The acclaimed Japanese post-rock, hardcore, and shoegaze band Envy is set to release their eighth studio album, Eunoia, in October. This upcoming album marks a significant follow-up to their 2022 release, Seimei. Known for their emotive and atmospheric soundscapes, Envy continues to push the boundaries of genre fusion, blending the intensity of hardcore with the ethereal qualities of shoegaze and the expansive nature of post-rock.
The creation of Eunoia is deeply rooted in introspection and emotional honesty. In a statement, founding member Nobukata Kawai revealed that the album’s concept revolves around confronting the band’s own feelings of powerlessness. He elaborated, “The concept of creating the album was to honestly face our own powerlessness.” This theme is captured through a diary-like approach, recording the emotions and experiences of daily life. The result is a collection of songs that not only express a search for hope but also convey the nuanced emotions of the band members.
Kawai emphasized the importance of Tetsu’s lyrics in enhancing the album’s depth. Even without extensive explanations, Tetsu’s lyrical contributions add a significant layer of meaning to the music, enriching the listening experience. This lyrical depth, combined with the band’s signature sound, promises to make Eunoia a profound exploration of personal and collective emotions.
Envy has already given fans a taste of what to expect with the release of the lead single “Beyond The Raindrops.” Available on Bandcamp, the track embodies the band’s dynamic range and emotive power. The song is a thunderous blend of post-rock expansiveness and hardcore intensity, characterized by its soaring melodies and powerful instrumentation. The layers of sound create a rich, immersive atmosphere that is both haunting and uplifting.
“Beyond The Raindrops” showcases Envy’s ability to convey deep emotion through music. The track’s atmospheric qualities, combined with the raw energy of hardcore, make it a standout piece that encapsulates the essence of Eunoia. The single’s release has already garnered attention and set high expectations for the rest of the album.
It has been six years since Envy underwent a significant lineup change, a period that has seen the band re-establish a strong internal dynamic. According to Kawai, the good relationship of trust among the members is strongly reflected in the new work. This renewed sense of collaboration and mutual respect has evidently played a crucial role in the creation of Eunoia, allowing the band to explore new musical territories and emotional depths with confidence.
As Envy prepares to release Eunoia, the anticipation among fans and the broader music community continues to build. The album is expected to be a powerful addition to the band’s already impressive discography, offering a deep, introspective journey through sound and emotion. With “Beyond The Raindrops” setting the tone, listeners can look forward to an album that not only showcases Envy’s technical and artistic prowess but also resonates on a deeply personal level.
The combination of post-rock, hardcore, and shoegaze elements ensures that Eunoia will be a multifaceted album, appealing to a wide range of listeners. Envy’s willingness to confront their own vulnerabilities and transform them into art underscores the authenticity and emotional resonance of their music. As the release date approaches, Eunoia promises to be a significant milestone in Envy’s career, a testament to their evolution and enduring impact on the music scene.