Founded in 1997, Eclipse Records has built a reputation as a boutique powerhouse in the world of hard rock and heavy metal. With a legacy that includes launching acts like Mushroomhead, Bobaflex, and A Breach of Silence, the label has long been known for discovering genre-pushing talent and giving artists the space to create without compromise.
Now, Eclipse is turning its spotlight toward Lisbon, Portugal, with the signing of Stereophobia, an alternative metal trio known for their visceral sound and sharp-edged songwriting. The band’s new full-length album, Choke On This, will be released worldwide on August 29 and promises to be anything but subtle.
The announcement from Eclipse Records describes the album with signature flair: “Choke On This is more than a gut punch. It is a blast in the face that widens your eyes, buzzsaws your back, and rocks you right to the marrow.” Produced by Miguel Camilo (M’vula, The Bateleurs) at MC Sound Studios, the record showcases a darker and more complex side of the band’s evolving sound.
Lead vocalist and guitarist Mike Rocha shared his excitement about the partnership: “Eclipse Records sparked our interest since we knew that Mushroomhead (a band which I have followed and admired for a long time) signed with them many years ago. I’ve always aspired to achieve great goals while always reaching higher… we are like no other band in the world, so we needed a label like no other as Eclipse Records is.”
Drummer Dany Atunes echoed the sentiment: “With this new record being a more dark and complex evolution of our sound, it’s beyond our wildest expectations to reach such a milestone and have Eclipse to back us up on this new journey. We can’t wait to share it with everyone.” Bassist Bruno Santos added, “I think signing with Eclipse Records is one of the most positive things that has happened to the band so far, and for the release of our new album, Eclipse Records is the perfect label for us.”
Choke On This explores themes of social decay, misinformation, and emotional unrest in a hyperconnected world. A statement from the label describes it as “about infection—a poisoned society we feed on like snakes in the crease, ingesting the swill spit out of our television sets, the lies bleeding through the pores of our social media, and the culture wars pitting us against each other.”
Musically, the album is both punishing and intricate. Expect a diverse palette of aggressive guitar tones, dynamic drumming (with particular emphasis on tom work), powerful basslines, and emotionally charged vocals. The cover art, created by Tatiana Ferreira, is said to visually reflect the album’s raw, unfiltered energy.
Stereophobia’s Choke On This arrives August 29 via Eclipse Records. It's loud, it’s relentless, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most compelling alt-metal releases of the year.
