Am I in Trouble? – Spectrum

Two thoughts crossed my mind when I got the promo for Am I in Trouble? – Spectrum. First: “Oh wow! There’s so much color here that there’s no way this is just a Black Metal album”. Second: “That’s one of the weirdest band names I’ve ever heard”. For an extreme Metal band, the name feels a bit… problematic (ooof, I know I’m getting punched for that one). And I’ve received promos with band names I can’t even post here! But I was intrigued, because I love albums that subvert expectations, and at least in its presentation, Spectrum was doing just that. But was it more than just a striking look? Let’s find out.

Spectrum reminded me of Ashbringer’s Absolution, one of the best Post-Metal albums of the 2010s. It carries that same sad, nostalgic, yet colorful tone—a rare perspective in a genre that often looks like a black flag. Sure, it’s harsh, intense, and complex in places, but it’s also playful and beautiful. A spectrum of emotions, if you will. The concept of using color as a framework is clever, even if it’s an obvious metaphor. Not many bands approach their music this way, with such a physical, almost tactile perspective. As someone with synesthesia, I felt unexpectedly seen and represented.

Initially, I was led to believe Am I in Trouble? was a Post/Black Metal album. But in reality, it’s so much more. From the heartbreaking vocals to the hauntingly ethereal flute work, this record defies convention. It carries an almost Sunbather vibe—bright, hopeful, yet still grounded in emotional depth. This isn’t what we’re used to in our extreme Metal corners. In fact, this is happy Metal that doesn’t feel corny—a challenging task. Any band that pulls this off deserves recognition from us, the uptight snobs and ravenous consumers alike.

Now, you might wonder if there’s anything I dislike about Spectrum. Well, there are a couple of small things. First, the guitars sound a bit thin at times, but this feels like a stylistic choice, so I can’t be too critical. The production leans into the Black Metal aesthetic in this regard. Second, some of you “tough guys” might find a few tracks a bit too mellow. But come on—don’t tell me songs like “Yellow” or “Black” don’t move you, even just a little.

At MER, we cover a lot of big names (for power, money, and greed, of course!) but sometimes, we remember why we do this in the first place: for the love of music and for the up-and-coming contenders. Against all odds, bands like Am I in Trouble? pour their hearts into their work, and perhaps that’s why Spectrum hits so hard. It feels like there’s genuine love behind every chord. Imagine that—an Avant-Garde Metal album that leaves you feeling whole rather than hollow. How refreshing! Also, the band sent me FLAC files for a proper review rather than a cheap MP3. That’s the kind of bribe I want!

Label:  The Bölverk Collective & Negative Span 

Release date: January 3, 2025

Website: https://ampwall.com/a/amiintrouble/album/spectrum

Country: USA

Score: H£ll with it! 4.0/5.0!