What do you get when you mix pure raw emotions with a strong melody and a train of industrial, electronic beats that won’t quit? Assemblage 23’s new album Null, for one. Formed in 1988 and making an international impact since 1999’s Contempt, this is Tom Shear and Assemblage 23’s tenth album. The first since 2020’s Mourn, this is just as powerfully heartfelt as Assemblage 23 has ever been.
Out on November 7, 2025, through Metropolis Records, Null has ten tracks worthy of any electronic dance party DJ’s spin cycle. Looking at the musical project more closely, one of the most standout characteristics of Assemblage 23 is the use of one-word simplicities, found in the titles and dialogue, which express a fluctuating, deep emotional state that some can only convey through a novel.
First off, the Album title Null, which is basically a discredit to oneself or a sign that someone is losing interest in someone or something to the point that it becomes completely invalid. This album is in top form for what is expected from Assemblage 23, telling a complete story that can exude the same emotional presence for many while still resonating with each individual’s situation.
Track one, “Believe,” is a fluctuating emotional journey of hope, as the lyrics “flowers grow from dirt” and “strength grows out of hurt” deeply resonate with the listener. Then the electronic Synthpop tune “Lunatics” shifts to a darker, grittier tone. Following this is a definite favorite track, called “Gone.” For anyone who has ever felt alone or abandoned at even the smallest level, this song sums it all up in what seems such simple terms. Assemblage 23, however, is very thoughtful in the approach it takes to musically soothe the listener’s mind and heart into a warm cocoon or womb-like state. This album seems to acknowledge Assemblage 23’s roots with their aforementioned 1999 debut, Contempt.
Overall, Null speaks for itself as a unique compilation, and tracks like “Fuel,” “Normal,” and “Overthrow” enhance this experience with their individually thought-out visions. Tying it all to a grand conclusion is the last tune, “Waited,” which, ironically, is worth the wait.
Fans have waited almost six years for this new album, and it really does take them on an emotionally guided adventure through the highs and lows of being human, all with a robotic zeal apparent through the keyboards. Assemblage 23 has created many great albums over the years, and Null breathes the now of where music has driven us, combining the human with the robot in an almost equal play. So, wait no more, because Cryptic Rock gives Null 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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