Villain of the Story Drops Label, Prepares to Release New Album, “Ashes” on August 31st

After a mutual agreement took place in January of this year, Minneapolis metalcore rockers Villain of the Story separated from their label, Stay Sick. On August 31st, the group plans to independently release their highly anticipated album titled, Ashes.

Comprised of members Christian Grey (Vocals), Logan Bartholomew (Vocals), Cody Pauly (Guitar), and Sean Wayne (Bass), the four are determined to build on the success their label helped them achieve.

On July 17th, the boys in black released the title track from their album, below.

“Ashes” is about the experience one may feel when entering a full on panic attack. Feeling stuck, helpless, and unable to even catch your breath to breathe properly to calm yourself down.

Frontman Christian Grey-Nygaard talks about the experience of being signed and the liberation (and uncertainty) of being in full control of the band’s fate.

“It was cool being on a label and working with a team. We learned a lot about the industry. Having that extra support was great. Mike Milford did everything he could to position us in the right direction, however, the company in which the label was partnered with was in control of the money, and it held us back in many areas. Stay Sick supported our decision to part ways because they wanted us to grow. We’ve kept in contact with Milford and he’s said they recently found a new partner and things are looking great for the label’s future. I’m really stoked for them.”

He continues, “Being independent is definitely a challenge as there’s no one to really ask if you’re truly making smart moves, but we believe in what we’re doing so we know we’ll make the best calls, and in the areas we fail they will be lessons to learn and improve on for our future.”

Villain Of The Story will be having a hometown release show at The Garage on September 1st. The first 50 people to pre-order Ashes have a chance to win a roundtrip airfare to attend the event. If you’re lucky enough to live within driving distance, you can purchase your concert tickets for just five bucks, here.