Chatting with Atreyu Guitarist Dan Jacobs about their EPs, Metalcore legacy and more

·27 min·2 clips

Atreyu guitarist Dan Jacobs reveals why the band is releasing their new EP in three parts to make each song stand out.

The episode begins with host Peter Roumeliotis introducing Dan Jacobs and the upcoming final installment of Atreyu's three-part EP, 'A Torch in the Dark,' set for release on November 3rd via Spine Farm Records. Jacobs explains the rationale behind the EP's staggered release, comparing it to TikTok content and emphasizing the need for each song to receive individual attention in today's fast-paced music landscape. He delves into Atreyu's musical identity, using a Cheesecake Factory analogy to describe their blend of diverse styles, contrasting it with AC/DC's consistent formula. The discussion shifts to live performances, where Jacobs reveals how the band uses Spotify analytics to select setlists based on popular tracks, avoiding deep cuts that might alienate crowds. Peter shares a personal anecdote about using Atreyu's song 'Her Portrait in Black' as entrance music for a high school dodgeball game, highlighting the band's impact on fans. Jacobs reflects on the importance of melody in guitar riffs, citing Brian May of Queen as an inspiration. He also touches on Atreyu's experiences with video game soundtracks, such as Madden and Burnout, and how these placements expanded their fanbase. The conversation explores the cyclical nature of music trends, with Jacobs noting a current resurgence in heavy music, evidenced by Atreyu's recent arena tours drawing crowds of up to 7,000 people. He mentions collaborations with bands like Ice Nine Kills and Black Veil Brides on the Trinity of Terror tour. Peter recalls past Atreyu concerts and interviews with Warped Tour founder Kevin Lyman, emphasizing the festival's role in music discovery. The episode concludes with Peter thanking Jacobs for Atreyu's music helping him through tough times, and details on where to find the band online.

As heard by us

Atreyu's EP rollout becomes a fan-first talk about legacy, memory, and momentum.

The episode centers on Dan Jacobs of Atreyu and the closing stretch of the band's three-part EP, A Torch in the Dark, to sketch how new music lands now.

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Why you'd press play

Atreyu's final three-part EP rollout, plus a high-school dodgeball story set to "Her Portrait in Black."

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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