Couture metal band ANA channels The Matrix chic in their stunning new single/video ‘Shadow of Life’

The Melbourne heavy music scene has long been a breeding ground for sonic innovation, but the arrival of ANA marks a sophisticated shift toward what the quintet describes as “couture metal”. This aesthetic evolution prioritizes high-fashion theatricality alongside the punishing precision of symphonic metal. Today, the band further cements this visual identity with the release of their vibrant new music video for “Shadow of Life,” a standout track from their forthcoming full-length album, Motivated by Death. Directed by the masterful Peter Coulson and filmed at Koukei Studio in Kilsyth South, the video serves as a brilliant collision of nineties nostalgia and modern production. Coulson describes the project as a remake of the nineties aesthetic, allowing the band’s natural charisma to take center stage. For vocalist Anna Khristenko, the visual direction was a deliberate choice to contrast the song’s heavy themes. While “Shadow of Life” serves as a philosophical reminder to live every day to its fullest, Khristenko wanted the video to remain “danceable and fun.” Drawing inspiration from the iconic leather coats and sunglasses of The Matrix, she opted for a costume that pays homage to her favorite actor, Keanu Reeves. This is the second single & music video taken from their upcoming full-length album Motivated By Death which will be released on May 29, 2026 via Eclipse Records. 

The video captures a band operating as a cohesive unit of “masked super-humans”. For bassist Cody Lamb, the shoot marked his second music video experience with the group, and he credits Coulson with creating a comfortable environment that allowed the band to pour their heart and soul into the performance. Keyboardist Mark Shi, who has previously occupied the director’s chair himself, expressed immense gratitude for being able to step into the action as Coulson’s grand vision came to life.

Guitarist Josh Mak also revealed a special treat for fans… The video features an eye-catching neon green Ormsby GTI Hype Guitar, a custom instrument created specifically for this video, and that a lucky fan will have the chance to win this exact piece of history! Read more about the giveaway contest via this location.

Pre-Save or Pre-Order Motivated By Death on CD Digipak via Eclipse Records at this location.

Motivated By Death track listing
01. Hate Me
02. Shadow of Life
03. You Loved Me More Than I Love Myself
04. Following the Wind
05. Eyes of A Child
06. Sick Love
07. Papa
08. Aerials (System of A Down cover)

While many symphonic metal acts lean into fantasy tropes, ANA focuses on a sophisticated evolution of the craft. Led by vocalist Anna Khristenko, the band members perform as masked super-humans. This visual identity is captured on the album cover by acclaimed Australian photographer Peter Coulson, bridging the gap between high fashion and the visceral intensity of symphonic metal. Produced by the creative duo of Josh Mak and Khristenko, the record finds a balance between orchestral grandeur and sonic precision. The heart of the record is found in “Shadow of Life”. Despite the title of the album, the band does not dwell on morbidity. Instead, the song treats death as a vital shadow that gives life its shape. It is a reminder to embrace the impermanence of existence as a catalyst for creativity. This celebration of the present moment elevates the record into a deep exploration of the human condition. Other standouts from the album include “Hate Me”. The album was produced by Anna Khristenko & Josh Mak, engineered & mixed by Chris Themelco (Eye of the Enemy, Naberus) at Monolith Studios, and mastered by Thomas “Plec” Johansson (Groove Armada, Soilwork, Mayhem) at The Panicroom Studio. Cover art for the album was shot by Peter Coulson. Motivated By Death by Ana will be released on May 29, 2026 via Eclipse Records.

ANA is an Australian symphonic metal band that blends the grandeur of orchestral arrangements with the visceral power of symphonic metal and modern hard rock, ensuring that “couture metal” is not just about the appearance of luxury, but the substance of the art itself.

Ana lineup
Anna Khristenko (Vocals), Josh Mak (Guitar), Cody Lamb (Bass), Andres Felipe Martinez Osorio (Drums), Mark Shi (Keys)