Swedish masters of melancholic metal, Katatonia, have announced the release of their highly anticipated new album “Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State”, set to drop on June 6th via Napalm Records. The album marks a new chapter in the band’s storied career, following their 2023 release “Sky Void of Stars”, and introduces two fresh faces to the lineup: guitarists Nico Elgstrand and Sebastian Svalland. Despite these changes, Katatonia’s signature sound remains intact, continuing to explore the delicate balance between dark, introspective heaviness and the faint glimmer of hope.
The announcement comes with the release of the album’s lead single “Lilac”, which offers a haunting first taste of the forthcoming record. The track blends Jonas Renkse’s unmistakable vocals with hypnotic rhythms, heavy riffs, and progressive textures. Accompanied by a captivating music video, “Lilac” exemplifies Katatonia’s ability to weave an intricate web of emotional depth, pulling listeners into a swirling vortex of longing and despair.
Renkse says:
“We are proud and excited to announce our new album. These songs live in the shadowed corners of our perception, hidden away by daylight but waiting to rise in the darkness. Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State is a journey into that space, and we’re excited for you to hear the first scent of it with ‘Lilac.'”
The official music video for “Lilac” is available to watch below.
On the new album, Katatonia’s crystal-clear production allows the music to shine in its raw, emotional complexity. From the fragile, yet intense “Thrice” to the atmospheric “Wind of No Change”, which blends electronic elements with the band’s signature sound, the album’s tracks cover a broad emotional range. “Temporal” stands out with its powerful verses leading into a soaring, emotionally-charged chorus, while “Efter Solen” (After the Sun), sung in Swedish, is a minimalist piece evoking a sense of quiet beauty and introspection.
As Katatonia enters its fourth decade as a band, “Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State” proves their ability to continue evolving while remaining true to their roots. The album delves into themes of inner turmoil, beauty, and dystopian landscapes, encapsulating the band’s unique emotional spectrum. It’s a stunning addition to their ever-expanding discography, showcasing a seamless blend of heaviness, vulnerability, and haunting artistry.
The album was produced by Jonas Renkse, recorded by Lawrence Mackrory at NBS Audio and The City of Glass, mixed by Adam Noble, and mastered by Robin Schmidt at 24-96 Mastering. The stunning visuals and sonic landscapes were crafted with precision to bring the album’s dark yet hopeful themes to life.
“Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State” will be available in a variety of formats, including limited edition vinyl, a wooden box set with exclusive bonus content, and a CD Mediabook with bonus tracks and remixes. Fans can also purchase digital versions of the album. Your copy of the album can be ordered here.
Katatonia – Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State
1. Thrice
2. The Liquid Eye
3. Wind of No Change
4. Lilac
5. Temporal
6. Departure Trails
7. Warden
8. The Light Which I Bleed
9. Efter Solen
10. In the Event of
Fans can look forward to a truly immersive experience when “Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State” drops in June 2025, continuing Katatonia’s legacy as one of metal’s most emotionally resonant and sonically adventurous bands.
