SYLOSIS: 'Mercy' Video Released

UK modern thrashers SYLOSIS will release their fourth studio album, "Dormant Heart", on January 12, 2015 via Nuclear Blast. The CD was produced by SYLOSIS frontman Josh Middleton with the help of engineer Scott Atkins and was mastered by TESSERACT guitarist Acle Kahney.

The official video for the new track "Mercy" can be seen below.

Commented Middleton: "'Mercy' is the first single off the new album. It's got a pretty dark and heavy vibe to it but it's one of the most melodic tracks on the album at the same time. It's got a big slow, doomy outro with an octave pedal on the guitars so that's going to rumble some guts live.

"For this video, we wanted to keep it dark and claustrophobic. It's got some of the artwork from the album and inlay illustrated as well which came together really well."

The cover artwork for "Dormant Heart" was created by Bristol-based artist Bonfire (OPETH, SATYRICON, KATATONIA),who has previously designed some t-shirts for the band. On the theme of the artwork, Josh comments: "The cover relates to sacrifice (the sacrificial lamb is more of a symbol than something to be taken literally) but also the looming, oppressing figure in the background represents corruption and being forced into something against your will."

Despite its title, "Dormant Heart" is not a peaceful album: It's about a powerful force unleashing anger against everyday injustice and a sleeping society that lets these things wash over them.

"It's the most pissed off, aggressive and intense album we've done, yet it still retains the epic, progressive and melodic side we're also known for," reveals Middleton. "It's a very gloomy and atmospheric album. We've been through a lot as a band and individuals and we've made our darkest album to date.

"The title refers to people going through life on autopilot and being one of the herd, how a lot of people simply accept the way things are just because it's 'tradition' as opposed to taking a good look at the world around you and thinking for yourself. Sometimes there are catalysts that happen and change our perspective or consciousness."

SYLOSIS began tracking the new album back in March 2014, working away secretly alongside touring commitments. Drum tracks were recorded in May at Monkey Puzzle Studios by original drummer Rob Callard, who parted ways with the band last month due to time restraints. After filling in for some live shows during SYLOSIS' spring 2014 tour, BLEED FROM WITHIN's drummer Ali Richardson is now a permanent member of the band.

"It was great doing some of the recording with Scott again," Middleton says. "We've got a good working relationship and he's really dedicated to what he does. We like to strive for a very earthy and organic sound. It adds to the human element and brings out the intensity and vibe in the music."

SYLOSIS is:

Josh Middleton – Vocals & Guitars
Alex Bailey - Guitars
Carl Parnell - Bass
Ali Richardson - Drums