In a unique blend of weather reporting and music promotion, Chris Michaels, a meteorologist for WRAL 5 in North Carolina, has captured the attention of both weather enthusiasts and metal music fans alike. His recent references to the British band Sleep Token and their upcoming album, Even In Arcadia, have sparked controversy among some fans, leading to a mix of support and backlash.
Since early 2023, Michaels has been known for incorporating metal music references into his daily forecasts, mentioning bands like Bad Omens, Bring Me the Horizon, and Slipknot. This creative approach has garnered a following, with many fans appreciating his efforts to merge two seemingly unrelated worlds. However, his latest hints regarding Sleep Token have not been received warmly by all.
Sleep Token, a masked group that formed in 2016, is set to release their new album Even In Arcadia on May 9, 2025. The album is highly anticipated, especially after the band teased the release of their second single, "Caramel," which showcases a shift in their musical style. The song features a slow build that evolves into a more upbeat, danceable sound, culminating in an atmospheric chorus that leaves listeners craving more.
On April 4, 2025, Sleep Token dropped a teaser for "Caramel" on social media, featuring a flamingo navigating a dimly lit room, accompanied by a music box-like melody. This teaser excited many fans, who eagerly awaited further details about the album. The band has also announced an extensive tour, kicking off on September 16, 2025, in Duluth, Georgia, and wrapping up on October 11, 2025, in Los Angeles.
However, not all reactions to Michaels' references have been positive. Some fans of Sleep Token have accused him of exploiting the band's name for personal gain, claiming he has no real connection to the group. This backlash has led to a wave of harassment directed at Michaels, particularly during live streams where he interacts with viewers.
In response to the negative attention, Michaels took to social media to address the situation. "So, this is a video that I hate to even make, but my obligation is to my viewers here in North Carolina," he stated in an Instagram clip. He urged fans to refrain from being rude to his viewers, especially on days when severe weather was a concern. "I get the disappointment and the backlash, even toward me, but my viewers didn’t sign up for that. Especially on a day when we’re preparing for potentially severe weather, you know – that’s my priority, they’re my priority, so please, act with kindness with them if you’re going to be watching our live streams."
Despite the criticism, many social media users have rallied behind Michaels, condemning the behavior of those who harassed him. Comments expressing support for the weatherman have flooded platforms like X (formerly Twitter), with users calling the harassment childish and unnecessary. One user wrote, "Harassing viewers, or anyone affiliated with him isn’t going to get you the song any faster. The dude’s just doing what he was asked to do." Another expressed a heartfelt apology on behalf of the Sleep Token fanbase, acknowledging that the rude comments were unwarranted and thanking Michaels for the clues he provided about the band.
As the release date for Even In Arcadia approaches, the intersection of music and weather reporting continues to be a hot topic. With fans split between those who appreciate Michaels' creative forecasts and those who feel he oversteps his bounds, the situation serves as a reminder of the complexities of fandom in the digital age.
Sleep Token's upcoming album promises to be a significant entry in their discography, especially following their signing with RCA Records. The band’s unique blend of atmospheric metal and pop elements has garnered them a dedicated following, and their first-ever U.S. arena tour is already generating buzz. The tour will include stops at major venues across the country, such as the Barclays Center in Brooklyn and the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
As for Chris Michaels, his journey as a weatherman who integrates metal music into his reports highlights the ever-evolving landscape of media and entertainment. He has managed to carve out a niche that resonates with a diverse audience, even if it occasionally leads to controversy.
In the end, whether you’re a die-hard Sleep Token fan or simply appreciate a creative weatherman, the blend of music and meteorology continues to create engaging conversations. As the release of Even In Arcadia draws near, fans will undoubtedly keep a close eye on both the weather forecasts and the band’s social media for any further updates.
