It has been three years since the release of VOLA’s defining album, Witness. It was a sonic assault that captured their signature blend of thoughtful labyrinthine narratives with crushing riffs and experimental sophistication. Heavy/quiet and dark/light were combined with elements of tech-metal, progressive alt-rock, electronica, and stadium-sized choruses.

After an intense touring schedule that saw them wind around Europe and, for the first time, the US, Canada, and South America. They now return buoyed with all of those experiences infused with their brand-new studio album, ‘Friend of a Phantom,’ which will be released on 1 November via Mascot Records.

Talking about their evolution, Janzi says. “We have had the time to internalise Witness and let its aftermath sink in, which has shaped how we approached Friend Of A Phantom. Our personal tastes have changed, the way we approach our instruments and songwriting has changed, our lives have changed, time has passed, and adventures have been had. Whatever piece of melancholy that Witness’ had, has just grown and become a central part of this new album. I feel that VOLA has grown and reached a new moment in its life, maturing.”