Today, multi-genre rockers BLACK MAP share a new single, "Badlands," from their forthcoming album 'Hex,' out May 9th. The album marks their debut for Spinefarm. "Badlands" is accompanied by a new visualizer.
About the single, Ben Flanagan (vocals/bass) comments:
"'Badlands' is a song about ultimately exploring new heights. Moving forward and up. It’s immediate and direct. The spirit of the song reminds me of the music I was listening to when I first picked up a guitar. For me, there is something super cathartic about playing it."
Watch the Video for "Badlands" Below:
At the start of 2024, BLACK MAP retreated to Southern California to record 'Hex' with Saosinguitarist Beau Burchell behind the board as producer. The band embraced a clear, collective vision, shifting from the expansive, ethereal nature of 'Melodoria' to a more urgent and immediate sound.
Vocalist/Bassist Ben Flanagan describes 'Hex' as a body of work with a strong “let’s f*cking go” spirit, while guitarist Mark Engles emphasizes its balance between atmospheric elements and a driving intensity. The album captures the band’s signature style, with Mark’s distinct guitar work ever-present and a renewed focus on immediacy and raw energy.
For Ben, 'Hex' represents the profound impact of music, offering solace and connection. Drummer Chris Robyn adds that the album carries an unstoppable momentum, charging forward with force and intention. Rooted in themes of personal struggle, authenticity, and resilience, 'Hex' stands as BLACK MAP’s most powerful and urgent release yet.
Having formed in 2014 from the bands Dredg, Far, and The Trophy Fire, BLACK MAP has generated critical acclaim from the press as well as their musician peers.
Pivoting around a nimble balance of post-hardcore, alternative, and hard rock, the trio of vocalist and bassist Ben Flanagan, guitarist Mark Engles, and drummer Chris Robyn convene, congregate, and commune to power up BLACK MAP. Their union teems with emotion and electricity—which the musicians harness to craft immediate and raucous anthems underscored by unpredictable musicality and undeniable hooks.
BLACK MAP are:
Ben Flanagan - vocals, bass
Mark Engles - guitar
Chris Robyn - drums