Sleep Announce New Album Hemispheres, Unveil Single “The Morrisist”: Stream

After an eight-year hiatus from releasing full-length records, the influential stoner doom metal band Sleep is set to reemerge with their new album, Hemispheres. Scheduled for digital release on September 3rd and physical formats on October 30th, the latest project marks a significant chapter in the band’s evolving lineup and sound.

Hemispheres arrives as Sleep’s follow-up to their 2018 album The Sciences, continuing their legacy within the genre while introducing fresh creative dynamics. Notably, this album is the first without founding guitarist Matt Pike, a key figure also known for his work with High on Fire. The current lineup features original vocalist and bassist Al Cisneros, joined by guitarist Bubba Dupree, formerly of Void, and drummer Dale Crover, renowned for his tenure with the Melvins.

The recording of Hemispheres took place at the Melvins’ studio, with production handled by longtime collaborator Toshi Kasai, ensuring continuity in the band’s distinctive sonic footprint. This collaboration underscores the strong ties Sleep maintains within the heavy music community and their commitment to crafting an authentic sound.

Ahead of the album release, Sleep has shared the single “The Morrisist,” which follows the earlier drop of “Have Spacesuit Will Travel.” Both tracks are part of a concise five-song lineup, indicating a tightly curated listening experience. Lyrically, “The Morrisist” pays homage to the essence of heavy metal riffs, referencing Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath—a nod to one of the genre’s foundational influences.

In conjunction with the album, Sleep is expanding their artistic expression through a companion comic book titled Sleep Comic Book, set to be published by Third Man Books. The first issue will become available on September 22nd, offering fans additional narrative depth and visual storytelling linked to the album’s themes.

The band is also embarking on a comprehensive North American tour to support Hemispheres, commencing September 8th in San Diego, California. The tour will cover numerous cities, concluding with a show in Washington, D.C. on November 17th. This extensive itinerary includes multiple stops in major markets such as Phoenix, Denver, Seattle, San Francisco, Chicago, and Boston, providing ample opportunity for fans to experience Sleep’s renewed live energy.

Sleep’s enduring influence on stoner and doom metal continues to resonate, and the release of Hemispheres with a refreshed lineup signals both a respect for their roots and an openness to new creative directions. The band’s partnership with Jack White’s Third Man Records further situates them within a diverse and forward-thinking musical community.

With Hemispheres, Sleep not only delivers a much-anticipated return but also reinforces their status as pioneers willing to evolve while honoring the heavy traditions that shaped their sound. Fans and newcomers alike can anticipate a project that balances reverence for the genre’s heritage with contemporary artistic exploration.