Horse Lords Announce New Album & Tour, Share New Singles

Horse Lords are gearing up for the release of Demand to Be Taken to Heaven Alive!, their new album arriving June 12 via RVNG Intl. The announcement comes with the release of two new singles, “Eureka 378-B” and “Brain of the Firm,” both accompanied by visually striking videos directed by artist Scott Kiernan. The band has similarly confirmed a robust touring schedule, spanning North America and Europe, in support of the record.

This marks a significant evolution for the experimental rock group, as Demand to Be Taken to Heaven Alive! is their first album to incorporate vocals. Recorded across both Berlin and Baltimore, the album builds upon the core lineup of Owen Gardner, Max Eilbacher, Sam Haberman, and Andrew Bernstein, expanding their sound with the addition of bass clarinetist Madison Greenstone, trombonist Weston Olencki, and vocalists Nina Guo and Evelyn Saylor.

A Shift in Sound and Scope

Horse Lords have steadily built a reputation for their complex, rhythmically driven instrumental work. Their previous album, 2022’s Comradely Objects, was lauded for its intricate arrangements and post-punk energy. Pitchfork’s review of Comradely Objects highlighted the band’s ability to create “a sense of propulsion and unease” through their unconventional instrumentation and dynamic interplay. The introduction of vocals on Demand to Be Taken to Heaven Alive! represents a deliberate step towards broadening their sonic palette and exploring new avenues of expression.

Touring Plans: From Minneapolis to Europe

The band isn’t just releasing an album; they’re hitting the road hard. A summer North American tour will see Horse Lords performing in cities like Minneapolis, Madison, and Los Angeles. Beyond the US, they’ve scheduled a brief European run in Belgium and Italy in May, followed by a more extensive tour across the continent in November. Specific dates and venues are yet to be fully detailed, but the commitment to live performance underscores the band’s desire to connect with audiences directly. You can locate more information about the tour schedule on Pitchfork’s coverage of the album announcement.

RVNG Intl.: A Home for Experimental Sounds

The choice of RVNG Intl. As the label for Demand to Be Taken to Heaven Alive! is noteworthy. RVNG Intl. Has a long history of supporting forward-thinking and experimental artists, often operating on the fringes of mainstream music. Founded by Jordan Roth, the label has released work by artists like Visible Cloaks and Julianna Barwick, fostering a community of musicians who prioritize innovation and sonic exploration. RVNG Intl.’s website showcases their commitment to pushing boundaries and providing a platform for unique voices.

Tracklist and Artistic Direction

The album’s tracklist offers a glimpse into the sonic landscape of Demand to Be Taken to Heaven Alive!:

01 Eureka 378-B
02 Brain of the Firm
03 Rotation I
04 Playing and Reality
05 Rotation II
06 First Galactic Utopia
07 Rotation III
08 Before the Law
09 After the Last Sky
10 A City Yet to Reach
11 Second Galactic Utopia
12 Demand to Be Taken to Heaven Alive!

The titles themselves suggest a blend of abstract concepts and concrete imagery, hinting at a lyrical and musical depth that extends beyond the band’s previous work. The collaboration with Scott Kiernan on the music videos further emphasizes the band’s commitment to a holistic artistic vision, integrating visual and sonic elements to create a cohesive and immersive experience.

Beyond the Album: A Legacy of Innovation

Horse Lords’ inclusion at No. 95 in Pitchfork’s “The 100 Best Songs of 2022” for “May Brigade” demonstrates the band’s critical acclaim and influence within the experimental music scene. This recognition, coupled with their consistent output and willingness to challenge conventional musical structures, has solidified their position as a vital force in contemporary rock. The band’s willingness to experiment and push boundaries has garnered them a dedicated following and earned them the respect of their peers.

What’s next for Horse Lords?

The immediate focus is on the album release and the upcoming tour. Beyond that, the band has not publicly announced any specific plans. However, given their track record of innovation and their commitment to live performance, it’s safe to assume that Horse Lords will continue to explore new sonic territories and challenge expectations. Fans can anticipate further evolution and experimentation as the band continues to refine their unique sound and expand their artistic vision.