Raleigh, NC modern progressive metal group, Valleys, have been gearing up to release their debut full length concept album, Experiment One: Asylum, which is set to hit stores on February 12th. On February 5th, just a week prior to their scheduled release, the band received a phone call from the local fire department that a vehicle matching the description of the car owned by one of their vocalists, 23-year-old Mikey Clement, had been found wrecked. It wasn't long after that they received the news that Mikey had passed in the accident.

As a group, Valleys made the decision that while they could put a halt on the entire album release, that is not what Mikey would have wanted them to do. He would have wanted the show to go on and for them to release the music that he and the band worked so hard on.

A launch of the track "Choices" had been planned for release today, and Valleys decided to remain steadfast and release the track, dedicated to the memory of Mikey Clement. The track is one of Mikey's favourite songs on the album - resonating, soaring and heartfelt - a perfect tribute. Listen to the track below:

“On February 12th, we will have our Experiment One: Asylum CD release party. This show will also be a big tribute show for Mikey. We need all of our fans and friends to come out and show love for not just Valleys but for Mikey. At this show, Valleys will be joined by many of our closest musical friends to part take in guest vocals on stage. We will continue to move forward, that's what Mikey would want. We will see you on February 12th.  

“And to Mikey, in death, you will see the light. Keep that flame alive up there buddy. Until we meet again!"

Valleys' new album Experiment One: Asylum tells the story of main character Asylum, who battles with multiple-personality disorder stemming from a dark personal tragedy. Each track on the album explores a different personality, weaving the listener through a mind of severe mental illness with a dynamic, heavy soundtrack. "Choices" depicts Asylum's struggle over what he could have done and the choices he could have made that would have impacted his situation differently.

Preview more of Asylum's story with the band's first single "Finding Solace", which depicts his struggle with overcoming multiple-personality disorder, and via the short film music video for "The Death of Me" (directed by Jaiden Frost of Jaiden Frost Presents), which transports the viewer back to the beginning of the story.

Experiment One: Asylum was recorded during the summer and fall of 2015 and is produced by Paul Barton of 415 Recording, with mixing and mastering duties handled by Todd Borland of Borland Studios.

In support of Experiment One: Asylum, Valleys will launch an upcoming U.S. spring tour - more details are set to be announced regarding the tour in the coming weeks.

“The Death Of Me” video:

“Finding Solace”:

(Photo - Will Page Photography)