Metal Anarchy

Panopticon have released a new EP titled “The Poppies Bloom For No King.” The effort will include the title track and a re-recorded version of “Speaking.” Notably, a portion of the proceeds will benefit those impacted by ICE raids in the U.S.

Austin Lunn commented:

“First and foremost;

The imagery, artwork and lyrical devices in this song are in NO WAY a call to violence, but are rather a call to compassion, an expression of frustration at the political/social climate and increasing authoritarianism we are experiencing .The art is a photo collage and digital edit, printed in color separations and layered with vellum using sunlight on a window as a light box. It is a tribute to Gee Vaucher’s piece, “Flying high”.

The song was written in frustration while the USA engaged in mass deportation of immigrants, as well as dropping massive bombs over a distant nation. It was recorded months ago as part of the sessions of the new album and its art was made back at the beginning of August. The point of this EP for me is to express and process emotions in a constructive way while also raising money for those in need.

As such, 75% of money made from this EP will go to help families affected by ICE deportations with legal defense. This is an issue close to my heart as I have many immigrant and multicultural friends and Bek and I both have lived abroad at times in our lives.

I would like to, instead of explaining or expounding upon my intent any further (after the previous sentiment being expressed), direct the reader to the transcribed speech from “the poppies bloom for no king”.

This speech was written by a good friend of mine who, for these purposes, is called Bamse.
Bamse is a Persian American and US citizen, who was so kind and brave in this harrowing time to tell his immigration story as well as how the current administration and political climate has affected his life
-A”