Following the fierce comeback statement "Black Matter Manifesto," SAMAEL unveil "Hidden Empire," the second track featured on their upcoming limited 12" maxi single vinyl, arriving April 24 via Napalm Records mail-order and the band's official shop.
The new song explores the unseen structures shaping modern existence, translating its dark themes into a tense and weighty sonic landscape. Beginning with echoes of SAMAEL's classic era before evolving into a crushing blend of heavy riffs and mechanical intensity, "Hidden Empire" showcases the band's ability to balance oppressive atmosphere and hypnotic melody. Together with "Black Matter Manifesto," the track forms a powerful two-song statement that proves the Swiss pioneers remain as uncompromising and forward-thinking as ever.
SAMAEL on "Hidden Empire":
"Hidden in plain sight, right in front of us, everywhere and at all times. We no longer see what we are used to seeing, it is our reality, a reality to which we willingly submit in order to lead a painless but meaningless existence.
"Musically, the beginning of the song is somewhat reminiscent of SAMAEL's classic track 'My Saviour,' but it quickly evolves into something more unusual for the band. It is a heavy song with an industrial touch that maintains high tension from start to finish."
Watch the Official Music Video for "Hidden Empire" Below:
Eight years after Hegemony (2017), Swiss metal titans SAMAEL return with the powerful limited 12" maxi single vinyl Hidden Empire featuring their first new material in nearly a decade. The vinyl will be released on April 24 and will be exclusively available via Napalm Records mail-order and SAMAEL's official band shop. The vinyl will include the commanding tracks "Black Matter Manifesto" and "Hidden Empire."
Formed in 1987, SAMAEL are among the most influential forces in extreme metal, reshaping the genre with timeless classics such as Worship Him and Passage. Blending black, industrial, and symphonic metal into their own unmistakable signature sound, the band continues to push boundaries with dark precision and apocalyptic grandeur.
"Black Matter Manifesto" marks SAMAEL's long-awaited return — raw, forceful, and unmistakably theirs. With "Hidden Empire," the legendary Swiss pioneers reaffirm their enduring presence, delivering a track that commands through its rawness while showcasing the band's trademark melodies and haunting riffs. Together, these songs underline SAMAEL's relentless drive to expand a genre they helped shape — as vital, uncompromising, and imposing as ever.
Pre-Order the limited 12 Inch Vinyl NOW.
SAMAEL ARE:
Vorph – Guitars, Vocals
Xy – Drum programming, Keyboards, Samples and Percussion
Drop – Guitars
Ales – Bass