Montreal-based metal band KILLED BY SORROW released its new album, “Empire of Excess,” on October 23, 2026. The ten-track record retains the aggression of the band’s early sound while emphasizing more refined production and tighter songwriting.

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Rhythm guitarist Samuel Ham says the album establishes continuity between the band’s roots and its current musical direction. According to Ham, “Empire of Excess” combines the aggression that defined KILLED BY SORROW’s early sound with a more mature mix and a more pronounced atmosphere. The band’s aim was to bring heaviness and melody together while preserving each track’s individual narrative.

The album’s lyrics explore themes ranging from societal collapse and personal struggles to betrayal, solidarity, and self-discovery. The title track, ‘Empire of Excess,’ focuses on consumerism and societal decline, while ‘The End is Near’ centers on an apocalyptic scenario. ‘Never Give Up’ introduces a message of perseverance and resilience amid the album’s darker themes.

Musically, KILLED BY SORROW aims to bring together melodic passages, hard-hitting breakdowns, punk-infused energy, and memorable choruses. The album’s varied moods are another key part of its approach. Ham explains that every song was reviewed collectively by the band, with bassist Martin Bersier-Carpentier and Ham sharing primary songwriting duties. Bersier-Carpentier played a significant role in shaping the record, contributing to the band’s evolving sound and bringing fresh ideas to the songwriting process.

Following the previously released videos for ‘The End is Near,’ ‘The Burial,’ and ‘Betrayal,’ “Empire of Excess” expands the band’s output with a ten-track full-length. KILLED BY SORROW wrote additional material to expand the project beyond its original scope and complete the album. The band also reports that work on its next album is already well underway.

Running 33 minutes and 55 seconds, “Empire of Excess” is available now via Spotify and the band’s Bandcamp page.

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