Coheed and Cambria have unveiled their latest album, The Father of Make Believe, released through Virgin in March 2025. Coheed have established themselves as the masters of concept albums, with their earlier works forming part of ‘The Amory Wars’ and ‘Vaxis’ narratives, complemented by accompanying comic books.
The Father of Make Believe continues with these sagas but there is a twist! Traditionally, Sanchez has kept a low profile, but this latest release is said to be a more revealing experience—essentially a ‘mask off’ or ‘mid-life crisis’ moment. In this album, Sanchez steps into the spotlight as The Father of Make Believe, contemplating the expansive universe he has crafted through his music over the last twenty years.
The album begins beautifully with a track that undeniably feels like an introduction, titled ‘Yesterdays Lost,’ characterised by its gentle tone. Following this, ‘Goodbye Sunshine’ serves as an invigorating kickoff that propels us into the narrative. Next is ‘Searching For Tomorrow,’ an engaging track that captures a sense of anxiety before transforming into self-reassurance. As you explore the lyrics, you start to uncover some of the intricate ideas swirling in Sanchez’s multifaceted mind.
It’s a sentiment often echoed about music, but if there was ever an album that takes listeners on a journey—much like all Coheed albums do—this one certainly fulfils that promise as well.
The title song, ‘The Father of Make Believe,’ transports us back to that intense, bass-driven, progressive sound. As a fan, I find the lyrics particularly meaningful—could it be that Sanchez serves as a comforting presence for those who are struggling? Or is he saying that he is what people need/want him to be? We all recognise music’s power as a form of therapy for many. Take a look at the lyrics and come to your own conclusion:
When all the lines blur between all that’s wrong and right
‘The Father of Make Believe’ Chorus
Just take my hand when the monsters turn out the lights, oh
And you’ll find I’m not how you remember me
I’m the vision that you choose to see
The one you can hate or love as you need
In time’s absence, more than memory
So now, at your darkest, I come as promised
I’m The Father of Make Believe
Either way, it serves as what feels like a very personal song. We can’t not discuss ‘Blind Side Sony.’ At this juncture, I’m curious whether they intentionally strive to craft a distinct song (for them) with each album. It could easily belong to a thrash band, yet it fits perfectly in its place as track 6. This is a fast-moving, party anthem that carries a certain rough edge.
‘Someone Who Can’ is an upbeat summer tune, brimming with optimism and longing, evoking memories of our youthful days. Following this track, we enter The Continuum section of the album, which takes on a much more intense and cinematic feel while still delivering strength and impact.
There is undoubtedly a rich narrative woven throughout this album. For those experiencing Coheed and Cambria’s music for the first time, I believe you might find it beneficial to explore some of their earlier works beforehand. Otherwise, it can feel like you need to focus intently on the details, having a music video accompanying a song certainly enhances that experience.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that this album may take some time to fully appreciate. Initially, I listened to it in my car, but it wasn’t until I played it through my surround sound system after several listens that I felt ready to write this review. Be patient with it, and you will uncover the beauty, the enchantment, and the narrative within. This album offers a wealth of discoveries—various tales, emotions and paths that are waiting to be explored.
Claudio Sanchez embodies the essence of what is needed from a musician these days, you can see the passion running through his veins when they perform live, and when watching Coheed’s music videos. Like any exceptional band, Coheed and Cambria has amassed hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of fans who resonate with this intensity while experiencing their music. This shared passion courses through the veins of these listeners as well. They are undoubtedly a genuine rock star band that possesses an extraordinary ability to connect with people on a profoundly authentic level. We all need a story, a distraction, something to resonate with at times.
