Vacuous Returns with ‘In His Blood’: A Bold Exploration of Death Metal

A New Era for Vacuous

London’s death metal powerhouse, Vacuous, makes a resounding comeback with their latest full-length album, In His Blood. This effort marks a significant evolution for the quintet, as they dive deeper into their roots while forging a distinctive sound within the extreme metal genre. Guitarist Michael Brodsky elaborates, stating, “Our goal was to pull in our personal influences from different genres of music, blending everything together and pushing it all to the extreme in a very bold way.”

Musical Influences and Songwriting Evolution

Vocalist Jo Chen shared insights in an exclusive interview, emphasizing the band’s exploration of various musical styles. “Musically, we looked a lot at goth and other non-death metal genres for inspiration, especially for the quieter sections. I have a lot of respect for bands who create visceral and vicious music from softer palettes,” Chen noted.

With a desire for catchier and more direct songwriting, Chen expressed his excitement, saying, “It’s an itch that I’ve been wanting to scratch but didn’t feel capable until this release.” With the support of producer Stanley Gravett, Chen transitioned from improvised lyrics to a more structured approach, resulting in a proud achievement of concrete, verse-chorus-verse compositions.

A Diverse Palette of Sounds

In His Blood is a testament to Vacuous’s creative growth, showcasing a rich tapestry of styles within a concise 31 minutes. The album serves as a compelling statement in the realm of modern death metal, with its infectious tracks and expanded sonic range.

Explorations of Dark Themes

Vacuous employs their refined sound to explore grim themes that permeate contemporary society, addressing the normalization of death, violence, and suffering. The album’s title and artwork draw inspiration from a chilling image of a man posing in the blood of his victim. Chen elaborates, stating, “I got obsessed with the idea. It spiraled into seeing the internet as this endless graveyard, and the final moments of your life can be stretched ad infinitum and therefore trivialized.”

Inspirations from Real-Life Events

Chen’s lyrical themes are influenced by various films and real-world tragedies. The track “Contraband” addresses the tragic fate of 39 Vietnamese migrants suffocated in a lorry while trying to reach England. Other topics explored include horror films, serial killers, school shootings, toxic masculinity, and the economic divide between the Global North and South. “Films such as Pulse and Red Rooms helped me make sense of it,” Chen reveals.

Standout Tracks and Personal Triumphs

The album features several standout moments, with the title track opening in an explosive manner, showcasing the band’s raw intensity. Tracks like “Hunger” and “Immersion” emphasize Vacuous’s ability to create haunting atmospheres. For Chen, the most significant moment occurred outside the studio, as he struggled with personal challenges during the album’s creation. He reflects, “I became seriously catatonic during the making of the album… it’s a miracle it was finished at all.”

Support from his bandmates and producer was crucial in helping him regain his footing, making the completion of In His Blood a personal triumph amidst adversity.

Conclusion

In His Blood represents both a musical and personal victory for Vacuous, establishing them as a formidable presence in the extreme music scene. With its expanded scope and thematic depth, the album stands as a pivotal moment in the band’s five-year journey, setting the stage for their future endeavors. Released today through Relapse Records, it invites listeners to delve into the band’s unique exploration of dark themes and intense sounds.

FAQs

What is the release date of Vacuous’s new album?

In His Blood was released on February 2025.

Who produced the album?

The album was produced by Stanley Gravett.

What themes does the album explore?

The album addresses themes such as death, violence, and societal voyeurism, drawing inspiration from real-life events and various media.

How long is the album?

The album has a total runtime of 31 minutes.

Where can I listen to the album?

The album is available for streaming and purchase through various music platforms and directly from Relapse Records.