Chicago-based groove metal powerhouse REPENTANCE has just dropped "Among The Wolves," the third potent single to emerge from their highly anticipated studio album, "Retaliate." The album, slated for release on November 27, 2026, through the esteemed label Noble Demon, now carries a profound weight of tribute following the tragic passing of founding member and driving force Shaun Glass on July 1, 2026. This latest single offers a raw and visceral expression of intense emotion, mirroring the turmoil and resilience the band is navigating.
A Visceral Cry of Betrayal: "Among The Wolves"
Vocalist Adam Gilley described "Among The Wolves" as one of his personal favorites from the upcoming album, articulating its core message with stark clarity: "This song expresses intense feelings of betrayal, anger, and disillusionment toward someone who has caused deep emotional pain." This sentiment resonates with a primal ferocity, a characteristic hallmark of REPENTANCE’s signature crushing groove metal sound. The track’s release serves as a potent reminder of the band’s ability to channel profound human experience into powerful sonic landscapes. The intricate guitar work, the relentless rhythmic foundation, and Gilley’s commanding vocal delivery coalesce to create an auditory experience that is both cathartic and commanding, embodying the very essence of the band’s artistic identity.
A Shift in Release, A Shift in Purpose: The Impact of Shaun Glass’s Passing
The unveiling of "Among The Wolves" arrives during a period of immense grief for REPENTANCE. The unexpected and tragic death of Shaun Glass, a pivotal figure who shaped the band’s very foundation and sonic direction, has irrevocably altered the band’s trajectory. In a profound act of respect for their fallen brother, friend, and bandmate, REPENTANCE made the difficult decision to postpone the release of "Retaliate" from its originally scheduled summer debut to its current late November date. This delay is not merely a logistical adjustment; it signifies a recalibration of purpose, transforming the album’s release into a deeply personal and public memorial.
Shaun Glass: A Legacy Forged in Chicago’s Metal Crucible
Shaun Glass’s impact on the Chicago metal scene is immeasurable, spanning over four decades of dedicated artistry. His influence extended far beyond REPENTANCE, leaving an indelible mark on numerous influential bands. His musical journey included significant contributions to TERMINAL DEATH, SINDROME, BROKEN HOPE, SOIL, DIRGE WITHIN, and THE BLOODLINE, solidifying his status as a multifaceted and respected musician. Glass was not just a guitarist; he was a visionary, a mentor, and a cornerstone of the underground metal community. His passing represents a significant loss to the genre as a whole, leaving a void that will be difficult to fill. The dedication of "Retaliate" to his memory serves as a testament to the profound respect and affection he garnered throughout his career.
"Retaliate": A Final Testament to a Visionary Founder
The forthcoming album, "Retaliate," is meticulously produced by Alex Lackner at Accelerated Sound and expertly mixed by Ari Mihalopoulos at Inner Light Studio. These production credits highlight the commitment to sonic excellence that has characterized REPENTANCE’s discography. For "Retaliate," however, the album transcends its role as a collection of new material; it has become a final, poignant tribute to its founder. Each note, each riff, each lyrical passage is now imbued with the spirit and legacy of Shaun Glass, offering listeners a chance to connect with his final artistic vision. The album’s title, "Retaliate," can be interpreted on multiple levels – perhaps as a defiant response to the injustices of life, or as a fierce musical statement against the void left by Glass’s absence.
"Fade Into Silence": A Heartfelt Homage
Earlier this past September, REPENTANCE offered a deeply personal tribute to Glass with the release of a music video for their single "Fade Into Silence." This track, designated as the second single from "Retaliate," was specifically chosen for its profound connection to their late bandmate. Gilley elaborated on this choice, stating, "’Fade Into Silence’ would be the [second] single from the record because we wanted to dedicate this release to Shaun Glass. Of all the songs on the record, ‘Fade Into Silence’ just felt like the perfect song to honor him – especially because it was a song that Shaun himself wrote." This revelation underscores the deeply personal nature of the album and the band’s unwavering commitment to celebrating Glass’s contributions.
Gilley’s poignant words further illuminate the emotional weight of "Fade Into Silence" and the profound impact of Glass’s loss: "His unexpected passing has left a major hole in our hearts and in this band. Shaun wasn’t just a bandmate or a friend; he was our brother. He was the one who created this band and helped give it its identity, and he was deeply loved by every one of us. It’s difficult to put into words what his loss means to us, and things will never quite be the same without him. This song now carries a meaning we never expected it to have. Every note is a reminder of Shaun, his creativity, his passion, and everything he gave to this band. We’re proud to dedicate ‘Fade Into Silence’ to our brother and friend, Shaun Glass. His music, his influence, and his memory will always be a part of us. Rest easy, Shaun. This one is for you."
The inclusion of "Fade Into Silence" as a single, particularly one written by Glass himself, transforms it into a living memorial. The song’s melancholic yet powerful narrative now serves as a direct conduit to the band’s collective grief and their enduring admiration for their lost bandmate. The music video accompanying the track likely further amplifies this sentiment, offering visual interpretations of their shared experiences and Glass’s enduring presence.
A Chronicle of REPENTANCE’s Musical Evolution
Formed in 2018, REPENTANCE has rapidly carved out a distinct niche within the modern metal landscape. Their sound is characterized by a potent fusion of crushing groove metal, intricate technicality, and an unwavering intensity. The band’s journey began with their debut album, "God For A Day," released in 2020, which immediately established their aggressive and dynamic approach. Following this initial success, they secured a record deal with Noble Demon, leading to the release of the EP "Volume I – Reborn" in 2021. This EP marked a significant moment with the introduction of vocalist Adam Gilley, whose powerful vocal stylings would become integral to the band’s evolving sound. Their sophomore album, "The Process Of Human Demise" (2023), further cemented their reputation, showcasing a sophisticated and modern interpretation of groove metal and thrash influences, demonstrating a clear artistic progression and a growing maturity in their songwriting.
The release of "Retaliate" represents the next significant chapter in this evolutionary narrative. While the album is undoubtedly a testament to the band’s continued musical prowess, its context is now irrevocably tied to the memory of Shaun Glass. The sonic exploration and thematic depth of the album are expected to reflect the band’s resilience and their determination to honor their founder’s legacy.
Supporting Shaun Glass’s Family: A Call to Action
In recognition of the profound personal and financial impact of Shaun Glass’s passing, a crowdfunding campaign has been established to support his family. The initiative aims to cover hospital bills incurred during his final weeks on life support and to provide future stability for his son, Maddux. This endeavor highlights the deep sense of community within the metal scene and the collective desire to support those affected by such a devastating loss. The link to this vital campaign, https://www.gofundme.com/f/a-life-in-metal-a-future-for-his-son-shaun-glass, serves as a direct channel for fans and supporters to contribute to a cause that honors Glass’s memory and secures a brighter future for his loved ones. The response to this campaign will undoubtedly reflect the widespread respect and admiration that Shaun Glass commanded throughout his illustrious career.
"Retaliate" Track Listing: A Journey Through Sound and Emotion
The full track listing for "Retaliate" offers a glimpse into the thematic and sonic landscape of the album:
- From Violence To Silence
- What’s Done Is Done
- Retaliate
- Unholy Guardian
- Fade Into Silence
- Among The Wolves
- Annihilate
- Concrete Coffin
- Bleeding Out
- Blood Of The Earth
The titles themselves suggest a narrative arc that likely grapples with themes of conflict, consequence, loss, and resilience – emotions that are particularly resonant given the circumstances of the album’s creation. The inclusion of "From Violence To Silence" as the opening track, and "Fade Into Silence" as the fifth, hints at a thematic exploration of transitions and the profound quietude that follows intense upheaval.
REPENTANCE: The Band
The current lineup of REPENTANCE, as credited for this album, comprises:
- Adam Gilley – Vocals
- Eric Burns – Guitar
- Eric Karol – Bass
- Brandon White – Drums
While Shaun Glass is no longer physically present, his indelible contribution as a guitarist is central to the identity of "Retaliate" and the band’s legacy. His presence is felt not only through his songwriting but also through the very fabric of the music he helped create.
Looking Ahead: A Legacy Endures
The release of "Retaliate" on November 27, 2026, will be a significant event for the metal community. It represents not only a new body of work from a respected band but also a final, powerful musical testament to the enduring spirit of Shaun Glass. REPENTANCE’s commitment to honoring their founder’s legacy through their music ensures that his influence will continue to resonate for years to come. The band’s ability to channel their grief into such potent artistic expression speaks volumes about their strength, their dedication, and the profound bond they shared with Shaun. As the world awaits the full release, the singles "Fade Into Silence" and "Among The Wolves" offer compelling previews of an album that is destined to be remembered as a deeply personal and artistically significant tribute. The photos and videos accompanying this announcement serve as visual anchors, grounding the narrative in the tangible reality of the band’s creative process and their shared journey.
