Musician AUTHOR & PUNISHER Draws Inspiration from Birdsong and Border Politics on Latest Album, Nocturnal Birding
Author & Punisher, the industrial metal project led by mechanical engineer and musical visionary Tristan Shone, is embarking on a new musical journey after commemorating 20 years of machine-driven chaos in 2024. Scheduled for release on October 3, 2025, via Relapse Records, the upcoming album titled Nocturnal Birding is a profound and emotionally charged masterpiece that seamlessly fuses Shone’s doom-laden machinery with sounds inspired by the natural world, particularly birds.
Through field recordings and melodies derived from authentic birdsong, Nocturnal Birding stands as a testament to technical brilliance and personal expression. The album’s introductory riff, for instance, is crafted based on the call of a meadowlark, while the track “Rook” mirrors the distinct song of its avian namesake. Shone skillfully integrates these organic elements into thunderous guitar tones, melancholic synths, and mechanical rhythms, creating a sonic landscape that bridges the gap between nature and industry in a groundbreaking manner.
However, beneath the organic and mechanical fusion lies a weighty human narrative. Nocturnal Birding is a dedication to the lives lost while attempting to cross the treacherous U.S./Mexico border. Moved by his volunteer experiences with the humanitarian group Border Angels, Shone recounts how birdsong served as the backdrop to these poignant journeys, underscoring the album’s dual purpose as both a homage to nature and a contemplation on themes of hardship, displacement, and resilience.
The album’s lead single, “Titanis,” featuring Indonesian artist Kuntari, exemplifies this thematic depth. “Titanis” seamlessly combines Author & Punisher’s signature dense mechanical sounds with elements of unrestrained experimentation, reflecting the deep bond between Shone and his global collaborators. The accompanying video for “Titanis,” shot live in Bali and directed by Manda Selena and Ican Harem, captures the raw intensity of the performance, underscoring the intimate connection between the artists.
Marking a significant shift, Nocturnal Birding embraces collaboration in a newfound capacity. Guitarist Doug Sabolick (A Life Once Lost, Ecstatic Vision) formally joins Author & Punisher, lending his talents to the songwriting and guitar work throughout the album. Additionally, the record boasts guest appearances from Fange, Megan Oztrosits of Couch Slut, and Kuntari, with production credits attributed to Will Putney (Knocked Loose, Machine Head) and mesmerizing artwork by Lucile Lejoly.
Far from the detached nature of previous works, Nocturnal Birding represents a more humane side to Author & Punisher, showcasing Shone’s evolution as an artist unafraid to explore new horizons. Reflecting on the creative process, Shone remarks, “Removing myself from an artistic comfort zone proved fruitful inspiration. There is literal birdsong all over this record.”
With pre-orders available, Nocturnal Birding promises to be a groundbreaking addition to Author & Punisher’s discography, serving as a testament to the transformative power of music in capturing the essence of both nature and human experience.