Image: Killswitch Engage [Official Press Photo]
When you think of metalcore, Killswitch Engage is the first name that comes to mind. The band from Massachusetts has taken the genre to a whole new level. Since the early 2000s, with albums like Alive or Just Breathing, The End of Heartache, and As Daylight Dies, they’ve shaped not only the sound but also the atmosphere of countless fans—both live and on record.
We’ve taken a deep dive into their discography and put together our personal list of the 10 best Killswitch Engage songs. Whether you’re a long-time diehard fan or just discovering their music, here’s your guide through the highlights of Killswitch Engage!
I Believe
The track “I Believe” comes from their 2025 album This Consequence, where Killswitch Engage, with Jesse Leach on vocals, spread a message of hope:
"'I Believe' is about undying hope," says Leach. "During difficult times perspective is everything. Knowing deep down that 'this too shall pass' has been a beacon of light for me. I do believe there is meaning behind suffering. If we are able to push through difficult times and come out the other side, there is a renewed sense of purpose."
This Is Absolution
This track is featured on their 2006 album As Daylight Dies and is one of the most celebrated songs from the record, recorded with Howard Jones on vocals.
This Fire
“This Fire” also stands out as one of the highlights from As Daylight Dies and became the official theme song for WWE Judgment Day 2006 as well as wrestler CM Punk’s entrance track.
Fixation On The Darkness
A fan favorite from KSE’s second studio album Alive or Just Breathing (2002), before Jesse Leach left the band until his return in 2012. The album features lyrics with religious undertones, and “Fixation On The Darkness” specifically explores the nature of the human soul, which Leach says must balance both light and darkness.
Hate by Design
The second single from Incarnate (2016) was “Hate by Design”, where Leach delivers a clear message against division and hate. In an interview with Loudwire, the singer said, “We definitely need to start treating each other a lot better.” The song combines social commentary with the kind of raw energy fans know and love from KSE’s heavier side.
Holy Diver
Next up is a cover, a true homage to Ronnie James Dio himself, reimagined through the grit of Howard Jones’ vocals and Killswitch Engage’s signature heavy guitars. “Holy Diver” appears on the As Daylight Dies (2006) Special Edition.
The End Of Heartache
Featured in "Resident Evil: Apocalypse" and nominated for a Grammy in the “Best Metal Performance” category, this song marked a true breakthrough moment for Killswitch Engage. The self-titled album was released in 2004 and was their first without original vocalist Jesse Leach.
My Last Serenade
Let’s return once again to Alive or Just Breathing with one of the band’s most iconic singles, “My Last Serenade.” It’s a track that still moves crowds today, just as it did back in the early 2000s, and remains a staple of every live set.
Rose Of Sharyn
Another timeless classic from The End of Heartache, “Rose of Sharyn” is emotionally charged in every sense and continues to be a highlight of Killswitch Engage’s live performances.
My Curse
“My Curse” deals with grief and loss and even reached the Top 80 of the Billboard Mainstream Rock charts. The 2006 single remains Killswitch Engage’s most successful song to date. Perfect excuse to spin As Daylight Dies in full once again for that hit of nostalgia.
