Alien Weaponry Releases "1000 Friends" As Second Single From Upcoming Album "Te Rā"
Alien Weaponry, the New Zealand-based thrash metal trio, has released their latest single "1000 Friends" on February 19, 2025, as the second offering from their upcoming third studio album "Te Rā". The song delves into the pervasive influence of social media on contemporary society, exploring its impact on human psychology and social interactions.
"1000 Friends" showcases Alien Weaponry's evolution, featuring technical riffs and mechanized thrash elements that underscore the song's dystopian theme. Frontman Lewis Raharuhi de Jong explains the song's concept: "'1000 Friends' encapsulates the shifting way we socialize today, and the impact it has on the human psyche. We can often feel disconnected from the outside world. The human mind wasn't built to comprehend the world we are currently living in".
Formed in 2010 by brothers Lewis and Henry de Jong, who were just 8 and 10 years old at the time, Alien Weaponry has garnered international attention for their unique blend of thrash metal with lyrics in te reo Māori, the indigenous language of New Zealand. The band's lineup consists of Lewis de Jong (guitar and vocals), Henry de Jong (drums), and Ethan Trembath (bass guitar).
The band's upcoming album "Te Rā" is set for release on March 28, 2025, via Napalm Records. Produced by Josh Wilbur, known for his work with Lamb of God, Gojira, and Megadeth, the album promises to be Alien Weaponry's most "massive-sounding" offering yet. It features a guest appearance from Randy Blythe of Lamb of God on the track "Taniwha".
Prior to "1000 Friends", Alien Weaponry released "Mau Moko" as the first single from "Te Rā". This track honors the traditional Māori practice of face tattooing while addressing the challenges of maintaining cultural customs in the face of dominant societal norms.
Alien Weaponry's musical style is deeply rooted in their Māori heritage and influenced by a diverse range of artists, including Metallica, Rage Against the Machine, Anthrax, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. This fusion of thrash metal with indigenous culture and socio-political commentary has become a hallmark of their sound.
As they prepare for the release of "Te Rā", Alien Weaponry continues to push boundaries both musically and lyrically. The album explores themes of existential dread and delves into difficult emotional territories, reflecting the band's growth and maturity since their debut. With "1000 Friends" and the forthcoming album, Alien Weaponry reaffirms their position as a powerful voice in modern metal, addressing contemporary issues while honoring their cultural roots.
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