EMPATH Unleashes Heavy Rock Fury with Debut Album
Brace yourselves, metalheads! Copenhagen's heavy rock outfit EMPATH is ready to stomp the scene with their self-titled debut album, set to drop on November 13 via Indisciplinarian. This band, born from the ashes of the metal collective RISING, sees the formidable pairing of vocalist Morten Grønnegaard (also of QAISOR) and guitarist Jacob Krogholt (ANTI RITUAL) forging a new sonic path alongside bassist Kaspar Boye Larsen (VOLBEAT, ANTI RITUAL) and drummer Jeppe Munk Aakeson (KNYTNÆVE, IOTA). Their collaboration is nothing short of a seismic shift in the heavy rock landscape.
"Empath" consists of eight tracks that traverse a staggering range of influences, all wrapped up in a concise thirty-eight-minute journey. This album draws heavily from the heavy, progressive, and psychedelic rock and metal of the '70s and '80s, yet is revitalized with a contemporary touch. The production is organic, allowing the intricate melodies and heavy atmospherics to shine through, complete with synths that evoke the eerie nostalgia of vintage sci-fi soundtracks. EMPATH is clearly channeling the spirit of their musical idols while propelling their vision into uncharted territory.
Lyrically, "Empath" delves deep into the human condition, exploring the weight of ambition and the stark realities of a world grappling with climate change, inequality, and conflict. Drawing inspiration from the literary giants of science fiction and the experimental poets of the Romantic era, Grønnegaard's lyrics resonate with the existential dread and wonder that mark our modern existence. The album's themes echo the thoughts of luminaries like Arthur C. Clarke and William Blake, weaving a tapestry that is both timeless and hauntingly relevant.
Produced by Kaspar Boye Larsen and the band themselves, with mastering by the legendary Brad Boatright (known for his work with OBITUARY and THE ARMED), "Empath" also boasts striking cover art by Grønnegaard, encapsulating the album's essence. The first single, the psychedelic heavy rock anthem "Lyca's Lost," is already sending shockwaves across streaming platforms. This track poignantly addresses the alienation between generations through the lens of sci-fi, hinting at the vastness of parallel worlds and dimensions.
Fans eager to own a piece of this auditory journey can look forward to two exclusive vinyl variants—100 on transparent blue and 100 on black—alongside digital releases. The tracklist includes gems like "New Dawn," "Sisters Of Sorrow," and "Childhood's End," promising a full-bodied experience for listeners.
Mark your calendars, as EMPATH will take the stage live for the first time at "A Colossal Kind Of X-mas" at Hotel Cecil, Copenhagen, on December 11, joined by a lineup of heavy Danish talent. Keep your eyes peeled for more teasers and live dates as this promising new force in metal prepares to unleash their vision upon the world.