Resurrection in Sound: A New Chapter for Blake Edward Conley

Burial Cake debuts small steps with an exclusive listening party June 17 and official release June 19

Burial Cake, the new experimental and ambient project from artist Blake Edward Conley, has announced the upcoming release of its debut album, small steps, through Somewherecold Records. This release marks a significant new chapter for Conley, who previously performed under the moniker droneroom.

To celebrate the debut, a listening party will be held on June 17 at 4:00 PM PST on Bandcamp, offering fans a first collective listen to the project. Following the event, the album will be officially released on June 19, 2026.

A Sound of Intimacy and “Resurrection”

Recorded in Seattle’s U-District just one week after Conley was discharged from the hospital, the album is described as a “work of new beginnings”. The music is a deeply interior experience, characterized by buzzes, drones, depth charges, and rhythms without beats. Listeners will notice a “painterly aspect” to the recordings, where human noises and the physical presence of the artist are audible, creating an uncanny sense of intimacy.

The album also features two poignant voicemail clips from older women—one demanding a return call to ensure the recipient is alive, and another offering the simple, powerful words, “I love you”.

From the Ashes of droneroom

The transition from droneroom to Burial Cake follows a period of intense personal upheaval for Conley, including a near-death encounter, hospitalization, and the end of a 12-year relationship. The title small steps serves as both a tribute to the classic John Coltrane record and a literal description of Conley’s path toward recovery and progress.

Described as the sound of a “wobbly person confronting pain” and reasserting their footing, the album represents a search for the strength needed to operate in the world again.

How to Listen

small steps is the first of three Burial Cake albums scheduled for release this year. Fans in Washington State are also encouraged to watch for upcoming live events.

• Listening Party: June 17, 2026, at 4:00 PM PST on Bandcamp.
• Official Release: June 19, 2026.
• Formats: Available on Digital and CD via Bandcamp, and on CD and Vinyl through the Somewherecold Records Elasticstage site.

The album features contributions from Drew Sherrick (Mixing & EQ), Jason T. Lamoreaux (Mastering), and Magpie Corsa (Sequencing), with photography by Justen Woods and BEC.