Swedish gothic doom masters DRACONIAN have unveiled “Anima,” the third and final single from their forthcoming studio album In Somnolent Ruin, arriving this Friday, May 8, via Napalm Records.
Accompanied by a haunting lyric video, “Anima” features guest vocals from Swedish artist Daniel Änghede and explores themes of duality, self-confrontation, and embracing one’s inner darkness. The track leans heavily into DRACONIAN’s gothic atmosphere while blending melancholic melodies with emotional depth and introspective lyricism.
Vocalist Anders Jacobsson explained the inspiration behind the song:
“‘Anima’ began as a poem I wrote in 2019—an exploration of the soul’s duality and the inner territories we tend to avoid, or fear to face.”
He continued:
“We invited Daniel Änghede to take on lead vocals, and his dreamy presence aligns seamlessly with the mood we envisioned. His voice intertwines beautifully with Lisa’s, creating a resonance that feels both intimate and expansive.”
In Somnolent Ruin marks the long-awaited return of vocalist Lisa Johansson and arrives six years after the critically acclaimed Under a Godless Veil. The new album also introduces several lineup developments, including guitarist Niklas Nord and drummer Daniel Johansson as official members, while longtime member Daniel Arvidsson makes his debut on bass.
The album promises a deeply immersive journey through sorrow, existentialism, and haunting atmosphere. Tracks like “Cold Heavens” and “The Face of God” showcase eruptive dynamics and emotional intensity, while closer “Lethe” draws inspiration from Greek mythology’s river of forgetfulness.
In Somnolent Ruin – Track Listing
- I Welcome Thy Arrow
- The Monochrome Blade
- Anima (Feat. Daniel Änghede)
- The Face of God
- I Gave You Wings
- Asteria Beneath the Tranquil Sea
- Cold Heavens
- Misanthrope River
- Lethe
DRACONIAN will support the album with performances across Latin America, Europe, Japan, and an extensive European tour in 2027, including appearances at Brutal Assault and Under the Doom.
Current lineup:
- Johan Ericson – Guitar, Vocals, Keys
- Anders Jacobsson – Vocals
- Lisa Johansson – Vocals
- Daniel Arvidsson – Bass
- Niklas Nord – Guitar
- Daniel Johansson – Drums