Anathema – “Untouchable part 1” MP3 (PopMatters Premiere)

Anathema began in Liverpool in 1990 as a death metal pioneer, their first label-released album was The Crestfallen EP. They’ve seen many changes in their members and even direction of their sound over the years, gradually trading their death metal for the alternative rock vibe they now feature. Anathema has produced over 11 records, their most recent effort, We’re Here Because We’re Here, which came out in 2010, is followed by Weather Systems, out April 24 through End Records. Producer Steven Wilson went so far as to describe We’re Here Because We’re Here as “definitely among the best albums I’ve had the pleasure to work on”.

Below, check out the new single from Weather Systems, “Untouchable part 1”, making its premiere here on PopMatters. Though they’ve been around for a while, Anathema is continually developing themselves, as evidenced by the comments of lead guitarist Daniel Cavanagh, who said “it feels like we are at a creative peak right now and this album reflects that. Everything from the production to the writing from the performances are a step up from our last album”, though he acknowledges that there is room for creative growth in the future. Taking a trip back to their roots, this album was recorded in Liverpool, North Wales, and Oslo, significant areas that have been critical to Anathema’s development. Weather Systems was produced under the watchful eye of Christer-Andre Cederberg, who has been nominated for five Norwegian Grammys.

Clearly the efforts of this talented group have paid off, as the album has generated positive press already, with Rocksound going as far as to call it “A dazzling collection of highly-charged, progressive and emotively atmospheric rock songs that rarely dip below the euphoric.” Check out “Untouchable part 1”, below, and share your thoughts on the latest piece from versatile band, Anathema.