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0 EPK – DieveNoire – The Story of a Gunslinger (2025)

May 31, 2026
by Asher
· Dieve Noire · EPKs

EPK – DieveNoire – The Story of a Gunslinger (2025)

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

“As a newly formed idea which started in Lariyah’s head without an exact direction, but a large collection of content to create this album into a concept of a gunslinger’s journey, in a very basic old school blues rock way, with a touch of southern gothic feel to it. After encountering Jakob Herrmann, a very well-known and accomplished producer from Gothenburg, Sweden, the demos have been reworked and encouraged to incorporate heavier sounds. Quite proper of a move for the involved musicians’ preferences”. – Dieve Noire

For fans of Clutch, Dorothy, Everybody Loves an Outlaw, Pretty Reckless, Halestorm

DieveNoire.com | Facebook.com/dievenoire | Youtube.com/@DieveNoire/videos | Instagram.com/dievenoire

Dievenoire.bandcamp.com | Spotify | Apple Music

“The nostalgic whistles, the storytelling approach of singer Lariyah Perrin, and the overall atmosphere of the song take the listener on a hypnotic journey. The song is the band’s third track before they drop their new album, which already seems like it will be a feast for the ears. Pushing the repeat button is the only way when the highly engaging, beautiful song ends.” – New Noise Magazine

“It may be true that Lariyah’s personal and dramatic story pushed her to see life from a somewhat different perspective. Her dark words, at times, attest to this. Through the darkness of West American history, is this some kind of introspection on her part? I will conclude by writing that this album is the result of a fusion of dark blues rock and Southern-gothic rock, carried by an expressive voice, powerful guitars, and a universe where the Wild West meets shadow and rebellion. For this album, 9/10 is essential.” – Rock Meeting

If DieveNoire should be recognised as anything, it should be as an unreckonable cultural force, wielding music as a conduit for their ethos, one that scratches beneath the superficial and strikes at the cerebral. Their latest seminal single, IDGAF, delivers an intimately candid rum-soaked vignette of a soul clawing for freedom through the rebellion of living authentically, sacrilegiously in the eyes of many, yet chasing redemption through defiant selfhood.” – A&R Factory (anrfactory.com)

“Hailing from Elgin, IL DieveNoire is a Dark Blues Rock Band that started from the vision and creation of Lariyah Perrin. Originally, this new endeavor was intended as a solo project. However, after the overwhelmingly positive reception of her debut single, “Gunslinger in Black,” Lariyah decided to form a full five-member, stage-ready band. Since a young age, Lariyah was exposed to none other than Johnny Cash, a key influence. Combining her Slavic roots, which are evident in her vocal style and songwriting with a newfound passion for blues and southern gothic rock, Lariyah began work on the band’s debut album, “The Story of a Gunslinger.”” WGN Channel 9 (Chicago)

Album Title: ‘The Story of a Gunslinger”
Release Date: Sept 5, 2025
Label: Self-Release
Genre: Bluesy Heavy Rock
Location of Band: Illinois/North Carolina

Track Listing:
1. Preacher – 3:36
2. To The Gallows – 3:43
3. Gunslinger in Black – 2:44
4. Streets of New Orleans – 5:04
5. The Graveyard Song – 4:04
6. Morning Star – 4:00
7. These Boots Are Made for Walkin’ – 3:48
8. Spell of White Oleander – 4:55
9. Throughout the Night – 3:28
10. IDGAF – 4:24
Album Length: 39:50

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Lariyah Perrin, Lothar Keller, Jakob Herrmann, Jonas Ekdahl
• All songs written by: Lariyah Perrin, Lothar Keller, Jakob Herrmann
• Produced by: Jakob Herrmann (Top Floor Studios, Gothenburg, Sweden)
• Mixed by: Jakob Herrmann (Top Floor Studios, Gothenburg, Sweden)
• Mastered by: Jakob Herrmann (Top Floor Studios, Gothenburg, Sweden)
• Album Artwork by: Lariyah Perrin

SONG CREDITS:
1. Preacher – songwriting: Lariyah Perrin, Jakob Herrmann, Lothar Keller
2. To The Gallows – songwriting: Lariyah Perrin, Jakob Herrmann, Lothar Keller
3. Gunslinger In Black – songwriting: Lariyah Perrin
4. Streets of New Orleans – songwriting: Lariyah Perrin, Jakob Herrmann, Lothar Keller
5. The Graveyard Song – songwriting: Lariyah Perrin, Jakob Herrmann, Lothar Keller
6. Morning Star – songwriting: Lariyah Perrin, Lothar Keller
7. These Boots Are Made For Walkin’ – songwriting: Lariyah Perrin, Jakob Herrmann, Erik Michael
8. Spell of White Oleander – songwriting: Lariyah Perrin, Jakob Herrmann, Lothar Keller
9. Throughout The Night – songwriting: Lariyah Perrin, Jakob Herrmann, Lothar Keller
10. IDGAF – songwriting: Lariyah Perrin, Jakob Herrmann, Lothar Keller

Album Band Line Up:
Lariyah Perrin – Vocals
Lothar Keller – Lead guitars
Josh Perrin – Rhythm guitars
Aaron Esquitin – Drums

Live Band Line Up:
Lariyah Perrin – Vocals
Lothar Keller – Lead Guitars
Josh Perrin – Rhythm Guitars
Aaron Esquitin – Drums
Paul McBride – Bass (joined the band fully after the album release)

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About the Album Artwork:

The album artwork was hand drawn ink ink pencil by the vocalist, Lariyah. The idea was to bring out the tree representing the roots of the beginnings and dead branches, which signify growth with the dead soul, rotten by the world. The wings and snake in the middle are actually a drawing depiction of Lariyah’s motorcycle’s sissy bar, which is made out of steel by a Finnish forge master, as shown in the music video of “These Boots Are Made For Walkin’ “, a cover of Nancy Sinatra.

About the album (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

DieveNoire’s debut album, The Story of a Gunslinger, takes the listener back to an old-style New West, with most of the songs portraying the journey of an outlaw. Each song is styled appropriately to fit its narrative.

The introduction begins with the tribal and simplistically written “Gunslinger in Black,” which continues into “The Spell of White Oleander,” carrying on the story introduced in the previous track. The album fluctuates between energetic, driving songs, emotional ballads, and engaging chant-driven tunes, all while telling the story of the Gunslinger’s travels and his eventual death-row tale, from which he ultimately escapes.

Within the lyrics, there is also his admirer, who follows in his footsteps while being secretly watched over by him in disguise. The character of the Gunslinger eventually becomes a metaphorical and imaginary journey experienced by the woman herself.

The album’s tracks are intentionally not arranged in chronological order, prompting the listener to create their own interpretation of the story, visually set in an old-world landscape filled with bullets, alcohol, and the pursuit of a wanted outlaw who constantly challenges the law.

Track by Track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

1. Preacher – Gunslinger’s Story Part 5

The most dynamic and fastest track on the album, “Preacher,” opens the record by immediately throwing the listener into the middle of the Gunslinger’s story, leaving no doubt about the blasphemous direction of the album. A woman chasing the outlaw encounters a priest who invites her into a church, a decision that later proves to be his own mistake.

Musically, the song is a driving rock ’n’ roll creation with rhythms reminiscent of 1970s rock, but delivered with a modern heavy-rock approach. Chugging guitar riffs and powerful, rhythmic drums make it a simple yet effective anthem. This song depicts another location in the woman’s search for the Gunslinger and follows the New Orleans chapter of the story, which appears later on the album.

2. To the Gallows – Gunslinger’s Story Part 6

A slower-tempo yet still heavy, rock-driven song, “To the Gallows” features powerful vocal performances in the choruses and softer, storytelling verses. It describes the Gunslinger’s time on death row and his eventual escape despite the crowd chanting for his execution.

The woman following his journey finally speaks up, pleading for his life and offering herself in his place, having realized her emotional connection to him. While the song continues the Gunslinger’s narrative, its chorus also serves as a message of empowerment for the listener.

“Oh yeah, don’t let them own ya, follow your own way, f*** what they say” reflects a personal mantra of Lariyah’s, encouraging perseverance regardless of obstacles. This mindset became the foundation of the song’s theme.

3. Gunslinger in Black – Gunslinger’s Story Part 1

The first release by DieveNoire and the beginning of the concept album, “Gunslinger in Black,” was originally intended as part of a solo project by Lariyah. It served as a showcase of the vision for what was to come.

However, after years spent in the rock and metal scene, she realized it was impossible not to expand the project and involve a full band. As a result, this song remains the most stripped-down and humble piece on the album.

Lariyah incorporated her Slavic roots through chanting in the chorus and combined them with dark, emotional vocals describing the Gunslinger’s first appearance in a tavern. This is the moment when the woman narrating the story sees him for the first time.

4. Streets of New Orleans – Gunslinger’s Story Part 4

Inspired by Lariyah’s love for the city of New Orleans and its unique atmosphere, this song follows the woman’s search for the outlaw through the city. It describes the sights she encounters, including voodoo practitioners and ravens circling overhead, creating a mystical and enchanting world that captivates her.

The ballad’s songwriting is intentionally composed to emphasize the vocal storytelling while highlighting beautiful guitar riffs and tasteful lead guitar work. Its style is easily comparable to 1980s power ballads, making it a perfect fit for the song’s atmosphere.

5. The Graveyard Song – Gunslinger’s Story Part 7

This is one of the eeriest songs on the album, filled with whispers, whistled melodies, and ghostly vocals. The band’s performance is intentionally restrained to place focus on the voice and its plea to be accepted into the underworld after death.

By this point, the woman’s search for the Gunslinger has come to an end due to exhaustion, giving the song a haunting sense of finality.

6. Morning Star – Gunslinger’s Story Part 8

To many listeners, this song appears to be a gentle acoustic ballad featuring dual guitars and soft bass lines, expressing love and devotion to a loved one. However, those who delve deeper into the lyrics will discover that it is actually a plea for death to embrace the soul of the narrator.

“Come to me, come closer to my arms” is not directed toward a lover but toward eternal rest itself. “Enter my realm, let me wipe this fear away” serves as the response from the underworld.

Every lyric in this ballad was inspired by a dream Lariyah experienced while in a coma following her 2015 accident. Having briefly experienced clinical death before being revived, she drew heavily from that experience when writing the song.

“Sync with my soul as the ravens circle low” describes her vision of herself fading away and being placed into a coffin, contrary to what many listeners may initially interpret as a romantic embrace.

This is the most personal and meaningful song in her repertoire. Lariyah considers it the true ending of The Story of a Gunslinger, raising questions about the Gunslinger’s identity. Was he a real person, a spirit, or simply a metaphor? Was the journey truly about him, or about her search for answers regarding life and death?

7. These Boots Are Made for Walkin’

A tribute to Nancy Sinatra’s iconic song, this cover was something Lariyah considered essential. In her view, it perfectly complements the album’s themes of rebellion, individuality, and refusing to conform to society’s expectations.

The strength and attitude represented in Sinatra’s original performance fit naturally within the album’s spirit. Musically, however, this version bears little resemblance to the original. It is significantly slower, infused with a modern blues-rock feel, and built around a foot-stomping groove that invites participation from anyone listening, whether they know the original song or not.

8. Spell of White Oleander – Gunslinger’s Story Part 2

Continuing the story from “Gunslinger in Black,” the woman watching the outlaw in the tavern becomes enchanted by him despite never having directly interacted with him.

White Oleander, one of the world’s most poisonous flowers, is left behind by the Gunslinger for a woman he meets in the tavern. The song is a beautiful ballad that explores the emotional impact of witnessing this powerful moment and the feelings it awakens within the narrator.

Heavy guitars emphasize the song’s sentimental qualities, while increasingly dynamic vocal performances draw the listener deeper into the magic of the experience.

9. Throughout the Night – Gunslinger’s Story Part 3

Another emotional ballad, “Throughout the Night” features memorable guitar melodies and soft vocals interwoven with powerful lyrical moments. It explores the Gunslinger’s inner numbness and resentment toward the world around him.

In this song, unlike others where he rides a horse, he rides a motorcycle, providing a more modern interpretation of the Gunslinger archetype. It serves as a symbolic gesture of defiance against the world and a commitment to living life on his own terms.

The song gradually builds in intensity, creating a beautiful musical progression that encourages listeners to close their eyes, forget their troubles, and leave their burdens behind.

10. IDGAF – Gunslinger’s Story Part 9

This song serves as the conclusion of the outlaw’s journey. The woman who has spent so much time chasing the Gunslinger has finally abandoned her pursuit and come to recognize the flaws of the world and the people around her.

After struggling with alcohol and repeatedly promising herself she would stop, she feels her fate drawing near and ultimately gives up trying to please others or hide who she truly is.

Lariyah wrote this song during one of the lowest periods of her life, when she had lost faith in good fortune and stopped caring about the opinions or expectations of others. It is a true bar song, built on the belief that all one really needs is a guitar and good company to celebrate whatever time remains.

With its simple rhythm, driving energy, and crowd-participation chants centered around the infamous phrase in its title, it stands as one of the album’s most engaging and memorable tracks.

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STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS ABOUT THE BAND

1. Lariyah at the beginning wanted the band to be just a one-person project with a synth, drums, clap, and stomp with vocals, and keep it more “tribal Slavic” kind of route. Still, after releasing the “Gunslinger in Black,” she felt the void of the rock and metal world she had been in since her teenage years. She made a decision that this must turn into a full band project. She had an initial idea to play rhythm guitar after finding a bass player, knowing that with her basic knowledge of guitars, she could make it work. Shortly after, she found a perfectly fitting musician to play the instruments with a whole different spectrum of skill, she stepped out from the double duty to give room for the seasoned musicians and focused on vocals only.

2. Josh Perrin, rhythm guitarist of DieveNoire, is known for playing bass in Akhlys and is soon to be releasing his personal project of 10 years + in works. Lariyah, who is also his wife, did not want Josh to be a part of the band first, wanting him to fully focus on his first love – black metal. Josh, also having a background in old school, outlaw country, really liked the idea of DieveNoire and wanted to be a part of playing it live with her, without involvement in writing music – purely from, as he claims, being a dirtbag rock’n’roll soul inside. In the future, there is a potential that he might step down and focus on his prioritized music. 

3. Lothar Keller, on lead guitar, has been playing music since a child, as his father taught him to play multiple instruments. He is known from bands like Legions of Doom/The Skull, and Sacred Dawn. Lariyah and Lothar became the core members of the band.

4. Lariyah and Josh met Jakob Herrmann during their Halloween trip to New Orleans. Little did they know that he was also on his vacation time, flying from Sweden. Little did they know that Jakob is one of the most respected producers in the metal scene whose work includes albums of In Flames, Machine Head, Devin Townsend, Evergrey, and many more. He also offered to bring DieveNoire’s sound to where it should be and took on the production of “The Story of a Gunslinger”.

5. DieveNoire has no direct influence. Lariyah coming up with the idea of it was mostly listening to black metal and English heavy metal, but in the background, Johnny Cash was always a good escape. The KEY MOMENT when she decided to make her ‘years worth of ideas’ into DieveNoire was when she went to Finland for an extreme metal festival and experienced the same musicians (and friends) who just played on stage to put their shorts, flip-flops, and straw hats on, bring acoustic guitars and shakers, and start playing old-school rock and some country songs in the middle of the night, engaging whoever was listening to them, in this case – metal fans who stayed at the same hotel. The moment was so simple and casual to them, yet so impactful to Lariyah.

6. Ever since Paul McBride, also known from many projects, including the Reticent, has changed the entire feel of the band, which will show in the new releases coming after “The Story of a Gunslinger” album songs.

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L-R – Aaron Esquitin – Drums, Lothar Keller – Lead Guitar, Lariyah Perrin – Vocals, Paul McBride – Bass, Josh Perrin – Rhythm Guitar,

Photo by Darrelle Esquitin

DieveNoire is a melodic, blues‑driven heavy rock band led by vocalist and visionary Lariyah Perrin, whose storytelling approach and emotional intensity shape the core of the project. What began as a solitary creative idea, simple beats, haunting vocal lines, and tribal‑tinged blues, quickly evolved into a full‑fledged band with a powerful, dynamic sound.

With the addition of seasoned musicians Josh (Akhlys, Havron), Lothar (The Skull / Legions of Doom), and Paul (The Reticent), DieveNoire transformed from a personal concept into a collaborative force. Their combined backgrounds in black metal, doom, progressive metal, and heavy rock brought unexpected depth and weight to the music, accelerating the band’s evolution.

Their debut album, The Story of a Gunslinger, is a concept‑driven journey born from a vivid dream Lariyah experienced, a cinematic tale set in the old wild west, following a wanted gunslinger whose skill keeps him one step ahead of death. Each track continues the narrative, blending emotion, grit, and a touch of southern‑gothic atmosphere. Other songs on the album step outside the concept, capturing raw moments of personal emotion.

While the album leans into a softer, blues‑rock foundation to highlight Lariyah’s dynamic vocal range, the band’s upcoming singles mark a dramatic shift, heavier, bolder, and more aggressive, reflecting the band’s rapid growth and sharpened identity.

DieveNoire’s writing process is deeply collaborative: Lariyah shapes the vision, lyrics, and melodic direction, while the band builds the musical architecture around it. Songs often undergo multiple transformations before reaching their final form, resulting in a sound that is engaging, emotional, and richly layered.

Onstage, DieveNoire delivers a theatrical, high‑energy performance that amplifies the grit and emotion of their recordings. Vocals take on a harsher, more powerful edge, and the band’s dynamic presence turns each show into a full‑body experience rather than just a listening session.

The album artwork, hand‑drawn by Lariyah, symbolizes the band’s roots and evolution: a tree with living roots and dead branches, wings and a serpent inspired by the custom steelwork on her motorcycle, and imagery that ties directly into the band’s visual world.

After working with renowned Gothenburg producer Jakob Herrmann (Draconian, Thyrfing, Art Nation), the band refined their sound further, embracing heavier textures while preserving the blues‑rock soul at the heart of the project.

DieveNoire stands at the crossroads of storytelling, emotion, and heavy rock, a band unafraid to evolve, experiment, and carve its own path.

Album Band Line Up:
Lariyah Perrin – Vocals
Lothar Keller – Lead guitars
Josh Perrin – Rhythm guitars
Aaron Esquitin – Drums

Discography:
2025 – “The Story of a Gunslinger”

Tours and Fests:
7/16 CHICAGO, IL – LIVE WIRE LOUNGE
7/17 MILWAUKEE, WI – SHANK HALL
7/18 CADOTT, WI – ROCK FEST

Artist Endorsements:
Josh Perrin – Mesa Boogie, Solar Guitars
Lothar Keller – Ernie Ball strings, Pighog cables
Paul McBride – GHS Strings, Arachnid Cabinets, Tsunami Cables

0 EPK – Famous Strangers – Self-Titled (2026)

May 29, 2026
by Asher
· EPKs · Famous Strangers

EPK – Famous Strangers – Self-Titled (2026)

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

For fans of Halestorm, Nothing More, Sevendust, Godsmack, Evanescence, Butcher Babies, Bad Omens

“We feel like this debut album will take fans on a journey, feeling many different emotions. Some may not understand what we are trying to do, but by the end hoping that they are surprised, refreshed, and feeling inspired. We hope the lyrics dig deep into parts of them they didn’t know existed or hid away. Opening up their heart and soul, feeling unstoppable and worthy. Whatever they may be doing while listening, we hope this album captivates them, moving deeper into themselves through our music. Feeling the emotional pull through each track. Moments of inspiration and grit to complete surrender of self. With a touch of silliness and definitely some seduction.” – Amanda Kiernan – Vocals – Famous Strangers

Famousstrangersband.com | Facebook.com/FamousStrangersBand | Instagram.com/famousstrangersband

Tiktok.com/@famousstrangersband | Youtube.com/@Famousstrangersband

Spotify | Apple Music | Famousstrangers.bigcartel.com

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/famousstrangers/ghosts-of-men

“Canada’s Famous Strangers return with an incredible new single, a fierce one titled ‘Ghosts of Men’. Right out of the gate, the riffs are lethal and the vocals are up to the task with a mean disposition that fit perfectly. Famous Strangers is a seriously talented band and ‘Ghosts of Men’ is a shining example of their creativity at work with an extended jaw dropping 6-string solo, a wonderful slow down to catch our breath only to come out on the other side finding ourselves in a choke hold of epic proportions. This is modern metal done right, catch it on your Home for the Best New Rock…W-J-O-EEEE – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll

“Haunting, Stirring and Impactful…those words just keep going through our mind as we take in the new single “I’ll See You In The Stars” from Famous Strangers. This one is quite unique with a powerful intensity that is full of rhythm and achieves the rare feat of fury as a pure form of beauty. We really dig this one and you can catch it on your Home for the Best New Rock…” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll (Single – I See You In The Stars – 2025)

““George” by Famous Strangers is not just a song—it’s a full-throttle, unapologetic metal anthem that grips you from the very first crushing drumbeat and refuses to let go. Heavy. Relentless. Unstoppable. This track is a ferocious sonic onslaught, packed with blistering guitar riffs, bone-rattling drums, and a vocal performance that will leave you breathless.” – Switching Styles (Single – George – 2025)

Band: Famous Strangers
Album Title: Self-Titled
Release Date: August 21, 2026
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Distrokid
Genre: Hard Rock
Location of Band: Edmonton, AB, Canada

Track Listing:
1. Fire Inside – 4:06
2. Ghosts of Men – 4:54
3. Please Her – 4:34
4. As Your Leader – 3:49
5. Desires – 3:50
6. Far Away from Home – 4:18
7. Rain – 9:23
Album Length: 34:57

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Famous Strangers
• All songs written by: Famous Strangers
• Produced by: Jeff Kittlitz, Phil Anderson, and Famous Strangers
• Mixed by: Joel Wanasek
• Mastered by: Maor Applebaum
• Single Artwork by: Art Szabo Creative
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content – MAPL

Album Band Line Up:
Jeff Kittlitz – Guitar, BackUp Vocals
Amanda Keirnan – Vocals, Lyrics
Braden Sustrik – Bass, Back Up Vocals
Brian “Beej” Jolly – Drums, Back Up Vocals

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About the Album Artwork:

We are blessed to have our graphic designer, Art Szabo, working with us. He does a lot more than just our artwork, so we are lucky to have him. For the single “Ghosts of Men,” he put his take on a woman bending down into her reflection, or even a mirrored effect. It looks ominous and ghostly. Even though our video is a very different, separate take on the song, the artwork goes deeper into the lyrical side of things. The isolation. The struggles you feel alone… being “ghosted” when really you yourself almost feel like the ghost! Alone in wonderment and torture of the mind.

The album artwork for the vinyl is a recreation of our very first promo video, which we put out. Made in an incredibly artistic way. It’s the shot in the video where Braden has his hood on, and he has smoke coming out of his mouth. It’s all black and white, which has been our color scheme. It honestly doesn’t mean anything… I just had the idea and thought it would look cool. Now that everything is said and done, you could definitely put your thoughts on it on what it could represent, and every idea is the correct one. That’s the beauty of art.

About the album:

The album centers around the theme of “knowing your worth.” Much of the songwriting draws from personal experiences, delivering messages about self-love, growth, and moving forward. At its core, it’s a reminder that no matter what you face, you’ll be okay and come out stronger on the other side.

While a couple of tracks explore completely different ideas, like aliens, the overall journey is about where you’ve been and who you can become once you break free from what holds you back, and to get out of your own way.

Musically, it is a diverse journey into heavy grungy riffs, explosive moments, fast pace, and energetic. Leading you into epic breakdowns that bring you into softer atmospheric moments. It’s a taste of everything and takes you all over the place. Pushing boundaries and rules of genres. Definitely thinking outside the box.

Track-by-Track Descriptions

1. Fire Inside

Fire Inside began as a simple progressive metal riff but evolved right up to the studio, where the chorus and ending were finalized. After extensive preproduction, the song truly came together. Lyrically, it’s about grounding the listener in the moment and embracing mistakes to honor the journey that shaped you, while holding onto the peace within.

2. Ghosts of Men

Ghosts of Men began as one of the earliest songs written with the band and was later completely rewritten. Originally shelved, it resurfaced when we wanted a raw rock ripper and quickly morphed into its final form, coming together almost instantly and earning its place on the record. Lyrically, it’s a new and deeply personal track, drawn from real experiences and recurring patterns in my life. It’s raw, vulnerable, and unfiltered, but that’s the point.

3. Please Her

Please Her started as a single rock riff and evolved through preproduction as arrangements shifted, especially once Amanda’s vocals came into the mix. The song eventually came full circle, landing as a straightforward hard rock ‘n’ roll track. The title seems to give it all away… It’s playful and confident, about staying true to yourself, knowing your worth, and making sure your cup is overflowing, because every person deserves to feel that way.

4. As Your Leader

As Your Leader is one of the earliest songs written for the band and has been with us since the beginning, taking on new life as the lineup came together. While it carries a lot of anger and frustration, at its core, it’s about community, connection, and the belief that we’re stronger when we come together, all wanting the same things in the end: peace, health, and the freedom to live fully.

5. Desires

Desires was born from Jeff’s first Bloodstock Festival in the UK, a very rock ‘n’ roll, Motley Crue-style night that sparked both the riff and the story behind it. Written by Jeff Kittlitz, the song captures that instant connection you feel when you lock eyes with someone special.

What started as a wild night turned into something deeper, a love song with a bigger meaning. Bringing it to life has been a blessing, and after taking the time to find the right vocal approach, it finally feels like Amanda is delivering the song the way Jeff intended.

6. Far Away from Home

Far Away from Home was written early on while we were still finding our sound. It started with a punk riff that everyone ran with, keeping the song fun and energetic, a tribute to punk. The chorus evolved significantly from preproduction to recording. Lyrically, it’s about being abducted by aliens! It came from a playful place, and having full creative freedom helped the song come together in a way that felt natural and true.

7. Rain

Rain was written in a small town in England on a rainy day, born from a quiet moment on the couch with an acoustic guitar. What started as a simple blues idea came together back in Canada, becoming the first song that truly pulled Amanda in; her lyrics completed it in a way that felt almost magical. Lyrically, the song digs deep into fear, pain, and feeling trapped, and finding the strength to finally let go and choose yourself. It’s one of our softer tracks, showing another side of the band, and we’re excited to share it on the new record.

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Fun Facts:

1. The name Famous Strangers came from Jeff driving through the city, listening to Deep Purple’s “Perfect Strangers” on the radio, and passing a restaurant called “Famous Donair.” The two words slammed together and never left.

2. Some of the guitar riffs on the album have been living on Jeff’s hard drive for over a decade. They finally found the right band and the right voice to bring them to life.

3. We record every single jam session. Some of the best moments on this record started as loose ideas over beers that nobody expected to become real songs.

4. Ghosts Of Men was written 3 days before entering the studio and was completed in the studio

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L-R – Drums – Brian Jolly, Vocals – Amanda Kiernan, Bass – Braden Sustrik, Guitar – Jeff Kittlitz

Photo by Taryn Leanne

Famous Strangers is a heavy rock band from Sherwood Park, Alberta, rooted in the classics and built for today. Drawing from the fire of Dio, Maiden, Judas Priest, and W.A.S.P. and channeling the intensity of Halestorm, Jinjer, Spiritbox, and Unleash the Archers, the band blends raw power with emotional depth and a sound that refuses to sit still.

The lineup: Amanda Kiernan on lead vocals, Jeff Kittlitz on guitar and backing vocals, Braden Sustrik on bass and backing vocals, and Brian “Beej” Beejerson on drums and backing vocals, brings together over 20 years of collective experience across the Alberta music scene, with roots in bands like Pugnacious, Compromise, This Is War, and The Order of Chaos. What started as a casual jam session turned into something nobody expected… a full creative force with a hunger to share it with the world.

With four singles out, Deep Star, George, I’ll See You in the Stars, and LSC, all recorded in-house and mixed and mastered alongside Phil Anderson, Maor Appelbaum, and Joel Wanasek, the band has been steadily building momentum. Every single release has been accompanied by a music video, filmed and edited by Brad Thompson at Brad Thompson Photography, with George edited and post-produced by Art Szabo Creative. Their Deep Star music video is generating serious buzz, and their debut self-titled album with a vinyl release, lead single, and new music video will be released August 21, 2026

Famous Strangers doesn’t follow a formula. They follow the feeling. Every song lives in its own world… moody, haunting, heavy, honest. Whether they’re on stage or in the studio, it’s about connection, energy, and making music that means something.

Discography:
Self-Titled (LP – Release August 21, 2026)
L.S.C. (Single Release June 3, 2025)
I’ll See You In The Stars (Single Release March 7, 2025)
George (Single Release November 15, 2024)
Deepstar (Single Release (Sept 13, 2024)

Shared Stage with: Three Inches Of Blood, Riot City, Danko Jones, Into Eternity, Revocation, Havok, Born Of Osiris, The Browning, Gravemass, Glyph, Valley Of Despair, Shackled To The Throne, Unending, Per Velum, Squid Hammer, Insurrection, The Devils Sons, Western Death Ballads, Barb Wire Choker, Black Friday, Quietess, Cambie Krostch, Bogue Brigade, Creature Conspire, The Cutoffs, Ditch Pisser, The Myopia Condition, 2L Superpunk, Catapult, Godfall, Oceans Under Stars, Repulse Reprise, Darkend Skies, Amonalyptic, Femme Voyous, and more…..

Tours and Festivals:
2026 – Decimate Metal Fest (Direct Support)
2026 – Western Canadian Album Release Tour Aug of this year
2025 – Decimate Metal Fest
2025 – Armstrong Metal Fest
2025 – Loud As Hell Open Air,
2025 – Grassmass Western Canadian Tour,
2025 – Kittos (Shackled To The Throne) Alberta release tour

0 DOLL Release New Single “Snakes and Ladders,” The Final Chapter In Their “Animal Crackers” Trilogy

May 29, 2026
by Asher
· DOLL · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 29, 2026

DOLL Release New Single “Snakes and Ladders,” The Final Chapter In Their “Animal Crackers” Trilogy

Ottawa alternative rock band DOLL return with “Snakes and Ladders,” the newest single in their evolving Animal Crackers trilogy, following January’s standalone release “Bear Claw” and the fan‑favourite “Shark Bait” from their 2025 album “Better Days, Better Times.” The new track marks another bold step in the band’s creative resurgence, blending their classic grit with a darker, heavier edge.

After re‑emerging from a long hiatus with a renewed sense of purpose, DOLL (the wife and husband duo of Christina and Pete Kasper) has embraced a period of sonic exploration, pushing their sound into new territory while staying true to the raw emotion and honesty that defined their early work.

With “Snakes and Ladders,” DOLL lean into a D‑standard, grunge‑inspired throwback while weaving in the darker tones and textures that have shaped their recent evolution. Loaded with harmonics, punchy riffs, and Christina’s unmistakable vocal rasp, the single captures the band’s signature blend of tension, drive, and cathartic release.

“Our fans expect the unexpected at this point. ‘Snakes and Ladders’ feels like the perfect final piece, gritty, energetic, and a real reflection of where Doll is headed,” the band shares.

The track channels the feral energy, defining their latest era, pulling listeners into a space where the stakes feel real, and the emotion hits hard. It’s a full‑throttle return to old‑school DOLL, raw, gritty vocals, punchy guitars, and drums that push the song forward like a runaway car with no brakes. Carrying the emotional weight and honesty of “Better Days, Better Times,” the single confronts uncomfortable truths with a mix of vulnerability and defiance.

Lyrically, “Snakes and Ladders” stands as an anthem of resistance, calling out the “snakes in suits” who pretend to help but only serve themselves, urging listeners to stay grounded, ask questions, and refuse to play someone else’s game. Musically, it’s one of the band’s most exhilarating tracks to perform, packed with harmonics, quick in‑your‑face riffs, and a vocal delivery that dials up the grit and angst. It’s built for movement, release, and shaking off whatever’s weighing you down.

“As the song says, ‘I refuse to play your game.’ Always ask questions. Keep perspective. Don’t drink the Kool-Aid blindly.”

The single’s artwork came together through a moment of pure serendipity. While wandering through a thrift store, the band stumbled upon a vintage Snakes and Ladders board game, complete with classic packaging that felt uncannily perfect for the song’s theme.

“It was like the universe dropped it in front of us. Once we saw it, we knew this was the cover. It was meant to be,” the duo adds.

The artwork mirrors the song’s message, life’s unpredictable climbs and falls, and the importance of staying true to yourself no matter where the board leads.

Listen to “Snakes and Ladders” at the following links:

Add to your Spotify Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/2jaDZUp5fZoRJDu7wXTEU7

All digital platforms – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/doll14/snakes-and-ladders

More info: https://www.facebook.com/dollband | https://www.instagram.com/dollbandmusic/

About: DOLL is a Canadian alternative rock band from Ottawa, Ontario. After releasing their debut album Inside the “Dollhouse” in 2009, with singles “Daddy’s Little Girl” and “Sally Lost Her Shoelaces” earning rotation on MuchMusic and MusiquePlus, the band followed up with 2011’s The Ragdoll Diaries, featuring the singles “FMO” and “Youth of Today, Hope for Tomorrow.”

Over the years, DOLL has shared stages with Three Days Grace, Lacuna Coil, Danko Jones, Protest the Hero, Halestorm, SNFU, Die Mannequin, and many more. After a long hiatus, the band returned in 2025 with Better Days, Better Times, reigniting their momentum and setting the stage for the Animal Crackers trilogy.

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What the press has said about DOLL:

!earshot – August 2025 – Top 20 Loud – #5 – DOLL – Canadian Campus Radio Charts (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

!earshot – August 2025 – Top 200 – #55 – DOLL – Canadian Campus Radio Charts (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“#1 Doll – Zach’s Picks of the Week – July 7 – 12, 2025 – Canadian Beats (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“In one of the best comeback stories in music in 2025, Canadian Alt-Rock duo DOLL will release their first new collection of material since 2011’s The Ragdoll Diaries… In addition to five slamming originals, DOLL chips in an inspired take on the Deep Purple classic rock anthem – “Smoke On the Water!” “- Ghost Cult Magazine (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“Doll sharpens their grit with new muscle and melody. Their return after more than a decade is not a nostalgia trip but a rebirth. The Ottawa band’s forthcoming EP Better Days, Different Times (July 18th) expands their core formula of raw energy and no-frills honesty by inviting new players and broader sonic choices into the mix. But even with cello flourishes and genre jumps, their identity remains firmly intact.” – Amplify The Noise (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“The new track ‘Shark Bait’ from Doll is a blast! The world has been celebrating the 50th anniversary of “JAWS” and now we have a brand new punk-fueled bite in the pants to go along with all of the bloody hoopla. ‘Shark Bait’ is basically straight ahead hardcore riffage with razor sharp teeth, fun lyrics and a precursor to their new EP, ‘Better Days, Different Times’ set for a July 18th release. Catch it on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“DOLL has returned as potent and as impressive as they were before but with greater impact we suggest, Better Days, Better Times quite simply a must exploration for punk and feral rock hearts.” – The Ring Master Review (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“Christina Kasper’s changeable voice is impressive.” – Keep On Rocking (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“‘Bleeding’ is a colourful mixture of Hard and Alternative Rock, paired with influences from Punk and Gothic, in a very melancholic sounding melody. The powerful voice of singer Christina Kasper dominates like a siren. ” – Metal Heads Forever Magazine (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
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0 EPK – DOLL – Snakes and Ladders (2026)

May 29, 2026
by Asher
· DOLL · EPKs · Uncategorized

EPK – DOLL – Snakes and Ladders (2026)

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

“We would say that following the reception we had to the first few songs in the Animal Crackers trilogy, with ‘Shark Bait’ and ‘Bear Claw’, we feel like we’ve hit a stride where our fans expect the unexpected at this point. ‘Snakes and Ladders’ is the final piece, and we think (and hope) its going to be received as a really cool mix of the Doll evolution, going into a D standard tuning as a throw back to the grunge sound of old and incorporating the elements of the new darker tone and feel, sprinkled in with a bunch of harmonics, and of course the signature Christina vocal style, Snakes and Ladders provides the rasp, the drive and the bang to be a banger. We’ve always said this project was about having fun and exploring new sounds and styles. We’re confident that ‘Snakes and Ladders’ will land just as hard—if not harder than Shark Bait or Bear Claw.” – DOLL

For fans of SoftCult, Amyl and the Sniffers, Scowl, Nobro, The Pretty Reckless

Doll.bandcamp.com | Facebook.com/dollband | Spotify | Youtube.com/@insidethedollhouse

All Digital Platforms – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/doll14/snakes-and-ladders

What the press has said about DOLL:

!earshot – August 2025 – Top 20 Loud – #5 – DOLL – Canadian Campus Radio Charts (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

!earshot – August 2025 – Top 200 – #55 – DOLL – Canadian Campus Radio Charts (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“#1 Doll – Zach’s Picks of the Week – July 7 – 12, 2025 – Canadian Beats (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“Christina Kasper’s changeable voice is impressive.” – Keep On Rocking (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“The Rag Doll Diaries” is the story of a road weary/world weary band with so much to say and share. Its the combination on heartache and despair offered with a hand meant for holding. In other words here is real music for the real world.” – Heavy Metal Time Machine (2013 – The Ragdoll Diaries)

“Doll was conceived as a bridge between punk and rock, a bridge that was fulfilled in the early ’90s by bands like Nirvana and the mid-’90s by Foo Fighters… A good punk band doesn’t write about the joys of picking daisies and Doll is no exception.” – The Whig Standard (Kingston, ON) (2013)

“Doll provides a missing link between punk and rock.” – The Intelligencer (Belleville, ON) (2013)

“The four-piece are definitely reminiscent of the grunge era and have provided a concise four-word biography of the band: “Rock N’ Fucking Roll.” – Exclaim! (2011 – The Ragdoll Diaries)

“One of the most striking aspects of Inside The Dollhouse, after Christina’s whiskey-and-hell voice, is a fictional character by the name of Sally created to carry the songs. A concept completely unexpected given the band’s twentysomething youth, immediately reminiscent of Alice Cooper’s infamous character Steven, introduced on Welcome To My Nightmare in 1975.” – Bravewords (2010 – Inside the Dollhouse)

“The debut from Ottawa’s Doll caught me instantly like a fish on a hook. This is serious music. Dark, intense and magnetic, this is the kind of gritty ’90s grunge that doesn’t fuck around. Fronted by the vocally vicious Christina Kasper, Doll recall an angry and confused era of music devoid of pop but not catchiness. Kasper howls in the vein of Courtney Love and Brodi Dalle, and while the lyrics are simple and not exactly fresh, they are impacting. Songs like “Perfect” deal with trying to live up to society’s standards, while “Sally Lost Her Shoelaces” and “Daddy’s Little Girl” deal with hurt, confusion and heroin against a backdrop of chunky guitars, assaulting drums and badass attitude. Julie-Anne Madore’s backing vocals add a whispered, haunting feel to this record. If the dirty rock’n’roll alone doesn’t reel you in, nothing will.” – Exclaim (2009 – Inside the Dollhouse)

Band: DOLL
Single Title: Snakes and Ladders
Release Date: May 29, 2026
Label: Grunge Never Died, You Did Records
Distribution: DistroKid
Genre: Hard Rock, Punk, Grunge
Location of Band: Ottawa, Ontario

Single Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Doll
• All songs written by: Doll
• Produced by: Josh Hart
• Mixed by: Josh Hart
• Mastered by: Josh Hart
• Single Artwork by: Mark Kidd
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Single Band Line Up: Pete Kasper, Christina Kasper, Josh Hart

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

About The Single Artwork:

Oh, this one is super crazy; it’s almost like we manifested the opportunity by picking the song title to be Snakes and Ladders. We were walking through a thrift store, and out of nowhere, a full-on board game version of the game, with the classic packaging from who knows when. We took a photo of the original box, and it was perfect.

Really makes you wonder, are we living in some video game simulation itself? As soon as you start thinking about something, it always seems to appear in some form, it’s like when you never notice a certain car or shirt, but then the moment you get one, its like you see them non-stop.

Finding that board game, at exactly that moment, it’s a coincidence that just played out so perfectly, there was no point in going a different direction. This was the cover art that was meant to be.

About the single as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

Musically, Snakes is a real fun one for us to play, we did a lot of harmonics which we never did a lot in the past, we brought in a lot of the classic feel with the in your face quick riffs, and vocally with the performance dialing up the grit and angst in the delivery, it’s a great song to move to and get some issues out.

Lyrically, it’s a classic tale of boy meets girl, girl kills boy. LOL.

Just kidding.

The messaging is an uplifting anthem fighting back against the bullshit, whether that be the snakes in suits that pretend to want to help you, but are just in it for a paycheck. This was our take on hopefully giving some sense that no matter what, you have to be yourself and never give up.

As the song says, “I refuse to play your game.” Remember to always ask questions, keep things in perspective, and don’t just drink the Kool-Aid blindly.

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

Fun Facts:

1. Christina and Pete are married.

2. They have been supporting and pioneering the Ottawa local scene by organizing shows in the area for over 20 years.

3. On tour, we always had hot and sour soup in every city.

4. Our first out-of-town runs of shows, we didn’t even have a band van, which we ended up finding late night the day before, purchased off someone privately, and had insured and plated the next morning before driving off in our amazing two-tone brown GMC Safari (RIP), the best van ever created.

5. Everyone was a huge fan of Sonic Youth

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

After a long hiatus, Doll returned in 2025 with a brand‑new album, and they’re keeping the momentum going with a follow‑up 2026 single, “Bear Claw,” releasing January 16th.

Doll is a Canadian alternative rock band from Ottawa, Ontario.

In 2009, Doll released their first album, Inside The Dollhouse. A video was filmed for their debut single, “Daddy’s Little Girl,” which aired on MuchMusic and MusiquePlus. A second video was filmed for their next single, “Sally Lost Her Shoelaces.” Madore left the band a few years later, with Paquette returning to take her place.

In 2011, they released their second album, The Ragdoll Diaries. Two singles and videos emerged from this release: “FMO” and “Youth of Today, Hope for Tomorrow.” The album was issued on both CD and vinyl. Soon after, Alex Vance joined the lineup as the new bassist.

Over the years, Doll has shared the stage with an impressive roster of artists, opening for Three Days Grace, Lacuna Coil, Danko Jones, Spinnerette, Protest the Hero, Band of Skulls, Anvil, Halestorm, SNFU, Hanzel Und Gretyl, Civet, The Creepshow, Die Mannequin, and many more.

Discography:
2025 – Better Days, Different Times
2011 – The Ragdoll Diaries
2009 – Inside the Dollhouse

Tours and Festivals:
2011 – Ottawa Bluesfest
2011 – IndieWeek
2011 – NXNE
2011 – Montebello Rockfest

0 Saskatoon’s PYTHONIC Sheds Its Skin w/ New EP “Laws of Karma” Out July 2026; Streaming Single “Sentience” + Western Canada Tour Support w/ Exit Wound

May 29, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Pythonic

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 29, 2026

Saskatoon’s PYTHONIC Sheds Its Skin w/ New EP “Laws of Karma” Out July 2026

Streaming Single “Sentience” + Western Canada Tour Support w/ Exit Wound

L-R – Ryan Hunter (Lead Guitar), Morgan Warriner (Vocals), Max Hiske (Bass), Vincent Kohut (Rhythm Guitar & Backing Vocals), Jayden Warriner (Drums)

Saskatoon, Canada’s Pythonic return in 2026 with “Laws of Karma,” their heaviest and most personal release to date. Arriving July 10th, the EP marks the band’s third chapter following 2025’s “Decomposition” and 2024’s “EP01”, pushing their signature death‑groove sound into darker, more aggressive territory. The first single, “Sentience,” is streaming now.

Rising from the ashes of their previous lineup, Pythonic have rebuilt themselves into a tighter, more ferocious unit, aggressive, groovy, raw, thick, and dirty. The new EP captures that evolution with revamped tracks, sharpened performances, and a renewed focus on emotional intensity and extreme heaviness.

“These songs mark the true step forward for Pythonic. Even the ‘worst’ track on the EP is still a killer. We’re driving the death‑groove harder than ever,” says the band.

“Laws of Karma” delivers five tracks forged from hardship, recovery, and personal transformation, written during periods of physical limitation, disability, and emotional turmoil. The EP captures Pythonic’s resilience and their determination to create music that moved others, even when they themselves could not. Musically, the record pushes deeper into death‑metal and slam territory while holding tight to the groove‑driven backbone that defines the band, resulting in tighter rhythms, heavier riffs, ripping solos, and vocals that swing between grit, terror, and raw catharsis.

At its core, “Laws of Karma” is the final evolution of older, unrecorded material, now rewritten, re‑lyricized, and reborn through the current lineup. Tracks like “Venom,” “Set You Free,” “Feed the Flames,” and the title track channel deeply personal experiences, religious critique, abusive relationships, supernatural horror, and the consequences of one’s actions. The EP’s artwork, created by @apocalyptic.nuke, depicts a figure impaled on a liberty scale in a hellscape, a stark visual metaphor for karmic justice that ties directly into the record’s themes.

“This is the first set of music that is fully me. We made music to make you move when we ourselves at times could not,” says vocalist Morgan.

The lead single “Sentience” is Pythonic at their most emotionally charged. Written after guitarist Vincent returned from a nearly two‑year hiatus caused by injury, the track channels existential dread, rebirth, and the struggle to reclaim one’s identity. Lyrically, the song explores the chaos of awakening, questioning reality, confronting internal contradictions, and wrestling with the burden of awareness.

“It’s as though sentience itself is calling out to you, telling you that you can’t escape it,” adds the band.

The track’s head‑banging verse riff, crushing chorus breakdown, and standout vocal performance from Morgan make it one of the band’s strongest singles to date.

Listen to “Sentience” at the following links:

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/0sgsoKfdkUTIGRKggTPNf3?si=7fb02f34759645b8

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymCFKjZ5tX0

In additional news, Pythonic will join Calgary’s Exit Wound for select Western Canada dates, bringing their destructive live energy to new cities. Known for their tight performances and explosive crowd response, Pythonic continue to build a reputation as one of Saskatchewan’s most intense rising acts.

Tour Dates (with Exit Wound):
May 28 – Regina, SK – The Exchange (Club Side)
May 29 – The Pas, MB – Venue TBA
May 30 – Brandon, MB – The Hall
May 31 – Winnipeg, MB – Sidestage
June 5 – Calgary, AB – The Rock Shop
June 6 – Edmonton, AB – Starlite Room (Temple Stage)

Track Listing:
1. Laws of Karma (3:17)
2. Feed The Flames (3:52)
3. Set You Free (4:07)
4. Sentience (4:36)
5. Venom (2:59)
EP Length: 18:51

EP recording credits:
All songs performed by Pythonic
All songs written by Pythonic
Produced by Pythonic
Mixed by Reid Paraszczynec / Lucid Distortion Audio
Mastered by Reid Paraszczynec / Lucid Distortion Audio
Album Artwork by Apocalyptic Nuke

EP and Live Lineup:
Morgan Warriner – Lead Vocals
Ryan Hunter – Lead Guitar
Vincent Kohut – Rhythm Guitar and Backing Vocals
Max Hiske – Bass
Jayden Warriner – Drums

More info:

https://www.facebook.com/pythonicband

https://instagram.com/pythonicband

About: Pythonic is a Canadian death‑groove band known for their crushing riffs, relentless energy, and emotionally charged lyricism. Influenced by Lamb of God, Black Dahlia Murder, Death, Morbid Angel, Devildriver, Pantera, and modern slam, the band continues to evolve toward a heavier, more extreme sound. Their live shows are defined by precision, intensity, and a connection with the crowd that consistently sparks movement, even as the opening act.

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“Pythonic’s Decomposition EP: Rebuilt, Refined, and Ridiculously Relentless” – North Sask Music Zine

“A nice blast of heaviness to see out the year. Pythonic throw their all into delivering a memorable showcase of thrashing death metal. An EP of five tracks that shows off plenty of creativity, has moments of exciting flair, and undeniably delivers the hefty ‘one-two’ punch of death crossed with thrash metal. 8/10” – Games, Brrraaains and A Head-Banging Life (Decomposition – 2025)

“PYTHONIC does command respect. The way they have approached the music is impressive. I hear Metalcore, I get Metal Hardcore, I receive Groove metal and I hear Heavy Metal. Sometimes one of the four, at other times two or more of the four ingredients on offer. And what is even more impressive; they work well together.8/10” – Metal Temple (Decomposition – 2025)

“Pythonic assuredly on fine footing based on the reinterpretation of older songs for Decomposition. Strap yourself in for a modern mix of groove metal with thrash, death, and metalcore components which leaves you battered, bruised, and craving more.8/10” – Dead Rhetoric

“The first thing that grabs you about this second stab in the dark from Pythonic is Warriner’s shrill screams which are as nasty as a low budget horror movie from the 1980’s but in a good way. That’s not to say he doesn’t have a death growl of course but it’s not all that deep, his preference being to shred your ear canals as he screeches like a lunatic awaiting asylum on opening gambit “Guiltfeeder“. A track with a sinister urge and classy bit of lead towards the end from Hunter, it’s something that has that classic Morbid Angel about it while there can be little doubt the band love a bit of Swedish Death Metal.” – Metal Noise

““EP 1” is a testament to Pythonic‘s dedication to their craft and their refusal to be confined by sub-genre limitations. Each song is a blend of technical prowess and raw emotion, offering listeners a chance to experience the full spectrum of the band’s capabilities. It is recommended for fans of Machine Head, Trivium and Pantera.” – Metal-Rules (EP01 – 2024)

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

0 EPK – Pythonic – Laws of Karma (2026)

May 29, 2026
by Asher
· EPKs · Pythonic

EPK – Pythonic – Laws of Karma (2026)

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

For fans of Lamb of God, Morbid Angel, Devildriver, Black Dahlia Murder

Band: Pythonic
EP Title: Laws of Karma
Release Date: July 10, 2026
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Distrokid
Genre: Groove / Death / Thrash
Location: Saskatoon, SK, Canada

Pythonicband.com | Facebook.com/pythonicband | Instagram.com/pythonicband | Youtube.com/@pythonicband

Pythonic.bandcamp.com | Spotify | Apple Music

Tour Dates:

May 28 – Regina, SK, Club side of The Exchange
May 29 – The Pas, MB – venue TBA
May 30 – Brandon, MB – The Hall
May 31 – Winnipeg, MB – Sidestage
June 5 – Calgary, AB – The Rock Shop
June 6 – Edmonton, AB – Starlite Room Temple Stage

“Pythonic’s Decomposition EP: Rebuilt, Refined, and Ridiculously Relentless” – North Sask Music Zine

“A nice blast of heaviness to see out the year. Pythonic throw their all into delivering a memorable showcase of thrashing death metal. An EP of five tracks that shows off plenty of creativity, has moments of exciting flair, and undeniably delivers the hefty ‘one-two’ punch of death crossed with thrash metal. 8/10″ – Games, Brrraaains and A Head-Banging Life (Decomposition – 2025)

“Pythonic comes from Canada with ‘Epica’, a track that features fast-paced guitar riffs, heavy drums and an engaging, torn vocal that delivers to listeners the essence of metal and subverts such as alternative, thrash and even melodic, being perfect to the circle and not to leave anyone standing still.” – Os Garot Os Deliverpool (EP01 – 2024)

“Pythonic has an EP for you. Blending Thrash with Old School Swedish Death Metal, the band manages to sound like Entombed but without losing its unique style… So if you have a few minutes of anger to drain, these guys are going to cover you!” – Metal Eclipse Reviews (EP01 – 2024)

“Overall I’m a pretty big fan of this record. If you want something that sounds maybe like an Anthrax or a Slayer record then you really want to check this out. The most dynamic and unique part of this EP, in particular is the vocals are double-tracked and they’re very high in the mix which is something that is somewhat different than a lot of the other metal releases this year which I greatly appreciate. If you want something that has a lot of the thrash guitar element then you’re really going to want to check this out. The guitar and drum parts are fantastic, they really keep the songs very tight even though the vocals are very in your face and they’re usually the the first thing that you would notice with this kind of record but overall this is very strong.” – Brutally Delicious (EP01 – 2024)

Band: Pythonic
EP Title: Laws of Karma

Release Date: July 10, 2026
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Distrokid
Genre: Groove / Death / Thrash
Location: Saskatoon, SK, Canada

Track Listing:
1. Laws of Karma (3:17)
2. Feed The Flames (3:52)
3. Set You Free (4:07)
4. Sentience (4:36)
5. Venom (2:59)
EP Length: 18:51

EP recording credits
All songs performed by Pythonic
All songs written by Pythonic
Produced by Pythonic
Mixed by Reid Paraszczynec / Lucid Distortion Audio
Mastered by Reid Paraszczynec / Lucid Distortion Audio
Album Artwork by Apocalyptic Nuke

EP and Live Lineup:
Morgan Warriner – Lead Vocals
Ryan Hunter – Lead Guitar
Vincent Kohut – Rhythm Guitar and Backing Vocals
Max Hiske – Bass
Jayden Warriner – Drums

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

About the EP Artwork:

The artwork depicts a guy screwed onto a liberty scale in a hell scape background. We called the EP “Laws of Karma,” hence why we used a liberty scale to impale the figure onto. The artwork was done by @apocalyptic.nuke. The model is of no specific person to name, but holds a deep connection to the band as they were served the karma they deserved, as portrayed in the song “Laws of Karma.” The ending verse highlights the main points tying together the art and the song. They go very hand in hand with each other. We also updated our logo for this release to better align with our new direction in sound. The logo was also done by @apocalyptic.nuke. We are quite happy with how the art turned out and think it matches our brutal leanings as of late.

About The EP: Lyrically and Musically

Lyrically answered by Morgan, “Laws of Karma is the first set of music I have written that has been fully me. To say that I am proud of it is an understatement. The entire set of 5 was written when I was in a very dark place, recovering from surgery and being unable to walk/move. The entire album reflects on Vincent’s, Jayden’s, and Morgan’s struggles with disabilities and surgery. We made music to make you move when we ourselves at times could not.”

Musically, these songs have been written over a wide span of time. Lots of personal struggle and hardship can be heard throughout the riffs. These riffs are a culmination of living through life, and on the toughest days, you can still rip out a killer song through the ashes of despair.

Track By Track: Lyrically and Musically

All lyric content answered by Morgan

1. Laws of Karma – The Laws of Karma guide your fate. This speaks no matter how holy a person views themself they will forever be chained to the laws that guide this world. Karma is a real thing, and it comes to bite some people in the ass. Laws of Karma was written about the ex-member of Pythonic who was in the band for many years. It really highlights Vincent’s personal relationship with him, how the band would have people talk to us about his shitty behaviour and lack of respect. We found it fitting to use him as the object of karma.

Musically, this song was written by Ryan. It was one of the first tracks written to start leaning into a heavier sound and has been a part of our live show for many years. The riffs have not changed over the years, as the song is quite a solid piece of work. We saw it fitting to take the song and not change the name from its predecessor, and to keep the structure exactly the same as it rips.

2. Feed the Flames – Feed the Flames is the second half of Liturgy. Everyone talks about summoning the devil, but rarely discusses what the consequences may be. Demons walk this earth. They are greedy, powerful monstrosities that will take anything offered to them and then some. It speaks on the fire’s voice, which is a popular scripture in the bible (Exodus 3:2). Hearing the fire’s command, obeying, and feeding the flame. Only to have the beast take more than what was offered, terrifying those who summoned it. Eventually claiming the person themself. The beast has finally won.

Feed the Flames came to Vincent while he lived in a fairly haunted house. A solid chorus riff mixed with some other weird yet haunting riffs. The jump in the BPM near the end of the track is supposed to capture the franticness of being pursued, and the abrupt stop is you finally being caught. These go hand in hand with the lyrical content of the song. Stopping abruptly right as the lyrics “ The beast has finally won” are being spoken really helps join the music to the lyrics.

3. Set You Free – Set you free from this holy lie is self-explanatory in itself. It speaks of how religion has changed, how it is not true to itself and how so many people have suffered at the hands of “god”. If any book tells you to hate a fellow human being, that book is completely wrong and should be burned. People gather in mass to listen to people who are continuously getting flak and having people come out and speak about how they were sexually abused by a priest. Religions telling us to hate each other have no place in this world. Religion spreads hate, Pedophiles rule the world, and the bible is blasphemy.

Musically, this is another mostly Ryan banger track. This track has been developed over a long period of time and has had many iterations that have been played live. The core riffs of this track never really changed, like the intro and the verse riffs. They were just such solid riffs over the years and got the crowd moving. The rhythm over the solo is also just an absolute demon of a riff. This was another one of the songs that was written around the time of “Laws of Karma” and was a push for us to sound heavier.

4. Sentience – Lyrically, the song ” Sentience ” was written regarding the viewpoint that a majority of society is not sentient yet, what happens when someone gains sentience and questions the current narrative and the internal turmoil of not wanting to understand the way that the world works “, in ignorance there is bliss”. The entirety of sentience is filled with contradictions as well as unrest of questioning one’s very existence; it’s as though sentience itself is calling out to you, telling you that you can not escape it. Its darkened proposition of guiding you through fractured identity and internal struggle really highlights the personal pursuit of inner peace, but never being able to find it.

What makes a person sentient? Why do some people seem although they are not sentient and do not have souls? Some questions may never be answered. Will one ever find inner peace?

Musically, Sentience comes from a very raw, emotionally charged area for Vincent. It was the first song he had written after being able to play guitar again after an almost two-year hiatus due to not being able to physically play. The riffs dug into his psyche at the time of being relieved to be able to play again, but also releasing the tension of will I ever be able to play again and enjoy music as I had prior. The hiatus had brought up questions of whether I should just call it and start selling all my gear? Am I going to lose all my friends in the band, not being able to do what we enjoy together anymore? The existentialism of these questions harboured the riffs for “Sentience”, making it the heavy-hitting headbanging song you hear today.

5. Venom – Lyrically, Venom is about my personal struggles of being in an abusive relationship. How I was hit, tormented, and gaslit. I thought that I had found the one, and if I had just stayed, things would get better. It speaks to my inability to understand why I was ever treated in such a way. When it comes to abuse, there is never a rhyme or a reason for the way someone treats another person. I gave myself like a devotion or sacrifice to a person who sucked me dry of everything. Later on in Venom, it speaks on how I found myself again after finding the truth and how the person only has themself left to betray.

Musically, Venom comes from a very similar place as the lyrics did. Vincent wrote the majority of this song in a half-hour sitting after breaking up with an abusive ex. Gaslighting and mental torment at the pinnacle of having enough is what brings these riffs together with the lyrics. Originally, the riffs were titled “Drain” as Vincent had felt drained by the relationship in every aspect. A true cathartic release of being abused by a partner.

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Fun Facts:

1. After we played the Into Eternity show this past November, Morgan received some very flattering compliments on his vocals from Stu Block. This had the band very excited. Ryan and Vincent also received a handshake of approval from Matt Cuthbertson on how well our sound and set have come along. It was a very amazing time to share the stage with such legends in the scene and to be noticed by them as well.

2. Shortly after the amazing Into Eternity show, we got to be the opener for Slaughter Fest in Edmonton. This show was quite a wild ride. Being able to play the main stage at the Starlite Room felt so surreal. As we performed, more and more people just kept flooding in. The response after our set was also amazing. We had people surprised by the fact that we got people to mosh, saying, “It’s like a rule here that no one moshes for the opening band,” yet that rule was broken. We also received very kind words from Sean Watson, the leader of Display of Decay. He said, “Why didn’t you guys tell me you were so good we would have put you in a later slot?” We honestly didn’t think we were that great to be asking for that, but the crowd’s response never lies.

3. Shortly after the Slaughter Fest show, we would be contacted to be on Serenade Metal Fest once again. We donated our set once to the show, as it helps raise funds for cancer and MS research. And we like to help out with benefit shows even when we have a fairly substantial cost input for getting out to Edmonton.

4. Not long after Serenade happened, we were contacted by Exit Wound out of Calgary to do some tour dates with them. We were all very surprised by this and also excited, as some other touring for the spring had fallen through. We were surprised because we had only played with Exit Wound one other time last year, in June at a Saskatoon date for their tour. This was the third show with Morgan on vocals, and during the middle of the set, Morgan was trying to get the hype up for Exit Wound, and with the amount of air he was pushing for vocals, he had a moment of forgetfulness and forgot the name of their band. Lacking experience and oxygen made us look unintentionally a little bad, but we obviously have the chops and demeanor to show that it was an unintentional accident. Exit Wound later went on that night to play a ferocious set and later invited us on some dates for their upcoming tour.

5. After sharing the stage with Brain Stem at Slaughter Fest, we were later joined by them at Serenade. While we were at Serenade, Jess Leduc, the vocalist, came up to us before the show and jokingly said, “We never heard of you guys before Slaughter Fest, now we are on almost every show this year,” because we later would be sharing the stage with them once again during the Edmonton date of the tour with Exit Wound. Brain Stem is also an amazing band, and if you have never listened to them, you should really check them out. They have been on our band’s radar for a while, and it’s nice being able to play with an awesome band, like they are so many times!

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L-R – Ryan Hunter (Lead Guitar), Morgan Warriner (Vocals), Max Hiske (Bass), Vincent Kohut (Rhythm Guitar & Backing Vocals), Jayden Warriner (Drums)

Pythonic is a Canadian death-groove metal band hailing from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Drawing inspiration from groove and death metal giants like Lamb of God, The Black Dahlia Murder, Morbid Angel, and Devildriver, the band blends crushing riffs with unrelenting energy. Striving for the tightest live sound possible while delivering an electrifying stage presence, Pythonic is truly a sonic force to be reckoned with. Over the years, the band has seen many lineup changes, but two core members have remained constant. Lead guitarist Ryan Hunter, the resident guitar prodigy, shreds some of the grooviest riffs and most blistering solos. Rhythm guitarist Vincent Kohut brings a machine-like precision, combining thick low-end riffing with razor-sharp tremolo picking.

The 2026 and beyond lineup:

Jayden Warriner – skin slapping powerhouse on drums

Morgan Warriner – a vocalist with a beastly range that will leave your head spinning

Max Hiske – locking down the low end and slappin’ da bass with fury

Together, this lineup delivers the full-throttle sonic assault that defines Pythonic.

Discography:
2026 – Laws of Karma – EP
2025 – Decomposition – EP
2024 – EP01 – EP
2020 – Negative Thoughts – Single

Shared the stage with:
200 Stab Wounds, Beguiler, Art of Attrition, Insurrection, YEGG, Untimely Demise, Ravenwitch, Hatchet, Hazzerd, Into Eternity, Display of Decay, Brain Stem, Age of Ashes, A Modern Prometheus, Cell (MB), Exit Wound, Kelevra, Augurium, Widows Peak, Protosequence, Agony Spawn, Wasted Heretics, deadsunday, Alien to the Ignorant, Balrogath, Kryotic

Fests
2026 – Serenade Metal Fest – Edmonton, AB
2025 – Slaughterfest – Edmonton, AB
2025 – Serenade Metal fest – Edmonton, AB
2019 – Shockerfest 26 – Edmonton, AB

0 Edmonton’s FAMOUS STRANGERS Unveils Explosive Single “Ghosts of Men”

May 29, 2026
by Asher
· Famous Strangers · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 29, 2026

Edmonton’s FAMOUS STRANGERS Unveils Explosive Single “Ghosts of Men”

L-R – Amanda Kiernan (Vocals), Brian Jolly aka “Beej” Beejerson (Drums), Braden Sustrik (Bass, Vocals), Jeff Kittlitz (Guitar, Vocals)

Photo by J-Kiernen Photography

Edmonton, Canada’s heavy rock force, Famous Strangers, unveils the explosive single “Ghosts of Men” from their long‑awaited self‑titled debut album, co‑produced with Phil Anderson, mixed by Joel Wanasek, and mastered by Maor Appelbaum, set for release on August 21, 2026.

“Ghosts of Men” was originally somewhat written back when Braden, Beej, and Jeff first got together, but put on the back burner. It was then rewritten, including vocals, just three days before entering the studio. The track evolved rapidly into one of the album’s most personal and hard‑hitting tracks.

“Famous Strangers tear down the double standard with ‘Ghosts of Men,’ a track that hits as hard as the conversation it starts. Bold, unapologetic, and impossible to ignore,” adds Kiernan

The music video takes a wild, tongue‑in‑cheek look at the emotional chaos of being ghosted, an over‑the‑top visual interpretation of the song’s raw vulnerability.

Music Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JllvDWc2AC4

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/famousstrangers/ghosts-of-men

The self-titled album marks the band’s first full‑length statement after a run of well‑received singles and videos throughout 2024–2025, including “Deep Star,” “George,” “I’ll See You in the Stars,” and “LSC”. Built on decades of collective experience in the Alberta music scene, Famous Strangers deliver a sound that is unpredictable, moody, haunting, old‑school, and intriguing, a fusion of classic heavy rock energy with modern emotional depth.

Famous Strangers formed organically after years of crossing paths in the Edmonton scene. Guitarist Jeff Kittlitz and drummer Beej had accumulated several original songs over a decade of part-time jamming. Bassist Braden Sustrik and Beej had a history in other past projects, and he was integrated into the jams around 2018. When vocalist Amanda Kiernan joined in 2023, everything clicked instantly.

“The connection was undeniable, the energy and vibe were pure magic. The lyrics poured out of me as if they’d been waiting for this exact moment,” says Kiernan.

The self‑titled debut is built around a central theme: knowing your worth. Drawing from deeply personal experiences, the album explores self‑love, growth, resilience, and the journey of breaking free from what holds you back. Musically, it’s a dynamic ride through heavy grunge‑soaked riffs, explosive high‑energy moments, atmospheric breakdowns, and softer introspective passages. The band pushes genre boundaries, embracing creative freedom and emotional honesty. Tracks range from the empowering opener “Fire Inside”, to the punk‑driven alien‑abduction romp “Far Away from Home”, to the blues‑infused vulnerability of “Rain.”

Recommended for fans of Halestorm, Nothing More, Sevendust, Godsmack, Evanescence, Butcher Babies, and Bad Omens, the self-titled album is available for pre-order / pre-save (Vinyl/Digital) (Out August 21, 2026) – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/famousstrangers/famous-strangers

Album artwork and track listing will be revealed in the coming weeks.

Upcoming Show Dates:
June 27 – Decimate MetalFest – Millet, AB
July 3 – The Slice – Lethbridge, AB
July 4 – The Blox – Calgary, AB
Aug 6 through 20 – Western Canadian Tour
Aug 21 – Album Release Show 1 – Rec Room – Edmonton, AB
Aug 22 – Album Release Show 2 – Temple Starlite – Edmonton, AB

More info:

https://www.famousstrangersband.com/

https://www.facebook.com/FamousStrangersBand/

https://www.instagram.com/famousstrangersband

About: Famous Strangers is a heavy metal band from Sherwood Park, Alberta. Rooted in the classics and built for today, the band brings together four veterans of the Alberta music scene with over 20 years of collective experience. With four singles, a music video for every release, and a debut album on vinyl dropping in August 2026, Famous Strangers is all raw power, emotional depth, and a sound that refuses to sit still.

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0 Streaming Now! Prog Fusion Visionaries LUFEH’s New Album “Overwhelmed”

May 28, 2026
by Asher
· Lufeh · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 28, 2026

Streaming Now! Prog Fusion Visionaries LUFEH’s New Album “Overwhelmed”

Photo Credit – Joao Pinheiro

Progressive rock collective LUFEH will release their highly anticipated sophomore album “Overwhelmed” on May 29th, marking a major new chapter for the band as they continue to evolve their sophisticated fusion of prog rock, metal, jazz, and Brazilian musical influences. Fans will get their first chance to hear the full record a day early with an exclusive album stream premiere on TheProgSpace at https://theprogspace.com/lufeh-overwhelmed-album-premiere/

The release follows a powerful run of singles that have steadily revealed the album’s musical depth and emotional range. “He Commands the Sun and the Stars”, the first single, is a rhythmically complex yet instantly memorable track that sets the tone for the album’s direction.
“Overwhelmed”, the cinematic title track featuring a standout violin performance from new featured vocalist Ginny Luke. “Double Dip”, a time‑shifting prog fusion piece highlighted by the exotic Bulbul Tarang. “War of Emotions”, the band’s heaviest single to date, explores the internal battles of the self.

Recorded at the legendary Sunset Sound in Los Angeles and produced by keyboardist Gera Penna, “Overwhelmed” represents LUFEH’s most refined and expressive work to date. While the band’s debut “Luggage Falling Down” leaned heavily into technicality, the new album strikes a deliberate balance: intricate musicianship paired with catchy, memorable vocal melodies designed to stay with listeners long after the songs end.

“We still have that elaborate, complicated playing, but this time every song has vocal parts and choruses that are easy to remember and sing along to. It’s complicated music that’s also catchy,” says band founder and drummer Lufeh Batera.

The album also marks the arrival of Ginny Luke as LUFEH’s new featured vocalist and electric violinist. Known for her work with Foo Fighters, Britney Spears, Snoop Dogg, and more, she brings a dynamic voice and violin performances that add a new dimension to the band’s sound.

Though Lufeh Batera resides in Los Angeles and the rest of the band is based in São Paulo, Brazil, the group crafted nearly 70% of the album online, exchanging ideas daily and refining arrangements collaboratively. Longtime musical partners Deio Tambasco (guitar) and Duca Tambasco (bass) bring decades of chemistry, having played with Lufeh since the early ’90s.

The band’s creative process remains deeply collective, something Batera says defines their identity:

“Our creative process is like a drawing that passes from hand to hand. Everyone adds their own stroke until it has the right colors and depth.”

Across its eight tracks, “Overwhelmed” explores themes of pressure, renewal, duality, longing, and self‑reflection. From the rock‑opera drama of “Feels Like I’m a Ghost” to the uplifting message of “Breathe” and the spiritual catharsis of “End of the Tunnel,” the album blends technical mastery with emotional storytelling.

With influences ranging from Dream Theater and Rush to Vola, Tool, and Haken, LUFEH’s new album stands as their most cohesive and expressive work yet. It’s a record built for both musicians and melody‑seekers, complex, modern, refined, and deeply human.

Album pre-order (Out May 29th, 2026) – Bandcamp – https://lufehband.bandcamp.com/

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/artist/0an1zJbJGzCFkoXapSmjaB

Videos:

War of Emotions – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLpdNpBKaqM

Double Dip – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_vbw_09koSo

Overwhelmed – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2ZN21fSq0c

He Commands the Sun and the Stars – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0WG8j9ovlU

Track Listing:
1. He Commands The Sun and The Stars – 4:22
2. Breathe – 4:03
3. Double Dip – 4:39
4. Overwhelmed – 4:30
5. Feels Like I’m A Ghost – 5:43
6. Live The New Today – 4:50
7. War of Emotions – 3:50
8. End of the Tunnel – 4:18

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Duca Tambasco, Deio Tambasco, Gera Penna, Lufeh Batera, and Ginny Luke
• All songs written by: Duca Tambasco, Deio Tambasco, Gera Penna, and Lufeh Batera
• Produced by: Gera Penna
• Mixed by: Adair Daufembach
• Mastered by: Adair Daufembach
• Album Artwork by: Lufeh Batera

Album and Live Band Line Up:
Duca Tambasco – bass and backing vocals
Deio Tambasco – guitar and backing vocals
Gera Penna – keyboard and backing vocals
Lufeh Batera – Drums
Ginny Luke – vocals (featuring)

More Info:

https://www.lufehband.com

https://www.facebook.com/lufehband

https://www.instagram.com/lufehband/

About:

LUFEH is a progressive rock/metal band blending technical precision with emotional depth and genre‑bending influences. Formed by drummer Lufeh after a long hiatus from music, the band now features guitarist Deio Tambasco, bassist Duca Tambasco, keyboardist/producer Gera Penna, and vocalist/violinist Ginny Luke. Their sound draws inspiration from Dream Theater, Rush, Vola, Tool, Haken, and Brazilian musical traditions.

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“What grabbed me most on the album, besides the deeply personal approach to songwriting, was the level of talent the band has. We all know that talent isn’t the measuring stick to success, but it never hurts. This band has plenty, but they don’t let it overtake their sound. This was a feel good album with plenty of substance.” – Metal Temple (2026 – Overwhelmed)

“My take on the album: I do like that Lufeh do things their own way. For me this is an exceptional album with a fresh take on traditional metal. Ginny is a gem on vocals and the use of instruments is damn good. A flawless album that deserve nothing less than the perfect 10.” – Project Metal Music

“If their debut consisted of showing their instrumental muscles, their next album Overwhelmed (released May 29) seems to focus on purely melodic choruses. It has the complexity of Haken or Rush, but with choruses that really stick in your head.” – Radio Papy Jeff (2026 – Overwhelmed)

“Lufeh has built a sound that sits at the intersection of three demanding disciplines — Progressive Rock’s structural ambition, Progressive Metal’s physical weight, and Jazz-Fusion’s harmonic and rhythmic sophistication — and has managed to do so without reducing any of the three to background texture. The integration of Ginny Luke‘s violin gives the ensemble a tonal signature that is genuinely distinctive and provides the record with some of its most memorable moments. The dual vocal format, consistently well-deployed, expands the expressive range of the material in ways that a single voice simply could not replicate. With a renewed lineup and a track record of progressive evolution, Lufeh delivers here a disciplined, technically formidable body of work that will satisfy those who take their Heavy Prog seriously.” – Progressive Rock Journal

“Very soulful breaks.Like the dynamics. The drummer is very powerful and precise. Like Rush if they were a soul band.” – CFRU 93.3 FM – Planet Groove (Guelph, ON, Canada)

“With „Overwhelmed“ LUFEH are opening a new chapter – more emotional, melodic and at the same time more powerful than ever. The title track of their upcoming album combines progressive virtuosity with haunting storytelling and marks an impressive evolution – an intense foretaste of what happened on March 29th. May 2026 is coming.” – Metalogy (2026 – Overwhelmed)

“Heavy prog shines with the new single ‘He Commands the Sun and the Stars’ from LUFEH. Dream Theater and Shadow Gallery fans will find a lot to love here including a spotlight performance from featured vocalist and electric violinist Ginny Luke. Musically the band doesn’t disappoint with soaring keys, complex percussion, driving riffs, strolling bass lines…all at a high level, which is what is demanded when you enter the sacred space of progressive rock. Just as much a beautiful performance as it is a breathtaking adventure, this track raises expectations for the new album “Overwhelmed” which can’t get here fast enough on May 29th. Catch LUFEH on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll (2026 – Overwhelmed)

“Progressive hard rock’s LUFEH have just released another powerful new single, ‘OVERWHELMED (feat. Ginny Luke)’. The title track from their forthcoming album slated for a May 29th launch, this one is also like the prior single (‘He Commands the Sun and the Stars’), a masterclass of modern prog metal. Hooks that sink deep, superb performances by the band and outstanding songwriting are all on display. The anticipation for the new album is swelling with each single and based on what we’ve heard so far, we’re ready for an exceptional experience. Catch Lufeh on your Home for the Best New Rock…W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll (2026 – Overwhelmed)

“With Overwhelmed, LUFEH have crafted a progressive rock album that is mature without feeling restrained, technical without becoming cold, and melodic without sacrificing ambition. It is the sound of a band refining its identity while opening itself to greater emotional risk. The result is a record that feels both grand and personal, the kind of album that rewards close listening while still offering choruses, hooks, and moments of immediate impact. LUFEH are not simply flexing their instrumental muscles here. They are building songs that understand what it means to carry too much, to lose sight of the surface, and to keep reaching anyway. ‘Overwhelmed‘ may be born from pressure, but its greatest achievement is the way it turns that pressure into motion, melody, and release.” – Infrared Magazine”

Great prog album, love Feels Like I’m A Ghost song” – The Chill dude on the Couch

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0 VICTORIA K – New single “Oh So Weary”; The First Glimpse From Upcoming Album “The Pleasure Of Sorrow”

May 28, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Victoria K

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 28, 2026

VICTORIA K – New single “Oh So Weary”; The First Glimpse From Upcoming Album “The Pleasure Of Sorrow”

Australian gothic/modern metal act Victoria K unveil “Oh So Weary”, the first single taken from the upcoming album “The Pleasure Of Sorrow”.

With “The Pleasure Of Sorrow”, Victoria K moves toward a darker and more intimate sound, combining gothic atmospheres, modern heaviness, haunting melodies, and emotionally driven songwriting. The album expands the band’s sonic identity while exploring themes of grief, mortality, vulnerability, and rebirth.

“Oh So Weary” offers the first glimpse of this new direction through a composition that balances fragility, tension, and crushing dynamics. Layered arrangements, haunting melodies, and a sharp modern production approach – helmed by producer Lee Bradshaw and elevated through Lance Prenc’s mixing and mastering – shape a track that feels both massive and deeply personal. Additional electronic textures and sound design elements further reinforce the song’s contemporary edge and immersive atmosphere.

The single reflects on mortality and on the human body as a temporary shell inhabited by the soul. Recurring references to “home” and “house” symbolise physical existence itself, questioning what may remain once that form disappears.

Rather than relying on traditional genre formulas, Victoria K continues refining a sound built around atmosphere, emotional weight, and contemporary influences. Over the years, the Australian act has developed a distinctive identity within the modern gothic and alternative metal landscape through dynamic songwriting and cinematic storytelling.

Further details regarding “The Pleasure Of Sorrow”, including the album release date, will be revealed in the coming months. Stay tuned!

Listen to “Oh So Weary” here: https://lnk.to/b2R91u

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gmo57RpzXrI

For fans of: Spiritbox, Evanescence, Lacuna Coil

VICTORIA K lineup:

Victoria Knight: Vocals
Charlie Curnow: Extreme Vocals
James Davies: Drums
Ethan Collusi: Bass

BIOGRAPHY:

Emerging from the sepulchral mists and haunted landscapes of ancient myth, Victoria K cast a lengthening shadow over Australia and beyond. Leading the Australian Gothic Metal charge with soaring vocals, expansive melodies, and bombastic songwriting that draws on the resonance of the oldest tales and fresh emotion.

Victoria K first came to the notice of listeners with their single “Lacuna,” which was distributed in Australia and New Zealand by Warner Music Group (Australia) and was an early taste of things to come with their debut album, “Essentia“.

Soon after the release of the 2019 single “Lacuna” ahead of the band’s first album, Victoria K were invited to support Swiss Folk Metal legends Eluveitie at Melbourne’s Croxton Bandroom. Though this was Victoria K’s first live outing, they took the crowd by storm and left them chanting for more. This entry into the live scene set the stage for the release of “Essentia” perfectly.

The diversity of music across the “Essentia” album is showcased across the four single/video releases – “Essentia“, “Forsaken“, “The Haunting“, and “Matrix“. While “Forsaken” reaches into the darker corners of Victoria K’s musical palette, “Matrix,” by contrast, is a fast and uplifting song guaranteed to get the blood pumping.

Just as Victoria K was about to play their first headline show, however, the world was plunged into the throes of lockdowns and the now-infamous pandemic. Even in the face of such a challenging time for the music industry, the band remained undeterred and performed a live show streamed directly from the studio, which was later released as the DVD “Essentia – Live Isolation Concert“.

By the time the world opened up again, Victoria K were ravenous for touring and embarked upon an extensive trek across the Great Southern Land that took in capital cities and regional towns alike, from their hometown of Melbourne to Whyalla.

Even as they toured, Victoria K showed no sign of slowing down in their songwriting, and 2023 saw the release of their sophomore album “Kore“. For this release, Knight drew on her own Greek heritage to weave an enchanting interpretation of the story of Persephone, including lyrics and chants sung in Ancient Greek to truly capture the epic tale.

The lineage from such luminaries of Gothic Metal as Within Temptation, Lacuna Coil, and Evanescence, as well as Prog/Power acts like Evergrey and Melbourne’s own Teramaze, to Victoria K is clear; however, with their latest release, Victoria K pays tribute to a more surprising inspiration, Madonna. In April 2024, Victoria K released their heavy rendition of the iconic 1998 ballad “Frozen“, running the gamut from heavy riffs to more dulcet moments, giving homage to the soulful and introspective nature of the song.

In addition to Knight’s majestic lead vocals, Victoria K’s current touring line-up includes Charlie Curnow tearing up the stage on harsh vocals, Ethan Colussi holding down the bottom end on bass, and the indomitable percussive machine of James Davies on drums.

Victoria K has amassed over 475,000 streams on Spotify and accumulated over 717,000 views on YouTube, averaging over 90 hours a month of watch time, with Matrix achieving over 150,000 views. They also boast over 6300 Facebook, 4000 Instagram, and 2700 TikTok followers, as well as over 6600 YouTube subscribers and 1000 monthly Spotify listeners primarily in Australia and the US.

With Victoria K leaning into epic and fantastical tales, it’s only fitting that they supported Blind Guardian at the Northcote Theatre on Friday, February 9, 2024, and Katatonia at The Croxton on Saturday, February 10, 2024.

Victoria K’s have recorded their 3rd studio album, “The Pleasure of Sorrow.” The details will be revealed in the coming weeks.

More info:
https://rockshots.eu/

https://www.instagram.com/victoria_k_official/

https://www.facebook.com/victoriakofficial/

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0 China’s DEHUMANIZING ITATRAIN WORSHIP Drops “Yomi” A Slam‑Fueled Tribute to Acheron and Japanese Folklore From New Album “二次元コンプレックス 2D Complex”

May 28, 2026
by Asher
· Dehumanizing Itatrain Worship (Stillbirth Records/Gore House Productions) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 28, 2026

China’s DEHUMANIZING ITATRAIN WORSHIP Drops “Yomi” A Slam‑Fueled Tribute to Acheron and Japanese Folklore

New Album “二次元コンプレックス 2D Complex” Out July 2026 via Stillbirth Records / Gore House Productions

Line Up – L-R – Zen (Bass) | Shiru (Drums) | Kiryu Zhang (Vocals) | Xenochrist (Guitar) | Khezk (Composer)

Photo Credit – Wendy

China’s most unhinged fusion of anime culture and extreme metal, Dehumanizing Itatrain Worship, return with their newest single “Yomi”, taken from their upcoming full‑length album “二次元コンプレックス 2D Complex” out this July 2026 through Stillbirth Records, the subsidiary label from Gore House Productions.

Known globally as “the best anime death metal from China,” the band continues to push their bizarre, hyper‑violent, kawaii‑infected sound to new extremes. With brain‑melting anime‑style melodies, high‑speed blast beats, and a chaotic blend of J‑pop, brutal death metal, blackgaze, and Japanese folk, DIW have carved out one of the most unique identities in modern extreme music.

Having toured extensively across China, Japan, and Europe, and appearing at major festivals including Deathfeast Open Air, Eastsea Metal Fest, Monster Kill EU Tour, and Shockwave Fest, along with sharing the stage with such bands as Suicide Silence, Stillbirth, Born of Osiris, Origin, Belphegor, Vulvectomy, and more, the band now prepares to unleash their most ambitious and personal work yet.

Today, the band unveils their new single “Yomi” featuring Alan Grnja (Distant). The song stands as one of the album’s most striking and emotionally charged tracks, blending DIW’s signature slam brutality with Japanese folk elements and a solemn, atmospheric tone.

“‘Yomi’ features Alan Grnja from the Dutch deathcore heavyweights Distant. We blended in Japanese folk elements here. It’s solemn yet fierce, I think you guys are going to love it,” adds vocalist Kiryu.

The track follows the atmospheric piano interlude “Utsushiyo”, setting the stage for a descent into a mythic, folkloric underworld inspired by the character Acheron from Honkai: Star Rail.

Listen to “Yomi” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1y5hIAykpOc

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/1fyoWtozo3cyRSOTiUrGuc

“二次元コンプレックス 2D Complex” marks a major evolution for Dehumanizing Itatrain Worship, both musically and lyrically. While the band first gained notoriety for their meme‑driven anime‑slam chaos, this album digs deeper into Otaku psychology, isolation, and emotional collapse.

“We moved away from pure gore this time to focus more on anime culture, the hikikomori life, and my own mental state. These Otaku memes are just a shell. What’s actually inside is pain, hatred, and a genuine urge for self‑destruction. Imagine a car crash in Akihabara, that’s our music in a nutshell. We threw in everything from J‑pop and Blackgaze to Japanese folk. Every track is meant to stick with you. This album refuses to be boring,” adds Kiryu.

Dehumanizing Itatrain Worship was formed from the collision of Japanese animation and extreme metal. DIW has become one of the most recognizable names in the global slam scene. Their sound is fast, brutal, kawaii, weird, and funny, a chaotic blend that has earned them a cult following across Asia and Europe.

For fans of: Ingested, Vulvodynia, Within Destruction, and Maximum The Hormone.

Due out on July 10, 2026, from Stillbirth Records / Gore House Productions, “二次元コンプレックス 2D Complex” is available for pre-order / pre-save at: https://orcd.co/2d-complex

Track Listing:
1. Lucky☆Slam – 1:32
2. Slamonogatari (feat. Andrew Lee from Ripped to Shreds) – 3:57
3. Brutal Panzer – 3:14
4. Twisted Light (feat. Akihiro Muto from Agent 0) – 3:11
5. 苦痛昇天 (feat. Yui from Earthists.) – 3:03
6. Song of the Neet (feat. Yanchi from 5PM Promise and Matt Yakesh from No Face No Case) – 3:35
7. Utsushiyo – 1:38
8. Yomi (feat. Alan Grnja from Distant) – 4:01
9. 約束 (feat. Niik from Pale) – 5:51
Album Length: 30:03

Album and Live Band Line Up:
Kiryu Zhang – Vocals
Xenochrist – Guitar
Zen – Bass
Shiru – Drums
Khezk – Composer

More info: Gorehouseproductions.com | Facebook.com/DehumanizingItatrainWorship | Instagram.com/dehumanizing_itatrain_worship

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“If the only thing the band had was a well-executed gimmick, I likely would have lost interest by now. One of their main strengths is that the core sound would hold up even if the gimmick was taken out.” – The Goat Review

“China’s Dehumanizing Itatrain Worship took the internet by storm with their debut EP μ’Sick.” – MetalSucks

“Dehumanizing Itatrain Worship made a mark on the metal community with head-spinning brutality accompanied” – Unite Asia

“It promises to be the most unusual new track (Eien Parasites) you’ll check out for a while.” – New Noise Magazine (2022)

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