“Fear for fear, annihilate it all.”
Genre-bending innovators Fromjoy have surprise-released their latest single “Ataraxia”, completing the rollout of their new EP, Ataraxia 19.13.8.1.19.
While the intro track, “Etana”, serves as a transitional bridge between the band’s self-titled work and this new chapter, it would be easy to assume Fromjoy planned to pick up where they left off. That assumption, however, couldn’t be further from the truth. Ataraxia 19.13.8.1.19 sees the band boldly venturing into uncharted sonic territory, yet without abandoning the signature style that’s earned them their devoted following.
As the first official release since the departure of former vocalist Denver Dowling, one question has loomed large: What now? This EP sets out to answer just that, showcasing the vocal versatility and growth of both Kellan King and Giovanni Alaniz, who now take center stage as the band’s core vocalists.
Long-time fans will already be familiar with their talents. Giovanni (Gio) has traditionally provided clean vocals, notably shining on “Of the Shapes of Hearts and Humans” from the self-titled project. Kellan (Kel), meanwhile, has consistently contributed harsh vocals across the discography, but now steps fully into the spotlight, taking on the role of lead vocalist, a transition he’s already been making in live settings. The key evolution here lies in how both vocalists have embraced expanded roles, pushing the band’s sound into bold new territory.
With that context, let’s delve into the EP itself, a three-track odyssey of genre fusion and experimentation, where each track feels distinct yet unmistakably Fromjoy.
The opener, “Monochrome“, puts Gio’s haunting vocals front and center. This is his second moment in the spotlight within the band’s growing discography, and it’s nothing short of captivating. Eerie and atmospheric, the track masterfully builds tension, drawing on the emotional depth first explored in “Of the Shapes of Hearts and Humans” but expanding it into an even richer sonic landscape. “Monochrome” is a striking demonstration of Fromjoy’s ability to craft mood and texture.
Next up is “Eternal.Harvest”, which swerves hard into heavier territory. Drawing from the band’s hardcore roots, the track marks Kel’s first true moment as a lead in the studio, and he meets the moment with ease. Chaotic, aggressive, and raw, “Eternal.Harvest” is a powerful addition to Fromjoy’s catalogue and a thrilling introduction to Kel’s full vocal range in a recorded context.
Closing the EP is the title track, “Ataraxia”, a sprawling, genre-defying statement that brings everything full circle. It fuses elements from both preceding tracks and calls back to past material, weaving in nods to the band’s debut single “Hollow.Treatment”. With rapid-fire shifts in tone and style, “Ataraxia“ is pure controlled chaos, an exhilarating showcase of everything that makes Fromjoy so compelling. It answers some questions, raises new ones, and leaves a lasting impression of a band unafraid to evolve.
In just three tracks, Ataraxia 19.13.8.1.19 achieves something remarkable: it marks both the end of one era and heralds the beginning of another. It’s a testament to the band’s songwriting, vocal strength, and fearless ambition. Whatever comes next for Fromjoy, one thing is clear: this is an outfit on the rise, and they’ve never sounded more confident.
Catch Fromjoy on tour with Orthodox, Mugshot, and Omerta across the US starting June 21st.
Tickets and full tour dates can be found here.