Apathy and failure cover the modern world. “In the Shadow of the Cross“ confronts this reality, capturing humanity at its bleakest and most self-destructive. Nearly a decade after forming, Sacramento’s Anxious Arms continue to evolve, abandoning the remnants of their earlier alternative-rock leanings in favor of something heavier and much darker.

On their second album, the band leans fully into doom and metal, drawing clear influence from Crowbar and Black Sabbath while still carrying the imprint of their Sacramento roots, with lingerings of sounds influenced by Will Haven, Deftones, and Far at the band’s foundation. This version of Anxious Arms feels the most fully realized: a lineup unified in vision. With longtime producer Pat Hills, the band delivers its heaviest material to date, recorded live at Earthtone Studios that presents a raw sound at its core.

TRACK LISTING:
01. Let Rats Run
02. The Conqueror Worm
03. Through You
04. In the Shadow of the Cross
05. Crimson Shroud
06. Deep and Green
07. Vera Brittain
08. Growing in the Grave