The Awakening - Haunting
Now US-based, The Awakening was formed in Johannesburg, South Africa in the late ’90s as the creative expression of vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Ashton Nyte, who was anointed as "Johannesburg's Bowie" for his widely varying musical styles and theatrical performances. Having morphed over the years, The Awakening's sound incorporates numerous genres, including gothic rock, darkwave, post-punk, electronic rock, folk noir, new wave and more.
'The Awakening' follows Nyte's second book and eighth solo album 'Autumn's Children', which was selected as one of American Songwriter's Top 17 Albums of 2023. This new album is a celebration of the band's roots and influences. The last two Awakening albums were departures, with 'This Alchemy' (2021) exploring the electronic side of his musical personality, and 'The Passage Remains' (2022) including his previously-unreleased heavier material.
Ashton Nyte is a core contributor to LA-based supergroup Beauty In Chaos, involved with every album released to date, including the latest 'Dancing With Angels' and 'Signs in the Heavens Reality Upside Down'. Nyte has collaborated with members of The Cure, The Mission, Tricky, Peter Murphy's band and All About Eve.
Having toured extensively and headlined music festivals in the USA, Europe, and South Africa to upwards of 30,000 people, Nyte has also written and performed in theatrical productions and hosted philanthropic events, including his “Rock Against Rape” concert series. He has also presented a lecture series at US universities focusing on tolerance and acceptance. Nyte is also an author and actor.
With a catalogue of over 300 songs, Ashton Nyte and The Awakening have enjoyed airplay and chart success worldwide, with songs featured in popular TV shows like 'Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin' and 'The Purge'. Nyte has contributed to several scores, working with composer Ethan Gold for 'Don't Let Go' (premiering at the Sundance Film Festival) and 'Pale Horse', directed by the late Pearry Teo.
'The Awakening' album is out now on vinyl, CD, digitally and limited-edition formats. It can be found on Spotify and other digital platforms, and can be ordered directly from the artist. Tour dates will be announced soon with The Awakening set to tour extensively in the EU, USA, Mexico and the UK.