Bay Area thrash metal legends Testament have confirmed the details for their fourteenth studio album, “Para Bellum“. Recording sessions for it took place with Juan Urteaga (Machine Head, Vio-lence) behind the boards. Jens Bogren, (Opeth, Amon Amarth) was hired to mix, while Eliran Kantor created the cover art.
A press release notes that the album, ‘stands as both a battle cry and an observation of humanity’s uneasy alliance with its own creations. As technology accelerates and disconnection grows, ‘Para Bellum‘ sees Testament reflecting the modern chaos through music that’s urgent, sharp, and unflinchingly human.’
A music video for the lead single “Infanticide A.I.” was shot with director Joey Durango (Aborted, Lorna Shore). Addressing the album — the band’s first since welcoming drummer Chris Dovas into their ranks — vocalist Chuck Billy commented:
“…’Para Bellum‘ consists of some fast, heavy and melodic tunes. Once again Peterson has found a way to keep the song writing fresh and modern sounding. It’s gonna be hard to choose what songs to play live cause to many to choose from.”
Guitarist Eric Peterson added:
“It’s been 5 years since our last record ‘Titans Of Creation‘ was released. Since then, we all waited to get back to it and we all did in a big way! Now our long over due new record ‘Para Bellum‘ is upon us and about to be released in October. We are super stoked and excited to release new blood and fury to you all! With our first single ‘Infanticide A.I.‘ we’re coming out swinging! But with new velocities of fury, while maintaining a balance that we all love and know from a Testament track, enjoy!”
“Para Bellum” track listing:
01 – “For The Love Of Pain”
02 – “Infanticide A.I.”
03 – “Shadow People”
04 – “Meant To Be”
05 – “High Noon”
06 – “Witch Hunt”
07 – “Nature Of The Beast”
08 – “Room 117”
09 – “Havana Syndrome”
10 – “Para Bellum”
An October 10th release date has been set by Nuclear Blast. Pre-orders can be obtained via testament.bfan.link/para-bellum.
