EMPYRE strike back and announce the release of the third installment of their acoustic journey: Just A Ride (Acoustic). The single is accompanied by a video, which was premiered on the band’s socials earlier in the week can be watched here – https://youtu.be/oeEX82m5c-Y
EMPYRE continue to stand out, not only for their unique sound and captivating musicianship, but also for being as accomplished and mesmerising with their acoustic side as they are with the electric tracks.
Just A Ride (Acoustic)is a stirring twist on the darker, electric original. It’s now more nuanced, more emotive. EMPYRE refrain from simply re-creating the electric arrangement in an acoustic format; they take their own track to an entirely different level, crafting a sonic dimension that is almost woven into the fabric of its lyrics. The original version of Just A Rideis inspired by American comedian and satirist Bill Hicks, and now the spirit of the song fully shines in the astounding lyric video, which adds another layer to the track, illustrating it with exquisite drawings, produced by Drew Hamley of Unit 15 Productions.
Once again, EMPYRE captures our imagination and exceeds expectations.
Lead guitarist Did Coles comments: “‘”Just A Ride (Acoustic)” is our introspective ode to the iconic Bill Hicks whose philosophy on life influenced the song. We’re really excited to display our acoustic ‘other side’ with this single and the song has translated well to a newly arranged acoustic studio track. This version includes new instrumental parts that mimic the feel of a rollercoaster, which is again a nod to the Bill Hicks’ monologue on life, and is reflected too in the new music video”
EMPYRE truly are a kaleidoscope of sonic colours and capabilities, they’ve adapted quickly to the new challenges this pandemic has brought. In fact, the band are bucking a trend by making the most of the lockdown and its aftermath, turning a crisis into an opportunity and showing a resilience and resourcefulness that not many others could have mastered by delivering fresh exciting content every week. They welcomed fans to peek behind the curtains and get up-close and personal with the “Empyre at Home” series and Spotify Playlists. They’ve invited fans “inside” the music with ‘Isolation Sessions’ and they’ve even teamed up with international guitar publications providing guitar lessons; one was recently featured on Guitar World’s “Sick Riffs”, and can be watched here – https://youtu.be/6y64v6mOick.
Alongside their digital presence, EMPYRE are “re-entering” the real world and plan to re-initiate their substantiallive activity. The band will play an outdoor and socially distanced show in August in their hometown, and are confirmed to perform at festivals across the UK in late 2020, including an incredible main stage show at this year Planet Rockstock.
Just A Ride (Acoustic) is the third acoustic single EMPYRE officially releases and it follows a successful 2019, which saw EMPYRE launching the critically acclaimed and truly accomplished debut album Self Aware, a collection of 11 “all killer no filler” tracks, showcasing a band with skilful songwriting and a uniquely distinguishable sound.Self Aware led to Planet Rock proclaiming the band “Ones To Watch” and Classic Rock Magazine featuring them in the prestigious “High Hopes” piece.
UK Tour Dates
Fri 14thAug – The Black Prince, Northampton (Outdoor & socially distanced)
Fri 18thSep – Call Of The Wild Festival, Lincoln
Fri 13thNov – HRH AOR
Fri 20th Nov – Resorts World Arena, Birmingham – Acoustic performance before Thunder & Ugly Kid Joe
27-28th Nov – WinterStorm, Troon, Scotland
4-6thDec – Planet Rockstock, Trecco Bay, Wales
Empyre is: Henrik Steenholdt – vocals & rhythm guitar, Did Coles – lead guitar, Grant Hockley – bass – Elliot Bale – drums
Quick Links
– Guitar Lessons with Did– https://www.facebook.com/EMPYRE/videos/2723059858020042/
– “Empyre at Home”– https://www.facebook.com/EMPYRE/videos/608632076410676/
– Isolation Sessions– https://www.facebook.com/EMPYRE/videos/668031223768089/
– Spotify Playlist– https://spoti.fi/2YHvr6B
– Campaign update –https://www.empyre.co.uk/epk
Useful Links
Website: www.empyre.co.uk / Facebook: www.facebook.com/EMPYRE /
YouTube: www.youtube.com/empyrerock/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/empyrerock
Streaming service: https://awal.lnk.to/selfaware
