Swedish gothic doom metal entity DRACONIAN reveal their new single, "Misantrophe River," the second offering cut from their upcoming full-length, In Somnolent Ruin, to be released on May 8 via Napalm Records. "Misantrophe River" confronts listeners in true DRACONIAN fashion with life's hardest questions, exploring feelings of alienation when swimming against the stream, and the search for direction in unfamiliar territory.

The undisputed leaders of the second wave of gothic doom metal are finally back — and they return in better shape than ever! In Somnolent Ruin promises to be one of the most personal records in DRACONIAN's discography, revealed through a dream-like journey across 9 tracks and the poetic lyricism of vocalist Anders Jacobsson. The new album also marks the return of long-time vocalist Lisa Johansson — the band's vocalist for their first five records.

Ander Jacobsson about the new single:
"'Misanthrope River' was the first song written for this album. The initial idea goes back to the early days of Under a Godless Veil, but it remained dormant until work on this record began. It's an emotional gothic doom track- fairly minimalist, yet expansive in feel, with subtle touches that hint at post-metal and give the atmosphere a broader sense of depth. There's a suggestion of something ancient and mysterious running through it. Although interactive, at its core, the song deals with separation and isolation in a world where the larger truth has been kept from you and how those feelings slowly turn into resentment. You're pushing against the current wading upstream while doubting the way forward. In that struggle you'll be grasping at straws for any sense of peace while unintentionally shutting out the one closest to you. Shot in the Faroe Islands, the video places its actors within vast, striking landscapes. It was directed by Gaui H., the same director behind 'Cold Heavens.'"

Watch the official music video for "Misantrophe River" Below:

Pre-Order Your Copy of In Somnolent Ruin — NOW!

In Somnolent Ruin captures the essence of a band that no longer needs to prove anything — and yet still does. Active since the mid-1990s and having released their debut album, Where Lovers Mourn, in 2003, DRACONIAN have continuously demonstrated their unmatched ability to craft otherworldly doom melodies and searing heavy instrumentation, complemented by lyrics that read like poetry. Their art cuts deep, compelling listeners to confront their inner demons, wander through the darkest shadows, and even embrace emotional numbness, only to emerge with a sense of inner peace. This album confronts listeners with life's hardest questions, exploring feelings of alienation and the search for direction in unfamiliar territory.

In Somnolent Ruin’s journey begins with "I Welcome Thy Arrow," which captivates from the very first seconds through haunting melodies and a vocal interplay that embodies fragility and strength alike. Tracks such as "The Monochrome Blade" and "The Face of God" introduce increased tempo and eruptive vocal dynamics. "Anima" features Swedish artist Daniel Änghede, adding layers of emotional depth and confronting listeners with their darker impulses, capturing the sense of being lost and questioning one's place in the world. "Asteria Beneath the Tranquil Sea" serves as a transitional interlude between "I Gave You Wings" and "Cold Heavens", the latter exploring the delicate balance between life and death and not finding relief in any of both, while delivering the album's most intense vocal performance. "Misanthrope River" opens with an extended instrumental passage and narration by Simon Bibby, slowing the tempo but by no means reducing the emotional weight, reflecting life’s daily struggles and obstacles. The closing track, "Lethe," references the river of forgetfulness in Greek mythology. Those who drank from it would lose all memory. "Oh, shooting star… Drown in me! Drink. Forget. Repeat," mourns Jacobsson through devilish growls. And yet, In Somnolent Ruinremains a work of art one wishes not to forget — not a single blink of an eye.

DRACONIAN ARE:
Johan Ericson – Guitar, Vocals + Keys
Anders Jacobsson – Vocals
Lisa Johansson – Vocals
Daniel Arvidsson – Bass
Niklas Nord – Guitar
Daniel Johansson – Drums