ANATHEMA Frontman: 'We Undoubtedly Have Our Best Music Ahead Of Us'

ANATHEMA frontman Vincent Cavanagh has issued the following update:

"No, we're not dead. We had a couple of injuries, but nothing life-threatening. In fact we have not stopped recording here at Les' Sewerside Studios and have now completed demos for 11 of the 14 songs that are in contention for the new album. Over the next week we should have the other three in the bag (musically; a few lyrics to be finished). After that it's back to the pracky room in Liverpool to get in shape for our upcoming tour and festivals. Like you, we are waiting for news from record companies; the ball is in their court. Meanwhile we'll be constantly writing and developing the songs. It looks like festivals will take up most of July. As soon as they're done we'll begin recording the bloody thing! Then, more touring and the cycle continues!

"So, contrary to [rumors], we're not splitting up while we undoubtedly have our best music ahead of us, and yes... it is taking as long as TOOL or RADIOHEAD, but if that's what it has taken to finish an album worthy of such esteemed company, then thats OK by me. For anyone less patient, come see us live soon; we might just give you a taste. It's easy for me, of course. I listen to this stuff every day."

ANATHEMA has set "Everything" as the title of its new album, tentatively due later in the year.

ANATHEMA is currently unsigned as a result of having been dropped by BMG/Zomba after its previous label, Music For Nations, was folded into parent company Zomba Records Group (the world's largest independent music group).

"Everything" projected track listing:

01. Thin Air (Ann Further)
02. Bricks (working title)
03. Lightning Song
04. Sunlight
05. Get Off. Get Out. (working title)
06. Angels Walk Among Us
07. Everything
08. A Simple Mistake
09. Voodoo (working title)
10. Masters (No One Is Free)
11. Paradigm Shift
12. Hindsight

Commented ANATHEMA mastermind Daniel Cavanagh: "What I love about this record is the character it seems to have. The songs belong together. There is purpose and focus. And it shines. Brightly.

"The message is one of hope. Of the absolute certainty that there is a better way. There is always a better way. There is always a solution, a purpose. It only remains for us to be open to it. To bring ourselves back into harmony with a larger system. That harmony begins by bringing ourselves back into balance within ourselves. All the ancient sages and wise people have said it. Change starts with the individual.

"Some of these songs are a little more melancholy, and some of them are euphoric. They all have one thing in common in that they are all very much from the heart, and they are dripping with emotion.

"This is the greatest record we have ever made. I know it in my heart. All we need do now is find the right engineer/producer and the right studio. And to remain focused. . . We will play every day and we will leave no stone unturned in pursuit of brilliance. Of a new way to express these feelings.

"I put my faith that the greater mind can bring everything into place for us to make this record. A record that will certainly affect some people. I do not wish to sound pretentious but I know it will change lives. This is what music does. It moves people in a way no other form of art does.

"Because our inspiration is of a pure source, and because our intentions are genuinely to reach people and open them up to new ways of feeling and thinking, I have every faith that whatever we need to make this happen will come to us."