Abigail Williams have confirmed a string of headline dates beginning January 30 as they continue to tour in support of their recently released full-length debut, In the Shadow of a Thousand Suns. Produced by James Murphy and featuring contributions from Trym Torson (Emperor/Zyklon), the album topped the CMJ charts the week ending December 5. MTV2/Headbangers Ball world premiered the sextet’s video for the song “Into the Ashes†online December 4 with the broadcast premiere on December 6.
“Response to our album from our fans has been awesome and we are very grateful for the support our fans have given us on tour. We are stoked on Trym’s drumming on the album and James Murphy’s mix really brought the whole project to life. We are really looking forward to getting back on the road in support of the new record.”
A year-long recording project that utilized studios in the US and abroad, In the Shadow of a Thousand Suns features ten songs showcasing the young band’s dynamic songwriting. Metal Maniacs calls the album, “an unholy alliance between the beauty of the keyboards and the beast of speed. There’s an impressive level of musicianship that crackles with a blazing metal heart.†Orange County-based Mean Street Magazine asserts, “In the Shadow of a Thousand Suns is an epic feast of shrill, feverish riffs, luxurious keyboards and caterwauling vocals. It recalls Emperor’s landmark In The Nightside Eclipse but with more sheer muscle.†The album sold over 1,200 units according to Nielsen Soundscan its first week of release and is a consistent weekly seller with over 20,000 units now shipped globally.
Abigail Williams have been a focus of attention for both fan and critics since their formation several years back. Popular news portal Blabbermouth, noted of the band’s 2007 EP, “Legend lays a firm foundation for greatness to come.†The band have had to endure numerous line up changes and public scrutiny fighting back from a near collapse in late 2007. Vocalist/founder Sorceron says of the band’s shaky beginnings, “things started out rough finding a solid lineup for the band but our current lineup is much stronger then what we started out with. This is not the same band that people witnessed on tour from May 2007. This is something much more focused and we are determined to conquer any obstacles we may face. It’s been a long, bumpy road full of unexpected trials and tribulations but we are in it for the long haul.”
Currently featuring guitarists Mike Wilson and Bjornthor, keyboardist Ellyllon, bassist Plaguehammer, and drummer Samus with Sorceron, Abigail Williams have toured the US and Europe several times including their most recent tour with The Faceless completed in November. The band were hand-picked to open for Emperor at their sold-out performance in Los Angeles (House of Blues) in July of 2006. In the Shadow of a Thousand Suns is available in stores now via Candlelight Records.
Abigail Williams, with Rose Funeral, Burning the Masses, The Breathing Process in support:
1/30/2009 Mac’s Bar – Lansing, MI
1/31/2009 The Attic – Dayton, OH
2/01/2009 The Jukebox – Rochester, NY
2/02/2009 The Haunt – Yonkers, NY
2/03/2009 Crocodile Rock – Allentown, PA
2/04/2009 Jaxx – W. Springfield, VA
2/05/2009 Peppermint Club – Virginia Beach, VA
2/06/2009 Brewery – Raleigh, NC
2/07/2009 Sector 7G – Augusta, GA
2/08/2009 Fuel Coffehouse – Jacksonville, FL
2/09/2009 Orpheum – Tampa, FL
2/12/2009 Java Jazz – Houston, TX
2/13/2009 White Rabbit – San Antonio, TX
2/14/2009 Rose Park Activity Bldg – Abilene, TX
2/15/2009 Plano Centre – Plano, TX
2/16/2009 Lonestar Event Center – Lubbock, TX
2/17/2009 Chic’s – El Pazo, TX
2/19/2009 Karma – Victorville, CA