Leeds-based quartet Artio have announced a companion EP to their sophomore LP Soul Rot, which released in January of this year. Titled Soul Rot Forever, the four-track EP will feature re-imagined versions of songs from the album, the first of which has been unveiled to be an orchestral version of "Algae Bloom."
Featuring backing vocals from members of fellow Loiners in bands such as Breathing Below, Daisy Graves, Helle, IO, Lavender Gray, Ocean Floor, and Omoia and a collection of classical musicians, this take on the song is more evocative, creating a backdrop for Rae Brazill's vocals to take center stage. The album version of the track is already powerful, but this percussionless version takes things that little bit further.
Check out the live session video, filmed back in February 2026 at Leeds Beckett University, below:
Soul Rot Forever will release on October 14th. In addition to digital formats, the EP will be available on CD and cassette, with pre-orders available here.
Artio have also announced Seventh Sun Festival, their own music festival, set for Brudenell Social Club in their native Leeds on November 14th. Joining them on the bill are Omoia, Helle, Daisy Graves, IO, Breathing Below, and Twin Size. Tickets are available here.
