Toronto-based sextet Beams today shared their new single/video “Heat Potential” off their forthcoming album, Requiem for a Planet, due out May 3rd. Lead vocalist/songwriter Anna Mērnieks-Duffield describes the steady and lush stunner as a celebration of “the inner drive that helps us survive against all odds.” It follows the album’s vibrant lead single “A.W.I.L.” Beams will embark on a North American tour this May to celebrate, including stops at NYC’s Bowery Electric (May 15th) and Chicago’s The Hideout (May 22nd); a full itinerary is listed below. Requiem for a Planet is now available to pre-order HERE.

Described succinctly as “a hike along Grief Mountain with scenic lookouts,” Requiem stakes out new sonic territory for the band. Recorded by Kevin S. McMahon (Swans, Real Estate, Titus Andronicus) at Marcata Recording—a 200-year-old barn at the base of the Shawangunk mountains in New Paltz, NY—Requiem is a world unto itself. Hypnotic vibraphone, purring amps, glistening guitars, and the pull of ghostly violin strings weave intoxicating soundscapes that create a sense of singular intimacy with the listener.

“‘Requiem’ is about grieving the loss of the ‘planet’ we were promised as kids. One where it seemed like we were collectively working to create a more positive future for all, and being faced with the reality that this is simply not true. It’s also about acceptance of this fact, and finding a way to dream up and realize better futures,” explains Mērnieks-Duffield. “We have every right to be angry and sad. But this is our life. If we live in a constant state of reaction to all of the fear-mongering, then the powers that spread those messages around are winning. We have to fight and make spaces to feel joy and love and community.” The album’s governing principle is to make room for joy in music.

Beams Tour Dates:

05/03 – Owen Sound, ON – Heartwood Concert Hall

05/04 – Sarnia, ON – Maud’s

05/09 – Toronto, ON – The Garrison 

05/10 – Kingston, ON – Hotel Wolfe Island

05/11 – Wakefield, PQ – Kaffe 

05/13 – Montreal, PQ – La Sotterenea

05/14 – Worcester, MA – Ralph’s Diner 

05/15 – New York, NY – Bowery Electric 

05/16 – Philadelphia, PA – PhilaMoca

05/17 – Youngstown, OH – Westside Bowl

05/18 – Louisville, KY – Cave Valley Kava 

05/19 – Cincinnati, OH – Northside Tavern 

05/22 – Chicago, IL – The Hideout 

05/23 – Milwaukee, WI – Cactus Club 

05/24 – Windsor, ON – Phog Lounge 

05/25 – London, ON – Palasad Social Bowl