The fast-rising Texas five-piece I Promised The World have just shared “A Pure Expression,” the second single from their forthcoming, self-titled EP, which is due out on January 16th via Rise Records. The track arrives with an official music video and follows their initial single, “Bliss In 7 Languages.” “A Pure Expression” expands on the band’s ability to balance restraint with sheer intensity: it opens with a patient, atmospheric build before blowing up into a swelling mix of screamo, Midwest emo, and post-hardcore. The track, produced by Jon Markson and Adam Cichocki, leans into heavy texture and tension, allowing moments of space to sit right next to crushing distortion and emotionally charged vocal interplay between Caleb Molina and Hunter Wilson.
The band’s formation in 2023 is intrinsically linked to tragedy; vocalist/guitarist Caleb Molina started the group as an extension and expression of his grief following his father’s death due to COVID in 2020. Alongside drummer Mason Zschau, guitarist Mason Nowlin, and bassist Aidan Vickers, the band’s new self-titled EP exists both as a reflection of Molina’s loss and as a celebration of his father’s life. In their two short years of existence, I Promised The World has quickly built serious buzz, already seeing tour runs with bands like Deafheaven and Koyo. If you’re looking for a band that delivers raw, emotional power with a sonic blend that balances space and massive sound, their debut EP will be required listening.