About this album
Where they were
Released on March 29, 2019, 'Empath' is Devin Townsend's first studio album since 'Transcendence' in 2016. At this point in his career, Townsend was exploring new creative territories after a brief hiatus from his solo work, embracing a more eclectic and expansive approach to songwriting and production. This album showcases his willingness to fuse various genres and concepts into a cohesive auditory experience.
Why it matters
'Empath' debuted at number 2 on the Billboard Top Hard Rock Albums chart, marking a significant commercial success for Townsend. The album received widespread acclaim from critics, being praised for its ambitious scope and sonic diversity, and it solidified Townsend's position as an innovative force in the heavy music landscape.
Essential tracks
- "Genesis" — This track encapsulates the album's thematic essence with its grand orchestration and dynamic shifts, illustrating Townsend's mastery over contrasting soundscapes.
- "Spirits Will Collide" — Combining heavy riffs with uplifting melodies, this song reflects the album's central theme of unity and connection amidst chaos.
- "Singularity: Here Comes the Sun" — This closing track serves as a poignant culmination of the album's journey, merging hopeful lyrics with ethereal instrumentation that leaves a lasting impact.
Release Date
March 29, 2019
Artist Origin
Canada
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Castaway 2:30
- 2 Genesis 6:05
- 3 Spirits Will Collide 4:39
- 4 Evermore 5:30
- 5 Sprite 6:37
- 6 Hear Me 6:30
- 7 Why? 4:59
- 8 Borderlands 11:02
- 9 Requiem 2:46
- 10 Singularity: Adrift 4:59
- 11 Singularity: I Am I 3:29
- 12 Singularity: There Be Monsters 4:37
- 13 Singularity: Curious Gods 3:08
- 14 Singularity: Silicon Scientists 2:55
- 15 Singularity: Here Comes the Sun 4:22
Disc 2
- 1 The Contrarian (demo) 5:43
- 2 King (demo) 5:29
- 3 The Waiting Kind (demo) 3:54
- 4 Empath (demo) 5:11
- 5 Methuselah (demo) 4:07
- 6 This Is Your Life (demo) 4:15
- 7 Gulag (demo) 5:38
- 8 Middle Aged Man (demo) 3:25
- 9 Total Collapse (demo) 5:41
- 10 Summer (demo) 6:15
