Elements collide, split, multiply, and generate energy. Similarly, the trio of vocalist and bassist Ben Flanagan, guitarist Mark Engles, and drummer Chris Robyn convene, congregate, and commune to power up Black Map. Their union teems with emotion and electricity—which the musicians in turn harness to craft hypnotically heavy anthems underscored by unpredictable musicality and undeniable hooks.The guys have been on the same page since day one. The players had respectively come up in celebrated alternative bands with Mark in Dredg, Chris in Far, and Ben in The Trophy Fire. However, they unlocked a distinct sound upon forming Black Map during 2014. They captivated with …And We Explode [2014], In Droves [2017], and Melodoria [2022]. PROG hailed In Droves as “a punchy and thrilling collection of songs,” while Westworld applauded Melodoria for its “catchy tunes with enough pop sensibility for radio play but with the technical prowess one would expect from a post-hardcore band.” Along the way, the Northern California group tallied tens of millions of streams fueled by favorites such as “Run Rabbit Run,” “Gold,” and “No Color,” among others. At the top of 2024, they retreated to Southern California to record Hex with Saosin guitarist Beau Burchell behind the board as producer.The album captures the band’s signature style, with Mark’s distinct guitar work ever-present and a renewed focus on immediacy and raw energy. For Ben, 'Hex' represents the profound impact of music, offering solace and connection. Drummer Chris Robyn adds that the album carries an unstoppable momentum, charging forward with force and intention. Rooted in themes of personal struggle, authenticity, and resilience, 'Hex' stands as BLACK MAP’s most powerful and urgent release yet.
