Pile – Born at Night

Boston-based band Pile has announced their forthcoming album “Sunshine and Balance Beams,” set for release on August 15th via Sooper Records, alongside their new single “Born at Night.”

Working with engineer Miranda Serra (known for collaborations with Kal Marks and Kira McSpice), mixer Seth Manchester (who’s worked with Model/Actriz and Deafheaven), and mastering engineer Matt Colton (whose credits include James Blake and Depeche Mode), the band has crafted a sound that balances intensity with nuance.

“Born at Night” emerges as a philosophical exploration of existential nihilism, wrestling with the idea that perhaps there is no ultimate enlightenment or end to human suffering. Frontman Rick Maguire’s distinctive vocal delivery intensifies throughout the track, eventually belting out the titular refrain “I was born at night” as the instrumentation peaks. This sonic journey from resignation to meditative nihilism mirrors perfectly the song’s thematic concerns.

Speaking about the new album, Maguire reflects on the complex relationship between artistic fulfilment and material expectations: “The fulfilment I receive from pursuing art has been a guiding force for me. But it can be damaging when that pursuit subscribes to material expectations of where you might be able to go, and then doesn’t square with the reality that follows.”

The band will embark on an extensive North American tour to support the album, joined by new labelmate and Sooper Records co-founder NNAMDÏ.