Posts By Asher

0 Reminder- Band Submissions End Dec 15th – WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA

December 11, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Wacken Metal Battle Canada

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 11, 2023

Reminder- Band Submissions End Dec 15th – WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA

– One Band To Rule Them All & Play Wacken Open Air 2024 –

WMBC Trailer – https://youtu.be/b55Fh5Vo64k

One band to rule them all! The deadline for band submissions for Wacken Metal Battle Canada 2024 battles is nearing on Friday, Dec 15th. Those that are selected to participate in the battles will have the chance to win their performance slot as the only independent Canadian band to be crowned champion and perform at International Battle at one of the world’s most prestigious and largest metal festivals Wacken Open Air (July 31st – August 3rd) (Attendance of over 80,000 people in Wacken, Germany for over 30 years).

Unsigned bands ONLY can apply. Please fill out your information at the following link (please select Canada and then the City that your band would like to perform in) – https://www.metal-battle.com/countries/

Application deadline for 2024 ends on December 15, 2023, at 11:59 PM PST.

2024 battles will be taking place in the following cities listed below, with the national final being hosted in Edmonton, AB during May (date to be determined):

Vancouver, BC,
Edmonton, AB
Calgary, AB
Toronto, ON
Ottawa, ON
Montreal, QC
Quebec City, QC

The 2023 battles hosted over sixty participating bands from across Canada with Trois-Rivières, QC’s STRIGAMPIRE being selected to represent the country at the international battle that hosts 29 other participating countries at Wacken Open Air. At the 2023 WMBC national final, STRIGAMPIRE performed alongside Western Canadian finalist NECHT (Calgary, AB) and Ontario finalist EATEN BY SHARKS (St. Catharines, ON).

The Wacken Metal Battle Canada national final was held in Toronto, ON on May 13th at Lee’s Palace where the three final bands from Western, Central, and Eastern Canada were judged on various categories of professionalism and musicianship by a panel of experienced industry professionals that included Pedro Almeida (A&P Reacts), Antonio Almeida (A&P Reacts), Noel Peters (Inertia Entertainment), Tim Henderson (BraveWords), Thorsteinn Kolbeinsson (Wacken Metal Battle Iceland), Sarah Lutz (Looters), Kevin Michaud (Front Row Promotions), Luc Laine (CFLX 95.5 FM – Alerte Metallique), Rae Chatten (Rock’n Roam, Live Nation), Mark Tremblay (Metal on Metal Podcast) and JJ Tartaglia (Wacken Metal Battle Canada).

Since 2013, with a pause year in 2017 and 2020 due to COVID-19, Wacken Metal Battle Canada has hosted battles across the country to send one independent metal band to perform at the world’s largest metal festival Wacken Open Air in Wacken, Germany. 2019 saw the festival celebrate its 30th anniversary, but due to Covid, the 2020 and 2021 editions were both canceled. As the metal community regains its strength, Wacken Open Air 2024 will be the 33rd edition of the festival and will be held from July 31st – August 3rd. The 2024 event is already sold out with a line-up that includes Scorpions, Amon Amarth, Blind Guardian, In Extremo, Pain, Beast In Black, and many more. Details here.

Strigampire joins the list of previous winners The Slyde (Toronto, ON – 2019), Centuries of Decay (Toronto, ON – 2018), Profaner (Hamilton, ON – 2016), Vesperia (Toronto, ON – 2015), Mutank (Montreal, QC – 2014), Crimson Shadows (Toronto, ON – 2013).

2023 battles were hosted in Vancouver, BC, Edmonton, AB, Calgary, AB, Toronto, ON, Hamilton, ON, Ottawa, ON, Montreal, QC, and Quebec City, QC.

About:

Wacken Metal Battle Canada is part of an international competition that sees bands from across the country battle each other for the chance to win their spot among 29 other countries’ champions, and represent Canada in an international battle of the bands at the world’s largest outdoor metal festival: Wacken Open Air. The battles have been hosted at the festival for over a decade giving independent bands the opportunity to showcase their talents to an international audience along with the chance to win multiple prizes.

How it works:
Participating cities will host qualifying rounds plus a city final organized by a local city concert promoter where one band will move forward to the Canadian national final (date and city to be determined). The winner of the national final will move on to perform at the Wacken Open Air 2024 and compete against the winners of 29 other countries in a final global battle. All bands will be judged during battle rounds by respected local music industry representatives.

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

Links:
Metal-Battle.com
Facebook.com/MetalBattleCanada.Official
Twitter.com/MetalBattleCan
Instagram.com/MetalBattleCanada.Official

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Promoter Partners:
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0 DEORBIT (ft. members Northless, Ara) Offer Free Download of Instrumental Prog Psych Doom Album “Retrogradient”

December 8, 2023
by Asher
· Deorbit · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 8, 2023

DEORBIT (ft. members Northless, Ara) Offer Free Download of Instrumental Prog Psych Doom Album “Retrogradient”

Unveiling their debut album “Retrogradient” this past November, Milwaukee, USA’s Deorbit (ft. members Northless, Ara) offers up depictions of surreal aspects from the mind of guitarist Jerry Hauppa with each track merging cold aspects of the expanding universe with the organic familiarity of
human understanding.

“Given that there are no lyrics, the music intends to tell the story of each track while allowing room for the listener to interpret the concepts,” adds Hauppa.

An instrumental amalgamation of influences from extreme metal, doom, psychedelic, and progressive, “Retrogradient” is a musical concept with a visual in mind of where our solar system is laid out as a double-helix system, showing the relationship between both the organic and inorganic elements spawned during the creation of the universe. Each track guides you through the realms of the universe and the depths of human understanding.

Hauppa explains the album in further detail:

“‘Retrogradient’ is based on Carl Sagan’s quote: “The cosmos is within us. We are made of star stuff. We are a way for the universe to know itself”. The album ebbs and flows through a planetary adventure, from the origins of humanity during the time of the Big Bang, to the depths of the molten core, onwards to the atmosphere, and everything in between through a natural lens and one that is more surreal.”

Mixed by Dylan Patterson, mastered by Jeff Wojtysiak, and the artwork done by James Becker, Deorbit invites listeners to embark on an unparalleled sonic journey that challenges the boundaries of conventional music. “Retrogradient” seamlessly balances heaviness and clarity, offering complex musicality without compromising the significance of songwriting.

Expanding to reach as many fans across the universe, Deorbit is excited to share “Retrogradient” as a completely FREE download via their Bandcamp – https://deorbitmke.bandcamp.com/album/retrogradient

Spotify – https://sptfy.com/PxLL

Track Listing:
1. Retrogradient – 3:16
2. Perihelion – 4:29
3. Terrakinetic – 4:44
4. Lunambulant – 4:04
5. Glaciovore – 2:57
6. Calderasure – 4:09
7. Senescence – 4:49
8. Stratolith – 5:06
9. Deorbit – 6:54
Album Length: 40:32

Album Credits:
All songs written and performed by Deorbit
Mixed by Dylan Patterson
Mastered by Jeff Wojtysiak
Artwork by James Becker

Recording Band Lineup:
James Becker – Bass, Cello
Jerry Hauppa – Guitar, Hammered Dulcimer
Hurdy Gurdy – Synth, Violin
Antonio Ninham – Drums

More info: Facebook.com/deorbitmke

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“The piece (Stratolith) incorporates elements of soulful doom, prog, and technical metal with a strong emphasis on melodic lines that serve as a kind of vehicle for this bold interstellar journey. Without words, they conjure a soundscape that simply spells adventure.” – Doomed and Stoned

“Milwaukee instrumental band with a kind of proggy post metal grungy/stonerish doom sound.” – The Moshpit – WORT 89.9 FM (Madison, WI)

“Instrumental, progressive, and technical metal fans take note” – The Prog Space

““Perihelion” – is the term for the point in Earth’s orbit when it is closest to the sun, and Deorbit translates this into the most aggressive track on the new album. Fans of challenging, uplifting artists such as Torche, Intronaut, and Voivod will love Deorbit. With dramatic movements and expert instrumentation, the bands music not only takes you on an other-worldly journey, but exploring the contemplative innerspaces you have as well.” – Ghost Cult Magazine

“Retrogradient is an auditory adventure and a cosmic voyage that challenges the boundaries of conventional music, inviting enthusiasts to embark on a journey through the vast realms of the universe and the depths of human understanding.” – Amplify The Noise

““Each track on “Retrogradient” is an artistic depiction of surreal aspects, aiming to merge the cold, expansive nature of the universe with the warmth of human understanding. Without the use of lyrics, Deorbit’s music tells a unique story within each composition, allowing listeners the freedom to interpret the profound concepts presented… This is an excellent debut album… The tunes are fucking massive and the concept a fun one to play with in the imagination. Clearly the guys can play… The entirely arbitrary Patented Dark Juan Blood Splat Rating System awards Deorbit 8/10 for what is a superb debut which is bursting with potential and great music…” 8/10 – Ever Metal

“This is a distinctly heavy set affair throughout, but the defining aspect of the album as a whole can be summarized in the word motion. We get energetic surges or drop downs in tempo by the drummer. The guitars may slow down or speed up independent of what the rhythm section are doing, and alterations from rhythm based riffs to flowing riff textures and back are pulled off in a fluid and seamless manner. What I presume is a dulcimer may chime in with some world music details beneath at times too, and in between all of this the songs themselves may shift between thrash and even a bit of extreme metal in overall direction just as much as stepping down to more traditional heavy metal or doom metal territories. With occasional side steps into gentler and more atmospheric laden territories. If a heavy set variety of progressive metal where a just about constant and fluid motion and movement are key features strikes you as an interesting manner in which to explore this style of music, this is an album to take note of.” – Progressor.net

“No words will be spoken in this interstellar journey as rich as tortuous, with generous melodies and harmonies behind a certain sense of narration. Retrogradient is revealed as an album with finely composed titles, blowing hot and cold, sometimes epic, sometimes more contemplative, in short not to let go and then to interpret as he pleases. Fasten your belts !” – Eklektik Rock

—
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0 Rockshots Records – Out Now! Finnish Fantasy Metal CHAMELION’s Debut Album “Legends & Lores”

December 8, 2023
by Asher
· Chamelion · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 8, 2023

Rockshots Records – Out Now! Finnish Fantasy Metal CHAMELION’s Debut Album “Legends & Lores”

Creating epic symphonic fantasy power metal combined with classical music, including choir, renaissance, and baroque elements, Finland’s CHAMELION‘s debut album “Legends & Lores” is now available as of December 8th from Rockshots Records.

Over the years they have released a few demos with various lineups. They now have a solid quintet of musicians that features founder keyboardist Marco Sneck, Tomi Viiltola (Vocals), Marco Sneck (Keyboards), Jari Satta (Guitars), Jukka Jokikokko (Bass) and Janne Kusmin (Drums).

“Legends & Lores” was recorded in various studios and mixed by a legendary Tampere-based power metal mixer Jussi Kulomaa. Fans can hit the play button, and close their eyes to dive into a fantasy world where might and magic rule. Featuring 10 songs, including its soundtrack intro “The Conquest”, from fast to slow tracks and the epic 10-minute album closer “Glorious Dawn”, fans are encouraged to delve into a musical story that begins right from the start until its end. All are flavored with a combination of nice melodies and song structures. Keyboardist and founder Marco Sneck adds.

“It’s is pure Fantasy Metal. The album is meant to be heard from beginning to end, as all the tracks are lyrically entwined into a chronologically advancing story. There are heroes, elves, magical quests, and other fantasy elements to get listeners all inspired! It is 55 minutes of adventurous heavy metal.”

Recommended for fans of Rhapsody, Twilight Force, Symphony X, Dragonland, and Gloryhammer, CHAMELION‘s “Legends & Lores” is available from Rockshots Records at https://bit.ly/ChamelionCD.

Spotify – https://sptfy.com/PxxB

Music Video – “Hero’s Tale” – https://youtu.be/NT8WuFJDOMI

Track Listing
I. THE CONQUEST – 2:11
II. HERO’S TALE – 5:14
III. THE SHADOWLEADER – 5:23
IV. FAITH AND STEEL – 6:15
V. THE QUEST – 6:01
VI. THE DEMONIC CREATURES OF THE NIGHT – 5:10
VII. THE HAMMER OF THE GODS´ MIGHT – 6:19
VIII. THE KEEPER OF THE HEART – 3:52
IX. THE VALLEY OF THE KINGS – 3:50
X. GLORIOUS DAWN – 10:02
Album Length: 54:23

Chamelion is:
Tomi Viiltola – Vocals
Marco Sneck – Keyboards
Jari Satta – Guitars
Jukka Jokikokko – Bass
Janne Kusmin – Drums

Album Credits:
Production, music, lyrics & arrangements by Marco Sneck
Mixed by Jussi Kulomaa
Mastered by Joni Borodavkin
Recorded by Chamelion, Mika Pohjola & Soundmix, Jari Tuomainen & Studio Sound
Choir & backing vocals by Riitu & Jake Ronkainen, recorded by Jake Ronkainen
Additional bass on track 3 played & recorded by Riku Kyllönen
Narration on track 10 by Marco Sneck
Additional choir & backing vocals by Niina & Marco Sneck
Band logo by Nicolás Oliveros
Band photos by Sami Kettunen / kuvauksellistavaloa.fi
Booklet artwork by Nicolás Oliveros

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0 Out Now! Journey Into The Power Metal Abyss With JUDICATOR’s New EP “I Am The Void”

December 8, 2023
by Asher
· Judicator · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 8, 2023

Out Now! Journey Into The Power Metal Abyss With JUDICATOR’s New EP “I Am The Void”

Left to right: Chad Anderson (Guitar), John Yelland (Vocals), Dayton Andersen (Guitar), Dalton Jolley (Drums), John Dolan (Bass)

Photo Credit – Demii Photography

Strap on your bullet belts and gird up your loins as American power metal stalwarts, Judicator, blaze a trail with their latest offering, the thunderous EP “I Am The Void”. After eleven years of unwavering dedication, numerous time zones, and resilient camaraderie, Judicator emerges once again, wielding a sonic sword that pierces the very fabric of the human experience. The band comments:

“‘I am the Void’ will scratch the itch of two different kinds of Judicator fans. Those who like the new direction of Judicator will enjoy the title track, while those who prefer our older “Cordisco-era” catalog will like “The Curse of Feanor.” There’s something in this EP for everyone.”

Having traversed a discography that spans a decade, Judicator‘s journey has been marked by releases such as “King of Rome”, “The Last Emperor”, and “Let There Be Nothing”. The artwork, a crucial visual counterpart to their sonic tapestry, is once again crafted by the talented Marc Whisnant, known for his work on “The Last Emperor” and “The Majesty of Decay’”. The EP was produced by John Yelland, mixed by Carlos Alvarez at Dirty Viking Audio, and mastered by Brett Caldas-Lima at Tower Studio; the artwork was done by Marc Whisnant.

Lyrically, Judicator continues their exploration of profound themes, grappling with subjects as weighty as cancer, relationships, and mortality. A common thread weaves through all their albums—an unwavering commitment to delving into the human heart and condition. “I Am The Void” is recommended for fans of Iron Savior, Helion Prime, and Blind Guardian.

“I Am The Void” is now available as of December 8th, 2023, at https://judicatormetal.bandcamp.com/ and digital at https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/judicator/i-am-the-void.

Visualizer – “The Curse of Feanor” (Blind Guardian cover) – https://youtu.be/hoyDco3P4Ek

Track Listing:
1. I am the Void (9:01)
2. The Curse of Feanor (5:51)
EP Length: 14:51

More info: Judicatormetal.com | Facebook.com/judicatormetal | Twitter.com/JudicatorMetal | Instagram.com/judicatormetal

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“The Majesty of Decay is simply one of the best power metal albums released in the last few years, and potentially, my favorite Judicator yet.” – Angry Metal Guy

“This album is guaranteed that fans of Judicator will be talking about it for years to come. There are those which will utterly hate this album as a release that has gone too far in one direction. However, this is a gamble which has paid off and ‘The Majesty of Decay’ is not only arguably one of the best albums released this year, but also debatably the best album that Judicator have ever released.” – Metal Digest

“[Judicator is] unmatched when it comes to delivering an illuminating experience that is both energized and heartfelt.” — GBHBL

“Judicator is something new, but still something excellent. And we sing along, with open shirts and fists pointing to the sky.” — Devilution

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
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0 STRATUZ Becomes Venezuela’s Most Successful Death Doom Metal Band of 2023 w/ Four Award Wins At “Premios Metal Hecho en Venezuela”

December 7, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Stratuz

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 7, 2023

STRATUZ Becomes Venezuela’s Most Successful Death Doom Metal Band of 2023 w/ Four Award Wins At “Premios Metal Hecho en Venezuela”

New Album “Osculum Pacis” Out Now!

L-R – Leonardo Rangel (Bass), Geronimo Egea (Guitar), Franklin Berroteran (Vocals, Keyboard), Diego Cabrujas (Drums)

Closing out a fruitful 2023, Stratuz turned out to be the most awarded band of the third edition of “Premios Metal Hecho en Venezuela”, with four award wins, “Best Extreme Band“, “Best Album” for Osculum Pacis, “Best Extreme Vocals” for Franklin Berroterán, and “Best Guitarist” for Gerónimo Egea. These awards recognize the best rock and metal music made in Venezuela in 19 categories.

Undoubtedly, 2023 has been Stratuz’s year, setting precedents and breaking paradigms. The momentum of their album “Osculum Pacis” was named among the best albums of 2022 in more than 20 countries; from there, Stratuz became the first extreme metal band to perform at the Centro Cultural de Arte Moderno with a historic concert on the 17th anniversary of Cresta Metalica Producciones, combining symphonic elements with a live string and choral ensemble. Against all odds, they were nominated for the Pepsi Music Awards, capitalizing on that nomination with a high level of communication work, and ended up winning in the categories “Best Rock Artist” and “Best Rock Album“.

Hailing from Caracas, with almost 40 years of experience and pioneers of extreme metal in the country, Stratuz managed to beat other mainstream bands, which had more media and advertising exposure. Their surprise entry in the Pepsi Music Awards 2023, showed a very positive change in the perception of the content of the record productions, both by the voting members of the Pepsi Music Academy as well as the general public.

In late October, they headlined the Wacken Metal Battle Venezuela, organized by Cresta Metálica Producciones, as a guest band, supporting the bands that competed.

This same year, Stratuz signed with the Wormholedeath record label for the physical distribution of the CD “Osculum Pacis” throughout Europe and America, as well as a Japanese edition.

Osculum Pacis reached the first position in the Jacquin Ravens Top 50 Metal of 2022 and 2023 on the US radio station 99WNRR.

The album “Osculum Pacis” is available on CD / Digital on Stratuzofficial.bandcamp.com and Spotify.

Live video (accompanied by a string ensemble and a choir) “Back To The Sun“ – https://youtu.be/ErVam3miymw

Lyric Video – “Left” – https://youtu.be/uEZEU5mz9lY

Track Listing:
1. Intro – 1:58
2. Morning Star – 3:50
3. Father Amorth (e) – 2:58
4. Holy Grail – 4:36
5. Caelibatus – 4:33
6. In the Name of God – 3:06
7. Back to the Sun – 3:09
8. Sodomized – 4:41
9. Dawn – 5:06
10. Left – 4:57
11. Condemned – 5:26
Album Length: 44:22

Stratuz is:
Franklin Berroterán – Voices and Keyboards
Gerónimo Egea – Guitars
Leonardo Rangel – Bass
Diego Cabrujas – Drums

For more info: Stratuz.info | Facebook.com/stratuzofficial | Twitter.com/stratuzofficial | Instagram.com/stratuz_official

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“The track (Left) begins with grim, quiet strumming and then is ignited with a glowing melody pronounced by the electric piano. Gothic vocals follow, tortured with the thought, “We are alone!” As the song develops, it asks of us, “Is today one day more or one day less in your dreams?” Osculum Pacis is a mighty struggle between light and darkness, that fans of Paradise Lost and Type O Negative should take a fond liking to.” – Doomed and Stoned

“the fathers of Venezuelan death/doom” – Femforgacs

“For me this material is the best of the Latin scene of 2022” (Osculum Pacis) – Metallerium

“Osculum Pacis is a brutally artistic journey with Stratuz, it loudly demonstrates their abilities and vision, which they stayed true to throughout all the changes and dynamic shifts that we’ve been through on this sonic trip. I loved how packed is it with pure emotions of anger, melancholy, and growing brutality.” – ROCK ERA MAGAZINE

“Fans of doom metal, death metal – even black metal, can find something to appreciate with “Osculum Pacis”. For metalheads who like their metal dark and more mature with its themes, this is a great release to sink your teeth into.” – Team Brutal

It is an album, a record that can captivate anyone who loves music, both for its lyrical content and for its musical enrichment within rock in different trends and trends, along with orchestral arrangements that surround you. Without a doubt, a musical production for export.” – Cresta Metalica

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
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0 \m/ Thank You So Much For The Radio Love Canadian MDs and DJs \m/ September 2023 – top 20 Loud – #2 Vortex, #6 Black Pestilence, #19 HARDBALL | September 2023 – top 200 – #118 – Kilmore | October 2023 – top 20 Loud – #2 Black Pestilence, #7 – HARDBALL | October 2023 – top 200 – #75 – HARDBALL, #199 – Display Of Decay – Gore House Productions

December 7, 2023
by Asher
· black pestilence · Display of Decay · Hardball · Kilmore · Music News · Vortex

\m/ Thank You So Much For The Radio Love Canadian MDs and DJs \m/

September 2023 – top 20 Loud – #2 Vortex Band, #6 Black Pestilence, #19 HARDBALL

https://earshot-online.com/charts/2023/September/loud.cfm

===

September 2023 – top 200 – #118 – Kilmore

https://earshot-online.com/charts/2023/September/top200.cfm

===

October 2023 – top 20 Loud – #2 Black Pestilence, #7 – HARDBALL

https://earshot-online.com/charts/2023/October/loud.cfm

===

October 2023 – top 200 – #75 – HARDBALL, #199 – Display Of Decay – Gore House Productions

https://earshot-online.com/charts/2023/October/top200.cfm

0 Get Ready For Power Thrash Battle w/ MINDRAZER’s New Lyric Video “Crusader” Off New Album “A Thing of Nightmares” (Produced by Kevin Antreassian – Dillinger Escape Plan)

December 7, 2023
by Asher
· Mindrazer (Misanthropic Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 7, 2023

Get Ready For Power Thrash Battle w/ MINDRAZER’s New Lyric Video “Crusader”

Out Now! New Album “A Thing of Nightmares” (Produced by Kevin Antreassian – Dillinger Escape Plan)

Combining the anthemic melodies of traditional and power metal, the precise, aggressive attack of thrash, and twists of dark intensity borrowed from second-wave black metal, Jersey, USA’s Mindrazer plays a style as familiar as it is fresh. Their debut album, “A Thing of Nightmares” (Produced by Kevin Antreassian – The Dillinger Escape Plan) was released this past October via the label Misanthropic Records and to demonstrate it to new fans who have yet to discover them, they have a new lyric video for their battle-ready track “Crusader”.

It’s a frenetic epic with an infectious riff along with constant twists and turns that paint the picture of riding into battle to fight on a blood-covered, snowy battlefield in medieval Finland. Nick DeFuria (Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitar, Classical Guitar, Additional Percussion) and Brian Weissman (Drums, Percussion, Harsh Vocals) recorded an actual sword fight live in the studio for the song. They brought in swords they got at a Renaissance fair and spent an hour screaming and bashing them together to make layers and layers of a battle sound effect. They explain the track in further detail:

“Crusader is the epic orgasm of the album. Telling the seldom-told tale of the Crusade of Finland, this song is a whirlwind of technical riffs, melodies, and epic proportions. Blazing guitar harmonies, machine gun lyrics, and a drum solo bring this album to its peak. It covers three key signatures and changes time signatures twice and it even features a real sword fight recorded by the band for this song. Another goosebumps moment for sure if there ever was one, This brings the record to its conclusion with a bang.”

Watch and listen to “Crusader” at https://youtu.be/wx3hkGHMPdY

Mindrazer‘s latest offering promises to be a bold, brutal, and diverse exploration of melodic thrash metal, which even before its official release, was igniting mosh pits at the band’s live shows. Now, with the album’s availability, fans can delve into the depths of these tracks and experience them in all their glory.

The writing for the tracks on the album spans a large period of evolution, which can be heard as one progresses through the album. “Knightfall”, the earliest work, is much more power metal, upbeat, and melodic. “Better Dead”, another early song, is very riff-focused and old-school sounding. “Crusader” and “Suffer In Silence”, the later tracks on the record are great examples of how that power metal vibe never really left but the music got heavier and more technical. Each of the ten tracks offers epic melodies and frenetic dynamics that metalheads will be eager to sink their teeth into.

“We are so pumped to finally share ‘A Thing of Nightmares’, the culmination of half a decade of artistic inspiration, with the masses. We tried to make a top-to-bottom-worthy album for the playlist age that still maintained some semblance of cohesion and vibe without becoming stale. We didn’t reinvent the wheel here but we made an album for the modern listener sense that still calls upon all of those old-school influences that made metal such a fanatical genre in the first place. We hope you dig it.” adds the band.

Release on October 13, 2023, “A Thing of Nightmares” is recommended for fans of Iron Maiden, Megadeth, and Blind Guardian and is available on Spotify, Apple Music, and Officialmindrazer.bandcamp.com.

Music Video – Entombed In Time – https://youtu.be/XF-PDJcIirg

Track Listing:
1. Entombed In Time (5:36)
2. Suffer in Silence (4:05)
3. Left to Rot (6:09)
4. In the Corner of Your Eye (6:06)
5. Knightfall (5:35)
6. The Misanthropist (6:11)
7. Extractor (4:51)
8. Better Dead (4:07)
9. Crusader (6:25)
10. Mercy (1:12)
Album Length: 50:22

Album Recording Lineup:
Nick DeFuria – Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitar, Classical Guitar, Additional Percussion
Vin “Hawky” Verducci – Bass Guitar
Brian Weissman – Drums, Percussion, Harsh Vocals
Zack Larmer – Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals
Featuring a guest guitar solo from Mo Uddin on track 7

Live Band Lineup:
Nick DeFuria – Lead Vocals and Guitar
Vin “Hawky” Verducci – Bass Guitar
Brian Weissman – Drums, Harsh Vocals
Patrick Wentz – Guitar and Harsh Vocals

More info: Mindrazerband.wixsite.com/home | Instagram.com/mindrazerofficial | Facebook.com/mindrazerofficial

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“The lyrics of “A Thing of Nightmares” reflect dark themes that fit perfectly with the intense music. Mindrazer manage to create a dark atmosphere that captivates the listener. This album is a must for fans of Iron Maiden, Megadeth and Blind Guardian. It’s a powerful statement from a band that doesn’t allow itself to be locked into genre boundaries, but rather courageously explores new paths.” – Amplified Magazin

“I have to say the singer has a very interesting style. There is aggression and attitude with his voice, but he has a powerful almost operatic vibrato too, it’s very cool. Think Nevermore’s frontman… The leads are actually very good though, I’m reminded of Megadeth’s Marty Friedman. The solos have a similarly expressive vibrato and there is plenty of flashiness mixed with well judged melody.” – Metal Rules

“The Bruce worship is strong but pulled off very well! I like the contrast between the powerful clean vocals and ultra thrash instrumental portion. The bass pops very well and the drums are frantic but on point.” – Cutting Edge Metal (USA)

“Entombed in Time stands out for its old school thrash metal concept accompanied by the fantastic and live sounding performances of Mindrazer.” -Metalhead Community Magazine (Switzerland)

“Good songs, really good guitar, even better vocalist; they’ll go far!” -Mark Wasserman, 3 and 1 Grab Productions, Live Sound: Nick Cannon’s “Wild n’ Out”, Barclay Center, Madison Square Garden, Staples Center, Arco Arena etc.

“It was an insane show! At one point the lead singer who was also playing guitar, steps out in front, puts his arm up, points a finger down and starts moving it in a circle like he’s indicating to the crowd “I want you to make a circle pit now” and you felt the entire mood of the room just change. Everyone got ready and they played this really heavy song. It was so good!” – WRCU-FM Radio Into the Pit

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0 STRIKER Joins Legions of Metal 2024 Lineup w/ Unleash The Archers, Hirax and more! + New Music Video “Circle of Evil” From New Album “ULTRAPOWER” Out Feb 2024; Produced by Josh Schroeder (Lorna Shore, Tallah, King 810)

December 7, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Striker

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 7, 2023

STRIKER Joins Legions of Metal 2024 Lineup w/ Unleash The Archers, Hirax and more!

New Music Video “Circle of Evil” From Seventh Studio Album “ULTRAPOWER” Out Feb 2024

Produced by Josh Schroeder (Lorna Shore, Tallah, King 810)

Clockwise – L-R – Dan Cleary – Vocals, John Simon Fallon – Guitar, Pete Klassen – Bass, Tim Brown – Guitar
Photo Credit: Dana Zuk

Canadian shredders STRIKER announce they will be joining the Legions of Metal 2024 lineup being hosted in Chicago, IL on May 3rd and 4th at Reggie’s – info. They will be performing alongside Unleash The Archers, WatchTower, Hirax, Mourn The Light, Ice Howl among more to be announced at a later date.

STRIKER is preparing to unleash their seventh studio album “ULTRAPOWER” on February 2, 2024. They recently shared their latest single “Circle of Evil” accompanied by a music video. This punishing classic metal track brings STRIKER back to its roots of speed and power.

“Secret societies, shape-shifting reptilians, and evil forces? You’d be running for your life too. We’ve got the nuclear codes and we are launching heavy metal nukes directly into your ears.” adds the band.

Watch “Circle of Evil” at https://youtu.be/YrG-mSSvIeo

Spotify – https://sptfy.com/PbKP

“ULTRAPOWER” follows their Juno Award-winning self-released full-length “Play to Win” (2018) released on their label Record Breaking Records and features the band’s latest lineup addition of long-time friend and guitarist John Simon Fallon (The Order of Chaos). For the band’s seventh full-length, they teamed up with producer Josh Schroeder (Lorna Shore, Tallah, King 810), entering the studio this past March. With the band writing material since 2018, “ULTRAPOWER” is a collection of five years of Striker tinkering and exploring new avenues.

“ULTRAPOWER is the Striker’s triumphant return to reality. The reality is that shredding rules and nothing can stand in its way. There are classic banger Striker songs, to dabbling in punk style choruses into full-on concept songs. There’s a lot to sink your teeth into if you’ve got the guts.” adds vocalist Dan Cleary.

STRIKER recently wrapped up their fan-supported Kickstarter campaign with exclusive special edition CDs, Vinyl, and merch to aid them with upcoming physical production, marketing, and artwork. Fans supporting the Kickstarter gave STRIKER the ability to continue as an independent band.

“Seriously… a MASSIVE thank you to everyone for your support! Some of you took us over the finish line at the last minute, breaking into the 30K tier. This means we’ll be crankin’ out some Special Edition CDs with extra bonus tracks! Fire it up!!”

Track listing, Album Artwork, singles, and tour dates will revealed at a later date.

Previous single “Best of the Best of the Best” (2023), which will be featured on the album can be viewed and heard below.

“Best of the Best of the Best” – https://youtu.be/0oX9LFx2szs

More info: Striker-metal.com | Facebook.com/strikermetal | Twitter.com/StrikerMetal | Instagram.com/strikermetal

About: Blending classic heavy metal, hard rock, and 80’s hair metal, Striker has been making shredtacular anthems since 2007. The band has toured multiple times across Europe and North America along with festival appearances at 70,000 Tons of Metal, Bang Your Head Festival (Germany), and more to add to the almost 1000 shows performed in their decade-plus career. The band has been honoured with multiple Best Album awards in their home country of Canada from the JUNO Awards, Western Canadian Music Awards, and the Edmonton Music Awards. Since their inception, Striker has released six studio albums Eyes in the Night (2010, Iron Kodex), Armed to The Teeth (2012, Napalm), City of Gold (2014, Napalm), Stand in the Fire (2016, Record Breaking), Striker (2017, Record Breaking), and Play to Win (2018, Record Breaking).

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“Play to Win, which might be their most balanced effort yet. It’s their most catchy, too: the likelihood you’ll be singing along with every song before they finish is very, very high.” – Metal Sucks

“expertly combined killer arena rock choruses with well-done, cleaner verses.” – Metal Injection

“Six albums in six years. That is something almost unheard of, even in the modern era of production that considerably lessens the time needed to record and mix albums. Striker always seems to provide a new album right around when I start to wonder, “Hey, I wonder what Striker is up to?”. PLAY TO WIN is the band’s 6th LP and to my ears, one of their best. Rest assured, the band has not altered their sound. This is still classic metal, mixed with modern elements that continues to leave all pretenders in a cloud of choking dust.” – Metal Rules

“You can hear influences ranging from Dokken to Metallica on Play to Win, and it’s all done with masterful songwriting, performances and production. This is a slick, aggressively-mixed record that drips with excitement and replayability… Striker have produced their best record since City of Gold, and all fans of straight-up hard rock and metal need to own this album.” – Heavy Music HQ

“Striker have knocked this one out of the park and into the stratosphere. You’d be hard-pressed to find a catchier slice of fine cheddar this year, and I’d highly recommend it.” – New Noise Mag

“STRIKER have done it again. They hath given unto thee one monster of a metal album that simply begs to be put on REPEAT.” – Amps And Green Screens

““Catchy choruses, well-crafted riffs and squealing solos are woven throughout… Play to Win is another solid effort from Striker.” – The Metal Crypt

“Striker gush with so much enthusiasm here, with explosive riffs swirling between the vibrant harmonies and choruses, that it’s hard not to notice…Tracks like “Former Glory” and “Born to Lose” are anthemic, catchy as hell and feature soaring vocals from Dan Cleary and terrific guitar work by Tim Brown…On Striker, the band take a host of influences and hone them into a sound they can call their own.” – Exclaim!

“From the first storm-summoning power chord on the opener Former Glory, Striker (CAN) proves their new album’s initial claim of not dwelling on the past, a high and appropriate cry of “Yeah, I’m back again!”… If you haven’t witnessed this inspiring resurrection of classic metal, the band plays Friday, April 14 at Starlite with Ravenous and Tylor Dory Trio, no doubt sharpened from the faithful overseas audiences.” – Edmonton Journal

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0 FOETAL JUICE Announces UK Tour Dates For New Album “Grotesque” Out Now! via Gore House Productions

December 6, 2023
by Asher
· Foetal Juice (Gore House Productions) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 6, 2023

FOETAL JUICE Announces UK Tour Dates For New Album “Grotesque” Out Now! via Gore House Productions

Foetal Juice “Grotesque” UK Release Shows:
Dec 8 – Leeds – Boom Leeds
Dec 9 – Nottingham – The Chameleon
Feb 2 – Manchester – Aatma
Feb 3 – London – The Underworld Camden
Feb 17 – Glasgow – Audio Glasgow
Feb 23 – York – The Fulford Arms
Feb 24 – Birmingham – TBA

Events Info can be found here.

(L-R): Lewis Bridges (Bass), Derek Carley (Vocals), Ryan Whittaker (Guitar), Rob Harris (Drums)

Photo Credit – Karen Carley

Prepare to be horrified as England’s Foetal Juice dives into a myriad of sick and twisted topics on their latest release “Grotesque”. This is the ninth instalment in their disgusting and deranged discography that has been swelling like an abscess since 2005. It’s a relentless barrage of blast beats, horror and gore that will have you questioning your sanity.

On “Grotesque”, the band blends the harsh nuances of grindcore, death and black metal, infusing them with inescapably high-quality musicianship and endearingly insalubrious lyrics, to produce superior, revolting extreme metal, and an audial experience akin to the pleasure of perforating a throbbing, rancid boil; immensely satisfying and intensely disgusting. They comment on this new release:

“We really wanted to push our abilities as far as we could with this one by introducing speeds and techniques we haven’t used in the past. I think overall we have accomplished this and even added other elements such as the intro to the last song. It’s a route we have never taken before but it has turned out really well. We are very happy with the results.”

Foetal Juice’s sound is a melting pot of influences, ranging from death metal and grindcore to black metal, gore, groove, thrash, and even Enya. Their evolution as a band has brought new dimensions to their music, incorporating diverse elements while staying true to their death metal roots.

Notorious for their catalogue of unpleasantries and musical vulgarities, this album promises to be heavier, catchier, faster, and more aggressive than anything they’ve ever done before. It’s a relentless assault on the senses, and Foetal Juice is ready to claim its place in the annals of brutal death metal.

“Grotesque” was produced, mixed and mastered by Chris Fielding and the album artwork was done by Misanthropic Art that captures the desperation of humankind. It is recommended listening for aficionados of brutality and gore, and those who enjoy Cannibal Corpse, Deicide, and Vomitory.

“Grotesque” was released on November 17th, 2023 via Gore House Productions and is available for album order (Cassette/ CD)/digital) at https://orcd.co/grotesque.

Lyric Video – Legion of the Grotesque – https://youtu.be/NSoU2PuPZHo

Music Video –Ghoul Amongst the Mouldering Dead” – https://youtu.be/3aGbvw-cQL4

Track Listings:
1. Human Beach Master (3:50)
2. Mountain of Gore (3:10)
3.: Legion of the Grotesque (4:45)
4. Ghoul Amongst the Mouldering Dead (3:37)
5. Two Bongs Don’t Make a Right (1:26)
6. Cunt of the Litter (3:19)
7. Cemetery Leachate (4:39)
8. The Walking Groin (3:35)
9. Torn Apart (3:30)
10. F. K. E. O (3:59)
11. Gruesome (5:10)
Album Length: 41:06

More Info:

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

Facebook.com/foetaljuice | Twitter.com/FoetalJuice | Instagram.com/foetaljuice

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“Grotesque is an absolute maelstrom of sound that is satisfyingly punchy, chugging and impactful. It makes you want to hear more.” – Metal Talk

“The main impact of the album is to shoot terrific amounts of voltage straight into your brainstorm, to pump hearts, to convulse muscles, and to suck the wind from your lungs. See for yourselves.” – NoCleanSinging

““Grotesque” by name and definitely by nature this is 40 minutes of joyously twisted groovy Death Metal with hooks for days… in a year of excellent Death Metal it can still go toe to toe with the best of the bunch. This Christmas give someone you love the gift of gore. 8.5/10” – Ever-Metal

“Foetal Juice are recognized for their twisted and brutal amplification of virtuosic and violent musical assault. The album continues, said callous, promising a cataclysmic symphony of ferocity… The track (“Legion of the Grotesque”) moves more like a macabre exploration of the consequences of excessive cosmetic surgery. Despite the grim themes, Foetal Juice’s technical skillset is evident, which enhances the grotesque subjects, similar to writing a horror film. Their music, a relentless blend of grind and death metal, is unapologetic sonic devastation, recommended fans of Vomitory, Napalm Death, and Terrorizer.” – Metal Insider

“In the 3 years since the release of Gluttony, and I must say you have really seen a huge growth from the band and Grotesque is an absolute monster record, well deserving of anyone who has an interest in the genre. It has enough of the hooks and grooves which will be of interest to your more casual death metal fan whilst remaining absolutely mean with a viscous twist for those with a more hardened ear towards the underground.” – The Razor’s Edge

“Grotesque is a stonker of a record, completely worth your time and a strong contender for album of the year. Foetal Juice have made a rod for their own back now, having to try and top this with their next record, which I already look forward to. For now, another few listens to Grotesque will more than tide me over. 10/10” – Musipedia Metal

“with their intense, careening style of chaos hitting the spot time after time. Like a bludgeoning mace to your consciousness, ‘Grotesque’ is one of the more distatefully straightforward pieces of extreme music you’ll hear this year, and it’s all the better for it. A killer effort.” – The Killchain

“Your eyes will water, your ears will bleed, your muscles will ache, your sphincter will tighten, your guts will churn, and you may even vomit. It’s fucking Foetal Juice and it’s fucking Grotesque. Never change you lovable noise-mongers.” – Games, Brrraiiins & A Headgbanging Life

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0 Gore House Prod. – Guts, Gore, and More Awaits In “Skid Row Slasher” From STAGES OF DECOMPOSITION Off New Album “Raptures of Psychopathy” Out Feb 2024

December 6, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Stages of Decomposition (Gore House Productions)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 6, 2023

Guts, Gore, and More Awaits In “Skid Row Slasher” From STAGES OF DECOMPOSITION

New Album “Raptures of Psychopathy” Out Feb 2024 From Gore House Productions

Since the release of their brutal debut “Piles of Rotting Flesh”, the relentless purveyors of brutal L.A. death grind, Stages of Decomposition are back with a gritty, slamming single titled “Skid Row Slasher”. This track, along with the video, is the first look at their gruesome third album “Raptures of Psychopathy”, which will be released this coming February 2024 from Gore House Productions. “Skid Row Slasher” delves into the haunting tale of the murderers who terrorized the homeless community in the infamous L.A. neighborhood. The band explains in further detail:

“This song is about the infamous Skid Row Slasher and the Skid Row Stabber, both murderers who roamed the streets for victims. We wanted to make this song our first single to represent our theme of serial killers but also represent our city of Los Angeles in a twisted way of how psychotic L.A. can be.”

Known for their massive and impactful delivery of extreme brutality, Stages of Decomposition fuses heart-splitting blast beats, corpulent riffage, and sickening gutturals to create a destructive performance that channels raw primitive energy from the crowd. The band’s unique blend of slamming brutal LA death grind captivates audiences, leaving them entranced in the horrors depicted in their music.

Commenting on their creative process, the band explains that they brainstorm riffs and rhythms during practice sessions, and collaboratively shape the music with the raw brutality of their signature sound. Each song embodies a concept relative to the overall theme of the album, exploring all facets of the general horror theme – from movies to serial killers, events, etc.

“Raptures of Psychopathy” is a visceral exploration of the dark and macabre, a hallmark of Stages of Decomposition’s thematic approach. Coming out on February 2, 2024, by Gore House Productions, it is recommended for fans of Mortician, Dying Fetus, and Devourment.

Watch the video for “Skid Row Slasher” via its worldwide premiere on NoCleanSinging HERE.

Digital pre-save- https://orcd.co/sod-skidrowslasher

Album pre-order – https://orcd.co/raptures-of-psychopathy

Track Listing:
1. Drilling of the Cerebellum – 4:59
2. What Lies Within – 3:10
3. Beast of Jersey 2:42
4. Killing Under Possession – 3:36
5. Murder by Proxy – 3:26
6. Skid Row Slasher – 3:36
7. Carve out the Eyes – 2:37
8. Fetal Devourment – 3:04
9. Crawl Space Burial – 3:12
10. Human Extermination – 3:46
11. Mass Psychosis – 2:09
Album Length: 36:19

More info:

Gorehouseproductions.com | Facebook.com/StagesofDecomposition | Instagram.com/stagesofdecomposition_official

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“This is pure bang your head ‘till it pulps music. From growling guitars to smash the kit into pieces drumming, then snarling vocals, and a horror tinge (as we’ll see). It’s only right that they’re signed to Gorehouse Productions… Stages of Decomposition are tight, they can be felt as well as heard. The album (Piles of Rotting Flesh) is consistent with no weak moments. You will bleed, this will hurt. For proof check the official video below.” – Severed-Cinema

“It’s a brutal assault on your ears in the same style as bands like Cannibal Corpse.” – Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life (EP – Crawl Space Burial)

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