Temples on Mars Announce New Album – The Last Ship
Temples on Mars Announce New Album – The Last Ship
(Photographer – Andy Ford)
London-based alternative progressive rock band Temples on Mars return with their new full-length album — a focused and cohesive collection that expands on the sound they’ve built across their previous releases. Following their self-titled debut and the darker, electronic-driven Parallels V.1, the band’s latest effort shows them at their most refined, exploring new textures while staying true to their core identity.
Recorded between studios in London and Los Angeles, the album features 10 tracks that balance heavy riffs, atmospheric electronics, and melodic hooks. “We’re always creating, so there wasn’t a single lightbulb moment,” says frontman James Donaldson. “This album just happens to be the 10 tracks that felt the most cohesive and represented a real step up from our last record.”
Several songs feature Josh Freese (Foo Fighters, A Perfect Circle, Nine Inch Nails) on drums, adding further depth to the record’s sound. Lyrically, the album explores themes of awareness, mortality, and reflection. “Be aware of what’s going on around you — at all levels,” the band notes. “Open your eyes, ask questions, appreciate the moment, and live.”
Tracks like “Sleepwalking into Extinction” and “Daydreamer” have already found success, both breaking into the Radioscope Top 40 Rock Charts in Donaldson’s native New Zealand, while third single “Smile” brings a darker edge to the album’s introspective tone.
Temples on Mars took a deliberate approach to shaping the album’s sound, tuning lower and leaning further into their electronic influences. “Each track was individually inspired,” the band explains. “We even left a few songs off that felt more suited to the next direction we’re heading.”
Production was handled by Darren Carikas and James Donaldson, with drums recorded in both London and Los Angeles. Paul Matthews co-produced and engineered the vocals, and Ted Jensen (Sterling Sound, Nashville) mastered the album.
Having performed at Download UK, Radar Festival, Euroblast, Planet Rock Winter’s End, and completed a headline tour of South Africa, Temples on Mars continue to grow their global following. This release captures a band in motion — heavier, sharper, and more purposeful than ever.
