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EXCLUSIVE: Thousand Below Drop “Save Me” and Share Their Love for Zoids
Post-hardcore band Thousand Below has added to the excitement surrounding their upcoming album with the release of their latest single, “Save Me (feat. Lø Spirit)”. The new track is taken from their forthcoming record, Buried in Jade, scheduled for release on August 8, 2025. “Save Me” represents a refined evolution of the group’s sound, blending emotionally charged lyrics with a pulsing, anthemic energy. Featuring a standout guest appearance by alternative artist Lø Spirit, the single marks another powerful chapter for Thousand Below ahead of their next touring cycle and wider album rollout.
“Save Me”: A Creative Collaboration with Lø Spirit
“Save Me” serves as a testament to Thousand Below’s growth as a band, and the synergy between the members and their featured artist, Lø Spirit, whose collaborative involvement came about organically. According to lead vocalist James DeBerg, Lø Spirit expressed interest in the track during a session, ultimately joining the project to craft the final version. This collaborative spirit led to significant improvements in the song’s bridge, contributing to its polished sound and emotional depth.
Known for his own massive following—particularly on platforms like TikTok—Lø Spirit brought both creative flair and broader reach to the single. He’s also recognized for his work on music for popular video games including League of Legends and Valorant. For Thousand Below, his involvement elevated the song to new heights.
Buried in Jade: A Long-Awaited Album
The band has confirmed that Buried in Jade has been completed for over a year, highlighting the long lead time that artists face in the album release cycle. “We’ve been sitting on it for way too long,” said DeBerg, who explained that the delay was primarily due to production timelines. Guitarist Josh Thomas echoed that sentiment, noting that some of the finalized recording files date back more than twelve months.
This album also marks a return to collaborative in-studio work after the band’s previous release, which had been crafted remotely during the pandemic. The sessions for Buried in Jade offered the musicians a chance to reconnect creatively in the same physical space, working with producer Austin Coupe, who played a pivotal role in shaping the record. Coupe’s deep understanding of the band’s vision and sound allowed him to guide them through a focused and fulfilling production process.
Behind the Music: Anime as Creative Inspiration
Throughout their career, the members of Thousand Below have openly expressed their love for anime, with several titles serving as key cultural and creative influences. DeBerg and Thomas cite long-running series like Zoids, One Piece, Inuyasha, and Dragon Ball Z as formative touchstones. In particular, Zoids left a lasting impact on both musicians, influencing not just their personal tastes, but also inspiring their aesthetic sensibilities and creative drive.
“I wanted to be the white Liger when I was a kid,” DeBerg joked, referencing the central figure of Zoids: Chaotic Century. The show’s influence extended beyond storytelling to lifestyle choices—even sparking a love for ramen, which often appeared in the anime’s campfire scenes.
Anime continues to play a role in Thousand Below’s creative workflow. The band often composes music with anime fight scenes playing in the background. These sequences offer fast-paced, suspenseful inspiration for riffs and rhythms, helping to set an energetic tone in the songwriting process. Thomas noted that soundtracks from series like Yu Yu Hakusho and VINLAND SAGA were especially influential for their dynamic composition and emotional resonance.
Anime and Heavy Music: A Shared Cultural Space
Thousand Below’s story reflects a growing convergence between anime and alternative music – two once-niche subcultures that have recently gained significant mainstream visibility. The band members observe that anime is no longer confined to late-night cable or niche circles; instead, it has become a shared touchstone among fans of diverse media.
“It was nerdy before to watch it,” said Thomas. “But I’m glad that now everyone’s watching it too.” DeBerg elaborated that both anime and heavy music represent “alternative” forms of entertainment that appeal to those who seek emotionally intense and often introspective experiences.
Official Album Launch and Availability
Buried in Jade is officially scheduled for global release on August 8, 2025 via Rise Records. It will be available on all major streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and physical formats for collectors and long-time fans. The lead single “Save Me (feat. Lø Spirit)” is currently available for streaming and pre-save. Fans can expect a full tracklist announcement and album trailer in the coming weeks through Thousand Below’s official channels.
The band will also embark on a headlining tour shortly after the album’s launch, with dates to be announced through their label and official website. As they prepare to return to the road, the release of “Save Me” marks a defining moment and promises a bold new chapter for the band’s evolving legacy.
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