German band MAVIS, featuring vocalist Phil Donay, guitarist Manu Weller, bass player Mo Amrein, and drummer Jakob Schulz-Klein, are proud to announce their debut full-length record Grief Is No Ally, due for release on December 15, via Arising Empire!
The newest track "Calypso" heralds the official pre-orders and showcases their exceptional talent in composing and narrative lyricism. The audience finds itself entranced by the fusion of intense energy and hypnotic tunes, culminating in an irresistible hook. "Calypso" marks the band's first creative endeavor since the exit of founding member and chief songwriter Robin Dachtler, offering a surreal odyssey that navigates the often essential transformations life imposes. As the piece evolved, it increasingly symbolized the band's own brush with disbandment.
Watch the video below.
"It felt as though MAVIS was doomed just as it began to flourish. Yet, we endured those challenging times, and akin to the song, we were drawn to a faint yet alluring glimmer of hope that pierced through the gloom. Clinging to that light, we now find ourselves more united and resilient than before," reflects vocalist Phil Donay.
With its compelling narrative and emotive depth, "Calypso" emerges as a powerful anthem sure to make an enduring impact.
Grief Is No Ally is available as CD, limited colored vinyl, together with unique merch options at the Arising Empire online shop. Pre-order here!
PHOTO CREDIT: Venera Red
The title of the record stands for 11 stories of different forms of grieving, ranging from it’s dark and negative sides to very positives and healthy aspects of embracing grief to let go. MAVIS planned the release of a full length in 2020 but were already struck with multiple setbacks in their young history. Not only the beginning of the pandemic hit them right at the start but lineup changes because of illness, mental issues or members growing apart from making music entirely. Just as they booked live shows again roughly 1.5 years ago, their bad luck peaked in a studio fire in which they lost instruments, equipment, and all merchandise. Right around that time, the two remaining members of MAVIS found new drive as they could complete the line up once again. Since then, the musicians worked tirelessly on putting all their experiences into the songs that now make this jewel of a debut record. They went into the studio with a "nothing is holy" attitude to produce the best music they can and their efforts paid off as finally everyone can hear.
MAVIS ARE:
Phil Donay — Vocals
Manu Weller — Guitar
Mo Amrein — Guitar
Jakob Schulz-Klein — Drums