Markneukirchen, Germany-based Experimental/Electronic Progressive Rock solo project Avant Orchid Zone has unveiled the official full-stream for his new EP “Sanctuary Hearts,” released on December 21, 2025.
Stream “Sanctuary Hearts” EP via the YouTube player below:
Excerpt from Shuude‘s chronicle (an unknown protagonist):
“…It is simply incredible, how many ships my friends have managed to amass here today – at the limit of the Taurus cloud nebula. The people of these Hazes have had it with these corrupting invaders, and they’re prepared to leave their lives for it. But now is not the time to ponder the worthiness of our cause, as my friends are buying valuable time, so that I may slip past the enemy’s lines and enter their territory – and hopefully deal a most devastating blow to this cryptic, ancient foe.
The battle is raging, haze ships of both sides crashing and burning, while projectiles of all types soar. And as I still take part in this spectacle, I’m feeling as though my mind is starting to leave my body. The elements of my own ship are starting to elude me, and just as this fact has me doubting my abilities, I realize that I no longer need these metallic wings to fly.
With a newfound clarity of my being in spirit, I am soaring above and beyond this vast realm, leaving the battle behind, towards the heart of the infestation. If Ticha’s words held any water, then she is waiting for me there. I hope so, because if not, I might just die today.”
Many things have happened this year, unforeseen, unwanted.
We do what we can, in the time we have, and it often feels like it’s never enough.
But never let your doubts, and words of doubters wear you down, and stop you from believing in your doing.
And so, this story will continue. Today, and then, someday again. Piece by piece.
Sanctuary Hearts is an EP about lunacy and love. A rediscovery of passion amidst utter chaos. A musical salad of medium serving size.
Thank you to everyone who supported me and my project. – Avant Orchid Zone
No AI technology was used in the making of this music.
You are hereby discouraged from using any part of this music for any kind of use with / through AI.”
Purchase “Sanctuary Hearts” EP on Bandcamp: https://avantorchidzone.bandcamp.com/album/sanctuary-hearts-ep
Tracklist:
01. Heavy Losses (Sanctuary Ground) 03:52
02. Combat Zone: Taurus Cloud 02:30
03. Vapour Area / Goner 05:18
04. Anyway 06:15
05. Anyway (live coda from Tellerhäuser 2025) 00:28
All original works composed and performed by Johann Hackl.