Posts By Asher

0 EPK – Nova Spei – Deracine (2026) (single)

April 24, 2026
by Asher
· EPKs · Nova Spei (Bam&Co. Heavy)

EPK – Nova Spei – Deracine (2026) (single)

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

“I really think they will love the rebirth of the band with the change of vocal to the feminine, but even more intense. Into this one, we add some reflection about a sad part of our story…Something more organic than our previous album. Make them feel how passionate and how much fun we can have doing this… The subject of Deracine was important to Emmanuelle, given her background. It’s a topic that is still often silenced by governments, and she wanted to denounce it.” – Nova Spei – Dany Soucy – Founder, Rhythm Guitarist

For fans Gojira, Tesseract, Killswitch Engage, Spiritbox, Architects

NovaSpei.com | Facebook.com/NovaSpei | X.com/NovaSpeiBand | Instagram.com/novaspei | Youtube

Novaspei.bandcamp.com | Apple Music | Spotify

Online Store – www.novaspei.com/marchandise | Bam&Co. Heavy

“Une pièce qui a tout ce qui faut pour devenir un classique du métal québécois. Des phrases percutantes et pleine de sens sur une musique lourde à souhait.” – Ondes Chocs

“Nova Spei : Nouvel espoir sur la scène métallique au Québec” – Voir

“Bref un excellent album à se mettre sous la dent ou sous le sapin pour le temps des fêtes ! Supportez notre belle scène du Québec ! ” – Metal Universe (2021 – Sequentis – LP)

“so there they were, twelve times groovy metal in French – from Canada. “Sequentis” by NOVA SPEI offers many an entertaining song. A lot of it certainly ignites live in the mosh pit and causes the crowd to freak out because they know how to get their limbs moving with their riffs and fat grooves… an album that is fun and fans of the good old groove metal should like.” – Stormbringer (2021 – Sequentis – LP)

“”Along with a meticulous display of proficient musicianship, this entire album is not only a credit to its makers, but the multifaceted collection of influences that has firmly planted a seed deep within them over the years, and brings New Hope to both the listener and the band as you peel away the cellophane so to speak. As a result, this album won’t gather dust in any collection, and will keep heads bouncing and feet tapping from sofa to stage.”” – Stargazer Music Magazine (2021 – Sequentis – LP)

[Download Single Cover | Download Single Lyrics | English Translation of Lyrics]

Band: Nova Spei
Single Title: Déraciné – 4:07
Release Date: April 24, 2026
Label: Bam&Co-Heavy
Distribution: Believe Digital
Genre: Metal
Location of Band: Trois-Rivières, Québec

Single Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Nova Spei
• All songs written by: Nova Spei
• Produced by: Nova Spei
• Mixed by: Francis Perron – Radicart Studio (Voivod, Martyr, etc)
• Mastered by: Maor Appelbaum at Maor Appelbaum Mastering – California – U.S.A (Faith No More, Halford, Yes, etc)
• Album Artwork by: Flat Bathtub: Filip Ivanović personal playground
• Member of SOCAN and SOPROQ
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Band Line Up:
Cédrick Charland – Lead Guitarist
Dany Soucy – Founder, Rhythm Guitarist
Emmanuelle Desbiens-Dubois – Vocal
Julien De Carufel – Drum
Nicolas Dumais-Brouillette – Bass, Vocal

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

About the Single Artwork:

Filip Ivanovic has managed to capture in images what our rebirth is in a world full of pitfalls.

About The Single (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

It mainly speaks of what the First Nations experienced, the uprooting of their values, their origins, and the abuses of the state.

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

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. We started imagining the next album with an approach as modern as Sequentis’s. But Francis Perron showed us how it could all sound much more organic, more raw, the way he worked with Voivod, and our focus completely shifted when we heard his first rough mix.

2. We didn’t know who to contact for mastering the songs, and when we were offered the chance to work with Maor Appelbaum (Faith No More, Yes, etc.), we thought it would never happen, and yet… he said yes and seems to have really liked what he heard! We’re not worthy! hahaha

3. This was the first time Nova Spei had recorded in a professional studio. We had recorded the two previous albums in our own facilities.

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

Photo Credit – Joe Weller (Joe Lacerte)

NOVA SPEI, a French-language metal band from Quebec, launched/presented their first album, “Self-Titled” as the opening act for Anonymus on their December 2017 tour across Quebec. In 2019, they toured most of Quebec’s major cities during the band’s 30th-anniversary tour. By 2025, Nova Spei will have performed over 100 shows to promote the band in Quebec and Ontario.

NOVA SPEI was formed in 2012 by Dany Soucy (guitar) (Dook, Legion). Nicolas Dumais (bass) joined the band in 2014. Julien De Carufel (drums) arrived in August 2021, and it was, finally, in 2025 that Cédrick Charland (lead guitar), as well as Emmanuelle Desbiens-Dubois (vocals), joined the new version of Nova Spei.

In 2017, their first album was produced and recorded in their home studio in Champlain, and mixed, produced, and mastered in France by Anthony Chognard (Smash Hit Combo, CHSprod). Their single “L’homme aux 1000 Sourires” (The Man with 1000 Smiles) is in constant rotation on Quebec City’s RadioX 98.1FM, and their song “Ma Muse” (My Muse), and a few more can be heard during Montreal Canadiens games at the Bell Centre.

2019 marked the beginning of recording for their second album titled SEQUENTIS. The first single, “Qui Sème Le Vent” (Who Sows the Wind), was released in November 2019, but due to the pandemic, the album’s release was delayed by two years, until November 12, 2021.

After some lineup changes, 2026 heralded the return of the full band and the desire to hit the road again. An album titled TRINITAS is therefore in preparation for autumn 2026, with the intention of restarting the party on stage that is Nova Spei.

Band Line Up:
Cédrick Charland – Lead Guitarist
Dany Soucy – Founder, Rhythm Guitarist
Emmanuelle Desbiens-Dubois – Vocals
Julien De Carufel – Drum
Nicolas Dumais-Brouillette – Bass, Vocals

Discography:
2026 – Renaissance (single)
2021 – Sequentis – LP
2017 – Self-Titled LP

Music Placements: Montreal Canadiens games at the Bell Centre

Artist endorsements: Charbonneau Guitars

0 Quebec’s NOVA SPEI Confronts Cultural Uprooting of First Nations w/ New Single “Déraciné” From Forthcoming Album “Trinitas”

April 24, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Nova Spei (Bam&Co. Heavy)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 24, 2026

Quebec’s NOVA SPEI Confronts Cultural Uprooting of First Nations w/ New Single “Déraciné” From Forthcoming Album “Trinitas”

Welcome New Vocalist Desbiens‑Dubois and Guitarist Cédrick Charland To Lineup

Photo Credit – Joe Weller (Joe Lacerte)

Quebec modern‑metal force Nova Spei continue their bold new chapter with the release of “Déraciné,” the second single from their forthcoming 2026 album “TRINITAS,” arriving this Fall 2026. Following the explosive reception of their previous single “Renaissance,” which introduced new vocalist Emmanuelle Desbiens‑Dubois, “Déraciné” pushes the band’s evolution even further, musically, emotionally, and thematically.

“Déraciné” confronts the painful legacy of First Nations communities, specifically the uprooting of culture, identity, and values through state‑driven abuses. For Desbiens‑Dubois, whose own family heritage is tied to First Nations, the subject matter is deeply personal.

“The subject was important to Emmanuelle, given her background. It’s a topic that is still often silenced by governments, and she wanted to denounce it,” the band explains.

Lyrically, the track stands as one of Nova Spei’s most direct and socially conscious works to date. Musically, it blends the band’s signature djent‑infused modern metal with a newly embraced rawness, an intentional shift for the upcoming album.

After years of crafting their sound in their own studio, Nova Spei entered a professional recording environment for the first time in their career. Working with producer Francis Perron (Voivod, Martyr), the band discovered a more organic, unfiltered approach that reshaped the entire direction of “TRINITAS.”

“We started imagining the next album with a modern approach like Sequentis, but Francis showed us how it could sound more raw and alive. When we heard his first rough mix, everything changed.”

The single was mastered by world‑renowned engineer Maor Appelbaum (Faith No More, Halford, Yes), a collaboration the band still describes with disbelief and excitement.

The single’s artwork, created by Filip Ivanovic, visually represents the band’s rebirth and the obstacles that shaped this new era. It mirrors the themes of identity, struggle, and renewal that run through “Déraciné” and the upcoming album.

Nova Spei was founded in 2012 by guitarist Dany Soucy (Dook, Legion), and the band has spent over a decade carving its place in Quebec’s metal landscape. With more than 100 shows across Quebec and Ontario, radio rotation on major stations, and music featured during Montreal Canadiens games, the band has built a reputation for intensity both on and off stage.

The 2025 arrival of Desbiens‑Dubois (vocals) and Cédrick Charland (lead guitar) marked a turning point, one that their forthcoming album “TRINITAS” fully embraces.

“Fans will feel the rebirth of the band. The feminine vocal shift brings intensity, emotion, and a new perspective. This album is more organic, more passionate, and more honest than anything we’ve done,” says Soucy.

“TRINITAS” will represent the third era of Nova Spei, an album built on rebirth, unity, and the rediscovery of the band’s core identity. Recommended for fans of Gojira, Tesseract, Killswitch Engage, Spiritbox, and Architects.

Watch and listen to the lyric video for “Déraciné” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xn2xKYt0pc

Add yo your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/5Qr13FuLfLMT4LNHm3rNAs

Music video for first single “Renaissance” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FagxvgWJTes

For more info:

https://www.novaspei.com/

https://www.facebook.com/NovaSpei

https://www.instagram.com/novaspei

About:

Since their debut in 2017, launched as the opening act for Anonymus on a Quebec tour, Nova Spei has steadily grown into one of the province’s most distinctive francophone metal acts. Their songs have been featured on RadioX 98.1FM and even blasted through the Bell Centre during Montreal Canadiens games.

Their second album, Sequentis, released in 2021 after pandemic delays, expanded their reach and solidified their reputation for high‑energy, modern metal with a francophone edge.

Now, with TRINITAS on the horizon in 2026, Nova Spei is ready to reclaim the stage with renewed purpose.

Known for their dynamic, high‑intensity performances, Nova Spei prides itself on delivering maximum energy with no downtime between songs. Fans can expect the upcoming tour cycle to reflect the same spirit of rebirth that fuels “Renaissance.”

– 30 –

“Une pièce qui a tout ce qui faut pour devenir un classique du métal québécois. Des phrases percutantes et pleine de sens sur une musique lourde à souhait.” – Ondes Chocs

“Nova Spei : Nouvel espoir sur la scène métallique au Québec” – Voir

“Bref un excellent album à se mettre sous la dent ou sous le sapin pour le temps des fêtes ! Supportez notre belle scène du Québec ! ” – Metal Universe (2021 – Sequentis – LP)

—

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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

0 Fire Up The Grill! SONS OF BUTCHER Celebrate National Steak Day w/ New Video “Peppercorn Steak”

April 24, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Sons of Butcher

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 24, 2026

Fire Up The Grill! SONS OF BUTCHER Celebrate National Steak Day w/ New Video “Peppercorn Steak”

New EP “Skids” Out Now!

L-R – Doug Borski – Bass/Vocals, Joey Salami – Guitar, Crissy Stixx – Drums, Ricky Butcher – Lead Vocals/Guitar

Photo Credit – Evan Thompson

Canadian mock‑rock legends Sons of Butcher are back with another slab of greasy, over‑the‑top rock mayhem, this time with the release of their brand‑new music video “Peppercorn Steak,” perfectly timed to marinate ahead of National Steak Day on April 25th.

The single marks the first post‑release video from the band’s new EP “Skids,” which officially arrived March 27th, 2026 and has already delivered two fan‑favourite videos: the denim‑soaked anthem “Denim Dreamin’” and the bacon‑blasted metal romp “Makin’ Bacon.”

“Peppercorn Steak” brings the band full circle, back to their roots in the animated Teletoon series that first launched Sons of Butcher into Canadian cult status. Originally featured in a never‑aired, independently created pilot for a potential third season, the track has now been fully re‑cut, re‑seasoned, and served sizzling with soaring vocals, chunky riffs, and the kind of lyrical repetition only Sons of Butcher could make iconic.

“This EP marks the first time we’ve written songs not directly tied to the cartoon storyline, except for ‘Peppercorn Steak’. Instead, this EP is an honest batch of comedy songs from the grease‑clogged hearts of a band of has‑been butchers,” says frontman Ricky Butcher. “

The new video is a celebration of everything Sons of Butcher stands for: meat‑obsessed comedy, 80s‑riff swagger, and the kind of theatrical absurdity that made the band a cult favourite. Designed to pair perfectly with National Steak Day, the video gives fans the ultimate soundtrack for grilling, chilling, and embracing their inner carnivore.

Taste the steak with the video for “Peppercorn Steak” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9tMsBq0GvGg

“Skids” is a four‑track blast of unapologetic skid‑life: cheap meat, grunge‑stained fashion, and the unwashed spirit of rock forged in a butcher shop. It’s raw, loud, and unexpectedly radio‑ready, marking a rare moment where Ricky Butcher reins in his famously NSFW impulses without losing the band’s signature filth‑core charm.

The EP reunites Sons of Butcher with longtime producer Jordon Zadorozny (Meatlantis, Rise & Fall of the Steaks) at Skylark Park in Pembroke. It also features drumming from Ricky’s all‑time favourite drummer, Kellii Scott of Failure, bringing a full‑circle moment to the band’s history.

Recommended for fans of Tenacious D, Spinal Tap, Psychostick, and Steel Panther, “Skids” (released March 27th, 2026) is available at the following links:

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/7M0suHkgLiADLzbMXegRjV

Bandcamp (CD and Digital) – https://sonsofbutcher.bandcamp.com/album/skids

Music Video – Makin’ Bacon – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lnsb7uWp4g

Music Video – Denim Dreamin’ – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZNUtzaO8IY

Track Listing:
1. Denim Dreamin’ – (3:05)
2. Makin’ Bacon – (2:37)
3. Steeltown Handy – (2:21)
4. Peppercorn Steak – (1:42)

EP Line Up:
Ricky Butcher – Lead Vocals, Guitar
Doug Borski – Vocals, Bass
Kellii Scott – Drums
Jordon Zadorozny – Lead Guitar
Brandon Wars – Lead Guitar

Live Band Line Up:
Ricky Butcher – Vocals, Guitar
Doug Borski – Vocals, Bass
Crissy Stixx – Drums
Joey Salami – Lead Guitar

More Info:

https://www.sonsofbutcher.ca/

https://www.facebook.com/therealsobs

https://www.instagram.com/therealsobs/

-30-

“You can have fun with the SONS OF BUTCHER… solid entertainment awaits you.” – PowerMetal.de

“Keeping with the butcher theme, the band played its fair share of meat-themed tunes such as “Beef & the Chicken” and “Makin’ Bacon” during their high energy set, alongside fan favourites like “Fuck the Shit”, “We Fuckin’ Rule,” and of course, “Sons of Butcher Theme,” all of it delivered with the proper big, dumb rock ‘n’ roll attitude and absolutely zero subtlety. Steeltown skids represent!” – Panic Manual (Live Review – Toronto 2026)

“After a ten year hiatus, the rock behind Teletoon’s cult animated series, is back as Sons of Butcher release a new 4-track EP, “Skids”. The riffs, thunderous percussion and lyrics are designed to put fun back in rock and that they do. Tracks like ‘Makin’ Bacon’, ‘Steeltown Handy’ and ‘Denim Dreamin” are built for a party and a great reminder that rock should never take itself too seriously. So if you’re lookin’ for a good time listen up for Sons of Butcher on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll

“Be careful, be careful, these Canadians are downright crazy and it starts to show as soon as you look at the cover. They do a crazy ’ Rock n’ Roll fuckin, crazy, humorous, delirious… this EP, well, that’s it, big fuckin’ madness. «Makin’ Bacon», for example, is hilarious, while sending the Caribou to play in the woods. This EP by SONS OF BUTCHER is a big slice of good humor, made by musicians who don’t take themselves seriously. Despite the weather, these guys are still crazy…. A CD for fans of ULTRA VOMIT, NANOWAR OF STEEL and others, in short for fans of joyful Metal. And that gives 4 titles for 4 peaks ! Personally, I’m really a customer.” – WTR Mag

“In its brief runtime, Skids delivers a clear statement: the band hasn’t lost its grit, just sharpened it… Sons of Butcher embraces its original spirit with honesty, energy, and unapologetic attitude… Skids finds meaning in the space between parody and authenticity, where the band has always thrived.” – FirstWave Radio

“Sons Of Butcher prove that after all these years they are still masters at combining sleazy rock, chaos, and pure fun. Anyone who loves dirty guitars, rattling rock, and a hefty dose of self-mockery is in the right place here. The gas pedal stays pressed – and fortunately so.” – Musika

““Skids” stands out as a release with a clear entertainment-driven focus… an immediate and thoroughly enjoyable listening experience.” – MetalWar

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media Relations
Instagram – AsherMedia
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0 Out Now! France’s HIGHWAY’s Return Louder Than Ever w/ New Album “Last Call for Rock’N’Roll” and Heart‑Wrenching Video “Mayday”

April 24, 2026
by Asher
· HighWay · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 24, 2026

Out Now! France’s HIGHWAY’s Return Louder Than Ever w/ New Album “Last Call for Rock’N’Roll”

+ New Heart‑Wrenching Video “Mayday”

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

France’s high‑voltage hard rockers HIGHWAY proudly announce that their long‑awaited sixth studio album, “Last Call for Rock N Roll,” is officially out now as of April 24th 2026, via label Rock City Music, and its release is accompanied by their brand‑new video for the deeply emotional single “Mayday.”

After the acoustic detour of The Journey (2022), HIGHWAY are back in full electric force, revved up, re-energised, and ready to reclaim their place among Europe’s new wave of classic hard rock.

In stark contrast to the album’s high‑octane anthems, “Mayday” strips everything down to voice and guitar, echoing the intimacy of Simon & Garfunkel. The track is a raw, vulnerable tribute to the passing of a loved one, written as a cathartic scream of pain, love, and memory. It’s not a power ballad. It’s a moment of truth.

The accompanying video amplifies the song’s emotional weight, offering fans a rare glimpse into the personal experiences that shaped the album’s lyrical core.

Watch and listen to the video for “Mayday” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rx_PkXTqyIA

“Last Call for Rock N Roll” is a rallying cry for a world in chaos, twelve brand‑new tracks that fuse power, melody, and emotion with the timeless spirit of classic hard rock. Produced and mixed by Brett Caldas‑Lima (Ayreon, Devin Townsend, Megadeth), the album was meticulously crafted over four months at Tower Studio to achieve a sound that is rich, organic, and explosively dynamic.

From the electrifying opener “Last Call (For Rock N’ Roll)” to the arena‑ready “Hi‑Way,” the swagger of “¡Bang Bang!”, and the AC/DC‑inspired punch of “D.K/D.C”, the album showcases the full spectrum of HIGHWAY’s identity, authentic, melodic, passionate, and fiercely alive.

The album also marks a turning point for HIGHWAY with the arrival of two new members, Cerise Pouillard (bass), known from the acclaimed AC/DC tribute Ladies Ballbreaker and Florian Arnaud (guitar), a powerhouse musician who completes the long‑awaited return of twin guitars. Both contribute backing vocals, elevating the band’s signature harmonies to new heights.

“With this lineup, the live sound is going to be massive. Big vocals, big energy, big production. You’re not ready,” adds guitarist Ben Chambert.

Formed in 1999 by brothers Ben and Romain Chambert after being “thunderstruck” by AC/DC’s Live at Donington, HIGHWAY have spent more than two decades refining its craft. With over 500 shows across Europe, support slots for Michael Schenker Group, Gotthard, Jeff Scott Soto, Kissin’ Dynamite, Nashville Pussy, and more, and a growing reputation, the band has become a defining force in Europe’s modern classic hard rock revival.

“This is our most personal, emotional, and mature record. We took the time we never had before, and we’re incredibly proud of every detail,” adds Ben.

Exploring themes of love, loss, resilience, nostalgia, and the pursuit of freedom. “Last Call for Rock’N’Roll” blends the band’s roots, AC/DC, Queen, Aerosmith, Guns N’ Roses, with their own melodic identity and modern production.

“Last Call for Rock’N’Roll” is now available via the label Rock City Music, with physical distribution
by FTF-Music and digitally from Virgin Music.

CD Digipack and exclusive collector LP at https://highwayshop.sumupstore.com/

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/1njIM62jUDeg4Td3iGSBHq

Music Videos:

“D.K/D.C” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FUFvVMWXQ4

“Hi-Way” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPYb7fBvNAU

“¡BANG BANG!” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGpYOR4Xx20

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

“Entertaining rock music that’s fun and appeals to a wide range of musical tastes. Party music for fans of everything from Queen to the Beatles!” – MyRevelations

“I really love this album; it really does have everything that your rock ‘n’ roll heart desires. Last Call For Rock ‘n’ Roll represents the past, present and future of rock ‘n’ roll. We are all in safe hands with HighWay.” – CGCM Rock Radio

“With this Last Call For Rock’n Roll, HighWay is strong. Throughout the 12 tracks, we feel the hard work put in by the musicians. The production really honors it. The 9/10 is easily imposed because this album is extremely enjoyable. Only one thing to hope for, that this is not their last call for rock’n roll, and that they continue to spread the good word in this way!” – Rock Meeting

““Last Call For Rock’ Roll” is the album that made me stop and pay attention to a band I should have discovered long before. For those who have been following them for years, it will probably be confirmation that the band has never been so sharp. For those who arrive now, like me, it is a magnificent gateway to 25 years of history that has suddenly become impossible to ignore. Let it not be the last call. Honest, urgent and without complexes. A great HighWay record!” – World of Metal Mag

“My preferences are « Go Go Go», more than addictive and designed to be covered live by the public, « Let Me», epic as can be and endowed in my opinion with the best solo of the album, as well as the hit « Hi-Way », wickedly groovy and powerful, notably thanks to Sam’s bass. Excellent feedback for Highway, which shows us that even more than 20 years after their debut, the Sétois still have something under their belt. Lovers of rich and varied hard rock, go for it: it’s a safe bet.” Pavillon 666 Webzine

“As they say in wild west saloons soaked in rock, sweat, smoke and beer, with HighWay it plays serious!!With this Last Call For Rock’n Roll, HighWay is strong. Throughout the 12 tracks we feel the great work put in by the musicians. The production really honors it.” – Vinyl Times

“This track (Bang Bang) fires with brash confidence while questioning the cost of excess. Beneath the swagger sits a sharp self-interrogation about fame, wealth, image, and the anxiety of choosing one path over another. Repetition becomes pressure, mirroring a mind spiralling under desire and doubt. It lands as both celebration and warning, pairing arena-sized hooks with a knowing sense of consequence that gives the noise purpose rather than empty bravado and lasting emotional weight beyond the chorus. To close, this single and forthcoming album won’t gather dust in any collection, and will keep feet tapping and heads bouncing from sofa to stage. So why not clear a space, and give Highway a try for 2026. Star Rating 9/10” – Stargazer Music Magazine

—-

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media Relations
Instagram – AsherMedia
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0 Thank You Canadian MDs and DJs, for the airplay love! \m/\m/ !earshot – The National Loud Chart For the Week Ending: Tuesday, April 21, 2026 #9 – Outlying | CJLO 1690 kHz – Montreal Loud – #6 Thunderor – Boonsdale Records | CJSR 88.5MHz – Edmonton Loud – #1 Outlying | CFOU 89.1 MHz – Trois-Rivieres Top 30 – #26 – Thunderor – Boonsdale Records | CFBX 92.5FM – Kamloops Top 30 – #17 Haiduk | CICK 93.9 – Smithers Top 30 – #15 Unpunished

April 23, 2026
by Asher
· Haiduk · Outlying · radio charts · Thunderor · Unpunished

Thank You Canadian MDs and DJs, for the airplay love! \m/\m/
!earshot – The National Loud Chart
For the Week Ending: Tuesday, April 21, 2026
#9 – Outlying
https://earshot-online.com/charts/index.cfm?intChartTypeID=106&dWeekOfID=2026-04-21
============================
CJLO 1690 kHz – Montreal
Loud – #6 Thunderor – Boonsdale Records
https://earshot-online.com/charts/cjlo.cfm?intChartTypeID=6&dWeekOfID=2026-04-21
============================
CJSR 88.5MHz – Edmonton
Loud – #1 Outlying
https://earshot-online.com/charts/cjsr.cfm?intChartTypeID=6&dWeekOfID=2026-04-21
============================
CFOU 89.1 MHz – Trois-Rivieres
Top 30 – #26 – Thunderor – Boonsdale Records
https://earshot-online.com/charts/cfou.cfm?dWeekOfID=2026-04-21
============================
CFBX 92.5FM – Kamloops
Top 30 – #17 Haiduk
https://earshot-online.com/charts/cfbx.cfm?dWeekOfID=2026-04-21
============================
CICK 93.9 – Smithers
Top 30 – #15 Unpunished
https://earshot-online.com/charts/cick.cfm?dWeekOfID=2026-04-21

0 !earshot – Loud Chart – For the Week Ending: Tuesday, April 14, 2026 CIVL 101.7 FM – Abbotsford Loud – #7 Juliet Ruin, #8 Phaeton | CJSW 90.9 MHz – Calgary Loud – #7 Discovery Through Torment, #9 Pythonic

April 23, 2026
by Asher
· Discovery Through Torment · Juliet Ruin · Phaeton · Pythonic · radio charts

!earshot – Loud Chart – For the Week Ending: Tuesday, April 14, 2026

CIVL 101.7 FM – Abbotsford
Loud – #7 Juliet Ruin, #8 Phaeton

https://earshot-online.com/charts/civl.cfm?intChartTypeID=6&dWeekOfID=2026-04-14

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CJSW 90.9 MHz – Calgary
Loud – #7 Discovery Through Torment, #9 Pythonic

https://earshot-online.com/charts/cjsw.cfm?intChartTypeID=6&dWeekOfID=2026-04-14

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0 EPK – Paradise – Queen of Mars (single) (2026)

April 23, 2026
by Asher
· EPKs · Paradise

EPK – Paradise – Queen of Mars (single) (2026)

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

Paradiserockband.com | Instagram.com/paradiserockmtl | Facebook.com/paradiserockmtl | Youtube.com/@paradiserockband5339

Paradiserockband.bandcamp.com | Spotify | Apple Music

“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

“Montreal based hard rock band Paradise have returned after a six year hiatus with a red hot new single, ‘Queen of Mars’. A sci-fi tale ripe with a deep bottom end, driving heavy riffs, percussive rolls, soaring guitar breaks and foreboding vocals, ‘Queen of Mars’ is a fantastic epic in a tidy four minutes. It’s also an impressive return to prominence as Paradise sets the stage with this strong statement. In rotation now on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE” -WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll

“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)

[Download Single Cover | Download Single Lyrics]

Band: Paradise
Single Title: Queen of Mars – 4:31
Release Date: April 28th, 2026
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: TUNECORE
Genre: Heavy Rock
Location of Band: Montreal, QC, Canada

Single Recording Credits:
• song performed by: R.L. Black, Frank Kelly, Fred Kelly, Freddy Crew Grr, Federico Castrogiovanni
• song written by: Frank Kelly, R.L. Black
• Produced by: Frank Kelly
• Mixed by: Federico Castrogiovanni
• Mastered by: Samuel Plante
• Single Artwork by: R.L. Black
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Recording Band Line Up:
François Kelly: Guitar
Frédéric Kelly: Bass
R.L. Black: Vox
Fred Crew Grr: Guitar
Samuel Plante and Federico Castrogiovanni: Drums

Live Band Line Up:
François Kelly: Guitar
Frédéric Kelly: Bass
R.L. Black: Vox
Fred Crew Grr: Guitar
Samuel Plante: Drums

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

About the single:

This song paints a mystical portrait of a timeless, wandering woman, “the Queen of Mars”, who symbolizes freedom, resilience, and transcendence. Moving through a desert that represents both isolation and memory, she exists beyond the limits of time and space, carrying stories, secrets, and a quiet power.

Her journey reflects a spirit that refuses to be confined: she’s both earthly and cosmic. The song suggests transformation and inner strength, someone who turns solitude into sovereignty, becoming almost mythic, even intimidating, as she rises above darkness and control.

In short, it’s about a lone, powerful figure who embodies eternal freedom, mystery, and the ability to transcend time, hardship, and identity.

The music is a hypnotic, cinematic space-rock track that blends atmospheric, heavy guitars with a steady, ritualistic rhythm, creating a sense of lonely grandeur. Its mood is mysterious, introspective, and empowered, evoking the feeling of a mythic figure moving through vast, otherworldly landscapes. Vocals are controlled and poetic, emphasizing storytelling over raw emotion, placing the song stylistically between Hawkwind’s cosmic art-rock, the dreamy textures of Dozer, and the dramatic, cinematic sweep of Muse.

Photo Credit – R.L. Black

Montreal summer of 2002. First, they were swept up in a wildly creative, almost electric state of mind, then proceeded to forge “volcanic rock” and chose a name: Paradise. The next day, still riding that same surge of inspiration, they came up with a title for their first album: Rock Anthropologists on the Kon-Tiki Voyage. Obviously, the creative energy hadn’t worn off. Co-founders and fellow guitar players, Frank Kelly and Jet Phil, convinced they had a great concept on their hands, fired up the rock riff machine and came up with a bunch of kick-ass rock and roll. Pretty soon, every track was assigned a title and, what do you know, they were all taken from a Kon-Tiki drink menu. It all made a lot of sense…

Still without any lyrics to complete the recipe, they set out to find someone crazy enough to work on their project. Through a mutual friend, rock promoter François Lalancette, they were introduced to singer-songwriter Richard Eusanio, who was more than crazy enough to jump in feet first. Within days, the record started to take shape. By this time, also on board was guitar master and the Sword‘s axeman Mike Plant. Paradise was happening…

Frank and Phil then recruited good friends, underground icon Xavier Caféine and drum god Michel “Away” Langevin of Voivod, to help. Pretty soon Paradise became big and loud…

The record was then sent to Glen Robinson (Voivod, Tea Party) to be mixed and mastered. Fall of 2002, Paradise came alive with the release of Rock Anthropologists on the Kon Tiki Voyage.

Summer of 2004: The boys were now ready for another roller-coaster ride. The usual suspects were rounded up, including bass man Fred Kelly. Now transported from the beaches of the South Pacific to the famous and even infamous hotels of this world, they began to work on Paradise’s follow-up “Hotel“. Everybody was ready for the trip.

During the sessions in the summer of 2004, they were blessed with the inspirational collaboration of Voivod‘s guitar pioneer, the late but great Denis “Piggy” D’Amour, who left his stamp on a couple of titles before losing his battle to illness in August of 2005. Mixed and mastered again by Glen Robinson, Paradise’s Hotel was released in the winter of 2005, and once again, it all made a lot of sense.

2019 /2020: With the will of the volcanic rock gods, the resurrection of Paradise was inevitable. The then line-up was composed of Frank Kelly (guitars), Fred Kelly (bass), R.L. Black (vocals), Fred Crew Grrr (guitars) and Mat Hias (drums), Paradise, like a phoenix that is reborn from its ashes, releases a new eponymous album that sways on the line between hard rock and pure heavy metal (recorded, mixed and mastered by Kevin Jardine from Slaves On Dope). From the opening piece and future classic “Straight From Hell” to the final “Free in Exile”, through “Hitting On All Sixes” and “Long Gone”, Paradise delivers an album where the balance between catchy riffs, attitude, intensity, and melodies is perfect.

2026: After years of letting the idea simmer somewhere between myth and memory, Paradise resurfaces, still driven by that same untamed creative force, to finally close the loop. This time, the voyage goes further: an intergalactic expedition where they fully embrace their role as rock anthropologists, digging through the strange, colorful relics of ’60s and ’70s sci-fi culture. Analog futures, cosmic psychedelia, and B-movie dreams reimagined through roaring guitars and hypnotic riffs. Paradise, once again locked into their riff-fueled orbit, set out to translate that retro-futuristic universe into sound. Each track becomes a transmission, a fragment of a larger journey; part nostalgia, part exploration, bringing their Kon-Tiki vision full circle, only now it’s drifting somewhere far beyond the stars.

Discography:
2026 – Queen of Mars (single)
2020 Paradise
2004 Hotel
2002 Rock Anthropologists on the Kon-Tiki Voyage

Shared Stage with:
Sword, Anvil, Sandveiss, Anonymus, Deadwood, Nova Spei, Global Haulocost, Hazytones

Tours and Festivals:
2019: Cuban tour
2024: NXNE – Toronto, ON
2024: Metalagora
2025: Gaspesian Metal Fest

Corporate sponsors/artist endorsements:
Frank Kelly has an artist deal with Reverend Guitars
Samuel Plante has an artist deal with Collision Drumsticks

0 ASHEN HORDE Unleashes Third Single “Apparition” from Forthcoming Album “The Harvest” Out May 1st

April 22, 2026
by Asher
· ASHEN HORDE · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 22, 2026

ASHEN HORDE Unleashes Third Single “Apparition” from Forthcoming Album “The Harvest” Out May 1st

Photos by @still.squill (Trevor); Photo Dun Right (Karl); unknown (Robin)

Los Angeles extreme metal collective Ashen Horde continues their march toward the release of their fifth full‑length album, “The Harvest,” arriving May 1st, 2026. Following the crushing momentum of the first two singles, “Entropy and Ecstasy” and “Voids in the Ash”, the band now reveals their third offering, the blistering and atmospheric “Apparition.”

The new track showcases the band’s signature fusion of death metal ferocity, black‑metal tension, and progressive unpredictability. Described by guitarist and primary songwriter Trevor Portz as “probably the heaviest song on the album,” “Apparition” draws inspiration from early death metal before veering into eerie, off‑kilter riffing with a vaguely 70s undercurrent. Lyrically, vocalist Karl Chamberlain inhabits the voice of a tormented ghost, condemned to witness humanity’s worst impulses while questioning whether his eternal imprisonment is punishment for forgotten sins.

“He’s slowly going insane in his eternal prison,” Portz explains, capturing the psychological dread that permeates the track.

Listen to “Apparition” at the following links:

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

Bandcamp – https://ashenhorde.bandcamp.com/

“The Harvest” marks the band’s first full‑length release with Chamberlain, whose dynamic vocal range has expanded Ashen Horde’s sonic palette. Though not a traditional concept album, the record is unified by a central theme: endings. Each track explores a different facet of finality—personal, societal, mythological, or apocalyptic.

The album’s striking cover art, created by artist Venus Kohana, features two red skeletons that immediately captivated Portz when he encountered the piece at an art show. The imagery not only set the visual tone for the album but also directly inspired the lyrics of the title track.

“It’s unique and cool, and very metal; it even inspired the lyrics to the title track,” says Portz.

Musically, “The Harvest” is Ashen Horde at their most varied and adventurous. From the Voivod‑tinged chaos of “Entropy and Ecstasy” to the grunge‑infused harmonies and volcanic fury of “Voids in the Ash”, a song depicting the final days of Pompeii, the album thrives on contrast. Tracks like “Backward Momentum” blend Opeth‑style clean vocal layering with 90s‑inspired riff breaks, while “Autumnal” opens the record with a slow‑burn ascent into full black‑metal intensity.

The rollout for “The Harvest” began with the release of “Entropy and Ecstasy”, accompanied by a music video that marked the first time any two members of Ashen Horde had ever performed together, despite the band’s decade‑long history. The track introduced fans to Chamberlain’s voice and set the thematic tone for the album with its tale of a couple who find exhilaration in global collapse.

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

The second single, “Voids in the Ash,” followed with a dramatic shift in mood and style. Inspired by the destruction of Pompeii, the track blends moody, slow-burning verses with explosive black‑metal passages, showcasing the band’s love of sharp stylistic contrasts.

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

Recorded entirely remotely, “The Harvest’ is the culmination of Ashen Horde’s evolution from a one‑man project into a fully realized extreme metal entity. The album’s eight tracks explore endings through myth, history, personal struggle, and existential dread, all filtered through the band’s genre‑defying approach.

The title track, inspired by the album’s artwork, imagines a hidden entity watching humanity’s self‑destruction until the moment it decides to emerge and consume everything, a metaphor for our species’ relentless march toward ruin.

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

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

“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 AFTER INFINITY Shares New Single “King With No Crown” From Upcoming Album “Beyond Eternity” Out Fall 2026

April 21, 2026
by Asher
· After Infinity (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 21, 2026

AFTER INFINITY Shares New Single “King With No Crown”

New Album “Beyond Eternity” Out Fall 2026 via Rockshots Records

Album Guest Vocalists Paolo Ribaldini (Delain, Leverage, Seraphiel), Aitor Arrastia (Metal de Facto), Nitte Valo (Dreamtale, ex-Battle Beast), Mika Tauriainen (Entwine, Shamrain), Sara Strömmer (Shereign, ex-Fear of Domination), Leonard F. Guillan (ex-King Company)

Finnish melodic metal act After Infinity return with “Beyond Eternity“, a sophomore release that consolidates and expands the project’s identity with a sharper focus on compositional depth, vocal diversity, and emotional range. Conceived and led by guitarist and songwriter Zsolt Szilagyi, the album builds on the foundation of the band’s 2024 debut, pushing further into progressive structures while retaining a strong melodic core.

The album campaign kicks off with “King With No Crown”, featuring Paolo Ribaldini on vocals and accompanied by an official lyric video. Built on heavy guitar work and dramatic orchestrations, the track channels themes of rebellion against illegitimate power. Alongside it, the band will also unveil “Hands of Time” as a standalone single, featuring Aitor Arrastia (Metal De Facto) on vocals – a 12-minute progressive composition that represents the most ambitious and conceptually expansive piece of the entire record.

Rather than relying on a fixed vocalist, “Beyond Eternity” embraces a rotating cast of performers, transforming each track into a distinct narrative space. The album features six different guest singers, each contributing a specific tonal identity while remaining anchored to a cohesive sonic framework defined by layered orchestrations, dynamic guitar work, and carefully structured arrangements.

Musically, the record operates at the intersection of power metal, heavy metal, and progressive metal, balancing immediacy and complexity. High-impact compositions driven by tight riffing and symphonic textures coexist with more restrained moments, including piano-led passages and atmospheric interludes. This contrast is structural: each track is designed to fulfill a precise role within the album’s flow, avoiding redundancy and reinforcing a continuous sense of variation.

Lyrically, “Beyond Eternity” explores a wide emotional spectrum, moving between anger, resistance, introspection, and hope. While “King With No Crown” embodies collective uprising, other tracks shift toward personal reflection and existential questioning. The closing “Hands of Time” expands this vision into a philosophical exploration of time, the origins of the universe, and the meaning of existence itself, reinforcing the album’s progressive dimension.

From a production standpoint, the album maintains a consistent sonic identity while allowing individual performances to retain their character. Produced by Zsolt Szilagyi, the record features mixing handled primarily by Benjamin Connelly with mastering by Jasse Kesti, ensuring clarity across its dense arrangements and multi-layered instrumentation.

The collaborative dimension is central to the project’s evolution. Alongside Szilagyi, the album features orchestrations by Gideon Ricardo and bass performances by Ville Koskinen, while an extensive list of guest vocalists – including Paolo Ribaldini, Mika Tauriainen, Sara Strömmer, and Aitor Arrastia – reinforces the album’s multi-faceted identity without compromising its coherence.

Following a well-received debut praised for its songwriting and musicianship, After Infinity refine their approach with “Beyond Eternity“, delivering a record that prioritizes compositional intent, variation, and emotional impact over formula. The result is a work that moves fluidly between melodic accessibility and progressive ambition, positioning the band within the contemporary European metal landscape with a clearly defined artistic direction.

Listen: https://lnk.to/LktetC
Official Lyric Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y3z6pfBeDqo

“Beyond Eternity” will be released this Fall 2026 via Rockshots Records.

For fans of: Sonata Arctica, Symphony X, Helloween

After Infinity Line-up:

Zsolt Szilagyi: Guitars, Synths, Drum Programming, Backing Vocals
Gideon Ricardo: Orchestrations, Synths
Ville Koskinen: Bass

Guest Vocalists:

Paolo Ribaldini (Delain, Leverage, Seraphiel)
Aitor Arrastia (Metal de Facto)
Nitte Valo (Dreamtale, ex-Battle Beast)
Mika Tauriainen (Entwine, Shamrain)
Sara Strömmer (Shereign, ex-Fear of Domination)
Leonard F. Guillan (ex-King Company)

More info: https://www.rockshots.eu | https://www.instagram.com/afterinfinityofficial | https://www.facebook.com/afterinfinityofficial

ABOUT:

After Infinity is a Finnish melodic power and heavy metal project founded in 2022 by guitarist and songwriter Zsolt Szilagyi, known for his work with Dreamtale and Frozen Factory. Built around a flexible and collaborative structure, the band emerged from Szilagyi’s desire to move beyond a purely solo approach and create a dynamic musical environment involving multiple performers.

Rather than relying on a fixed line-up of vocalists, After Infinity developed a distinctive identity by working with a wide range of guest singers, allowing each track to take on its own character while maintaining a cohesive artistic vision.

This approach quickly became a defining element of the project, turning it into a platform where different voices and influences converge.

The band’s sound blends heavy guitar riffs, rich orchestrations, and strong melodic hooks, moving seamlessly between powerful metal compositions and more introspective passages driven by piano and atmospheric textures. Drawing from power metal, heavy metal, and progressive influences, After Infinity aims to deliver a diverse listening experience shaped by contrast, emotion, and compositional depth.

Their self-titled debut album, released in 2024, received positive feedback for its songwriting and musicianship, establishing the project within the contemporary Finnish metal scene. Building on that foundation, the sophomore album “Beyond Eternity” further expands the band’s sonic palette, introducing new guest vocalists and pushing the balance between heaviness, melody, and progressive elements while preserving the core identity that defines After Infinity.

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

2 IRON KINGDOM Forge “Blood and Steel” w/ Second Single From New Album “Shadows and Dust” Out June 2026 + Cross Canada Tour!

April 21, 2026
by Asher
· Iron Kingdom · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 21, 2026

IRON KINGDOM Forge “Blood and Steel” w/ Second Single From New Album “Shadows and Dust” Out June 2026

Sixth Album “Shadows and Dust” Out June 6th, 2026 via Steel Shark Records

Headline Hometown Show in Vancouver + Cross Canada Tour! and Armstrong Metal Fest, Loud As Hell Open Air Fest

L-R – Leighton Holmes (Bass), Max Friesen (Drums), Chris Osterman (Lead Vocals / Lead Guitar), Megan Merrick (Lead Guitar)

Photo Credit – Cailin Haley

Vancouver, Canada’s traditional heavy metal torchbearers IRON KINGDOM return with the second single from their upcoming sixth studio album “Shadows and Dust,” due out June 6, 2026, marking their first release under their new label partnership with Steel Shark Records (France), which will offer an exclusive EU edition limited to just 300 double‑CD copies. Disc 1 will contain the full “Shadows and Dust” album, while Disc 2 will feature a “Best Of” collection highlighting tracks from Iron Kingdom’s previous five releases. In addition, the label will introduce a third vinyl colour (100 copies) available only to EU fans.

Following the momentum of their first single and music video “Defenders”, the band now unveils the powerful new track “Blood and Steel”, accompanied by an epic lyric video that dives deep into the album’s themes of endurance, mortality, and the human cost of ambition.

Bassist Leighton Holmes explains further:

“The inspiration for ‘Blood and Steel’ came from two places. One draws from Steven Erikson’s Malazan Book of the Fallen, and the other from imagining myself as a soldier in Alexander the Great’s army, twelve years into a campaign, thousands of miles from home, questioning how I got there. The endless marching, the battles, the weight of the gear… It’s a brutal life, and in a small way, it parallels the blood, sweat, and tears of touring in a band.”

Musically, “Blood and Steel” stands apart in the IRON KINGDOM catalogue.

“We wanted the song to feel like a march. It’s very bass‑ and drum‑driven in the verses, with guitars layered in strategic spots. It’s a different kind of song for us, and I think it’s going to add something special to our live sets,” adds vocalist/guitarist Chris Osterman.

Watch and listen to “Blood and Steel” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qb8BIzHT3_Q

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/6SDL7czZLBENHKRRbFvrQl

“Shadows and Dust” is IRON KINGDOM’s most emotionally charged and thematically dark album to date, ten tracks exploring death, hardship, impermanence, and the resilience required to push through life’s most difficult trials. The cover art, inspired by the story behind “Blood and Steel,” depicts an army marching across a desolate landscape, echoing the album’s central themes of struggle and perseverance.

“This album plays in a dark realm. But that’s exactly what will make it accessible to people going through tough times. The music shows hope for a way out. It’s a journey, one we can’t wait for fans to experience front to back,” says Osterman.

In additional news, to celebrate the release of “Shadows and Dust,” IRON KINGDOM will headline a special hometown album release show at the Rickshaw Theatre on June 5, 2026. Fans can expect the band’s signature high‑energy performance, raw, loud, and unapologetically traditional heavy metal. Info at https://orangetickets.ca/detalles_evento.php?id_evento=2127

The album release show will also serve as the band’s tour kick-off, as the band will hit the road this summer across Canada in support of “Shadows and Dust,” including confirmed festival appearances at Armstrong Metal Fest and Loud As Hell Open Air Festival.

True North Strong And Heavy Canadian Tour – Iron Kingdom, W.M.D.
https://www.iron-kingdom.com/tour-dates
June 5 – Vancouver, BC – The Rickshaw
July 2 – Nanaimo, BC – The Globe
July 3 – Victoria, BC – Lucky Bar
July 4 – Cumberland, BC – The Waverley
July 5 – Powell River, BC – The Carlson Loft
July 17 – Armstrong, BC – AMF 2026
July 21 – Prince George, BC – Knox Performance Centre
July 23 – Whitehorse, YT – Lefty’s Well
July 24 – Dawson City, YT – The Pit
July 25 – Dawson City, YT – The Pit
July 26 – Whitehorse, YT – The 98 Hotel
July 28 – Yellowknife, NT – The Underground
July 29 – Fort Smith, NT – Dirty O’ Fergie’s
July 30 – Edmonton, AB – Starlite
July 31 – Drumheller, AB – LAH 2026
Aug 1 – Winnipeg, MB – Park Theatre
Aug 2 – Thunder Bay, ON – Bloom Bar + Lounge
Aug 3 – Sudbury, ON – The Lounge 390
Aug 4 – London, ON – Supply & Demand
Aug 5 – Waterloo, ON – Maxwells
Aug 6 – Ottawa, ON – Dominion Tavern
Aug 7 – Toronto, ON – Bovine
Aug 8 – Montreal, QC – Foufounes Electriques
Aug 9 – Sherbrooke, QC – Le Murdoch
Aug 11 – Woodstock, NB – Monteith Manor
Aug 12 – Halifax, NS – Gus’ Pub
Aug 14 – Corner Brook, NL – Retro
Aug 15 – St. John’s, NL – The Rockhouse
Aug 17 – Truro, NS – Marigold Cult. Centre (Lobby)
Aug 18 – Quebec City, QC – L’Anti
Aug 19 – Hamilton, ON – Doors Pub
Aug 21 – Saskatoon, SK – Black Cat Tavern
Aug 22 – Calgary, AB – Dicken’s
Aug 23 – Kelowna, BC – Jackknife Brewing

Formed in 2011, IRON KINGDOM have spent over a decade championing the classic heavy metal tradition, drawing influence from legends such as Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Helloween, The Scorpions, and Rush. Known for their electrifying live performances, intricate musicianship, and unwavering dedication to the genre, the band has toured extensively across Canada, the USA, Europe, and Brazil, sharing stages with acts like Night Demon and Blaze Bayley.

“Shadows and Dust” marks the next chapter in their evolution, an album that blends old‑school metal spirit with fresh energy and emotional depth.

Album Teaser – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmWn8pKOyh0

Music Video – “Defenders” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3k7tW5-9Os

Album pre-order (release date June 6th, 2026) available at the following links:

Official Merch store: https://www.iron-kingdom.com/shop
Bandcamp: https://iron-kingdom.bandcamp.com/music

Track Listing:
1. Defenders
2. Eternal Emperor
3. Dreamless Sea
4. Deadhouse Gates
5. Line Of Fire
6. Blood And Steel
7. Shadow Of Time
8. Dark Demands
9. Starlight
10. Sacred Fire

For more info:
https://www.iron-kingdom.com
https://www.facebook.com/ironkingdomofficial
https://www.instagram.com/iron_kingdom

– 30 –

“Ten tracks leading to a beautiful journey you will wish to live forever. A masterpiece to own with pleasure. Iron Kingdom has arrived on the stardom stairs, and it’s worth it 100/100.” – The Metal Mag (Shadows and Dust 2026)

“Loads of riffs and melodies some excellent lead breaks and pounding rhythms. This is bonafide, foot on the monitor, fist pumping, horn throwing real metal. I have never heard Iron Kingdom before but on the strength of this I will be obtaining the back catalogue very soon.” – My Global Mind (The Blood of Creation 2022)

“If you haven’t checked out Iron Kingdom’s earlier releases and you dig pure ’80s metal, grab a copy of The Blood of Creation then get ready to hunt down their earlier catalog. You will not be disappointed.” – The Metal Crypt (The Blood of Creation 2022)

“I am compelled to say that IRON KINGDOM most surely outdone themselves with “The Blood Of Creation”… A distinctively distinguished experience in Heavy Metal relishment distils at an epically entrancing adventure, should you desire it… an injection in infectiously venomous momentum most definitely deserves interest – do check it out.” – Metal Temple (The Blood of Creation 2022)

“With The Blood Of Creation, Iron Kingdom have forged a masterpiece that brings tears of joy to the eyes of every traditional metalhead. There is only high-quality material and everyone is encouraged to include this album in their choice of this year’s Top10. ” – Soundmagnet (The Blood of Creation 2022)

“To put a bow on IRON KINGDOM’s The Blood of Creation, it’s dang good, borderline perfect and any fan of hard rock and heavy metal that is slathered with soaring epic vocals, dual guitar rhythm and shredding solo’s layed down on a feather bed of thunderous, galloping and filling chattering drums and bass then go, go, go get you some of this. A monster thank you to Chris for taking the time to chat me up and gift me this glorious CD. Now I need to go and get the back catalog…” – KNAC (The Blood of Creation 2022)

“a barnstorming barrage of blistering heavy metal, highly head bang-able and immensely infectious.” – Metal Gods TV (The Blood of Creation 2022)

“”The Blood of Creation” is a satisfying excursion into metal classicism.” – Wormwood Chronicles (The Blood of Creation 2022)

“This is a solid album of heavy metal delivered in the style that is true to the cause and therefore, what the listener gets here with ‘The Blood of Creation’, is an album which mounts its steeds and charges forward in a cavalry strike as galloping riffage and rhythms never give the listener the chance to let up with tracks such as ‘Queen of the Crystal Throne’, ‘In the Grip of Nightmares’ and ‘Witching Hour’ having some very impressive twin guitar lines. This would impress any fan of Iron Maiden, Riot V and Iced Earth, but also sticks within the remit of trad metal with bands such as Katana, Skelator and Toledo Steel.” – Metal Digest (The Blood of Creation 2022)

“Anyone who likes beautiful and playful melodies, extensive guitar solos, detailed arrangements and double lead guitars will be well served with “The Blood Of Creation”.” – PowerMetal.de (The Blood of Creation 2022)

“The musicianship is solid, the lead work sharp and Osterman’s high-pitched vocals can certainly hit the heights. His soaring shrill delivery on ‘Queen of the Crystal Throne’ demonstrates that perfectly. New drummer Max Friesen makes his recording debut for the band and puts in a sterling effort with some robust and powerful performances.” – Ever-Metal (The Blood of Creation 2022)

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