Only Human’s first album “Planned Obsolescence” explores a future on the brink of collapse.
Danish progressive metal group Only Human recently inked a deal with Season of Mist in early 2026 just before their scheduled appearance at the Sweden Rock Festival. Their upcoming studio album, “Planned Obsolescence,” slated for release on March 26, 2026, serves as a cautionary tale about an impending dystopian future.
The band unveiled the track and music video for “Automata” as part of the album promotion. Vocalist Patrick Grønbæch Christensen sheds light on the album’s thematic focus, aiming to shed light on the encroachment of technocracy on society. He emphasizes how tech giants manipulate consumers by designing products with built-in obsolescence, perpetuating a culture where humans are treated as disposable commodities, a concept explored through social media and influencer culture.
Only Human draws inspiration for their band name from a seminal moment in the iconic film “The Matrix.” According to Christensen, the group’s foundation lies in a desire to convey something more significant than mere entertainment. They aim to craft a musical landscape that echoes a future teetering on the edge of collapse, mirroring the album’s core themes.
“Planned Obsolescence” confronts the growing dominance of technology in our lives. The debut album’s lead single, “Automata,” delves into the perils of technological addiction and the insidious nature of consumerism in contemporary society. It grapples with the idea that complacency may be the subtle yet potent threat of the digital era, highlighting the incessant battle between corporate greed and invasive technologies for control.
Christensen underlines the importance of realizing that the world’s current state is not irreversible. Despite the challenges we face, there is hope in resisting the dehumanizing effects of profit-driven motives. By prompting listeners to reevaluate their priorities and prioritize human values over financial gains, “Planned Obsolescence” aims to spark introspection and action among its audience.
In adopting a proactive stance against the encroachment of technocracy and consumerism, Only Human’s music serves as a rallying cry for reclaiming individual agency and valuing humanity’s intrinsic worth over material gains. “Planned Obsolescence” stands as a testament to the band’s commitment to artistic integrity and societal critique, offering a poignant soundtrack for navigating the complexities of our rapidly evolving digital landscape.