Exploring the Depths of All Men Unto Me
Introduction to Ryan Gleave and All Men Unto Me
Many readers of Decibel magazine may recognize multi-instrumentalist Ryan Gleave from his pivotal role in the Scottish progressive black metal band Ashenspire. When Gleave isn’t captivating audiences as the frontman of Ashenspire, he immerses himself in his classical music pursuits, for which he has received numerous awards. Additionally, he is the creative force behind his avant-garde project, All Men Unto Me.
New Single: “Lux Æterna”
All Men Unto Me’s latest single, “Lux Æterna,” taken from their forthcoming album Requiem, defies easy classification. The track blends elements from the noise rock and sludge genres, drawing inspiration from notable artists like Lingua Ignota, Kayo Dot, and Swans. The composition is marked by a quiet intensity that builds toward brief yet powerful moments of heaviness.
Emotional Vocals and Themes
Gleave’s vocals stand out as particularly poignant and emotive, slicing through the somber soundscape with clarity. He articulates the song’s message, stating, “‘Lux Æterna’ condemns the kind of love that demands everything from you. It speaks to feeling the weight of loving someone who can’t—or won’t—understand your sacrifices.”
A Personal Reflection
Gleave reflects on his upbringing, noting that he was taught that forgiving others could lead to divine forgiveness. This mindset fostered a sense of self-neglect that he initially perceived as virtuous. He elaborates, “There’s a deep suffering in that kind of love and forgiveness; bleeding for someone who doesn’t understand how much they’ve hurt you, forgiving someone solely because you know they’re carrying their own pain. It can make you very small.”
Visual Accompaniment: The Music Video
The music video for “Lux Æterna,” directed and edited by Tobias Holmbeck, enhances the song’s themes of religious trauma and emotional depth. The visuals depict a protagonist traversing a dreamlike cemetery into a crypt, symbolizing a journey toward an unending death. Gleave notes, “The forgiveness might be perpetual, but so is the suffering. There’s no virtue in forgiving everyone but yourself.”
Upcoming Album: Requiem
Requiem is set to release on June 27, promising to deliver more introspective and avant-garde sounds from All Men Unto Me. With “Lux Æterna” as a compelling preview, fans eagerly await the album’s full exploration of Gleave’s intricate themes and emotional landscapes.
Conclusion
Ryan Gleave’s work with All Men Unto Me pushes the boundaries of genre while delving into profound emotional and thematic territory. As listeners prepare for the release of Requiem, “Lux Æterna” serves as a haunting reminder of the complexities of love, sacrifice, and forgiveness.
FAQs
What genre does All Men Unto Me belong to?
All Men Unto Me blends elements of noise rock and sludge, drawing influences from various avant-garde artists.
Who is Ryan Gleave?
Ryan Gleave is a multi-instrumentalist known for his work in the band Ashenspire and his solo project All Men Unto Me, where he explores themes of emotional depth and complexity.
When is the album Requiem set to release?
The album Requiem is scheduled for release on June 27.
What is the theme of the single “Lux Æterna”?
“Lux Æterna” reflects on the burdens of love and forgiveness, particularly the pain of loving someone who cannot appreciate the sacrifices made for them.
Who directed the music video for “Lux Æterna”?
The music video for “Lux Æterna” was directed and edited by Tobias Holmbeck.
