Posts By Asher

0 Echoing the Distance of Life on Tour – Nova Scotia’s HUMAN MISSILE CRISIS Unveils New Video “Mona Lisa”; New EP “Waste Away” Out Now!

December 17, 2025
by Asher
· Human Missile Crisis · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 17, 2025

Echoing the Distance of Life on Tour – Nova Scotia’s HUMAN MISSILE CRISIS Unveils New Video “Mona Lisa”

New EP “Waste Away” Out Now!

L-R – DJ Vaters – Guitar/Vocals, Matthew MacIsaac – Drums, Justin Boutilier – Bass

Nova Scotia punk‑infused garage rock trio Human Missile Crisis has unveiled their brand‑new music video for “Mona Lisa”. The release coincides with the arrival of the band’s new two‑song EP, “Waste Away,” out now.

Recorded live off the floor in a single day at Sound Park Studios with award‑winning engineer Jamie Foulds, “Waste Away” captures the raw intensity and camaraderie that defines Human Missile Crisis. Mixed by Foulds and mastered by Brad Boatright at Audiosiege (Portland, OR), the EP marks the band’s first collaboration with Foulds in over 20 years, dating back to their early days in Violent Theory.

The EP features two distinct tracks. “Snake in the Grass”, a dance‑pit anthem with fast drums, slide guitar, and lyrics about betrayal and vigilance and “Mona Lisa”, a heartfelt rocker with soaring punk choruses, written for shift workers, touring musicians, and anyone who knows the struggle of being away from loved ones during long nights.

Frontman DJ Vaters explains:

“Mona Lisa speaks to the chaos of late‑night schedules and the longing to be home. It’s a song for anyone who’s ever felt that loneliness, and a reminder that you’re not alone.”

Formed by longtime friends and bandmates DJ Vaters (guitar/vocals), Justin Boutilier (bass/backups), and Matthew MacIsaac (drums), Human Missile Crisis has been melting faces in bars and all‑ages venues since 2019. Their sound, described as “energetic punked out garage rock”, draws inspiration from Idles, Fucked Up, Pup, Ty Segall, Propagandhi and The Dirty Nil, while channelling the raw energy of The Stooges and Television.

The band emphasizes connection over fandom:

“We don’t want fans; we want friends and family. Every show is a party, and we give it our all every time.”

With “Waste Away,” Human Missile Crisis continues to evolve from their punk roots into a dynamic garage‑rock force, balancing raw energy with lyrical honesty. The “Mona Lisa” video offers a striking visual companion to the song’s themes of distance, longing, and resilience, further cementing the band’s reputation as one of Nova Scotia’s most exciting underground acts.

Watch and listen to the music video for “Mona Lisa” via its premiere on New Noise Magazine HERE.

HMC’s latest EP “Waste Away”, released on November 14th, 2025 and is available on all digital platforms at https://linktr.ee/humanmissilecrisis

Track Listing:
1. Snake in the Grass – 4:22
2. Mona Lisa – 5:23
EP Length: 9:46

EP Credits:
Recorded at Sound Park Studios by Jamie Foulds on June 1st, 2025
Mixed by Jamie Foulds
Mastered at Audiosiege in Portland, Oregon by Brad Boatright.
All songs written and performed by Human Missile Crisis.
DJ Vaters (Guitar/Vocals)
Justin Boutilier (Bass/Backups)
Matthew MacIsaac (Drums)

More info: https://www.facebook.com/missilecrisis | https://www.instagram.com/humanmissilecrisis

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“When it comes to partying and being young, there are many “highs” and lows, as Human Missile Crisis draws our attention to in their new single “Too Long.”… The clip gives you a good look at these Dartmouth rockers in action. With fuzzed-out guitars and a garage rock spirit, these three young men know how to command a stage. The video captures what they do best: play live. The band members pride themselves on being a high-octane live act. That’s what the video is meant to emphasize: guys who can rock a stage like they rocked their parents’ garage growing up.” – V13

“With it’s thundering and infectious bassline, crunchy guitars, thrashing drums, and gritty heartfelt vocals, Human Missile Crisis easily achieved the powerful and memorable with “Blackwater”.” – Amplify The Noise

“Three friends and a long-standing passion for punk rock and garage, understood in their most jaunty and enjoyable expressions: they are human missile crisis, here grappling with their recording debut. What is striking right from the start is the light-heartedness that expert frequenters of the reference scene such as DJ VATERS, JUSTIN BOUTILIER and MATTHEW MACISAAC have been able to pour into the nine, lightning-fast moments that make up the album; the verve is ironic and semi-serious, the aim is fun, sarcasm and provocation: all elements which, mixed properly with direct and immediate sounds, come to compose a picture that is nothing short of caustic and full of sparkling ideas. The creativity released by the band is contagious: Liquor Store Stories echoes that kind of spontaneity traditionally inherent in the reference genres. And it offers half an hour of healthy entertainment in the name of bombastic pieces in which technique gives way to the desire to play together, to a sense of friendship that emerges with vigor from the grooves of the work and to a spontaneous and genuine approach. A debut that follows the dictates of tradition, proudly claiming its brilliant originality” – Rock Hard Italy

“I had a weird sensation while listening to the massive punch and swagger of “Liquor Store Stories” by Dartmouth, Nova Scotia based Human Missile Crisis. Not only is the title amazing and sounds like an anthology series on Hulu, the crunchy assaulting guitars, the nimble hyper bass lines, atomic drumming and strident vocal scowling aesthetic had me thinking of a 70’s Mod revival rock band instead of a punk outfit, namely, the iconic JAM. Maybe it is the major 7th and miner chords I think I am hearing, maybe it is the vocal countenance that does have a heavier sort of iteration of Weller, and maybe it is the fury of the bass and drums, of everything really. And it also might be the sense of talking about the inner workings of hometowns. By the way, sonically, I also thought of an amalgam of early punk like the Buzzcocks and more current bangers like Prince Daddy & The Hyena.” -Robb Donker Curtius / American Pancake

“Merging elements of Garage Rock and Post-Punk, they end up delivering an exciting song to the listener, with great melodies and which stands out mainly for its great rhythmic work, with its striking bass line and vocals with great melodies.” -Leandro Vianna / Roadie Metal

“Maybe “Blackwater” from Dartmouth, Nova Scotia based Human Missile Crisis is about wishing those who disappeared from your life well, maybe not. Maybe it is all about the glorious noise, the throttling bass bottom heaviness that kicks you in the gut, maybe not. Maybe it is about finding what you are searching for and not dive deep into the blackness to find it, maybe not. In the end, maybe Human Missile Crisis feels like Black Sabbath, The Dead Kennedys, Coachwhips, Bass Drum of Death atom smashed together into something else entirely, something visceral and impactful.” -Robb Donker Curtius / American Pancake

“”Liquor Store Stories” is a single recently dropped by Nova Scotia-based band, Human Missile Crisis. Boasting an infectious energy equipped with melodic vocal flows and anthemic instrumental work, this is a powerful new tune that delivers a unique blend of styles. Elements of punk, garage rock, indie, and emo are all present here, and the band shines brightly by creatively blending all the influences into one full sound.” -Havoc Underground

“”Too Long” is a melody that will really provoke something powerful and luminous in you with its most violent and rhythmic rhythms, capable of awakening the monster that you keep inside of you, this band will shake you with this crazy song bathed in the best alternative sounds and aggressive sounds of punk fused with the darkness of a more balanced rock.” -End Sessions

“‘Too Long’ by Human Missile Crisis is an energetic, aggressive and dark punk and rock whose instruments provide an auditory explosion in the best of the senses, causing a piece of music full of rhythm to be manufactured. While listening to the song I couldn’t stop moving my head back and forth because of how catchy it is, it’s one of those songs that you fall in love with in a second. I loved the song from start to finish and I hope you do too.” -Javier Alfonso / La Caverna

“The album begins with “Do you Remember”, a song that has a powerful guitar in its intro and remains that way, but from the beginning you say this album is not going to stop, it is going to maintain that hard and aggressive rhythm, although They also have California punk songs like “The Spark”, and of course they also have songs like “Distant Memory”, with a slower rhythm, but with the same strength in the voice. This album really has 9 incredible tracks for those who like garage and punk, and also get into slam.” -Miguel Castillo/ La Caverna

“Opening the record is ‘Do You Remember’, a three-minute romp that must be powered by Jack Daniels because the vocals have that tinge of Lemmy about them. The track ebbs and flows for those 180 seconds but always comes back to the punchy punk-rock vibe that is at the core of Liquor Store Stories.” -Dan Hemming / Hard Beat Magazine

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0 Gore House Productions – INSECT INSIDE Unleashes “Hiveborn Abomination” ft. Josh Welshman (Defeated Sanity) From New Album “Reborn in Blight” Out March 2026

December 17, 2025
by Asher
· Insect Inside (Gore House Productions) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 17, 2025

INSECT INSIDE Unleashes “Hiveborn Abomination” ft. Josh Welshman (Defeated Sanity)

New Album “Reborn in Blight” Out March 2026 via Gore House Productions

Gore House Productions is proud to announce the upcoming release of “Reborn in Blight,” the crushing new full-length album from slamming brutalists Insect Inside, arriving worldwide on March 6, 2026. Alongside the announcement, the band unleashes their devastating new single “Hiveborn Abomination”, featuring guest vocals from Josh Welshman of Defeated Sanity.

Listen to this blistering track at the following links:

YouTube – https://youtu.be/OhaFr5xtoEo

Add to Spotify Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/5m0cWWNqF9DdVqamY0i1AY

Emerging from Chelyabinsk’s underground scene, Insect Inside has carved a reputation for its tight and aggressive sound, blending groove-heavy slam with suffocating atmospherics. “Reborn in Blight” marks their second full-length release and showcases the band’s evolution toward a rawer, more visceral tone. Lyrically, the album continues their apocalyptic storytelling, chronicling humanity’s downfall and the rise of the insectoid race.

The album unfolds as a relentless journey through death metal’s most visceral elements, each track carving out its own brutal identity while contributing to a cohesive whole. Fragments erupts as a chaotic burst of groove and sinister atmosphere, distilling the essence of the band’s love for the genre into a concentrated assault. At its core lies Hiveborn Abomination, featuring Josh Welshman of Defeated Sanity, whose guest performance elevates the song into one of the band’s most commanding creations, fusing speed, groove, and atmosphere into a centrepiece of devastating power. Carnal Ruins pays homage to the New York death metal scene with a hardcore, groove-driven tribute that nods to pioneers like Soils Of Fate, Internal Bleeding, and Dying Fetus. The highlights continue with Abhorrent Landscape, where Mr. Ochoa of Cephalotripsy lends guttural weight to the album’s slam-heavy foundation. At the same time, Echoes of the Swallowed Sinners plunges into the darkest lyrical territory, exploring the abyss of humanity’s disfigured souls. Closing with Reborn in Blight, the band weaves groove, speed, and even soaring guitar solos into a monolithic finale, cementing the record as both a brutal and atmospheric statement of their craft.

Insect Inside was formed out of a shared obsession with slamming brutality. They began as a group of friends jamming covers before evolving into a full-fledged force in the brutal death metal realm. Their lineup features seasoned veterans of the Eastern European scene with Bogdan (bass) (Cold Blooded Murder, Traumatomy), Pavel (guitar) (Ocean In My Bath), Daniel (vocals) (Nauseating, Morphogenetic Malformation), and Ivan (drums) ( Nauseating). The band’s collaborative writing process, conducted across different cities, results in a sound that is both meticulously crafted and relentlessly heavy. Live, Insect Inside is notorious for chaotic shows filled with mosh pits, slams, and even fans dressed as dinosaurs.

Drawing inspiration from brutal death and black metal, Insect Inside cites Disentomb, Relics Of Humanity, Cryptopsy, Defeated Sanity, and Vulvectomy among their top influences. The album artwork mirrors the music’s grotesque vision, characterised by gloom, disgust, and apocalyptic themes.

“Reborn in Blight” will be available March 6, 2026, via Gore House Productions.

Album pre-order available on Digital, Vinyl, CD, and Cassette at https://orcd.co/reborn-in-blight

Track Listing:
1. Echoes Of The Swallowed Sinners – 3:31
2. Abhorrent Landscape (feat. Cephalotripsy) – 2:54
3. Fragments – 2:18
4. Putrid Lament – 3:35
5. Hiveborn Abomination (feat. Defeated Sanity) – 2:51
6. Flesh Cathedral – 3:00
7. Obscuration Worship – 1:20
8. Carnal Ruins – 2:45
9. Parasite Messiah (feat. Pestilectomy) – 3:29
10. Reborn In Blight – 5:22

Album and Live Band Line Up:
Daniel Sementsov – Drums
Bogdan Pisavnin – Bass
Pavel Pleshkov – Guitar
Ivan Tyulkin – Vocals

More info:

https://gorehouseproductions.com/

https://www.facebook.com/insectinsideslam

https://www.instagram.com/insect_inside

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“From the Russian city of Zlatoust which overlooks the river Ay, famed for its creation of swords and sabres, beautiful instruments of death, comes the decimating sonic assault of Insect Inside. Lured into the web of Gore House Productions, Insect Inside are now primed to unleash the fear infused death metal of The First Shining Of New Genus on an unsuspecting world… An intro with some impact, the squelch of footsteps through what sounds like a swamp, leading to the cries of some poor victim sets the stage for Insect Inside’s The First Shining of New Genus. Focus on the filth, because that is what this band deliver in spates across nine rough and tough death metal tracks.” – Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life

“Insect Inside relies on unpredictability to elevate beyond the brutal stereotype. Shifting tempos, groovy rhythms, technical leads, pinch harmonics, and flashes of dissonance keep its grinding slams and beatdown sections from growing too stagnant… Insect Inside’s The First Shining of New Genus offers concussive slam that will get you buzzing.” – Angry Metal Guy

“A surprisingly level of hookiness invades Insect Inside, while they still deliver on all of the body-crippling violence you would expect from such an act. The First Shining of New Genus is a release that you can groove along with in addition to getting your daily dose of utter brutality.” – Dead Rhetoric

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0 Exitus Stratagem Records – Matt Miller and Band’s New Video Demonstrates Their “Fiber Tormentum” from Seventh Studio Album Out Now!

December 16, 2025
by Asher
· Matt Miller · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 16, 2025

Matt Miller and Band’s New Video Demonstrates Their “Fiber Tormentum” from Seventh Studio Album Out Now!

L-R – Justice Robinett (Bass), Jordan Kelso (Drums, Synth), Matt Miller (Guitars, Synth), Biko Wright (Vocals)

Photo Credit – Lilly May Everett

Akademia Award-winning producer, engineer, and songwriter Matt Miller has unveiled a brand-new band playthrough video for the crushing instrumental title track of his latest album, “Fiber Tormentum.” The video showcases Matt Miller (guitars, synth), Jordan Kelso (drums, synth), and Justice Robinett (bass), performing the relentless, soaring, and technically precise music that defines the band’s sound.

Formed out of Miller’s solo project during the pandemic, the band has evolved into a dynamic force blending technical death metal, symphonic atmospheres, and epic vocal hooks. After Miller’s successful solo run on the Cyber Shred Tour 2022 with Rings of Saturn, he recruited Kelso, Robinett, and Wright to bring his vision to life. Together, they tracked “Fiber Tormentum,” a concept album weaving sci-fi themes of alien DNA manipulation with blistering riffs and cinematic intensity.

“Fans will be pleasantly surprised. This is the first album as a full band with vocals, and it features the heaviest, most melodic, and most technical music I’ve ever written. It’s overwhelming, catchy, and relentless,” says Miller.

The playthrough video highlights the album’s title track, an instrumental centerpiece that encapsulates the record’s sweeping range, from crushing technical passages to soaring melodic peaks. The band’s chemistry is on full display, offering a glimpse into the immersive live experience they strive to deliver: dynamic, interactive, and unforgettable.

“Fiber Tormentum” draws inspiration from metal titans such as Necrophagist, Wintersun, Symphony X, Nevermore, and The Faceless, while carving out a unique identity that melds precision with emotion. The album artwork, created by Joshua Nassaru Ward, reflects the lyrical concept of humanity’s DNA being manipulated by alien forces, a visual echo of the torment and transformation explored in the music.

With a history of international touring, including support slots for Possessed on their Oblivion Over Europe Tour, and a catalog that spans from instrumental epics to progressive covers, Matt Miller and Band continue to push boundaries. The new playthrough video is both a celebration of devolution and a bold statement of what’s to come.

Experience the next chapter in Matt Miller’s campaign of musical devastation and watch the “Fiber Tormentum” playthrough video now via its premiere on TheProgSpace HERE.

Recommended for fans of Necrophagist, Symphony X, Wintersun, The Faceless, and Death, “Fiber Momentum” (released Sept 12th) is available on all major platforms through Exitus Stratagem Records.

Digital – https://hypeddit.com/mattmiller/fibertormentum

CD – https://www.exsrmusic.com/store/p/wnn3m10s6beq0pbmnot0e17ghvj629

Guitar Playthrough – Descent into Violence – https://youtu.be/RCj0AKSkSTc

Music Video – Effecively Neutralized – https://youtu.be/hJDoR9JL9b8

Band Playthrough – Summoned – https://youtu.be/5FJxxg_dd2k

Track Listing:
1. Descent into Violence (5:04)
2. Summoned (3:33)
3. Effectively Neutralized (4:53)
4. Blight and Disfigurement (3:23)
5. Maimed Paralyzed Dead (3:12)
6. Horror Beyond Comprehension (3:15)
7. Fiber Tormentum (Instrumental) (3:31)
8. Abiotic Origin (3:14)
Album Length: 30:08

Album Lineup:
Matt Miller (Guitars, Synth)
Jordan Kelso (Drums, Synth)
Justice Robinett (Bass)
Biko Wright (Vocals)

For more info:

Exsrmusic.com | Shreded1.com | Facebook.com/matt.miller.96995238 | Instagram.com/mattmiller630

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“All in all, it’s a fascinating song (Effectively Neutralized) — head-spinning and heart-palpitating but also a heavy-hitter and a conjurer of strange, sinister, and haunting visions. In other words, in the space of just five minutes it pulls off a lot of impressive feats. And the well-filmed and well-edited video for it is a perfect complement, in that it shows us how all these talented performers executed all the impressive accomplishments.” – NoCleanSinging

“Hell yeah. Holy moly canoli. Fiverr to Fiber Momentum, and that was the album. This song is Descent into Violence. Holy moly canoli, dude. Go support, Matt Miller. That was absolutely badass. Total shredding. Jordan, also a homie of mine, your drums are incredible. The new singer, Bo, I love the harsh vocals in the clean. Total is it almost the cleans almost reminded me of Queensryche meets Cannibal Corpse. It’s pretty freaking sweet. And of course, Justice always lays down the heavy bass with the beautiful bass faces. But an absolutely incredible album….Matt Miller, you could find him everywhere. He’s an incredible guitar player, one of the best guitar players of our generation. Remember, this is Fiber Tormentum courtesy of Exitus Stratagem Records. So, a huge shout-out to them as well. Matt Miller has so many more songs. If you guys like this song (Descent into Violence), believe me, this guy is an absolute shred master. Not only does he do like a ton of his own originals, he does a ton of covers, and also he’s just a shred master of all sorts. Just exactly how they say, melodic, technical, and death. But I will definitely say the big thing that stands apart about this whole song is great structure, absolutely shredding on all levels, and the vocals are just 100% one-of-a-kind. And I totally enjoyed it. Guys, I love you guys from the bottom of my heart. This has been Matt Miller with his new song, Descent into Violence. Pick up the new album on September 12, Fiber Tormentum.” – Omar Rodriguez – The Metal Mixtape – YouTube Channel

“The songs on “Fiber Tormentum” are rather good, and make for very interesting listening sessions.” – Metal Temple

“”Fiber Tormentum” is a real killer and so refreshingly creative that you can’t help but toast this previously unknown genius in awe! Cheers! 9/10″ – PowerMetal.de

“Soaring, crushing, ferocious, emotive, and relentless, are words that strongly describe Decrepit Shed. The album has a lot to offer from various metal sub-genres and encompasses the best elements of technical guitar playing while still having well-written songs”. – Brave Words

“Monument of Velocity” initially had a different title and was not going to be a Matt Miller release and some of the songs were written with vocals in mind and were not going to be instrumental, however, it turned out to be the sixth of seven powerful albums in his discography. contains eight tracks full of technical and progressive metal eliciting feelings of suspense, and tension while being fun, melodic and brutally heavy. Miller’s melodic and relentless music has a wide range of influences and is recommended for fans of Jeff Loomis, Necrophagist, and Obscura.” – Rock’n’ Load

“Even though Miller’s music is instrumental, he likes to think of the guitar as a voice. Which in turn makes him ask what is the guitar saying? He is able to easily convey emotion, tone, and a story even without the use of vocals. Throughout his releases, his music has developed a more modern sound in both the music and the production. Musically the songs are more well written and a lot of the ideas he writes are being accurately represented. He is always trying to push himself as a musician and this is reflected in his discography. Influenced primarily by technical and progressive death metal with a dash of power metal and symphonic metal as well, Matt Miller’s music is recommended for fans of Obscura, Dragon Force, and Racer X” – Metal Sucks

“Mr. Miller can shred like his fingers are on fire” – Ever-Metal.com

“Matt shreds all over this album with guitar solos galore”. – Transcending the Mundane

“Soaring, crushing, ferocious, and emotive, Miller conveys a wide range of tones throughout his instrumental music. It is recommended for fans of Dragon Force, Racer X, and Jeff Loomis” – Metal-Rules

“For guitar enthusiasts, I guess it is a feast for the eyes and ears.” – Antichrist Magazine

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0 Rockshots Records – Symphonic Black Metal Visionary DAIDALOS Descends Into Darkness With New Single “Dis” From Upcoming Album “Dante” Out Feb 2026

December 16, 2025
by Asher
· Daidalos · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 16, 2025

Symphonic Black Metal Visionary DAIDALOS Descends Into Darkness With New Single “Dis”

New Album “Dante” Out February 20th, 2026

Following the powerful response to the first single “Inferno”, DAIDALOS unveils “Dis”, one of the most dramatic and oppressive chapters of the upcoming album “Dante“. The track is accompanied by an evocative new lyric video marking an important step in the album’s unveiling and placing DAIDALOS on one of the most respected platforms in extreme music.

Where “Inferno” introduced the descent with a sense of momentum and discovery, “Dis” captures the moment where wonder transforms into dread. Fast, dark and ritualistic, the new single reflects “Dante“’s entry into the infernal City of Dis, an oppressive realm where fear becomes a deliberate tool of domination. In the track’s refrain, the faceless voice calling “Enter my fear” embodies the kind of power that preys on the frightened not to protect but to control.

Musically, “Dis” heightens the defining traits of “Dante“: monumental orchestration, dramatic tension and a fusion of symphonic black metal with melancholic undertones. The guitars, recorded and shaped by Nahuel Lozano of Mental Cruelty, cut through the orchestral mass with precision, providing the modern edge that characterizes the album’s sound. As with every composition in DAIDALOS, all orchestrations, drums, vocals and themes were written by Tobias Püschner, maintaining the project’s deeply personal identity as a one-man artistic vision.

Within the conceptual arc of the album, “Dis” stands as a crucial turning point, a descent into a darker, more suffocating level of Hell, mirroring both Dante Alighieri’s text and the political, emotional and spiritual undercurrents that shaped Tobias’ reinterpretation. The track continues to deepen the album’s central themes of doubt, despair and hidden truths between faith and fear; a soundscape described as “more melancholic than evil”, blending orchestration and harshness into one continuous dramatic vision.

For devotees of symphonic and atmospheric black metal, “Dis” resonates with the monumental orchestrations of Fleshgod Apocalypse, the dark theatricality of Dimmu Borgir and the apocalyptic scope of Septicflesh.

The new lyric video offers a visually striking gateway into this chapter of the narrative, further immersing listeners into DAIDALOS’ descent, now deeper, darker and more commanding than ever.

Watch and listen to the lyric video for “Dis” via its premiere on NoCleanSinging HERE.

Digital pre-save – https://lnk.to/Zdalvd

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

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

DIGITAL – http://lnk.to/E9IymE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For fans of: Dimmu Borgir, Fleshgod Apocalypse, Septicflesh

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

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

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0 THE RETICENT Unveils Harrowing New Video “The Bed of Wasps (Those Consumed With Panic)” From Acclaimed Album “Please” Out Now!

December 16, 2025
by Asher
· Music News · The Reticent

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 16, 2025

THE RETICENT Unveils Harrowing New Video “The Bed of Wasps (Those Consumed With Panic)” From Acclaimed Album “Please” Out Now!

Fifth Studio Album “please” Available via Generation Prog Records

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

Photo Credit by Justin H. Reich

The Reticent, the emotionally charged progressive metal project led by Grammy‑nominated music educator and multi‑instrumentalist Chris Hathcock, has released the official video for “The Bed of Wasps (Those Consumed with Panic)”, one of the most visceral and punishing tracks from the band’s latest album, “please,” out now on Generation Prog Records.

“The Bed of Wasps” is the album’s most aggressive and technically demanding moment, a sonic embodiment of panic disorder. Written immediately after Hathcock suffered a real panic attack, the track’s jagged rhythms, dissonant harmonies, and relentless shifts in meter are designed to keep the listener off balance, mirroring the terror and disorientation of the condition itself.

Lyrically, the song is constructed from real statements made by panic‑disorder patients, culminating in the desperate refrain “please stop”, a plea familiar to anyone who has lived through such episodes.

The video amplifies this intensity, plunging viewers into a claustrophobic, escalating psychological spiral. True to The Reticent’s reputation for emotionally devastating performance art, the visuals aim not merely to depict panic, but to induce its sensation.

Watch the video at https://youtu.be/sbugOh1VTR8

The Reticent’s new album “please” is a concept record chronicling the many battlefields of mental illness, insomnia, concealment, panic, depression, dismissal, and the brink of suicide. Hathcock’s writing is deeply autobiographical, each track drawn from lived experience and crafted to immerse listeners in the emotional reality of these struggles.

The album was written in just six months. Drums were recorded in one day, all other instruments in two, but vocals took two weeks, leaving Hathcock with a vocal injury that required six weeks of silence. This is the first Reticent album, almost entirely engineered by Hathcock himself at Silent Muse Studio. Drums were tracked by Jamie King (Between the Buried and Me, The Contortionist) at The Basement Studios, who also mixed and mastered the album. All songs (except “The Bed of Wasps”) were recorded using 6-string guitars, the first time since 2016’s “On The Eve Of A Goodbye.”

Known for its devastatingly emotional live performances, described by Metal Injection as “one of the most heart‑wrenching performances in ProgPower USA history”, The Reticent blends progressive metal, post‑metal, and cinematic storytelling into something wholly its own. The band is slated to appear at the 2026 editions of ProgPower USA in September and ProgPower Europe in October, marking another major milestone for the band’s growing international presence.

Formed as an outlet for Chris Hathcock’s most painful experiences, The Reticent has evolved into a critically acclaimed progressive metal project known for its tragic concept albums and emotionally immersive performances. Previous releases such as “On the Eve of a Goodbye” and “The Oubliette” earned widespread praise, with “The Oubliette” named the #1 essential prog metal album of 2020.

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

CD Order:

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

EU – http://www.generation-prog.com/shop/

Digital Album – https://show.co/MoPdl8W

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

Lyric Video – “The Scorn (Those Who Don’t Understand)” – https://youtu.be/CR-6wCIpasI

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

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

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

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

– 30 –

“The Reticent knocked another emotional album out of the park. please is going to be way up my personal album of the year list and gets a very easy 10/10 for my rankings. I really connected with this album emotionally as I discussed, but musically it is absolutely brilliant as well. As always don’t forget to listen to this, stream it and buy it if you love it like I do.” – Technical Music Review
“the North Carolinian group are masters of melancholy… compositionally brilliant” – The Progressive Subway

“I cannot fault this latest release in any way. Five years has been a long time to wait for it but it’s well worth that wait. I and many others now need to wait with bated breath for whatever Chris comes up with next. It’s guaranteed to be excellent; his track record ensures that. 10/10” – The ProgSpace

“please is not exactly a fun experience, but its message is an important one. It’s an unequivocal declaration that mental illness is very real, millions of people live with it, and many ultimately make the horrific choice not to. The Reticent does an excellent job of bringing this issue to life with thoughtfully crafted music. If the heavy-handed narrative elements had been pared back in exchange for one more quality song, the score below would easily have been half a point higher or more. Notwithstanding, please is a crucial reminder that we don’t know what unseen struggles others might experience. Always be kind; it can make all the difference.” – Angry Metal Guy

“In every record The Reticent has composed, you’re made to feel as if you’re Ebenezer Scrooge as the Ghost of Christmas Past vicariously gives you a crash course of whatever the given subject matter is; please is no exception. This is a metaphor I’ve already used before when previously describing The Reticent’s other records because I find it difficult to explain otherwise. please does take this one step further by making you feel as if you’re the main character experiencing it all as opposed to being a distant spectator on the other records… “The Reticent’s please is as close as anyone could get to portraying the horrors of depression in just fifty minutes.” – Everything Is Noise

“I leave these few words directly for Chris hoping that he sees this. It is absolutely clear that you are a genuine soul, a masterful musician, an inspirational music educator, but more importantly, you’re an amazing son. I never got to know you or your father or your family, but as weird and bold as this sounds coming from a complete stranger on the internet that learned about you solely through the music that you make, I know deep in my gut and heart that he is and always will be immensely proud of you. He lives through you and your music, and although it’s immensely dark, please oozes the passion that he instilled deep inside of you. You are far more than you think you are.” – Everything Is Noise

“I truly believe that even though this is technically a prog metal record, there is enough variation in the styles here that this can and will speak to, and be enjoyed by, a wider audience than just prog metal lovers. In that stead, it is not only one of the best releases of the year for metal, but one of the best releases of the prog genre in general. It is a massive leap forward in the maturity and growth of ‘The Recicent’, and it is a “must own” release…. I would classify it as essential to the collection of any serious prog rock physical media collector.” – Progressive Voyages

“Please, the latest release from the North Carolina prog band The Reticent is a very crazy-sounding album that brings up issues of fear and paranoia in a strange fashion. The feeling of the album is very odd and for a prog album somewhat different and unusual. The emotional aspects of the songs are worried and very obtuse. The Reticent leave a twisted, thoughtful frame in your mind and an urgency that makes things interesting. There is a twisted and demented feeling to the album that makes it groovy. The musicianship is solid with a very hopeless feeling taking center stage and inflecting on all of the instruments. This makes the album somewhat depressive, though it is still very complex and progressive.” – Heavy Music Headquarters
—
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0 CEPHEIDAE VARIABLE Shares New Guitar Playthrough “Zephyr of Ouroboros” Off Debut Album “Primordial Reverie”

December 15, 2025
by Asher
· Cepheidae Variable · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 18, 2025

CEPHEIDAE VARIABLE Shares New Guitar Playthrough “Zephyr of Ouroboros” Off Debut Album “Primordial Reverie”

Out Now! Debut Album “Primordial Reverie” – A Sonic Journey Through Emotion, Evolution, and Imagination

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

Progressive metal solo project Cepheidae Variable has released a striking new guitar playthrough video for “Zephyr of Ouroboros”, a centerpiece track from the debut album “Primordial Reverie”. The video showcases the intricate musicianship and layered storytelling that define the project, offering fans a closer look at the technical and emotional depth behind the music.

Formed by guitarist and composer Ryan Koepke, Cepheidae Variable began as a personal exploration of musical growth, but quickly evolved into a fully realized artistic vision following his father’s cancer diagnosis. The project became both a creative outlet and a deeply personal journey, reflecting life’s turbulence and resilience.

“Primordial Reverie” is a concept album built entirely through instrumentation, weaving orchestral elements, synths, and guitars into three distinct acts. “Zephyr of Ouroboros” marks the conclusion of the album’s first act, opening with a windy soundscape and orchestral arrangement before diving into odd time signatures, soaring violin‑guitar harmonies, and circular song structures that mirror the eternal cycle of the Ouroboros.

Koepke describes his writing process as “like writing a book,” with each track supporting the next to create a cohesive narrative. The playthrough highlights his ability to fuse technical precision with emotional storytelling, drawing influence from bands such as Dream Theater, Haken, Intervals, Wintersun, and Caligula’s Horse.

Released earlier this year, “Primordial Reverie” is available on all major streaming platforms and on CD. The album moves from symphonic fantasy atmospheres to sci‑fi‑infused progressive metal, balancing melody, chaos, and experimentation. With artwork by renowned collage artist Alex Eckman‑Lawn, the record invites listeners to craft their own imaginative journey through its evolving soundscapes.

Cepheidae Variable plans to continue evolving, with future releases potentially expanding beyond instrumental compositions and even beyond the solo format. For now, the “Zephyr of Ouroboros” playthrough offers fans a glimpse into the heart of the project, a fusion of technical mastery, emotional honesty, and boundless creativity.

Watch the playthrough video for “Zephyr of Ouroboros” via its premiere on MetalInsider HERE.

The digital and CD album (released Nov 7th) “Primordial Reverie” is available at https://cepheidaevariable.com/music

Videos:

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

“The Waiting Storm” – https://youtu.be/ohvtVeir32g

“Chromatic Haven” ft. guest solo from Matt Mills at https://youtu.be/eqmuLrQ4Ysg

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

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

– 30 –

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

“Combining symphonic textures, sci-fi ambience, and progressive intricacy, Primordial Reverie explores the balance between chaos and melody, emotion and evolution. Through layers of orchestral arrangements, synths, and guitar-driven storytelling, Ryan invites listeners to experience a sonic voyage through creation, transformation, and reflection.” – Crannk

“It’s easy for instrumental metal, and for progressive metal, to lose their emotional punch in a pile of clever passages. Ryan Koepke does an excellent job maintaining poignancy throughout Primordial Reverie‘s hour-ish run time. This album does feel like a singular journey that takes the listener into different emotional headspaces as the music unfolds.” – Metal Utopia
—
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0 Rockshots Records – Metal From Reunion Island – LOMOR Unveils Single “Tantine Lo Clou” From New Album “Sabouk Rouge” Out Feb 2026

December 12, 2025
by Asher
· Lomor (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 12, 2025

Metal From Reunion Island – LOMOR Unveils Single “Tantine Lo Clou” From New Album “Sabouk Rouge” Out Feb 2026

After the intensity of their latest single “Panzram”, Reunion Island’s thrash metal power trio Lomor return with the official music video for “Tantine Lo Clou”, a new track taken from their upcoming album “Sabouk Rouge“, out February 2026 via Rockshots Records.

Based on a bizarre real-life episode during the band’s French tour in 2023, “Tantine Lo Clou” turns an awkward and hilarious backstage encounter into a wild burst of energy, carried by razor-sharp riffs, frantic rhythms and Lomor’s trademark blend of old-school thrash, punk aggression and Creole attitude. The track showcases the band’s ability to shift seamlessly from dark, violent themes to irreverent storytelling without ever losing momentum.

Musically, the song embodies the raw, unfiltered nature of Lomor’s sound: fast, abrasive guitar work from Eric Castelnau, the pounding precision of Gurvan Cambrai on drums and the tight, overdriven low end of Mathieu “Micha” Michalina on bass guitar. Lyrically, it stands as one of the most humorous and off-beat moments on “Sabouk Rouge” offering listeners a brief escape before the album dives back into heavier topics such as hatred, madness, slavery and human cruelty.

Like the rest of the album, “Tantine Lo Clou” was produced by Lomor, recorded and mixed by Sébastien Camhi at Art Music Studio in France and mastered by Kai Stahlenberg at Kohlekeller Studio in Germany. “Sabouk Rouge” marks the band’s most cohesive and dynamic work to date, pushing their Reunion-born thrash identity into new and sharper territories.

With their authentic old-school spirit, no-click live philosophy and explosive stage presence, Lomor continue to stand out as one of the most unique voices rising from the Indian Ocean’s metal scene.

DIGITAL – http://lnk.to/E9IymE

To celebrate the release, Lomor have unveiled an official music video for “Tantine Lo Clou”, available now on the Rockshots Records YouTube Channel.

VIDEO for “Tantine Lo Clou” – https://youtu.be/fx2FUx0G01c

New album “Sabouk Rouge” out February 6th, 2026.

PRE ORDER – https://rockshots.eu/SaboukRougeCD

Track Listing:
1. Sabouk Rouge – 5:13
2. Tantine Lo Clou – 3:40
3. Meet Your Meat – 3:16
4. Sanctuary – 5:17
5. A Shiny Day For A Vampire – 5:14
6. La Haine – 5:06
7. La Pouss’ – 3:07
8. Panzram – 4:29
9. The Ugly, The Bad & The Bastard – 3:02
10. Kit’ Ta Mère – 4:24
11. Nevroz (feat. S. Camhi) – 2:34
Album Length: 45:22

Lomor Line Up:
– Eric Castelnau (aka Babouk) – Vocals & Guitars
– Gurvan Cambrai (aka Typhvs) – Drums
– Mathieu Michalina (aka Micha) – Bass Guitar

More info: Rockshots.eu | Instagram.com/lomor.music | Facebook.com/lomormusic

About: Lomor is a power trio from Reunion Island (France) delivering an explosive blend of old-school thrash, punk and core metal. Drawing inspiration from Slayer, Testament and Kreator, the band channels the raw spirit of 80s thrash through modern production and unrelenting stage energy.

Formed in 2018 by Eric Castelnau (vocals, guitars), joined by Gurvan Cambrai (drums) and Mathieu “Micha” Michalina (bass), Lomor quickly became one of the loudest voices in the island’s metal scene. Their first single, “Kanyar L’Enfer” (2021), set the tone for their uncompromising sound, followed by their debut full-length “Perseverance of Sickness” (2022), recorded by Sébastien Camhi (Art Music Studio, France). The album was praised by international outlets like Rock Hard France and Legacy.de for its sharp riffing and fierce authenticity.

In 2023, Lomor hit mainland France for their Kanyar Tour, performing seven shows and sharing stages with Akiavel and Mass Hysteria. They also released the live record “Live on Dock“, capturing the raw, chaotic energy that defines their performances.

Now, with their second studio album “Sabouk Rouge” (out February 2026 via Rockshots Records), Lomor dive deeper into the social and historical themes that shaped their identity — from the brutality of slavery on their island to the universal struggle against human madness and oppression. Recorded again with Sébastien Camhi and mastered by Kai Stahlenberg at Kohlekeller Studio (Germany), the album reaffirms Lomor’s old-school ethos while delivering a powerful, modern punch.

Fueled by adrenaline, rebellion and Creole pride, Lomor stands as a unique voice in today’s global metal scene — pure thrash from Reunion Island.

-30-

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0 France’s HighWay Announce New Album “Last Call for Rock’N’Roll” Out April 2026; Unveil First Single “Hi-Way” Out Now!

December 12, 2025
by Asher
· HighWay · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 12, 2025

France’s HighWay Announce New Album “Last Call for Rock’N’Roll” Out April 2026

Unveil First Single “Hi-Way” Out Now!

L-R – Ben Chambert – Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals, Florian Arnaud – Rhythm Guitar, Backing Vocals, Benjamin Folch – Lead Vocals, Cerise Pouillart – Bass, Backing Vocals, Romain Chambert – Drums

Photo Credit – Mr. Cana Photography

French hard rock powerhouse HighWay is back with a vengeance. After the acoustic detour of The Journey (2022), the band returns louder, bolder, and more electric than ever with their sixth studio album, Last Call for Rock’N’Roll, set for release on April 24th, 2026.

The first single, “Hi-Way”, is now streaming and immediately sets the tone for what fans can expect: unstoppable riffs, soaring vocals, and the kind of raw energy that has defined HighWay’s sound for over two decades.

“We realized we’d never written a song called HighWay! All the greats, Motorhead, Iron Maiden, and Black Sabbath, have their eponymous track. So why not us? Musically, it’s a return to the big rock song with a groovy verse, a spooky orchestral bridge, and a riff that fans will love,” explains frontman Ben Chambert.

The single’s accompanying video introduces HighWay’s new line-up, showcasing the band’s explosive live energy. Joining founding brothers Ben and Romain are bassist Cerise Pouillard (formerly of AC/DC tribute Ladies Ballbreaker) and guitarist Florian Arnaud, whose addition brings twin-guitar firepower and massive backing vocals to the band’s stage sound.

Watch and listen to the music video for “Hi-Way” at https://youtu.be/qPYb7fBvNAU

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://kuronekomedia.lnk.to/LCFRnR

Produced, mixed and mastered by Brett Caldas-Lima (Ayreon, Devin Townsend, Megadeth), the album features 12 brand-new tracks that blend power, melody, and emotion in a timeless hard rock spirit. From high-octane anthems like “Bang Bang!” and “Go! Go! Go!” to intimate ballads like “Mayday”, the record explores life’s highs and lows with authenticity and passion.

“Fans will be blown away by this record. After the acoustic break of The Journey (2022), we’re back to pure rock—100% electric, high voltage, but still full of melody, vocals, and surprises. Writing and recording these songs was a passionate process, and with producer Brett Caldas-Lima, we refined every detail. The lyrics are more personal and intimate than ever, reflecting real-life experiences we wanted to share. We feel more mature as songwriters, and we’re proud of this album on every level, songwriting, sound, and production.” – HighWay

Formed in 1999 after being inspired by AC/DC’s “Live at Donington,” HighWay has played over 500 European shows, sharing stages with legends like Michael Schenker Group, Gotthard, Jeff Scott Soto, and Nashville Pussy. With influences ranging from AC/DC and Queen to Aerosmith and Guns N’ Roses, the band has carved out its place in the “new wave of European Classic Hard Rock.”

Now, with “Last Call for Rock’N’Roll,” HighWay is ready to take things to the next level, delivering a massive live sound, unforgettable hooks, and a renewed sense of purpose. Don’t miss the Last Call. HighWay is back and louder than ever.

Due out on April 24, 2026, “Last Call for Rock’N’Roll” is available for album pre-order at https://highwayshop.sumupstore.com/

Track Listing:
1. LAST CALL (FOR ROCK N’ ROLL) – 5:13
2. HI-WAY – 4:40
3. ¡ BANG BANG! – 3:47
4. NINETIES ACTION MOVIE – 5:16
5. PEACE OUT – 5:44
6. MAYDAY – 4:25
7. GO! GO! GO! – 5:48
8. LET ME – 4:54
9. D.K/D.C – 3:16
10. RAT RACE – 6:00
11. ACTION – 4:32
12. (DON’T) LOOK BACK – 5:09
Album Length: 58:48

Album Band Line Up:
Ben Chambert: Lead guitar, Backing vocals
Benjamin Folch: Vocals
Sam Marshal: Bass Guitar, Backing vocals
Romain Chambert: Drums

Live Band Line Up:
Ben Chambert: Lead guitar, Backing vocals
Florian Arnaud: Rhythm guitar, Backing vocals
Benjamin Folch: Vocals
Cerise Pouillart: Bass Guitar, Backing vocals
Romain Chambert: Drums

More info: https://linktr.ee/highway_the_band

– 30 –

“THANK YOU TO HIGHWAY WHO SUPPORTED US ON OURMISSION EUROPEAN TOUR. A GREAT BAND WHO RECEIVED A SUPERB REACTION FROM OUR FANS.” – Michael Schenker

“IT WAS A PLEASURE HAVING YOU GUYS! YOU TRULY LIVE THE ESSENCE OF ROCK N ROLL” – Jeff Scott Soto

“The Journey” proves to be an album of great richness confirming HighWay’s talent.” – Music Waves (2022 – The Journey)

“We let ourselves be lulled by the ever-present groove. The American spirit allows this album, as exemplified by ” Motel in Alabama,” on which Benjamin Folch excels, accompanied by discreet backing vocalists. Here, we navigate through emotion, skill, and warmth. Surprises abound, some truly astonishing. We’re swept away to a Spanish-infused fiesta with ” In the Circus of Madness ,” a genuine gem of exquisite delicacy. Musically, we find club-like and sometimes intimate atmospheres, with light touches of violin and piano (” Have A Beer “), and captivating choirs ( “Freedom “). The finale, “The Journey,” is practically a rock opera. There’s no need to list them all here, as the title “The Journey” says it all. HIGHWAY has what it takes to hold their own against many internationally established bands, and I hope they receive the recognition they deserve. Well done!” Among The Living (2022 – The Journey)

“What 80’s lover will resist this totally festive spirit, which mixes ambition (Become Someone), love of music(I Like It, United States Of Rock’N’Roll), or sex (Mr King Size, Highway O Love) ? All the clichés of the unstoppable album are there, proud to resurrect a past that we thought had disappeared but which was in reality only asleep. Despite some sometimes approximate choruses (Breath of life), HIGHWAY manages to carry me in his luggage every time he listens. That’s why I’m getting carried away… HIGHWAY joins the exclusive club of teams capable of breaking down borders in order to explode abroad. On two conditions: tirelessly travel the roads of France and Navarre in order to convince the public and force themselves to publish a new album within the next eighteen months. Do everything, in short, so that we talk about HIGHWAY. Will promotion, distribution, financial and media resources be there ??? To be continued very, very closely…” – Metal-Integral (2022 – The Journey)

“From start to finish Ben Chambert is literally the driving force behind this album. Exploring melodies influenced by southern Blues Rock, with a heavy taste of early Guns N’ Roses, it immediately grips your attention. And the solos, though short, are very decent. Another interesting feature about Highway that really stands out is the outstanding vocals chorus done in a very Queen-like fashion, without taking the spotlight away from the lead singer Benjamin Folch. Naturally, his voice is very pure Rock oriented, with a taste of whisky to it. Harsh, yet melodic, and capable of diverse vocal arrangements, and a brilliant English fluency. This is brilliantly demonstrated in “Separate Ways”, as well as a Ronnie James Dio reminiscence in “Damned Me”. Jeff Scott Soto, longtime friend as roadrunner of the band, made a strong contribution in «Wake Up». In conclusion, “IV” is a great return from Highway and it won’t disappoint Rock fans, especially those who are already familiar with the band’s work and sonic identity. 8/10” – The Black Planet (IV – 2017)

“So yes, this latest one has been a long time coming, but the result is up to par, high-end hard rock, don’t miss it from this pancake, don’t hesitate to buy, and it more than deserves to support this group! And fingers crossed that the baby will be followed by lots of little brothers and sisters !” – Rock Meeting (2017 – The Chronicle)

“From the 1st note with the assertive blaster ‘Become Someone’ that’s followed up with the old school crackly effect mono blues starting ‘I Like It’ and later the bluesy ballad ‘Freedom’. There is also the amazing acoustic ‘Highway O’ Love’ and the AC/DC Johnson-era guitar sounding ‘On My Knees’ to get excited over. Complete proof that France has some killer bands on offer in the way of Rock!” – Metalville Zine (2011 – United States of Rock n Roll)

“In the end, another beautiful representative of the quality of hard rock in France, delivered by a happy group of friends, and led by a damn good guitarist. To listen but above all to see on stage because the energy and good humor they exude cannot leave you indifferent.” – Aux Portes du Metal (2011 – United States of Rock n Roll)

—-

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0 Thank You, MDs and DJS, for the Airplay Love! \m/\m/ !earshot – The National Loud Chart For the Week Ending: Tuesday, December 9, 2025 #2 Juliet Ruin, #8 Triskelyon | CFBX 92.5FM – Kamloops Loud – #3 Woodhawk, #6 Ivy Gardens | CIVL 101.7 FM – Abbotsford Loud – #1 Triskelyon, #7 Juliet Ruin, #3 Phaeton | CJSR 88.5MHz – Edmonton Loud – #7 Juliet Ruin, #10 Devolver | CJSW 90.9 MHz – Calgary Loud – #2 Juliet Ruin, #5 Ancient Thrones, #9 Born Divided, #10 Phaeton | CJSW 90.9 MHz – Calgary Top 30 – #21 – Juliet Ruin | CICK 93.9 – Smithers Top 30 #15 – Z-Cocoon

December 11, 2025
by Asher
· Ancient Thrones · Born Divided · Devolver · Ivy Gardens · Juliet Ruin · Phaeton · radio charts · Triskelyon · Woodhawk · Z-Cocoon

Thank You, MDs and DJS, for the Airplay Love! \m/\m/

!earshot – The National Loud Chart

For the Week Ending: Tuesday, December 9, 2025

#2 Juliet Ruin, #8 Triskelyon

https://earshot-online.com/charts/index.cfm?intChartTypeID=106&dWeekOfID=2025-12-09

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

CFBX 92.5FM – Kamloops

Loud – #3 Woodhawk, #6 Ivy Gardens

https://earshot-online.com/charts/cfbx.cfm?intChartTypeID=6&dWeekOfID=2025-12-09

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

CIVL 101.7 FM – Abbotsford
Loud – #1 Triskelyon, #7 Juliet Ruin, #3 Phaeton

https://earshot-online.com/charts/civl.cfm?intChartTypeID=6&dWeekOfID=2025-12-09

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

CJSR 88.5MHz – Edmonton
Loud – #7 Juliet Ruin, #10 Devolver

https://earshot-online.com/charts/cjsr.cfm?intChartTypeID=6&dWeekOfID=2025-12-09

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

CJSW 90.9 MHz – Calgary
Loud – #2 Juliet Ruin, #5 Ancient Thrones, #9 Born Divided, #10 Phaeton

https://earshot-online.com/charts/cjsw.cfm?intChartTypeID=6&dWeekOfID=2025-12-09

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

CJSW 90.9 MHz – Calgary
Top 30 – #21 – Juliet Ruin

https://earshot-online.com/charts/cjsw.cfm?dWeekOfID=2025-12-09

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

CICK 93.9 – Smithers
Top 30 #15 – Z-Cocoon

https://earshot-online.com/charts/cick.cfm?dWeekOfID=2025-12-09

0 Exitus Stratagem Records – AITTALA Drops Video for “Ever After” – A Modern Metal Ballad of Conflict and Redemption From Second EP of 2025 “Ill-Gotten Gains”

December 11, 2025
by Asher
· Aittala (Exitus Stratagem Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 11, 2025

AITTALA Drops Video for “Ever After” – A Modern Metal Ballad of Conflict and Redemption

Welcome New Bassist Dane Taylor

EP Out Nov 21st via Exitus Stratagem Records

AITTALA Lineup – Gary ‘Smith’ Zeus (Drums), Eric Aittala (Guitar/Vox), Dane Taylor (Bass)

Genre-defying metal band AITTALA (pronounced EYE-tah-la) has released the official lyric video for “Ever After,” the haunting centerpiece of their second EP of 2025, “Ill-Gotten Gains,” out now via Exitus Stratagem Records.

“Ever After” stands apart as a modern-day metal ballad, weaving heavy riffs with melodic textures to explore themes of internal conflict and the elusive search for redemption. It’s a poignant counterpoint to the chaos-driven narratives of earlier tracks on the EP, offering listeners a glimpse into the emotional depth that defines AITTALA’s songwriting.

Watch the video for “Ever After” via its premiere on MetalInsider HERE.

Released in November 2025, “Ill-Gotten Gains” continues AITTALA’s tradition of blurring genre lines. The EP fuses elements of traditional heavy metal, doom, groove, and progressive influences into a cohesive sonic journey. Lyrically, the songs delve into the darker side of human ambition, chaos for personal gain, the inevitable consequences, and the struggle for absolution.

The EP opens with “Isolation,” a doomy, heavy piece that confronts the fallout of past decisions, setting a dark and reflective tone. The title track, “Ill-Gotten Gains,” follows with a riff-driven intensity that shifts into a crushing interlude, lyrically exploring the exploitation of chaos for personal benefit. “Blacklisted” brings groove and sludge to the forefront, exposing manipulators and serving as a counterpoint to the themes of the earlier songs. The mood softens with “Ever After,” a modern metal ballad that wrestles with internal conflict and the elusive promise of redemption. Closing the EP, “Ashes” channels classic heavy metal energy, telling the story of someone in over their head, dragging others down in their descent.

The EP’s artwork resurrects AITTALA’s infamous mascot Frank, a cartoon pig head in a pentagram, first conceived in 2014 for the album “Effigy”. This updated interpretation of Frank embodies the record’s central theme: the shady figure who thrives in chaos, ready to deliver “ill-gotten gains” for the right price. It’s a fitting visual for a release steeped in stories of exploitation, downfall, and the elusive search for redemption.

AITTALA was formed in 1991 in the Netherlands and quickly became a fixture of the Dutch metal scene, sharing stages with The Gathering and Sadist before disbanding in 1993. Resurrected in 2008, the band has since released six full-length albums and multiple EPs, each showcasing growth while retaining their distinctive voice. With “Ill-Gotten Gains,” AITTALA continues their journey of evolution, proving once again that their sound is impossible to confine to a single genre.

“Ill-Gotten Gains” (released Nov 21) is available from Exitus Stratagem Records – https://hypeddit.com/aittala/illgottengains

Music Video – “Isolation” – https://youtu.be/V5Y_azlkGLg

Music Video – “Ill-Gotten Gains” – https://youtu.be/IjlP92y_sQg

In additional news, AITTALA has welcomed bassist Dane Taylor to the live lineup to join founding member Eric Aittala (guitars/vocals) and drummer Gary “Zeus” Smith (THE FIFTH, ex-MR BLACKWELL). Taylor’s arrival injects fresh energy into the band’s dynamic, reinforcing their commitment to pushing boundaries while staying true to their unique sound.

Track Listing:
1. Isolation – 4:22
2. Ill Gotten Gains – 4:20
3. Black Listed – 3:35
4. Ever After – 4:29
5. Ashes – 3:50
EP Length: 20:37

For more info: Exsrmusic.com | Aittala.com | Facebook.com/aittalamusic | Instagram.com/aittalamusic

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“Six full-lengths, two EPs, strong and steady since 2008. Dang. What keeps North Carolina trio AITTALA going? Sheer compulsion for music making is my guess. There’s nothing like the experience of the real thing, despite the obscene ease and seductive sophistication of AI fakery. To hear and feel heavy music live from their minds and voices and hands of real human beings just like you – well, there’s just nothing like it. Bands with stubborn longevity like Aittala serve as an inspiration to the scene. Pick up an instrument, get to jamming, let your voice be heard. If this is your first encounter with the band, perhaps “Isolation” is as good an introduction as any. Mysterious strumming, powerful emphatic chords, and wall-shaking disruption clears the path for soulful, soaring guitar soloing and somber Gothic intonations.” – Doomed & Stoned (2025)

“Bookended by “Machines (Prologue)” and “Machines (Epilogue)”, the album’s structure feels like a full-circle journey. One that captures the essence of the band’s evolution. The blend of storytelling and heavy music makes it clear why these tracks were worth bringing back. With Machines, Aittala doesn’t just revisit the past. They make it hit harder than ever.” – Amplify The Noise (2025 – Machines EP)

“Captivatingly versatile, genre-connecting with plenty of attitude. An intensely powerful and emotionally captivating Electric Doom/Heavy/Power HouseTrip that is excellent at combining expansive melodies and atmospheric melancholic heavy touch. 8/10” – FFM-Rock (2025 – Machines EP)

“A pure blast of good tunes flying around for life. A retro llike cover artwork, it matches it all. The atmosphere and the old tunes still ringing after so many years like it was yesterday. A very good album to own with pleasure. Aittala is here to stay, get your dose of good tunes 100/100.” – The Metal Mag (2025 – Machines EP)

“Eric Aittala is obviously nostalgic on ‘Machines’. But that in no way means that the sound is frozen in the past. On the contrary, the production is modern and powerful. The individual songs are thus transferred to the here and now. A good album, even if the band is ‘only’ a duo.” – Metalheads Forever Magazine (2025 – Machines EP)

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