THE EMPIRE SHALL FALL’s “Awaken” To See Long-Awaited Retail Release
Restricted Release, in cooperation with Angle Side Side, today confirms October 12 as the North American release date for Awaken, the full-length debut from Rhode Island-based THE EMPIRE SHALL FALL. Awaken is the first metal album from vocalist Jesse David Leach since his departure from KILLSWITCH ENGAGE.
Recorded in 2009, Awaken was originally available for physical purchase via direct band merchandise outlets. Through the new cooperation, the album will now be accessible via proper retail outlets throughout North America. “We all couldn’t be more than happy that this record has gained enough attention to make it to this level of exposure,” comments Leach. “We are proud that our DIY band and our self produced/released record has the potential to reach so many more listeners. Our hope is that a great deal of people will be able to see the passion and message we carry with our music. Fight the good fight!”
Produced by guitarist Marcus De Lisle and mixed by Sean Small, Awaken has already received significant media attention. Hails & Horns Magazine calls it “a powerhouse of a record, crackling with intensity.” Popular online site The PRP gave the record a 4 out of 5 rating, noting it as “a vast arsenal of aural weaponry.” Terrorizer Magazine applauded the album, embracing Leach’s “jagged, broken-glass shrieks” and called it “more than a welcomed return.” The album has also generated substantial support from college and commercial specialty radio programs across the country. As part of an early radio campaign, Awaken peaked on FMQB/Friday Morning Quarterback’s metal chart at position 7 and impressed CMJ/College Music Journal stations peaking at position 20 on the tip magazine’s weekly metal chart.
