Evergrey Releases ‘Say’ from Upcoming ‘Theories Of Emptiness,’ Anticipated for Colombian Concert

Evergrey, hailing from Gothenburg, continues to sculpt its path in the metal genre with the forthcoming release, ‘Theories Of Emptiness.’ Scheduled for a June 7th, 2024 release through Napalm Records, the album heralds a significant step in their storied trajectory. Its lead single, ‘Say,’ accompanied by a compelling music video, marries raw guitar riffs with ethereal keyboards, setting a new standard in melodic progressive metal. This track exemplifies the album’s complex emotional and musical layers, reflective of Evergrey’s signature style that melds dark themes with robust metal elements.

In anticipation of the album, ‘Say’ has garnered attention for its infectious chorus and robust live potential, reflecting the band’s strategic musical direction. The album is produced by band members Tom S. Englund and Jonas Ekdahl, with Adam “Nolly” Getgood, formerly of Periphery, enhancing the mix to bring out its intricate sonic qualities. Mastering was undertaken by Thomas “Plec” Johansson, known for his work with diverse acts across the metal scene, ensuring a polished final product.

Evergrey, a Swedish progressive metal band, has carved a distinctive niche in the music world since its inception in 1995. Founded in Gothenburg, Sweden, by vocalist and guitarist Tom S. Englund, the band has consistently been at the forefront of combining melodic intensity with deeply introspective lyrical themes.

Evergrey was established in a period marked by a burgeoning interest in progressive metal, characterized by its complexity and technical proficiency. The band’s debut album, ‘The Dark Discovery’ (1998), was a musical compilation and a narrative exploration of dark and philosophical themes, setting the tone for future projects. This album and its follow-up, ‘Solitude, Dominance, Tragedy’ (1999), showcased the band’s early sound—a blend of heavy guitar riffs and atmospheric synth layers underscored by Englund’s distinctive vocal style.

The release of ‘In Search of Truth’ (2001), a concept album inspired by alien abduction, marked a pivotal moment in Evergrey’s career. The album’s narrative depth and musical sophistication resonated widely, garnering critical acclaim. Songs like ‘The Masterplan’ and ‘Rulers of the Mind’ exhibited technical prowess and explored the human condition, a recurring theme in their work.

Evergrey continued to expand its sonic and narrative scope with ‘Recreation Day’ (2003) and ‘The Inner Circle’ (2004). The latter, another concept album, focused on religious manipulation and personal turmoil, reflecting the band’s growing confidence in tackling complex issues through a multi-layered narrative approach. These albums contributed significantly to the band’s reputation for producing thought-provoking music that challenges listeners’ intellect and emotions.

‘Monday Morning Apocalypse’ (2006) and ‘Torn’ (2008) saw Evergrey adopting a slightly more accessible sound while retaining their trademark lyrical and thematic depth. This period was crucial for expanding their international fan base, as the band toured extensively across Europe and North America, bringing their unique brand of metal to a broader audience.

The 2010s brought a return to the darker, more introspective style with ‘Glorious Collision’ (2011) and ‘Hymns for the Broken’ (2014). These albums, particularly the latter, were noted for their introspective examination of personal and societal fragmentation. ‘The Storm Within’ (2016) and ‘The Atlantic’ (2019) further cemented Evergrey’s status, with the latter album completing a trilogy that explored themes of despair, hope, and rebirth—metaphorically traversing through life’s tumultuous seas.

Throughout their discography, Evergrey has maintained a high level of musical craftsmanship and consistency in thematic exploration. Englund’s lyrics often delve into personal and collective human experiences, making their music universally relatable. Each album is a chapter in an ongoing narrative of human resilience and vulnerability, set against compelling melodies and intricate musical arrangements.

The cultural backdrop of Sweden significantly colors Evergrey’s music, lending it a distinctly Nordic essence that distinguishes it within the metal genre. Sweden, known for its long, dark winters and equally profound historical narratives, permeates the mood and themes of Evergrey’s compositions. This influence is evident not only in the thematic darkness that characterizes much of their work but also in their lyrics’ introspective and often melancholic tone. For instance, the pervasive solitude and introspection found in albums like Solitude, Dominance, and Tragedy mirror the introspective solitude that can come from the Swedish environment.

Moreover, with its rich tapestry of myths and legends, Scandinavian folklore often explores themes of destiny and the inexorable forces of nature—themes that resonate through Evergrey’s music. The mythological allusions and the exploration of fate versus personal agency in their lyrics can be seen as a modern reinterpretation of these ancient narratives. By integrating such elements, Evergrey contributes to the global appreciation of Scandinavian culture and reinforces the genre’s connection to regional heritage.

Spanning eleven tracks, ‘Theories Of Emptiness’ is more than just a sequence of songs; it is a narrative arc that explores contrasts — from the aggression of ‘Misfortune’ to the introspective ‘Our Way Through Silence.’ Notably, ‘Cold Dreams’ features a collaboration with Jonas Renkse of Katatonia, enriching the album’s texture. Additional vocal layers provided by Englund’s daughter, Salina, further diversify the album’s sound, emphasizing its familial and collaborative spirit.

This album continues the progression of its predecessor, 2022’s ‘A Heartless Portrait (The Orphean Testament),’ which achieved significant chart success. With each release, Evergrey aims to redefine its sound and approach, incorporating fresh musical ideas and production techniques, ensuring its music remains dynamic and engaging.

Evergrey’s commitment to innovation in their sound and deep connection with fans are poised to make ‘Theories Of Emptiness’ a milestone in their career. As they prepare for the album’s release and subsequent promotional tour, including a notable stop in Bogotá on June 13th, 2024, the band stands on the precipice of a new era in their musical journey, promising to deliver performances that resonate with long-time followers and new listeners.