Inner struggle incites outward expression. Any Given Sin transfigure conflict into caustic and catchy hard rock punctuated by metallic intensity and alternative intimacy. The Maryland quartet—Victor Ritchie [vocals], Mike Conner [guitar], Rich Stevenson [bass], and Mike Showalter [drums]—encase these unrestrained emotions inside arena-size anthems with bold hooks and bludgeoning riffs. Amassing nearly 20 million streams, buzzing at radio, and building a devout fan base, the group perfect this pummeling and powerful style on their 2023 full-length debut LP, War Within [Mascot Records].

“We tried to hit a lot of vibes on this record as far as the content and context are concerned,” notes Ritchie. “For the most part, it’s all based around inner turmoil, but you’re moving forward. I hope you pick up on the message of never giving up.”

Over the years, the band’s grind yielded major traction as they tirelessly wrote, recorded, and honed a signature sound. In 2021, “Another Life” generated north of 5.2 million Spotify streams followed by “Dynamite” with 4.5 million Spotify streams. “Dynamite” and “Insidious” both cracked the Top 40 at Active Rock radio in addition to catapulting to #1 on SiriusXM, overtaking the fan-powered “Big ‘Uns Countdown.” Meanwhile, they also hit the studio with collaborators such as John Moyer of Disturbed and Trevor Kustiak of Evans Blue. Eventually, they met producer Chris Dawson [Saul] and found a creative kindred spirit.

“Chris definitely brought us into more modern spaces,” adds Conner. “He’s an integral part of the process. He pushed us out of the box and steered us towards a different path.”

Taking the next step on this path with Dawson behind the board, they bulldoze the way for the album with the single “Calm Before The Storm.” On the track, keyboards augment the verses with cinematic scope as guitars power up an undeniable chant, “I’m making no apologies.”

“It’s a song about perseverance,” says the frontman. “You’re standing up to whatever’s in front of you.”

“You’re not just surviving a traumatic experience though,” Conner elaborates. “You’re also becoming stronger because of it.”

On the title track, the guitars bludgeon in lockstep with a head-nodding groove. Ritchie’s arresting delivery echoes before the chorus issues a proclamation, “This is the war within.”

“It’s a free speech song,” reveals Ritchie. “I’m brushing back on that culture a little bit, because everyone is afraid to talk right now.”

Representing the emotional apex of the record, “Cold Bones” leans on soft piano. These icy tones underscore a vulnerable, yet vital vocal performance just before the distortion kicks back in underneath the refrain. As a military vet often faced with the horrible news of duty’s permanent scars, Ritchie dug deep inside himself for the lyrics.

“I wrote it by myself on the piano,” he recalls. “I was in the military for seven years, and I had a lot of friends unfortunately commit suicide. We lost too many of our buddies in Iraq and Afghanistan. This song is definitely about those people, but it could be for anyone who has lost a friend under similar circumstances.”

Ramping up the momentum, sirens herald the onset of the roaring “House On Fire.” With a one-two punch of raw riffing and walloping bass, the momentum bleeds into another chantable chorus.

“It’s about the condition of the world,” notes Conner. “It’s just getting worse and worse. The fire’s growing bigger. Will we ever be able to put it out?”

“We’re all trapped in it,” agrees Ritchie.

“Dynamite” rounds out War Within as a fist-pumping staple, while the finale “Still Sinking” echoes with identifiable pain. Presenting a 360-degree vision, the album cover holds a special significance for the band as it pairs their respective star signs with a personal vice. “It essentially displays the Seven Deadly Sins,” Mike goes on. “We’re admitting to the sin we struggle with on the cover. It speaks to our band name as well.”

By sharing their trials, tribulations, and triumphs, Any Given Sin ultimately offer a communal catharsis for fans to partake in.

“When you listen to us, we hope you feel like you’re not alone,” Ritchie leaves off. “No matter what you’re dealing with, the music shows is a reminder that someone hears you.”

“A lot of it may sound dark and depressing, but there’s a positive message,” Conner concludes. “Keep going.”