Prog metal powerhouse Distance of Thought has released the 2026 remastered version of their evocative track “Touch My Name”, complete with updated sound and new visuals.
Melding atmospheric intensity with profound thematic weight, the track stands as a powerful progressive metal tribute to Vietnam War veterans, exploring the deeply personal scars of war, loss, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
The song stands as a profound tribute to the veterans of the Vietnam War, those who sacrificed their lives, and the families who continue to carry their memory.
Guitarist and songwriter Dale Rasco shares the profound meaning behind the composition:
“‘Touch My Name’ as concept was all Jeff’s idea but became a very personal song for me because I grew up with a father who served three tours in Vietnam, earned three Purple Hearts, and spent much of his life carrying the effects of PTSD and Agent Orange poisoning.
As much as I loved the original, I always felt there was something more we could bring out emotionally. For this re-release, we re-recorded key parts of the song, and I truly believe this version captures the heart, weight, and emotion we envisioned from the very beginning.
More than anything, I hope this song serves as a fitting tribute to those whose names are etched in stone—and to the families who continue to carry their stories. Their sacrifice deserves to be remembered, and if this song helps keep even one of those stories alive, then we’ve accomplished exactly what we set out to do”.
Keyboardist Jeff Quiggle continues: “On ‘Touch My Name’, I was heavy into war documentaries for a while, and I got really involved with Vietnam and its memorials. I was REALLY taken back by the ‘wall memorial’ in DC. And right then, the concept of ‘Touch My Name’ came to my head and so the song was born with the help from my brothers Drew and Dale!! So, enjoy, and do not forget our veterans”.
With a vocal performance that balances raw vulnerability and sheer power, singer Drew guides the listener through a haunting narrative of remembrance.
Vocalist Drew Brown says: “On this July the 4th holiday, the 250th anniversary of the official establishment of my home as an independent nation, we are pleased to re-release a remix/remaster of a song that is very important to us. ‘Touch My Name’ was written about those members of the United States Armed Forces that sacrificed their very lives in service of our nation, and also about those that returned from that service to carry on their memories. May the bells of Liberty ring free through our hearts today, and may we all enjoy a safe and happy 4th”.
Watch the official video for “Touch My Name” below.
This release offers a deeply satisfying and respectful tribute to those who sacrificed everything. The official lyric video serves as a visual monument, utilizing powerful war-time aesthetics and dynamic typography to amplify the track’s anti-war themes.
Eager fans won’t have to wait long for new music. The band has shared a highly anticipated update regarding their current studio progress and creative trajectory, much to the excitement of their fans.
Dale says: “Our next release(s) will be a multi-part sci-fi concept. All the songs have been written and demos have been recorded. We are roughly 70% through the recording phase and expecting to complete by early-mid August to start final mixing and then onto mastering. We will keep you all updated on our progress and plan to have a few teasers along the way. Stay tuned!”.
The band is currently working on the first part of their upcoming sci-fi concept album.
Current Band Line-up:
Drew Brown – Vocals
Dale Rasco – Guitars
Jeff Quiggle – Keyboards
Marc Petillon – Guitars
Brent Marches – Bass
Jon Barber – Drums
Original Recording Lineup (“When I See You Fall”):
Drew Brown – Vocals
Dale Rasco – Guitars
Jeff Quiggle – Keyboards
Marc Petillon – Guitars
Tony Taylor – Bass
Trenton Perry – Drums
Follow Distance of Thought and Astral Haven Records on social media for further updates on their upcoming concept album.
Web:
www.facebook.com/distanceofthought
www.instagram.com/distanceofthoughtofficial
