Polish post-rock heavyweights TIDES FROM NEBULA have returned with the release of their new single “Rhino,” accompanied by a cinematic music video that premiered today.
The track is the second single from their upcoming album Instant Rewards, which will drop on November 8, 2024, via Nebula Records. This marks the band’s first full-length release in five years, following 2019’s From Voodoo to Zen.
While Rhino certainly showcases the band’s trademark experimentalism, combining progressive influences with atmospheric soundscapes, it doesn’t quite pack the same punch as some of their earlier, more emotionally raw material. It’s a very solid track, layered and thought-provoking, but perhaps lacks the immediate breathlessness of their earlier releases—something I attribute partially to personal nostalgia and my connection to the band from their early days.
However, there’s no denying the artistic vision and conceptual depth at play here, which makes Rhino a compelling listen, especially within the context of their live performances.
Speaking of performances, anyone who’s had the chance to see TIDES FROM NEBULA live knows that their music truly comes alive on stage. The immersive quality of their sound, with its intricate builds and sweeping dynamics, is designed for the live experience.
What’s particularly exciting about Rhino is the visual accompaniment. The band has moved beyond the typical post-rock aesthetic of abstract visualizers, offering instead a cinematic music video that feels more like a short film. Directed by Maciej Karbowski, the video adds an extra layer of depth to the track, drawing viewers into its narrative rather than simply complementing the music.
The switch to this storytelling format is a refreshing change, especially in a genre where minimalistic visual presentations have become the norm.
The upcoming album Instant Rewards promises to be an exploration of contrasts, with the band balancing their progressive tendencies with raw energy and emotional subtlety. Self-produced in their Nebula Studio, the album reflects a return to their roots, crafted entirely on their own terms.
As guitarist Maciej Karbowski puts it, “This album is the closest reflection of who we are. Working independently gave us full control over the process, allowing us to create something that’s both raw and true to our vision.”
Instant Rewards consists of nine tracks, including the previously released single “Burned to the Ground” and the latest offering, Rhino. Both tracks hint at a bold new chapter for the band, with a mix of ambient textures and heavy post-rock elements that define their signature sound.
The album drops on November 8, 2024, and will be available on all major streaming platforms, as well as in physical formats. You can grab it HERE.
Fans can look forward to seeing TIDES FROM NEBULA live on tour in support of the album, with dates available below.
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