NEWS RELEASE
Montreal, QC – June 2, 2026
THE MOURNING Unveils New Chapter w/ Dual‑Vocal Lineup and New Video “If I Die I Die”
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L-R – Alex Nasla, Nanda Hayek, Jason Berlin, Jason Ashcraft, Alon Mei-Tal, Johnny Ray, Francesco Pinter
Photo credit: Alex Nasla
Progressive metal band The Mourning returns with “If I Die I Die,” a powerful new single and cinematic music video that launches the next chapter of the band’s evolution, one defined by heavier sonics, deeper emotional intensity, and the introduction of new co‑vocalist Nanda Hayek.
Built on the band’s signature blend of cinematic songwriting, dual vocals, and progressive metal precision, the track confronts the fear of death, existential dread, and the psychological exhaustion of living under fear’s control. As the band states in the source document, the song’s core declaration, “I’m tired of all this fear, I’m done living in fear”, captures its central theme of surrendering fear and stepping into freedom.
Following the acclaim of their full‑length album “Hush”, praised as “a complex, engaging prog metal album” and “a very pleasant surprise” by metal media, the band sought a deliberate creative shift.
In October 2025, The Mourning quietly welcomed Brazilian vocalist Nanda Hayek into the lineup, known for her work with OverAlive and her background in psychotherapy and existential studies. Rather than announcing the change immediately, the band spent months crafting new material and building a complete visual identity around the single.
“If I Die I Die” is the first release to showcase the renewed dual‑vocal dynamic between Hayek and founding vocalist Johnny Ray, expanding the band’s emotional range and intensifying its modern metal edge.
Written by Francesco Pinter and Johnny Ray, and produced, mixed, and mastered by Alex Nasla, the single blends progressive metal intricacy with a darker, more direct heaviness. The band describes the track as “a psychological and spiritual battle,” moving from dread into cathartic release.
Lyrically, the song is framed as a dialogue between fear and faith, one voice clinging to control, the other fighting to break free. The refrain “If I die I die” is not nihilistic, but a moment of liberation: the refusal to let fear dictate one’s life.
The accompanying music video visualizes the song’s emotional arc through a symbolic narrative. A woman is hunted by a mysterious figure of death, terrified at first, then increasingly resolute. She rides her motorcycle toward the confrontation she has avoided, only to discover that death was never the true enemy. Fear was.
“By facing it directly, she conquers the thing that had been ruling her,” adds Johnny Ray.
The release also follows a breakthrough year for the band. In 2025, The Mourning made their live debut aboard 70000 Tons of Metal, where Kerrang! hailed them as an “outrageously talented new prog collective” and praised their 3 a.m. debut as “one of the sets of the weekend.” They later performed at Prog on the Ranch 2025, further solidifying their presence in the progressive metal scene.
Recommended for fans of Lacuna Coil, Amaranthe, Flyleaf, Disturbed, and Evanescence, watch and listen to the video for “If I Die I Die” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pbms_iiHgAM
Add to your Spotify playlist – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/themourning/if-i-die-i-die
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For more info:
https://www.themourningmusic.com
https://www.facebook.com/themourningmusic
https://www.instagram.com/themourningmusic
https://www.tiktok.com/@themourningmusic
About: Formed by vocalist and songwriter Johnny Ray, The Mourning was created to transform personal struggle, spiritual searching, and existential weight into emotionally immediate progressive metal. Their music blends soaring dual vocals, intricate musicianship, atmospheric tension, and deeply human lyrical themes. The band’s previous album, “Hush,” established them as a rising force in modern progressive metal, exploring anxiety, trauma, meaning, and inner transformation across its acclaimed tracklist.
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“The band blends mid to uptempo grooves while also introducing space and atmosphere in just the right places. Combining melody, technical/progressive musical elements, and harmony lead vocals, I feel this band caters to both musicians and non-musicians alike.” – Todd La Torre (Queensrÿche)
“The Mourning masterfully marries classic synth sounds, modern Haken-esque rhythms, and massive vocal hooks into a modern progressive package worthy of every fan’s undivided attention.” – Metal Injection
“In a world of clones, The Mourning is a true original and a breath of fresh air.” – Gear Gods
“With the release of “Hush”, the band continue to showcase their mastery to balance technical prowess with broader thematic appeal. The Mourning will most definitely make a big impact on the prog metal scene today and in the future.” – Metal Epidemic
“An impressive first album from a young band with room to grow. Fans of bands like Haken and Distrct 97 will enjoy this album. One to watch.” – Prog Radio
“Hush” a sensory treat that transcends the limits of perception.” – Roadie Metal
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