Progressive metal band Take & Take's debut album Disillusion released today, March 22, 2024. Crafting every element from concept to concrete, the musical visionary Eddie Trager helmed the entire process—ideas, composition, instrumental and vocal performances, and even the captivating hand-drawn cover art.
In collaboration of the album release, the band also dropped their new music video for "Digging"! WATCH it Below.
In this artistic endeavor, Trager found collaboration in the form of the legendary Matt Bayles. Known for his contributions to some of Eddie's all-time favorite albums, Bayles lent his expertise to the mixing duties at the prestigious Red Room in Seattle. Meanwhile, metal production titan Jens Bogren took the reins for mastering at his renowned Fascination Street Studios in Malmo, Sweden, ensuring the album's sound reaches new heights.
Disillusion draws inspiration from a diverse array of progressive musical influences, weaving a tapestry that spans from the avant-garde sounds of Ihsahn, Sleepytime Gorilla Museum, Opeth, Mastodon, Wilderun, and The Mars Volta to the vibrancy of Jacob Collier, The Beatles, Queen, and Yes. The album masterfully navigates through a spectrum of musical genres, seamlessly blending pop sensibilities with experimental twists that defy traditional forms.
Prepare to embark on a musical odyssey that transcends boundaries, as Take & Take introduces Disillusion to the world —a testament to innovation, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of artistic excellence.
"Sticky" - the first single from the upcoming Disillusion album - dropped January 12th with a simultaneous video premiere at Metal Injection.
Check it out HERE
"That Won’t Last", the second single, came out February 16 with a lyric visualizer by Drain Hope.
Meet Eddie Trager, a versatile artist whose musical journey spans a spectrum of roles and genres:
Formerly a rhythmic force as the drummer and percussionist for Nekrogoblikonfrom 2007 to 2016, Eddie contributed not only his drumming skills but also his talents on xylophone, glockenspiel, marimba, and earned credits as a songwriter.
Currently, he is making waves as the drummer for the new punk/hardcore band, Last Leg, as well as handling production and mixing duties for their debut EP. Additionally, Eddie showcases his guitar prowess with The Wailing Coast, a rock band based in China, where he intricately weaves melodies into their sonic landscape.
As the leader of Eddie Spaghetti and the Selfish Bitches, Eddie brings an absurd sensibility to modern music. Moreover, his collaborative efforts with Emo/Shoegaze/chamber music artist A Lady Named Isaac add another layer to his diverse musical portfolio.
Eddie Trager's journey with Take & Take began in 2016, during his travels through Colombia. The song forms coalesced during live demo sessions in the midst of the 2020 lockdown in Xiamen, China. Take & Take is the sound of personal struggle and awakening, of greed and gain, of telling lies and being lied to, of deep disappointment and personal loss, the rise of ego and the inevitable fall. It's a poetic testament to the transformative power of heavy music, inviting those who truly listen to join the experience. Take & Take isn't just music; it's an immersive journey through the complexities of the human experience—raw, unapologetic, and undeniably powerful.
