Italian post-groove metal band NOUMENIA have released a new music video and single, “Shards,” exploring depression, emotional vulnerability and the struggle to overcome psychological distress. The release combines aggressive metal instrumentation with introspective songwriting, continuing the band’s artistic direction following its 2025 debut album, Echoes.
Available worldwide through Eclipse Records, “Shards” marks another step in the Northern Italian group’s development, combining heavy rhythmic arrangements with themes of mental health, personal reflection and emotional resilience.
NOUMENIA Unveil Dark and Atmospheric ‘Shards’ Music Video
Directed by Steve Saints, the music video for “Shards” adopts a stripped-back visual approach designed to reflect the song’s psychological themes.
Filmed at White Studios in Milan, Italy, the production uses enclosed concrete surroundings to create a claustrophobic atmosphere. Rather than relying on elaborate digital effects, the video emphasizes stark imagery and an intimate performance environment.
The visual concept reflects the emotional isolation and internal struggles addressed in the lyrics, presenting depression and vulnerability as experiences that deserve acknowledgment rather than concealment.
Through this approach, NOUMENIA seek to establish a connection between the song’s aggressive musical identity and its more personal message.
The official Shards music video on YouTube is available to watch worldwide.
Vocalist Vivian Black Discusses Mental Health and Emotional Expression
A central theme of “Shards” is the importance of discussing difficult emotions openly, particularly when individuals experience depression or feel disconnected from hope.
Vocalist Vivian Black said the track was developed to encourage emotional honesty rather than reinforce feelings of despair.
“These are sensitive but important topics, especially when you’re living with these feelings” explains vocalist Vivian Black. “I wanted to tap into a more introspective part of myself. We don’t want to destroy the hope of getting better, it’s actually quite the opposite. I believe it’s good to talk about the dark moments in our lives, especially when that hope seems to be missing. It’s important because if talking about it becomes something to be ashamed of, then we all get used to suppressing these emotions rather than expressing them and turning them into a source of strength to actually overcome them. Making music isn’t just about creating a catchy song or talking about nice things, isn’t all roses and sunshine. It’s also about bringing out what’s hard to express in everyday life.”
The statement highlights the band’s intention to use heavy music as a platform for addressing experiences that can be difficult to communicate in everyday conversations.
‘Shards’ Builds on the Sound of NOUMENIA’s Debut Album ‘Echoes’
Musically, “Shards” expands on the heavy foundations established by NOUMENIA’s debut full-length album, Echoes, released through Eclipse Records in 2025.
The single features distorted guitar arrangements, forceful percussion and groove-driven rhythms, complemented by vocal performances that move between aggressive intensity and atmospheric restraint.
Heavy Instrumentation Meets Introspective Songwriting
The contrast between powerful instrumentation and vulnerable lyrical themes is central to the band’s evolving sound.
Rather than presenting a straightforward message of optimism, “Shards” acknowledges the complexity of emotional struggles while emphasizing the potential strength that can emerge through expression.
This combination places NOUMENIA within the contemporary European metal scene, where bands increasingly incorporate personal and psychological subjects into traditionally aggressive musical styles.
About NOUMENIA and Their Musical Background
Formed in Northern Italy in late 2018, NOUMENIA initially developed as an instrumental project featuring bassist Matteo Campagnoli, guitarist Matteo Radaelli and drummer Samuele Zichi.
The addition of vocalist Vivian Nigro helped establish the group’s broader musical identity, introducing a vocal dimension that complemented its heavy instrumental foundations.
Since releasing Echoes in 2025, the band has continued developing its blend of post-groove metal, atmospheric arrangements and emotionally focused songwriting.
Where to Stream NOUMENIA’s New Single
“Shards” is now available on major digital music platforms worldwide through Eclipse Records.
Listeners can access the single through the official Shards streaming page.
With its latest release, NOUMENIA continue exploring the relationship between aggressive music and emotional expression, positioning “Shards” as both a continuation of their established sound and a reflection on the importance of confronting difficult personal experiences.
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