Raphael Weinroth-Browne announces release date for new album “Empyrean” on September 11, 2026
Canadian cellist and composer Raphael Weinroth-Browne is gearing up to release his third solo album, titled “Empyrean”, on September 11th, 2026. This highly anticipated album promises to be expansive, cinematic, and packed with moments of intense emotional depth. Weinroth-Browne’s unique blend of Baroque grandeur, post-rock ambiance, experimental noise, and progressive metal creates an unparalleled musical experience that seeks to transcend the ordinary and reach for the divine.
The album’s first single, “Reflection”, sets the tone for what listeners can expect from “Empyrean”. This monolithic and hypnotic track features ritualistic repetition woven into a fabric of distorted cello melodies, Middle Eastern-inspired tunes, and syncopated grooves that draw comparisons to the powerful sounds of bands like Tool and Meshuggah. Weinroth-Browne describes this track as a reflection of his progressive metal influences, showcasing a heavier side of his musical repertoire.
“Reflection” was originally composed for the contemporary dance production Bach Reimagined by James Wilton Dance, highlighting the central theme that runs through “Empyrean” – the convergence of classical tradition with modern extremity. By infusing Bach-inspired motifs with elements of noise and metal, Weinroth-Browne creates a sound that blurs the lines between chamber music and post-metal catharsis.
The genesis of “Empyrean” dates back to 2024 when Weinroth-Browne was commissioned to compose an 80-minute score for Bach Reimagined. This project led him to a profound dialogue with Johann Sebastian Bach across centuries, resulting in compositions that marry Baroque elegance with contemporary textures and rhythms. Each track on the album showcases this fusion of classical purity with modern complexity, offering listeners a glimpse into Weinroth-Browne’s artistic exploration of transcendence and beauty.
Recorded at Union Sound Company in Toronto and mixed and mastered by industry veterans, “Empyrean” captures the essence of Weinroth-Browne’s musical vision with unparalleled clarity. The album’s artwork, crafted by London-based artist Cally Conway, adds a visual dimension to the auditory experience, reflecting the album’s themes of immensity and intimacy.
Weinroth-Browne’s reputation as a boundary-pushing interpreter and composer is well-earned, with his cello work featured on numerous studio albums and film soundtracks. His collaborations with artists like Leprous and performances at prestigious festivals have solidified his position as a trailblazer in the world of progressive music.
With an extensive tour schedule planned for 2026, including solo performances and collaborations with Earthside and Einar Solberg, Raphael Weinroth-Browne continues to redefine the boundaries of what the cello can achieve in the 21st century. “Empyrean” is set to be a defining moment in his career, showcasing his relentless pursuit of musical excellence and otherworldly beauty.