THE BEAST

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CRUCIAL VELOCITY Premieres "Hollow" via Metal Insider; New Album Controller Set for Release on January 10, 2025

Crucial Velocity, the all-star project featuring members of King Diamond, Shaolin Death Squad, and Chastain Harris, has unveiled their latest single, "Hollow", exclusively at Metal Insider. The track, which critiques humanity's repeated failure to learn from history, begins with the poignant words of philosopher Georg Hegel: “The only thing that we learn from history is that we learn nothing from history.”

The accompanying music video, created by Wayne Joyner—renowned for his work with Dream Theater, Tremonti, and Devin Townsend—brings the song’s haunting themes to life. Experience it here: https://metalinsider.net/premieres/video-premiere-crucial-velocity-hollow

A Message Behind the Music

Songwriter Nate Bauer explains:
"Hollow" was inspired by a conversation about ideology and its destructive potential. Ideology, to me, is the root of all evil, pushing politics and religion into dangerous, cult-like territory. It promotes 'thoughtless thought'—a surrender to doctrine without reflection. Androo O’Hearn’s growling yet melodic vocal delivery captures the anger and urgency behind this message perfectly.

The single also highlights Crucial Velocity’s signature blend of dark atmospheres, progressive complexity, and melodic hooks, drawing comparisons to Opeth, Black Sabbath, and Ghost.

The Band Behind the Sound

    Matt Thompson (King Diamond) – Drums
    Androo O’Hearn (Shaolin Death Squad) – Vocals, Keyboards
    Michael Harris (Chastain Harris, Thought Chamber, Darkology) – Lead Guitar
    Nate Bauer – Songwriter, Guitar, Bass, Keyboards
    Gary Long – Mixing/Mastering (Nomad Recording Studio, Dallas, TX)

About Controller

Crucial Velocity’s sophomore album, Controller, releases January 10, 2025, promising a heavier, darker, and more refined sound compared to their 2023 self-titled debut. The first single from the album, "Brainstorm," premiered on November 15, 2024, further cementing the band’s status as a force in the progressive metal scene.

Pre-Orders Open Now

Fans can pre-order Controller in physical or digital formats via the Crucial Velocity website: www.crucial-velocity.com.

About Crucial Velocity

Born from the collaboration between songwriter Nate Bauer and veteran producer Gary Long, Crucial Velocity combines the atmospheric depth of Opeth, Black Sabbath, and Voivod with the melodic sensibilities of Queen, Alice In Chains, and Ghost. Their 2023 self-titled debut album garnered critical acclaim across Metalized, Powerplay, and Rock Hard Italy, with airplay on independent radio worldwide.

For press inquiries or interview requests, contact: zach@metaldevastationradio.com

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