Crystal Castles has come out of nowhere with a massive new track titled “Frail.” The pulsing, beautifully dark track introduces a new lead singer to complete the resurrected duo.
The fact that the Canadian-based synth punks are performing again is big news. Former vocalist Alice Glass left the band in October of 2014 for personal reasons. She announced her departure publicly on multiple platforms. She made the following statement on Facebook:
My art and my self-expression in any form has always been an attempt towards sincerity, honesty, and empathy for others. For a multitude of reasons both professional and personal I no longer feel that this is possible within Crystal Castles. Although this is the end of the band, I hope my fans will embrace me as a solo artist in the same way they have embraced Crystal Castles.
While Ethan Kath performed solo after Glass’ departure, Crystal Castles was presumed dead. But as of yesterday, Crystal Castles dropped “Frail” on Soundcloud – their newest material since 2012. Along with the new post, Kath initially posted this on the band’s pager:
i wish my former vocalist the best of luck in her future endeavors. i think it can be empowering for her to be in charge of her own project. it should be rewarding for her considering she didn’t appear on Crystal Castles’ best known songs. (she’s not on Untrust Us. Not In Love, Vanished, Crimewave, Vietnam, Magic Spells, Knights, Air War, Leni, Lovers Who Uncover, Violent Youth, Reckless, Year of Silence, Intimate, 1991, Good Time, Violent Dreams etc.). people often gave her credit for my lyrics and that was fine, i didn’t care.
He then made the following changes to the statement:
i wish my former vocalist the best of luck in her future endeavors. i think it can be empowering for her to be in charge of her own project. <3 this is Edith on vocals.
“Frail” is an absolutely explosive piece that builds up from swirling bass and static into an electrified, danceable tune. Edith’s reverb-drenched vocals delicately glide on top of it all and bring a whole new element to the band’s sound. With all of this new energy, we can’t wait to see what else Crystal Castles has coming.