It's not hard to feel old when armed with the knowledge that Anberlin - the alternative rock band who've been a significant mainstay in our teenage playlists - have been in existence for 12 long years. The Floridian quintet are calling it quits this year with the recent release of Lowborn, their seventh and final full-length album. Their final tour takes them across the world over the United States, United Kingdom, Australia and more, including a stop in Singapore this September.

It all comes full circle for Anberlin as they return to the patronage of their first label Tooth & Nail Records - the label renowned for repping other Christian rock outfits including Underoath, Emery and MewithoutYou. Fans will surely remember that early Anberlin classics were released through Tooth & Nail through 2003 to 2007 with their debut Blueprints For The Black Market, the sophomore effort Never Take Friendship Personal and arguably their best record Cities. 

Lowborn however is the accumulation of all their past influences; a showcase of Anberlin at their most mature, reflecting true artistic freedom for the band who are now liberated from any sort of expectation or pressure. “I wanted to enjoy the creative process one more time, with no restrictions, no one breathing down my neck for a single,” lead vocalist Stephen Christian mentions. “Just unadulterated creative freedom.”

The final swansong of a record feels more like a celebration of what Anberlin have achieved both in the studio and onstage. “Usually breakups happen quickly and suddenly, an implosion of sorts,” rhythm guitarist McAlhaney comments. “What is unique about the end of Anberlin is that we discussed where people were at in their lives, what that meant for the band, and then made plans for the end on our own terms.”

Anberlin seem to hold Singapore very close to their hearts, performing here numerous times back in 2007 (at the Glass Pavilion with Copeland and Wakemeup Music acts), 2009 (in Baybeats) and just last year even (in Live! Empire's Shut Up And Listen at The Coliseum). Those who've missed out on their previous shows here can finally catch them in their farewell show at TAB Singapore come September 12th, courtesy of the folks at Upsurge Productions. It's been a great 12 years for the band, but it's time for that final Feel Good Drag and bid them Godspeed in their future endeavours.

Anberlin Live in Singapore 

Get your tickets here