Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 7 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 7
  2. Negative: 0 out of 7
  1. Jul 1, 2011
    80
    As ever, their songs are structured, paced and technically advanced in a way that's leagues above much of this genre.
  2. Jul 1, 2011
    60
    With Leveler August Burns Red have reached the limitations of the metalcore rule book that they have been glued to ever since their debut.
  3. With Leveler, August Burns Red stays true to their sound while remaining fresh. The 12 tracks contain new dynamics and elements that are sure to please old and new fans alike, while Jake Luhrs' performance places him to the very top of best vocalists within the genre.
  4. Jul 1, 2011
    90
    August Burns Red have set their own bar even higher on Leveler, and have done so for all of their scene in the process. The album is certainly among the most memorable releases so far this year.
  5. Jul 1, 2011
    70
    This kind of contrast between light and dark makes Leveler a wonderfully dynamic album that is musically engaging with mercifully few bass bombs. Theological differences aside, metal fans would do well to give this one a chance.
  6. Kerrang!
    Jul 12, 2011
    60
    Effective as their hard and heavy approach is, the formulaic familiarity does grow weary at times but that won't bother their legion of diehards and Leveler might even snare some new ones. [25 Jun 2011, p.52]
  7. Alternative Press
    Jul 1, 2011
    80
    From start to finish, Leveler is exhilarating. [Jul 2011, p.106]
User Score
8.6

Universal acclaim- based on 12 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 12
  2. Negative: 0 out of 12
  1. Aug 30, 2011
    10
    August Burns Red is the one band I always know I can count on to deliver what I want. Once again they deliver by mixing their sound we allAugust Burns Red is the one band I always know I can count on to deliver what I want. Once again they deliver by mixing their sound we all know and love with some of their newer ideas. The one thing that has always been consistent for the band is their skill level. Technically, they embarrass just about every other band out there, to the point where you feel bad for the other bands since it was never a fair fight. Best of all, they have a strong message that they continue to express through their music without forcing down anyones throats and alienating those that disagree with them. Matt Greiner continues to improve and theories that he is similar to Jesus in looks and skill are warranted. The guitars are still very fast and heavy, but mixed in is easily the most melodic guitars. For the first time, I have found the guitars catchy in an ABR song, which is certainly hard to do in Metal. Standouts on the album for me are Cutting the Ties, Pangea, and Empire. They don't necessarily do anything differently, but they do everything so well and they mix different genres as they have never been mixed before. ABR knows what they want and they know how to get the sound that they desire. Most importantly, they know what the fans want and they seem to really listen to what fans think. After listening to Leveler, you may find yourself saying "That was the hardest ABR CD so far" and "That was the softest ABR CD so far" all in the same sentence. Yes, you will feel like an idiot for contradicting yourself, but it oddly makes sense. I can't wait to see where ABR goes from here, but this is the one band that I am always confident will deliver, even when it's in ways I didn't think I wanted. Full Review »
  2. Sep 24, 2015
    9
    Christian metal has another strong name to back it up. The band's style is heavy and aggressive. They mange to keep that strength goingChristian metal has another strong name to back it up. The band's style is heavy and aggressive. They mange to keep that strength going throughout the entire album. With empowering lyrics that are both emotional and meaningful, there's a tone here that helps set this band apart from others in the genre.

    Not that they really needed anything else to set them apart. Their talent is what makes them stand out. They show a level of finesse few other bands can manage. A certain solo in "Internal Cannon" is a perfect example of this. It takes a surprising and enjoyable turn into Spanish folk music complete with cowbell before diving right back into metal. Several other slight variations to their tracks are like this, and are effectively used to catch you off guard when you think you know what to expect from the next track.

    "Leveler" is fantastic album. One with a heavy sound and some positive message. Even if you don't follow the Christian faith this is an incredible metal band. One no fan of the genre should pass up on just because of their beliefs. There's a lot to enjoy here for anyone regardless of belief. It's a powerful and aggressive album. One that stands out amongst others in the genre.

    I give "Leveler" a 9.2/10.
    Full Review »
  3. Oct 14, 2012
    8
    This is the first August Burns Red album I've heard, and it is really quite good. It starts off very strong with "Empire" and the heavy,This is the first August Burns Red album I've heard, and it is really quite good. It starts off very strong with "Empire" and the heavy, fast-paced and relatively aggressive trend continues throughout the album, peaking on the track "Poor Millionaire": which really is heavier and more aggressive than any other track on the album, and to me, is the stand out track on the record. It's major flaw however, is that, while every track is good, there is not really any difference throughout the album, so if you dislike one song; you'll probably dislike the whole album. There are points in the album where I was really longing for a change in the vocals: perhaps some singing to really liven the album up to a point of awesome, but sadly this didn't happen. These flaws make what should have been an amazing record simply a great one, which is pretty pointless criticism I know, but it seems apt. 82/100. Full Review »