THE MUSIC
THE VIDEOS
Dark Stages E.P. (2023)
Available exclusively on Bandcamp
Released in 2023, Dark Stages is a deeply personal, theatrical, and progressive two-track journey through the shadows of the human condition. Stripping away the polished facade of everyday life, this E.P. explores themes of isolation, self-sabotage, betrayal, and ultimate redemption. It is a raw, sonic theater of the mind where heavy emotions meet intricate, progressive arrangements.
1. My Immortal Beloved
An epic of monumental proportions, "My Immortal Beloved" is a multi-movement masterpiece that mirrors the chaotic cycle of a soul in crisis. Spanning several distinct acts, the song takes the listener on a harrowing journey from the quiet isolation of late-night contemplation to the depths of self-destruction, before fighting its way back to the light.
The song opens with a quiet, heavy isolation ("It’s late and the world is still asleep...") before spiraling into the chaotic grip of addiction, guilt, and internal demons. A chillingly atmospheric section capturing the feeling of paralysis and being preyed upon by one's own darkest thoughts.
2. The Puppet of Yesteryear
A dramatic, theatrical piece of storytelling, "The Puppet of Yesteryear" tells a classic tale of heartbreak, class division, and bitter betrayal.
The song contrasts a lavish, royal wedding with the silent agony of a discarded lover watching from the shadows. The narrator realizes they were never a partner, but merely a toy—a "puppet" manipulated for someone else’s gain. Pierced with sharp lyricism and driving progressive rhythms, this track delivers a devastating emotional climax, leaving listeners with the haunting, lingering question: "...tell me who will love the lost?"
Behind the Music: Facts & Trivia
An Uncanny Coincidence: "My Immortal Beloved" was heavily inspired by the structure of Genesis's legendary prog-rock masterpiece "Supper's Ready." In an incredible stroke of cosmic irony, both songs clock in at the exact same runtime: 23:05.
A Song Decades in the Making: "The Puppet of Yesteryear" has a rich history. It was originally written by Shawn in 1990, penned by candlelight on his bedroom floor. The track's highly theatrical, emotional lyricism was heavily influenced by the dramatic styling of early Marillion. It was first performed and recorded by Shawn's very first group, The Others, for an album that was ultimately shelved and never released back in 1990.
Shawn later re-recorded the track in 2000 for a highly limited solo release.
The version featured on Dark Stages is actually the third incarnation of the song. Originally tracked in the mid-2000s, the files were carefully unearthed, completely re-recorded, remixed, and remastered to become the definitive version released in 2023.
Dark Stages is a listening experience meant to be absorbed in its entirety.
Head over to Bandcamp to listen, support, and lose yourself in the music.