Soul Kerr — Drums
ABOUT TRAITORS:
TRAITORS debut single “Arrogance” quickly gained traction, propelling the band into the spotlight just four months after its release. This momentum led to their first nationwide tour, establishing Traitors as a formidable presence in the metal community. The release of their critically acclaimed EP Night Terrors in 2015 further solidified their reputation, showcasing the band’s ability to infuse raw aggression with hauntingly atmospheric elements. Traitors have continued to evolve their sound over the years, releasing four full-length albums, including The Hate Campaign and Anger Issues, which have become cornerstones of their discography. Throughout their career, Traitors have maintained a relentless touring schedule, sharing stages with metal heavyweights and earning a dedicated fanbase. Their music, characterized by visceral lyrics and crushing breakdowns, resonates deeply with listeners, offering a cathartic outlet for anger and frustration. As they gear up for the release of their fifth studio album in 2025, Traitors remain at the forefront of the deathcore genre, continually pushing the boundaries of heavy music while staying true to their roots. With a career marked by consistency and innovation, Traitors stand as a testament to the enduring power of heavy metal.
