Brandon Saller, the drummer and co-vocalist of metalcore giants Atreyu, has always played a key role in the band’s evolution. As they navigate their two-decade career, Saller has spoken openly about the challenges and strategies that keep Atreyu relevant in an ever-changing metal scene.
In recent interviews, Saller emphasized the importance of staying adaptable and embracing the evolution of music without losing the essence that makes Atreyu unique. “The landscape of music is always shifting,” Saller says. “You can’t be afraid to explore new sounds and ideas, but you also have to stay true to who you are.”
Atreyu’s willingness to experiment with different styles has been one of the keys to their longevity. Starting in the early 2000s as one of the pioneers of the metalcore genre, the band has infused elements of hard rock, punk, and alternative metal into their sound. Albums like Lead Sails Paper Anchor and Baptize reflect this desire to push boundaries, blending heavy riffs with melodic hooks and clean vocals, courtesy of Saller, alongside Alex Varkatzas’ and now, Brandon’s full takeover of vocals.
Saller credits the band’s collaborative approach for maintaining their relevance. “We’re always challenging each other, asking what’s next, what’s new,” he says. “We’ve never been content to just sit back and play it safe.” Atreyu’s recent releases continue to appeal to both longtime fans and new listeners by striking a balance between the aggression of their early work and the modern sensibilities of today’s rock and metal.
For Saller, staying relevant isn’t just about following trends, but about constantly evolving as musicians. With Atreyu’s ever-expanding sound and energetic live shows, Saller ensures the band will remain a force in the metal scene for years to come.