Chinese Progressive Metal band OU have released their sophomore album “蘇醒 II: Frailty” released on April 26, 2024 via InsideOut Music, which was co-produced and mixed Devin Townsend who also appears on the track “Purge.”
Their newest and vulnerable visual offering “輪迴 Reborn” can be streamed through the Youtube player below:
OU comments on the new single: “輪迴 Reborn” is probably the most vulnerable song of OU to date. It’s also one of Lynn’s favorite songs off our second album. The music of OU goes where it wants to go, and this song happened to go in a direction with some pop sensibilities, which in context with the rest of the album sounds really fresh to our ears.”
Anthony Vanacore also adds to the album release: “From writing and arranging, recording and editing, to mixing, producing and mastering, OU’s second album encompassed probably somewhere around the 1500-2000 hour mark to make a reality. As with the first album, it goes into a lot of uncharted territory where many times you just have to take that leap of faith during the process of creation. Working with Devin Townsend was one of the great honors of my life, I learned a lot from him, gained a lot of inspiration from his brilliance, and will always be grateful for the time and care he put into this. Thank you, Devin. I would also like to thank InsideOutMusic for supporting such an album that breaks almost all conventions and thank all the people that support the music of OU. We hope the music finds those who will resonate with it!”
Tracklist:
1. 蘇醒 Frailty
2. 淨化 Purge
3. 海 Ocean
4. 血液 Redemption
5. 衍生 Capture and Elongate (Serenity)
6. 破魂 Spirit Broken
7. 歪歪地愛 yyds
8. 輪迴 Reborn
9. 念 Recall
Order the album and stream here: https://ou.lnk.to/II-Frailty
The album is available in the following versions:
•Ltd. CD Jewelcase
•Ltd. White-Black Marbled 1LP 180g Vinyl – Strictly limited to only 1000 copies worldwide
•Digital Album
Hailing from the vibrant musical scene of Beijing, China, OU emerged onto the global stage with their debut album one in 2022, leaving listeners awestruck and craving more. With an unparalleled fusion of Metal, Electronica, Ambient textures, and captivating melodies, OU defies convention, offering a sonic journey unlike any other, that invites listeners into their world.
Fast forward to 2023, and OU found themselves in esteemed company, collaborating with none other than the visionary Devin Townsend to craft their highly anticipated sophomore effort, “蘇醒II: Frailty,” slated for release on April 26th, 2024. This upcoming album promises to push boundaries even further, introducing prog fans to a realm of sound that challenges the very definition of genre itself. OU invites you to join them on this exhilarating sound odyssey, where familiarity meets innovation, and every note resonates with unprecedented intensity.
Lineup:
Lynn Wu / Vocals
Anthony Vanacore / Drums, Prod
Zhang Jing / Guitars
Chris Cui / Bass
Special Guest:
Devin Townsend on Track “Purge“