Official press release:
Formed by an all-star cast of scene veterans, heavy metal force Sumerlands burst out of the proverbial gates with a fully-formed sound on their GuardianSputnik Music, No Clean Singing, and Pitchfork, the latter of which stated that “Sumerlands sounds like Cirith Ungol and every lost ’80s American power metal band on steroids of steel, getting swole and flexing their might.”
Now, Relapse Records is proud to join forces with Sumerlands for the release of their mammoth self-titled debut full-length of classic heavy metal. Inspired by the timeless, guitar-driven sound of the ’70s and ’80s, Sumerlands features former Hour Of 13/Atlantean Kodex vocalist Phil Swanson as well as renowned producer Arthur Rizk (Inquisition, Power Trip, Pissgrave) on guitars and behind the boards. Powerful guitar riffs and galloping rhythms meld flawlessly together with soaring vocals and pristine production to create strong, hook-filled, moody anthems. This is a new wave of American heavy metal at its finest.
Additionally, Sumerlands features artwork by the legendary Jos. A. Smith, the renowned and prolific artist who originally created the Bathory goat in the ’70s. The album is due out this September 16th on CD, LP, and digitally. Physical preorders and packages are available via Relapse.com and digital pre-orders can be placed at the band’s official Bandcamp page.
Hear Sumerlands’ first single “The Guardian” now via MetalSucks below:
Sumerlands track listing:
1. “Seventh Seal”
2. “The Guardian”
3. “Timelash”
4. “Blind”
5. “Haunted Forever”
6. “Spiral Infinite”
7. “Lost My Mind”
8. “Sumerlands”
Sumerlands debut live performance will be held this October 1st at Union Pool in Brooklyn, New York with Eternal Champion, Crypt Sermon, and Chain, with additional shows to be announced soon.
Sumerlands is:
Phil Swanson – vocals
Arthur Rizk – guitar, synths
Justin De Tore – drums
John Powers – guitar
Brad Raub – bass