Posts By Asher

0 Streaming Now! LA Extreme Metal Shapeshifters ASHEN HORDE Fifth Studio Album “The Harvest”

April 30, 2026
by Asher
· ASHEN HORDE · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 30, 2026

Streaming Now! LA Extreme Metal Shapeshifters ASHEN HORDE Fifth Studio Album “The Harvest”

L-R – Trevor Portz – Guitar, Bass, Harmony Vocals – Karl Chamberlain – Vocals – Robin Stone: Drums

Los Angeles extreme metal shapeshifters Ashen Horde will be unleashing their long‑awaited fifth album, “The Harvest,” on May 1st, 2026. Before the album officially releases, they have teamed up with Metal Addicts for its full stream premiere.

LISTEN HERE.

Expanding their genre‑defying approach with their most dynamic and thematically unified work to date, “The Harvest” marks the band’s first full‑length with vocalist Karl Chamberlain, whose wide‑ranging performance pushes the group into new melodic and emotional territory.

The album arrives following a trio of singles that showcased the record’s breadth and intensity. The first single, “Entropy and Ecstasy,” arrived with a music video and introduced fans to the album’s overarching theme of endings, a thread woven throughout the record’s eight tracks. The second single, “Voids in the Ash,” delivered a haunting, grunge‑tinged descent into the final days of Pompeii. Most recently, the band unleashed “Apparition,” the album’s heaviest and most harrowing track, told from the perspective of a ghost condemned to witness humanity’s worst impulses.

Recorded entirely remotely, “The Harvest” represents the full evolution of Ashen Horde from a one‑man endeavor into a fully realized extreme‑metal force. While the band’s earlier albums centered on singular narratives, this record takes a different direction. As guitarist and founder Trevor Portz notes, it isn’t a traditional concept album, but its songs are tied together by a unifying theme: endings. Those endings appear in many forms: societal collapse, mythic destruction, personal downfall, and the natural cycle of decay, expressed through a sound that moves fluidly between black‑metal intensity, death‑metal weight, progressive twists, grunge‑tinged harmonies, and melodic introspection.

Across its eight tracks, the album moves from the slow‑rising, Pagan‑inspired “Autumnal” into the chaotic “Entropy and Ecstasy,” the genre‑blending critique of “Backward Momentum,” and the moody Pompeii narrative of “Voids in the Ash.” “Remnant” delivers a storm‑bound tragedy, while “A Place in the Rot” reflects on mortality through a Swamp Thing lens. “The Apparition” stands as the album’s heaviest and most harrowing moment before the record closes with “The Harvest,” a finale shaped by Iceland’s surreal landscapes and the album’s striking red‑skeleton artwork.

For over 10 years, Ashen Horde has crafted extreme metal that defies easy categorization. Rooted in black and death metal but unafraid to incorporate progressive, melodic, and alternative influences, the band appeals to fans of Opeth, Enslaved, Amorphis, Ihsahn, and other genre‑bending heavyweights.

Album pre-order (release date May 1, 2026) available on limited splatter vinyl and CD (along with t-shirt bundles) on Bandcamp, as well as everywhere digitally – https://ashenhorde.bandcamp.com/album/the-harvest

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/artist/6X2Yg7WkfOx0NCuX98FnTb

Music Video – Ecstasy and Entropy – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zud62AXzvsw

Music Video – Voids in the Ash – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-tcwbsxNHg

Visualizer – Apparition – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4Doe6X8bZs

Tour Dates:
May 14 – Montclair, NJ – The Meatlocker
May 15 – Wallingford, CT – Cherry Street Station
May 16 – Brattleboro, VT – Midnight’s

Track Listing:
1. Autumnal (6:12)
2. Entropy and Ecstasy (5:47)
3. Backward Momentum (5:21)
4. Voids in the Ash (5:41)
5. Remnant (4:37)
6. A Place in the Rot (4:38)
7. Apparition (4:57)
8. The Harvest (5:46)
Album Length: 43:03

Credits:
Mixed by Ricardo Borges and mastered by Tony Lindgren at Fascination Street Studios
Artwork by Venus Kohana (venuskohana.com)

Lineup:
Trevor Portz: Guitar, Bass, Harmony Vocals
Karl Chamberlain: Vocals
Robin Stone: Drums

More Info:

https://www.facebook.com/AshenHorde/

https://www.instagram.com/ashenhorde

-30-

“The harvest is coming! The new Ashen Horde album is a multi-faceted journey into every nook and cranny of extreme metal. “The Harvest” is challenging and quirky, but unlike a lot of other progressive/experimental releases, it never loses track of the key ingredient in music – good songwriting. All tracks are well-crafted and interesting in their own right, and the skillful instrumental performances are more like the icing on the cake and not the main focus. Highly recommended!” – Nik Sundin (Dark Tranquillity)

“plenty of listeners will undoubtedly enjoy this, and the musical ability of this outfit is beyond question.” – Musika (2026 – The Harvest)

“The song (Entropy and Ectasy) captures this dichotomy of collapse and exhilaration — of entropy and ecstasy — through a fast-spinning (and head-spinning) kaleidoscope of sound. The moods of the music change along the way, but even the relatively slower and more desolate passages include inventive and intriguing nuances. Karl Chamberlain’s remarkably multi-faceted voice is a perfect match for the remarkably multi-faceted nature of the music. He expels brutal death metal gutturals and ripping black metal screams, but he also sends his singing voice in ravishing upward arcs that are spine-tingling to hear, and down into gloomy troughs. As for the surrounding music, it’s intricate and exhilarating, especially when the band are in full flight, discharging rapidly darting and maniacally swirling notes, incendiary bursts of tremolo’d delirium, or riffing that feverishly slashes with vicious, serrated edges. In less frantic phases, the music dismally groans and throbs, creating a pall of desolation, even when Chamberlain’s voice might be reaching for the clouds. The fretwork also includes angular progressions that generate moods of disorientation and fearfulness, and the song further includes an astonishing guitar solo that all by itself seems to capture the song’s thematic dichotomy of collapse and jubilation. Perhaps needless to say, Robin Stone’s drumming is as constantly changing as everything else, and surgically crafted to match all the other head-spinning, pulse-pounding, and heart-sinking twists in this shapeshifter of a song.” – No Clean Singing

“The Harvest boldly and confidently opens up a new chapter for Ashen Horde. For a rough idea of where The Harvest is coming from, think a mix of Anaal Nathrakh, Enslaved, Ihsahn, In Mourning, and Tómarúm. Indeed, fans of bands like those would do well to make a beeline for The Harvest. Ashen Horde have produced a well-rounded album that’s extremely enjoyable. I think we may have found a real contender for Antimony‘s crown. Time will tell for sure. For now, The Harvest is a top tier album you need in your life. Essential listening.” – Wonderbox Metal

“Antimony; 3/5 rating; “the sound Ashen Horde has developed over three albums is pretty much theirs alone. It’s a dense but accessible approach that rewards both casual listens and sustained attention.” – Angry Metal Guy (2023 – Antimony)

“Equal parts blackened madness, death metal riffing, and clean vocals, “The Neophyte” should get just about anyone stoked for Antimony.” – Metal Injection (2023 – Antimony)

“an amazing odyssey all around and the amount of remarkable coherency as well as the instrumentation work and musicianship is just top notch.” – Metal Purgatory (2023 – Antimony)

“Progression like what Ashen Horde has undergone over the years is what the best tales in the underground are made out of.” – Head-Banger Reviews (2023 – Antimony)

“Fallen Cathedrals; 4.0 rating; “I can’t recommend this enough for fans of black and death metals being combined in unique ways.” – Angry Metal Guy (2019 – Fallen Cathedrals)

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

0 EPK – As Oceans Divide – Self-Titled (2026)

April 30, 2026
by Asher
· As Oceans Divide · EPKs

EPK – As Oceans Divide – Self-Titled (2026)

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

For fans of Killswitch Engage, As I Lay Dying, All That Remains, Unearth, God Forbid

“This record came from a very real place for all of us. It’s a reflection of everything we’ve experienced over the past while, personally and as a band, and that naturally shaped both the sound and the message. There was no interest in forcing a concept. It was more about being honest and letting the music speak for where we were at.”

“We wanted to create something that people can sit with from start to finish and actually feel. There’s a lot of contrast throughout the album, heavy, aggressive moments balanced with melody and atmosphere, but it all serves the same purpose. Nothing is there just for the sake of it.”

“Lyrically, it deals with struggle, loss, and confronting what’s beneath the surface, but also finding a way to push through that. Musically, it’s more focused and dynamic than anything we’ve done before. Every part is intentional.”

“At the end of the day, this album is about feeling something real. Whether that’s intensity, reflection, or release, we want people to connect with it in their own way.”

Asoceansdivide.com | Facebook.com/asoceansdivide | X.com/as_oceansdivide

Youtube.com/@AsOceansDivide | Instagram.com/asoceansdivide

Asoceansdivideband.bandcamp.com | Spotify

“All in all this is what I would consider a technically and musically perfect release! This is likely to end up in my Top Ten this year. If you like Killswitch, As I Lay Dying, All That Remains, Unearth, and God Forbid, then you’ll like As Oceans Divide. 10/10″ – Ever Metal

“At 18 minutes and change, As Oceans Divide positions themselves in a great spot to make quite a splash because of this self-titled EP. The sum of parts in experience will pay handsomely, as this is yet another Canadian act to really champion in this early stage because the following will blossom as opportunities come knocking their way. 8.5/10″ – Dead Rhetoric

“The band are insanely talented and have a VERY bright future ahead of them if they keep putting out music like this. I have no qualms in saying that this is one of my favourite EPs of the year so far, and it’s up against some stiff competition there, too! If you have even a passing interest in the heavier side of music, give this a listen ASAP, you’re bounce to love it as much as I do! 9/10, I already can’t wait to hear more from them!” – Overtone Magazine

“As Oceans Divide proves that a band capable of writing strong songs, performing them with conviction, and delivering them with flawless production can still surprise. A truly great discovery that already makes you eager to hear what comes next.” – T-Rex Sound

““Their self-titled debut EP is nothing short of ruthless and to the point.. The abrasive drums and dazzling guitar tones are the star of the show across the EP… It’s a throwback to the boots-on-the-ground metalcore rising of the early 2000s… it’s just good catchy metalcore. And there’s nothing wrong with that in the slightest.” – Noizze UK

“The Canadians really impressed us with their metalcore sound – even more so as it’s their debut release. Highly, highly recommended.” – Metal Sub Terra

[Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics]

EP Title: Self-Titled
Release Date: July 9, 2026
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: DistroKid
Genre: Metalcore
Location of Band: Ontario, Canada

Track Listing:
1. Into The Dying Light – 4:04
2. White Noise – 3:31
3. World Collapse – 3:16
4. Cursed Oblivion – 3:59
5. One Of The Herd – 3:25
EP Length: 18:15

EP Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: As Oceans Divide
• All songs written by: As Oceans Divide
• Produced by: Thomas Ireland
• Mixed by: Thomas Ireland
• Mastered by: Chris Donaldson
• Album Artwork by: Mikio Murakami (Silent Q Design)
• Are you a Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Album Band Line Up:
Tom Emmans – Vocals
Thomas Ireland – Guitar
Eric Camilleri – Guitar
Matt McGuire – Drums

Live Band Line Up:
Tom Emmans – Vocals
Thomas Ireland – Guitar
Eric Camilleri – Guitar
Matt McGuire – Drums
Mark Sorge – Bass

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

About the EP Artwork:

The artwork centers around a crest featuring a sea serpent bound in chains and wrapped around an anchor, set against a violent ocean backdrop. It represents the tension between control and chaos, something powerful trying to break free while being held down.

The serpent symbolizes the emotional weight and intensity that lives beneath the surface, while the chains reflect restraint, internal struggle, and the pressure of carrying that weight. The anchor adds another layer, representing both stability and the feeling of being pulled under, depending on how you look at it.

Visually, it mirrors the balance in our music between aggression and melody. There’s a constant push and pull between heaviness and atmosphere, just like the imagery suggests.

Overall, the artwork captures themes of struggle, depth, and resilience, facing what’s beneath the surface rather than running from it.

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

As a whole, the EP is built around contrast, both lyrically and musically. There’s a constant push between heaviness and melody, aggression and atmosphere, chaos and control. That balance is really at the core of what defines our sound.

Musically, it blends technical, hard-hitting elements with more dynamic and melodic sections, allowing each song to breathe while still maintaining intensity. There’s a strong focus on structure and flow, so every track feels like a journey rather than just a collection of parts.

Lyrically, the album explores themes of internal struggle, loss, resilience, and confronting what lies beneath the surface. A lot of it comes from real experiences, and there’s an emphasis on emotional honesty, turning those moments into something listeners can connect with in their own way.

Everything ties together to create an immersive experience. It’s meant to pull the listener in, hit hard when it needs to, and still leave space for reflection.

Track by Track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

Into The Dying Light is built around the idea of confronting the end, whether that’s death, inner collapse, or the breaking point of everything someone is carrying, and choosing to face it head-on rather than surrender to it.

Lyrically, the song explores themes of inner struggle, regret, and the weight of the past, with recurring imagery of being pulled down by those experiences. There’s a constant tension between giving in and pushing forward. Lines like “regrets like chains” reinforce that feeling of being held back, while the repeated return to “I walk into the dying light” becomes a statement of acceptance and defiance at the same time.

As the song progresses, that mindset shifts. What starts as something that feels like surrender evolves into resistance, culminating in a refusal to break or disappear. It walks a line between letting go and fighting back, leaving the interpretation open: is it acceptance, transcendence, or survival?

Musically, the track mirrors that journey. It moves between aggressive, technical sections and more melodic, atmospheric moments, allowing the emotion in the lyrics to fully land. The heavier parts drive the sense of urgency and pressure, while the melodic elements create space and depth.

The dynamic vocal performance plays a key role in that contrast, shifting between intensity and clarity to match the emotional weight of each section. Everything builds toward a final release that feels both heavy and cathartic.

Overall, Into The Dying Light sets the tone for the band’s sound, balancing heaviness with melody, and intensity with emotional depth.

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

STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS ABOUT THE BAND:

1. Matt (Aquila) and Tom’s (Odium) previous bands toured together. Embarked on a journey together all the way to the East Coast and back. Playing shows from Ontario to Quebec, to New Brunswick, all the way to the Bay of Fundy. Aquila and Odium developed a great bond together and have memories we will never forget.

2. Thomas Ireland’s band Battlesoul once showed up to open for Aquila in St.Thomas, Ontario, and blew us away. They wore kilts and put on one of the most intense shows we have ever seen.

3. Eric Camilleri is and once was one of the most established metal promoters in the Hamilton area. Booking acts like Beneath the Massacre, Despised Icon, Arch Enemy, Cryptopsy, and way, way more. He worked under the name Chaos Promotions.

4. Thomas Ireland has been a studio engineer for the past two decades, working with bands like Crimson Shadows, Primalfrost, Vesperia, and the recently reformed Blood of Christ, and many more.
https://exclaim.ca/music/article/icehouse_studio_brings_scandinavian_death_sounds_to_goderich_ontario

5. Matt McGuire also currently plays for Cowboys From Hell, an established Pantera Tribute band. Playing bars and theatres.

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

As Oceans Divide, forged from years of friendship and a shared legacy in Canadian metal, is a new heavy force rising out of Ontario, Canada. Featuring members with roots in recognized acts such as Bloodshoteye, Aquila, Odium, and Battlesoul, the band brings together a lineup of seasoned musicians whose combined history gives their sound undeniable weight and authenticity.

Blending soaring melody with crushing rhythms, As Oceans Divide channels the heart of early 2000s metalcore through a modern lens. Their music moves effortlessly between harmonized guitars, driving mid-tempo anthems, and high-intensity metalcore assaults, all anchored by the dynamic power of vocalist Tom Emmans, the precision of drummer Matt McGuire, the creative foundation of guitarist Eric Camilleri, and the technical mastery of guitarist/producer Thomas Ireland. The result is a sound that is as emotional as it is aggressive, built on experience rather than imitation.

Their upcoming debut release showcases a band with relentless ambition and a clear musical identity, explosive, melodic, and unfiltered. With no interest in boundaries or trends, As Oceans Divide stands poised to carve out their own space, delivering music fueled by brotherhood, history, and two decades of dedication to the craft. This is a band built to leave a mark, and they’re only just getting started.

0 Thank You Canadian MDs and Djs for the airplay love! \m/\m/ !earshot – The National Loud Chart For the Week Ending: Tuesday, April 28, 2026 #6 Haiduk | CFBX 92.5FM – Kamloops Loud – #3 Haiduk | CJLO 1690AM – Montreal Loud – #5 Thunderor – Boonsdale Records | CJSR 88.5FM – Edmonton Loud – #9 Insect Inside Gore House Productions | CJSW 90.9FM – Calgary Loud – #6 Haiduk, #7 Grave Mass End Game Records Inc | CFOU 89.1FM – Trois-Rivieres Top 30 – #26 Thunderor Boonsdale Records

April 29, 2026
by Asher
· GraveMass · Haiduk · Insect Inside (Gore House Productions) · radio charts · Thunderor

Thank You Canadian MDs and Djs for the airplay love! \m/\m/
!earshot – The National Loud Chart
For the Week Ending: Tuesday, April 28, 2026
#6 Haiduk
https://earshot-online.com/charts/index.cfm?intChartTypeID=106&dWeekOfID=2026-04-28
========
CFBX 92.5FM – Kamloops
Loud – #3 Haiduk
https://earshot-online.com/charts/cfbx.cfm?intChartTypeID=6&dWeekOfID=2026-04-28
========
CJLO 1690AM – Montreal
Loud – #5 Thunderor – Boonsdale Records
https://earshot-online.com/charts/cjlo.cfm?intChartTypeID=6&dWeekOfID=2026-04-28
=======
CJSR 88.5FM – Edmonton
Loud – #9 Insect Inside Gore House Productions
https://earshot-online.com/charts/cjsr.cfm?intChartTypeID=6&dWeekOfID=2026-04-28
=======
CJSW 90.9FM – Calgary
Loud – #6 Haiduk, #7 Grave Mass End Game Records Inc
https://earshot-online.com/charts/cjsw.cfm?intChartTypeID=6&dWeekOfID=2026-04-28
=======
CFOU 89.1FM – Trois-Rivieres
Top 30 – #26 Thunderor Boonsdale Records
https://earshot-online.com/charts/cfou.cfm?dWeekOfID=2026-04-28

0 NYC Thrashers ANOTHER DEMON Announces New Show Dates – Supporting Vicious Rumors on Sept 11th in Hamden, CT + New EP “As Above So Below” ft. guest James Murphy (Testament, Death, Obituary)

April 29, 2026
by Asher
· Another Demon · Music News · Uncategorized

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 29, 2026

NYC Thrashers ANOTHER DEMON Announces New Show Dates – Supporting Vicious Rumors on Sept 11th in Hamden, CT

New EP “As Above So Below” ft. guest James Murphy (Testament, Death, Obituary)

L-R – Dave English – Drums, Jun Takeshita – Lead Guitars, Max Capshaw – Vocals, Frank Tosi – Lead Guitars, Fred Romer – Bass

Photo Credit: Michael Corwin

Another Demon has announced two upcoming live performances, including a September 11th show supporting Vicious Rumors at The Cellar On Treadwell in Hamden, CT, and another on May 9th in Peekskill, NY, continuing their push across the Northeast metal circuit as momentum builds behind their latest release.

Show Dates:

May 9 – Peeksill, NY – Slainte – w/ Assault, Shatterhand, Avari

Sept 11 – Hamden, CT – w/ Vicious Rumors, The Unknown, Mutant – info

These shows arrive as the rising thrash force celebrates the official re‑release of their debut EP “As Above So Below,” out now as of April 18th, 2026, via Ragebreed Records, with global digital distribution through Earache Records. Originally issued independently, the EP now returns with expanded reach and renewed visibility, further cementing the band’s fast‑growing presence in the modern thrash landscape.

The re‑release also highlights one of the EP’s defining moments: a guest appearance by legendary guitarist James Murphy (Testament, Death, Obituary) on the track “Drawn and Quartered.” Murphy’s contribution adds a historic stamp of extreme‑metal pedigree to the band’s already razor‑sharp sound.

Another Demon defines their sonic identity in five words: Powerful, Fast, Aggressive, Thrashing, Evil. The band believes the EP’s wider release will resonate strongly with new listeners.

“Those who haven’t heard it yet will feel instantly familiar with what we do, and instantly want more,” says guitarist Frank Tosi.

Crafted from years of dormant ideas and revived creative drive, “As Above So Below” blends classic thrash roots with atmospheric tension, horror‑driven storytelling, and a modern edge. The six tracks form a cohesive descent into horror, dystopia, and spiritual unraveling. From the frantic Evil Dead-inspired chaos of “Reduced to Ash” to the crushing crisis‑of‑faith intensity of “Deaf Gods,” the EP moves through relentless riff‑driven aggression with “Skull Vessel.” Its standout moment, “Drawn and Quartered,” features Murphy’s blistering guest performance. The atmosphere then shifts into ominous, cinematic territory with “War March,” before the title track “As Above So Below” ties the record together through themes of duality, chaos, and spiritual inversion.

Formed in 2023, Another Demon is built from decades of collective experience across the NY/NJ/CT heavy‑music scene. Max Capshaw (Bass/Vocals) brings a hardcore pedigree from Sick of It All, H2O, Murphy’s Law, Burn, and more. Frank Tosi (Lead Guitar) is the primary songwriter, shaping the band’s tight, riff‑forward thrash identity. Jun Takeshita (Lead Guitar) blends 80s thrash with Japanese punk/metal intensity, expanding the band’s melodic and technical range. Dave English (Drums) delivers precision, power, and dynamic rhythmic control.

“The more we’ve played together, the deeper our musical bond has grown. We’ve become a unit that knows how to read each other extremely well,” adds Tosi.

With the EP’s global re‑release and new shows on the horizon, Another Demon is preparing to push further into the U.S. metal circuit. Their next full‑length album is already in development, promising an even broader and more collaborative expression of the band’s identity.

“We write these songs to satisfy our personal tastes and hope the fans appreciate that. The full‑length will show even more of our mutual personality and the best of our brand,” adds Tosi.

Recommended for fans of Slayer, Testament, Exodus, Overkill, and Immortal, “As Above So Below” (released April 18th, 2026) is available now on all major platforms.

Single Stream – Drawn and Quartered ft. James Murphy (Testament, Death, Obituary) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F7m8elmZ2H8

Add to your Spotify Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/artist/3kNaNyl0Lcp2NffXJUwjT6?si=SbY0-uwdTE6jlNyjTIRDJA

Bandcamp – https://anotherdemon.bandcamp.com/album/as-above-so-below

Ragebreed Online Store – https://www.ragebreedstore.net/

Track Listing:
1. Reduced To Ash – 3:13
2. Deaf Gods – 3:05
3. Skull Vessel – 1:49
4. Drawn and Quartered ft. James Murphy (Testament, Death, Obituary) – 5:42
5. War March – 5:44
6. As Above So Below – 5:45
EP Length: 25:20

EP Band Line Up:
Max Capshaw – Vocals / Bass
Frank Tosi – Lead Guitars
Jun Takeshita – Lead Guitars
Frank Vaturina – Session Drums

Live Band Line Up:
Max Capshaw – Vocals
Frank Tosi – Lead Guitars
Jun Takeshita – Lead Guitars
Fred Romer – Bass Guitar
Dave English – Drums

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

-30-

“Another Demon is some of the best new Thrash Death out there. Glad to be a part of it. The music shreds and crushes!” – James Murphy of Death/Testament/Obituary/Cancer

“Frank writes great metal. Full of shredding evil guitars and catchy songwriting. I could listen to this all day!” – Karl Sanders of Nile

“The balance and brilliance of the four murderous musicians in Another Demon is outstanding. If you love Slayer, Testament, Overkill or Exodus, you’ll hear nods to the greats throughout As Above So Below. It’s a credit to the band — they’ve thrown everything into this release to ensure its place in horror-themed thrash metal. Did I mention James Murphy makes a guest appearance? I know I did… I just wanted to tell you again. I’m a huge James Murphy fan, in case you couldn’t tell. As Above So Below by Another Demon is an absolute must for anyone who loves metal — whether it’s speed, thrash, death or doom. Pick your poison. Put it in your ears and you’ll be bouncing off the walls in no time. My overall thoughts? Fucking loved it. Powerful. Fast. Aggressive. Thrashing. Evil. Five words. No arguments.” – Crannk

“A special highlight is »Drawn and Quartered«, at which James Murphy (TESTAMENT, DEATH, OBITUARY) contributing a solo. The track is a prime example of virtuoso guitar playing and at the same time shows the dark atmosphere ANOTHER DEMON master so well. It is a song that is both technically demanding and emotionally charged, with lyrics that tell of torment, punishment and inner conflict… As Above So Below« is an album that offers a lot to fans of thrash and death metal. Energy, technical precision and a gloomy, atmospheric depth… The album is not for the cautious ears, but for those who want to embark on an intense trip through guitar walls, drum thunder and dark lyrics, it delivers just that, what to expect and sometimes a little more.” – MetalUnerground.at

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

0 EXTREMA Unleash “Thrashing ‘Till The End – Live at Slaughter Club” – A 30-Year Thrash Milestone Captured in Full Force

April 29, 2026
by Asher
· Extrema · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 29, 2026

EXTREMA Unleash “Thrashing ‘Till The End – Live at Slaughter Club” – A 30-Year Thrash Milestone Captured in Full Force

Italian thrash metal pioneers EXTREMA are set to release “Thrashing ‘Till The End – Live at Slaughter Club”, a high-impact live document celebrating the 30th anniversary of their legendary debut “Tension At The Seams”. The performance was recorded at Slaughter Club in Paderno Dugnano (Milan) on October 7th, 2023 – exactly three decades after the album that helped redefine the sonic and cultural framework of Italian metal.

The full show will be rolled out as an episodic live video series on the band’s official YouTube channel, alongside a digital release across all major streaming platforms.

Subscribe and follow the full series here: https://bit.ly/ExtremaLive

Released in 1993, “Tension At The Seams” stands as a cornerstone of European thrash: a record built on razor-sharp riffing, percussive precision, and an uncompromising compositional approach that pushed beyond genre orthodoxy. Its impact extended well beyond the Italian scene, setting new benchmarks in terms of arrangement density, production clarity, and expressive aggression.

To mark its 30th anniversary, EXTREMA returned to the stage with a purpose-built show engineered for maximum impact – conceived as a full-contact, no-compromise live assault. The setlist moves with surgical intent: a dominant portion of the debut album performed with renewed intensity, seamlessly integrated with key tracks from across the band’s catalog, culminating in material from their latest release, “Headbanging Forever”.

“Thrashing ‘Till The End – Live at Slaughter Club” captures that performance in its entirety – preserving the raw kinetic energy of the band’s live delivery while enhancing it through a modern visual production pipeline.

Beginning April 29th, all 16 tracks from the show will be released on a weekly schedule via the band’s official YouTube channel with three videos dropping per week – structuring the release as a sustained content cycle designed to maintain engagement and narrative continuity.

Filming and direction were handled by Daniele Farina, with the production delivered in 4K. The visual language combines tight shot sequencing, dynamic camera movement, and performance-focused editing, resulting in a final product that translates the physical intensity of the live set into a sharp, high-definition audiovisual experience.

Subscribe to EXTREMA’s official YouTube channel to follow the full release schedule:
https://www.youtube.com/@Extrema_Official

Line-up
Tommy Massara – Guitars
Tiziano “Titian” Spigno – Vocals
Marco Cassone – Guitars
Gabri Giovanna – Bass
Francesco “Frullo” La Rosa– Drums

For more info:
https://rockshots.eu/
EXTREMA:
https://www.extremateam.com/

https://www.facebook.com/extrema.official/

https://www.instagram.com/extrema_official/

BIOGRAPHY:

Extrema is an Italian thrash metal band formed in Milan in 1986. Known as pioneers of the thrash metal scene in Italy, they have carved out a reputation for their aggressive sound and relentless energy, both in the studio and on stage.

The band’s original lineup included guitarist Tommy Massara, vocalist/guitarist Andrea Boria, bassist Luca Varisco, and drummer Stefano Bullegas. Their debut EP, “We Fuckin’ Care” (1987), marked the beginning of their journey, selling 3,000 copies mainly through word of mouth and cementing their presence in the underground metal scene.

Despite challenges in gaining widespread recognition in Italy during their early years, Extrema gained credibility by opening for international heavyweights like Slayer, D.R.I., and Corrosion of Conformity. By 1993, the band underwent significant lineup changes, featuring Gianluca Perotti on vocals, Mattia Bigi on bass, and Chris Dalla Pellegrina on drums. With this lineup, they released their first full-length album, “Tension at the Seams“, which brought them to international festivals and stages, supporting acts such as Megadeth, The Cult, Suicidal Tendencies, and even Metallica.

In 1995, Extrema released their second album, “The Positive Pressure (Of Injustice)“, showcasing a more groove-oriented thrash sound influenced by contemporaries like Pantera and Machine Head. Although the late ’90s saw a decline in thrash metal’s popularity, the band remained active, producing albums like “Better Mad Than Dead” (2001) and “Set the World on Fire” (2005).

The band released their “Pound for Pound” (2009), followed by “The Seed of Foolishness” (2013). Their ability to adapt while staying true to their thrash roots kept them relevant in a rapidly changing metal landscape.

Their last studio album, “Headbanging Forever” (2019), released through Rockshots Records, marks a triumphant return blending their signature thrash grooves with a modern edge.

In October 2023, Extrema celebrated the 30th anniversary of their groundbreaking debut album, “Tension at the Seams“, with the release of a special 30th Anniversary Boxset Edition, also under Rockshots Records. The box set includes a remastered version of the album from the original tapes, available in three formats: Blue Vinyl, Cassette, and Digital Download.

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0 Prepare For “The Battle of The Dead” – The Title Track From EMBRACE OF SOULS’ New Concept Album Out May 2026

April 28, 2026
by Asher
· Embrace of Souls (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 28, 2026

Prepare For “The Battle of The Dead” – The Title Track From EMBRACE OF SOULS’ New Concept Album Out May 2026

After crossing the 100,000 views mark with the official video for “Desolate Lands”, Italian symphonic power metal band Embrace Of Souls return with “The Battle Of The Dead”, a new single accompanied by an official music video, which is the title track of their upcoming album set for release on May 22, 2026, via Rockshots Records.

A fundamental moment within the album’s narrative, “The Battle Of The Dead,” brings the story to its most critical stage. Set in a medieval world ravaged by a mysterious plague that corrupts human souls, the track captures the escalation of a conflict that inevitably leads to war between the living and the dead, exploring themes of power, sacrifice, and destiny.

“This song represents the core of the entire album. It’s where everything converges – the story, the emotions, the conflict. We wanted it to feel powerful, dramatic, and meaningful, both musically and narratively.”

Musically, the band consolidates its identity within the European symphonic power metal tradition. Driving rhythmic structures and precise double-kick patterns intertwine with Edward De Rosa’s melodic guitar work, while Davide Baldelli’s layered keyboards and choral elements enrich the arrangements, shaping a sound that balances impact and atmosphere with clarity and direction. Xavier Rota’s bass work reinforces the overall sonic framework, adding depth and cohesion. The contrast between Giacomo Rossi’s direct heavy metal vocals and Martina Mazzeo’s operatic voice further defines the band’s sonic signature, enhancing both depth and dynamic range.

The official music video expands the narrative dimension of the track, visually reinforcing the album’s concept and strengthening the connection between storytelling and musical development.

“The Battle Of The Dead” builds on the path introduced by “Desolate Lands”, confirming the band’s evolution toward a more cohesive and concept-driven approach. Together, the two singles offer a clear perspective on the scope of the upcoming album, conceived as a unified listening experience where each track contributes to the overall storyline.

Founded by drummer and composer Michele Olmi, Embrace Of Souls began as a studio project designed to bring together different musicians within a shared creative vision, before evolving into a fully realized band. Over the years, they have shared the stage with Domine, Vision Divine, Stratovarius, Sonata Arctica, and Rhapsody Of Fire, steadily strengthening their presence within the European metal scene.

The upcoming album “The Battle Of The Dead” will feature 11 tracks, further developing the band’s blend of classic power metal, symphonic elements and narrative ambition.

Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4UivMmjBSIY
Listen: https://lnk.to/O3GJCQ

“The Battle Of The Dead” will be released on May 22nd, 2026, in digital format and digipak CD edition, and will be available for pre-order at the following link: https://rockshots.eu/products/embrace-of-souls-the-battle-of-the-dead-cd

OFFICIAL MERCH: https://embraceofsoulsband.bigcartel.com/

For fans of: Rhapsody Of Fire, Stratovarius, Sonata Arctica, Nightwish.

RELEASE PARTY: MAY 30, 2026
Embrace Of Souls will present The Battle Of The Dead live at La Cripta Club (Cusano Milanino, Italy), alongside Derdian, Drakkar, and Axe Blade.

Track Listing:
1. The Battle Of The Dead
2. Eversun
3. The Plague
4. The Gathering
5. Spine
6. Who Can Save Us
7. Betrayal
8. The Dark Lord
9. The War (feat. Morby)
10. Sacrifice
11. Desolate Lands

Line-up:
Giacomo Rossi – Vocals
Martina Mazzeo – Vocals
Edward De Rosa – Guitars
Xavier Rota – Bass
Davide Baldelli – Keyboards
Michele Olmi – Drums

More info:
https://www.rockshots.eu

https://www.instagram.com/embraceofsouls/

https://www.facebook.com/embraceofsoulsofficial/

BIOGRAPHY:

Embrace Of Souls is an Italian power metal band founded by drummer and composer Michele Olmi, conceived with the aim of bringing together talented musicians around a shared vision rooted in collaboration, brotherhood, and a deep passion for classic metal. Initially born as a studio project, the band took shape with the release of their debut album “The Number Of Destiny” in 2021, receiving positive feedback on an international level and notable acclaim in Japan.

Drawing inspiration from ’80s and ’90s heavy and power metal, as well as the epic and symphonic metal of the early 2000s, Embrace Of Souls developed a sound characterized by powerful riffs, epic atmospheres, and strong melodic sensibility. Over time, the project evolved into a full live band, allowing the group to further consolidate its artistic identity and deepen its expressive range.

In 2024, Embrace Of Souls returned with their second full-length album, “Forever Part Of Me,” marking a significant step forward in terms of maturity and songwriting. This phase also introduced important changes within the line-up, bringing renewed energy and a broader musical perspective to the band’s sound.

A key element of this evolution is the current vocal pairing. Giacomo Rossi, already involved in previous releases, now takes on a central role as lead vocalist while Martina Mazzeo, an accomplished soprano vocalist, adds a symphonic and operatic dimension to the band’s music. Together, their voices embody the duality that defines Embrace Of Souls: light and darkness, power and elegance, intensity and emotion.

Having shared the stage with renowned acts such as Domine, Vision Divine, Stratovarius, Sonata Arctica, and Rhapsody Of Fire, Embrace Of Souls continue to refine their identity while looking toward the future. The band is now working on new material, further developing their epic and narrative-driven approach to solidify their presence on the international power metal scene.

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0 One Band To Rule Them All! WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA Announces 2026 National Final! w/ BORNBROKEN (QC), GRAVEARTH (ON), ASHES OF YGGDRASIL (AB), EMPALEMENT (BC)

April 28, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Wacken Metal Battle Canada

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 28, 2026

One Band To Rule Them All! WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA Announces 2026 National Final!

w/ BORNBROKEN (QC), GRAVEARTH (ON), ASHES OF YGGDRASIL (AB), EMPALEMENT (BC)

Let’s get ready to rumble! One band will rule them all as WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA announces this year’s 2026 national finalists.

After battles hosted across the country, the final four have emerged to represent the best of the best underground metal bands in Canada and compete at the national final on May 9th in Montreal, QC, at Piranha Bar (680 Ste-Catherine Ouest), where they will perform in front of metal-hungry fans and be judged by a panel of music industry veterans that includes Luc Laine (CFLX 95.5 FM – Alerte Metallique), Pierre Beaubien (CIBL 101.5 FM – Décibel Métal), Andrew Wieler (CJLO 1690 AM – Metal Director), Kaje Jenkinson (Promoter, Freelance Metal Writer, Asher Media), Dany Soucy (Nova Spei, Bam&Co-Heavy Label and Trois-Rivieres Metalfest), Patrick Loisel (Augury), and JJ Tartaglia (Wacken Metal Battle Canada, Thunderor, Skull Fist).

Only one will be crowned champion and move on to perform at this year’s 35th anniversary of Wacken Open Air and the international Wacken Metal Battle, which hosts bands from 30 countries. The final four meeting at the Wacken Metal Battle Canada National final are the following:

WMBC 2026 National Final Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1Yizi851LwbShAduRaqHf3

Staples of Montreal, QC’s underground metal scene, BORNBROKEN, unleash an aggressive sound, socially conscious themes, and high‑energy performances that have won over legions. The band recently welcomed new drummer, Peter Tzaferis, who some may recognize from his days in Slaves On Dope. They released their third album, “Am I Invisible” in 2024, which Decibel Magazine commented as “a sonic soiree in waiting for those who like their metal in the neighbourhood of early Machine Head, post-Roots Sepultura, Lamb of God and Fear Factory, resplendent with big guitars, bigger grooves and the biggest choruses.”

Music Video – Am I Invisible – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3JXTHX0svI

https://linktr.ee/bornbroken

Oshawa, ON’s GRAVEARTH is a death/groove metal band known for blending brutal heaviness with melodic groove, emotional intensity, and complex arrangements. Their songwriting emphasizes heart, intensity, and memorable hooks, aiming to leave a lasting impression on listeners. Critics and reviewers highlight their unique blend of math, djent, groove, death, prog, and extreme tech metal, noting that the band manages to balance these complex elements into cohesive, powerful compositions. Their music often features layered guitars, dynamic rhythms, and intricate production choices that reward repeated listening.

Visualizer – Altered Reality – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P0Id6miy7cs

https://linktr.ee/Gravearth

ASHES OF YGGDRASIL is a 5-piece melodic death metal band from the barren prairies of Lloydminster, AB/SK. Formed in 2017, our sound has continually evolved across our three albums: The Path (2019), Bearing the Pelt of the Wolf King (2021), and our newest, Crossing of the Realms (2025). While we are melodic death metal, we have hints of thrash, black metal, and even the odd prog sprinkle to shake things up! If you like war drums, melodic guitars, thundering bass, and vicious war cries, we are your raiding party!

Music Video – Razed to the Ground – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzehFwdqY4I

https://ashesofyggdrasilba.wixsite.com/ashesofyggdrasil

EMPALEMENT is an extreme metal act from Victoria, BC, channeling a sound they describe as “Black Metal of Death,” shaped by the crashing coastal waves and dense forests of Vancouver Island. The band blends elements of melodic black metal and death metal, creating a style often referred to as deathened black metal. Their thematic focus spans nihilism, misanthropy, religious hypocrisy, blasphemy, love, heartbreak, depression, fury, war, and hedonistic freedom, giving their music a visceral emotional core. Empalement’s sound is marked by feral black‑metal atmosphere, death‑metal weight, and a strong emphasis on visual and conceptual storytelling. Their releases often pair music with cinematic or ritualistic imagery, reinforcing the band’s dark aesthetic.

Music Video – Blood Dance Of The Dionysian Covenstead – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Mp6H2vRqx8

https://www.facebook.com/Empalement

Event Details:

Date: May 9, 2026

Venue: Piranha Bar (680 Ste. Catherine Ouest)

Time: 8 pm

Cost: FREE ADMISSION

Bands: BornBroken, Gravearth, Ashes of Yggdrasil, Empalement

Event Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/889250847462376/

About Metal Battle:

The Wacken Metal Battle is an international metal music contest that culminates at the famous Wacken Open Air festival. It features the top bands from each nation, showcasing fresh and young metal music directly from the underground. The contest is open to unsigned metal bands and has become a significant platform for breaking through the local circuit. The 2026 edition of Wacken Metal Battle Canada is currently underway. The winner will have the opportunity to perform at Wacken Open Air, one of the world’s largest metal festivals, attracting tens of thousands of metal fans from around the globe. For more information and updates, you can visit the official Wacken Metal Battle website – https://www.metal-battle.com/

About Wacken Open Air:
Wacken Open Air is the largest heavy metal festival in the world. Starting with 800 visitors in 1990, nowadays 85,000 fans from all over the world travel to Wacken every year, turning the small village in Schleswig-Holstein into the center of the festival scene for several days. The organizing WOA Festival GmbH is connected to a broad network, including band management, the Wacken Foundation, tour booking, music publishing, Travel & Stay, merchandising distribution, and ticketing. In cooperation with partners, these results in creative solutions and ideas that revolutionize the festival experience, enable technical innovations, and produce extraordinary event concepts. Wacken Open Air 2026 will take place from July 29 to August 1, 2026.

More info:

https://www.facebook.com/WMBCanada.official

https://www.instagram.com/wmbcanada.official/

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Vox & Hops Podcast
The Metal Voice
Décibel Métal (CIBL 101.5 FM)
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0 Montreal Cult Heavy‑Rock PARADISE Erupts Back In 2026 w/ “Queen of Mars”, A First Taste of New Music Since 2020

April 28, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Paradise

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 27, 2026

Montreal Cult Heavy‑Rock PARADISE Erupts Back In 2026 w/ “Queen of Mars”

A First Taste of New Music Since 2020

Photo Credit – R.L. Black

After years of silence, speculation, and simmering creative energy, Montreal’s cult heavy‑rock outfit Paradise erupts back onto the scene with their first new music since their 2020 self‑titled album. The band announces their long‑awaited return with the upcoming single and music video “Queen of Mars,” marking the beginning of a bold new chapter in their cosmic, riff‑driven mythology.

Formed in 2002 during a lightning‑strike moment of inspiration, Paradise built their identity on what they call “volcanic rock”, a molten blend of heavy rock, classic metal, and stoner‑rock undertones. Their early albums “Rock Anthropologists on the Kon‑Tiki Voyage” (2002) and “Hotel” (2005) became underground favorites, fueled by wild creativity, tongue‑in‑cheek concept worlds, and collaborations with icons like Voivod’s Michel “Away” Langevin and the late Denis “Piggy” D’Amour.

Their 2020 self‑titled comeback album re‑established the band with a harder, sharper edge. Now, in 2026, Paradise resurfaces once more, this time with a fully realized retro‑futuristic vision inspired by the sci‑fi imagery of the ’60s and ’70s.

The band’s new single, “Queen of Mars,” introduces listeners to a cinematic, hypnotic space‑rock sound that expands Paradise’s sonic universe while staying rooted in their heavy‑rock DNA.

The track paints a vivid portrait of a timeless, wandering figure, the Queen of Mars, who embodies freedom, resilience, and cosmic sovereignty. Moving through a desert of memory and isolation, she becomes a mythic symbol of transformation and inner power. Musically, the song blends atmospheric guitars, ritualistic rhythms, and poetic, controlled vocals, landing somewhere between Hawkwind’s cosmic rock, Dozer’s desert‑space textures, and the dramatic sweep of Muse.

“It’s been a while since we’ve put something out, so I know some fans have been waiting. We’re close to the sound of our last record, but there are surprises. We used ’60s and ’70s sci‑fi imagery to inspire us, sounds and moods from far beyond,” says guitarist Frank Kelly.

Kelly remains the band’s primary music writer, working closely with vocalist R.L. Black on lyrics and melodies. For this new material, they also brought in Luc Bourgeois (Sandveiss) to elevate the songwriting even further.

“We just let it go, whichever song was ready first. We’re doing this for fun and to keep the creativity going. We hope people get it, but honestly, we’re having a blast,” adds Kelly.

Paradise has 8–9 new songs in the pipeline, all shaped by their signature approach: naming tracks early in the writing process to set the tone and guide the lyrical world. This time, that world is drenched in analog futures, cosmic psychedelia, and B‑movie sci‑fi charm, a natural evolution of the band’s long‑standing love for heavy music, from Judas Priest and Dio to Kyuss and Fu Manchu.

Paradise’s live reputation remains intact: high‑energy, high‑intensity, and unapologetically fun.

“We’re a party band. Just five guys having a blast. So many bands take this too seriously; it takes the fun out of it,” comments Kelly.

With their return, fans can expect a renewed sense of adventure, a deeper dive into their cosmic aesthetic, and a sound that continues to evolve without losing the volcanic spark that defined them from day one.

Watch and listen to the music video for “Queen of Mars” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xu3W8ZyA0I

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/6aF3AuOrjBMl4vcs6xDoV4

More info:

https://paradiserockband.com/

https://www.instagram.com/paradiserockmtl/

https://www.facebook.com/paradiserockmtl

About: Born in Montreal in 2002, Paradise emerged from a whirlwind of creativity that led to their debut Rock Anthropologists on the Kon‑Tiki Voyage, followed by Hotel (2005). After a long hiatus, the band returned in 2020 with their self‑titled third album, blending hard rock and heavy metal with razor‑sharp riffs and soaring melodies. Now, in 2026, Paradise reclaims their place in the heavy‑rock cosmos with a new sci‑fi–inspired chapter and the upcoming single “Queen of Mars.”

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“The Canada scene has been fire in recent years, and it’s great to see the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll alive and kicking up there. Think about it: in this jaded era of fake music, here’s a group of five genuinely real, thinking, feeling humans who make music that you can also see live. The vibes are infectious. They call it volcanic rock, and the band’s been at it in some form or another since 2002. After two initial releases in the early part of the century, Paradise returned to the recording studio in 2020 ready for a new beginning. Now following the release of Paradise, they’re bringing all the attitude, energy, riffing, and fuzz to bear in the brand single before us: “Queen of Mars.” Beginning with a splash of pedal-mediated wah, the song picks up a groovy, heart-pounding pace, joined by grinding desert revving perfect for the visuals of the music video. Vocals tell the story in gritty and clean tones of “straying beyond the desert’s edge” and encountering the elusive Queen of Mars, depicted as “a gypsy spirit, wandering this ancient land.” Mysteries abound and you are invited to trip with the band into this strange, electrifying realm. Paradise’s new single comes out on Tuesday, April 28th, so this is your chance to hear it first! Stick it on a playlist with Freedom Hawk, Sandveiss, Bone Church, Kal-El, and Blackwülf. Give ear…” – Doomed and Stoned

“Fans of melodic heavy rock, there’s a new sheriff in town!” – Jano Lapin (2020)

“Solid, driving Hard Rock from the quagmires of Quebec!” – Reek Of STOOM (2020)

“Brilliant from start to finish !” – Stoner Rock Army (2020)

“A record that growls like a hungry beast” – ARP Média (2020)

“Riffing melodic hard rock and metal seems to the recipe for Canadians PARADISE, hailing from Montreal. And they do it well!This is a truly giutar driven album including ten songs only, but with energy enough to please you. Among my fave tracks are the cool and heavy riffed ”Who Do You Wanna Be” and the tempo filled ”Away From You” – try to stand still to that one! Like AC/DC on dope, if I exaggerate a bit.” – Melodic.net (2020)

“The synergy of this quintet gives the listener a proper kick in the ass needed to remember why we fell in love with the format. They also lend proof as to why heavy metal is the cornerstone of the myriad of hard rock subgenres. Blistering guitar riffs, thundering drums, and of course ample swipes at stuffy establishment rules.” – Boston Rock Radio (2020)

“The album opens with “Straight From Hell” and it is an adrenaline high. It is an unmistakable straight forward rock construction of verse-bridge-chorus, repeat, repeat, and the dial is set on stadium anthem. RL Black’s vocals are about as rock and roll as you can get – strong clean singing with a gruff edge. The lead breaks are short to fit in with the song structure, and they are pretty metal. I like the brand they have going here. It is great driving music, great drinking music. I would be stoked to see Paradise on the list of bands at a festival because you can just feel from these songs that they are going to put on a good show on stage.” – Flying Fiddlesticks Music Blog (2020)
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0 Rappel / Reminder – Mai / May 1 – 2 – PIRANHA PIT FEST III (Montreal) avec / with MACABRE, KINGS OF THRASH (ft. classic‑era Megadeth members David Ellefson & Jeff Young), GORGASM, ATROPHY, PESSIMIST, DBC, et plus! / and more!

April 27, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Piranha Pit Fest

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 27, 2026

Festival Assets – Photos, Posters, Set Times HERE (for media use only)

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Reminder – May 1 – 2 – PIRANHA PIT FEST III (Montreal)

with MACABRE, KINGS OF THRASH (ft. classic‑era Megadeth members David Ellefson & Jeff Young), GORGASM, ATROPHY, PESSIMIST, DBC, and more!

(Version française ci-dessous)

Montreal, QC, the heavy metal capital of Canada, is preparing for this year’s PIRANHA PIT FEST III featuring two ferocious nights of death metal, thrash, and heavy metal mayhem on May 1–2, 2026. Presented by Piranha Bar (680 Ste-Catherine Ouest) and Dungeonworks Productions, the festival welcomes metal fans back for one of the city’s most extreme annual events featuring MACABRE, KINGS OF THRASH, GORGASM, ATROPHY, PESSIMIST, DBC, and many more.

Friday night will erupt with breakneck speed, gore‑drenched riffs, and pure old‑school savagery as some of death metal’s most respected forces descend upon the city. Saturday night will shift into a high‑voltage celebration of classic thrash, speed, and the unshakable power of traditional heavy metal.

Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1154523419943924/
Tickets (Individual daily ticket or Weekend Pass) – https://www.eventbrite.com/e/piranha-pit-fest-3-tickets-1977767497826

Ticket holders will receive a bracelet based on their ticket type. Weekend‑pass holders will keep the same bracelet on for the entire duration of the festival.

Check out the festival Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0uQStdodVpgpAkvnx5d8Ak

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Co-headlining opening Friday night on May 1st, Chicago’s long‑running trio MACABRE brings their unmistakable brand of Murder Metal to Montreal, an unholy fusion of death metal, thrash, grind, and twisted nursery‑rhyme melodies. Since 1985, the band has carved out a cult legacy with their darkly humorous, true‑crime‑obsessed storytelling and a lineup that has remained unchanged for four decades. Expect a wild, theatrical, and utterly unmistakable performance from one of extreme metal’s most unique and enduring acts.

Music Video – Joe Ball Was Hi Name – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8_WaVOwfA4

Also co-headlining night one of Piranha Pit Fest III, Chicago’s GORGASM stands as one of the defining forces in American brutal death metal. Since the mid‑90s, the band has carved out a reputation for hyper‑technical riffing, relentless blast‑driven intensity, and a signature blend of brutality and precision that helped shape the genre’s modern sound. Their cult‑classic releases, packed with surgical musicianship and uncompromising extremity, have earned them a loyal global following. Expect a devastating, high‑velocity set from one of brutal death metal’s most respected and enduring names.

Visualizer – Carnal Demise – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-4KLfltEE5s

Also supporting Friday night, extreme‑metal veterans PESSIMIST, born from Baltimore’s early ’90s death‑metal underground, have long carved out their own territory with a vicious blend of technical precision, old‑school thrash influence, and a relentlessly dark, sinister atmosphere. The band is now gearing up for the release of “Keys to the Underworld,” their first full‑length album in over two decades, with early previews hinting that it may be their most uncompromising and extreme material yet.

Album Stream – Slaughtering the Faithful – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DoSP0qXr5cw

Co-headlining night two on Saturday, May 2nd, featuring former classic‑era members of Megadeth, David Ellefson and Jeff Young, KINGS OF THRASH deliver a high‑octane celebration of the golden age of American thrash metal. Known for performing iconic albums and deep cuts from the genre’s most influential catalog, the band brings unmatched authenticity, razor‑sharp musicianship, and the raw spirit of the 80s thrash movement. Their live shows are a full‑throttle tribute to the era that shaped heavy metal history, making them a must‑see highlight for fans of speed, precision, and old‑school aggression.

Music Video – Lockdown – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9eqD1kMDqQ

Also co-headlining Saturday Night, Tucson, AZ’s ATROPHY are one of Arizona’s most respected thrash exports, known for their razor‑tight riffing, socially charged lyrics, and high‑energy attack. Their two late‑80s/early‑90s albums on Roadrunner Records, Socialized Hate and Violent by Nature, earned them a devoted cult following and cemented their place in the classic thrash canon. After reuniting in recent years with renewed fire, Atrophy continues to deliver the same sharp, adrenaline‑fueled intensity that made them stand out in the genre’s golden era. Expect a fierce, old‑school thrash assault from a band that helped define the sound of Southwestern speed metal.

Lyric Video – Punishment For All – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECg8hBDyhn4

Also supporting night two, local legends and a cornerstone of Quebec’s late‑80s thrash scene, DBC (Dead Brain Cells) emerged from Montreal with a sound that blended razor‑sharp speed, crossover energy, and socially conscious lyrics. Their cult‑classic albums Dead Brain Cells (1987) and Universe (1989) showcased a band unafraid to push beyond traditional thrash, mixing technical musicianship with progressive, sci‑fi‑driven themes. After years of underground reverence, DBC’s return to the stage has reignited their legacy as one of Canada’s most unique and forward‑thinking thrash exports. Expect a powerful hometown performance from a band that helped shape Montreal’s metal identity.

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

Other standout attractions at this year’s Piranha Pit Fest III: Canadian (Montreal/Toronto) metal veterans ENTROPY, known for their fierce blend of thrash, death, prog, groove, and power metal. With four independent albums and a global cult following, they’ve shared stages with legends like Annihilator, Fear Factory, Razor, Obituary, and Anvil. Expect a hard‑hitting set from one of Canada’s most distinctive underground acts. Montreal’s DOUBLE CROSS is a crossover thrash/hardcore delivering fast, aggressive, no‑frills energy. With their raw punk edge and high‑intensity live attack, they are one of the city’s rising underground standouts. Montreal crossover thrashers MUTANK explode with high‑energy, pit‑ready aggression inspired by Slayer, Exodus, D.R.I., and Suicidal Tendencies. Formed in 2013, they’ve built a reputation for fast, chaotic riffing, wild live shows, and a relentless DIY spirit. Their long‑awaited new album, Think Before You Think, marked their return with ten tracks of volcanic thrash fury, following their cult‑favorite EP W.H.A.T.S.T.H.A.T. and their Wacken Open Air appearance after winning the Wacken Metal Battle Canada. Expect a ferocious, high‑octane set built for moshing. Toronto’s WARMACHINE delivers a melodic yet heavy blend of power and thrash metal, active since 1994 and recently revived after a five‑year hiatus. Led by vocalist/guitarist Joe Di Taranto, the band is known for tight musicianship, strong hooks, and energetic live performances. With albums like Left for Dead and a new release in the works, Warmachine returns to the stage with renewed fire and a sharpened modern edge.

FRIDAY, MAY 1 – DEATH METAL NIGHT
Headlined by two legendary forces of brutality:
Macabre (co-headliners)
Gorgasm (Co-headliners)
Pessimist
Lividity
Deceased
Disgust
Double Cross
Cystic Embalmment

SATURDAY, MAY 2 – THRASH & HEAVY METAL NIGHT
Featuring a massive thrash metal showcase:
Kings of Thrash (co-headliners)
Atrophy (co-headliners)
DBC (Dead Brain Cells)
Meliah Rage
Warmachine
Entropy
Deadwolff
Mutank
Stregoneria
World On Alert

About PIRANHA PIT FEST:
Launched as a celebration of Montreal’s thriving extreme‑music community, PIRANHA PIT FEST has quickly become a staple for fans of death metal, thrash, and underground heavy music. The 2026 edition marks its biggest and most ambitious lineup yet, bringing together international heavyweights and local legends for two nights of pure sonic devastation.

For more info: https://www.facebook.com/dungeonworksprods

Sponsored by:
OROCK Longueuil Inc.
Loud Trax
Absolute Underground Magazine
Labatt
Asher Media Relations

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

Rappel – Mai 1 – 2 – PIRANHA PIT FEST III (Montreal)

avec MACABRE, KINGS OF THRASH (avec les membres de l’époque classique de Megadeth David Ellefson & Jeff Young), GORGASM, ATROPHY, PESSIMIST, DBC, et plus!

Montréal, QC, la capitale canadienne du heavy metal, se prépare pour le PIRANHA PIT FEST III de cette année, qui proposera deux nuits féroces de death metal, thrash et chaos heavy metal les 1er et 2 mai 2026. Présenté par le Piranha Bar (680 Ste-Catherine Ouest) et Dungeonworks Productions, le festival accueille de nouveau les fans de metal pour l’un des événements annuels les plus extrêmes de la ville, avec MACABRE, KINGS OF THRASH, GORGASM, ATROPHY, PESSIMIST, DBC et bien d’autres.

La nuit de vendredi explosera avec une vitesse vertigineuse, des riffs imbibés de gore et une sauvagerie pure old-school alors que certaines des forces les plus respectées du death metal descendront sur la ville. La nuit de samedi se transformera en une célébration haute tension du thrash classique, du speed et de la puissance inébranlable du heavy metal traditionnel.

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Partageant l’affiche pour l’ouverture vendredi soir le 1er mai, le trio de longue date de Chicago, MACABRE, apporte leur marque inimitable de Murder Metal à Montréal, une fusion impie de death metal, thrash, grind et de mélodies de comptines tordues. Depuis 1985, le groupe s’est forgé un héritage culte avec ses récits empreints d’humour noir et obsédés par le crime réel, et une formation qui est restée inchangée pendant quatre décennies. Attendez-vous à une performance sauvage, théâtrale et absolument inimitable de l’un des groupes les plus uniques et durables de l’extrême metal.

Co‑tête d’affiche de la première nuit du Piranha Pit Fest III, GORGASM de Chicago s’impose comme l’une des forces déterminantes du brutal death metal américain. Depuis le milieu des années 90, le groupe s’est forgé une réputation grâce à des riffs hyper techniques, une intensité implacable propulsée par des blasts, et un mélange signature de brutalité et de précision qui a contribué à façonner le son moderne du genre. Leurs sorties cultes, remplies d’une musicalité chirurgicale et d’une extrémité sans compromis, leur ont valu un public fidèle à l’échelle mondiale. Attendez‑vous à un set dévastateur et à haute vitesse de l’un des noms les plus respectés et durables du brutal death metal.

Soutenant également la soirée du vendredi, les vétérans du metal extrême PESSIMIST, issus du mouvement death metal des années 90 à Baltimore, se sont depuis longtemps taillés leur propre territoire avec un mélange vicieux de précision technique, d’influence thrash old-school et d’une atmosphère sombre et sinistre sans relâche. Le groupe se prépare maintenant à la sortie de “Keys to the Underworld”, leur premier album complet depuis plus de deux décennies, avec des aperçus précoces laissant penser qu’il pourrait s’agir de leur matériel le plus intransigeant et extrême à ce jour.

Co‑tête d’affiche la deuxième soirée, le samedi 2 mai, avec d’anciens membres de l’ère classique de Megadeth, David Ellefson et Jeff Young, KINGS OF THRASH offrent une célébration à haute énergie de l’âge d’or du thrash metal américain. Connus pour interpréter des albums emblématiques et des morceaux profonds du catalogue le plus influent du genre, le groupe apporte une authenticité incomparable, une maîtrise musicale tranchante comme un rasoir et l’esprit brut du mouvement thrash des années 80. Leurs concerts sont un hommage à toute vitesse à l’époque qui a façonné l’histoire du heavy metal, faisant d’eux un point fort à ne pas manquer pour les fans de rapidité, de précision et d’agressivité à l’ancienne.

Co-têtes d’affiche également le samedi soir à Tucson, AZ, ATROPHY est l’une des exportations de thrash les plus respectées de l’Arizona, connue pour ses riffs précis comme une lame de rasoir, ses paroles socialement engagées et son attaque pleine d’énergie. Leurs deux albums de la fin des années 80/début des années 90 sur Roadrunner Records, Socialized Hate et Violent by Nature, leur ont valu un culte fidèle et ont cimenté leur place dans le canon du thrash classique. Après s’être réunis ces dernières années avec un feu renouvelé, Atrophy continue de délivrer la même intensité tranchante et pleine d’adrénaline qui les a fait se démarquer à l’époque dorée du genre. Attendez-vous à une attaque thrash old-school féroce d’un groupe qui a contribué à définir le son du speed metal du Sud-Ouest.

Soutenant également la deuxième nuit, les légendes locales et un pilier de la scène thrash québécoise de la fin des années 80, DBC (Dead Brain Cells) a émergé de Montréal avec un son mêlant vitesse tranchante, énergie crossover et paroles socialement conscientes. Leurs albums cultes Dead Brain Cells (1987) et Universe (1989) ont présenté un groupe n’ayant pas peur de dépasser le thrash traditionnel, mélangeant virtuosité technique et thèmes progressifs inspirés de la science-fiction. Après des années de vénération underground, le retour de DBC sur scène a ravivé leur héritage en tant qu’une des exportations thrash les plus uniques et avant-gardistes du Canada. Attendez-vous à une performance puissante dans leur ville natale de la part d’un groupe qui a contribué à façonner l’identité metal de Montréal.

Autres attractions remarquables du Piranha Pit Fest III de cette année : les vétérans canadiens du metal (Montréal/Toronto) ENTROPY, connus pour leur mélange féroce de thrash, death, prog, groove et power metal. Avec quatre albums indépendants et un culte mondial, ils ont partagé la scène avec des légendes comme Annihilator, Fear Factory, Razor, Obituary et Anvil. Attendez-vous à un set percutant de l’un des groupes underground les plus distinctifs du Canada. DOUBLE CROSS de Montréal est un groupe crossover thrash/hardcore délivrant une énergie rapide, agressive et sans fioritures. Avec leur touche punk brute et leur attaque live à haute intensité, ils sont l’un des groupes underground montants de la ville. Les crossover thrashers de Montréal, MUTANK, explosent avec une aggression à haute énergie, prête pour le pit, inspirée par Slayer, Exodus, D.R.I. et Suicidal Tendencies. Formés en 2013, ils se sont forgé une réputation pour leurs riffs rapides et chaotiques, leurs concerts sauvages et un esprit DIY implacable. Leur nouvel album très attendu, Think Before You Think, marque leur retour avec dix morceaux de fureur thrash volcanique, après leur EP culte W.H.A.T.S.T.H.A.T. et leur performance au Wacken Open Air suite à leur victoire au Wacken Metal Battle Canada. Attendez-vous à un set féroce et à haute octane conçu pour le moshing. Le groupe torontois WARMACHINE propose un mélange mélodique mais lourd de power et thrash metal, actif depuis 1994 et récemment relancé après une pause de cinq ans. Mené par le chanteur/guitariste Joe Di Taranto, le groupe est connu pour sa musicalité serrée, ses refrains accrocheurs et ses performances live énergiques. Avec des albums comme Left for Dead et une nouvelle sortie en préparation, Warmachine revient sur scène avec un feu renouvelé et un tranchant moderne.

VENDREDI 1er MAI – NUIT DE DEATH METAL
Avec en tête d’affiche deux forces légendaires de brutalité :
Macabre (co-têtes d’affiche)
Gorgasm (co-têtes d’affiche)
Pessimist
Lividity
Deceased
Disgust
Double Cross
Cystic Embalmment

SAMEDI 2 MAI – NUIT THRASH & HEAVY METAL
Avec une énorme programmation de thrash metal :
Kings of Thrash (co-têtes d’affiche)
Atrophy (co-têtes d’affiche)
DBC (Dead Brain Cells)
Meliah Rage
Warmachine
Entropy
Deadwolff
Mutank
Stregoneria
World On Alert

À propos de PIRANHA PIT FEST : Lancé comme une célébration de la communauté florissante de musique extrême de Montréal, le PIRANHA PIT FEST est rapidement devenu un événement incontournable pour les fans de death metal, thrash et musique heavy underground. L’édition 2026 marque sa programmation la plus grande et la plus ambitieuse à ce jour, réunissant des poids lourds internationaux et des légendes locales pour deux nuits de pure destruction sonore.

– 30 –

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
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0 SANAGA Confirmed For SONUM Fest 2026 (Quebec City) + Unleash Debut Single “The Godslayer’s Oath”; Mixed & Mastered by KATAKLYSM’s Jeff Dagenais

April 27, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Sanaga

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 27, 2026

SANAGA Confirmed For SONUM Fest 2026 (Quebec City) + Unleash Debut Single “The Godslayer’s Oath”

Mixed & Mastered by KATAKLYSM’s Jeff Dagenais

L-R – Dominic Brillant – Guitars, Jean-Francois Durand – Bass, Marc Verreault – Vocals, Frederic Giguere – Drums, Patrick Plourde – Guitars

Photo Credit – Martin Bouchard

Rising death metal force Sanaga will take the stage at SONUM Fest 2026 on May 16th as part of the three‑day festival running May 15–17. The event, hosted in Quebec City at Studio Sonum (25 Bigaouette), is known for showcasing some of the most intense and innovative acts in heavy music. This performance marks one of Sanaga’s first official live appearances.

Festival details: https://sonumfest.com/

Event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/939013391997631

Sanaga recently unleashed their debut single, “The Godslayer’s Oath”, mixed and mastered by Jeff Dagenais (Kataklysm). The track serves as the band’s explosive introduction to the Canadian metal scene. Formed in late 2026, Sanaga unites long‑time friends and seasoned musicians driven by a shared passion for fast, melodic, aggressive, and evocative metal inspired by Death, Slayer, Amon Amarth, and Dark Tranquillity.

“The Godslayer’s Oath” was the natural choice for Sanaga’s first release. As the earliest song the band fully rehearsed together, it quickly became their most complete and polished composition. Musically, it captures the full spectrum of Sanaga’s sound, death metal fused with thrash energy and sharpened by touches of black metal. Lyrically, the track introduces listeners to the band’s myth‑driven universe, telling the story of a void‑born entity created for one purpose: to slay gods and annihilate their realms. Whether interpreted as an anti‑religious statement or a brutal fantasy narrative, the single sets the tone for Sanaga’s bold, storytelling‑focused approach.

Though newly formed, Sanaga’s members are no strangers to the Quebec metal scene, with active roles in projects such as Meet The Mailman, Foxy Queen, Devil’s Trill, and Warriors of the North. Their combined experience fuels a tight, high‑energy sound and a no‑nonsense writing process.

The single’s artwork reflects the band’s name, drawn from the Sanaga River in Cameroon, a symbol of life, death, and myth. Its dark, foreboding landscape and towering god‑slaying figure visually echo the themes explored in the music.

Following their SONUM Fest performance, Sanaga will continue preparing for additional live dates and will return to the studio to record their second release. With a defined sound and a clear creative vision, the band is poised to make a powerful impact on the death metal landscape.

Listen to “The Godslayer’s Oath” at the following links:

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/1rzjY98YzjOizn5gLwmpxO

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xU9Vmcpj_Q

More info:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585662054767

https://www.instagram.com/sanaga666/

-30-

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

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