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Posts By Asher

0 NEVER ELECTED Unveils Provocative Video For Single “Hate Breeds Hate” Off “Turbulent” Out Now!

  • July 24, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Never Elected

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 24, 2024

NEVER ELECTED Unveils Provocative Video For Single “Hate Breeds Hate” Off “Turbulent” Out Now!

L-R – Dr. T – Bass, Wesley Meyer- Drums, Sujit Kumar- Vocals, Altan Aydin – Guitar

Photo Credit – Rahul Mukerji

Never Elected, a deadly grungy rock group from Washington DC, USA has recently re-released their album “Turbulence” this past April and are stoked about the reception that they’ve gotten so far from it. Now they have a music video for the single “Hate Breeds Hate” that shows off their proactive politically charged lyrics and grungy rock riffs. Reflecting on the band’s journey, Altan Aydin shares:

“Somewhere between hard rock from the late 80s and the early 90s grunge era, our music delves into the turbulent times of our vocalist’s life. The reactions from our live performances range from pure exhilaration to deep emotional resonance, a testament to the raw honesty embedded within our songs.”

Formed by Sujit Kumar and Altan Aydin, both fueled by a shared passion for grunge and rock n’ roll, Never Elected has evolved into a powerhouse ensemble with Dr. T’s melodic bass riffs and Wesley Meyer’s driving force on drums. Despite facing challenges brought on by the pandemic, the band persevered, showcasing their resilience by recording and releasing two singles/music videos during this unprecedented time.

With plans to embark on a tour to promote their upcoming album release, Never Elected invites audiences to join them on a journey of introspection and exploration. They are recommended for fans of Guns N Roses, Soundgarden, and Foo Fighters.

Watch and listen to the music video for “Hate Breeds Hate” via its premiere on Outlaws of The Sun HERE.

“Turbulent” was released on April 19th, 2024, and is available on https://neverelected.bandcamp.com and Spotify.

Previous Videos:

All My Life – https://youtu.be/YV9G-hdQy0s​

One Of These Days – https://youtu.be/AXMi4dRlLM4​

Track Listing:​
1 – All Rise – 4:56
2 – Hate Breeds Hate – 4:20
3 – It’s Over – 4:06
4 – So Damn Easy – 5:04
5 – Time – 3:55
6 – Stab Me – 3:41
7 – Voice Inside – 5:09
8 – Tolerance Broken – 4:26
9 – All My Life – 2:15
10 – Death Complaint – 5:56
11 – One Of These Days – 4:00
Album Length: 47:52

Never Elected is:
Sujit Kumar – Vocals
Altan Aydin- Guitars
Dr T – Bass
Wesley Meyer – Drums

More info: NeverElected.com​

-30-

“Washington D.C.’s Never Elected are bringing back some of the best elements of the ’90s, including the long hair. Fusing the socio-political consciousness of Rage Against the Machine, Living Colour’s furious bass-riffs, and the Foo Fighters’ driving guitars, the band is an in-your-face grunge-revival explosion.” – New Noise Magazine

“It’s really about time that you “Wake Up” and start paying attention to the world around you, including the hard rockers known as Never Elected. The band has just released a visually-stimulating music video to accompany their recent single, a revved-up, riff-driven sonic assault that has been the band’s most successful track since its November 2019 release. “Wake Up” is a preview of what’s to come on the group’s next record which they have been hard at work on this year and are on the verge of completing. If it wasn’t already evident by its title and socio-politically themed lyrics, the hard-hitting music video for “Wake Up” illustrates the fact that the band is out to convey a serious message.” – V13

“After releasing the thought-provoking and socio-politically themed video for their song “Wake Up” last year, Washington, DC’s Never Elected is back with a new video for their song “Where You Belong”. The video touches on yet another serious topic. This time dealing with the struggles of mental health, a topic that is taboo to discuss openly in many cultures.” – All About The Rock

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
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0 GIGANTUM Show Off Their Doomy Rock Stylings With New Single “Necron99” Off Debut S/T Album Out Sept 2024

  • July 23, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · Gigantum · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 23, 2024

GIGANTUM Show Off Their Doomy Rock Stylings With New Single “Necron99”

Debut S/T Album Out Sept 2024

L-R – Mia X – Vocals/Bass, BlareNBitch – Guitar/Vocals, Chase Manhattan – Drums, Mark Lüntzel – Guitar/Vocals

Photo Credit Mariana Fiel

Gigantum, the innovative hard rock band from Los Angeles, USA continues to experiment with the genre norms as they release their second single “Necron99” from their upcoming self-titled debut album slated to hit online retailers on September 6, 2024. Following the successful launch of the single “Monkey King” last month, this new track delves deeper into the band’s eclectic influences and creative synergy, offering fans another taste of what’s to come. Vocalist/bassist Mia X comments on the single:

“A lot of the songs are about conversations that we have at practice. Necron99 came about when Mark told us about this movie he was really into and wanted us to check out called, WIZARDS. After watching it, I went down a rabbit hole to learn more and when he started playing the riff that is now Necron99, I started thinking about the importance of what the movie was portraying.”

“Necron99” has a very heavy, doomy industrial feel that takes the listener into darkness. Gigantum works collaboratively, coming up with riffs that bounce off each other, and in each track, the different ideas and musical influences of the musicians can shine through. The result is an EP that is as complex as it is compelling, offering listeners a glimpse into the band’s creative process.

“Necron99” could be considered the modern-day “War Pigs” and is recommended for fans of Fu Manchu, Mastodon, and Red Fang.

Watch and listen to the lyric video for “Necron99” via its premiere on Outlaws of The Sun HERE.

Due out on September 6th, 2024, Gigantum‘s self-titled album is available for pre-order at https://gigantumband.bandcamp.com.

Lyric video for “Monkey King” at https://youtu.be/PsSv8Znmqk4​

Track Listing:​
1. Monkey King – 6:11
2. For All My Friends – 5:38
3. Forever Dreaming – 7:02
4. Brain Haze – 8:36
5. Rock Box – 3:38
6. Necron99 – 8:48
Album Length: 39:52

More info: https://linktr.ee/gigantumband​

-30-

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

0 Rockshots Records – Finnish Prog DARKNESS IS MY CANVAS New Video “Day Zero” Off New Album “The End Of Times” Out October 2024

  • July 22, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · Darkness Is My Canvas · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 22, 2024

Finnish Prog DARKNESS IS MY CANVAS New Video “Day Zero” Off New Album “The End Of Times” Out October 2024

​

Finnish prog rock Darkness Is My Canvas is set to release its debut album “The End Of Times” in October 2024 on Rockshots Records. “Day Zero,” the latest single from the album, reveals a new side of the band. While it retains all the familiar elements of their previous tracks, the band has pushed their melodic creativity to the limit, resulting in the magical “Day Zero”. This song is the 7th chapter (and 7th track) of the album, portraying the moment when a path ends and a decision must be made to begin on a new one. “Day Zero” is about starting fresh, from ground zero.

“I wouldn’t call it a concept album because this universe has been around since our last EP. We’ve been telling stories from these same characters’ perspectives in previous releases,” says Pete Erkintalo, responsible for the story and lyrics of Darkness Is My Canvas. “I think ‘Day Zero’ is a beautiful and nuanced song, allowing listeners to feel it from their own perspectives,” Pete continues. The lyrics for the song had been in reserve for a while, part of a few other stories yet to be told.

The song’s structure, vocals, and melodies came together in one evening when guitarist Panu and singer Pete were tired of tweaking another song’s arrangements. “Sometimes these things come together so easily. One night we were just goofing around with guitars and vocal ideas on the studio couch, and it just clicked. A few hours later, we had a nearly finished song with arrangements, melodies, and vocals pretty much done. Sometimes Pete has too many vocal variations, but this time I just let him sing and enjoyed it from the control room, thinking, ‘Yes, that’s it,'” says Panu. “Of course, we made several versions in our signature style to find the right arrangement, and we kept tweaking balances, sounds, and the overall finish until the end.” The guitar melodies came right after the bass track using the “direct från hattan” method. Only the odd section in the middle of the song needed some more time. “I came up with a bass riff in a 15/16 time signature by accident, and we had no choice but to build a solo around it. We even tried a Simon Phillips-style drum solo with our drummer Juza (like the end of Steve Lukather’s ‘Party In Simon’s Pants’), but ended up with a guitar solo. I probably played like 50 versions while struggling with the time signature, but the final version came together effortlessly in one take. The audience has really enjoyed the song live, and it’s fun to play!”

The song follows Darkness Is My Canvas‘ signature style, featuring strong melodies, relatable stories, and excellent arrangements that resonate with listeners. Panu’s atmospheric guitar arrangements complement Pete’s powerful vocal performance, telling the story together. Two more versions of the song will be released: one featuring an up-and-coming indie artist and another as a shortened radio edit.

For those who appreciate bands like Muse, Ghost, and My Chemical Romance, prepare to rock out with Darkness Is My Canvas!

Watch and listen to the video for “Day Zero” at https://youtu.be/NRWF-Kua9FY

​

Digital – https://lnk.to/RGdDYW

​

Track Listing:​
1. Wash
2. Rejected
3. Bleed
4. Ink In The Water
5. The Maze
6. The End of Times
7. Day Zero
8. Subliminal
9. These Times
10. Skin & Bones

Darkness Is My Canvas is:
Pete – Lead Vocals
Panu – Guitars
Fellu – Bass
Guitar Juza – Drums

For more info:
​Rockshots.eu​
​https://www.facebook.com/darknessismycanvas/​
​https://www.instagram.com/darknessismycanvas/​

-30-

​

“Darkness Is My Canvas has a ton of catchy tracks on this, their debut album. White Noise is an excellent first offering and is the kind of record that makes you want more from them as soon as you can get it. I look forward to hearing more from this band in the future.” – Metal Zenith

“In terms of prog-oriented albums, ‘White Noise’ is often chunkier than the most melodic Opeth, but always more accessible than their black metal infused earlier outings. It’s got more of an interest in old fashioned rock than ninety percent of the riff heavy Dream Theater wannabes that have flooded the market over the years but occasionally is happy to share as much of a heavy edge, and from a metal viewpoint, the album’s weighty musical canvas reaches further than most.” – Real Gone Rocks

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
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0 EPK – Heinous Exsanguination – The Stench of Decaying Flesh (Gore House Productions) (2024) – Out Sept 6th

  • July 22, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Heinous Exsanguination (Gore House Productions)

EPK – Heinous Exsanguination – The Stench of Decaying Flesh (Gore House Productions) (2024) – Out Sept 6th

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

“We are beyond excited to share with the world our first body of work The Stench of Decaying Flesh. We absolutely love making brutal music, and this is just the beginning of what is going to be a great run for the project. Heinous Exsanguination is a passion project, and we will continue to pour our everything into this. Simple heavy music you can listen to without putting too much thought into it. Life is stressful with many things out of your control, and we don’t want any of that on your mind when listening to this. Sit back and enjoy the heaviness.” – Heinous Exsanguination

For fans of Embryectomy, Kraanium, Parasitic Ejaculation, PeelingFlesh

Band: Heinous Exsanguination – EP Title: The Stench of Decaying Flesh
Release Date: September 6, 2024
Label: Gore House Productions

Gorehouseproductions.com | Facebook.com/GoreHouseProductionsOfficial | Instagram.com/gorehouseproductions | Twitter.com/GoreHouse

Tiktok.com/@gorehouseproductions | Youtube.com/c/Gorehouseproductions-Official | Spotify | Gorehouseproductions.bandcamp.com

Facebook.com/heinousslam | Instagram.com/heinousexsanguination | X.com/heinousslam 

Spotify | Apple Music

Band: Heinous Exsanguination – EP Title: The Stench of Decaying Flesh
Release Date: September 6, 2024
Label: Gore House Productions

Track Listing:
1. Engorged With Hatred (2:14)
2. Vile Rotting Mass (ft. Angel Ochoa of Cephalotripsy) (2:57)
3. Savage Evisceration (2:12)
4. The Stench of Decaying Flesh (ft. Azerate Nakamura of Ungraceful) (2:04)
5. Severed Limbs, Mangled Remains (ft. Richard Smihula of Desoectomy) (2:32)
6. Bodies Open Easier Than You’d Think (2:18)
7. Meat Cleaver Meltdown (2:15)

EP Credits:
All songs performed by Heinous Exsanguination
All song written by Heinous Exsanguination
Produced by Mitchell Christian
Mixed and Mastered by Mitchell Christian
Artwork by Armaada Art

Lineup:
Mitchell Christian – All music and production
JP – Vocals

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

About The EP Artwork:

The album artwork by Armaada Art depicts a scene that does a great job portraying the EP title. With pieces of flesh and body parts scattered throughout a grim setting, and the skull being ripped in half center stage, listeners will get the tone being set by this release.

The album as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

This album is what happens when two people come together who have a passion for making heavy music simply because it brings us great joy to make. We love listening to and creating brutal music. We love the sound of raw, straightforward production and slamming riffs. This really shows musically on this album, as it is comprised of a combination of slamming riffs, blast beats, and groovy sections. Lyrical and theming influence for the music comes from a combination of horror movies, actual events, or stories based on torture, murder, etc.

Track by track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY)

1. “Engorged with Hatred” explores the depths of rage and loathing within the human experience. Sonically, you’ll hear a build-up similar to growing up in the human experience. Explosions and collisions along the way. This song explores multiple different styles of grooves and riffs. Ranging from slams, thrashy sections, polka beats, driving beats reminiscent of Motorhead, and of course triplet breakdowns and pinch harmonics. At the end of the track, you’re hit with brutal double kicks and chainsaw-like high-gain guitars, setting the tone for the EP.

2. “Vile Rotting Mass” depicts the grotesque decay of a once-vibrant entity, exploring hopelessness, death, and decomposition. This song starts off with a brutal lo-fi Slam riff into a head-spinning intro that will surely make the ancient primate within you want to dance. The song then explores different riffs including hardcore-like riffs fused with the classic Slam we all know and love. The “classic Slam riff” will be mentioned a lot! Don’t forget blast beats either. Nothing wrong with too many blast beats. This song then leads you into a swing section reminiscent of mid-century America. If you aren’t exsanguinated by two minutes into the song, you’ll hear slam/brutal death metal legend, Angel Ochoa (Cephalotripsy, Abominable Putridity, Disgorge) spit the filthiest vocals known to man over once again, that classic Slam riff.

3. The song “Savage Evisceration” finds its inspiration in themes of brutality and carnage, violent acts, and the raw, primal instincts that drive them, exploring human nature and aggression. This track hits you hard right away. A riff that will make any caveman shit his pants. Over the top, you’ll hear JP unleash hell on the world with his piercing and grueling vocals.

4. “The Stench of Decaying Flesh” serves as the title track of the project. It paints a grim picture of the suffering and pain that can be inflicted upon people, and the stench that exudes from their rotting corpses. Chainsaws and slow heavy guitars. That’s what will infect your ears upon first starting this song. Into another head-spinning slammy section you’ll be transported to the perspective of the victim at the beginning of the song. Blasting, groove, brutality. The Stench of Decaying Flesh brings just that. At the end of the journey, you will be pounded by huge sub drops and the demonic vocals from beneath performed by Azerate Namakura (Ungraceful).

5. “Severed Limbs, Mangled Remains” is inspired by the graphic aftermath of conflict and disaster, horror, human suffering, and the enduring impact of violence. And also severed body parts. This song was heavily inspired by Slam royalty, Vasculitis. At the time of writing this album, Mitchell was heavy into Vasculitis. Expect everything you would want from a band in our genre. Blasts, breakdowns, slams, slow-downs. This track really shows the ability of Mitchell and JP to create parts that really blend together. JP’s vocals fuse into the track to become another instrument. A groovy break in the song signals the start of California legend, Richard Smihula (Desectomy) to end with a hard-hitting slam that will definitely have you exsanguinated by now if you aren’t already.

5. “Bodies Open Easier Than You’d Think” is a fun song with a very straightforward subject, it’s very easy to open a body. Whether it be surgical tools, a knife, or even bullets, human skin and muscle isn’t that strong. This song is also a reminder to us and anyone else that we are all living our own journey. We all have our own perspectives. We are all somehow living together on a huge rock floating through an infinite universe. To sum that all up, “we ain’t shit”. This song has been released for quite a while now so hopefully if you’re reading this you have heard it. The track takes you through different moments of beatdown, slam, and thrash. Ending with a car crashing breakdown filled with double kicks faster than a hummingbird’s wings.

6. “Meat Cleaver Meltdown” is the culmination of what happens when you just can’t take it anymore. This is another track with a very straightforward subject matter: if someone reaches a breaking point then you don’t want to be around them especially when they’re holding a freshly sharpened meat cleaver. Ah yes, we all love the evil butcher. This last track is another one that will have any caveman getting down. Inspired by the almighty Suffocation, but with a modern slam twist. This song is powerful, making the listener feel like they’re the king or queen of the world. Or underworld. And of course, finishing you off with one last brutal Slam.

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

FUN FACTS – STORY ANGLES

1. Tyrantula (JP) – I was in a deathcore band back in the myspace era, and had the pleasure of opening for some really cool bands like Waking the Cadaver, Impending Doom, and more.

2. JP – I love rollercoasters and theme parks (random fun fact)

3. Mitchell – I started playing guitar at the age of 11. Growing up, I was in multiple bands playing different instruments. Anything from early 2010’s metalcore and deathcore to country cover bands.

4. Mitchell – My profession is a touring FOH engineer. At the time of writing this, I am currently out on tour with Keith Wallen from Breaking Benjamin. Check out his new album, Infinity Now. It’s a pleasure to mix live!

5. Mitchell – I am a huge fan of country music. It is my second favorite genre to anything metal.

Left – Mitchell Christian (Instruments and production), Right – JP – Vocals

Photo credit – Heinous Exsanguination

Brace yourselves for an auditory bloodbath as Heinous Exsanguination releases their upcoming EP “The Stench of Decaying Flesh”. Featuring ferocious guest appearances by Richard Smihula of Desoectomy, Angel Ochoa of Cephalotripsy, and Azerate Nakamura of Ungraceful, fans can expect everything you would want from a slam band -blasts, breakdowns, slams, slow-downs. 

Driven by relentless brutality and spine-chilling intensity, “The Stench of Decaying Flesh” is a testament to Heinous Exsanguination’s dedication to creating the most punishing death metal possible. They are recommended for fans of Embryectomy, Kraanium, and Parasitic Ejaculation.​

“The Stench of Decaying Flesh” is due out on September 6th, 2024, from Gore House Productions and is available for pre-order at https://orcd.co/the-stench-of-decaying-flesh

Discography :
2024 – The Stench of Decaying Flesh – EP
2023 – Bodies Open Easier Than You’d Think – Single

0 EPK – Tonic Breed – Outsold (2024) -10th Anniversary Edition

  • July 21, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Tonic Breed

EPK – Tonic Breed – Outsold (2024) -10th Anniversary Edition

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

Band: Tonic Breed
Album Title: Outsold
Release Date: September 13, 2024
Label: Self-Release

“Outsold is a ten-year-old album that will be revisited and remastered in 2024. This edit elevates all the songs and gives the album the release it deserves. Outsold is the Tonic Breed album that has been played the most live, combining all the songs on the release. The lyrics express the darker themes of life, politics, and our inner demons. So does the music itself, which is more progressive in complexity and length compared to the releases before and after it.” – Patrik K. Svendsen – Tonic Breed

For fans of Slayer, Pantera, Metallica, Testament, Megadeth

Tonicbreed.com | Facebook.com/tonicbreed | YouTube | Instagram.com/tonicbreed 

Spotify | Apple Music

“Tonic Breed reinforces my growing belief that music, and particularly metal, can one day survive and even thrive without need of the corporate machine.” – Metal Disciple (Outsold – LP)

“For an unsigned act Outsold has one of the best productions I have heard in a long time. Simply put it’s a fantastic album.” – Teeth of the Divine (Outsold – LP)

“TONIC BREED could easily advance up the ranks thanks to this impressive release.” – Metal Temple (Outsold – LP)

“10/10. Album of the year 2014.” – The Metal Review (Outsold – LP)

“For an unsigned act Outsold has one of the best productions I have heard in a long time. Simply put it’s a fantastic album.” – Teeth of the Divine (Outsold – LP)

“TONIC BREED could easily advance up the ranks thanks to this impressive release.” – Metal Temple (Outsold – LP)

Band: Tonic Breed
Album Title: Outsold
Release Date: September 13, 2024
Label: Self-Release

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Track Listing
1. Strife (4:17)
2. Fifth Estate (6:25)
3. Bad Company (6:41)
4. Blackened Mind (7:38)
5. Outsold (7:09)
6. Rebellious Tendencies (6:41)
7. Borregaard (8:11)
8. There’s Just One Escape (5:54)

2024 – 10th Anniversary Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Tonic Breed
• All songs written by: Patrik K. Svendsen, Mats Johansen
• Produced by: Patrik K. Svendsen
• Mixed by: Patrik K. Svendsen and Toproom Studio
• Mastered by: Toproom Studio

Album Band Line Up:
Patrik K. Svendsen: Vocals, Guitar
Rudi Golimo: Bass
Thomas Koksvik: Lead guitar
Mats Johansen: Drums

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

The album as a whole.

Dark and energic, with surprising turns, but at the same time sticking to good old thrash recipe. Lyrical themes that touch the political specter, but also some the darkest thoughts humans can have. Every song is different and easy to tell apart from each other.

Track by track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY).

Strife – The shortest song on the album. Plenty of catchy riffs and a melodic chorus. Dark-themed lyrics.

Fifth Estate – The banger on the album. Old school riffing, angry and fierce. A fast paced song that sticks to your head.

Bad Company  – Heavy song, downtempo. Your only friend is bad company, the loneliness.

Blackened Mind – A semi-ballad. Gets heavier and heavier, before the sweetest solo at the end.

Outsold – The title track. One of the more prog songs on the album. Takes the listener through a journey, with a clean part in the middle of the song.

Rebellious Tendencies – The surprising one. How can this song be placed as number six on the album? Thrash recipe.

Borregaard – The instrumental into oblivion, inspired by the heavy industrial town of Sarpsborg.

There’s Just One Escape – The end shall not be quiet. A fast-paced song, that starts off with a guitar solo.

This release is a revisited version of Tonic Breed’s 2014 album, Outsold. The genre has similarities to the old Bay-era thrash style, integrated with groove, melodic, and heavy elements. This marks the album’s 10th anniversary.

Until 2019, Tonic Breed was a full-pieced metal band, but Patrik K. Svendsen re-branded Tonic Breed to become a one-piece metal project with its first release in early 2021. After collaborating with artists such as Dirk Verbeuren (Megadeth), Björn Strid (Soilwork), and Oliver Palotai (Kamelot), a new, but old album, is now on the horizon. Outsold is not re-recorded, and the album is still credited with the same lineup the band had in 2014.

Discography:
2024 – Outsold – LP – 10th Anniversary Edition
2022 – Fuel the Fire – EP
2018 – Install Memory – LP
2014 – Outsold – LP

0 Canada’s PRISONER Forge Modern Rock Mastery With “On A Sunday” Off Upcoming EP “House of Cards” Out Aug 2024

  • July 19, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Prisoner

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 19, 2024

Canada’s PRISONER Forge Modern Rock Mastery With “On A Sunday”

New EP “House of Cards” Out Aug 2024

L-R – Murray Emery (Guitar/Vocals), Karl Pflug (Drums), Jeremy Hartmann (Guitar), Trevor MacDonald (Bass)

Photo Credit – Mikayla Loschuk

High-energy Canadian rock band Prisoner is thrilled to announce the release of their brand-new single “On a Sunday”, the second from their upcoming EP “House of Cards”, which is being released on August 21, 2024. “On a Sunday” directs the listener to the calmer angelic side of hard rock. With glassy acoustic guitar and a direct larger-than-life chorus, it appeals to those who dabble in the world of hard rock and heavy metal. Vocalist/guitarist Murray Emery comments on the track:

“‘On a Sunday’ was the most unexpected song to come from the Prisoner camp. I had the intro riff on a voice note, and during our travels from Ontario to Alberta we as a band were going through potential ideas. I hated the idea at first, but with a bit of encouragement the boys and I wrote the rest of the song in one afternoon… on a Sunday.”

Influenced by 90s-2010s modern rock, this song speaks about human interaction in interpersonal relationships. The idea that someone believes they know you but in reality has no concept of your personal perception. Lyrically, Emery says that he feels like everyone has been in a situation where no matter how hard they try, someone just can’t wrap their head around who they are.

Founded in Calgary, Alberta in 2020, Prisoner is known for their hard-hitting riffs and unmistakably tight grooves, blending classic/hard rock, heavy metal, and blues influences into a modern rock sound. The sound is very broad as they range from various backgrounds, which pushes them to write in a unique way: they are recommended for fans of Megadeth, ACDC, and Judas Priest.

Listen to “On a Sunday” at the following links:

YouTube – https://youtu.be/_45beT45YoU

Spotify – https://sptfy.com/Raxn​

First single “Skies are Blackened” at the following links:

Youtube – https://youtu.be/U9b-hZqAdQ0​

Spotify – https://sptfy.com/R01a

​

Track Listing:​
1. Skies are Blackened (2:42)
2. On a Sunday (4:26)
3. House of Cards (The Game Pt.2) (3:38)
EP Length: 10:46

EP Band Lineup:
Murray Emery (Vocals/Guitar)
Jeremy Hartmann (Guitar)
Trevor MacDonald(Bass)
Wes Bartram (Drums)
Karl Pflug (Drums)

More info: https://prisonerband.ca​

-30-

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0 EPK – Prisoner – House of Cards (2024) – Out Aug 21st

  • July 19, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Prisoner

EPK – Prisoner – House of Cards (2024)

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

“We want to come out with something from everyone, pushing the boundary of what fits within a genre. We come out of the gate with high tempo, thrashing riffs, that throwback to the bay area thrash scene. Into what is considered to some as a power ballad. Which then throws you into a traditional hard rock song with big choruses and tight harmonies. In theory these songs don’t make sense together but under the House of Cards EP everything is cohesive.” Trevor MacDonald (Bass) – Prisoner

For fans of Black Sabbath, Megadeth, ACDC, Judas Priest, Metallica

Prisonerband.ca | Instagram.com/prisonerbandofficial | Facebook | Youtube

Spotify | Apple Music

“Can you guess what Metallica’s “Garage Days Re-revisited”, Trivium’s “Ember to Inferno” and Pantera’s “Cowboys from Hell” records have in common? A band having fun, a band giving it all out and a great and present bass guitar. This is what you will get when listening to “House of Cards” the new EP from the Canadian band Prisoner, formed in 2020 in Alberta by four young men on a mission to make Metal even bigger. The EP is formed by three songs and just under eleven minutes of playtime which is enough to show how fucking good they are! 9/10” – Ever-Metal

“And we’ve added the outstanding new single “On A Sunday” from heavy rockers Prisoner! Elements of alternative rock & metal with a twist of modern rock. So well written with acoustic passages leading up to the electric payoff, “On A Sunday” is a special one. Be sure to catch Prisoner on your Home for the Best New Rock.” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll

“A testament to their musical prowess and diverse range as artists, Prisoner adeptly captures both their high-energy and introspective moments in House of Cards.” – Amplify The Noise

“”House of Cards” did what an EP is supposed to do and that’s whet my appetite for more music from Prisoner. I look forward to their forthcoming full-length album and to hearing what else than do with,” – Rough Edge

“The Devil sends his beast with wrath, for he knows that time is short. Or something. That might be why Calgary metallers Prisoner have followed up their January debut full-length with this EP. And the Maiden reference at the start might have done them a disservice, actually, given that the trio of tracks showcases different sides than that. The opener, “Skies Are Blackened,” is full-on thrash. Think early Metallica, and you aren’t far off, but the next one, “On A Sunday,” couldn’t be more different. Acoustic in the way that Alice In Chains used to be, it’s a fabulous thing. And all of that is before “House Of Cards (The Game PT 2)” hustles into view on the back of quite a mighty gallop. A band to look for, you evidently will not chain Prisoner. 8/10” – Maximum Volume Music

“The Canadian band set out to return to their heavy rock roots, and by the sound of things they have very much done just that. This thing is like Prong but with punk vocals over the top, like the really early days of thrash or crossover. The production fits perfectly with the old-school feel too, feeling like it’s ripped right out of the 80s. The vocals really grew on me throughout, him being able to hit some damn impressive high notes! This thing honestly felt like it was too short, I’d love to have had more from them. Especially with the variety shown between the three tracks. Heck, the slower track, ‘On a Sunday’, is my favourite track on the EP, though the other two are close second and third. I somehow missed the band’s album back in January, but I’mma have to go back and check it out now, as I loved this! 8/10″ – Overtone Magazine

“Can you guess what Metallica’s “Garage Days Re-revisited”, Trivium’s “Ember to Inferno” and Pantera’s “Cowboys from Hell” records have in common? A band having fun, a band giving it all out and a great and present bass guitar. This is what you will get when listening to “House of Cards” the new EP from the Canadian band Prisoner, formed in 2020 in Alberta by four young men on a mission to make Metal even bigger. The EP is formed by three songs and just under eleven minutes of playtime which is enough to show how fucking good they are! 9/10” – Ever-Metal

“And we’ve added the outstanding new single “On A Sunday” from heavy rockers Prisoner! Elements of alternative rock & metal with a twist of modern rock. So well written with acoustic passages leading up to the electric payoff, “On A Sunday” is a special one. Be sure to catch Prisoner on your Home for the Best New Rock.” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll

“A testament to their musical prowess and diverse range as artists, Prisoner adeptly captures both their high-energy and introspective moments in House of Cards.” – Amplify The Noise

“”House of Cards” did what an EP is supposed to do and that’s whet my appetite for more music from Prisoner. I look forward to their forthcoming full-length album and to hearing what else than do with,” – Rough Edge

“The Devil sends his beast with wrath, for he knows that time is short. Or something. That might be why Calgary metallers Prisoner have followed up their January debut full-length with this EP. And the Maiden reference at the start might have done them a disservice, actually, given that the trio of tracks showcases different sides than that. The opener, “Skies Are Blackened,” is full-on thrash. Think early Metallica, and you aren’t far off, but the next one, “On A Sunday,” couldn’t be more different. Acoustic in the way that Alice In Chains used to be, it’s a fabulous thing. And all of that is before “House Of Cards (The Game PT 2)” hustles into view on the back of quite a mighty gallop. A band to look for, you evidently will not chain Prisoner. 8/10” – Maximum Volume Music

“The Canadian band set out to return to their heavy rock roots, and by the sound of things they have very much done just that. This thing is like Prong but with punk vocals over the top, like the really early days of thrash or crossover. The production fits perfectly with the old-school feel too, feeling like it’s ripped right out of the 80s. The vocals really grew on me throughout, him being able to hit some damn impressive high notes! This thing honestly felt like it was too short, I’d love to have had more from them. Especially with the variety shown between the three tracks. Heck, the slower track, ‘On a Sunday’, is my favourite track on the EP, though the other two are close second and third. I somehow missed the band’s album back in January, but I’mma have to go back and check it out now, as I loved this! 8/10″ – Overtone Magazine

[Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics]

EP Title: House of Cards
Release Date: August 21, 2024
Label: Self-Release

Track Listing:
1. Skies are Blackened (2:42)
2. On a Sunday (4:26)
3. House of Cards (The Game Pt.2) (3:38)
EP Length: 10:46

Recording Credits:
All Songs performed by: Murray Emery, Wes Bartram, Jeremy Hartmann
All songs written by: Murray Emery
Produced by: Murray Emery, Reed Alton (Vocals)
Mixed by: Cody Anstey at Clarity Studios, Calgary, Alberta Canada
Mastered by: Cody Anstey at Clarity Studios, Calgary, Alberta Canada
Artwork by: John Garrett
SOCAN Member
MAPL – Canadian content

EP Band Lineup:
Murray Emery (Vocals/Guitar)
Jeremy Hartmann (Guitar)
Trevor MacDonald(Bass)
Wes Bartram (Drums)
Karl Pflug (Drums)

Live Band Lineup:
Murray Emery (Vocals/Guitar)
Jeremy Hartmann (Guitar)
Trevor Macdonald (Bass)
Karl Pflug (Drums)

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

About the EP artwork. Answered by Murray Emery

The artwork by John Garrett is hand painted and then digitized, and is a continuation of the first record. With the conceptual theme of our mascot “Davey” and his travels within the setting of his world. You can see from the first record his captivity within a cage. Which then evolves from the ‘Skies are Blackened’ single artwork foreshadowing the colors and theme of the EP. Davey’s movements reveal his magical powers and a more personal look at his character. We believe the artwork is just as important as the music, creating a feeling and idea around the band that we can use to make better music and perform better live. Hence why all of our album art is hand painted to reflect how organic our process is and stays true to our vintage influence in music taste.

About the EP as a whole. Answered by Karl Pflug

It is a conglomeration of music with multiple elements from varying sub-genres. Which are represented throughout the EP. It then bridges the gap between emotion and life experience to truly connect music to the individual. As a drummer, I love the style changes from song to song as it pushed me to be a better musician, all while keeping the music consistent, even though the songs are so different.

Track by Track.

1. “Skies are Blackened” is a hard hitting, in your face hard rock/metal track rooted in thrash metal influence. Its upbeat tempo and high energy rhythm drives the listener into the anthemic chorus topped with soaring high vocals. Lyrically it speaks on world ideals and how we interact with one another in society under a scoped direction created by the upper echelon of people running our world. This 2:42 track does not overstay its welcome and is a must listen for anyone interested in modern rock and metal that pays homage to its predecessors from the 70s-2000s.

2. “On a Sunday” directs the listener to the calmer angelic side of hard rock. With glassy acoustic guitar and a direct larger than life chorus it appeals to those who dabble in the world of hard rock and heavy metal. Influenced by 90s-2010s modern rock, this song speaks about human interaction in interpersonal relationships. The idea that someone believes they know you but in reality has no concept of your personal perception.

3. “House of Cards” is your go to anthemic hard rock anthem. Ripping guitar harmonies, with a massive and catchy chorus it’s reminiscent of pop punk styling and structure all while remaining rock n roll. This song has everything for every type of listener from musician to casual music fans alike. Lyrically and musically referencing the continuation of “The Game” from the first record.

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

FUN FACTS – STORY ANGLES

1. “Skies are Blackened” was the first song ever written for Prisoner. I had been playing guitar for maybe two years and wrote it in an hour. It was my extreme thrash metal influence at 16 where I wanted to write something quick and simple as a show opener. The boys and I love playing it and it is collectively one of our favorite songs to play.

2. “On a Sunday” was the most unexpected song to come from the Prisoner camp. I had the intro riff on a voice note, and during our travels from Ontario to Alberta we as a band were going through potential ideas. I hated the idea at first, but with a bit of encouragement the boys and I wrote the rest of the song in one afternoon… on a Sunday. Lyrically I feel like everyone has been in a situation where no matter how hard they try, someone just can’t wrap their head around who they are. To me this is a relationship I know well, where someone knew me better than anyone, but also had no clue who I was and what my personal perception of myself was.

3. Prisoner’s first show was in the basement of the original guitar player’s frat house in Guelph, Ontario. The band built the stage out of stolen pallets and plywood behind Home Depot and Walmart. The house was packed and the show/party was shut down by police as people started to show up and party outside as they physically couldn’t get into the house. The roof was shaking and flexing during our performance from everyone jumping above us and we were worried it was going to be our one and only shot at glory before it collapsed. Thankfully we’re still here making music.  The house also had a “mold room” full of old mattresses which made Murray extremely sick for the next 3 shows Prisoner played in Ontario.

4. “Skies are Blackened” was the first song Murray ever wrote for Prisoner.

5. Prisoners drummer Karl was originally a jazz drummer and was introduced to metal when he was adopted into the band. Yet he had insane double pedal chops and his playing left the rest of the band speechless. He is currently going through the discographies of recommended bands from his bandmates.

6. Each member of Prisoner crossed paths before the band’s current formation without knowing each other. Murray met Trevor doing live sound for his band Even Odds and recording their music. He also met Jeremy when he was doing live sound at The King Eddy while Jeremy played in a performance with “Jam Club” at the Bell National Music Center. Trevor knew Karl from high school band and brought him up on the bands search for a “kick ass drummer”

7. We all have day jobs and we find them relatively humorous, but Jeremy’s takes the cake. He works at a basil farm… Which is hilarious because whenever we bring it up to other bands and people in general, they always ask him if he has a “hook up”. Yet he actually grows basil. Which we use on the regular for band made pesto sauce.

L-R – Murray Emery (Guitar/Vocals), Karl Pflug (Drums), Jeremy Hartmann (Guitar), Trevor MacDonald (Bass)

Photo Credit – Mikayla Loschuk

The high-energy Canadian rock band bringing you hard hitting riffs and unmistakably tight grooves. Founded in Calgary Alberta in 2020, Prisoners music is rooted in classic/hard rock, heavy metal, and blues. Influenced by all styles of rock and metal, their classic roots combine with a modern style to create a congruent take on modern rock music. Through the talents of frontman Murray Emery, guitarist Jeremy Hartmann, bassist Trevor Macdonald, and drummer Karl Pflug, Prisoner will deliver audiences the ultimate hard rock experience.

Discography:
2024 – House of Cards (EP) Current
2024 – Prisoner (self titled LP)
2022 – Prisoner of Time (Single)

Shared the stage with:
Osyron, Hazzerd, As Heads is Tails, Karnage through Crossing, Anciients, Flashback, Dead Quiet, Empress, LOVERS, Polluted

Tour/Festivals List:
2024 – Electric Highway Festival – Calgary, AB

0 Rockshots Records – Finnish Thrashers MUTANT BLAST Haunt Fans w/ Horror Inspired Video “Final Day” Off New Album “Soulsteeler” Out Sept 2024

  • July 19, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Mutant Blast

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 19, 2024

Finnish Thrashers MUTANT BLAST Haunt Fans w/ Horror Inspired Video “Final Day”

New Album “Soulsteeler” Out Sept 2024 via Rockshots Records

Featuring a mix of slightly older, re-arranged tracks alongside new compositions, Finnish thrashers Mutant Blast are set to unleash their new album “Soulsteeler” this coming September 2024 via Rockshots Records. The album has been meticulously crafted over the last year and a half with utmost dedication. The band’s sound is characterized as ‘Metal thrashing death’n’roll – and heavy!’. This defining style is evident throughout “Soulsteeler”, featuring powerful riffs, good melodies, and strong songwriting aimed at engaging listeners.

“The album is full of groovy thrash metal songs blasting away in high gear! It contains both slightly older, re-arranged songs and more recent compositions. We hope that as many fans of heavier music as possible will find the band and get to hear the end result!” adds the band.

Today, Mutant Blast unveils their latest single and accompanying video, “Final Day”. This track stands out as the slowest and most atmospheric on the album, yet remains intensely heavy.

The band comments:

“The slowest and very atmospheric, but at the same time very heavy song on the album. We wanted to do something different this time. This song begins with a spooky horror movieish intro which leads to stomping verses and a melodic chorus. The lyrics are also set in a horror movie environment; lost alone and the dread of the unknown.”

Watch and listen to the music video for “Final Day” at https://youtu.be/wwZsyABQVk4

​

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/4fbUIwg

​

Be prepared for tones of death’n’roll, thrash, and heavy metal, and a little bit of hard rock & death metal as “Soulsteeler” is due out on September 6th, 2024, and available for pre-order at https://shop.rockshots.eu/en/home/6938-mutant-blast-soulsteeler.html​

Track Listing:​
1. Satan’s Pawn
2. Alone in the Wasteland
3. Into the Night
4. Black Mass
5. Final Day
6. Acid Rain
7. Mind Control
8. For the Sake of Humanity
9. Prowler (Iron Maiden cover)

For more info:​
​Rockshots.eu​
​https://www.facebook.com/mutantblastband​

​https://www.instagram.com/mutantblastband/​

-30-

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

0 TZIMANI Makes Their Rock N Roll Return With New Single “We Stand And Fight”

  • July 19, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Tzimani

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 19, 2024

TZIMANI Makes Their Rock N Roll Return With New Single “We Stand And Fight”

L-R – Seb Vazquez – Drums, Eddie Vazquez – Guitars, Bass, Synthesizers, Vox
​
Photo Credit: Chris Mcfly

After a five-year hiatus from releasing new material, San Diego, USA’s Tzimani is set to unleash their highly anticipated new single “We Stand and Fight”, on July 19, 2024. This track marks the dynamic duo of brothers Eddie and Seb Vazquez’s bold return to the metal scene, blending old-school heavy metal elements with their unique sound. They comment on the single:

“We Stand and Fight is the rippin’ high-octane opening track to our debut album. We knew from the get-go that this song would be the opening track to the record, with its triumphant and powerful riffs, leads, and battle-themed lyrics about rising to the occasion and fighting for what you believe in, against all odds. Since we wrote the song, it has become our show opener and a live staple when we need to kickstart the crowd and get heads banging.”

You know those albums that you listen to over and over again and you just know when the first song hits your sense of familiarity, nostalgia, warmth, and comfort? That is what Tzimani is trying to encapsulate. The song is straightforward rockin’ heavy metal and they feel it is the best track to kick off the next release cycle and to show all the fans as well as new folks listening to them, what they are capable of.

Despite the relentless touring from 2017 to 2019, the pandemic brought an unexpected slowdown for Tzimani. From 2020 to 2023, the band entered a dormant phase, with limited activity and sporadic performances across California. During this period, however, they remained active in the local scene, using the time to write, record, and finalize their highly anticipated debut album, which can be expected in the near future. They are recommended for fans of Van Halen, Revolution Saints, and Santa Cruz.

Listen to “We Stand and Fight” at the following links:

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yneRSyOlHY

​

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3WerpQK

​

Bandcamp – https://tzimani.bandcamp.com/track/we-stand-and-fight​

More info: https://www.facebook.com/tzimaniofficial | https://www.instagram.com/tzimani_official​

-30-

“Typically, when promo proclaims that a band represents a “bold new take” on a traditional, well-trod style, you can expect the same: yet another forgettable “revitalization” of a sound and aesthetic that has been done to death, reanimated, and then slaughtered by copycats once more. In the case of Tzimani, the status quo is effectively put in its place.” – Sleeping Village

“Electrifying pace sets ‘We Are The Ones’ on fire, hurtling along at full velocity, displaying all the hallmarks associated with the “foot on the monitor” style of traditional heavy metal. Hitting hard like an out of control wrecking ball” – Frenzy Fire / Metal Gods TV

” refreshing heavy rock 8/10″ SoundMagnet (German)

” This two piece hailing from San Diego shredded their way through their set. Straight up heavy metal brothers rocking their way across North America. Eddie can really play the guitar. Each song they played were full of mean riffs and ripping solos.” – Metal As Medicine (Live Review – 2019 – Kelowna, BC)

” They surprised us all when vocalist/guitarist Eddie Vazquez announced that they were the only other band on the bill. It was their best time to shine. Kudos to you Vazquez brothers!… Tzimani set up shop, and made that stage their biatch! Soon enough they began playing songs that were not included in their demo such as “Overdrive,” and dished out their hits “Final Hour” and “Get Me Out Of Here” which are available on their demo. These bros emitted a tremendous confidence and were still glowing from their recent inaugural American tour.” – Ugh Metal (Live Review – 2017 – San Diego, CA)

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

0 EPK – Tzimani – I Feel Fine (2024) – Out Nov 15th

  • July 19, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Tzimani

EPK – Tzimani – I Feel Fine (2024) – Out Nov 15th

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

“You know those albums that you listen to over and over again and you just know when the first song hits your sense of familiarity, nostalgia, warmth, and comfort? That is what we are trying to encapsulate. The album is straightforward heavy metal mixed with modern elements with a dash of AOR and we feel it is the best representation to show everyone what we are capable of. We are also trying to represent the future of the band and give everyone an entry into some of the larger questions that we struggle with and how we choose to represent that with our songwriting. We are not the type of band that is capable of singing about stories, dragons, and swords, but we excel at writing tunes that people can genuinely relate to and connect with.” – Seb V. – Tzimani

For fans Van Halen, Haunt, Striker, Traveler, Skull Fist, Cauldron

Band: Tzimani
AlbumTitle: I Feel Fine
Release Date: Friday, November 15th, 2024
Label: Glory or Death Records (Vinyl), Noize Cartel Records (Digital)

Facebook.com/tzimaniofficial | Instagram.com/tzimani_official | Youtube.com/@tzimaniofficial486

Tzimani.bandcamp.com| Spotify

Vinyl – ​https://www.gloryordeathrecords.com/

“the blistering new single “Haunting” from metal duo Tzimani! Driving speed riffs, AOR keys, breakout solos and soaring vocals make “Haunting” a very cool track.” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll

“Typically, when promo proclaims that a band represents a “bold new take” on a traditional, well-trod style, you can expect the same: yet another forgettable “revitalization” of a sound and aesthetic that has been done to death, reanimated, and then slaughtered by copycats once more. In the case of Tzimani, the status quo is effectively put in its place.” –  Sleeping Village

“Electrifying pace sets ‘We Are The Ones’ on fire, hurtling along at full velocity, displaying all the hallmarks associated with the “foot on the monitor” style of traditional heavy metal. Hitting hard like an out of control wrecking ball” –  Frenzy Fire / Metal Gods TV

“refreshing heavy rock 8/10”  SoundMagnet (German)

” This two piece hailing from San Diego shredded their way through their set. Straight up heavy metal brothers rocking their way across North America. Eddie can really play the guitar. Each song they played were full of mean riffs and ripping solos.” – Metal As Medicine (Live Review – 2019 – Kelowna, BC)

” They surprised us all when vocalist/guitarist Eddie Vazquez announced that they were the only other band on the bill. It was their best time to shine. Kudos to you Vazquez brothers!…  Tzimani set up shop, and made that stage their biatch! Soon enough they began playing songs that were not included in their demo such as “Overdrive,” and dished out their hits “Final Hour” and “Get Me Out Of Here” which are available on their demo. These bros emitted a tremendous confidence and were still glowing from their recent inaugural American tour.” – Ugh Metal (Live Review – 2017 – San Diego, CA)

Band: Tzimani
AlbumTitle: I Feel Fine
Release Date: Friday, November 15th, 2024
Label: Glory or Death Records (Vinyl), Noize Cartel Records (Digital)

Track Listing:
1. We Stand and Fight (4:30)
2. Breaker (3:28)
3. Hold On (4:31)
4. Haunting (3:59)
5. Endless Road (5:24)
6. Bleeding Life (3:29)
7. Empty (3:27)
8. I Feel Fine (4:56)
Album Length: 33:45

Album Recording Credits:
• Song performed by: Seb Vazquez (Drums) and Eddie Vazquez (Vox, Guitars, Bass)
• Song written by: Eddie Vazquez
• Produced by: Eddie Vazquez
• Mixed by: Eddie Vazquez
• Mastered by: Eddie Vazquez
• Album Artwork by: Ryan Bartlett

Band Line Up:
Eddie Vaquez – Guitars, Drums, Vox
Seb Vazquez – Drums

Live Band Line Up:
Eddie Vaquez – Guitars, Drums, Vox
Seb Vazquez – Drums
Robobass 5000 – Bass

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

About The Album Artwork:

Ryan Bartlett based out of Los Angeles has been our go to guy for all things album releases. He did our band logo, band symbol, and our eponymous release, so we wanted him to be able to take the artwork that we have from the EP and transcend it to something more comprehensive and elaborate. He absolutely knocked it out of the park and we think it is his finest piece in his portfolio but that is me being biased because I love it so much. He even went above and beyond and did out templates for physical release and did an incredible job at providing something original but engaging.  – Seb V.

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

This album is our first synthesizer infusion with our sound. I’ve always wanted to blend heavy metal and synth and it’s our first foray into that sound and we think we were able to get it down in a way that works and remains engaging without potentially alienating the focus of the music. It also gives us an opportunity to go in a broader direction with where I want to go musically too. I’d love to go into a synth heavy AOR direction with a rockin’ metal twist. This album gives me that platform.  – Eddie V.

Track by track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY)

We Stand and Fight

We Stand and Fight is a powerful speed metal song that channels the power and energy of early heavy metal to convey a lyrical message about standing up for what you believe in,  against all obstacles.

Breaker

While Tzimani is not an overtly political band, this song is specifically about those who have been scapegoated and blamed for all the ills in the world. Immigrants, are those that are trying to find a better life. This song is definitely more of a rock vibe to it with the midtempo chug but it is something that we like to perform live as a set piece to our shows.

Hold On

I think we all have had enduring issues with loved ones and those we choose to become romantic with. We try our best to make things work and over time we realize that some things are not quite right. The song is about those who struggle to hold on to something that they know it is not right for them in terms of forever. It will eventually be ok as time heals everything, and we have an uplifting tone and drive to the arrangement of the song with galloping double bass lines, sweet guitar leads, and energetic connecting pieces. It also slows down a bit so that the dynamics can speak for how the song is written lyrically.

Haunting

As Eddie said, Haunting is a song about toxic relationships and people having the courage to walk away from them. It can be difficult to realize the strength to make the distance so that is what I wanted to write about with this song. The song is infused with a driving synth-heavy pulse that not only carries the mid-tempo piece with elegance and eloquence it also pieces it all together with a melancholy timbre. It is one of our favorite songs to play and it really opens the dynamic capabilities of the band and what we can achieve sonically.

Endless Road

Musically, this song is going to bend and be closer to what modern heavy music leans to. While it retains the classic Tzimani double bass and heavy but clean rhythms, it has a mood and tone to it that brings the song to a resounding climax in the solo section. We think it is one of our more strong solo sections and it is a song that was written almost ten years ago and we feel that we are ready to release the song after some maturation musically. We all dream of triumph and tribulation and becoming the best that there is to be. This song represents the struggles one may go through the perseverance of building character and fear the loss of strength and the inability to carry on beyond what you personally believe you are capable of.

Bleeding Life

Imagine if Journey decided to write a slightly metal-heavy tune and added some galloping bass drum parts to it. This song represents an allegory of the struggles of daily life and the challenges that come with it. No one ever has it easy, even the dudes that we think do, so this song has more of a sad tone to it to carry the message that we are trying to illustrate musically. We love that this song gives us a lot of room to work with in terms of where we can go musically but its a song that represents a lot of the inner struggles that we each deal with as people, and as people in a band.

Empty

I think we all have had someone that “walked away” on us but really it was a matter of our own doing. We sometimes have to struggle within and deal with our personal demons in order to have a satisfied outlook on life and sometimes our own personal demons can get in the way of our romantic partnerships or people that we hold dearly. It’s a song closer to AOR with a bit of rock to it and we love how we arrange the tune to carry the message forward with clean rhythms, catchy lyrics, and an anthemic solo section.

I Feel Fine

This is Van Halen meets heavy metal all the way, baby. Go put on some 5150 and listen to that rattle and roll that was captured by the band during that point in their tenure. We tried to go with a bit of VH worship but also close out the record with a resounding finish to put the record to a close. Most of the songs in a lot of ways capture some form of inner struggle and this one certainly has the anthemic chorus where we proclaim “I Feel Fine.” The song is about the banality of everyday life. Think about the problems of that most people have to go through and the fact that most have to hide their true feelings. The song has blistering double bass. Massive hooks and a solo break to tie it all together.

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

FUN FACTS / STORY ANGLES

1.We tour in a SUV hauling a trailer. If you ever catch a black Pilot out on the road hauling a trailer at night chances are you will trail us to to a parking lot where we will eventually get cozy and fall asleep. We have this air mattress that we blow up and it fits perfectly when we put all the back seats down. I guess one of the perks of a traveling two man band.

2. We track and engineer all of our stuff in house. Eddie is good as an engineer so he puts all the hard work in the studio process to get a finished product. He really enjoys just playing guitar though and often thinks about hiring on a killer guitar player so he can just be a frontman and really own the stage. As we have learned doing the two-piece for so many years is that you are incredibly limited in how you do a “stage show” so you need to let the songwriting, energy, and live performance do most of the talking.

3. The best tour story that we have ever experienced was having our show in New Mexico get canceled on the same day we were supposed to play there. The promoter called me to give me the bad news but he had a friend that was throwing a garage style party and needed another live act. So he put me into contact with the birthday woman and she gave me an address.

Little did we know that the address was going to take us to backroads Albuquerque and it was sitting on a lot surrounding by two house that we had to drive on unpaved road for a bit. We feared that we would lose control of the vehicle as we were hauling a trailer headed to the place but it was fine. Once we arrive the party, it turned out that it was a backyard biker gang party and that there was going to be pantera tribute as the main entertainment. Think old, rad dudes in bandanas, open carrying, big knives in their waistbands, chain smoking, and real tough looking mfers.

We ended up performing our set to a widely accepting audience with loud hollering and hoots. We tore down and let the Pantera band set up.

Once they got going to kick off the show, the front man announced “WE ARE FROM LA.”

Eddie and I looked at each other thinking “dude this shit is tight! We are playing this garage biker party with another CA band”

Then the frontman goes “LOWER ALBUQUERQUE!” and the guitarist goes right into the opening riff into Cowboys from Hell. We must have openly laughed for a solid 5 minutes straight. It was incredibly well delivered and the seriousness of the gag gave it the punchline it deserved.

That is one hell of way to pitch to someone and it was such an incredible experience given the circumstances of the entire ordeal in New Mexico on that day.

4. Our backing track bassist has two nicknames. Mac Ableton is the one we created, and Robobass 5000 is the one our buddy DJ created. We did one time hear two kids talking shit about us in a bar after we played a set.

One kid goes to another and says “dude did you like that band?” and the kid responds “fuck no. They use auto bass.”

It was hilariously candid and I am sure the kids did not know we were within earshot but we laughed about it and still joke about it to this day. It keeps us grounded and ensures that we don’t take ourselves too seriously. Especially living in the 21st century.

5. Raising Canes is our favorite tour food and we try our damndest to consume it as often as we can while living out on the road. I have tried contacting them through several outlets to try to secure some form of sponsorship but to no avail.

L-R – Eddie Vazquez – Guitars, Bass, Synthesizers, Vox – Seb Vazquez – Drums,
Photo Credit: Chris Mcfly

Tzimani is a dynamic metal duo comprised of brothers Seb and Eddie Vazquez from San Diego CA. Founded in 2017 after the pair split from a previous project, Tzimani sought to revolutionize their musical direction. Seb, a powerhouse on drums, and Eddie, a multi-instrumentalist handling guitars, bass, synthesizers, and vocal duties, hit the ground running with their new sound.

In 2017, Tzimani launched their journey with a demo release, swiftly followed by an ambitious West Coast and Southwest tour. They captivated audiences in key markets like Portland, Seattle, and Texas, rapidly building a dedicated fanbase with their electrifying live performances.

The band’s momentum continued to surge in 2018 with the release of their eponymous self-titled EP. This major release, distributed digitally through Noize Cartel Records, propelled Tzimani into the national spotlight. Their relentless touring schedule took them across North America, including over 100 shows that extended into Canada. Notable festival appearances at the Legions of Metal Festival in 2019 and Hyperspace Metal Festival in 2022 solidified their reputation as a formidable live act.

Tzimani’s sound is a unique fusion of melodic AOR elements and the aggressive, rhythmic intensity of old-school heavy metal. Drawing inspiration from iconic bands like Iron Maiden, Mötley Crüe, Van Halen, and Def Leppard, Tzimani’s music features twin-guitar leads, virtuoso solos, and Seb’s pounding double-bass drumming. Eddie’s vocal phrasing echoes the legendary Dio, while his guitar work channels the spirit of Eddie Van Halen.

Their dedication to the craft saw them included in two significant compilations: “No Legacy” in 2017 and “Metal Assault Mixtape” in 2019. Following the success of their 2018 EP, Tzimani re-released it as an expanded edition in early 2020. This reissue featured two cover songs from W.A.S.P. and Dio, along with their original 2017 demo, aiming to reach a broader audience in anticipation of their next major release.

Despite the relentless touring from 2017 to 2019, the pandemic brought an unexpected slowdown for Tzimani. From 2020 to 2023, the band entered a dormant phase, with limited activity and sporadic performances across California. During this period, however, they remained active in the local scene, using the time to write, record, and finalize their highly anticipated debut album.

As Tzimani prepares to re-emerge, they aim to reclaim the respect and recognition they earned in their early years. Their upcoming 2024 release “I Feel Fine” promises to capture the essence of their relentless energy and innovative sound, heralding a new era for the band. With a legacy of electrifying performances and a sound that bridges the past and future of metal, Tzimani stands poised to make a significant impact on the music scene once again.

Artist Endorsements: Orion Cymbals

Discography:
2024 – I Feel Fine – LP (Glory or Death Records (Vinyl), Noize Cartel Records (Digital)
2024 – We Stand and Fight (single)
2019 – Compilation “Metal Assault Mixtape” – Carry On (song)
2018 – Self-Titled EP
2017 – Compilation “No Legacy Vol. 1” – Final Hour (song)
2017 – Demo

Shared Stage with: Hellfire, Haunt, Bewitcher, Savage Master, Iron Kingdom, Byzantine, Avatar, Great Electric Quest, Toke, Gatekeeper, Mothership, Vicious Rumors, Traveler, Eternal Champion, Witherfall, Paladin, Into Eternity

Tours and Festivals:
2022 – Hyperspace Metal Festival – Vancouver BC
2019 – Final Hour Tour
2019 – Legions of Metal Festival – Chicago
2018 – North American Tour Apr 6- Apr 30
2018 – North American Overdrive Tour
2017 – Overdrive Tour

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