Bad Omens Release ‘Specter’ Music Video – First New Music in 2022

Richmond, Virginia’s Bad Omens has recently debuted “Specter,” their latest music release following their 2022 album, “The Death of Peace and Mind.” The band has been making waves in the music scene, with performances at various festivals like Summerfest, Welcome to Rockville, and Rock Fest, along with upcoming headlining gigs at Louder Than Life and Aftershock.

The music video for “Specter” was directed by Bad Omens frontman Noah Sebastian and Nico, featuring actor Ryan Hurst, known for his work in “Sons of Anarchy” and “Remember the Titans.” While fans eagerly await more music from Bad Omens, the band has not confirmed if “Specter” is the beginning of a new album.

When Bad Omens emerged from Richmond in 2015, they quickly garnered attention for their unique approach to modern metalcore. Lead vocalist, songwriter, and producer Noah Sebastian, along with guitarist Joakim “Jolly” Karlsson, bassist Nicholas Ruffilo, and drummer Nick Folio, set out to create music that was not only heavy but also emotionally charged and meticulously crafted. Their goal was to produce records that could stand alongside the best in the genre.

Richmond, Virginia may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of metalcore innovation, but the city has a rich history of underground music. Sebastian, having previously been involved in other music projects, felt creatively stifled. Bad Omens provided him with an artistic outlet, allowing him complete control over the band’s identity, especially in terms of songwriting and production. Their music was characterized by a cinematic quality, blending heavy breakdowns with ambient textures and lyrics exploring themes of loss, faith, and inner struggles.

Sumerian Records, known for nurturing genre-defying acts, such as Asking Alexandria and Periphery, took notice of Bad Omens’ demos and signed them in 2015. Working with producer Will Putney, the band released their debut album in 2016. Songs like “Glass Houses” and “The Worst in Me” showcased Sebastian’s vocal range, delivering brutal screams and soaring clean vocals. The album’s fusion of djent-inspired riffs, orchestral elements, and emotional depth set Bad Omens apart in the metalcore scene.

While drawing comparisons to bands like Bring Me The Horizon and Architects, Bad Omens’ precision and moodiness set them apart. Their debut album’s success led to tours with prominent acts, solidifying their position in the heavy music community. The release of their second album, “Finding God Before God Finds Me,” in 2019 marked a progression in their sound. While maintaining their heavy roots, the album embraced more accessible melodies and structures, broadening their appeal to a wider audience.

The band’s third album, “The Death of Peace of Mind,” released in 2022, marked a creative leap forward. Darker and more atmospheric, the album blurred genre boundaries by incorporating elements of synthwave, R&B-inspired vocals, and cinematic production. Tracks like “Just Pretend” garnered significant attention, with millions of streams and critical acclaim.

Throughout their career, Bad Omens has been known for their engaging live performances, balancing energy and emotion in their shows. Their commitment to engaging with fans online and bringing a cinematic experience to their stage productions has further solidified their reputation in the music industry. With a growing global audience and a willingness to experiment with their sound, Bad Omens continues to push boundaries and defy expectations within the metalcore genre.