In two weeks, Canadian deathcore pioneers DESPISED ICON unleash their seventh full-length album, Shadow Work which will be released on October 31, 2025 via Nuclear Blast Records. The album stands as the band’s most fine-tuned and dynamic effort to date, balancing relentless speed, crushing grooves, and morbid melodies, while remaining true to their signature blend of extreme death metal and hardcore grit.
From crushing riffs and blistering blast beats to a seismic breakdown, ‘The Apparition’ unleashes DESPISED ICON‘s dynamic chaos. A visceral anthem of loyalty tested and spirits fractured beyond repair, its lyrics are a haunting exploration of betrayal, brotherhood, and inner ruin. Watch the music video directed by Simon Marchand of Disjonctés Production, here: https://youtu.be/-ivNyOIE3n0
DESPISED ICON‘s Eric Jarrin comments, “We are really stoked to present this third single to all of you. ‘The Apparition’ holds a special place in my heart as it is the last song I wrote for this record. With the help of Alex for the arrangements, I allowed myself to push the melodic enveloppe a bit further and came up with one of the most crushing breakdowns on the album.
This song also marks our first collaboration with Simon and Disjonctés Productions. Not only did he understand the very personal lyrics of ‘The Apparition,’ Simon found a very artistic way to translate it into images while encompassing the energy of the band performing. Thanks for watching.”
Pre-order/pre-save Shadow Work:
https://despisedicon.bfan.link/shadow-work
Stream ‘The Apparition‘:
https://despisedicon.bfan.link/the-apparition
Watch ‘The Apparition’: https://youtu.be/-ivNyOIE3n0
Shadow Work is now available for pre-order in the following formats:
- CD Jewelcase
- Gold & Black Corona Vinyl
Shadow Work was produced by the band’s own Alex Erian and Eric Jarrin, while Christian Donaldson (CRYPTOPSY, SHADOW OF INTENT, SIGNS OF THE SWARM) handled mixing and mastering. The album marks a significant chapter for a band whose core lineup has remained largely unchanged since its inception. It’s a deeply introspective record that reflects both personal growth and the turbulence of the world around us. The artwork for the album was created by Eliran Kantor (HATEBREED, THY ART IS MURDER, CAVALERA).
