Sri Lankan heavy metal pioneers Stigmata’s third track – titled “Archetype” – from their upcoming, highly-anticipated fifth studio album has received rave reviews from their fans.
Archetype was officially unveiled by the band during the second gig of their 25th Anniversary year-long celebration – “Awaken the Storm” – held at Main Sports Bar and Restaurant, Havelock City Mall. The track, inspired by the work of Carl Jung and his theories of the shadow self, plunged deep into the human psyche – confronting darkness with introspective power and sonic grit.
The track has impressed the Stigmata fanbase with many calling it ” fascinating”, “refreshing”, “exhilarating” and “powerful”. Die-hard Stigmata fans have observed that the start of the 7-minute track has the signature Stigmata touch, with its ethnic drum that breaks into something Stigmata is well known for – the heavy guitar riffs, unmistakable groove, complex time signatures, and catchy vocal melodies. Fans have also applauded the recording mixing work, calling it “immaculate”.
Sharing his thoughts about the track, Suresh de Silva, frontman, and lyricist stated, “Archetype is a crushing, soul-searing rock anthem that fuses technical ferocity with emotional depth. The track channels intense riffs, thunderous rhythms, and soaring melodies into a journey of self-realization, shattering illusions to reveal the raw essence of who we are beneath the masks. Both brutal and cathartic, the track is meant to feel like a ritual-an invocation of shadow and spirit – and will hopefully appease our loyal advocates, and intrigue new listeners in also!”
“Archetype” follows the band’s debut hit anthem “Trigger” from the new album. Trigger is a powerful anthem against bullying and harassment that has already made waves on platforms like TikTok, registering over 200,000 views and 25,000 likes – a first for a Lankan based Rock or Metal band.
Together, the two tracks paint a picture of a band fearlessly stepping into the next era of their evolution – unafraid to tackle deep, universal themes with raw honesty and musical mastery.
Stigmata is currently adding the finishing touches to its fifth studio album, its first in 10 years, having already tasted success with four outstanding albums ‘Hollow Dreams (2003)’, ‘Silent Chaos Serpentine (2006)’, ‘Psalms of Conscious Martyrdom (2010)’, and ‘The Ascetic Paradox (2015)’. The album is exclusively recorded at Pearl Bay Music Lounge and is mixed and mastered by Grammy nominated producer Jed Brewer, of Good Loud Media, USA.
The band’s Silver Jubilee festivities continue to deliver a host of electrifying experiences, including fresh music and music videos, brand new merchandise, and live performances at Colombo’s trendiest venues.
The band will also kickstart its international tours from November onwards.
The next mega event in Sri Lanka, and the last live concert as part of Stigmata’s trifecta of Silver Jubilee Shows is Monster’s Ball – a Halloween special on Friday 31 October at Main Sport’s Bar & Restaurant, Havelock City Mall.
