SOM has unveiled the video for “Nightmares,” the new single from their upcoming third album, Let the Light In, set for release on March 14 through Pelagic Records. Known for their self-described “doom pop,” the band blends heavy, emotionally charged compositions with shoegaze-inspired atmospheres, a formula that has continually evolved since their 2019 debut.
The latest single, “Nightmares,” demonstrates SOM’s ability to merge extremes. It juxtaposes lush vocal melodies and reverb-soaked guitars with a crushing metal breakdown, creating a dynamic sonic landscape. The accompanying video, directed by Joel Villegas (Poison the Well, Holy Fawn), is a glitched-out, post-apocalyptic fever dream, perfectly mirroring the song’s intensity and themes.
The forthcoming album, Let the Light In, is a direct result of upheaval within the band. During its creation, founding drummer Duncan Rich departed unexpectedly, forcing SOM to adapt mid-process. This pivotal moment led to a year-long restructuring in 2023, during which the group re-recorded much of the album and explored new configurations. The result is a record rooted in resilience, delving deep into the human experience while seeking growth and reconciliation through its raw yet melodic sound.
Thematically, Let the Light In marks a shift in SOM’s storytelling. While their debut, The Fall, focused on themes of rock bottom, and its follow-up, The Shape of Everything, reflected on the external darkness of the world, this new release turns inward. It explores primal impulses and the vibrancy found in our connections with others, offering moments of catharsis and hope.
SOM’s journey has been shaped not only by their recorded output but also by relentless touring. Since 2019, the band has performed across 21 countries, sharing stages with acts like Katatonia, Solstafir, and Slow Crush. This extensive live experience has profoundly impacted their creative process, imbuing Let the Light In with a hard-earned maturity.
Let the Light In will be available on March 14, with tickets for SOM’s U.S. tour alongside Earthside now on sale.
Tour Dates with Earthside
2/21 — Boston, MA — Middle East
2/22 — Montreal, QC — Bar le Ritz
2/23 — Toronto, ON — Drake Underground
2/25 — Detroit, MI — Sanctuary
2/26 — Cleveland, OH — The Foundry
2/27 — Chicago, IL — Beat Kitchen
3/1 — Nashville, TN — The End
3/2 — Atlanta, GA — The Masquerade
3/5 — Orlando, FL — Conduit
3/7 — Baltimore, MD — Metro Gallery
3/8 — Brooklyn, NY — The Meadows
“Nightmares” is available now on streaming platforms.
