Major shift coming for MISS MAY I, and it hinges on a changing lineup and a willingness to experiment. The band’s frontman Levi Benton promises a standout, “really awesome” follow-up to Curse Of Existence, even as the project evolves with a new guitarist and different creative processes. This is more than just a fresh record; it’s a deliberate reimagining that could redefine the band’s sound while staying true to their core metalcore roots.
What’s changing in the music
- The two-year gestation period for the new album is driven by busy schedules and the arrival of Elisha Mullins, who joined as a guitarist after the departure of B.J. Stead and Justin Aufdemkampe in 2024. Benton notes Mullins’ influence as a producer-turned-musician, bringing a new perspective to the writing room. This has led to a shift toward expansive soundscapes and experimental textures, a departure from the band’s traditional, tighter arrangement. This shift is highlighted by their use of atmospheric layers and diverse sonic landscapes, a new frontier for MISS MAY I.
- The four-piece lineup (instead of five) is directly shaping the arrangements, with a focus on allowing space for innovative sounds rather than sticking to a conventional guitar-driven template. The single “Pray For Silence” is described as the ballad of the album, signaling that the project embraces a broader emotional palette.
Creative approach and timeline
- Rather than rushing to pre-orders and multi-video campaigns, the band plans to roll out releases with careful attention to each track, given the time invested in writing and production. The team has already secured artwork and other assets, indicating a more patient, song-centric rollout.
- The album is framed as a “little experiment,” with a commitment to making every song feel special. This method could produce a more varied listening experience, potentially appealing to both longtime fans and new listeners.
Behind-the-scenes and contributors
- Nick Sampson has been a consistent influence in the studio since the band’s second album, serving as a practical judge to maintain cohesion across the evolving catalog. His ongoing role helps bridge the old and new MISS MAY I identities, especially as the band navigates a four-piece dynamic.
- The group’s relationship with Solid State Records has become more relaxed and flexible, emphasizing quality and creative freedom over strict deadlines. Levi Benton describes the partnership as surreal and supportive, contrasting with earlier pressurized recording cycles and underscoring a pivot toward a more deliberate creative process.
Context and expectations
- The recent release “Pray For Silence” is positioned as a lighter moment within the album’s broader arc, signaling that future tracks may push further into experimental territory while maintaining the band’s core intensity. This track serves as a hint of the dynamic range fans can expect from the full project.
- Fans and observers should watch for a blend of classic MISS MAY I energy with newly explored soundscapes and production approaches. The changes could reaffirm the band’s relevance in the metalcore scene while inviting fresh interpretations of their music.
Controversial angle and conversation starter
- Some listeners may question whether a lineup shift and new production direction risks diluting the band’s recognizable identity. Is experimentation necessary for longevity in a genre that rewards consistency, or can it rejuvenate a legacy without sacrificing what made the band unique? Share your thoughts in the comments: do you welcome the risk of a bolder, more expansive MISS MAY I, or do you prefer the classic, tightly woven formula?
