BLACK ROYAL - Finnish Death-Sludge Quartet Return with New Single and Album on M-THEORY AUDIO

Following the release of their critically acclaimed 2022 album Earthbound, Finnish death-sludge powerhouse Black Royal return with their crushing new single, 'Drown the Seaweed', the first taste of their forthcoming album Abyssian, due this October via M-Theory Audio.

Continuing to refine their devastating blend of sludge metal and the icy ferocity of Scandinavian death metal, Black Royal have forged a sound that is both punishing and immersive. Often described as a collision between Crowbar and Entombed, with Behemoth and Mastodon waiting in the wings, the band deliver a sonic assault that balances crushing heaviness with cinematic atmosphere.

Formed in Tampere, Finland in 2013, Black Royal have established themselves as one of Finland's most formidable heavy acts. Following two acclaimed EPs, their 2018 debut Lightbringer earned widespread praise and appeared on numerous year-end lists thanks to its giant riffs and primal groove. Their sophomore album, Firebride (2020), further sharpened the band's identity, combining suffocating heaviness with memorable hooks and dynamic songwriting. With Earthbound (2022), their first release through M-Theory Audio, the band reached new creative heights, delivering a confident record that balanced aggression with melody while showcasing their continued evolution.

Speaking about the new single, the band explain: "‘Drown the Seaweed’ was born from the idea of crafting something ethereal and weightless – a sonic landscape that drifts like morning mist across a quiet summer lake. As the track unfolds, it dives deeper, with the C section and guitar solos pulling the listener beneath the surface into darker, more immersive waters. The result is a beautifully melancholic piece, balancing atmosphere with a memorable, hook-driven chorus that lingers long after the song fades."

Drawing inspiration from the ancient mystery and power of water, the song explores the world beneath the surface. A realm long associated with fear, reverence and unseen forces. Calm seas and violent storms can prove fatal, serving as a reminder that nature demands respect and that those who underestimate its power may face a cruel fate.

Atmospheric, cinematic and steeped in myth, 'Drown the Seaweed' is accompanied by a striking video created by Markus Vähäaho of RAW•ART Creations, featuring actress Julia Koskimies. The track was recorded with producer Arttu Sarvanne at Studio Watercastle, mixed by Jussi Kulomaa at Metal Mixing and mastered by Jaakko Viitalähde at Virtalähde Mastering. Written by Black Royal, the single encapsulates the band's vision, embracing crushing heaviness, evocative melody and immersive atmosphere in equal measure.

With Abyssian set for release this October, Black Royal continues to push deeper into darker, more atmospheric territory while expanding an already formidable sonic palette. 'Drown the Seaweed' offers a powerful first glimpse of the album's scope and ambition, reaffirming the band's position as one of Finland's most compelling and uncompromising heavy acts.

New album Abyssian is out 30th October 2026 on M-Theory​ Audio | Pre-Order

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Thanks to Sheltered Life PR for the details.