U.K. metalcore outfit Acres is back with their latest single, “Staring at the Sun,” offering a taste of their highly anticipated album The Host, out May 2 via Solid State Records. Known for their seamless blend of atmospheric melodies and powerful, cathartic dynamics, the band once again delivers a track that captures their unique ability to balance quiet, reflective moments with explosive intensity.

“Staring at the Sun” embodies the essence of what fans have come to love about Acres: a melancholic exploration of emotional turmoil wrapped in a dynamic sonic package. The song’s quiet-loud structure feels like an emotional rollercoaster, with vocalist Ben Lumber’s impassioned delivery guiding the listener through the highs and lows of longing and regret. The lyrics echo a familiar theme for the band–the struggle to let go of someone or something that has an undeniable grip on you. As Lumber puts it, it’s “a classic miserable Acres love song,” but with a modern twist.

Musically, “Staring At The Sun” embraces the band’s signature style of melodic hooks intertwined with intense breakdowns. The track’s dramatic shifts between serene passages and powerful bursts of energy exemplify Acres’ skill in crafting emotional tension through their songwriting and production. The video, which features the band performing the song in a stripped-back, unpolished setting, complements this energy with a voyeuristic edge, keeping the viewer locked in and unwilling to look away.

What makes “Staring at the Sun” even more intriguing is the influence of producer Landon Tewers (The Plot In You). His expertise and fresh perspective are apparent, adding a new layer to Acres’ sound without sacrificing the elements that made them a standout in the metalcore scene. The band’s expanded sonic palette, incorporating drop-tunings and Tewers’ production acumen, is evident here, setting the stage for what promises to be a groundbreaking album.

As a band that has consistently evolved with each release, Acres’ direction with The Host is clear: they are pushing their boundaries while remaining rooted in the emotional core that first captured their fanbase. “Staring At The Sun” is a striking glimpse into this new chapter—introspective yet explosive, haunting yet empowering. It’s a track that will resonate with anyone who has ever been trapped in the struggle of love and loss, all while showcasing the band’s undeniable growth as both musicians and songwritees.

With The Host due out soon and a tour with The Devil Wears Prada on the horizon, Acres is poised to continue their rise in the metalcore scene, and “Staring The Sun” is a perfect reminder of why they’ve earned a dedicated following.