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0 LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR FESTIVAL Announces 2026 Line Up w/ FALLUJAH, ALLEGAEON, SUMMONING THE LICH, GRAVEMASS, CRIMSON SHADOWS, EDGE OF PARADISE and more!

February 23, 2026
by Asher
· Loud As Hell Festival · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 23, 2026

LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR FESTIVAL Announces 2026 Line Up

w/ FALLUJAH, ALLEGAEON, SUMMONING THE LICH, GRAVEMASS, CRIMSON SHADOWS, EDGE OF PARADISE and more!

July 31st – Aug 2nd – Camping & Extreme Music In Alberta’s Badlands – Drumheller, AB

Hashtags #LAHXIV, #LAHOA, #LAHOA2026

LAH 2026 Lineup Spotify Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1Nbkvo4kG0ePTcsCVl2V2T

Renowned for unleashing one of Western Canada’s most punishing festival experiences, Loud As Hell Open Air Festival returns with another year of crushing performances, freak shows, burlesque acts, clinics, vendors, and, naturally, dinosaurs.

Loud As Hell isn’t just a festival; it’s a full‑throttle celebration of metal chaos. Set against the rugged expanse of Alberta’s badlands, where carved sandstone, towering hoodoos, and sweeping canyons dominate the horizon, Canada’s loudest extreme‑music gathering unveils its 2026 lineup featuring FALLUJAH, ALLEGAEON, SUMMONING THE LICH, GRAVEMASS, CRIMSON SHADOWS, STARKILL, SUPER MONSTER PARTY, MOURNING HIGH, EDGE OF PARADISE, HOG MEETS FROG, and many more.

Hosted in Drumheller, AB, from July 31st to August 2nd at the Dinosaurs Down Stampede, the festival’s 14th edition erupts with the ferocity of rising Canadian and international metal acts. This year’s roar echoes through the heart of the country’s largest dinosaur fossil beds, promising an unforgettable weekend of pure sonic devastation.

Weekend Passes (July 31 – Aug 2) are available at https://loudashell.ca/shop/

This weekend pass grants you full access to all the headbanging, moshing, and metal mayhem that Loud As Hell Open Air offers.

Headlining the closing night of the festival are progressive death‑metal titans Fallujah, who released their sixth studio album, “Xenotaph,” on June 13, 2025, through Nuclear Blast Records. The band describes it as their most technical, dynamic, and progressive work to date, expanding on the direction set by “Empyrean” while exploring a sci‑fi conceptual landscape.

Album Stream – Xenotaph – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p30_S3d5pCQ

Headlining night two of the festival, Allegaeon brings a razor‑sharp fusion of technical mastery and soaring melody to the stage. Their sound balances blistering precision with sweeping, emotionally charged songwriting. With the return of original vocalist Ezra Haynes, the band has entered one of its strongest eras yet. Their performances are known for being both surgically tight and explosively energetic. On any festival bill, Allegaeon stand out as a powerhouse of modern melodic death metal.

Music Video – Waking Circles – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u69dc2UIE-w

Headlining opening night, Summoning the Lich is a fantasy‑driven technical death‑metal band from St. Louis, known for blending high‑speed precision with rich, lore‑heavy storytelling. Their latest album, “Under the Reviled Throne,” was released in July 2024 via Prosthetic Records. The record expands their ongoing dark‑fantasy universe, raising the stakes with a more focused, streamlined approach to songwriting. They’ve spent the past three years touring extensively across the U.S., sharing stages with Allegaeon, Gorod, Inferi, Vale of Pnath, and Abigail Williams. With their explosive live energy and cinematic world‑building, Summoning the Lich brings a uniquely immersive, high‑intensity presence to the festival lineup.

Music Video – My Horrors Unending – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=25omoUK_JLI

Other band highlights on this year’s lineup are Gravemass, channeling a bleak, ritual‑driven strain of black metal that feels carved straight from the void. Their sound fuses suffocating atmosphere with an unrelenting, punishing intensity. With their debut album “This Is the Way” on the horizon this coming March 2026, the band is poised to push their occult‑laden vision into a new chapter. Onstage, they deliver a hypnotic and overwhelming presence that pulls crowds deep into their darkness. On any festival lineup, Gravemass stands out as a grim, commanding force built for total sonic devastation.

Music Video – This Is The Way – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sR9gy-AD8-E

Crimson Shadows return with their signature blend of high‑velocity melodic death metal and triumphant, power‑metal‑infused storytelling. Their newest chapter is fueled by fresh material and renewed momentum after years of silence. The band continues to sharpen their heroic, battle‑driven sound with soaring melodies and relentless speed. Their live performances erupt with anthemic energy built for massive festival crowds. Crimson Shadows stand out as a blazing force of epic, melodic fury.

Music Video – Defenders of the Crown – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9S0Wyat6Uw

Starkill continues to refine their blend of melodic death metal and symphonic power metal with renewed force. Their most recent release is the 2025 re‑recorded edition of “Be Dead or Die,” highlighting their updated sound and lineup. The band has remained active onstage, including late‑2025 U.S. shows and appearances at events like Mad With Power Fest. They’ve also teased new music in development, signaling more to come.

Music Video – Be Dead or Die – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFq9b_3E7ug

Super Monster Party explodes onto the stage with a high‑energy fusion of metal, punk, and chaotic party‑themed theatrics. Their sound is fast, fun, and unapologetically wild, built for crowds that want to move. The band’s over‑the‑top performances turn every set into a full‑blown spectacle. They’ve been gaining momentum across the underground scene with their tongue‑in‑cheek intensity and infectious hooks.

Music Video- Test Your Might – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hl9biyqu3qk

Mourning High is a rising force from Arizona/ California, blending crushing heaviness with emotional, melodic intensity. Their sound moves between atmospheric tension and hard‑hitting riffs, driven by powerful vocal dynamics. In 2025, they won the Wacken Metal Battle USA, earning a coveted performance slot at Wacken Open Air and making a strong international debut. Their live shows hit with raw energy and vulnerability, pulling crowds in immediately.

Vendetta – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=In6unLebvLM

Edge of Paradise is a cinematic hard‑rock/metal force from Los Angeles, known for their fusion of electronic textures, industrial edge, and soaring melodic hooks. Their newest album, “Prophecy,” was released in March 2025 via Napalm Records. The record marks their sixth studio release and explores themes of AI, humanity, and the looming “Singularity.” The band remains active on the road, including 2026 festival appearances such as Hyperspace Metal Festival in Vancouver and Rock in Rautheim in Germany. With their cinematic soundscapes and high‑energy performances, Edge of Paradise bring a futuristic, electrifying presence to the festival lineup.

Music Video – Falling Light – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pAxGA5ogRv0

Hog Meets Frog is an Austrian avant‑garde groove‑metal trio known for their wild fusion of funk, prog, jazz, and heavy riff‑driven chaos. Their self‑described “Frogcore” sound blends technical musicianship with eccentric humor and high‑energy theatrics. The band continues to build momentum across Europe with recent singles, new live sessions, and steady festival appearances. Their shows are unpredictable, explosive, and packed with quirky character work that turns every performance into a spectacle. Hog Meets Frog brings a vibrant, genre‑bending jolt of fun and ferocity to LAH this year.

Urbanizer – ft. Marco Minnemann (The Aristocrats, Steven Wilson, Joe Satriani) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PBE6BjOGuc

LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR 2026

Thursday, July 30 – Kick-Off Party
Art Of Attrition (Red Deer, AB)
Fall Of Earth (Edmonton, AB)
All Was Lost (Edmonton, AB)
The Judge The Juror (Edmonton, AB)

Friday, July 31
Summoning The Lich (St. Louis, MO)
Circus Of Hell – Freak Show (Peace River, AB)
Starkill (Chicago, IL)
Iron Kingdom (Vancouver, BC)
Hazzardous Material. – Burlesque (Alberta)
Edge Of Paradise (Los Angeles, CA)
W.M.D. (Vancouver, BC)
Selias (Toronto, ON)
Citizen Rage (Calgary, AB)
Supermodel Taxidermy (Fort McMurray, AB)

Saturday, August 1
Allegaeon (Fort Collins, CO)
Gravemass (Vancouver, BC)
Hazzardous Material – Burlesque (Alberta)
Super Monster Party (South Florida)
Death Toll Rising (Edmonton, AB)
Autumn Lies Buried (Clarksville, TN)
The Behest Of Serpents (Canton, OH)
Cyanate (Reno, NV)
Arrow In The Quiver (Vancouver, BC)
Brain Stem (Edmonton, AB)
Savage Blade (Nelson, BC)
Shackled To The Throne (Edmonton, AB)
Hog Meets Frog (Vienna, Austria)
Decrepitation (Edmonton, AB)

Sunday, August 2
Fallujah (San Francisco, CA)
Circus Of Hell – Freak Show (Peace River, AB)
Crimson Shadows (Toronto, ON)
Hazzardous Material – Burlesque (Alberta)
Mourning High (Arizona/California)
Scream At The Sky (Pueblo, CO)
Dawn Vally (Toronto, ON)
Red Raven Chaos (Montreal, QC)
Spectre (Winnipeg, MB)
Die Another Day (Calgary, AB)
Unsilenced (Winnipeg, MB)
Devolver (Grande Prairie, AB)
Ditch Pisser (Alberta/BC)
Hellrager (Cornwall, ON)
Reject (Reject, SK)

Since launching in 2012, Loud As Hell Open Air Festival has cemented its place as a cornerstone of Canada’s extreme music scene, showcasing hundreds of bands from across the country and around the world, save for a brief pause in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the years, the festival has hosted heavyweights like Revocation, First Fragment, Beyond Creation, Striker, Green Jelly, The Convalescence, Jungle Rot, Narcotic Wasteland, Into Eternity, Goatwhore, Fit for An Autopsy, Archspire, Unleash The Archers, Protest the Hero, AngelMaker, and many more, drawing metalheads from coast to coast for a weekend of sonic devastation.

More info:
LoudAsHell.ca
Facebook.com/LoudAsHellFestival
X: @LoudAsHellFest
Instagram: @LoudAsHellFestival
Social Media Hashtags #LAHXIV, #LAHOA, #LAHOA2026

LAH Partners:
WCMFA – Western Canadian Metal Festival Alliance
Asher Media Relations
Bravewords
Metal-Rules
Absolute Underground Mag
Ghost Cult Magazine
This Day In Metal
Valley Brewing
Canalta Hotels
Neighbours’ Corner Pub
Prairie Fire Productions Ltd
CFUV 101.9 Thrash Can
Slimbztv
High Voltage TV
Through The Looking Glass Photography
Heavy Metal A Way Of Life
QMR (Queen Metal Radio)
Broken Neck Radio

– 30 –

What the press is saying:

“Located an hour and a half east of Calgary is the town of Drumheller, Alberta. With a population in the neighborhood of 8000 and existing smack dab in the middle of Canada’s desert and dinosaur country, it’s not a place one would immediately associate with any sort of metal scene, let alone a big-ass outdoor metal fest. But that’s where you’d be wrong. Going into its 11th year, the Loud as Hell Festival is set to roll on August 4-6th with the likes of Narcotic Wasteland, Jungle Rot and Incite headlining three days of metallic fun featuring 40 or so bands, including The Convalescence, Gorgatron, Necronomicon, Untimely Demise, Eyes of Perdition and more.” – Decibel Magazine

“Western Canada’s loudest heavy metal festival brings fans to town more known for dinos than drum solos.” – CBC Calgary

“What’s more metal than the badlands? Drumheller, AB, is known for being the dinosaur capital of the world — but it’s also the home of the Loud as Hell festival, an event celebrating none other than the loudest music known to man (and, by proxy, prehistoric reptile).” – Exclaim!

“Loud as Hell – one of Canada’s top underground metal festivals – was a metal family reunion. If you walked around the grounds, where tents covered the landscape like flowers, you would experience concert goers laughing, hugging and just enjoying the moment. The music played non-stop and the people were some of the best you’ll meet. What else do you need? If you’re a metalhead fan, mark it down for next year because this is a concert you don’t want to miss.” – Blackfalds Life

“Headbanger alert: Loud As Hell festival to ramp up the volume” – Calgary Herald

“Nevermind the bug spray and sun tan lotion, as August approaches Drumheller residents should stock up on earplugs.” – Calgary Herald

“Loud As Hell returns to the southern Alberta city for its seventh year and as its name implies, will rock the city to its core.” – Calgary Herald

“Loud as Hell has celebrated eight years in the Badlands to date, with acts from all over the world-shattering the peace and quiet of the hills in a camping and music extravaganza.” – Hanna Herald

“Drumheller with its dinosaur bones is the site of the annual Loud as Hell heavy metal festival Friday through Sunday. Dozens of the heaviest bands known to Man will be taking the stage, many of them Canadian” – Gig City

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media Relations
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0 EPK – Haiduk – Archdevil (2026)

February 22, 2026
by Asher
· EPKs · Haiduk

EPK – Haiduk – Archdevil (2026)

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

“Archdevil doubles down on everything Haiduk stands for: speed, busy riffs and evil melodies. The focus is to keep the listener on edge and constantly introduce new patterns to keep you engaged.” – Haiduk

For fans of Bolt Thrower, Vomitory, Old Man’s Child, Dissection, Behemoth

Band: Haiduk
Album Title: Archdevil
Release Date: Feb 26, 2026
Label: Self-Release

https://www.haiduk.ca | http://www.facebook.com/haidukmetal | https://www.youtube.com/@HAIDUKmetal

https://haiduk.bandcamp.com | https://music.apple.com/us/artist/443991596 | https://open.spotify.com/artist/49bHthZNh24b3l7ykClIig

“The patented death/black/speed Metal rips your skull for 31 minutes“ 4.5/5 – Metal-Rules (2021 – Diabolica)

“An endless supply of evil, face-ripping riffs“ – Metal Crypt (2021 – Diabolica)

“Fast and unrelenting from start to end” 8/10 –Metalbite (2021 – Diabolica)

“Haiduk’s most aggressive work“ – The Killchain (2021 – Diabolica)

“A lot of eye-popping technical skill, intricate plotting, and brilliantly multifarious and mutated tonalities on display“ – No Clean Singing (2021 – Diabolica)

“A tremolo picked tornado of dark matter and blastbeats.” – The Circle Pit (2018 – Exomancer)

“[Haiduk’s] strong point has always been his riffs, and here they just destroy” 8.5/10 – Brave Words (2018 – Exomancer)

“[Haiduk] has perfected his own signature style and very few bands are doing this style” – Metal-Rules (2018 – Exomancer)

“Haiduk, all I have to say is you are one talented dude. It’s always impressive to me when a single person can put together an entire album on thier own, but to do so with such a level of both technical marksmanship and enjoyability is bizonkers. I look forward to hearing more of your thrash-heavy black and death metal in the future.” – Metal Trenches (2015 – Demonicon)

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Band: Haiduk
Album Title: Archdevil
Release Date: Feb 26, 2026
Label: Self-ReleaseTrack Listing:
1. Curser (3:09)
2. Vexer (2:42)
3. Reviler (3:36)
4. Deviser (3:10)
5. Torturer (2:51)
6. Darkener (4:00)
7. Abhorer (2:30)
8. Infester (2:33)
9. Venomer (3:04)
10. Necrifier (3:13)
11. Usurper (3:05)
Album Length: 33:53

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by: Luka Milojica
• All songs written by: Luka Milojica
• Produced by: Luka Milojica
• Mixed by: Luka Milojica
• Mastered by: Luka Milojica
• Album Artwork by: Luka Milojica
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Album Band Line Up:
Luka Milojica – Guitars, Bass, Vocals, Drum Programming

Live Band Line Up:
Luka Milojica – Guitars, Vocals.

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

The album as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

Musically, Archdevil doubles down on all the strongest aspects of Haiduk. Evil melodies complement tight compositions of fast, busy riffing. The focus is to keep the listener on edge and constantly introduce new patterns to keep you engaged. Haiduk tries to overwhelm you and keep the intensity up for as long as possible.

Lyrically, it’s a continuation of the dark lore of the fantasy world of Callost, which every Haiduk album is based on. 9 of the 11 new tracks are based on the original 9 demons introduced in Demonicon (2015). While song 6 – ‘Darkener’ is the Demon God himself, the Archdevil, and song 11 – ‘Usurper’ is the doomed human king Arias, who ventured into the volcano fortress Octavia and was taken over and demonized by the evil forces of Hell. Now returning to wage war against the humans he once led.

Track by Track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

1. Curser – The Curser is the demon Corloch. His main powers are curses and fire magic.

A track that starts slow but builds intensity. Lots of riff and pace variations and a dark atmosphere.

2. Vexer – The demon Vordus. His main powers are sorcery and mind control. Vordus killed and then necrified (morbidly brought back to life) the human king Arias, who led his army into the demons’ volcano fortress, Octavia. Arias, now a demon himself, is known as the Usurper.

Relentless track that pummels the listener with fast and heavy riffs nonstop.

3. Reviler – The demon god Azyr. His powers are control over the depths of the earth. He can cause tremors, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

A black metal song with evil riffs.

4. Deviser – The demon lord Nazon, known as the Exomancer: a practitioner of cosmic magic. Upon destroying the armies of Lostar, Nazon turned south to destroy the human city of Ganthas, but the outnumbered demons broke under the knights’ charge. In retreat, Nazon called down a great comet, obliterating the advancing army.

A song that combines speed, heaviness, and lots of riff deviations and permutations, with several rhythmic slow-downs and build-ups.

5. Torturer – The demon Nergion, the inquisitor of hell. Nergion is a master of sinister torture and the extraction of confessions through vile torment.

A fast, heavy song that hammers you relentlessly except for a few early pauses. The first half of the song is all riffs, while the second half brings in some melodic layers.

6. Darkener – The demon god Vordok – the Archdevil – lord of all demons.

7. Abhorer – The demon lord Syth. Made of fire and emerging from hell, Syth is intent on reducing the world above to ash.

Frantic, high-key track with riffs that burn like magma.

8. Infester – The fearsome devil lord Sarxas, a gargantuan beast. Sarxas led the devils of Octavia and defeated Lostar’s northern army. Sarxas trapped the army of Lostar, led by the great warrior Theric, between the mountains and the sea, slaughtering them all.

A fast death-thrash song with tons of energy and technical riffs, characterized by a mid-tempo section in the middle.

9. Venomer – The demon lord Xhadex, a shapeshifter who often takes the form of a great serpent. Xhadex can weave illusions and draw upon interdimensional forces to annihilate his enemies.

A thrash song with an upbeat tempo and non-stop, urgent, fast riffs.

10. Necrifier – The demon Deamris. Leader of great armies of lesser devils. He annihilated and then morbidly resurrected the Lostar human army once led by King Arias.

11. Usurper – Usurper is the former human king Arias, who led the Lostar army into the demons’ volcano fortress, Octavia. There, he and his army were slaughtered and necrified: brought back to life as demons by demonic forces.

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

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. All of Haiduk’s concepts and lyrical themes deal with the fantasy medieval realm of Callost. The different albums feature maps, descriptions, and stories set in the world.

2. Haiduk performs live as a one-man band, playing guitar and vocals while the drums and bass are pre-recorded and played on the PA system. Haiduk once played a show in a 115-year-old barn near downtown Calgary, which was tilting and looked like it would collapse any second.

3. Producer Robert Kukla handled various mixing and mastering duties for the albums ‘Spellbook’ and ‘Demonicon’. Rob Kukla went on to work in the famous Studio Fredman in Sweden and has worked with bands like Aeon and Obscura.

4. Haiduk has distributed over 1,500 CDs around the world and sold CDs in 22 different countries. All self-released with no help from labels or distros.

5. Haiduk did his own album art for ‘Diabolica’.

Haiduk is the death metal solo project by guitarist Luka Milojica. The project arose with the raw demo – ‘Plagueswept’ in 2010.

Working in solitude, Haiduk unveiled the full-length debut ‘Spellbook’ in 2012; a black magic conjuring of fast guitars and powerful riff attacks.

Invoking spells of demonic strength, Haiduk raised forces from the infernal depths, sealing arcane powers into the ‘Demonicon’ in 2015; a blackened tome of blasting distortion.

Chanting words of astral terror, Haiduk became the ‘Exomancer’ (2018); a summoner of cosmic darkness.

Frozen in darkness under the ash cloud, the desolate ground opens. Octavia erupts, releasing the doomed king from the burning abyss. Devils swarm, carving a path of destruction for a new demonic domain – Diabolica (2021).

In 2026, Haiduk returned with the album ‘Archdevil’, keeping the dark flame alive.

Discography:
2026 – Archdevil (full-length)
2021 – Diabolica (full-length)
2018 – Exomancer (full-length)
2015 – Demonicon (full-length)
2012 – Spellbook (full-length)
2010 – Plagueswept (demo)

Shared Stage with: Reverend Kill, Hammerdrone, Ye Goat Herd Gods, Vile Insignia, Dethgod, Fjell Thyngor, Illyrian.

0 Rockshots Records – Out Now! Symphonic Black Metal Force DAIDALOS New Album “Dante”

February 20, 2026
by Asher
· Daidalos · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 20, 2026

Out Now! Symphonic Black Metal Force DAIDALOS New Album “Dante”

The new album “Dante” by Daidalos is out today worldwide via Rockshots Records.

Founded in 2020 by multi-instrumentalist and composer Tobias Püschner, Daidalos has quickly shaped a distinctive voice in the modern symphonic black metal scene. With “Dante”, the project reaches a new level of intensity and vision, transforming the descent into Hell into a psychological journey through doubt, despair, and revelation.

Darker, more focused and more dramatic than ever, the album blends massive orchestration, razor-sharp guitars and a powerful emotional arc, creating a cinematic and immersive listening experience. Each track is built from a single piano idea inspired by Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy, evolving into a continuous black-metal audio drama in which interludes and songs merge into a cohesive descent.

Entirely composed and performed by Püschner and produced by Nahuel Lozano (Mental Cruelty), “Dante” stands as a bold and personal work that pushes the boundaries of symphonic black metal into something deeply atmospheric and narrative-driven.

For fans of: Dimmu Borgir, Fleshgod Apocalypse, Septicflesh.

New album “Dante” out now as of February 20th, 2026, from Rockshots Records.

CD Version of “Dante” – https://rockshots.eu/products/daidalos-inferno-cd
LP Version of “Dante” – https://rockshots.eu/products/daidalos-inferno-lp

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/0cwWz3bBX0Y80XhB1MMeTP

Lyric Video – Dis – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pq90saioITY

Visaulizer – Euphobia – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YP2Wg-R3VpQ

Track Listing:
1. Dante – 2:18
2. Inferno – 3:42
3. Ashes – 4:22
4. Storm – 4:05
5. Minos – 0:30
6. King – 4:00
7. Styx – 2:08
8. Gate – 0:20
9. Dis – 4:15
10. Phlegethon – 1:18
11. Malebolge – 0:40
12. Euphobia – 4:54
13. Ultimatum – 4:19
Album Length: 36:51

Daidalos Line-Up:
Tobias Püschner; Vocals, Drums, Keyboards, Orchestrations, Songwriting, Production

More info: Rockshots.eu | Instagram.com/daidalosmusic | Facebook.com/daidalosband

About: Daidalos is the brainchild of German composer and multi-instrumentalist Tobias Püschner, founded in 2020 as a creative outlet merging black metal, orchestration and conceptual storytelling. What began during the isolation of the pandemic quickly evolved into a full artistic vision – a fusion of cinematic grandeur and the emotional depth of extreme metal.

The debut album “The Expedition” (2022, Rockshots Records / Extreme Metal Music) introduced Daidalos as a unique force in the symphonic black metal scene. Entirely written and performed by Püschner, the album reimagined the tragic story of the Franklin expedition through a vast and icy soundscape where atmosphere and aggression met in perfect tension. Critics praised its originality and ambition, calling it a “symphonic extreme metal masterpiece” (AMMO Underground) and “an album that captures imagination and balances beauty with intensity” (GBHBL).

Building upon that foundation, Püschner continued to refine his approach – weaving together cinematic orchestrations, classical influences and the raw intensity of black and death metal. Collaborating with Nahuel Lozano (Mental Cruelty) on guitars, recording, and production, Daidalos shaped its signature sound: monumental, dramatic and deeply emotional.

Across his work, Püschner treats music as a form of storytelling – each record conceived as a self-contained world. His compositions often explore historical, philosophical and spiritual themes portrayed through the lens of symphonic black metal and theatrical expression.

With “Dante” (2025), Daidalos reaches a new artistic chapter: not a retelling but a reinterpretation of the Divine Comedy, where doubt, despair and revelation intertwine. Yet the core remains the same – the search for meaning in darkness, expressed through meticulous orchestration, intense vocal delivery and the balance between aggression and melancholy that defines Daidalos.

Endorsements: Steinberg (Cubase 12), Hörluchs (In-Ear Monitoring)

-30-

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

0 Montreal Avant-Garde Metal with An Oboe DISORIENTATION Unveils New Single “The Pact” To Welcome New Members

February 20, 2026
by Asher
· Disorientation · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 20, 2026

Montreal Avant-Garde Metal with An Oboe DISORIENTATION Unveils New Single “The Pact” To Welcome New Members

L-R – Daniel Daris – Bass and Dirty Semi-Acoustic Rhythm Guitar; Marie-Claude Fleury – Lead and Backing Vocals, Oboe and Noise; Laurent Bellemare – Drums and Backing Vocals; Samuel Arseneau-Roy – Lead and Rhythm Guitar

Photo Credit – Geneviève Racine

Montreal dark experimental metal band Disorientation returns with “The Pact,” a new standalone single that signals the beginning of the group’s next chapter. Following the acclaim surrounding their 2023 EP “Survival Mode,” the band now emerges as a fully formed lineup, an evolution that is both sonic and symbolic.

Formed in 2020 by Marie‑Claude Fleury and Daniel Daris, Disorientation quickly carved out a niche with their unsettling blend of harsh vocals, dissonant woodwind arrangements, and structures that defy conventional metal boundaries. Their 2021 self‑titled EP earned early praise from local fans and media outlets such as Metal Trenches and Metalperver, while “Survival Mode” pushed their sound further into unorthodox territory, drawing accolades like “oddly fascinating” (Real Gone Rocks) and “madness bottled into just wonderfulness” (The Doorway to Zine).

Now joined by guitarist Samuel Arseneau‑Roy (Spectral Wound, Basalte) and drummer Laurent Bellemare (Chthe’ilist (live), Basalte, Sutrah), Disorientation is stepping into a fuller, more organic incarnation of itself.

“The Pact” was intentionally crafted as a standalone release, an opportunity to integrate the new members quickly and establish the band’s updated identity.

“We decided to limit ourselves to a single track so we could bring our two new members into the band quickly. We had to take some extra steps to bring the music to life, but it was worth it. This is our best‑sounding effort to date,” says vocalist/oboist Marie‑Claude Fleury.

Musically, “The Pact” is a journey through tension, revelation, and unease. It opens with a distant, noisy oboe motif before erupting into a fast, jagged pace. The track shifts through abrupt stops, whispered exchanges, mid‑tempo introspection, and acoustic glimmers of light, only to be swallowed again by the return of its initial riff. The final section, driven by palm‑muted guitars and unsettling vocal textures, places the listener at a crossroads.

“Which way do you go? This is the moment where choices must be made,” adds Fleury.

Lyrically, “The Pact” explores the rapid formation of intense connections and the darker undercurrents that can accompany them.

“It’s about those people you meet and get close to very quickly. As the attachment forms, a dark side appears. Is the bond as positive as it first seemed? And where can it lead?” says Fleury.

The single’s artwork reflects this duality: two hands clasped willingly, yet bound by shackles, an alliance that is both chosen and constrained.

With the addition of Samuel Arseneau‑Roy and Laurent Bellemare, who, along with Fleury, also perform in Montreal’s Growlers Choir, Disorientation’s sound has expanded in depth and physicality.

“Having a real drum and an extra guitar player definitely improved our sound. We now sound fuller and thicker. We’re looking forward to creating more music together,” comments Fleury.

Although Disorientation has yet to make its official live debut, the newly completed lineup has already explored its chemistry through private semi‑acoustic performances, an early glimpse of the versatility and intensity they intend to bring to the stage. Their unsettling atmospheres, atypical structures, and the uncommon presence of the oboe within extreme music remain central to their identity. The band fully embraces its odd, miserable, in‑your‑face, and troubling sonic character, and with “The Pact,” they push those traits even further while solidifying themselves as a unified creative force.

Recommended for fans of Celtic Frost, Imperial Triumphant, Sear Bliss, Fear of God, and Show of Bedlam, listen to “The Pact” at the following links:

Lyric Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qolhe_eE_SQ

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/3xThE92nJKTHkPTGPbUAbj

Bandcamp – https://disorientationmetal.bandcamp.com/album/the-pact

More Info:

https://www.facebook.com/disorientationmetal

https://www.instagram.com/disorientationmetal

-30-

“Anyone who loves powerful metal and classical music will love this unorthodox fusion project.” – New Noise Magazine (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“Delving deeper into the eerie atmospherics of metal’s less-trodden path, we find Disorientation, a Montreal-based duo who eschews the symphonic metal genre’s usual dalliance with ethereal beauty, opting instead for an odyssey through sonic desolation. Born from the minds of Marie-Claude Fleury and Daniel Daris, Disorientation is the antithesis of grandeur and elegance, painting a world where the grotesque and the sublime collide.” – Idioteq (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“A really good surprise, and a magical, tragic, lysergic EP, which immerses us in a Rank Xerox universe. 8.5/10” – MetalNews.fr (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“This EP is obtuse, ugly and deeply troubled. Yet, at the same time, it’s oddly fascinating. (…) In terms of finding a way into Disorientation’s world of noise, there’s no easy route – and the duo seemingly want to keep it that way. For those who wrongly claim that extreme metal has nothing new to offer, this EP will gladly prove otherwise.” – Real Gone Rocks (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“Il risultato è a tratti stupefacente nella sua originalità, e la coppia riesce costantemente a esaltarsi grazie a trovate teatrali e visionarie.” 8/10 – Rock Hard Italia (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“DISORIENTATION sind kompromisslos schräg und nicht auszurechnen (…) die Songs und deren Stimmungsaufbau fügen sich dann doch zu einem Ganzen zusammen, das motivierend genug ist, um die Repeat-Taste zu drücken – solange bis die Kopfschmerzen nicht mehr auszuhalten sind.” – Vampster (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“Au vrai, Disorientation ne ressemble à rien et c’est finalement très bien ainsi. (…) Il n’est pourtant pas interdit de déceler dans cet EP de prime abord peu engageant, non pas une forme de beauté (il ne faut pas exagérer) mais au moins une espèce d’éclat fascinant, une lueur obsédante qui n’est parfois pas sans rappeler le King Crimson le plus halluciné. A conseiller à ceux que n’effraie pas le metal (très) extrême le plus dissonant.” 3/5 – Music Waves (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“It is madness bottled into just wonderfulness. (…) I love how it goes between symphonic, hardcore, dark metal and just experimental noise at times, there’s a lot of orchestral arrangements and just bizarreness in this band, (…) This band is just advanced in ways that you’re either going to love it or hate it.” – The Doorway to Zine (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“Moving away from the raw quality of the recording of their self titled debut EP with “Survival Mode” while Disorientation claim to have created something more straightforward this time around, that’s not the impression that we get. The Avant-garde duo instead go deeper down the rabbit hole and continue their perpetual forward motion with a ferocious and spine chilling trio of cuts that once again disorientate and disturb.” 8/10 – Metal Noise (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“Montreal duo, Disorientation, aim to create a feeling of dizziness and nausea in the listener. If this fails, they can at least punish you with confusion. As an avant-garde metal act with a cor anglaise (English horn) and an oboe as their primary instruments, you can expect unorthodox interpretations of the metal orthodoxy. Survival Mode is their second release following 2021’s self-titled EP, and it’s the type of art that would have landed them an appointment with the hangman in sixteenth-century England as enemies of public decency. (…) Clearly, Igor Stravinsky is the main influence on this EP.” 7/10 – Scream Blast Repeat (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

—
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0 EPK – Disorientation – The Pact (single) (2026)

February 20, 2026
by Asher
· Disorientation · EPKs

EPK – Disorientation – The Pact (single) (2026)

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

“We are sure that our fans will be pleased because this song is a continuation and also a step forward. We have kept the core elements of our identity, but now, with the addition of Samuel Arseneau-Roy on guitar and Laurent Bellemare on drums, we are sounding fuller and more organic. The Pact is a little more subtle than any song from our previous EP. This time around, we focused on background elements such as different types of noise and back vocals to create the atmosphere we wanted.” – Marie-Claude (vocals/oboe) – Disorientation

For fans of Celtic Frost, Imperial Triumphant, Sear Bliss, Fear of God, Show of Bedlam

Facebook.com/disorientationmetal | Instagram.com/disorientationmetal | YouTube

Disorientationmetal.bandcamp.com | Spotify | Apple Music

“I have received the 2026 single “The Pact”and will share my thoughts on it. The intro is damn good. The Oboe and the suspense. The fast pace song with crazy back ground audio that create a dark eerie atmosphere. The riffs, vocals and break in the song is epic. The song is 7 minutes plus of pure magic. The composition and execution is top class. I do like how back ground audio that include voices is used to create the atmosphere in the song. For me this is a brilliant song by a brilliant band.” – Project Metal Music

“Anyone who loves powerful metal and classical music will love this unorthodox fusion project.” – New Noise Magazine (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“A really good surprise, and a magical, tragic, lysergic EP, which immerses us in a Rank Xerox universe. 8.5/10” – MetalNews.fr (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“Nina HAGEN qui traîne dans les couloirs, Haendel qui compose pour Frank ZAPPA et les MOTHERS, un voyage sans repères, mais qui fait un bien fou dans une époque standardisée à outrance et plus occupée à regarder en arrière qu’à innover vers l’avant. En trois morceaux seulement, le duo se fait une place confortable sur la scène canadienne contemporaine, défiant même les VOÏVOD en termes de liberté artistique.” 85% – Metal News (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“With occasional expansions of the lead vocals into what I’d describe as a more classical inspired mode of singing too. It is an unusual mix of elements and an unusual use of these elements too, which makes me think that progressive metal is the best manner in which to define these landscapes. A production to seek out by those with a taste and affection for a more experimental and unusual variety of extreme progressive metal.” – Progressor (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“It sounds all over the place… a very avant-garde vibe to it … It almost feels improvised, it’s like slam poetry but with black metal oboe. This is definitely not going to be for everyone, but I love that weird, kind of obscure random stuff. This is all over the place, it feels improvised, I kind of like it like that, this is Disorientation, which is a perfect band name and title for this self-titled EP.” – Metal Trenches (2021 – Disorientation – EP)

“Canadian band Disorientation produces interesting music. Black/death metal ties with folk instruments and synths. The song Nature, in which the band decorated with plug-ins and acoustic passages and also used choir vocals, caught my attention. They released a three-track self-titled EP; It’s worth taking a look.” – Metal Perver (2021 – Disorientation – EP)

“… a little do-it-yourself project of dark low-fi symphonic metal with a little depressed folkloric side … it’s a pretty interesting little 3-piece EP … the album cover is also magnificent.” – Mtl Metal – CIBL 101.5 FM (2021 – Disorientation – EP)

[Download Single Cover | Download Single Lyrics]

Band: Disorientation
Single Title: The Pact – 7:17
Release Date:
Label: Self-Release
Genre: Extreme Dark Chamber Metal; Dark Experimental Metal
Location of Band: Montreal, QC, Canada

Single Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Disorientation
• All songs written by: Marie-Claude Fleury and Daniel Daris
• Produced by: Disorientation
• Mixed by: Hugues Deslauriers
• Mastered by: Hugues Deslauriers
• Single Artwork by: Marie-Claude Fleury
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Band Line Up:
Daniel Daris – Bass and Dirty Semi-Acoustic Rhythm Guitar
Marie-Claude Fleury – Lead and Backing Vocals, Oboe, and Noise
Laurent Bellemare – Drums and Backing vocals
Samuel Arseneau-Roy – Lead and Rhythm Guitar

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

About the Single Artwork:

Marie-Claude (vocals/oboe): The artwork represents the 2-edged sword aspect of alliances; the hands that willingly hold each other and at the same time are coerced into a union by the shackles.

About the Single (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

Marie-Claude (vocals/oboe): It starts with a noisy intro with the oboe coming from far away. The song starts at a fast pace, takes a break to introduce the meeting, and the first riff restarts. A brutal stop leads to a suspiciously quiet passage where secrets are exchanged, then a mid-tempo riff starts, exposing the truth about your own condition without any outside interference. You spend some time in that bubble, where you can even perceive some light through an acoustic passage, but the outside world you fled comes back with a vengeance through the reappearance of the 1st riff. A series of palm mutes backed by disturbing voices puts you on high alert, then keeps going at a steady pace: this is the crossroads where you have to make choices and decide on a direction. Which way do you go?

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

STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:
1. Marie-Claude, Samuel and Laurent are part of the Growlers Choir, and each one of us is in a different section: Marie-Claude does high-pitched vocals, Samuel has a mid-range, and Laurent does the deep low voices.
2. Samuel and Laurent have played together in a band named Basalte from 2015 to 2020.
3. Marie-Claude, Daniel and Samuel performed “Nature” and “Dark Side” during a semi-acoustic private show in 2024.

Photo Credit – Geneviève Racine

Disorientation is a Dark Experimental Metal band hailing from Montreal, Canada. Created by Marie-Claude Fleury and Daniel Daris in 2020, the band aims to create a raw, disconcerting sound driven by woodwind arrangements and vocals that range from harsh aggression to intimate vulnerability. Escaping rigid genre boundaries, Disorientation aims to create somber, discordant, yet memorable songs.

In the fall of 2021, Disorientation released its first EP, which was well-received online, albeit with minimal promotion. Metal Trenches called it “a perfect band name and title for this self-titled EP,” while Turkey’s Metalperver wrote that it was “Interesting music, worth checking out.” The songs got airplay on media such as Dark Metal Radio, Sewer Spewer, The Autopsy Report, No Name Radio, and MTL Metal.

Building on that sound, Disorientation began working on a follow-up EP, which they released in December 2023. Titled ‘Survival Mode’ and geared with an improved production, the band has pushed through with more of the elements setting them apart: unorthodox vocal lines and song structures; dissonant woodwind arrangements; straightforward brutality and distressing atmospheres. The three songs were described as « oddly fascinating » (Real Gone Rocks), « not resembling anything else » (Music Waves), and « madness bottled into just wonderfulness » (The Doorway to Zine).

Now armed with a full lineup, consisting of Samuel Arseneau-Roy (Spectral Wound, Basalte) and Laurent Bellemare (Chthe’ilist (live), Basalte, Sutrah), the band is now unleashing « The Pact ». As Disorientation morphs towards a complete unit, this new Single serves as a sign of things to come.

Discography:
2026 – The Pact – Single
2023 – Survival Mode – EP
2021 – Self-Titled – EP

0 SONS OF BUTCHER Fire Up The Grill w/ Video “Makin’ Bacon” From New EP “Skids” Out March 2026

February 20, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Sons of Butcher

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 20, 2026

SONS OF BUTCHER Fire Up The Grill w/ Video “Makin’ Bacon” From New EP “Skids” Out March 2026

L-R – Doug Borski – Bass/Vocals, Joey Salami – Guitar, Crissy Stixx – Drums, Ricky Butcher – Lead Vocals/Guitar

Photo Credit – Evan Thompson

Canada’s filthiest, funniest, and most fearlessly unwashed rock band, Sons of Butcher, return with “Skids”, a brand‑new four‑song EP due out in March 2026 to mark a fresh chapter in the band’s long, greasy legacy. After a decade‑long hiatus, the band behind Teletoon’s cult animated series is officially back in the butcher shop, with their most polished, unhinged, and radio‑ready material to date.

“This EP is an honest batch of comedy songs from the grease‑clogged hearts of a band of has‑been butchers,” says Ricky Butcher, lead vocals/guitar.

After releasing five full‑length albums and becoming infamous for spandex, pepperette‑throwing, and the roaming meat tray, the band stepped away until a reunion show reignited the flame. A photo from that night now serves as the EP’s cover art, capturing Ricky and Doug in a triumphant, full‑body rock pose that symbolized their return.

“Skids” is a raw, four‑track eruption of cheap‑meat swagger and skid‑life grit, marking Sons of Butcher’s first batch of songs not tied to their Teletoon storyline, aside from the fully overhauled “Peppercorn Steak,” revived from an indie pilot episode. Reuniting with longtime producer Jordon Zadorozny at Skylark Park and featuring drumming from Kellii Scott of Failure, the band carves out a sound that pushes their legacy forward while staying true to their cult‑favourite chaos. Across the EP, Sons of Butcher swing from the denim‑soaked bounce of “Denim Dreamin’” to the metal‑fired frenzy of lead single “Makin’ Bacon,” slide into the gritty pop‑rock swagger of “Steeltown Handy,” and land squarely back in classic SOB absurdity with the 80s‑riffed peppercorn‑obsessed anthem “Peppercorn Steak” (planned for release to be the band’s official anthem for National Steak Day on April 25th).

The EP’s lead single, “Makin’ Bacon,” is a high‑speed, metal‑tinged celebration of bacon worship. It’s chaotic, catchy, and quintessentially Sons of Butcher, shot out of a cannon and straight into your frontal lobe. The accompanying music video is a meaty, maximalist feast of absurdity, riff‑fueled energy, and pure mock‑rock spirit.

Watch the “Makin’ Bacon” video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lnsb7uWp4g

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/2xlPHi4gvvJ9BRnpZDQb7k

Sons of Butcher began as the real‑life incarnation of their animated Teletoon alter‑egos, blending absurdist comedy and heavy riffs into the proudly self‑made genre of mock rock. The band quickly grew beyond the cartoon, releasing five albums, one live album, and an EP, and has built a cult following through chaotic, spandex‑clad live shows and meat‑soaked theatrics. “Skids” marks their first major release since 2020’s “Lockdown In Steeltown” and their first collection of songs not directly tied to the original series’ storyline.

Recommended for fans of Tenacious D, Spinal Tap, Psychostick, and Steel Panther, “Skids” will be released on March 27th, 2026, and is available for CD pre-order at: https://sonsofbutcher.bandcamp.com/album/skids

Sons of Butcher will support the EP with a run of Spring 2026 tour dates, including five shows with Hamilton’s beloved skid‑icon B.A. Johnston.

Show Dates:
Feb 28 – The Parlour @ Ridiculous – Hamilton, ON – ‘Makin Bacon’ single release w/ Marty Topps
April 2 – Honey Dip – London, ON – opening for B. A. Johnston
April 3 – L’Hemisphere Gauche – Montreal, QC – opening for B. A. Johnston
April 4 – House of Targ – Ottawa, ON – opening for B. A. Johnston
April 17 – The Corktown – Hamilton, ON – opening for B. A. Johnston
April 18 – Baby G – Toronto, ON – opening for B. A. Johnston

Track Listing:
1. Denim Dreamin’ – (3:05)
2. Makin’ Bacon – (2:37)
3. Steeltown Handy – (2:21)
4. Peppercorn Steak – (1:42)

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Sons of Butcher
• All songs written by: Trevor Ziebarth
• Produced by: Jordon Zadorozny
• Mixed by: Jordon Zadorozny
• Mastered by: Bill Hendersen
• Album Artwork by: Jay Ziebarth, Randy Gilbert (front cover), Kidd Gloves Photography (back cover)
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

EP Line Up:
Ricky Butcher – Lead Vocals, Guitar
Doug Borski – Vocals, Bass
Kellii Scott – Drums
Jordon Zadorozny – Lead Guitar
Brandon Wars – Lead Guitar

Live Band Line Up:
Ricky Butcher – Vocals, Guitar
Doug Borski – Vocals, Bass
Crissy Stixx – Drums
Joey Salami – Lead Guitar

More Info:

https://www.sonsofbutcher.ca/

https://www.facebook.com/therealsobs

https://www.instagram.com/therealsobs/

-30-

“Lockdown In Steeltown is a cheeky account that belongs with all historical records, as a kind of sly reminder when the next pandemic hits. Although it should probably be kept in the same section with Spinal Tap, “Weird” Al Yankovic, and pretty much every Dr. Demento show. I give this EP two Purell-sanitized thumbs up!” – Boston Rock Radio (2020 – Lockdown in Steeltown)

“the EP manages to lift the spirits of one or another rock fan with heavy music and silly jokes when they’re feeling cooped up, it has fulfilled its purpose. In any case, we’re not going to let a virus ruin our good mood.” – PowerMetal.de (2020 – Lockdown in Steeltown)

“Thing is, if there’s a word or a sentiment that could sum up 2020 is there one better than “FUCK!”?. As such, this could well be the album of our times. Crank it up, grab a beer, laugh at the childishness of it all and let twenty minutes or so more of the damn year slip by forever.” – Moshville Times (2020 – Ricky Butcher – Fuck! The Album)

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
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0 “Becoming the Dragon” Power Metal Warriors SIEGE PERILOUS Unchain New Video For Title Track For Concept Album Out March 2026

February 19, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Siege Perilous

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 19, 2026

“Becoming the Dragon” Power Metal Warriors SIEGE PERILOUS Unchain New Video For Title Track For Concept Album Out March 2026

A narrative-driven punch of epic fantasy power metal featuring incredible guests like Fabio Lione and Kristin Starkey!

Left to Right: Mark Girard (Drums) | Eric Fischer (Bass) | Shaughnessy McDaniel (Vocals) | Ryan Flanagan (Guitar) | Scott Hancock (Guitar)

Photographer Credit – Gii Astorga

Colorado power‑metal storytellers Siege Perilous are unschackling the official music video for “Becoming the Dragon,” the climactic title track from their upcoming concept album “Becoming the Dragon,” due out March 27, 2026.

The new video marks the band’s most ambitious visual project to date, capturing the album’s central transformation moment, where the protagonist embraces destiny, defies cosmic fate, and ascends into mythic power. The track arrives as the band continues to build momentum following the release of their first single, “As the Dragon Falls” (feat. Fabio Lione).

“‘Becoming the Dragon’ forms the critical climax of the story of our album. We wanted to capture something beyond just fantasy; it’s about defying fate, defying the stars, and embracing the power within. There are moments in life where we either transform or perish, and this song embodies that choice. It’s the moment our hero unlocks the true power inside him, and we think the track shows that transformation expertly,” says vocalist Shaughnessy McDaniel.

The song features thunderous drums, soaring vocals, shredding solos, and a standout bass interlude that drives the track toward its explosive finale. Musically, it represents the band’s evolution into a more cinematic, orchestrated, and emotionally charged sound.

Watch and listen to the music video “Becoming the Dragon” via its premiere on Metal Insider HERE.

A sweeping ten‑chapter concept record, “Becoming the Dragon” follows the “Child of Prophecy” through destiny, denial, destruction, and ultimately transcendence. The album blends classic heavy metal roots with modern symphonic power metal, drawing influence from Blind Guardian, Rhapsody, Iron Maiden, Avantasia, and Sabaton.

The record features guest performances from two major voices in modern power metal, Fabio Lione (Rhapsody, Angra) on “As the Dragon Falls”, and Kristin Starkey (Twilight Force, Temperance) on the power ballad “Echoes of Home”.

“Creating a massive, sweeping power‑metal epic has been a dream since before we even formed this band. Having Fabio and Kristin join us, two artists who inspired us long before Siege Perilous existed, is beyond anything we imagined when we started this project four years ago,” says McDaniel.

Forged in Colorado’s fantasy‑driven LARP community, Siege Perilous formed after McDaniel, guitarist Scott Hancock, and drummer Mark Girard were inspired by a 2021 Unleash the Archers show in Denver. Joined by bassist Eric Fischer (The Stubby Shillelaghs) and later guitarist/arranger Ryan Flanagan, the band has built a reputation for crafting epic, story‑driven metal that blends myth, history, and cinematic world‑building.

Their sound, described in five words as Epic, Melodic, Powerful, Cinematic, Story‑Driven, has evolved through collaborative songwriting, theatrical live performances, and a commitment to narrative‑focused metal.

Recommended for fans of Wind Rose, Hammerfall, Sabaton, Blind Guardian, and Iron Maiden, “Becoming the Dragon” is due out on March 27, 2026 and available for pre-order / pre-save at the following link:

https://siegemetal.bandcamp.com/album/becoming-the-dragon

First Single: “As the Dragon Falls” ft. Fabio Lione

Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzMIMvm4wvY

Add to your Spotify Playlist – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/siegeperilous/as-the-dragon-falls-feat-fabio-lione

Track Listing:
1. Overture (Instrumental) – (2:37)
2. Ancient Rite – (4:37)
3. As the Dragon Falls (feat. Fabio Lione) – (4:33)
4. Child of Prophecy – (4:05)
5. Shattered Mirage – (4:07)
6. Chieftain – (4:03)
7. Cut Down – (3:01)
8. Echoes of Home (feat. Kristin Starkey) – (4:48)
9. Becoming the Dragon – (5:09)
10. Eschaton – (7:50)
Album Length: 44:54

More info: Siegemetal.com | Facebook.com/siegeband | Instagram.com/siegeperilousmetal | Tiktok.com/@siegemetal

About:

Siege Perilous is a Colorado‑based power metal band specializing in epic, cinematic storytelling through music. Formed by Shaughnessy McDaniel (vocals), Scott Hancock (guitar), and Mark Girard (drums)—later joined by Eric Fischer (bass) and Ryan Flanagan (guitar/arrangements), the band draws from fantasy, history, and myth to craft immersive metal narratives. Their debut album, Becoming the Dragon, arrives March 27, 2026.

-30-

“It gives me great pleasure to tell you that Creation’s Call is a blast. Siege Perilous has succeeded in creating what I would call Epic Power Metal for the Working Man. They don’t waste your time with overlong symphonic interludes between tracks, melodramatic narration, or overproduction that tests the limits of your sanity. The band gets right to the point and pulls you into their epic tales of heroic daring immediately. This is a nice breath of fresh air and if this EP is anything to go by, Siege Perilous has a great future ahead of them. Yes, this could be considered power metal but the no-nonsense approach and urgency to the songwriting makes this release absolutely worth checking out for those of us in the NWOTHM scene. Plus, it’s really just a lot of fun. This one is highly recommended. THENWOTHM SCORE: 9/10” – The NWOTHM

“‘Creation’s Call’ never gets boring, even on Heavy Rotation. Five gifted musicians have succeeded in creating a varied EP. The twin guitar solos are convincing the whole time. It’s just a shame that it ends after twenty-one minutes. It makes you wish for a full-length album. And, of course, a thrilling live performance. 9.3/10” – Metalheads Forever Magazine

“solid power metal style that should satiate any LARP-attendees or Dungeons and Dragons mavens. Keep an eye on this quintet – wield thy sword as they lead the battle charge for more quality power metal from the states. 8/10” – Dead Rhetoric

“There are any number of quality bands like Siege Perilous active right now but the style is popular (and I love it) and these guys are as decent as the next similar act. They lean more the Metal side of the equation using the folk and orchestral moments as flavour, not the main style. CREATION’S CALL is a fine effort and I could easily see them on tour with Brothers Of Metal, All For Metal, Fellowship and other costumed Metal heroes. Worth checking out!” 4/5 – Metal Rules

“Denver metal mob reckon that their goal on “Creation’s Call” was to build a world and tell a story in “three to five minutes.” It’s a world of fantasy, as “Oathsworn” proves, where metal rules and swords are held high. “Across The Rubicon,” however, is delivered with such skill that you can’t resist getting sucked in with them. Shaughnessy McDaniel has a brilliant “metal” voice, roaring on “Sons Of The Verdant,” and guitar duo Scott Hancock and Cody Martinez can knock out a NWOBHM riff like it’s 1982, as the title song underlines. “Brothers Of Five” brings the epic one last time, galloping in proper fashion, and it’ll be interesting to see how Siege Perilous develops. This is one hell of an opening statement, mind you. 8.5/10” – Maximum Volume Music

“Creation’s Call not only highlights Siege Perilous’ dedication to epic storytelling but also emphasises their versatility within the power metal genre. With influences ranging from historical events to high fantasy, this EP offers a rich and varied auditory experience that will captivate fans. Prepare to embark on a grand journey through myth and history as Siege Perilous delivers their latest saga.” – Amplify The Noise

“Creation’s Call it is a cohesive and well-crafted work, where the combination of rich letters in history and fantasy, with a meticulous musical execution, it makes mandatory, regardless of its short duration. [82%]” – Via Nocturna

“Creation’s Call doesn’t get boring even in heavy rotation. Five gifted musicians have created a varied EP. The solos of the twin guitars are convincing across the board. It’s just a shame that it’s over after twenty-one minutes. You want a full-length album. And of course a sweaty live performance. 9.4/10” – Keep On Rocking

“Colorfully mixed NWOTHM/Epic Heavy/Power Metal elixir that appeals to a broad range of fans between ALESTORM, BATTLEROAR, ETERNAL CHAMPION, GATEKEEPER, IRON MAIDEN, RUNNING WILD and WRATHBLADE. Awakens a huge appetite for a full long-play album. On this EP you can clearly see that the band has enormous potential and has already given a great taste of their skills. Conclusion: Strong-looking genretobak that falls out of the usual range! 8,5/10” – FFM-Rock

““Oathsworn” simply explodes out of the gate. The band ratchets every possible dial up to 11 and charges into battle with an epic statement of intent.” – Nine Circles

““Brothers Of The Five” offers classic power metal as you would appreciate it. The strain on the neck muscles is correspondingly high and in some places the number cannot deny a slight Maiden stable smell.” – Hellfire Magazin

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
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0 Quebec’s HOPELESS NATION Remerges Amid The World Chaos To Unleash New Video “Disaster”

February 19, 2026
by Asher
· Hopeless Nation · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 19, 2026

Quebec’s HOPELESS NATION Remerges Amid The World Chaos To Unleash New Video “Disaster”

From left to right: Karl Héroux Rella (Bass), Louis-Simon Bellerose (Lead Guitar), Frederic Marchand (Vocals), Steve DC (Drums), Guy Provencher (Rhythm Guitar)

Photo Credit: @willodoescontent

Quebec metal/hardcore veterans Hopeless Nation erupt into 2026 with the release of their explosive new single “Disaster”, accompanied by a gripping cinematic music video. The track marks the band’s most intense and precise work to date, blending their hardcore roots with modern metal atmosphere and emotionally charged storytelling.

Formed in 1998 and revitalized after a decade-long hiatus, Hopeless Nation has re-emerged as a powerful force in heavy music. Their 2025 comeback single “Silverspoon” premiered on Hardcore Worldwide (HCWW), earning them accolades from fans new and old. With renewed momentum, the band now pushes further with “Disaster,” the first in a series of new releases leading into an EP.

“Disaster” plunges listeners into a world on the brink, cities in ruin, humanity under pressure, and the search for hope amid destruction. Musically, the track delivers crushing riffs, relentless rhythms, and raw vocals that mirror the urgency of a live performance. The accompanying video amplifies the narrative: band members move through collapsing environments as firefighters, first responders, and civilians, navigating danger and fleeting moments of courage. Flickers of resilience cut through the chaos, creating a visual experience that is both cinematic and deeply human.

“We’re thrilled to release Disaster and the upcoming singles. These songs are a mix of energy, reflection, and raw honesty, and we couldn’t have done it without the incredible people around us,” adds the band.

The band highlights the contributions of engineer Francis Perron (RadicArt), known for his work with Voïvod, whose production elevated the music to new heights. They also pay tribute to former members Jonathan Houle and Maxime Dupont, whose years of musicianship helped shape Hopeless Nation’s identity.

“These releases are our way of honoring their legacy,” says the band.

Hopeless Nation’s sound has transformed from fast, raw hardcore into a heavier, more dynamic form of modern metal. Their influences span All Out War, ZAO, Gojira, Darkest Hour, Turnstile, and more, resulting in music that is cinematic, explosive, aggressive, intense, and evolving.

The writing process remains collaborative and deliberate. Lead guitarist Louis‑Simon Bellerose and the rhythm section spark ideas through riffs and melodies, while arrangements and breakdowns are shaped collectively.

“Every song gets the time it needs. We don’t rush. The goal is impact, not quantity,” adds the band.

Members Steve DC (drums) and Guy Provencher (rhythm guitar) also perform with Strigampire, winners of the 2023 Wacken Metal Battle Canada, representing the country at Wacken Open Air (Live Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RCPWXKf7RA). Collectively, Hopeless Nation’s members have played more than 200 shows, sharing stages with Despised Icon, 100 Demons, Bane, With Honor, Lofofora, and many more.

“Disaster” is the second of many more singles leading into a new EP. These tracks revisit and reimagine material from the band’s 2014 archives, refined with modern precision while preserving the raw hooks and intensity that define Hopeless Nation.

Watch and listen to the music video for “Disaster” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdSXUtJwjaU

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/artist/4DHSU9qBA5i8Fzs0yLI6b7

More info: https://www.instagram.com/hopelessnation_official | https://www.facebook.com/hopelessnation

-30-

“Cette pièce immédiate, dense et agressive frappe dès la première seconde et se démarque par son intensité, ses couches sonores riches et ses refrains plus mélodiques, ouvrant le groupe à un public plus large tout en restant fidèle à son essence.” – Metal Universe (2025 – Silverspoon – Single)

“Hopeless Nation’s Silverspoon is featured on Exclaim!’s Weekly Playlist, highlighting the band among Canada’s notable new releases.” (2025 – Silverspoon – Single)

“I won’t lie to you and say I couldn’t wait to see the return of HOPELESS NATION. Their ten years of absence will have been far too long, having left their mark on the Trois-Rivières hardcore/metal scene from 1998 to 2014. Although many of their fans seemed absent (probably due to age), those from the first hours who were there as well as those who discovered the band for the first time were not disappointed. Fred, the singer, did not lose his enthusiasm at the time and his interaction with the public was impeccable. When we say that music is a story of passion, their performance was proof of that. HOPELESS NATION delivered a performance without artifice, rooted in a hardcore and metal heritage old school too often put aside these days.” – Chicks Rock Media – TROIS-RIVIÈRES METALFEST (2024)

“Invigorated by the arrival of new blood, Hopeless Nation channeled all this newfound energy into Built from Scratch, an album propelled by “the rage to start playing again”, to use the expression used by Maxime. Made with Francis Perron at Studio Radicart, the record marks a new stage in the journey of the group which, with 10 years of career behind its belt, is surely one of the deans of the Trois-Rivières metal scene. ” – Voir (2009)

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media Relations
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0 EPK – Hopeless Nation – Disaster (2026) (single)

February 19, 2026
by Asher
· EPKs · Hopeless Nation

EPK – Hopeless Nation – Disaster (2026)

Band: Hopeless Nation
Single Title: Disaster – 4:42
Release Date: February 20, 2026
Label: Provocant Media

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

“We’re thrilled to finally release ‘Disaster’ and the upcoming singles. These songs are a mix of energy, reflection, and raw honesty, and we couldn’t have done it without the incredible people around us. Francis Perron at RadicArt brought his mastery as an engineer, working with someone of his caliber, known for Voïvod, pushed the music to a whole new level. Jonathan Houle and Maxime Dupont’s contributions over the years, on bass, guitar, and rhythm, laid the foundation for everything we do, and these releases are our way of honoring that legacy.” – Hopeless Nation

For fans of Gojira, Darkest Hour, At the Gates, Lamb of God, Zao

Instagram.com/hopelessnation_official | Facebook.com/hopelessnation

Spotify | Hopelessnation.bandcamp.com | Apple Music

“Hopeless Nation’s Silverspoon is featured on Exclaim!’s Weekly Playlist, highlighting the band among Canada’s notable new releases.” (2025 – Silverspoon – Single)

[Download Single Cover | Download Single Lyrics]

Band: Hopeless Nation
Single Title: Disaster – 4:42
Release Date: February 20, 2026
Label: Provocant Media
Location: Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
Genre: Hardcore Groove Metal

Single Credits:
– All songs performed by: Hopeless Nation (Frédéric Marchand – Vocals; Louis-Simon Bellerose – Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals; Guy Provencher – Rhythm Guitar; Karl Héroux Rella – Bass; Steve DC – Drums, Backing Vocals)
– All songs written by: Frederic Marchand (lyrics), Louis-Simon Bellerose, Maxime Dupont, Jonathan Houle, Steve DC (music).
– Produced by: Jonathan Houle, in collaboration with Frederic Bujold and Francis Perron (RadicArt)
– Mixed by: Francis Perron (RadicArt)
– Mastered by: Francis Perron (RadicArt)
– Single Artwork by: Concept by Hopeless Nation/design adaptation by Frederic Marchand, AI artwork
– Canadian Content (MAPL)

Recording Band Line Up:
Frédéric Marchand – Vocals
Louis-Simon Bellerose – Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals
Jonathan Houle, Maxime Dupont – Rhythm Guitar
Jonathan Houle, Karl Héroux Rella – Bass
Steve DC – Drums, Backing Vocals

Live Band Line Up:
Frédéric Marchand – Vocals
Louis-Simon Bellerose – Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals
Guy Provencher – Rhythm Guitar
Karl Héroux Rella – Bass
Steve DC – Drums, Backing Vocals

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

About The Single Artwork:

The artwork showcases a hand-painted forest in flames, with birds fleeing the inferno, and a massive wave crashing against the burning coastline.

This striking imagery mirrors the intensity and chaos of the Disaster narrative, highlighting destruction, human vulnerability, and the unstoppable force of nature. It complements the cinematic video, reinforcing themes of resilience, survival, and humanity’s fragile relationship with the planet.

About the Single (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

“Disaster” plunges listeners into chaos and resilience, with lyrics depicting cities in ruin, suffering, and the search for hope. Musically, crushing riffs, relentless rhythms, and raw vocals mirror the tension and urgency of live performance, creating a visceral, socially aware, and intense listening experience.

The Disaster video weaves high-energy live performance with fleeting, chaotic glimpses of a world unraveling. Band members move through the ruins as firefighters, first responders, and civilians, navigating moments of peril and quiet courage. Shadows of destruction and flickers of resilience collide, leaving viewers suspended between tension and reflection, where raw energy meets the fragile pulse of humanity.

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

Fun Facts – Story Angles:

1. Reunion & Grind:
After nearly a decade of silence, Hopeless Nation reunited in summer 2024, revisiting unrecorded 2014 material. 2026 will bring a rapid succession of new singles and videos, with live performances expanding the music experience across nations and delivering full-force, raw energy to fans.

2. Live Meets Storytelling:
In the video, the band takes on heroic roles amid chaos, confronting global crises from natural disasters to humanity’s impact on the planet. Live performance from their first comeback show merges with AI-generated visuals, creating a cinematic spectacle that captures raw, unpredictable disaster moments and immerses viewers in tension and survival.

3. Scene Credibility:
The members are deeply rooted in the Quebec hardcore and metal scene. Louis-Simon leads punk hardcore legends Genetic Error, while Steve DC and Guy Provencher represented Canada in Europe after winning the Wacken Battle of the Bands with Strigampire in 2024.

Over 1000 live shows under their belt — all members combined — prove their relentless commitment to the scene.

4. Live Performance Rituals:
Hopeless Nation delivers sweat-soaked, high-octane shows with no backing tracks, pure lamp-amp sound, and full crowd interaction. Their 2025 shows drew strong attention, fueling brighter opportunities and raw-energy performances for an ambitious 2026.

5. Legacy & Homage:
Many of the new singles are a tribute to past members Jonathan Houle (bass & guitar, 2012–2014, 2024) and Maxime Dupont (rhythm guitar, 1998–2014). Their contributions helped shape the band’s sound, and these releases honor their talent and dedication.

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

L-R: Karl Héroux Rella (Bass), Louis-Simon Bellerose (Lead Guitar), Frederic Marchand (Vocals), Steve DC (Drums), Guy Provencher (Rhythm Guitar)

Photo Credit: @willodoescontent

Explosive. Raw. Heavy. Unique. Relentless. These five words define the sound and the spirit of Hopeless Nation, a metal/hardcore hybrid forged in the fires of punk rebellion and refined through decades of evolution.

Formed in 1998 by a group of friends drawn to the urgency of bands like Ten Foot Pole and Strung Out, Hopeless Nation quickly carved out a name in Quebec’s underground scene. As their musical tastes grew darker and heavier, so did their sound, absorbing the aggression of All Out War, ZAO, and Madball, and later the technical ferocity of Gojira, Lamb of God, and Darkest Hour. The result: a signature blend of hardcore grit and modern metal precision, delivered with unfiltered emotion and pit-ready intensity.

Their 2009 album Built from Scratch marked a high point in their early career, backed by over 200 shows and shared stages with heavyweights like 100 Demons, Bane, With Honor, Lofofora, and Despised Icon. Known for their sweat-drenched, no-backing-tracks live shows, Hopeless Nation became a staple at venues like Montreal’s Foufounes Électriques and Trois-Rivières Metalfest.

After a hiatus, the band returns in 2025 with renewed fire and a sharpened edge set to unleash a series of singles that are a sonic gut-punch, layered, immediate, and aggressive, yet open enough for clean vocals and hooks that stick. The singles are mixed and mastered by Francis Perron (Voïvod) at RadicArt, and they bridge the band’s hardcore roots with a modern metal sheen, setting the tone for an upcoming EP.

Hopeless Nation’s writing process is collaborative and deliberate. Lead guitarist Louis-Simon Bellerose crafts the riffs, while drummer Steve DC, bassist Karl, and rhythm guitarist Guy Provencher (also of Strigampire, Wacken Metal Battle Canada winners) bring the groove. Vocalist Frédéric pens lyrics that cut deep—tackling themes of inequality, privilege, personal struggle, and societal decay with honesty and urgency.

With over two decades of evolution behind them, Hopeless Nation stands as a testament to the enduring power of heavy music. Their sound has matured, but their mission remains the same: to move bodies, challenge minds, and leave everything on the stage.

Discography:
2026 – Disaster – Single
2025 – Silverspoon – Single
2009 – Built from Scratch – Album
2004 – Our Mistakes – EP (Galy Records)
2002 – World of Hate – Album

Tours and Festivals:
2025 – Mini-Tour, with The Almighty Trigger Happy, Québec, Trois-Rivières, Montréal, QC
2025 – Super Sugoi Tour, with Within Destruction – Montréal, QC
2024 – Trois-Rivières Metalfest, with Feels Like Home – Trois-Rivières, QC
2012 – Maquisart, with Despised Icon – Trois-Rivières, QC
2009 – Bloodfest, with 100 Demons, Toronto, ON
2009 – Bloodfest, with 100 Demons, Montréal, QC

Shared Stage with:
Despised Icon
Within Destruction
100 Demons
Unearth
Bane
With Honor
Kalmah
Lofofora
L’Esprit Du Clan
A Perfect Murder
Insurrection
Burning The Oppressor
Mass Murder Messiah
A Death For Every Sin
Buried Inside
Spelldown

0 Gore House Prod. – ONCHOCERCIASIS ESOPHAGOGASTRODUODENOSCOPY Unleashes Single “Hurt Beyond Healing” From New Album “Fugue Gnawed from the Scabbed God Cerebrum”

February 19, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Onchocerciasis Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (Gore House Productions)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 19, 2026

ONCHOCERCIASIS ESOPHAGOGASTRODUODENOSCOPY Unleashes Single “Hurt Beyond Healing”

New Album “Fugue Gnawed from the Scabbed God Cerebrum” Out April 2026 via Gore House Productions

L – R – The Popuko – Guitars, Drums, Bass, Backing Vocals, Alice Simard – Guitars, Drums, Jesse Agiomamitis – Vocals

Apocalyptic death metal entity Onchocerciasis Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (OxE) has announced the release of “Hurt Beyond Healing,” the first single from their upcoming full‑length album “Fugue Gnawed from the Scabbed God Cerebrum,” out April 3, 2026, through Gore House Productions.

The track marks the beginning of a new era for the multinational trio, Canadian guitarist Alice Simard, Australian vocalist Jesse Agiomamitis, and German multi‑instrumentalist Popu, whose sound has evolved from raw goregrind origins into something far more calculated, dissonant, and otherworldly.

“We chose Hurt Beyond Healing because it’s one of the more straightforward tracks on the record. It still carries our weirder elements, but it gives listeners a taste of the brutality before the rest of the LP throws them into far stranger territory,” says vocalist Jesse Agiomamitis.

Listen to “Hurt Beyond Healing” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BB-fAVXSSGE

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/67zmkZcB3tOdb3RUcUFmww

“Fugue Gnawed from the Scabbed God Cerebrum” is OxE’s most ambitious and punishing work to date, a labyrinth of warped synths, alien textures, and meticulously crafted brutality. Musically, the album pushes the band deeper into experimental territory, drawing inspiration from releases such as Nithing’s “Agonal Hymns” and Dripping’s “Disintegration of Thought Patterns During A Synthetic Mind Traveling Bliss.”

“The LP is definitely the most experimental OxE release so far. Between the carnage of the main instrumentals are layers of synths and organic instrumentation that have been sonically destroyed to give everything an alien feel,” says Popu.

Lyrically, the album follows a cryptic conceptual arc centered around a mythic “godslayer” figure, an entity on a cosmic, God‑of‑War‑esque rampage through the universe. The narrative mirrors the album’s emotional core: cold, calculated violence intertwined with themes of mental illness, mythological annihilation, and existential dread.

For the album’s artwork, the band once again collaborated with acclaimed artist Mei Maro, whose surreal, folklore‑infused style visually captures the album’s fusion of myth, brutality, and psychological distortion.

“We wanted something that represented all of our combined influences. Mei always delivers something incredible, and this piece ties together everything we explored on the record,” adds the band.

The album’s eleven songs carve out a relentless and disorienting sonic journey. It opens with “Conquering Divinity,” a chaotic, myth‑laden assault designed to immediately destabilize the listener. “Gutted & Corpsed” delivers ferocious blasting, inhuman vocal textures, and a plunge into an underworld‑like atmosphere. “Heaven’s Empty Halls” shifts into eerie, dungeon‑synth‑infused territory, setting the stage for the album’s final descent. The closer, “Forged in the Blackest Reaches of Blasphemy,” ties the record together with a melodic yet brutal homage to the band’s key influences. Across the journey, from the twisted melodicism of “Apotheotic Apotemnophilia” to the crushing weight of “Entombed Within the Infinite Panopticon,” the album balances experimentation with the visceral heaviness fans expect.

“With this album, we’ve done what we’ve always done, simply better. We don’t want to stray too far from our original DNA, from what makes the band who we are, but there’s always going to be progression in some direction. This record marks our longest gap between releases, which isn’t something we had in mind, but great art can’t be rushed out the door, and while it may have taken some time to materialize, I’m certain that this record will be everything fans have wanted and then some, because it certainly was for us. Each album is a learning process, and I feel as though these new tracks we’ve got, more than anything else we’ve made, have taught us invaluable lessons about who we are as people, and just how much we love music and the creative process,” says vocalist Jesse.

Formed in Quebec City, OxE began as a solo project by guitarist Alice Simard, who sought to explore heavier, more grotesque sonic territory. After recruiting vocalist Jesse Agiomamitis in 2019 and later joining forces with German musician Popu, the project evolved into a fully collaborative, internationally connected force.

Their sound, described by the band as Inhuman, Unnerving, Calculated, Chaotic, Apocalyptic, draws from brutal death metal, black metal, avant‑garde experimentation, and a wide range of non‑musical influences, including Dark Souls, NieR, Berserk, Evangelion, and global mythology.

For Fans of Deathspell Omega, Disentomb, Artificial Brain, First Fragment, Disgorge, and Ulcerate, OxE’s “Fugue Gnawed from the Scabbed God Cerebrum” is available on CD, Cassette, and digitally from Stillbirth Records / Gore House Productions at https://orcd.co/scabbed-god-cerebrum

Track Listing:
1. Conquering Divinity – 3:17
2. The Fallen Lament, Paralytikus Ascends – 1:21
3. Severing What Makes Me Human – 2:41
4. Apotheotic Apotemnophilia – 3:03
5. Entombed Within the Infinite Panopticon – 2:23
6. Gutted & Corpsed – 3:05
7. Heaven’s Empty Halls – 5:13
8. Hurt Beyond Healing – 2:33
9. Abyssikataplexika – 2:35
10. Vile Verses Flogged into the Wings of Angels – 1:23
11. Forged in the Blackest Reaches of Blasphemy – 4:58
Album Length: 32:32

ROLES:
Jesse Agiomamitis: Vocals, Lyrics
Alice Simard: Composition, Guitars, Lead Guitars
The Popu: Additional Songwriting, Mixing and Mastering, Guitars, Bass, Orchestration and Sound Design, Additional lyrics, Additional Vocals

More info:

https://gorehouseproductions.com/

https://www.facebook.com/OnchoOfficial

https://www.instagram.com/onchocerciasis_official

-30-

“It’s brutal as fuck, but it’s also explores the entire bouquet of sick creativity extreme music has to offer. The Fallen Lament is fun. It’s violent and it loves to blur boundaries between already scummy, disgusting genres.” – Vox & Hops Metal Podcast (The Fall Lament – 2024)

“This EP is definitely for the lovers of the extreme – fans of Deathspell Omega, Defeated Sanity, and Ulcerate will dig the fuck out of this record. So will fans of Dehumanizing Itatrian Worship, whose Kiryu Zhang contributes vocals on the last track of the EP, ‘Facial Gutting’. 9/10” – Ever Metal (The Fall Lament – 2024)

“The tracks revolve around blast beats and slams with some truly impressive breakdowns on display. Lyrics are themed around many different influences including mental health issues that have plagued the bands members, anime and video games making for an interesting read. In essence this EP provides a really promising preview of things to come for this band, who have the potential based on this evidence of creating something special.” – The Razor’s Edge (The Fall Lament – 2024)

“OxE are a different beast, very heavy and extreme but different to most bands of this ilk. The best way to describe them would be like Mortician, but with slam riffs! They have that downtuned bass that trawls the depths of hell with its tone and razor-sharp guitars, frantic programmed drums and some seriously deranged vocals. The tracks are short and sweet, the whole EP only goes on for ten minutes twenty one secs but in that time, you feel so bludgeoned and battered listening to it that it feels much longer, almost like you are succumbing to some exquisite torture!| – The Razor’s Edge (The Fall Lament – 2024)

“What’s cool here is when the music slows down almost to a crawl and sounds creepy as fuck, with a horror/suspense-like feeling that’s not without reminding me of some of the most disgusting episodes of the X-Files when they had some kind of monster eating its victims or what have you, and you can probably throw in a few horror B-movies in there as well. The Fallen Lament is kind of chaotic and dissonant and certainly sets itself apart in the sea of brutal death metal releases out there. 4/5” – The MetalCrypt (The Fall Lament – 2024)

“primal and brutal variety of dramatic and booming extreme metal ” – The Viking in the Wilderness (The Fall Lament – 2024)

“Brutal gore death grind metal with pig squeally vox” – 89.9 WORT FM – The Moshpit (Madison, WI) (The Fall Lament – 2024)

“It’s been a long time since I heard anything like this mentioned, and the truth is that I haven’t been disappointed. Those from Canada bring us the best formula to execute it. This is based on being as heavy as they are fluid, without giving up the occasional surprise in the form of extra convolutions, which, by the way, fits like a glove. I was extremely grateful that they didn’t focus on composing ultra-heavy and simplistic «ruido» with little direction twist like many others do, reminding us once again that Slam can be rich in nuances within its borders.” – Broken Tomb (The Fall Lament – 2024)

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