In anticipation of the release of their seventh full-length studio album, VII: Sturm Und Drang, heavy rock band Lamb Of God has released a leading single, “512”. VII: Sturm Und Drang is slated for release on July 24, 2015 via Epic Records.
The title of the track is in reference to lead vocalist Randy Blythe’s prison cell number while doing time the Czech Republic’s Pankrác Prison. Back in 2013, he was acquitted of all charges after being accused of manslaughter for the death of a fan at a concert. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Blythe shuddered as he reflected back on his incarceration.
“You cannot have the same mentality as the normal guy living on the streets in prison. You undergo a radical mental and emotional shift when you go into prison,” Blythe told Rolling Stone writer Kory Grow.
As Blythe was battling depression that stemmed from his experience in prison, he crafted a single that emphasizes his despair and state of mind. The effect of the incarceration on Blythe’s psyche is especially apparent through the emotion that is emanated throughout the entire song.
Listen below.