Architects are a British metalcore band formed in 2004 in Brighton, England. Founded by twin brothers Dan and Tom Searle, the current lineup consists of Dan Searle (drums), Sam Carter (vocals), Alex Dean (bass), and Adam Christianson (guitar). The band is known for their technical approach to metalcore, blending complex rhythms, melodic elements, and socially conscious lyrics.
Their debut album Nightmares was released in 2006, followed by Ruin (2007) and Hollow Crown (2009), which helped them gain a wider audience. In 2011, the band made a musical shift with The Here and Now, introducing more melodic elements into their sound. However, they returned to a heavier sound with Daybreaker (2012), which was praised for its energy and technical precision.
Tragedy struck in 2016 when guitarist and primary songwriter Tom Searle passed away from skin cancer. Despite the loss, the band continued to work and released Holy Hell (2018), an album dealing with themes of grief and loss. Their next album, For Those That Wish to Exist (2021), addressed issues of climate change and social responsibility, while The Classic Symptoms of a Broken Spirit (2022) explored personal and societal dilemmas.
In February 2025, the band released their eleventh studio album, The Sky, the Earth & All Between, which was praised for its musical maturity and emotional depth. The album marked a return to a four-piece lineup after guitarist Josh Middleton left the band due to creative differences.
Architects are known for their energetic live performances and engaged lyrics that tackle themes such as ecology, politics, and personal struggles. Their contribution to the metalcore genre and the music industry makes them one of the most influential British bands of the past two decades.
