Poems in the Dark

After four years of meticulous crafting, West of House unleashed their most ambitious and evocative work to date on June 6th, 2025: Poems in the Dark. This album is not merely a collection of songs; it’s a profound journey into the human psyche, a testament to the band’s relentless pursuit of sonic and lyrical mastery that truly raises the bar for their acclaimed sound. Known for their haunting melodies, driving rhythms, and introspective storytelling, West of House has pushed their boundaries further than ever before, creating expansive soundscapes that critics have previously lauded as “sonically broader, more musically exploratory” and built on “extremely insightful songs and impeccable musicianship.”

At its heart, Poems in the Dark explores a universal truth: “Even in the shadows, a light remains. We seek not to erase the pain, but to understand its song.” This album is dedicated to telling those stories found in the deepest corners of despair, where all seems lost, yet hope stubbornly flickers. It’s an invitation to confront the darkness, not to succumb, but to find understanding and resilience within its depths.

Listeners received a tantalizing preview of this monumental work through four powerful singles:

“Iconoclast (Psalm of the Heretic)” (Released April 25th, 2025): A fiery anthem of defiance, this track vehemently rejects perceived falsehoods and societal norms, serving as a powerful call to individual truth and rebellion.

“Harlequin Valet” (Released May 9th, 2025): A dark and profound duet exploring the seductive allure of a malevolent entity and the weary resignation within a fated, deceptive struggle.

“Seen Through the Back Window” (Released May 23rd, 2025): A haunting and atmospheric track that delves into themes of unrequited longing and unspoken emotional connection, highlighting the fragility of a cherished, hidden bond.

“End Groove” (Released May 30th, 2025): An in-your-face rock song that serves as a nuanced meditation on cycles and repetition, embracing the bittersweet beauty found in lingering connections and the familiar imperfections of life’s ongoing patterns.

Poems in the Dark is the culmination of West of House’s artistic evolution, a finely crafted woven tapestry of sound and story that promises to resonate long after the final note fades. Prepare to immerse yourself in an album that dares to find beauty and understanding where you least expect it.

Poems in the Dark Tracklist:

Liner Notes:

Released June 6, 2025

Vocals / Guitars / Programming: Erick Bieger
Guitars / Keys: Kevin Huynh
Guitars: Darren Varieur
Bass: Lance Bletscher
Drums: Tommy Maras

Additional Guitars & Backing Vocals: Bobby Phillipps

Contributing Musicians:

“Deus Ex Machina”
Didgeridoo: Iyan Sunda

“Harlequin Valet”
Vocals: Cassy Rum

“Iconoclast (Psalm of the Heretic”
Saxophone: Roy Bletscher

“Seen Through the Back Window”
Violin & Viola: Jessica Townsend
Cello: Tom McCluskey

“Reflection”
Uilleann Pipes & Irish Tin Whistle: Antonio R. Bustabad

“End Groove”
West of House Alumni Choir:
Erick Bieger
Kevin Huynh
Darren Varieur
Lance Bletscher
Tommy Maras
Steve Stafford
Bobby Phillipps
Dave Roberts

Produced by Erick Bieger
Recorded by West of House
Mixing & Mastering by Bobby Phillipps