(MUCK POOL NEWS) END OF ABYSS – "ESCAPE TO A NEW EMPIRE" (PROGRESSIVE METAL)

Finnish progressive metal project End of Abyss has dropped its debut concept album, Escape to a New Empire, today on October 23, 2026. What began as a solo endeavor by Petrus Syvänperä in the early 2000s has evolved into a full-scale band production. The record delivers a cinematic, medieval-inspired fantasy narrative that tackles real-world institutional power structures, escapism, and societal control.
"The music speaks for itself. One person swipes left, another finds a lifelong friend," says lead guitarist Alpo Pöytäkangas.
"The goal was to create a progressive metal album without sonic or artistic compromises. We wanted to build music that transports the listener to another world while also encouraging reflection on our own time," says composer and producer Petrus Syvänperä.
"What stands out most about the album is its versatility. Every song reveals new details with each listen, yet the overall journey remains cohesive from beginning to end. The compositions and arrangements have been carefully crafted to serve the story and atmosphere," explains guitarist Juha-Matti "Masa" Berg.
"To me, End of Abyss is above all an incredible story of growth. We came a long way even during the period when I was involved in the production. If I were asked to write the story of how this album was made, I would title it: 'End of Abyss: From a Dream to a Masterpiece'," comments vocalist Mikko Herranen.
"During the making of this album, I learned more than I could ever have imagined at the beginning of the project. Looking back, there are many things that would have been useful to know in advance," Syvänperä laughs.
Quick Highlights:
The Sound: Heavy progressive metal mixed with sweeping symphonic arrangements and ambitious melodic sensibilities.

The Narrative: A protagonist enters a dreamworld to fight an enemy, only to discover the darkest forces are rooted deeply within society itself.

The Evolution: Formed in Jyväskylä, Finland, the project tracked demos for over a decade in a home studio before recruiting veteran scene musicians in 2024 to complete the lineup.
Album Details:
Release Date: October 23, 2026

Production: Mixed and mastered by Mikko Herranen. Recorded at Noise Floor Studio, Musakonttori, and Syvänperä’s home studio.

Lineup: Petrus Syvänperä (Composition), Mikko Herranen (Vocals), Alpo Pöytäkangas (Guitar), Janne Koskenkorva (Bass).

FFO: Kamelot, Ayreon, Symphony X, Stam1na, Queen

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