Finnish metal band Sonata Arctica has released a new single, "Dark Empath," as a preview of their upcoming album "Clear Cold Beyond." The song is a continuation of the fan-favorite "Don't Say A Word" from 2004 and is part of a larger story that began on their second album, "Silence," in 2001. The theme of stalking provides a framework for the story, which features recurring characters experiencing variations of being pursued.
The new album, set to be released on March 8th, marks a return to the band's metal roots after several softer albums. Lead singer Tony Kakko says the band wanted to include more upbeat songs that would be crowd-pleasers at their live shows. The album features faster-paced tracks that fans can sing along to, and the band is excited to see how audiences react to the new material.
The tracklist for "Clear Cold Beyond" includes 11 original songs and two bonus tracks, including a cover of Martika's "Toy Soldiers." The album will be available on CD, vinyl, and digital formats.
Sonata Arctica consists of Tony Kakko on vocals, Elias Viljanen on guitar, Pasi Kauppinen on bass, Henrik "Henkka" Klingenberg on keyboard, and Tommy Portimo on drums. "Dark Empath" is available now as a digital single.
