It’s been a while since we’ve heard from CARNATION. The band formed early in 2013 from a shared appreciation for the death metal legends of the ’80s and early ’90s. Now, after claiming the crown as death metal’s new overlords with their last album, the Belgians are back with a new album that finds them forging into uncharted territory.
“Carnation fans will undoubtedly find what they have come to love and expect on ‘Cursed Mortality’, says vocalist Simon Duson. “However, they should also expect the unexpected’.
Today, the band are giving us a first glimpse at all the ways they’ve evolved over the past three years. The title track off their upcoming album still sounds like death metal. There are plenty of blast beats and the riffs reign down on you like molten rock from a volcano. But while Simon Duson’s death growl has only grown more sinister, “Cursed Mortality” is the first Carnation song to feature clean vocals. And at 7:40, it’s also one of their longest, a reflection on growing old that’s shadowed by gloomy synths, melancholic leads and life-long regrets.
“This song captures the essence of our musical evolution,” says Duson. “It’s an epic journey that explores a wide range of musical landscapes, all while looking back at life’s pivotal moments. Am I happy and satisfied with how I’ve lived my life? Where did it go wrong or right?”
See for yourself by watching the video, which unfolds like an episode of Black Mirror.
Carnation are drawing back the curtain on their second decade, which will officially begin when ‘Cursed Mortality’ is released November 3, 2023 on Season of Mist.
The album can be pre-saved HERE. Pre-sale will start later this summer.
The surreal cover art for “Cursed Mortality” was created by the late, great Mariusz Lewandowski, whose dark and surreal vision perfectly captures the feel of this album.
Lord of the Logos’ Christophe Szpajdel created a brand new logo and symbol to reflect this new era of Carnation.
Tracklist:
1.Herald of Demise (04:03) (feat. Andy LaRocque)
2.Maruta (04:07)
3.Metropolis (03:24)
4.Replicant (03:49)
5.Dutroux (03:48)
6.Submerged in Deafening Silence (04:26)
7.Cycle of Suffering (04:05)
8.Cursed Mortality (07:30) [WATCH HERE]
Line-up:
Simon Duson: Vocals
Jonathan Verstrepen: Lead Guitar
Bert Vervoort: Rhythm Guitar
Yarne Heylen: Bass Guitar
Vincent Verstrepen: Drums
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