sleep token drop 'emergence' from their upcoming album - review
- Hayes Rose
- Mar 15, 2025
- 2 min read
Sleep Token has once again sent their devoted following into a feral frenzy with the release of "Emergence," the lead single from their upcoming album 'Even in Arcadia', set to drop on May 9, 2025. As always, the mysterious collective blends familiar elements with bold experimentation, and while initial reactions have been mixed, this track proves that Sleep Token is still pushing boundaries while staying true to their essence.
The first listen? I’ll admit, I was scared. There’s been chatter online about the track being "overproduced," but as I delved deeper, I found those signature Sleep Token elements still intact. Vessel’s voice remains as breathtaking as ever, but this time, there’s an unmistakable confidence in both his delivery and the lyricism. The love story woven throughout "Emergence" is utterly gorgeous, enriched by harmonies that feel ethereal and almost otherworldly.
The line "Go ahead and wrap your arms around me" took me by surprise. At first, I wasn’t sure how to feel about it, but with each listen, it’s growing on me. And then, like a familiar echo from Take Me Back to Eden, Vessel launches into his signature 'rap' like section, an iconic touch that instantly transports listeners to Sleep Token’s past work.
As the song gradually builds, the Drummer who goes by the name II (two) subtly makes his presence known before everything erupts into the Sleep Token we all adore: distorted guitars, precise yet chaotic drum patterns, and that intoxicating mix of brutality and beauty. Just as I was settling into the groove, thinking about how insane this would sound live, the unexpected happened....
was that a saxophone? Yes, a saxophone. a sexy saxophone!
And suddenly, Emergence isn’t just a Sleep Token track; it’s a full blown experience. Are we stepping into ‘baby making metal’ territory again? Perhaps. But whatever this feeling is, I’m obsessed with it.
The biggest question lingering in my mind is: what story will Even in Arcadia tell? Sleep Token's lore runs deep, and those who have followed their journey know this album will likely carry its own enigmatic narrative. With tours already announced (patiently waiting for an Australia date!), it’s clear this era is going to be something special.
So how do we feel about Emergence? I, for one, am diving headfirst into the rabbit hole alongside the loyal Sleep Token fanbase to decode what’s coming next. One thing’s for certain. this journey is just beginning
pre-order 'even in arcadia' here
rating 9/10
