With just a day to go until he releases his new album 4, Jonathan Bates (aka Big Black Delta) is delivering one last teaser with his beautiful, sweeping new song "Vessel."
The track is officially out tomorrow alongside the full record, but it's premiering today on Variance with an accompanying video, directed by Warren Kommers. The new song and the album itself follows a difficult journey for the longtime Mellowdrone frontman and M83 collaborator, who has struggled with his mental health and with alcoholism since the passing of his father.
Bates has previously said this new record "is one of service," noting that he understands the current global situation might discourage some from diving into new music. But he also believes there are many who might find refuge in it.
"I too am trying to figure out how best to move forward as a human being, and how to be of service to my fellow man," he said. "To honor the work that needs to be done and acknowledge the work that hasn’t. I love you and the only thing I want for you and myself is to be treated fairly. I hope to see you on the other side."
Big Black Delta's 4 is out tomorrow (July 10), and is available here for pre-order.