Photo by: Max Holsbeke
Official press release:
On May 29th, Balmora will release their highly-anticipated debut album, These Graven Halls, through DAZE. Three years in the making, the record pushes the dynamics of metal, weaving elements of metalcore and melodic black metal with a futuristic touch. The lyrics build off self-reflection, tracing through anguish, deception, and power. Influences pull from the obvious like The Black Dahlia Murder and On Broken Wings to a mix of media, classical, and modern music – Requiem For A Dream, Silent Hill, Philip Glass, Bladee. As Balmora make significant impact in reaching their true self as a band, they bring in friends from I Promised The World, Upon Stone, Empty Shell Casing and Holder to feature on the album. These Graven Halls was recorded at The Source in New Haven, CT with production, engineering, and mixing by band members Chaz Torok and Jay Torblaa, and mastering by Brad Boatright at Audiosiege.
Single “Ophelia” is an absolute frenzy moving between nerve triggering riffs and delicate melodies. Vocalist Paul Cole’s aggressive range gets an assist as Brie Percy of Holder lends her fearsome pipes to the track. The song ends with a heavy rhythmic breakdown that is sure to get fans moving at Balmora’s upcoming shows.
Guitarist Jay Torblaa shares on the track’s lyrics:
“‘Ophelia’ is a story of betrayal, heartbreak, revenge, and forgiveness. It’s meant to highlight the nature of initial anger, action, and remorse in a hanging balance system.”
Stream “Ophelia” HERE and find a visualizer below.
These Graven Halls is available for preorder through DAZE.
Alongside the album release, Balmora have a packed tour schedule ahead. Tomorrow, the band will join up with Poison The Well, Converge, and Spy for a twelve date North American tour. In June, Balmora will headline across the US with support from label mates Holder and Azshara. Then in July they’ll join the Summer Slaughter Tour with Hatebreed, Devourment, Incantation, Snuffed on Sight, and Face Yourself, including appearances at Hellfest and The Rumble. Full dates below and tickets on sale now at Balmorametal.com.
These Graven Halls track listing:
- “Balmora”
- “Ammonite” feat. DJ PUNCHDRUNK (Empty Shell Casing)
- “Ophelia” feat. Brie Percy (Holder)
- “…an apology everlasting…”
- “The Beautiful Writing” feat. Hunter Wilson (I Promised The World)
- “Inheritance & Solitude”
- “Needles & Rags”
- “The Day You Died”
- “Augustyne” feat. Xavier (Upon Stone)
- “…an effigy to the star of all sorrow…”
- “Moon Light Hysteria”
- “Timor Mortis”
- “NGV” feat. LdPckWntr, LORD THOMPXZON, k420k
