North Sea Echoes announces new album ‘How To’ with Ray Alder & Jim Matheos

e metal veterans vocalist Ray Alder and guitarist Jim Matheos from Fates Warning – have announced the upcoming release of their second studio album, How To Cast A Shadow, scheduled to drop on July 24th via Metal Blade Records.

The band has released the lead single, “Enjoy the View,” which showcases a dynamic blend of guitar and drum-driven sound. Alder describes the song as having a juxtaposition of quiet verses and heavy choruses, drawing inspiration from the darker aspects of human nature.

Following the success of their debut album Really Good Terrible Things in 2024, which received acclaim for its expansive sonic landscape and emotional depth, North Sea Echoes aims to push their musical boundaries further with How To Cast A Shadow. Matheos mentions that this record explores heavier tones, with a greater emphasis on real drums played by Dennis Leeflang, creating a natural evolution in their sound.

Alder agrees, citing a track like “I’ll Leave A Light On” as an example of the album’s darker, melancholic themes. Drawing inspiration from a character in a sci-fi series, the lyrics hint at a somber reflection on humanity. The album as a whole, from the radio-friendly “All That Comes After” to the poignant ballad “Villains Or Saints,” traverses various genres while challenging conventional listening expectations.

The collaborative history of Alder and Matheos, both stalwarts of the progressive metal scene, adds depth to the creative process. With Alder’s extensive tenure as the vocalist and songwriter for Fates Warning and Redemption, combined with Matheos’ prolific discography as a guitarist and producer, the duo brings a wealth of experience to their collaboration.

The band describes How To Cast A Shadow as a culmination of their diverse musical backgrounds, incorporating elements from their respective projects while maintaining a distinct sound. The album promises a thought-provoking exploration of themes like hope, sorrow, and self-awareness, complemented by Matheos’ expressive guitar work.

Fans can pre-order How To Cast A Shadow through Metal Blade Records and experience a full track listing that includes songs like “A Time of Innocence and Purpose,” “Revenge,” and the title track “How to Cast a Shadow.” Stay tuned for the album release on July 24th for a journey through the intricate world of North Sea Echoes.