Off his upcoming album Empath, which boasts some big guests appearances, Devin Townsend has just launched the music video for the record’s first single, “Genesis.” It is a genius piece of work that features Townsend reacting to various parts of the track, which consists of several stylistic changes throughout. Empath is set for a March 29 release via InsideOut records.

“Genesis” is an apt first single release for Empath, which is an encapsulation of Townsend’s various artistic and musical influences throughout his career. The song is a unique combination of progressiveness and chaos, with incorporations of powerful drumming, a choir, and even an orchestra throughout the seven minutes.

The music video highlights Townsend’s creative flair, as it is a one-of-a-kind concept that sees Townsend listening to the song, while crazy visuals light up his background. Beginning in his production studio, the scenes of universes, trippy plants blooming, dinosaurs, discos, and even kittens on the beach that take over the backdrop, are true reflections of the musical trip that “Genesis” takes listeners through. If you watch closely, there is also a brief surprise appearance by Casualties of Cool’s Che Aimee Dorval in the video.

Empath marks a Townsend’s break from the Devin Townsend Project and is a piece of work that the Canadian musician has been working on for more than a year. His creative vision for the project is remarkable, as he previously announced a docuseries that would guide fans through his process of creating the album. As the name suggests, Empath is based on finding compassion “in a society where empathy is often viewed as a weakness”. Townsend is also set for an upcoming North American tour beginning in May.

Photo Credit: Raymond Flotat