GAITHERSBURG, Md. - Marylandian -- Rock band Black Halo has released a powerful ballad about the trauma of sexual assault. "In Death I Linger On" captures the feeling of some survivors that something inside them has perished. And that can lead to coping strategies that result in physical death. While not written specifically to be a #MeToo anthem, the song hits hard at the anguish some experience.

The piercing lyrics (https://bit.ly/UtopiaAlbumLyrics) may add to the debate about the need for trigger warnings, though songs seldom have them.

"It's a tough balance," says Black Halo guitarist and songwriter Randy Ellefson. "Some people want or need them, but others dislike them. There's also debate that they're ineffective and the warning itself can trigger people. That's why I opted not to include one after the song title. The guidance for creators isn't conclusive."

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While guest singer Bec Hollcraft performs the song, the lyrics are not gender specific. A woman was chosen because the song is part of the broader concept album, Utopia, about a man and woman struggling with their respective issues. Her inability to cope with her trauma leads to her fate and hastens the man's downward spiral. That both struggle in silence despite a world that offers so many communication opportunities and social connectivity is the album's theme.

"In Death I Linger On" also features guest performances by drummer Dirk Verbeuren. The song releases on December 11, 2025 along with the lyric video on YouTube. Utopia will drop in 2026. Visit https://linktr.ee/blackhalometal for access to these and Black Halo's social media, merch, and website hub.