• About AMR
  • Festivals & Associations
    • 420 Music & Arts Festival (Calgary, AB)
    • Armstrong Metal Fest (Armstrong, BC)
    • Calgary Metalfest
    • Calgary’s YYC Music Awards
    • Days of The Dead Festival (Red Deer, AB)
    • Loud As Hell Metal Fest (Drumheller, AB)
    • Metalocalypstick Fest (Lone Butte, BC) – Mountains, Camping and the Women of Metal!
    • ShrEdmonton Metal Fest & Conference
    • WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA
    • WACKEN METAL BATTLE USA
  • Services (Hire Us!)
  • Subscribe To AMR Artist News & Album Promo

Archive For

0 ​WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA Opens Band Submissions For 2026 – One Band To Rule Them All! and Play Wacken Open Air!

  • October 23, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Wacken Metal Battle Canada

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 23, 2025

​WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA Opens Band Submissions For 2026

One Band To Rule Them All! and Play Wacken Open Air!

One band to rule them all! Wacken Metal Battle Canada returns for 2026 battles across the country to send one independent metal band to play at Wacken Open Air, one of the world’s most prestigious and largest metal festivals.

Band submissions for Canada are now open until November 30th.

“Canadian metal bands, this is your chance once again. This is the first step to a world of opportunity waiting for you. We invite you to play some great shows, expand your audience, and ultimately have your shot at playing Wacken Open Air,” adds WMBC organizer JJ Tartaglia.

Canadian bands interested in participating can apply at https://www.metal-battle.com/countries/ (please select Canada as your country)

The national final for 2026 battles will be held in Montreal, QC.

Canadian Battle Cities:​
Vancouver, BC
Vancouver Island, BC
BC Interior
Edmonton, AB
Toronto, ON
Hamilton, ON
Ottawa, ON
Montreal, QC
Quebec City, QC

Watch – Wacken Metal Battle 2025 – Aftermovie | Have You Heard the Future of Metal? – https://youtu.be/nCulXiLlaSw

The 2026 WMBC champion will receive the following:
– A slot at the 2026 Wacken Open Air Festival.
– Full professional backline provided.
– $1,000 CAD towards flights to Germany.
– VIP camping at the festival.

List of previous WMBC national winners: Killotine (Hamilton, ON – 2025), Beguiler (Toronto, ON – 2024), Strigampire (Trois-Rivières, QC – 2023), The Slyde (Toronto, ON – 2019), Centuries of Decay (Toronto, ON – 2018), Profaner (Hamilton, ON – 2016), Vesperia (Toronto, ON – 2015), Mutank (Montreal, QC – 2014), Crimson Shadows (Toronto, ON – 2013).

The 2025 Canadian Battle Final took place on May 31st at Vancouver’s Rickshaw Theatre, where Hamilton, Ontario’s KILLOTINE, the Ontario regional winner, delivered a standout performance that earned them the top national title. A panel of industry judges selected KILLOTINE to represent Canada at the prestigious International Wacken Battle, held during Wacken Open Air from July 30th to August 2nd in Wacken, Germany, where over 85,000 metal fans from around the globe gathered.
​
Joining KILLOTINE on stage at the Canadian final were fellow regional champions: SOULTHIEF (Eastern Canada Winner – Ottawa, ON), BEYOND SUFFERING (Alberta Winner – Calgary, AB), and YEGG (British Columbia Winner – Nanaimo, BC). The event also featured a special guest headliner: Vancouver’s Arrow In The Quiver, the 2024 BC Final winner.
​
The national judging panel included a lineup of respected figures from the Canadian metal and music industry: Brittney Slayes (Unleash The Archers), JJ Tartaglia (Canadian Organizer of Wacken Metal Battle Canada), JJ Caithcart (Founder of SCRAPE Records and Host of Different Stages Radio), Kris Schulz (Founder of Empower Through Music and Owner of Horizon School of Music), Abelardo Mayoral (Founder and Operator of The Invisible Orange and OrangeTickets), Stan Schinners (Owner of Broken Neck Radio), Justin Dobbin (Owner and President of Main Stage Rehearsal Studios).

For the last 9 years of battles (2013-2016, 2018-2019, 2023-2025), Wacken Metal Battle Canada has hosted battles across the country to send one independent metal band to perform at the world’s largest metal festival, Wacken Open Air in Wacken, Germany. 2019 saw the festival celebrate its 30th anniversary, but due to COVID, the 2020 and 2021 editions were both canceled. As the metal community regains its strength, Wacken Open Air 2026 will be the 35th edition of the festival and will be held from July 29th to August 1st. The 2026 event is nearly sold out with a line-up that includes Def Leppard, Lamb Of God, In Flames, Savatage, Powerwolf, Emperor, Sepultura, and Running Wild, among others. Details here.

Wacken Metal Battle Canada is part of an international competition that sees bands from across the country battle each other for the chance to win their spot among over 55 other countries’ champions, and represent Canada in an international battle of the bands at the world’s largest outdoor metal festival: Wacken Open Air. The battles have been hosted at the festival for over a decade and give independent bands the opportunity to showcase their talents to an international audience, along with the chance to win multiple prizes.

How it works:​
​Participating cities will host qualifying rounds plus a city final organized by a local city concert promoter, where one band will move forward to the Canadian national final (date and city to be determined). The winner of the national final will move on to perform at the Wacken Open Air 2026 and compete against the winners of other participating countries in a final global battle. All bands will be judged during battle rounds by respected local music industry representatives.

Rules for participation: https://www.metal-battle.com/rules/

Links:​
​Metal-Battle.com​​
​
Facebook.com/WMBCanada.official​
​X.com/MetalBattleCan​
​Instagram.com/wmbcanada.official

– 30 –

Media Partners:​
Bravewords.com
Metal-Rules.com
Absolute Underground Magazine
BrokenNeckRadio.com
V13.net
Rich Embury (internationally syndicated DJ)
GhostCultMag.com
Rocknroam.ca
Vox & Hops Podcast
The Metal Voice
Décibel Métal (CIBL 101.5 FM)

Promoter Partners:​
Boonsdale Records
Dungeonworks Productions
The Invisible Orange
Big Nate Productions
ConcertWorks
Asher Media Relations

​
—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media PR News
Instagram – AsherMedia
Tweet – AsherMedia

0 THE RETICENT Confronts Mental Health with New Video “The Scorn” Off Upcoming Album “please” Out Nov 2025

  • October 23, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · The Reticent

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 23, 2025

THE RETICENT Confronts Mental Health with New Video “The Scorn (Those Who Don’t Understand)”

Fifth Studio Album “please” Out Nov 2025 via Generation Prog Records

L to R – James Nelson (Lead Guitar), Chris Hathcock (Vocals, Guitar, Drums), Paul McBride (Bass)

Photo Credit by Justin H. Reich

Progressive metal act The Reticent has unveiled the lyric video for “The Scorn (Those Who Don’t Understand),” the latest single from their upcoming album “please,” due out on Generation Prog Records on November 13th. Known for their emotionally intense concept albums, The Reticent continues their tradition of soul-baring storytelling with “please,” a harrowing journey through the many battlefields of mental illness.
​
​“The Scorn (Those Who Don’t Understand)” takes on the voice of those who dismiss mental health struggles, echoing phrases like “just get over it” and “it’s all in your head.” Musically, the track leans into groove-oriented rhythms and major chords to reflect the detached worldview of those who don’t understand. The addition of exotic instrumentation like the oud and hand percussion further separates the song from the rest of the album’s sonic palette.
​
But “please” is more than just an album; it’s a survival mechanism. Written in just six months, the album was recorded under extreme conditions. Drums for “please” and its follow-up were tracked in a single day, while guitars, bass, and keys were completed in two. The vocals, however, took two grueling weeks, during which founder Chris Hathcock injured his larynx so severely that doctors feared permanent damage. Hathcock was forced into six weeks of total silence, even teaching his classes entirely nonverbally. Thankfully, he recovered, mostly.
​
The pain didn’t stop there. While filming the video for “The Concealment,” Hathcock broke two toes, sprained three others, and partially tore his rotator cuff during a scene that required him to violently destroy a room. Just six days later, he performed at ProgStorm Festival in Montreal with those injuries, doubled over in pain by the end of the set. Fans, immersed in the emotional intensity of the performance, had no idea.
​
“please” is the first album by The Reticent to be almost entirely engineered by Chris Hathcock himself. While drums were tracked at The Basement Studios with longtime producer Jamie King (Between The Buried And Me, The Contortionist), all other elements were recorded at Hathcock’s Silent Muse Studio. The album was also mixed and mastered by King, adding his signature polish to the final product. The isolation of self-recording introduced an additional layer of emotional strain, especially during the vocal sessions.
​
Lyrically, the album is rich with references to the work of clinical psychologist Kay Redfield Jamison. Lines like “Night falls fast…” in “The Concealment” and “an unquiet mind” in “The Night River” nod to Jamison’s seminal works on suicide and bipolar disorder. Her voice even appears in samples throughout “Discharge.”
​
Musically, “please” marks a return to 6-string guitars, a first since 2016’s “On The Eve Of A Goodbye,” except for “The Bed of Wasps.” The five-year gap between “please” and 2020’s “The Oubliette” is the longest in the band’s history, a reflection of the emotional toll and life events that shaped its creation.
​
​The Reticent, led by Grammy-nominated music educator Chris Hathcock, has built a reputation for devastatingly autobiographical concept albums. Joined by James Nelson (Nospūn) and Paul McBride (Voraath), the band delivers performances that blur the line between metal show and performance art. Their appearance at ProgPower USA was hailed by Metal Injection as “one of the most heart-wrenching performances in ProgPower history.”​
​
In addition to their recent performance at ProgStorm Festival in Montreal this past summer, The Reticent is slated to appear at the 2026 editions of ProgPower USA in September and ProgPower Europe in October, marking another major milestone for the band’s growing international presence.
​
The lyric video for “The Scorn (Those Who Don’t Understand)” is now available on YouTube and streaming platforms.

Watch at https://youtu.be/CR-6wCIpasI

Fans of Opeth, Cynic, The Contortionist, Wilderun, and Devin Townsend will find much to resonate with in “please,” which arrives November 13, 2025, via Generation Prog Records. A follow-up album is already underway, shaped by the profound loss of Chris Hathcock’s father during the creation of “please.”

CD pre-order (North America) – https://thereticent.net/please-pre-order

CD pre-order (EU) – http://www.generation-prog.com/shop/

Digital Album pre-save – https://show.co/MoPdl8W

Music Video- “The Concealment (Those Who Don’t Want To Wake)” – https://youtu.be/1cIKQcJLKtc

Track Listing:​
1. Intake – 1:45
2. The Concealment (Those Who Don’t Want To Wake) – 6:06
3. The Night River (Those Who Can’t Rest) – 6:55
4. Diagnosis 1 – 2:18
5. The Bed of Wasps (Those Consumed With Panic) – 5:47
6. The Scorn (Those Who Don’t Understand) – 8:12
7. Diagnosis 2 – 2:39
8. The Riptide (Those Without Hope) – 6:09
9. The Chance (Those Who Let Go) – 6:52
10. Discharge – 2:56
Album Length: 49:45

Album Recording Credits:​
All instruments and vocals performed by Chris Hathcock except
– Lead Guitar and Additional Acoustic Guitar by James Nelson
– Guest Vocals on “The Bed of Wasps” by Brian Kingsland
– Narration by Vienna Gloom
All songs written by Chris Hathcock
Produced by Chris Hathcock
Engineered by Chris Hathcock
Drums engineered by Jamie King
Mixed and Mastered by Jamie King
Album Artwork by Joscelyne Hauserman

Band Line Up:​
Chris Hathcock – Vocals, Guitar
James Nelson – Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals
Paul McBride – Bass, Backing Vocals

For more info: Thereticent.net | Facebook.com/thereticentmusic | Instagram.com/The.reticent.band

– 30 –

“A taut, compelling progressive metal opus.” – Angry Metal Guy (2020 – The Oubliette)

“A narrative masterpiece. 10/10” – Rock Magazine (2020 – The Oubliette)

“Something all fans of music will want to experience.” – Metal Temple (2020 – The Oubliette)

“Prog’s most emotionally gut-wrenching band returns!” – Metal Storm (2020 – The Oubliette)

“One fact is incontrovertible: songwriter Chris Hathcock is a genius.” – Legacy Magazine (2020 – The Oubliette)

“Undoubtedly one of this year’s best albums, if not THE best album.” – Scream Magazine (Norway) (2020 – The Oubliette)

“As beautiful as it is sorrowful, masterful instrumentals and intense sounds accompany the story of this concept album that explores the slow descent into oblivion that sufferers of Alzheimer’s disease experience. Fans of metal will come for the riffs, and stay for the depth of atmosphere and storytelling. You’ll be left pondering existence after one of the best albums of the year.” – Cave Dweller Music (2020 – The Oubliette)

The Oubliette was included on numerous “best of” lists and was called The Most Essential Progressive Metal Album of 2020” by RTMBA Magazine. More recently, The Oubliette was included on Metal Injection’s 10 Extremely Underrated Progressive Metal Albums list and their 10 Extremely Underrated Metal Albums of the 2020s list.​
—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media PR News
Instagram – Asher Media
Tweet – AsherMedia

0 SHORES OF NULL “An Easy Way” Prelude to Upcoming Split “Latitudes of Sorrow” w/ CONVOCATION Out Nov 2025

  • October 22, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Shores of Null (Spikerot Records)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 22, 2025

SHORES OF NULL “An Easy Way” Prelude to Upcoming Split “Latitudes of Sorrow” w/ CONVOCATION Out Nov 2025

Italian doom metal outfit Shores of Null have released their new single “An Easy Way,” a devastatingly poignant track that opens their upcoming split album “Latitudes of Sorrow” with Finnish funeral doom masters Convocation. The split arrives on November 21st via Everlasting Spew Records.
​
​“An Easy Way” was chosen for its immediacy and emotional impact, a rare blend of haunting darkness and melodic catchiness. Lyrically, it confronts depression, inner struggle, and the fragile line between perseverance and surrender. It’s a reflection on human frailty, wrapped in a soundscape that’s both oppressive and unforgettable.
​
​“It’s the most straightforward track on the split. Catchy, yes, but it leaves very little room for hope,” says the band.
​
The split album “Latitudes of Sorrow” is a collaboration born from shared artistic vision. When Everlasting Spew Records approached Shores of Null mid-way through writing their next full-length, the band seized the opportunity to finish and record three exclusive tracks that might have otherwise remained in the shadows. The result is a darker, more hopeless sonic offering, a perfect complement to Convocation’s funeral doom intensity.
​
​“Two sides of the same coin. Opposite latitudes, but a shared desire to explore sorrow in all its forms,” the band explains.
​
The album’s artwork, created by LL of Convocation, features a spectral figure and an empty chair, a haunting symbol of presence in absence. Musically and lyrically, Latitudes of Sorrow is a journey through grief, solitude, and the inescapable weight of mortality.
​
For fans of Katatonia, Paradise Lost, Evoken, and Esoteric, “Latitudes of Sorrow” offers one of the most grievous and heavy splits in recent memory, a sonic reckoning that will finally make all your summers end.
​
​“An Easy Way” is streaming now on all major platforms. “Latitudes of Sorrow” drops digitally and on CD and Cassette physical format on November 21st via Everlasting Spew Records. The vinyl edition of the split will be issued in Spring 2026.

Listen to “An Easy Way” at https://youtu.be/uGf-jUJwZDE

Digital single (Spotify) – https://ps.tribly.fm/86aq6de

Album countdown and pre-save: https://open.spotify.com/prerelease/79oGZH6MpwHGsTTmnLKo8D

Pre-Order:

Physical: https://bit.ly/42PbNY8

Digital: https://everlastingspew.bandcamp.com/album/latitudes-of-sorrow

Track Listing:​
1. Shores Of Null – An Easy Way
2. Shores Of Null – The White Wound
3. Shores Of Null – The Year Without Summer
4. Convocation – Abaddon’s Shadow
5. Convocation – Empty Room
Split Album Length:

For more info: Shoresofnull.com | Facebook.com/shoresofnull | Instagram.com/shoresofnull

About:

Shores of Null stand out from their contemporaries with their ability to blend seemingly disparate elements into their sound, overwhelmingly heavy and soothing at the same time: blackened aggression stands alongside gothic-doom sections without either sounding out of place. Their music can be both melancholic and majestic, made of chorale-like guitar textures across the instrument’s entire range, sustained by a powerful rhythmic section and punctuated by a refined mixture of clean and growled vocals, along with extensive use of pleasing vocal harmonies which have become the band’s trademark through the years.
​
The Rome-based metal band has been an unwavering presence within the metal underground since their musical outset in 2013, churning out a series of impressive records: the melodic and somber Quiescence (Candlelight, 2014), the darker and more complex Black Drapes For Tomorrow (Candlelight/Spinefarm, 2017), and the ambitious Beyond The Shores (On Death And Dying) (Spikerot Records, 2020), a 38-minute long doom manifesto that sees guest appearances of the doom-titans Mikko Kotamäki (Swallow The Sun) and Thomas A.G. Jensen (Saturnus), along with the angelic voice of Elisabetta Marchetti (Inno).
​
Shores Of Null’s fourth album, The Loss Of Beauty, released in March 2023, was hailed as one of the best albums of the year within the genre. The band supported the release with an extensive EU/UK tour alongside Swallow The Sun, Draconian, and Avatarium, followed by standout performances at major festivals like Hellfest, Rock Imperium, and 70000 Tons Of Metal, among others, further solidifying their status as one of the rising forces in the metal scene.
​
In 2025, Shores of Null released Beauty over Europe, a powerful live album capturing the raw energy and emotional depth of their performances across the continent. The release serves as a testament to the band’s commanding stage presence and the resonance of their music with audiences worldwide. Looking ahead, the band is set to unveil Latitudes of Sorrow, a highly anticipated split album with Finnish funeral doom masters Convocation, promising a profound exploration of grief, atmosphere, and sonic weight.

– 30 –

“Shores Of Null Capture Tour Magic In Beauty Over Europe… Beauty Over Europe is a great listen. Heavy, emotive, engaging and well-delivered, Shores Of Null fans will love it.” – Metal Talk

Metal Hammer writers’ top metal albums of 2023 – Edwin McFee – #20 – Shores of Null – The Loss of Beauty

“With The Loss Of Beauty, SHORES OF NULL have produced their second world class record in a row.” – Distorted Sound Mag (9/10)

“The deep, dark, poetic brilliance behind The Loss Of Beauty is undeniable, and Shores Of Null’s doomy melancholic style is especially ideal for those considering themselves fans of Swallow The Sun, Draconian and Saturnus.” – Metal Storm (8,5/10)

“The Loss of Beauty is a morose and often magnificent listen.” – Metal Hammer UK (8/10)

“The Loss of Beauty is an engaging, exquisite, and moving slice of melodic doom that further cements Shores of Null’s esteemed position in the scene.” – Dead Rhetoric (9/10)

“The Loss of Beauty is an incredibly strong and versatile album, on which themes known from genres such as post black metal or post punk are presented in a diverse and varied manner.” – BetreutesProggen (13/15)

“Once again, Shores of Null continue to impress with yet another slab of high-quality doom/death that seems the quintet on an upwards trajectory.” – Angry Metal Guy (4/5)

“With lyrics like “my loneliness will guide me” and “isolation will set us free,” classic doom drumming, and impressive vocals, Shores of Null announce their intent to deliver the best doom album of 2023.” – Noizze UK (9/10)

“Un grato disco de casi una hora de música, donde la melancolía no es predominante, sino lo melódico, y eso es cae a la perfección.” – Metallerium (9.2/10)

“A savourer, en s’aimant. A savourer, l’esprit ouvert aux beautés que l’on croit – ou que l’on relègue au rang d’- insignifiantes et qui sont le sel du monde qui nous entoure. A savourer, tout simplement..” – Soil Chronicles (9/10)

“Shores of Null haben für mich mit The Loss of Beauty einen heißen Anwärter auf mein Album des Jahres veröffentlicht, das ich jedem Fan von melancholischem Metal mit Doom, Gothic, Melodic Death und Black Metal Einflüssen nur wärmstens empfehlen kann! Von mir gibts für dieses Meisterwerk die Höchstnote!.” – Sound Magnet (10/10)

“If “Beyond the Shores (On Death and Dying)” granted them the status of Masters of the Genre, with “The Loss of Beauty” we cannot help but acknowledge their unquestionable talent for creating stunning beauty that goes under your skin, both with music and words.” – Tuonela Magazine

“It is an album with many faces, a true chameleon, that shows the best of heavy, doom, dark, gothic, death, and a pinch of black metal. The musicians of this band are playing at the very highest level and it is unprecedented what this band is capable of.” – Zware Metalen (94/100)

​
—–
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media PR News
Instagram – AsherMedia
Tweet – AsherMedia

0 EPK – Shores of Null Split album with Convocation – Latitudes of Sorrow (2025) (Everlasting Spew Records)

  • October 22, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Shores of Null (Spikerot Records)

EPK – Shores of Null Split album with Convocation – Latitudes of Sorrow (2025) (Everlasting Spew Records)

Publicist – Jon Asher – jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com

“Combining all the various expressions of doom and assembling one of the most grievous and heavy splits you will have the chance to face for years, SHORES OF NULL and CONVOCATION have conjured to release exclusive brand new tracks together in a meaty split that will finally make all your summers end!”

For fans of Katatonia, Paradise Lost, Evoken, Esoteric

Everlastingspew.com | Facebook.com/everlastingspew | Instagram.com/everlastingspew | X.com/EverlastingSpew | Youtube.com/c/EverlastingSpewRecords

=======

Shoresofnull.com | Facebook.com/shoresofnull | Instagram.com/shoresofnull | Twitter.com/shoresofnull | Youtube.com/user/shoresofnull 

Shoresofnull.bandcamp.com | Spotify | Amazon

Album countdown and pre-save: https://open.spotify.com/prerelease/79oGZH6MpwHGsTTmnLKo8D

Pre-Save / Pre-Add our single 𝘼𝙣 𝙀𝙖𝙨𝙮 𝙒𝙖𝙮 on your favorite streaming platform (Out Oct 22):
https://ps.tribly.fm/86aq6de
Pre-Order:
Physical: https://bit.ly/42PbNY8
Digital: https://everlastingspew.bandcamp.com/album/latitudes-of-sorrow

[Album Cover Download | Album Lyrics Download]

Track Listing:
1. Shores Of Null – An Easy Way
2. Shores Of Null – The White Wound
3. Shores Of Null – The Year Without Summer
4. Convocation – Abaddon’s Shadow
5. Convocation – Empty Room
Split Album Length:

Split Album Credits (for the Shores Of Null side only):
• All songs performed by: Shores Of Null
• All songs written by: Raffaele Colace, Gabriele Giaccari, Davide Straccione
• Produced by: Shores Of Null and Marco “Cinghio” Mastrobuono
• Mixed by: Marco “Cinghio” Mastrobuono at Bloom Recording Studios, Rome
• Mastered by: Marco “Cinghio” Mastrobuono at Bloom Recording Studios, Rome
• Album Artwork by: Lauri Laaksonen (Convocation)

Convocation‘s side of the split was recorded and mixed at The Desolate Dungeon, and mastered at Trollhouse Audio. Lauri Laaksonen created the cover art for the split, with layout by Giorgio Spevo. Split mastering and vinyl mastering was done by Carlo Altobelli at Toxic Basement.

=======================================

About The Split Album Artwork of “Latitudes of Sorrow”:

The artwork for ‘Latitudes of Sorrow’ was created by LL of Convocation. The cover portrays someone who has either left or remains as a haunted, spectral presence in a vast, lonely, void-like space. The empty chair is a powerful image that evokes presence in absence.

About the split album as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

Speaking on behalf of both bands, ‘Latitudes Of Sorrow’ combines doom-laden heaviness with haunting, melancholic atmospheres, creating vast, introspective spaces where absence, mortality, and inner turmoil resonate. It shows two different faces of doom metal that complement each other.

Track by Track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

1. An Easy Way
It is the song that opens the split, and it is the most straightforward of all our songs in there. It has a dual nature: on the one hand, it’s quite catchy and memorable; on the other, it retains a deep inextinguishable darkness that leaves very little room for hope. Lyrically, it deals with depression and the inner struggle, as well as the temptation to surrender when everything seems utterly bleak. It is a reflection on human frailty that can lead to self-destruction.

2. The White Wound
This song was inspired by the avalanche that struck Hotel Rigopiano on January 18, 2017, in the Central Italian region of Abruzzo, near where I grew up. Imagine 120.000 tons of snow coming down from the mountain at the speed of 100 km/h and destroying everything on its way. 29 people died and only 11 survived. Musically, it blends doom-and-gloom passages with sudden blackened blastbeats, reflecting the unpredictable violence of nature. Lyrically, the song meditates on grief, loss, and the anger over the negligence that allowed the tragedy to happen, leaving lasting emotional scars.

3. The Year Without Summer
Browsing the web for catastrophic events, I came across an unprecedented volcanic eruption that took place in 1816 in modern-day Indonesia, which triggered devastating consequences. Sunlight was obscured, temperatures plummeted, and the world faced famine, floods, and epidemics. The song captures the fear, uncertainty, and despair of that time, exploring both the material devastation and the inner turmoil of those who lived through it. It’s a meditation on fragility, loss, and the inescapable force of nature. It features MN of Convocation of growls.

Shores of Null stand out from their contemporaries with their ability to blend seemingly disparate elements into their sound, overwhelmingly heavy and soothing at the same time: blackened aggression stands alongside gothic-doom sections without either sounding out of place. Their music can be both melancholic and majestic, made of chorale-like guitar textures across the instrument’s entire range, sustained by a powerful rhythmic section and punctuated by a refined mixture of clean and growled vocals, along with extensive use of pleasing vocal harmonies which have become the band’s trademark through the years.
​
The Rome-based metal band has been an unwavering presence within the metal underground since their musical outset in 2013, churning out a series of impressive records: the melodic and somber Quiescence (Candlelight, 2014), the darker and more complex Black Drapes For Tomorrow (Candlelight/Spinefarm, 2017), and the ambitious Beyond The Shores (On Death And Dying) (Spikerot Records, 2020), a 38-minute long doom manifesto that sees guest appearances of the doom-titans Mikko Kotamäki (Swallow The Sun) and Thomas A.G. Jensen (Saturnus), along with the angelic voice of Elisabetta Marchetti (Inno).
​
Shores Of Null’s fourth album, The Loss Of Beauty, released in March 2023, was hailed as one of the best albums of the year within the genre. The band supported the release with an extensive EU/UK tour alongside Swallow The Sun, Draconian, and Avatarium, followed by standout performances at major festivals like Hellfest, Rock Imperium, and 70000 Tons Of Metal, among others, further solidifying their status as one of the rising forces in the metal scene.
​
In 2025, Shores of Null released Beauty over Europe, a powerful live album capturing the raw energy and emotional depth of their performances across the continent. The release serves as a testament to the band’s commanding stage presence and the resonance of their music with audiences worldwide. Looking ahead, the band is set to unveil Latitudes of Sorrow, a highly anticipated split album with Finnish funeral doom masters Convocation, promising a profound exploration of grief, atmosphere, and sonic weight.

0 EPK – Brocarde – Pandora’s Box (single) (2025)

  • October 22, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Brocarde · EPKs

EPK – Brocarde – Pandora’s Box (single) (2025)

Publicist – Jon Asher – jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com

“Pandora’s Box is essentially a fight song—it’s sarcastic as hell. At its core, it’s about being misunderstood,” Brocarde explains. “So often, I feel misrepresented, and this song channels that frustration into something fierce and empowering.” – Brocarde explains. 

“It’s about perception—how others see you, and how that often conflicts with your truth. In a world driven by social media, we’ve all become clickbait, and things are so easily twisted or misread.”

“The Puppet master is everyone and no one. It’s that figurehead of control—whoever or whatever that may be. In the video, I’m literally playing into its hands and becoming my own self-fulfilling prophecy. When I first wrote it, it was aimed more specifically at certain people in my life, but over time, it evolved. We all have our own Puppet Masters. We’ve all felt misunderstood. I hope it resonates with people and gives them strength.”

Brocarde continues, “There’s something powerful about the image of a doll—picture-perfect on the surface, but hauntingly silent underneath. And let’s face it, most dolls are terrifying! There’s a recurring theme in my recent releases around identity. It’s something I’ve struggled with, and still do.”

Band: Brocarde
Single: Pandora’s Box
Release Date: October 22, 2025
Label: Season One
Distribution: Ditto
Length: 4:04

Brocarde.com | Instagram.com/brocarde | Facebook.com/brocarde | YouTube.com/@brocarde | Youtube.com/@thebrocardeshow | X.com/thebrocarde.com

Spotify

“Electrifying, creative new artist…powerful stuff!” – David Coverdale

“I love Brocarde’s very unique style and vibe… she has mass aggression to sweetness & everything inbetween in her voice! The very interesting song arrangements & theatrical segments make the whole package a dynamic, fun adventure to listen to! I see great things ahead for her!” – Ray Luzier from Korn

 

Band: Brocarde
Single: Pandora’s Box
Release Date: October 22, 2025
Label: Season One
Distribution: Ditto
Length: 4:04

Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Brocarde
• All songs written by: Brocarde
• Produced by: Chris Collier
• Mixed by: Chris Collier
• Mastered by: Chris Collier
• Album Artwork by: Brocarde
• Video Directed by: Brocarde

=================================================

FUN FACTS – STORY ANGLES:

1. Brocarde had a dramatic supernatural encounter a few years ago that saw her marry (and divorce) a ghost. This encounter has left her with the ability to see and communicate with dead people.

2. Brocarde now travels the world, visiting haunted locations for her website brocarde.com. She also has her own newspaper column with British newspaper The Daily Star, where she showcases her Terrifying Travels.

3. Brocarde has worked with Download Festival on a ghost hunt at the festival site; her investigation showed evidence of two ghosts from the Georgian era being present on-site.

4. Brocarde was invited to Wacken Open Air to perform a seance to connect with Lemmy from Wacken, where she spotted his apparition on horseback, eating a slice of pizza.

5. Brocarde has interviewed several bands, including Floor Hansen from Nightwish and Dani from Cradle of Filth.

Brocarde is the creator of an enchanting world where dark, haunting aesthetics meet passion-fuelled lyrics and design. Brocarde is a dynamic storyteller who marries both music and fashion in an orchestral explosion, designed to make the ears and eyes bleed. A one-woman horror story, if centuries aligned, Brocarde could almost be the secret lovechild of Edgar Allan Poe and Sylvia Plath.

In what could only be described as an effervescent melting pot, Brocarde’s bubbling cauldron is peppered with hints of Little House on the Prairie, and seasoned with remnants of the Addams family values: she’s an all-consuming artist who’s not for the faint-hearted.

Brocarde arrived on the music scene in 2019, presenting her debut single Last Supper. With its biblical relatability and an army of sinister pigs, the music video depicted a twisted fairy tale that whetted the appetite of her loyal supporters. She was hailed as “One to Watch” by Planet Rock Magazine and secured airplay on Kerrang!, Planet Rock, and BBC Introducing.

Since then, Brocarde has gone on to attract the praise of some of rock music’s biggest stars, with Whitesnake’s David Coverdale hailing her as an “electrifying, creative new artist” and describing her as “powerful stuff!” Brocarde’s follow-up single, Love Me ’Til I’m Beautiful, featured drums by Korn’s Ray Luzier. Ray praised Brocarde’s unique vocal style and was enthralled by her ability to capture extreme sweetness and mass aggression in her voice. He described her writing as a dynamic, theatrical adventure and hailed her as a future star.

As someone who’s hugely motivated by the creative process, Brocarde is truly alive when creating – she’s been quoted as crediting songwriting as the thing that got her through some of her darkest, most chaotic moments. As an adolescent, she struggled with fitting in and finding her place in the world, so she used to hide in the woods at school and write lyrics and poems to escape to an alternative dimension. As an adult, the skill still serves her as an outlet for her deepest, darkest, unspoken thoughts.

Speaking of the unspoken, recently Brocarde experienced life outside of our dimension when she found herself being introduced to the spirit world. One dark, stormy night when she was struggling to sleep, Brocarde was visited by Edwardo, the ghost of a Victorian soldier. Edwardo wooed Brocarde, and after a short whirlwind romance, the couple tied the knot on Halloween 2022. On the wedding morning, Brocarde made her second appearance on ITV’s This Morning, this time with her groom Edwardo, who scared Holly Willoughby with his haunting presence. Brocarde dedicated her song “Haunted” to her future husband and walked down the aisle to the spooky orchestral serenade. Her wedding ceremony was televised and appeared on an episode of Say Yes To The Dress with Tan France. The marriage was turbulent, Edwardo the ghost, continued to act like a free spirit and was endlessly untameable. After seeking marriage guidance from a spiritual medium, Brocarde concluded that after six short months of marriage it was time to call in an exorcist and banish her husband forever. Their romance went down in flames, and Brocarde released her menacing divorce song “Just Another Anthem” to mark the beginning of her next chapter…

Brocarde marked the start of single life with an appearance on First Dates on Channel 4.

It took a long time for Brocarde to break Edwardo’s spiritual attachment to her, and there were times when Brocarde never wanted to see a ghost again.

However, after delving into the world of mediumship and spirituality, Brocarde recognised that she had a gift for connecting with the dead and realised that once you marry a ghost, life doesn’t just return to “normal”.

Since her spiritual awakening, Brocarde has dedicated her time to learning and educating people about the paranormal world. She has travelled the world and conducted paranormal investigations in some of the world’s most haunted and terrifying locations. Brocarde has come face to face with the ghosts of malevolent hangmen, murderers, and outlaws, and she has even entered a coven of powerful witches to learn witchcraft, spells and magic.

Last year, Brocarde’s world of horror and music collided when she was invited to do a Ghost Hunt at Download Festival, taking to the Avalanche Stage in the dead of night she came face to face with some headbanging spirits who were waiting in the arena to catch a glimpse of Busted. Fresh off the Download Stage, she travelled to Germany to conduct a special seance in memory of Lemmy from Motörhead at Wacken Open Air. Festival season was a whirlwind for Brocarde, and she interviewed some of the World’s most profile rock bands, she also hosted interviews from the black carpet at the Metal Hammer Awards in Berlin.

2026 marks the launch of Brocarde’s debut album, after ten years in the making. She is set to share some of her most heartfelt songs, a musical story book of colourful emotions and experiences that have made her the woman she is today.

Discography:
2019 – Last Supper
2022 – Haunted
2022 – Haunted (The Bare Bones)
2023 – Just Another Anthem
2025 – Identity Theft
2025 – Last Supper (Reheated Radio)
2025 – Feed My Soul ft. Ray Luzier
2025 – Pandora’s Box

0 BROCARDE Unleashes Her Inner Puppet Master in Haunting New Video “Pandora’s Box”

  • October 22, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Brocarde · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 22, 2025

BROCARDE Unleashes Her Inner Puppet Master in Haunting New Video “Pandora’s Box”

Brocarde, the gothic siren of rock and paranormal provocateur, returns with her latest single and music video, “Pandora’s Box,” the follow-up to her acclaimed collaboration “Feed My Soul” with Korn’s Ray Luzier.

“Pandora’s Box” is a sonic rebellion, a fight song laced with sarcasm, theatrical grit, and raw emotion. The music video plunges viewers into a surreal puppet show of identity and control, where Brocarde plays both marionette and master. Brocarde explains further.

“At its core, Pandora’s Box is about being misunderstood. So often, I feel misrepresented, and this song channels that frustration into something fierce and empowering. In the video, the Puppet Master is everyone and no one. It’s that figurehead of control, whoever. I’m literally playing into its hands and becoming my own self-fulfilling prophecy.”

With haunting doll-like imagery and a twisted fairytale aesthetic, “Pandora’s Box” continues Brocarde’s exploration of identity, perception, and the silent terror beneath surface perfection.

“There’s something powerful about the image of a doll, picture-perfect on the surface, but hauntingly silent underneath. And let’s face it, most dolls are terrifying!” adds Brocarde.

This release offers a glimpse into Brocarde’s long-awaited debut album, set to drop in 2026, a decade in the making. Known for her ghostly vocals and theatrical storytelling, Brocarde has carved a niche as rock’s most fearless medium. From marrying (and exorcising) a Victorian ghost named Edwardo to conducting seances at Download Festival and Wacken Open Air, her life is as spellbinding as her music.

Brocarde’s rise has been anything but conventional. Hailed by Planet Rock Magazine as “One to Watch,” and praised by Whitesnake’s David Coverdale as “electrifying,” she’s earned a reputation for blending horror, fashion, and rock into a genre-defying spectacle. Her previous singles have featured collaborations with industry legends and earned airplay across Kerrang!, BBC Introducing, and Planet Rock.

As she prepares to unveil her debut album, Brocarde continues to challenge norms and conjure her truth through music, magic, and mayhem. “Pandora’s Box” is not just a song; it’s a spell, a scream, and a mirror held up to the chaos of perception.

Watch and listen to the music video for “Pandora’s Box” at https://youtu.be/WRfNe6Y9h7E

Add to your Spotify Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/6vlP4vTbyH1MBlwI7ZIUkb

More info:

https://brocarde.com/

http://instagram.com/brocarde/

https://www.facebook.com/brocarde/

http://youtube.com/@thebrocardeshow

https://x.com/thebrocardeshow

– 30 –

“Electrifying, creative new artist…powerful stuff!” – David Coverdale

“I love Brocarde’s very unique style and vibe… she has mass aggression to sweetness & everything inbetween in her voice! The very interesting song arrangements & theatrical segments make the whole package a dynamic, fun adventure to listen to! I see great things ahead for her!” – Ray Luzier from Korn

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media PR News
Instagram – AsherMedia
Tweet – AsherMedia

0 QUEMASANTOS Teams Up With Guitarist Chris Irarrazábal of Chilean Thrash Legends NIMROD for “The Oneironaut”

  • October 21, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · QUEMASANTOS

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 20, 2025

QUEMASANTOS Teams Up With Guitarist Chris Irarrazábal of Chilean Thrash Legends NIMROD for “The Oneironaut”

L-R – Ignacio Orellana (Bass/Guitars/Drums) | Nelson Diaz (Vocals)

The international metal project Quemasantos returns with a haunting new visual experience: the official lyric video for “The Oneironaut”, a track inspired by the 19th-century writings of Allan Kardec on “journeys of the soul.” In this modern reinterpretation, the band transforms those spiritual ideas into a nightmarish, inter-dimensional voyage that unfolds within the realm of dreams. The track features guest guitarist Chris Irarrazábal of Chilean thrash metal band Nimrod.
​
Watch the lyric video – ‘The Oneironaut’, at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjG2pQEmpng

Add to your Spotify Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/0zVokpdf0F0YfK7gsixH9z

Nelson Díaz comments:

“It’s a song inspired by the 19th-century writings of Allan Kardec on what he called ‘journeys of the soul.’ Today, we could interpret it as a nightmarish vision of an interdimensional journey experienced during sleep.”

Ignacio Orellana adds:

“As we’ve been releasing one track after another, the sound has been evolving in search of what we truly want it to be. As the musician behind the music, it’s been challenging to balance the instruments so that each one shines — because each represents a part of the creator’s soul. I feel that this one leans a little more toward the drums’ side… but the bass, the bass. We’re preparing a few more surprises — stay tuned and be ready to be surprised.”

Formed in the relentless underground of Santiago, Chile, NIMROD stands as one of the country’s pioneering thrash metal forces. Blending speed, aggression, and precision, the band has forged a sound rooted in classic ’80s thrash while pushing forward with a distinctly South American intensity. Known for their explosive live shows and powerful songwriting, NIMROD has shared stages with both national legends and international acts, earning a loyal following across Latin America. With a catalog that captures decades of fury and evolution, the band continues to deliver pure, uncompromising metal, a testament to Chile’s enduring heavy scene.

Credits & Production Details

  • Vocals: Nelson Díaz
  • Music: Ignacio Orellana
  • Lead Guitar: Chris Irarrazábal (Chilean thrash metal band Nimrod)
  • Vocals Recorded At: Ultrasonico Studios — Santiago, Chile
  • Music Recorded At: Oily Sound Studios — New York, USA
  • Visuals & Lyrical Concept: Nelson Díaz
  • Produced, Mixed & Mastered By: Ignacio Orellana

Video edited By: Promusicvideo.com​
​
​More info:

https://quemasantos.com

http://quemasantos.bandcamp.com

http://instagram.com/quemasantos1

http://www.facebook.com/quemasantos

http://www.twitter.com/quemasantos1

-30-

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media PR News
Instagram -AsherMedia
Tweet – AsherMedia

0 CEPHEIDAE VARIABLE’s “The Waiting Storm” Strikes A Thunderous Preview To Album “Primordial Reverie” Out Nov 2025

  • October 20, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Cepheidae Variable · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 20, 2025

CEPHEIDAE VARIABLE’s “The Waiting Storm” Strikes A Thunderous Preview To Debut Album “Primordial Reverie” Out Nov 2025

Photo Credit – Solo artist: Ryan Koepke – Guitar, Bass, Composition, Production

Solo progressive metal project Cepheidae Variable releases its electrifying new single and playthrough video “The Waiting Storm”, offering fans a thunderous preview of the upcoming debut album “Primordial Reverie”, arriving November 7th, 2025.
​
Created by guitarist and composer Ryan Koepke, Cepheidae Variable began as a personal exploration of musical growth. Initially casual, the project took on a deeper meaning following Koepke’s father’s cancer diagnosis and the news that he himself would soon become a father. These life-altering events infused the music with emotional depth and urgency, transforming the album into a cathartic journey through sound.
​
​“The Waiting Storm was the easiest song to name. It’s the action scene of the album: dark clouds, lightning, and movement. It’s also my favorite to play. It’s accessible, energetic, and gets me moving every time,” shares Koepke.

As the third track on “Primordial Reverie,” “The Waiting Storm” delivers relentless momentum. With a catchy main riff and explosive chorus sections, the song is designed to energize. Aside from a brief reprieve in the center, it never lets up, making it one of Koepke’s favorite tracks to perform. It serves as a powerful prelude to the album’s first epic, “Zephyr of Ouroboros”, and showcases Cepheidae Variable’s signature blend of spacey, melodic, and melancholic tones.

Listen to “The Waiting Storm” at the following links:

Playthrough – https://youtu.be/ohvtVeir32g

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/1sYlZE1cDKNFW0cUat8hAW

​​“Primordial Reverie” is a fully instrumental concept album that unfolds across three distinct acts. From the uplifting fantasy of “Carving a Dragon” to the sci-fi complexity of “Singularity”, each track builds upon recurring motifs and evolving themes. The album’s structure mirrors a visual narrative, inviting listeners to craft their own story through the music.
​
​“I wanted to release an album that felt like a journey. Something that builds and shifts, with each song having its own identity. It’s a reflection of my life, my growth, and the emotional turbulence I experienced while writing,” explains Koepke.
​
Through rich orchestration, immersive synths, and intricate guitar work, “Primordial Reverie” transcends genre boundaries and invites deep, intentional listening. Merging the power of progressive metal with cinematic ambiance, Cepheidae Variable draws inspiration from Dream Theater, Haken, Intervals, Wintersun, and Caligula’s Horse to craft a profoundly personal instrumental odyssey.

Digital Album pre-save (out Nov 7th) “Primordial Reverie” – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/cepheidaevariable/primordial-reverie

CD Album pre-order – https://cepheidaevariable.bandcamp.com/album/primordial-reverie

Album Teaser – https://youtu.be/vsnRt_hK57k

Playthrough – “Carving a Dragon” – https://youtu.be/qhp5qvAn2Pk

Track Listing:​
1. Overture (3:11)
2. Carving a Dragon (4:04)
3. The Waiting Storm (3:13)
4. Zephyr of Ouroboros (9:15)
5. Encounter (5:53)
6. The Conduit (6:03)
7. Chromatic Haven (5:11)
8. Entropic Harvester (10:27)
9. Singularity (11:32)
Album Length: 58:53

For more info: https://cepheidaevariable.com/

– 30 –

“This was a solid album to listen to. Without vocals, the artist has to work harder to convey his feelings and emotions in his music, and Ryan did that well. Many of the melodies you can hum or sing along with, and that’s a testament to the instrumental album.” – Metal Temple

“Combining symphonic textures, sci-fi ambience, and progressive intricacy, Primordial Reverie explores the balance between chaos and melody, emotion and evolution. Through layers of orchestral arrangements, synths, and guitar-driven storytelling, Ryan invites listeners to experience a sonic voyage through creation, transformation, and reflection.” – Crannk​
—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media PR News
Instagram – Asher Media
Tweet – AsherMedia

0 DECIMATE METALFEST 2026 – CALL FOR BAND SUBMISSIONS NOW OPEN!

  • October 18, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Decimate MetalFest · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 9, 2025

DECIMATE METALFEST 2026 – CALL FOR BAND SUBMISSIONS NOW OPEN!

The thunder is rolling once more over the Alberta prairies, and Decimate Metalfest, the annual all-ages music and arts festival, is returning to the Millet Agriplex Arena on June 26 & 27, 2026. Once again, transforming the quiet town of Millet into a roaring epicenter of riffs, art, and community spirit.

Building a reputation as a home for underground and alternative talent, this festival champions diversity with an inclusive ethos and serves as a vibrant gathering point for the metal community, a space where all walks of metal unite, proving that the heart of heavy music beats strong in the Canadian West.

Gearing up for their 2026 edition, Decimate Metalfest is excited to announce that submissions for performers, vendors, and entertainers for its lineup are now open!

Join them for a Weekend of Live Music, Camping, Community, and Unstoppable Energy!

Festival Dates: June 26 & 27, 2026
​Venue: Millet Agriplex Arena, Millet, Alberta
​Submission Deadline: October 31, 2025

Applications can be submitted at the following link: https://www.decimatemetalfest.com/performer-submission

WHY DECIMATE?

Since its inception, Decimate Metalfest has earned its place among Western Canada’s most beloved grassroots festivals.

Founded and led by a woman in the heavy music scene, Decimate stands as a testament to passion, resilience, and inclusivity.

Built by musicians for musicians, it’s a space where independent artists thrive, underground scenes collide, and community comes first.

From blistering headline sets to youth band debuts and air-guitar contests to newfound relationships and camaraderie across the venue and campsite, Decimate Metalfest is more than a show. It’s a movement.

Who Can Apply?

Decimate Metalfest welcomes a diverse array of performance acts. We are looking for:

  • Bands and solo artists across all subgenres of metal, rock, alternative, and related styles
  • Youth acts (under-18 performers) – we remain committed to giving new talent a platform
  • Other entertainers, including (but not limited to) drag artists, dancers, comedians, DJs, magicians, performance art, and more

We encourage acts that push boundaries, blend genres, and bring unique energy. Whether you are local or international, emerging or established, we want to hear from you.

All Ages, All Welcome!!

Decimate Metalfest is firmly an all-ages festival. Everyone is welcome, from diehard metalheads to curious newcomers.

Our goal is to build an inclusive environment where families and fans of all generations can experience the metal family experience together!

Vendor & Artisan Opportunities

Do you create handcrafted goods, festival fashion, metal merch, artwork, or other unique offerings? Decimate Metalfest accepts vendor applications each year. This is your chance to bring your brand to a passionate crowd, grow your audience, and be part of the festival experience.

Vendor booths are placed throughout the venue, in high-traffic areas, and we offer support for setup and logistics. Applications are open now, along with performer submissions.

Apply at https://www.decimatemetalfest.com/vend​

Important Submission Details

  • All submissions must be received by October 31, 2025
  • Submissions will be reviewed by our programming team; accepted acts will be notified by early 2026
  • Provide links to demos and/or recordings, live performance videos (if available), a press kit, and stage requirements, and most importantly, “Tell us why we should book YOU!” Tailor your application to showcase what makes your act unique, what you’ll bring to the stage, and why Decimate Metalfest needs your energy in 2026. STAND OUT!
  • Vendor applications should include images of merchandise or product offerings, booth size requirements, and any special needs
  • More details, including the submission form and festival information, can be found at www.decimatemetalfest.com​

ABOUT DECIMATE METALFEST

Founded on passion and perseverance, Decimate Metalfest stands as one of Alberta’s loudest and most inclusive, woman-led festivals. Taking place annually at the Millet Agriplex Arena, the event unites fans and artists from across Canada and beyond for two days of music, art, and unity. With past lineups featuring acts like Into Eternity, FILTH, Narcotic Wasteland, The Order of Chaos, Arrival of Autumn, Ninjaspy, and dozens more, Decimate continues to build a legacy as a festival that truly represents the spirit of the underground.

Decimate Metalfest is a proud member of the Western Canadian Metal Festival Alliance (WCMFA) alongside Armstrong Metalfest, Loud as Hell Open Air Festival, Hyperspace Metal Festival, and Glacial Mutilation Festival!

Stay Connected

For the latest updates, lineup announcements, and ticket purchases, visit the official Decimate Metalfest website. Follow us on social media to stay in the loop:​

Website: https://www.decimatemetalfest.com/​

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decimatemf/​

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decimate_mf/​

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/decimatemf​

Media Contact:

For press inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact us at:
info[@]decimetalfest[.]com

Join us at Decimate Metalfest 2025 for a weekend that promises to be louder, heavier, and more unforgettable than ever before.

Decimate Metalfest Partners and Sponsors Include:

The Town of Millet | Millet Agriplex | Millet Lions Memorial Campground | Prairie Fire Productions Ltd. | Leduc Brewing | Best Copy Shop | Millet Dental Clinic | Asher Media Relations | Absolute Underground Magazine | 387 Entertainment | Fire Lotus Creative | Queen Metal Radio | Rendezvous Pub | Rec Room Calgary | Canadian Beats | Queer YEG | Metal-Rules | Seeing Red Podcast | Long & McQuade Calgary Chinook | Black Collar Mfg. | Ocean Pak Brands

– 30 –

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media PR News
Instagram – AsherMedia
Tweet – AsherMedia

0 Rockshots Records – KARU Unveils Lyric Video “Alone In The Forest” From New Album “Perdition” Out Nov 2025

  • October 17, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · KARU · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 17, 2025

KARU Unveils Lyric Video “Alone In The Forest”

New Album “Perdition” Out Nov 21st, 2025

Finnish symphonic death metallers KARU unveil their second single, “Alone In The Forest,” taken from the forthcoming concept album “Perdition”. Following the intense and cinematic power of “Shadow War,” this new track offers a deeply emotional journey through themes of loss, isolation, and survival amid the spirits of a mythical Japanese wilderness.

Balancing brutal death metal ferocity with majestic orchestral passages and melancholic melodies, “Alone In The Forest” highlights the essence of KARU’s sound where aggression and beauty coexist in perfect harmony. The song’s evolving dynamics from towering riffs and guttural vocals to ethereal melodic sections capture the spiritual and emotional struggle at the heart of the album’s storyline.

Produced, mixed, and mastered by Niko Hienonen, the track showcases the band’s refined compositional depth, strengthened by the intricate guitar work of Kalle Pöyskö and Toni Tieaho (Crystalic, ex-Mors Principium Est). Visually complemented by artwork from Driope Project, the single continues the narrative thread leading to the album’s climactic title track, “Perdition”.

KARU’s music channels both the unforgiving nature of the North and the mysticism of feudal Japan, merging cold precision with cinematic emotion. The result is a sound as vast and powerful as the landscapes that inspired it.

For fans of: Wintersun, Nightwish, Children of Bodom

Listen to “Alone In The Forest”:

Digital – https://lnk.to/VsIw0G

Lyric Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dq1qj6B-ukE

“Perdition” will be released worldwide on November 21st, 2025.

ALBUM PRE-ORDER – https://rockshots.eu/products/karu-perdition-cd

“Shadow War” – Lyric Video – https://youtu.be/kmaz_NyPDOo

Track Listing:
​
1. Shores of Mist and Blood
2. Shadow War
3. Alone in the Forest
4. Embers in the Skies
5. Trail of Fire
6. Path of the Unforgiven
7. Perdition

Karu Line Up:
​Niko Hienonen – Vocals, Production, Orchestrations
Kalle Pöyskö – Guitars
Toni Tieaho (ex-Mors Principium Est, Crystalic) – Guitars

More info:

https://www.rockshots.eu

https://www.instagram.com/karu_band/

https://www.facebook.com/KARUbandofficial

ABOUT:
​
KARU
 was formed in 2017 by Kalle Pöyskö and Niko Hienonen as a studio project. In 2020, the boys came out with the first EP “KARU,” which paved the way for the future of the band. The EP introduced the driving metal force of the band as well as the beautiful orchestrations that would be more prominent in the band’s future releases. In 2023, KARU was formalized as a proper live band, and two singles were released from the upcoming album. In April 2024, the band’s first full-length concept album, “HYDRA,” was released. The album gathered attention from critics and received critical acclaim for its unique atmosphere and attitude towards conjoining brutal metal and beautiful orchestras.

The band started to work on the next full-length album already before “HYDRA” was released. The concept started as an epic journey through the wilderness of a fantasy-themed Japan, drawing inspiration from the Japanese spiritual world, where all the forests have a spirit of their own. The band finished the album in the summer of 2025, only a year after their last album was released. The band went through some lineup changes, and the newest lineup is the founders Pöyskö and Hienonen, as well as the lead guitarist virtuoso Toni Tieaho (Crystalic, Existence Depraved, ex-Mors Principium Est). With the new lineup, the band’s sound evolved to wholly new levels, and “Perdition” is a testament to the band’s new sound.

With “Perdition,” the band aims to bring their music and energetic live show to new audiences within and outside of their native Finland.

-30-

​

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media PR News
Instagram – AsherMedia
Tweet – AsherMedia

Page 3 of 6
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6

Asher Media Relations Tweets

Tweets by AsherMedia

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Join 2,154 other subscribers

Blog at WordPress.com.

  • Bandcamp
  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • YouTube
  • Subscribe Subscribed
    • ashermediarelations.com
    • Join 633 other subscribers
    • Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
    • ashermediarelations.com
    • Subscribe Subscribed
    • Sign up
    • Log in
    • Report this content
    • View site in Reader
    • Manage subscriptions
    • Collapse this bar
 

Loading Comments...