The Ancient Unknown Tackle Injustice On Triumphant New Single 'Separated'

By Kevin Malton, Editor

There is a distinct brand of fury that cannot be manufactured, and the London collective The Ancient Unknown seem to have captured a lightning bottle of it on their latest single, "Separated". Recorded at Steel City Studios in Sheffield, this track arrives with a heavy emotional burden. The song was written after reading about the brutal, cold bureaucracy of Home Office immigration rules breaking a real family apart. 

Saying that, the band avoids the trap of becoming a preachy protest act. Instead, they have created a huge, cinematic alt-rock song that feels like a contemporary nod to grunge-era angst. The track kicks off unexpectedly with muted guitar riffs and an emotionally heavy bassline. The guitars here in particular help create an unravelling tension before the drums slam the door shut, driving the track into a full-throttle groove.

The standout part of 'Separated' is the vocal. This a smooth yet heavy delivery that carries the story without venturing into melodramatic territory. There is a magnificent use of dynamics when the song introduces a fading interlude before launching into an explosive outro driven by frantic, absolutely killer guitar work.

Ultimately, "Separated" is a triumphant, emotionally exhausting rock anthem that proves political music can still make you want to move. Everything here is spot on - the vocal, the music, and the production, which was handled by Cal Benson. There's an almost intelligent subtlety to the track, which makes it that little bit more poignant. 

This is a powerful anthem that speaks directly to anyone who hates injustice. The Ancient Unknown have increased their catalogue with this, their most important single release yet, and makes a great entry point for anyone new to the band's music. With a debut album recorded and a host of live shows under their belts, the future looks bright for the band. 

It's refreshing to hear music that has something to say and done so with brilliance. Stream 'Separated' below and watch out for their debut album in due course.