Posts By Asher

0 Decibel Magazine Video Premiere – CELESTIAL WIZARD Roll Nat 20s With New Video “Ice Realm” Off “Winds Of The Cosmos” Out July 2022

June 2, 2022
by Asher
· Celestial Wizard · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 2, 2022

CELESTIAL WIZARD Roll Nat 20s With New Video “Ice Realm” Off “Winds Of The Cosmos” Out July 2022

Music Video Premiere via Decibel Magazine

Combining their passions of Dungeons and Dragons, space adventure, and fantasy, Denver, Colorado’s Celestial Wizard takes influences like Arch Enemy, Metallica, Firewind, and Turisas and forge a path all their own! They have their second album coming out this year, the fantastical and fun-filled “Winds Of The Cosmos” and the first foray into this epic jaunt is the single “Ice Realm”.

The track is punchy and vibrant right out of the gate, drawing listeners in with its thrashy opening riff. The track is upbeat, fun, and engaging, keeping the energy sky-high through the entire song. The song takes the listener on a Dungeons and Dragons-inspired quest through frost-covered land in search of a magic weapon to dispel the realm’s icy curse. Guitarist/vocalist Nick Daggers details the single:

“The main riff at the beginning of the album was one that I had written even before we had recorded our first album. It’s such a fun song to play, and I’m happy it finally made the cut for an album. For a long time, a few of us used to play DnD together, and I think that developed our creativity tenfold in terms of writing for the band. It’s so incredible that we get to take that passion and those experiences and craft them into a song that so many people will get to enjoy. I think the song definitely captured the energy we had so many years ago playing the game together, and I’m so happy we get to share that with everyone.”

Modern and melodic, this album will be a breath of fresh air for Celestial Wizard’s existing fans as it is a massive leap forward in production quality and musicianship, being their most cohesive, collaborative work to date. New fans will be enticed by catchy, nerdy choruses overlaying the melodic death metal riffs. Their fire and passion are evident in both the single and the album, making it hard to sit still for this one. Celestial Wizard will be enjoyed by nerds of all kinds and especially fans of Dark Tranquillity, Firewind, and Amon Amarth.

The music video for the single “Ice Realm” can be seen and heard via its premiere on Decibel Magazine HERE.

The album “Winds Of The Cosmos” comes out on July 15, 2022.

Album pre-order at https://celestialwizard.bandcamp.com.

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3IQUtFB

Track Listing:
1. Andromeda (2:25)
2. Revenant (5:30)
3. Ice Realm (4:08)
4. Powerthrone (4:30)
5. Eternal Scourge (5:32)
6. Steel Chrysalis (4:26)
7. Undead Renegade (5:04)
8. Cyberhawk (4:26)
9. Winds Of The Cosmos (7:44)
Album Length: 42:45

Album Band Line Up:
Nick Daggers – Guitar, Vocals
Guillermo Jurado – Guitar, Bass
Tim Gillman – Drums
Amethyst Noir – Vocals

Live Band Line Up:
Nick Daggers – Guitar, Vocals
Dahlia McAluney – Bass
Tim Gillman – Drums
Amethyst Noir – Vocals

For more info:
Facebook.com/CelestialWizardOfficial
Instagram.com/celestialwizard_co
EPK – https://wp.me/pciNW-hMK

About:
Celestial Wizard is a fantasy-inspired heavy metal band based out of Denver, Colorado. Formed in 2018, this heavy metal quartet delivers crushing riffs and grand stories of dragons and wizards. Seeking to stand out among the others, Celestial Wizard combines the best elements of death metal with symphonic and synthwave elements creating a unique and engaging sound.

In the beginning, they carried a symphonic, fantasy sound dousing every song with a healthy dose of strings, choirs, synthesizers, and the like. This vibe can be heard on their debut album “A Sinister Awakening” (2018). Intended to be a concept album, they marketed some of the limited edition tapes and mini VHS tapes as though the album was a movie, thus The tapes ended up getting put in the soundtrack section of record stores.

The next year, drummer Tim Gillman joined Nick Daggers (guitar/vocals), Guillermo Jurado (guitar/bass), and Amethyst Noir (vocals) and they slashed most of the unnecessary backing tracks and refocused the music on the riffs and the core elements of the band. The evolution is reflected in the second album “Winds Of The Cosmos” (2022) (Release Date July 15th).

They deliver an energetic and engaging performance while keeping the sound tight. They make an effort each night to make their songs come alive and immerse the audience in their love for playing. They have played with bands including Alestorm, Gloryhammer, Insomnium, Nekrogoblikon, and Unleash The Archers. Combining their passions of Dungeons and Dragons, space adventure, and fantasy, Celestial Wizard takes influences like Arch Enemy, Metallica, Firewind, and Turisas and forge a path all their own!

– 30 –

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
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0 EPK – Quiescent Mantis – Shake The Cage (single) (2022)

June 1, 2022
by Asher
· EPKs · Quiescent Mantis

EPK – Quiescent Mantis – Shake The Cage (single) (2022)

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

For fans of Killswitch Engage, Pantera, Machine Head, Gojira, Motorhead

“Shake The Cage was the first song we wrote for our upcoming album with its sole purpose to show our musical ability and a way for all of us to showcase what this next chapter in the swarm and our album is going to be like. We were shooting for a song that will keep the audience moving when played live whether it means headbanging, moshing, singing, or all of the above. The song defines our sound and our music abilities as a whole better than anything we have released so far.” – Chris Trainor – Quiescent Mantis

Single Title: Shake The Cage (single)
Release Date: January 14, 2022
Label: WaveTransform Studios
Distribution: Distrokid

Facebook.com/QuiescentMantis | Instagram.com/quiescent_mantis | YouTube

Spotify | Apple Music | Amazon

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

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. Quiescent Mantis had our first show with Summoners Circle at the open chord alongside good friends 1134 and Forest of Jinn. Summoners Circle are local legends in Knoxville so we came into that show wanting to bring as much energy as we could physically bring as we usually do. Chris was going down on the ground with the crowd to play our instrumental prey. Without hesitation, we started the song and a big circle pit formed around him still one of the craziest things he has witnessed. The swarm took over

2. Before Quiescent Mantis had fully formed Jordan sent me (Chris Trainor) a message asking if I wanted to join the band because of the guitar in my profile picture which is my dean ml select in ocean blue but honestly glad I actually responded because these guys I’m with are insanely talented.

3. Shake The Cage started its life as an instrumental that we actually played multiple times on stage before it had lyrics with it.

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

[Download Single Cover | Download Single Lyrics]

Single Title: Shake The Cage (single)
Release Date: January 14, 2022
Label: WaveTransform Studios
Distribution: Distrokid

Track Listing – Shake the Cage (5:13) (single)

Single Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Chris Trainor, Jordan Mckenzie, and Johnny Mejia
• All songs written by: Chris Trainor, Jordan Mckenzie, Johnny Mejia
• Produced by: Yanic Bercier
• Mixed by: Yanic Bercier
• Mastered by: Alan Doches
• Album Artwork by: Spacer Art

Band Recording and Live Line Up:
Chris Trainor – Guitarist / Backup Vocals
Jordan Mckenzie – Bass and Vocals
Johnny Mejia – Drums

L-R – Johnny Mejia – Drums, Chris Trainor – Guitarist / Backup Vocals, Jordan Mckenzie – Bass and Vocals
Photo Credit – Nate Wills – Promotion LLC

Former scientists Chris Trainor, Jordan McKenzie, and Johnny Mejia were previously employed by Sub-atomic Weight of Acceleration Research Mechanics or S.W.A.R.M. While working on a project involving particle collision the team inadvertently tore open a brief doorway to the mantis homeworld exposing themselves to a mind-altering pheromone in the process.

The trio is now obsessed with opening the portal permanently allowing their mantis overlords access to our world; they are harbingers of the Swarm, selected to terraform and prepare Earth for the coming invasion. Wielding mighty instruments of sonic assault they herald the approach of the swarm of the brutal blend of thrash death metal and hardcore. The Swarm has slumbered in exile for far too long, the gates are ready to open, and it’s time to join the Swarm!

Quiescent Mantis is:
Chris Trainor – Guitarist / Backup Vocals
Jordan Mckenzie – Bass and Vocals
Johnny Mejia – Drums

Discography:
2022 – Shake The Cage- single
2021- Chapter 1 – EP

Shared Stage with:
Summoner’s Circle, Worm Shepherd, The Breathing Process, Autumn Lies Buried, Until the Dead Walk, Belfast 6 Pack, We Lye Cold, S’efforcer, Bacalou

0 Out Now! California Hardcore Thrash Crossover SPLIT IMAGE Unleash New Album “Torrent of Illusion” + Tour Dates w/ Psycho Mantis

June 1, 2022
by Asher
· Music News · Split Image

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 1, 2022

Out Now! California Hardcore Thrash Crossover SPLIT IMAGE Unleash New Album “Torrent of Illusion”

+ Tour Dates w/ Psycho Mantis

L to R – Christian “Chris” Sia – Drums, Jared Mooney – Lead Guitar, Joshua “Josh” Escobar – Vocals, Nadesha Mariudottir – Bass, Joey Sia – Rhythm Guitar
Photo Credit – Sam Stoutenburg

Murrieta, CA’s Split Image is releasing their debut album “Torrent of Illusion” right away and supporting it later this summer with a tour with their friends in Psycho Mantis. A gritty and powerful crossover experience, the band expects an enthusiastic reception from their fans due to its intensity, and also its relatability. The album packs a punch, it deals with intense lyrical themes surrounding mental health and rounds it out with aggressive hard-hitting instrumentals. The band comments:

“Split Image is beyond stoked to finally release our debut album Torrent of Illusion. The time has come to move forward from the clutches of the COVID pandemic and there will be nothing prohibiting us from touching the hearts of many individuals while reaching the deepest levels of connections with current and new fans. We are all about unity through music and with Torrent of Illusion being released we strongly believe that our listeners will truly appreciate the messages of becoming hyper-aware of yourself as an individual as well as being aware of others around us. Take care of yourself and others around you because we are all we have.”

Belted out with passion, Split Image’s lyrics stem from the various experiences they’ve endured like the loss of a loved one, grief, and perspectives they’ve had or envisioned as well as spirituality. They combine this with a unique sound that boasts familiarity through thrashy riffs, progressive, technical elements, and a solid nod to old-school hardcore.

Split Image will be cruising around the South West states in August and September and those who take in one of their live gigs will be met with a cosmic force – one which allows the crowd to reciprocate the energy radiating from the stage. In other words, nothing but pure energy and tight rhythm, a solid but minimalist performance.

With a dash of many genres, Split Image will be of interest to those who like thrash, punk, crust, and hardcore. Fans of Power Trip, Enforced, and Dead Heat should take note.

“Torrent of Illusion” is being released on June 1, 2022.

Splitimage.bandcamp.com, Spotify

EP Stream – https://youtu.be/HBe2JCWhuNo

Music Video – Facades – https://youtu.be/Dr8EnLlljDE

Lyric Video – Sulfur Pits – https://youtu.be/oUm-5XeZx4k

Track Listing:
1. Socialized Crucifixion – (2:34)
2. Justified Suicide – (3:18)
3. Room With A View – (4:19)
4. Blank Shot – (4:03)
5. Facades – (2:35)
6. Mirrorstains – (4:13)
Album Length (21 Minutes)

Psycho Image Tour 2022 – Spilt Image, Psycho Mantis
Aug 26 – Murrieta, CA – The Barn
Aug 27 – Canoga Park, CA- Scotland Yard
Aug 28 – Fresno, CA – TBA
Aug 29 – Sacramento, CA – The Colony
Aug 30 – Anderson, CA – Demented Designs
Sept 1 – Portland, OR – No Fun Bar
Sept 2 – Seattle, WA – Lucky Liquor
Sept 3 – Chehalis, WA – McFilers
Sept 6 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Bee Hive
Sept 7 – Las Vegas, NV – The Truth Spot
Sept 9 – Phoenix, AZ – The Blooze Bar
Sept 10 – Hemet, CA – House Will

For more info:
https://www.facebook.com/SplitImageCA/
https://www.instagram.com/splitimageca/

– 30 –

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

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0 Rockshots Records – BLACK SUN Shares Full Stream of Band’s Award Winning Short Film “Silent Enemy” (32 FilmFest Award Wins)

June 1, 2022
by Asher
· Black Sun (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 1, 2022

Rockshots Records – BLACK SUN Shares Full Stream of Band’s Award Winning Short Film “Silent Enemy” (32 FilmFest Award Wins)

Latest EP “Silent Enemy” Out Now!
EP guests include members from Sonata Arctica, Lordi, Battle Beast,
Thunderstone, Smackbound, Omnium Gatherum, Wintersun, Damnation Plan,
Arion, Firewind, Ensiferum, Norther, JF Aguirre Project

Well known in their home country of Ecuador and South America for supporting bands like Judas Priest, Kreator, Firewind (Immortals Tour 2018), Edguy, UDO, and more. Heavy metal trio Black Sun unleashed their EP “Silent Enemy” in September 2020 via Rockshots Records.

To support the EP, Black Sun teamed up with director and screenwriter Gustavo Arguello to produce a short film of the same title featuring music from the record as its soundtrack. After two years of circulating at film fests around the world and winning multiple awards, Black Sun is streaming the film for fans in full via Rockshots Records‘ Youtube channel at https://youtu.be/U0CVeKMnYmY

This cinematographic work features renowned Ecuadorian actors José Andrés Caballero and Mare Cevallos as its main protagonists. “Silent Enemy”, the film, has already been awarded 32 awards at different international film festivals. Along with a musical background, the story of John Doe’s journey through turbulent times unfolds, finally coming to understand himself when the film’s message is revealed. Silent Enemy was independently produced and filmed in Guayaquil, Ecuador. A Black Sun and Bobui Studios production, this film paves the way for experimentation and rediscovery of the musical film concept.

(32 AWARDS WINNER SHORTFILM)
– HOLLYWOOD GOLDEN AWARDS: 1 AWARD IN: BEST ACTION SHORTFILM.
– NEW YORK CINEMATOGRAPHY AWARDS: 3 AWARDS IN: BEST VFX / BEST ORIGINAL MUSIC / BEST FILM POSTER.
– EUROPEAN CINEMATOGRAPHY AWARDS: 3 AWARDS IN: BEST VFX / BES SCORE MUSIC / BEST POSTER.
– MADRID FILM AWARDS: 1 AWARD IN: BEST EXPERIMENTAL SHORTFILM.
– CANADIAN FILM AWARDS: 2 AWARDS IN: BEST EXPERIMENTAL SHORTFILM / BEST ORIGINAL MUSIC.
– FIVE CONTINENTS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL: 8 AWARDS IN : BEST MUSICAL SHORTFILM / BEST VFX / BEST MAKE UP / BEST COSTUME DESIGN / BEST ART DIRECTION / BEST ORIGINAL SONG / BEST PRODUCTION SHORTFILM / AUDIENCE AWARD.
– FIVE CONTINENTS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL: 4 SPECIAL MENTIONS : BEST DIRECTOR / BEST LIGHTING / BEST ACTOR / BEST SCREENPLAY.
– VENICE FILM AWARDS : 2 AWARDS : BEST ACTION SHORTFILM / BEST ORIGINAL SONG.
– NEW YORK FILM AWARDS: 1 HONORABLE MENTION IN: EXPERIMENTAL SHORTFILM.
– SCORPIUS FEST: 1 AWARD IN: BEST SHORTFILM.
– SOUTH FILM AND ARTS AWARDS: 3 AWARDS IN: BEST MUSICAL SHORTFILM / BEST VFX / BEST ORIGINAL SCORE MUSIC.
– SOUTH FILM AND ARTS AWARDS: 3 HONORABLE MENTION IN: BEST DIRECTOR/ BEST LEAD ACTOR / BEST PRODUCTION.

Black Sun’s latest EP “Silent Enemy” is a concept release of seven tracks, three of them being special music scores (intro, interlude, outro).

The EP was produced by Nino Laurenne (Emma Winner – Finnish Grammy, Hevisaurus, Amorphis, The Rasmus) and featured guest singers and musicians on all the tracks that included Tony Kakko (Sonata Arctica), Lordi, Noora Louhimo (Battle Beast), Pasi Rantanen (Thunderstone), Elias Viljanen (Sonata Arctica ), Netta Laurenne (Smackbound), Jukka Pelkonen (Omnium Gatherum), Asim Searah (Wintersun/Damnation Plan), Topias Kupiainen (Arion), Henning Basse (Firewind), Petri Lindroos (Ensiferum / Norther) and JF Aguirre (JF Aguirre Project).

EP order (CD, Blu-Ray) – https://bit.ly/blacksun_cdvd
Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3d9ZLj8
Apple Music – https://apple.co/2NrsANm

Track Listing:
1. Moebius
2. Resist ft. Netta Laurenne
3. Terror Zone ft. Henning Basse
4. Dark Mirror ft. Petri Lindroos and JF Aguirre Project
5. No Return
6. Still Alive ft. Tony Kakko, Lordi, Netta Laurenne, Noora Louhimo, Asim Searah, Jukka Pelkonen, Pasi Rantanen, Elias Viljanen
7. Finale ft. Topias Kupiainen

Band members:
Christopher Gruenberg (Guitar)
Santiago Salem (Bass)
Nicolás Estrada (Drums)

For more info:
Rockshots.eu
Blacksun.com.ec
Facebook.com/blacksunec
Instagram.com/blacksunec

– 30 –

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

0 EPK – Split Image – Torrent of Illusion (2022)

June 1, 2022
by Asher
· EPKs · Split Image

EPK – Split Image – Torrent of Illusion (2022)

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

For fans of Power Trip, Enforced, Dead Heat, Drain, Mindforce

Album Title: Torrent of Illusion
Release Date: June 1, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: DistroKid

Facebook.com/SplitImageCA – Instagram.com/splitimageca – YouTube – Twitter.com/splitimageca

Splitimage.bandcamp.com – Spotify

L to R – Christian “Chris” Sia – Drums, Jared Mooney – Lead Guitar, Joshua “Josh” Escobar – Vocals, Nadesha Mariudottir – Bass, Joey Sia – Rhythm Guitar
Photo Credit – Sam Stoutenburg

Murrieta, CA’s Split Image is releasing their debut album “Torrent of Illusion” right away and supporting it later this summer with a tour with their friends in Psycho Mantis. A gritty and powerful crossover experience, the band expects an enthusiastic reception from their fans due to its intensity, and also its relatability. The album packs a punch, it deals with intense lyrical themes surrounding mental health and rounds it out with aggressive hard-hitting instrumentals. The band comments:

Belted out with passion, Split Image’s lyrics stem from the various experiences they’ve endured like the loss of a loved one, grief, and perspectives they’ve had or envisioned as well as spirituality. They combine this with a unique sound that boasts familiarity through thrashy riffs, progressive, technical elements, and a solid nod to old-school hardcore.

Split Image will be cruising around the South West states in August and September and those who take in one of their live gigs will be met with a cosmic force – one which allows the crowd to reciprocate the energy radiating from the stage. In other words, nothing but pure energy and tight rhythm, a solid but minimalist performance.

With a dash of many genres, Split Image will be of interest to those who like thrash, punk, crust, and hardcore. Fans of Power Trip, Enforced, and Dead Heat should take note.

“Torrent of Illusion” is being released on June 1, 2022.

Album Band Line Up:
Joshua “Josh” Escobar – Vocals
James Munroe – Lead Guitar (Left)
Joey Sia – Rhythm Guitar (Right)
Nicolas MacDuffee – Bass
Christian “Chris” Sia – Drums

Live Band Line Up:
Joshua “Josh” Escobar – Vocals
Jared Mooney – Lead Guitar
Joey Sia – Rhythm Guitar
Nadesha Mariudottir – Bass
Christian “Chris” Sia – Drums

Psycho Image Tour 2022 – Spilt Image, Psycho Mantis
Aug 26 – Murrieta, CA – The Barn
Aug 27 – Canoga Park, CA- Scotland Yard
Aug 28 – Fresno, CA – TBA
Aug 29 – Sacramento, CA – The Colony
Aug 30 – Anderson, CA – Demented Designs
Sept 1 – Portland, OR – No Fun Bar
Sept 2 – Seattle, WA – Lucky Liquor
Sept 3 – Chehalis, WA – McFilers
Sept 6 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Bee Hive
Sept 7 – Las Vegas, NV – The Truth Spot
Sept 9 – Phoenix, AZ – The Blooze Bar
Sept 10 – Hemet, CA – House Will

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Album Title: Torrent of Illusion
Release Date: June 1, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: DistroKid

Track Listing:
1. Socialized Crucifixion – (2:34)
2. Justified Suicide – (3:18)
3. Room With A View – (4:19)
4. Blank Shot – (4:03)
5. Facades – (2:35)
6. Mirrorstains – (4:13)
Album Length (21 Minutes)

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Christian Sia, Joey Sia, Joshua Escobar, James Munroe, Nicolas MacDuffee
• All songs written by: Christian Sia, Joey Sia, Joshua Escobar, James Munroe
• Produced by: Christian Sia and James Munroe
• Mixed by: James Munroe
• Mastered by: James Munroe
• Album Artwork by: Andrei Bouzikov

DISCOGRAPHY:
2019 – Sulfur Pits (Single)
2020 – Facades (Single)

Shared Stage with:
Psycho Mantis, Corpus, Braineater, Iggy & the Rough Riders, Philosopher

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

The album as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY) explained by the band:

“Lyrically it is a taste of what we as a band, and also personally, have gone through or acquired perspective. It goes from dark to somber towards the end. The music resonates with those who have experienced it and also attracts those who haven’t.” – Josh

“The music compliments the lyrics in a unique way because most of our songs are somewhat progressive. Now when it comes to the matter of the mind our minds are always going 100+ miles per hour whether we acknowledge it or not. The progressive-est music goes hand in hand with our lyrics that deal with mental and personal conflict. It’s as if there is always something else to think about so the music and lyrics capture exactly that!” – Chris

Track by track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY) explained by the band:

“The first song ‘Socialized Crucifixion’ off of Torrent of Illusion deals with becoming alienated and chastised due to biased opinions spread onto others by one individual. As if once someone paints you as a bad individual automatically everyone else follows without question. The point of this song is to urge individuals to really question a situation and take information with a grain of salt especially when it comes to defamation of character. There is always a lot more to what meets the eye and there are two sides of a coin. Musically, this song is fast, simple, straightforward, and ends with a heavy breakdown that really captures the emotion of being a victim of this type of scenario.” – Chris

“Suicide awareness is what the second track ‘Justified Suicide’ is all about. The intro brings a sense of dread with its slow heavy beats and long sustaining riffs. We have had a few friends of ours who had sadly taken their own lives due to being overwhelmed by life in general. I and a few of us have also thought about committing suicide a handful of times whether it was caused by a call of the void or being tempted to cut the high stress by pulling the trigger. Anyone who feels this way needs to remember that you are not alone. There are people who love you and the future is a lot brighter than it portrays itself to be. Every negative experience is only temporary, however, the wisdom you obtain from it is infinite. You gotta keep that PMA at all costs!” – Chris

“The third song ‘Room With A View’ portrays an individual who was unjustly punished through a flawed system of justice. We believe anyone can relate to this whether it be through the literal U.S. justice system or something as simple as being isolated without choice whether it be through the actions of someone else or the individual themself. When it comes to the matter of the mind it could also be considered a prison. The song starts out slow with its dark guitar tones and is greeted with the entirety of the band in an aggressive execution throughout the whole composition.” – Chris

“‘Blank Shot,’ the fourth song off of Torrent of Illusion, is an allegory to choices in life and indecisiveness whether choices are made for the individual themself or deciding these options on their own. When there is pressure to succeed one could simply quit or tread on forward and never give up despite the difficulties/hardship that follows. The lyrics urge individuals to look into themself and their heart to truly discover what resonates with them and choose these decisions based upon what benefits the individual themself as opposed to shooting these ‘blank shots’ that lead to nowhere but square one. Musically, the progressive nature of this song and non-repetition of verses/choruses is our way of describing how much of a labyrinth the human mind can often be especially in a state of indecisiveness.” – Chris

“There is a disorder that is called ‘Alice in Wonderland syndrome’ and it is more of a common occurrence within children than it is a rare occasion with adults. ‘Facades,’ the fifth song of this album, describes this disorder of misinterpreting sight, touch, and even sense of time being simply incorrect. I personally have had these episodes throughout my life, mostly as an adolescent, but I have experienced this syndrome a couple of times as an adult. There is a small percentage of individuals who are diagnosed with ‘Alice in Wonderland syndrome’ and have to live with it every second of their life. These people are a good example of what it takes to have such mental fortitude to combat disorders such as this. ‘Facades’ is more of our fast ‘crossover’ song that bridges the first and the second half of the song with a walky bassline and is eventually met with tying the knot of a breakdown whilst ending the composition with the initial riff of the entire song.” – Chris

“Self-hatred, whether it be caused through disorders such as body dysmorphia, depression, borderline personality disorder, survivor guilt, defeatist attitude (the list goes on) or even if it’s a temporary feeling is what the sixth and final track of Torrent of Illusion embodies. The name ‘Mirrorstains’ comes from evoking the inner consciousness by looking at a mirror because this reflection of oneself is not as clear as it should be. The bass effects in the introduction of the song make you feel as if you are in a bathroom looking at this mirror that is stained. After this introduction comes a ‘doomy’ part to tie up the first section of the song and then comes the heavy and fast riffs. The music merely portrays the rage of self-loathing behavior in a unique way. You are not as alone as you feel. There are people who have gone through the same experiences and many of us who care.” – Chris

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

STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. We had a difficult time naming the band for quite a while. Joey, Josh, and I had come up with hundreds of names, but none of them were to no avail. This went on for a few months and funny enough one day when I and Joey were on the way home from work the song Split Image from the legendary band Excel played on my playlist. Joey just said, “Why don’t we just name the band Split Image?” I took off my sunglasses, looked at Joey, and replied, “Wait, what did you say?!” It was a eureka moment! Everyone agreed on the name and then Split Image became a thing then literally everyone started hilariously saying, “Split Image… it’s a thing!”It was an inside joke for quite some time. – Chris

2. The songs on Torrent of Illusion were actually written a few years ago during the time I and Joey were in a band called Devastation (aka D.V.T.). These songs were so different from the typical style/structure of the music we played in D.V.T. There was a gradual shift from Hardcore Punk to Metal throughout the years in D.V.T. that the music became so different to the point in where these songs sounded like they could be played by a completely different band. So it feels like these specific songs were meant to be played in Split Image and everything fell into place. – Chris

3. There are three J’s and three Tauruses in the band. The three J’s are Josh, Jared, and Joey. The Tauruses are Josh, Nadesha, and Chris. It seems that a lot of things always work in 3’s! – Joey

4. We all have musical roots reaching back to our parents and grandparents. – Joey

5. Split Image’s early incarnation was actually in 2013 when I used to be a guest vocalist for one song out of D.V.T.’s setlist. – Josh

0 Extreme Metal Music – Germany’s One Man Symphonic Dark Metal DAIDALOS Releases Debut Single “Icewind” Off Album “The Expedition” Out July 2022

May 31, 2022
by Asher
· Daidalos · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 31, 2022

Extreme Metal Music – Germany’s One Man Symphonic Dark Metal DAIDALOS Releases Debut Single “Icewind” Off Album “The Expedition” Out July 2022

German one-man symphonic dark metal band Daidalos founded in 2020 by drummer/pianist Tobias Püschner (former drummer of the technical thrash band Revolt) will be releasing the debut album “The Expedition” this coming July 2022 via Extreme Metal Music.

The album was inspired after reading a book on Captain Sir John Franklin’s Lost Expedition, a British voyage of Arctic exploration that departed with 129 men from England in 1845. Both ships, called Erebus & Terror, became icebound and after being trapped and suffering in eternal coldness for over a year, the remaining sailors decided to abandon their ships. Trying to survive, they set out for the Canadian mainland, but disappeared.

“The Expedition” is a musical journey through the Arctic Ice, on board with Sir John Franklin’s crew. The different moods the sailors had to experience at that time probably went from heroic and enthusiastic to absolute hopelessness and daily mortal fear. I composed these atmospheres musically and told them as a concept album / musical story.” says Püschner

“The Expedition” contains nine songs and has a total playtime of 47 minutes plus a bonus track.

In preview to the record’s release, Daidalos is sharing its visualizer for the opening track and first single “Icewind”. It was the first song Püschner wrote for the album. It is powerful and energetic, but also represents the album’s concept story and the crew’s first contact with the adverse conditions of the journey.

“In the past, it was said as a nautical superstition that a woman on board brings bad luck. The grand finale of the song is therefore sung by a woman. I asked Noga Rotem to do this because she also conducts and composes orchestras and has a wonderful, powerful but also vulnerable voice. She has realized the theme and her text perfectly.” adds Püschner.

Listen to “Icewind” https://youtu.be/9GuwOLLAIys

Digital single – https://bfan.link/icewind

Daidalos’ concept can be described as a full orchestral and dark emotional cinematic journey combined with aggressive vocals and harsh guitars. Most of the songs recorded on the upcoming full-length contain clean choir vocals and fast-paced drumming along with each song being written exclusively on the piano first. The idea behind this way of songwriting is to first finish each track’s own atmosphere with orchestral music and then use those emotions to create the harder parts.

For the recording of “The Expedition”, Püschner recruited guest musicians and friends Martin Simon (Kambrium) (bass/backing vocals), Fabio Rossi (Tryglav) (lead guitar), Francesco Petrelli (guitar), Noga Rotem (choir vocals) who will also support Daidalos on live shows.

“The Expedition” is due out on July 29th, 2022, and is recommended for fans of Dimmu Borgir, Wintersun, and Fleshgod Apocalypse.

Album pre-order – https://bit.ly/Daidalos_CD

Track Listing:
1. The Expedition – 7:09
2. Icewind – 5:09
3. Sail Into The Stars – 5:57
4. Stormwind – 5:32
5. Married to The Sea – 5:21
6. The Empress – 5:00
7. Poem in the Snow – 8:05
8. Northlight – 5:32
9. Bonus Track – My Melancholy – 5:34

Album Credits:
– All Songs & Orchestrations written & produced by Tobias Püschner
– Vocals, Piano & Drums recorded by Tobias Püschner @ Crooked Mountain Studio
– Lyrics written by Marie Erikson
– Song 7 lyrics based on the poem “Once by the Pacific” by Robert Frost

For more info:
www.extremetalmusic.com
www.facebook.com/daidalosband

About:
DAIDALOS was founded in 2020 as a one-man band by Tobias Püschner.

The band´s idea is to combine a classical orchestra with fast and aggressive elements, to create atmospheric breakdowns of different mental states.

This happens along epic historic events and stories, to develop a heroic and often hopeless sad feeling.

After sending some demos of the debut album “The Expedition”, Daidalos got directly signed by the label Rockshots / Extreme Metal Music in 2022.

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0 EPK – Sobernot – Smoke Masters (Gimme My Money Back) (single) (2022)

May 30, 2022
by Asher
· EPKs · Sobernot

EPK – Sobernot – Smoke Masters (Gimme My Money Back) (single) (2022)

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

“The single ‘Smoke Masters (Gimme My Money Back)’ represents a big portion of what can be expected to be listened to in Destroy. However, all songs have their own soul and sound. Songs are powerful, groovy, brutal, melodic, with great choruses and melodic sections, and also outstanding instrumental performances by the whole party, with tons of riffs and rhythms to capture your neck and make you bang your head almost by instinct. Even the order of the tracklist has a purpose. You can play in that exact order in a live show and it would work perfectly. Time flies when you listen to it and for sure you’ll want to give it a second try right after the first one.” – Sobernot

Single Title: Smoke Masters (Gimme My Money Back) off the album Destroy – out July 7th, 2022)
Single Release Date: June 9, 2022
Label: Self-Release

For fans of Pantera, Testament, Metallica, Megadeth, System Of A Down

Facebook.com/sobernot – Twitter.com/sobernot_band – YouTube.com/c/SobernotBand – Instagram.com/sobernotband

Sobernot.bandcamp.com – Apple Music – Spotify

“As a conclusion, we are in front of a young band that went from a ‘promising band’ to a ‘consecrated band’ in the Chilean scene, daring with a style that is not much exploited in the national and South American level.” – Gabriel Jaque, Rock n Vox

“They reflect in all their lines a full-time winning team, strong and well endowed, somehow everyone participates in this ‘silent conspiracy’. A team that, in soccer jargon, “wins, likes and scores.” – Bastián Gómez, Resistance

“Sobernot presents their first full-length album that has an intense and powerful Groove Metal.” – John Collyer, Discordancia

“The 30-minute presentation had a sound at the level, and strong attitudes from each musician, while they kept promoting “Silent Conspiracy” (2018), their first full-length album.” – Luciano González, Rockaxis

“A delight -and a must- for every lover of the genre at a national level, which is impossible to resist. There is no way to escape from the frenzy projected by these four subjects who do not know sobriety when the watchword is to leave the soul.” – Claudio Miranda, Resistance (Live show review).

[Download Single Artwork | Download Single Lyrics]

Single Title: Smoke Masters (Gimme My Money Back) off the album Destroy – out July 7th, 2022)
Single Release Date: June 9, 2022
Label: Self-Release

Single Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Sobernot
• All songs written by: Pablo La’Ronde & Sobernot
• Produced by: Pablo La’Ronde, Franco Gabelo & Sobernot
• Mixed by: Franco Gabelo (Chile)
• Mastered by: Tony Lindgren (Sweden)
• Album Artwork by: Sandeev Rehal (UK)

Recording and Live Band Line Up:
César “Vaigor” Vigouroux – Vocals
Pablo “Chespi” La’ronde – Guitar and Vocals
Joaquín “Yakls” Quezada – Bass
Piero “Pyro” Ramírez – Drums

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

STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. When we started to record invitations to our shows, things escalated quickly and we became a sort of Monty Python of short/comic sketches. And when our first drummer decided to leave the band we did a video with him where the new drummer was born like a xenomorph (Alien franchise) leaving his rotten corpse behind and joining the band immediately. You can see the full video on our here: https://www.facebook.com/Sobernot/videos/570385980157040/

2. The concept of “Destroy” comes from our ritual before a show when we get together and scream “Destroy!” to each other in order to get in the mood to give our best every show/recording/video.

3. Similar to Destroy, our first EP name “Aurt” was born in a very similar way, it’s like a phoneme we use to express when something’s cool and fun. And fans got into this very much! Every time we play live you can hear people in the crowd shouting out loud “Auuuurt!!”. We never thought it was going to go that far hahaha. Even when a fan found any of us in the streets or anywhere they say “Auuurt!” instead of “hello”, it’s pretty crazy hahaha.

4. When we play live, we always go down to the crowd and get into the mosh and riff alongside the people, things get crazy and the music won’t be perfect during that madness but is one of the top moments of our live act.

Sobernot is an independent groove metal band born in Santiago, Chile. By mixing classic metal with groove, Latin rhythms, and progressive rock elements, they stand out in their style through powerful and innovative riffs with a balanced use of guttural and clean voices from one of a kind. This is not only reflected in the studio, but they’ve also made their live shows and performances one of the most solid ones on the local scene. Between their most important appearances, they highlight the opening shows for Havok (June 2018), and Crisix (Dec 2018). Also, sharing the stage with three of the most iconic exponents of the old-school thrash metal genre: At War, Hirax, and Exodus in September 2019. Sobernot is about to release their second studio LP, called “Destroy” on July 7th, 2022, which continues the path built by the first album “Silent Conspiracy” (2018), keeping the riffs unique identity, powerful lyrics, and exceptional choruses, but this time powered by the co-production of Franco Gabelo (CL) and mastered at Fascination Street Studios (SWE) by Tony Lindgren (Sepultura, Opeth, Kreator).

“Our album ‘Destroy’ will grab you and won’t leave you ‘til you drop, we tried to have many different rhythms and vibes to pump you in every way, our thrasher side; we include a very powerful ballad; some songs have some nü metal and aggro influences. It’s pretty much an homage to our influences but with our touch of groove and fun. Also, every song is a sing-along, we love to make songs that our audience can yell in our shows alongside us. We try to have a spicy wit in our way to say things so you can have a good time reading the lyrics as well.” – Sobernot

Discography:
2022 – Destroy – LP
2022 – Smoke Masters (Gimme My Money Back) (single)
2022 – Servants of the Yellow King (single)
2021 – Live Pandemic
2019 – Live at Blondie
2018 – Silent Conspiracy – LP
2015 – Aurt – EP

Share Stage with:
Crisix (Spain), Havok (US), Exodus (US), Hirax (US), At-War (US)

Tours and Festivals:
2020 – Armagerock 2020 – Santiago
2019 – Thrash Old True Fest (w/ Exodus, Hirax & At War) – Santiago
2019 – Lanzamiento de Target LP “Deep Water Flames” – Santiago
2018 – Crisix en Chile – Santiago
2018 – Solidarity Fest – Santiago
2018 – Metal Night – Talca
2018 – Havok en Chile – Santiago
2018 – Bestias del Metal – Valparaíso
2017 – Lanzamiento de Catoni LP “7: Como Hacer Rock y No Morir en el ntento” – Santiago
2017 – Festival Xtremo Verde – Curico

0 Saudi Melo-Death IMMORTAL PAIN Posts New Music Video For “Unhealed”

May 28, 2022
by Asher
· Immortal Pain · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 28, 2022

Saudi Melo-Death IMMORTAL PAIN Posts New Music Video For “Unhealed”

Earlier this month, Saudi melodic death metallers Immortal Pain shared their first taste of new music with the single “Unhealed” to follow their 2021 EP “Origin Demoes” that featured recordings from 2007.

Today, the band is supporting the single by unleashing their new music video for it, which can be viewed at https://youtu.be/f7kfJCaDCz8

Digital – https://linktr.ee/immortalpainofficial

“A straightforward track with lots of deep feelings, motivation, and amazing melodies.” adds the band.

Formed in Saudi Arabia, Immortal Pain have been together since 2005, ripping up local stages with their take on melodic death metal. It has been a long time since they released music, but they are breaking their silence with a stand-alone single “Unhealed” via label Wall of Sound Dark Mode. The band firmly believes listeners will love this single as it will deliver an all-new original track that resembles the classic Immortal Pain vibes and energy with a modernized sound.

Over the years, the sound of Immortal Pain has definitely developed, as they have matured musically. They have been playing together for over a decade, and the chemistry is apparent. They continue to experiment with different sounds and techniques, but they don’t stray too far from the classic sound and style that they have become known for.

Immortal Pain’s live shows are packed with energetic, exciting fun as they consider each gig to be a celebration with their fans in a mutual love for music. They always give a 110% on the music and fan experience, as it is what they deserve. Along with playing live gigs this year, Immortal Pain will also be working on a number of singles, so fans can expect a lot more noise from the group.

Immortal Pain is powerful and melodic, adding an edge to typical melodic death metal. They incorporate personal themes to drive home the passion and emotion even more. They are recommended for fans of Iron Maiden, Metallica, and Arch Enemy.

For more info:
Instagram.com/immortal_pain_official
Facebook.com/ImmortalPainOfficial

About:
Keeping the metal scene alive, Immortal Pain is a Saudi Arabian Melodic Death Metal band from Jeddah. The band was formed back in 2005 by Emad Ashor (Vocalist/Rhythm Guitarist), Rasheed (Lead Guitarist) and was later joined by Moaiyd Alshammari (Drummer) and Anan Alsabban (Bassist).

Their music is a mix between Thrash Metal and Melodic Death Metal and was heavily influenced by bands such as Iron Maiden, Arch Enemy, Kalmah, Metallica, and many other iconic groups.

The band was heavily active during the prime years of metal music in the Kingdom and continues to perform to their fans to this day. Immortal Pain released a number of demos over the years and continues to create new music and is releasing their first official single “Unhealed” in May 2022 with additional releases planned for the following months.
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0 Rockshots Records – ANTHEA Shares New Video For Title Track From Sophomore Album “Tales Untold” Out August 2022

May 27, 2022
by Asher
· Anthea (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 27, 2022

Rockshots Records – ANTHEA Shares New Video For Title Track From Sophomore Album “Tales Untold” Out August 2022

Los Angeles symphonic prog metallers ANTHEA announces their return in 2022 with their sophomore album “Tales Untold” to be released once again via Rockshots Records this coming August to follow their 2020 debut “Illusion”.

For the new album, Anthea has taken the reigns for a more DIY approach with vocalist Diego Valadez taking over also as the full-length’s producer along with bassist Eric “EJ” Guerrero in charge of music videos and photography.

“We released our debut album in 2020, but were, unfortunately, like everyone else, unable to tour or play live gigs. However, this gave us a lot of extra time to really craft this follow-up album into something special. Tales Untold was written and recorded throughout 2021 and I am so proud of the end result.” adds Valadez.

Fans of Anthea‘s first album “Illusion” will enjoy this one even more. The difference with this next record is that Anthea has a more mature sound and has carefully thought out the ebb and flow throughout it. Their end goal is to give a very dynamic and cinematic album in which the listener feels as though they’ve gone through a grand musical journey once they’ve reached the end.

“We also wanted to create a sense of escapism while keeping one fit in the real world lyrically.”

Today in preview of the album, the band is sharing with fans a new music video for its title track. The opening song is about how art inspires new generations of art forms whether it be novels, music, movies, poetry, etc.

“I just find the interconnectivity of it all fascinating. This song itself wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for the music that we were influenced by, and their music wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for what they were listening to, and so on and so on.“ says Valadez.

Watch and listen to “Tales Untold” at https://youtu.be/eWqBgT0CgFw

Digital – https://bfan.link/tales-untold

Anthea is a melodic, symphonic metal band from Los Angeles, CA. With influences from bands like Nightwish, Kamelot, and Wintersun, as well as scores from composers such as Hans Zimmer, John Williams, and Danny Elfman, the band create a unique theatrical sound blending progressive, power, and thrash metal elements, with a grand, cinematic edge.

“Tales Untold” is due out on August 26, 2022.

Album pre-order

CD – https://bit.ly/TalesUntoldCD

Vinyl – https://bit.ly/TalesUntoldVINYL

Track Listing:
1. Tales Untold – 4:09
2. Ascendence – 3:21
3. Song for Winter – 4:03
4. The Deceiver – 5:11
5. Sapiens – 5:29
6. Memoriam – 4:13
7. Looking Glass – 4:15
8. Empyrean – 4:02
9. Sunder Heart – 4:53
10. In Time – 5:33
Album Length: 45:15

Anthea is:
Diego Valadez – Vocals/Keys
Juan Pina – Guitar/Screams
Marcos Mejia – Guitar
Eric Guerrero – Bass
Peter Vasquez – Drums

Album Credits:
All music and lyrics by Diego Valadez except on “Looking Glass” and “Empyrean” music by Marco Mejia, Lyrics and Orchestration by Diego Valadez. Music and Lyrics for the cover song “In Time” originally written and performed by Robbi Rob.
Produced By Diego Valadez
Mixed/Mastered By Jesse Billson
Layout & Design By Dávid Busai (Mordiggian Art)
Video & Photography By Eric “EJ” Guerrero (E.ject Media)

More info:
Rockshots.eu
Antheametal.com
Facebook.com/antheametal
Instagram.com/antheametal

About: Anthea is a melodic, symphonic metal band from Los Angeles, CA. With influences from bands like Nightwish, Kamelot, and Wintersun, as well as scores from composers such as Hans Zimmer, John Williams, and Danny Elfman, the band create a unique theatrical sound blending progressive, power, and thrash metal elements, with a grand, cinematic edge.

The band released some demo songs as singles which quickly began gaining attention in the local metal scene. Anthea began playing more live shows around Los Angeles, opening for various bands including Smile Empty Soul, Helion Prime, September Mourning, and many more.

In late 2019, Anthea announced that they would be entering the studio to re-record their singles as well as some new material for an official EP that would be titled “Illusion.” It wasn’t long before the group was contacted by Rockshots Records. The label suggested that instead of releasing an EP, the band should consider recording a full-length debut album. If they did so, Rockshots would release the record under their label. Anthea agreed and began working on more material.

Illusion, the debut album from Anthea was released on October 23rd, 2020 under Rockshots Records. The album has received many positive reviews from several magazines, blogs, and podcasts. The three singles “Moirai”, “Illusion”, and “Reach”, have all gone on to receive international play on various rock and metal radio stations.

The band returns in 2022 with their second album “Tales Untold” due out in August 2022.

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“A sort of dramatic theatrical experience that of this “Illusion”, which ranks among the best releases of the gothic-epic panorama of 2020.” (8/10) Tutto Rock Magazine (Illusion review – 2020)

“A solid surprise from the USA here.” (5/6) – Scream Magazine (Illusion review – 2020)

“The song writing on this album is commendable and of the highest calibre. If you are looking out for a melodic sound with plenty of surprises and a true rollercoaster experience, you’ve hit the jackpot with this one. Go for it!” (9.5/10) – The Metal Resource (Illusion review – 2020)

“The music and the vocals work together in perfect harmony, whether its through gentler moments or full unashamed bombastic power. Lyrically, Anthea offer a truly poetic experience, elevating a listener’s wonder and imagination to optimum level.” (5 STARS) – MMH Radio (Illusion review – 2020)

“A long-term, melodic debut album, with excellent musical combinations, there are different tempos that can be heard as Thrash metal briefly, they have a strong combination that goes from Symphonic Metal to Power Metal and vice versa, at the beginning they start very Power Metal and end very Symphonic Metal, that gives variety to the album!” (90/100) – Darkzen Dragon (Illusion review – 2020)

“Overall, a fast paced and very infectious album of heavy hitting symphonic power metal with stunning twists and turns.” (9.5/10) – Metal Gods TV (Illusion review – 2020)

“I believe that Anthea have managed to convince us of the value of their musical ideas with a strong debut and of course with the composite result they present to us in ‘Illusion’.” – Rockway.gr (Illusion review – 2020)

“Congratulations ANTHEA on achieving one of the better albums for 2020!” (9/10 ) – Metal-Temple (Illusion review – 2020)

“The whole piece is just incredible to listen to as you get lost in the composition and what it stands for” – Jace Media (Illusion review – 2020)

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
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