Brazilian progressive power metal legends Angra recently signed a deal with German-based record label Atomic Fire Records. The band’s upcoming studio album “Cycles of Pain” is due out on November 3rd, 2023.
Today, Angrais pleased to announce that the record is already available for preorder before their first digital single, “Ride Into the Storm”, is unveiled to the world next week, on Friday, August 4th, 2023.
Guitarist Rafael Bittencourt states: “This is a very special record for us for several reasons: First, much has happened since our last release in 2018. During the last five years, we experienced a lot of pain — personally and collectively — alongside challenges, frustrations, glories, and successes, on a rollercoaster of emotions that became a giant cauldron of subjects and inspirations. In the year 2019, my father passed away and a few months later also Andre Matos died; that had a big impact on my life. I know the struggles of my bandmates too.
This is a dense album of experiences and accumulated pain. Although we are in a great moment, the album draws inspiration from all pains experienced to bring reflections on them from different angles: What hurts us, how it arrives, the cure, the trauma, the scars. We avoid and we are faced with pain constantly from birth, in an endless cycle; we want it to be far away, but it is what molds and matures us during life. And in the midst of such a profound topic, we want to bring hope and strength to people who are suffering right now. I believe this album will make a difference in the lives of many people and will set a new standard within our style.”
Bassist Felipe Andreoli: “‘Cycles of Pain’ brings different perspectives on human pain and the cycles that involve it. It reminds us that while pain is inevitable, it is also an integral part of growing and learning. By recognizing and facing these cycles, we can discover our inner strength and find a path to healing and transformation. The album leads us to contemplate our own journey of pain and to embrace the hope that despite the seemingly endless cycles, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. It is an invitation to reflect on the complexities of human pain, addressing topics such as loss, disillusionment, loneliness and despair, but also bringing a message of resilience and hope”.
“Cycles of Pain” was produced, recorded, mixed, and mastered by long-time Angra partner Dennis Ward (D.C. Cooper, Pink Cream 69, Place Vendome) at the Sonastério & Elephant Office in Brazil, while mixing and mastering took place at The TrakShak in Karlsdorf, Germany. Its artwork was designed by Erick Pasqua before Jonathan Canuto took care of layout duties.
“The combination of elements — an angel of death with bright, worn wings adorned with religious and pagan symbols, a dark forest with fire and rain, the prevalence of Brazilian elements — conveys a deeper narrative regarding the album’s theme and musical interpretation. It conveys the idea that pain is a recurring and transformative experience, encompassing spiritual and earthly aspects and encouraging us to delve into the depths of our own pain, explore its many dimensions and find strength and healing in the journey of these cycles”, explains Andreoli.
The album also features a range of guests including appearances by Amanda Somerville (“Tears of Blood”), Brazilian artists Lenine (“Vida Seca”) and Vanessa Moreno (“Tide Of Changes – Part II” and “Here in the Now”), and Juliana D’Agostini on piano (“Tears of Blood”).
“Cycles of Pain” will be available in the following formats: digipak CD, jewel case CD, vinyl in various color variants (Red/Yellow Split, Clear/Blue Marbled, Clear Yellow/White Splatter), and digitally.
Pre-order & pre-save “Cycles of Pain” here.
Tracklist:
1. Cyclus Doloris
2. Ride Into the Storm
3. Dead Man on Display
4. Tide of Changes – Part I
5. Tide of Changes – Part II
6. Vida Seca
7. Gods of the World
8. Cycles of Pain
9. Faithless Sanctuary
10. Here in the Now
11. Generation Warriors
12. Tears of Blood
Angra’s metal leadership began over thirty years ago in 1991. Hailing since then as one of the finest metal acts originating from South America, the last decade saw the addition of vocalist Fabio Lione (Athena Xix, ex-Rhapsody Of Fire, ex-Vision Divine etc.) to their ranks. With Rafael Bittencourt and Marcelo Barbosa on guitars, Felipe Andreoli on bass, and Bruno Valverde on drums, Angra has been keeping the momentum and now they are ready to release their long-awaited tenth studio album through their new label partner, Atomic Fire Records.
Live Shows 2023:
8/12/2023 Ópera De Arame – Curitiba, BR
10/28/2023 Festival Hora do Rock @ Arena Vale Fest – São José dos Campos, BR (new)
11/03/2023 Tokio Marine Hall (Album Release Show) – São Paulo, BR
11/18/2023 Armageddon Metal Fest – Joinville, BR
12/15/2023 Circo Voador – Rio de Janeiro, BR (new)
1/29-2/02/2024 70,000 Tons Of Metal – Miami, FL
Line-up:
Fabio Lione – Vocals
Rafael Bittencourt – Guitars
Marcelo Barbosa – Guitars
Felipe Andreoli – Bass
Bruno Valverde – Drums
