IN THIS MOMENT Unleashes 'Witch': A Bold Sonic Evolution
In a raw and revealing interview with Australia's Heavy, Chris Howorth, the co-founder and axe-slinger of IN THIS MOMENT, laid bare the tumultuous journey behind their upcoming ninth studio album, 'Witch', set to drop on August 28 through Better Noise Music. Howorth described the initial ambition for the record: an experimental beast with odd time signatures and a weighty sound that would challenge even the most ardent metalheads. However, as the band emerged from the studio with 12 tracks, a dose of self-reflection revealed that they may have strayed too far into the avant-garde. With the realization that they had pushed the envelope perhaps a bit too aggressively, the band decided to recalibrate, leading to the addition of three new tracks and reworkings of some existing material.
The production process saw a shift as they enlisted Drew Fulk to bring fresh energy to the new songs after their initial producer, Kane Churko, became unavailable. Howorth noted that this shift injected a unique flavor that ultimately shaped the album's vibe, creating a potent fusion of heavy and melodic elements. When asked if the first three singles—'Heretic', 'Sleeping With The Enemy', and 'Crawl'—truly represent the album's essence, Howorth affirmed, stating that they encapsulate the dual influences of both producers, delivering a heavy punch while also catering to fans craving melodic relief.
As the buzz around 'Witch' grows, the anticipation for the next single, 'I Want To Believe', featuring Rory Rodriguez from DAYSEEKER, is palpable. Howorth hinted at the track's more melodic nature, promising that it would resonate with listeners who may not be as entrenched in the heavier side of metal. This exploration of sound aligns with the band's ethos of evolution, which Howorth supports, declaring the record as their 'boldest chapter' yet.
Amid the creative struggles, Howorth candidly shared the challenges of knowing when they had gone too far in one direction. With vocalist Maria Brink often apprehensive about the heaviness, and Howorth favoring metal's weighty roots, the balance is an ongoing tug-of-war. The band ultimately relies on hindsight, reflecting on their work to assess what hits and what misses. This reflective process fuels their growth and evolution, ensuring that they stay true to their musical identity while boldly pushing boundaries.
Featuring guest appearances that elevate the album's intensity—like Kim Dracula on 'Heretic' and Kat Von D on a cover of PINK FLOYD's 'Another Brick In The Wall'—'Witch' promises to be a transformative listen. Brink herself described the album as a declaration of inner metamorphosis, embracing the duality of creation and struggle, and turning pain into strength. With tracks like 'Sleeping With The Enemy' already racking up over a million streams and garnering critical acclaim, the momentum for 'Witch' is undeniable. IN THIS MOMENT continues to carve their name into the annals of metal history, embodying the spirit of the genre as they forge ahead into uncharted territory.