Czech death metal veterans PANDEMIA have released “Nightmare Paradox,” the second single from their highly anticipated album “Darkened Devotion,” due out in May 2025 via Hammerheart Records.

Following the well-received first single “A Sea To Breathe In,” this new track explores the philosophical concept of finding strength through confronting one’s darkest thoughts. “Nightmare Paradox” specifically deals with insomnia and the strange liminal state between wakefulness and dreaming, where nightmares become tools for developing self-knowledge and resilience rather than sources of fear.

“This song shows the variety of our songwriting, from blast speeds to more groovy style of playing,” explains guitarist Alex. “It was one of the songs written early on and the riffs came out of nowhere during a moment of disturbed sleep at night. There is a strange timing in the opening riff, which was a challenge to lay down properly. It’s one of the parts on the album that sounds straightforward but has some weird measures underneath. Overall, it comes out as one of the hardest-hitting songs on the album, and it is a great tune of which we are super proud!”

The lyrics were written by vocalist Jirka, who poured his own experiences with nighttime battles into the track, adding an authentic layer of personal struggle to the song’s philosophical themes.

Recorded with the same uncompromising production values as the rest of “Darkened Devotion,” the single showcases PANDEMIA’s signature blend of technical precision and raw aggression. The track moves between furious, blasting sections and more contemplative passages that mirror the protagonist’s journey through nocturnal struggles toward enlightenment.

“Darkened Devotion” will be released worldwide in May 2025 on CD, vinyl, and digital formats through Hammerheart Records.

After a decade-long wait, Pandemia is working on a new album and the band is already halfway through the process. The recordings took place in several Czech recording studios (The Barn, Absroth), and the final mixing and mastering takes place during this summer at the Demigod Studios in Portugal.

This will be the band’s first conceptual album, embracing their signature deep and dark sound, combining the best of what they have ever produced! It will feature nine brand new songs that will undoubtedly keep you wide awake at night.More information about the album will be available later this summer. 

Btw, there is a lot the band is currently working on, including preparations for their 30th anniversary celebrations next year!

Horns up!