Nepenthe (Photo by Alex Snape)
Canadian blackened doom upstarts Nepenthe are back with a powerfully atmospheric release, pairing their haunting 2020 EP Elegies of Loss and Doom with a fresh chapter in The Fading Promise of Tomorrow. Dropping November 15 via Hypaethral Records, this double feature promises to be both a culmination and an evolution of their signature sound.
“For this offering, we decided to pair Elegies of Loss and Doom with our new EP, The Fading Promise of Tomorrow,” the band shares. “Elegies hadn’t yet seen a physical release, but we also felt that Fading Promise captures the growth in our sound, bridging our past work and where we’re heading next.” The ambitious scope of The Fading Promise of Tomorrow is evident in the eponymous track, which leans heavily into neo-folk, ambient, and orchestral influences, combining choral vocals and spoken word with sweeping, instrumental passages. It’s a challenge the band set for themselves to show the depth and versatility of their artistry.
Nepenthe’s commitment to sonic exploration is apparent across both EPs, each track serving as a testament to their growth. The band remarks, “This release is a stepping stone in our journey, and with our first tour behind us, we’re eager for more – more shows, festivals, and opportunities to connect with fans.”
Dive into the premiere below and experience The Fading Promise of Tomorrow + Elegies of Loss and Doom in its entirety. Fans of Woods of Ypres, Warning, and anyone drawn to the darker recesses of doom and black metal won’t want to miss this expansive release, available for pre-order here.
Nepenthe Live
11/15/2024 – Futhark Records – Toronto, ON (Record Release Show)