Chicago-based industrial rock powerhouse DERISION CULT has dropped their latest single “Abdication Day,” a track that promises to captivate listeners with its high-octane energy and profound lyrical themes. The single serves as a precursor to their highly anticipated EP, Mercenary Notes Pt 2, scheduled for release on March 14, 2025, through Glitchmode Recordings.
“Abdication Day” is a frenetic rocker, reminiscent of JUDAS PRIEST’s iconic guitar riffs blended with the live, heavy drum beats that drive the track forward. The song features a dynamic range of vocal styles—from the robotic intonations akin to SKINNY PUPPY to soaring high-octave metal screams. Throughout, heavy guitars dominate, setting a relentless pace that mirrors the song’s message of resistance and self-authenticity.
The lyrics of “Abdication Day” are inspired by a poignant conversation between band founder Dave and his stepson during a flight back from Ireland. Reflecting on the pressures of daily life and societal expectations, Dave recalls advising his stepson on the importance of self-definition, a theme that resonates deeply in the song’s narrative. “It’s up to you to define how people see you, so own it,” Dave remarked, a line that has since become central to the track’s message.
This song, originally a demo from eight years ago, remains true to its roots and is a favorite in Dave’s solo acoustic sets around Chicago, where it transforms into a ballad reminiscent of a Kris Kristofferson tune.
“Abdication Day” is not just a musical release; it’s a bold statement about fighting against the overstimulation and media manipulation that cloud our identities. DERISION CULT invites listeners to a sonic journey that encourages standing firm in one’s truth amidst the chaos of modern life.
The single is available now on all major streaming platforms. Fans of the band and new listeners alike can look forward to the full release of Mercenary Notes Pt 2 this coming March, which promises more of DERISION CULT’s signature blend of industrial rock and introspective lyricism.
Produced by Sean Payne at Glitch Mode Studios, Mercenary Notes Pt 2 continues DERISION CULT’s journey through aggressive industrial metal, pulling influences from thrash, blues, and outlaw country. The EP features six tracks that tackle themes of survival, technology, and the power dynamics within media manipulation. Alongside Reeves Gabrels, the EP includes guest appearances from Pete Berwick and Ronaldo Rodriguez, with remixes contributed by Justin Broadrick (GODFLESH) and CYANOTIC.
About DERISION CULT:
Formed in 2014, DERISION CULT has carved out a space in the industrial metal genre with their hard-hitting fusion of thrash guitars, industrial rhythms, and provocative social commentary. Led by frontman Dave McAnally, the band’s music addresses themes of media manipulation, technology, and survival in a rapidly evolving world. Signed to Glitch Mode Recordings in 2021, DERISION CULT continues to push boundaries, collaborating with prominent names in industrial music such as Reeves Gabrels and Justin Broadrick.
DERISION CULT is:
- Dave McAnally – Vocals, Guitars, Programming
- Sean Payne – Production, Synths, Programming, Backing Vocals
- Brad Huston – Guitars, Programming
- Jesse Hunt – Percussion
Album Credits:
- Produced by: Sean Payne
- Recording Studio: Glitch Mode Recordings
- Engineered by: Brad Huston
- Mastered by: Sean Payne, Brad Huston
- Album Artwork: Jim Marcus
- Featured Guests:
- Reeves Gabrels (DAVID BOWIE, THE CURE) – Lead guitars on “Warning Signs” and “Radiation Blues”
- Pete Berwick – Vocals on “Joker’s Wild (And Kings Are Dead)” and “Influence”
- Ronaldo Rodriguez – Organ on “Joker’s Wild (And Kings Are Dead)”
- Justin Broadrick (GODFLESH, JESU) – Remix of “Warning Signs”
- Cyanotic – Remix of “Radiation Blues”
Tracklist:
- “Where Are You Now?”
- “Joker’s Wild (And Kings Are Dead)”
- “Warning Signs”
- “Radiation Blues”
- “Influence”
- “Abdication Day”
- “Warning Signs (Justin Broadrick Mix)”
- “Radiation Blues (Cyanotic Mix)”