Posts By Asher

0 Prepare For A 260 BPM Descent into Chaos w/ ANCIENT THRONES New Music Video “Melancholia” Off Upcoming Album “Melancholia” Out Sept 2025

August 20, 2025
by Asher
· Ancient Thrones · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 20, 2025

Prepare For A 260 BPM Descent into Chaos w/ ANCIENT THRONES New Music Video “Melancholia” Off Upcoming Album Out Sept 2025

+ Launch Vinyl Pre-Order

Ancient Thrones Current Line Up

Top L-R: Dylan Wallace (Guitar) | Nick Leslie (Guitar)

Bottom L-R: Matt LeBlanc (Bass) | Sean Hickey (Drums & Vocals)

Photo Credit – Matt Leblanc

Set to unleash their sophomore album “Melancholia” on September 19, 2025, to follow their 2020 breakout debut “The Veil”, Halifax, Canada’s progressive death metal titans Ancient Thrones are sharing their second single and title track, accompanied by a new music video.

At 260 beats per minute, Ancient Thrones introduce the protagonist of their concept record, his condition, and how he describes feeling out of place, plunging listeners headfirst into his psyche.

“With unrelenting intensity from the opening second, the title track Melancholia is simply a demonstration of what we set out to do with this album. Not one instrument stands out more than the other on this track, as it storms through a plethora of chaotic riffs, rapid blast beats, and lightning-quick vocals at 260 beats per minute, before reaching a breaking point where we flip the script to welcome change both musically and lyrically. If you like to invite some emotion to go with your extreme metal, then this is the song for you,” adds bassist Matt LeBlanc.

Watch and listen to the music video for “Melancholia” via Slam Worldwide at https://youtu.be/_LvSTJ78kd8

Formed in 2011 and reborn in 2018 with the arrival of guitarist and composer Dylan Wallace, Ancient Thrones carved out a new identity rooted in fast, extreme, progressive, cinematic, and existential soundscapes. With “Melancholia”, the band introduces a 42-minute descent into existential exhaustion, delivering an unapologetic extreme metal concept album that fuses blistering speed, cinematic storytelling, and emotional brutality.

From the chaotic opener “A Moon Fused Key” to the doom-laden closer “Vacant,” the band exposes raw intensity and jagged vulnerability. The narrative follows a colorblind protagonist navigating hallucinogenic visions in search of meaning, an unsettling journey through idealism, dread, and transformation. After five years of creation, Ancient Thrones proudly bring to light this new chapter, inviting listeners to embrace the chaos and feel something truly unnatural.

“For this album, a big focus for us was on the production. We meticulously, painstakingly spent several hours dialing every tone, note, layer, vocal, etc. We were fortunate to have time and a slower world on our side during production. Everything on this album was thought out and brought to life in a fully fleshed-out way. It took us 5 years to make this album, with 1 of those years used just levelling up our musicianship and techniques in order to play the material. We’re faster, more technical, and have a singular focus to make sure this album was beating you down from head to toe,” says Leblanc.

Drawing from the raw ferocity of black metal, the brutal edge of 2000s death metal, and the precision of modern tech death, “Melancholia” is a must-listen for fans of Archspire, The Red Chord, Deafheaven, and The Faceless.

Album pre-order (Vinyl, Digital) (out Sept 19th, 2025) – https://ancientthrones.bandcamp.com

Lyric Video – “A Moon Fused Key” https://youtu.be/IfDBNhlJ0sI

Track Listing:
1. A Moon Fused Key (5:12)
2. Achromatopsia (1:19)
3. Melancholia (6:17)
4. A Turning Point (5:46)
5. A Pellucid Prism (4:26)
6. Sacred Swollen Glass (6:16)
7. Blight (2:18)
8. A Pale Palace (4:55)
9. Vacant (5:31)
Album Length: 42:00

Band Lineup:
Dylan Wallace – Guitar
Nick Leslie – Guitar
Matt LeBlanc – Bass
Sean Hickey – Drums & Vocals

More info: Facebook.com/Ancientthrones | Instagram.com/ancientthrones

-30-

“The music is indeed violent, and immediately so, exploding in a blast of turbulent riffing, heavily undulating bass tones, and furious beats. The guitars wildly writhe and rapidly spear off in crazed angles, kaleidoscopic in effect, and the words spit forth in caustic screams that are equally deranged. Dissonant and dismal tones intrude, along with guttural roars, blast-beat outbursts, and pulverizing blows, and the riffing also seems to swarm in agony, adding further dimensions of darkness to the song’s overarching manifestation of delirium. Backed by a pulse-pounding and highly headbangable groove, the song also introduces yet another dimension, an eerie guitar solo that slowly slithers, brightly swirls, and evolves into an entrancing harmony, very much like a beckoning and seductive presence that manifests within the mayhem.” – No Clean Singing (single – A Moon Fused Key – 2025)

What the press has said about 2020’s “The Veil”:

“A full-throttle attack, the song (The Sight of Oblivion) delivers bludgeoning rhythms, vicious darting and slashing guitar-work, scorching blackened shrieks, and cold-hearted roars. There’s a brazen, borderline-unhinged quality to the barrage, generated by screaming, rapidly whirling leads, magma-like bass notes, and fast-changing, bone-cracking drums. But within the assault there are also fluid, sinuous melodic leads whose mellifluous, reverberating tones give the music a mysterious, mesmerizing, and mournful quality. And near the end one of those leads morphs into a fret-burning dual-guitar extravaganza that really gets the blood rushing.” – No Clean Singing (2020 – The Veil)

“Nearly an hour in length, The Veil earns that run-time with crisply-written compositions and an arsenal of sky-ripping riffs. The acoustic reprieve of “Sentient” and melodic grief of “Permanent” reveal the album’s heavy heart. But the album conjures strength from those pensive moments. Rife with nimble axe-work from Dylan Wallace and Nick Leslie, The Veil never succumbs to the solemnity of its subject. The Veil remains an impactful listen down to its final dying note.” – Decibel Magazine (2020 – The Veil)

“Trailer Park Boys and Hobo With a Shotgun aren’t the only pieces of media that have emerged from Nova Scotia that you should get excited over.” – MetalSucks

“From the massive tremolo sections and bludgeoning riffs to the surprisingly melodic harmonies between guitarists Dylan Wallace and Nick Leslie, Ancient Thrones have definitely honed in on something special with this track.” – GearGods

“From earth crushing riffs and face-melting guitar solos to the overarching theme of grief and devastation that the record encompasses, this single really ramps up the intensity” – Bravewords

“Canadian band Ancient Thrones perform a combination of black, death and thrash metal with some progressive tendencies on The Veil. They have similarities to Skeletonwitch, but have an even more dynamic sound. The songs are both aggressive and intelligent in equal measure and run through a variety of different emotional tangents. There is a vile and harsh aspect to the band, but there is also a forward thinking one. It all results in a creative and dynamic listen.” – Heavy Music Headquarters (2020 – The Veil)

“The prize for most ambitious album of 2020 already has the name of Ancient Thrones carved in marble. Who among you fancies a 56-minute blackened death metal saga with an epic meditation on one man’s descent into the afterlife? No band thought it conceivable to write the metal version of Ingmar Bergman’s The Seventh Seal, but this Nova Scotia quartet are not just any band. This is a remarkable journey for the contemplative mind.” – Scream Blast Repeat (2020 – The Veil)

“The Sight of Oblivion and The Millionth Grave are steeped in ferociousness and savagery as only a band well versed in blackened death metal are capable of producing.8.5/10” – Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life (2020 – The Veil)

“With this new incarnation, Ancient Thrones has moved into strict Black/Death territory, producing an album filled with pummeling riffs, intricate song structures, and technical musicianship that’s leavened by atmospheric segments and epic, sometimes audacious melodies that border on Cascadian. The production matches this style perfectly, being heavy and abrasive while allowing the songs enough room to stretch out… fans of more epic and melodic Black/Death will want to give The Veil a listen. 4/5” – The Metal Crypt (2020 – The Veil)

“It is fast, thrashing extreme metal with shrieked/growled vocals, and a headbanging attitude. They have elements of thrash, black and death but their method of delivery won’t confuse anyone. It is metal to make the fans move. It is pretty thrashy, pretty brutal but also melodic, and the guitar work has plenty to offer both in the riffs and the melodies.” – Metal Bulletin (2020 – The Veil)

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

0 A Metal Odyssey of Self and Survival – NIGHT’S EDGE Unveils New Video “Shapes in Grey Space II : Soaring” Ahead of New Album Out Aug 21st

August 20, 2025
by Asher
· Music News · Night's Edge

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 20, 2025

A Metal Odyssey of Self and Survival – NIGHT’S EDGE Unveils New Video “Shapes in Grey Space II: Soaring” Ahead of New Album “The World That Never Was” Out Aug 21st

With their fourth full-length album, “The World That Never Was,” set to drop on August 21st, 2025, Baltimore-based trio NIGHT’S EDGE is unveiling one last visual offering ahead of release day. In collaboration with Ghost Cult Magazine, the band premieres the music video for “Shapes in Grey Space II: Soaring”, the second installment in a three-part suite that closes the album. The two-and-a-half-minute ballad of symphonic alternative metal track unfolds a Twilight Zone-inspired narrative, exploring themes of isolation and the transformative journey of self-discovery it can spark.

“Soaring is a hardcore banger in ¾, as fancy as it is intense. The sudden pauses and shifts in direction of the music catch you off guard, while the vocals make you feel like you are ascending into the chorus, with mixed feelings of freedom while remaining tethered to reality. The words reflect our inner turmoil of free will versus the outside forces that control us. When writing Soaring, Damian constantly referred to the movie “Chronicle,” a found-footage thriller about teenagers who get superpowers. Not sure how that connects, that is for you to figure out!” adds Brian Haran – Vocals, Bass, Keys, Programming.

Watch and listen to “Shapes in Grey Space II: Soaring” via Ghost Cult Magazine HERE.

Since forming in 2018, Night’s Edge has undergone several lineup shifts and sonic evolutions, making notable strides since their 2019 debut. Rooted in the Alternative Metal realm yet defying easy classification, their sound blends gothic metal, progressive rock, and nu-metal influences into a heady mix of heaviness and pop sensibility, wrapped in layers of synths and theatrical flair. Their upcoming album, “The World That Never Was,” delves into themes of lost identity and the voids we fall into—obsession, rage, and uncertainty. In its closing arc, the album tells a parable: the protagonist wakes in a world where humanity has vanished and is forced to confront their reflection in the silence… or so it appears.

“We are immensely proud of this album. The World That Never Was has the strongest songwriting that Night’s Edge has ever brought forward, and these powerful songs elevate the three of us as musicians and as a band. It has presented challenges to all of us, as Performers and as writers, and has resulted in a genuine expression of music that is uniquely us. The album flows dramatically from piece to piece, with each song offering something different and contributing a different part from which the whole is built. No two songs sound the same, but every second of the album is unmistakably Night’s Edge. The recording and production process challenged all of us but allowed us to become even more intimate with each song. The lyrical themes that wrap through the album have become hooks in each of our brains, and we feel like each of us left a part of ourselves in this record. The World That Never Was is dense but digestible, complex but immediate, grim but beautiful. It is an album of contrasts, an album of ambition, and Night’s Edge’s most definitive musical statement,” says Haran

“The World That Never Was” follows releases Strangers – LP (2023), Night’s Edge – EP (2022), The Darkest Side of Dreams – LP (2020), and Shades of Dusk – LP (2019) and is recommended for fans of Coheed and Cambria, Avantasia, System of a Down, HIM, and Deftones.

Album pre-order (out Aug 21st) – https://nightsedge.bandcamp.com

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/5YEhprmAqIyaGmzH1qQInZ

Night Drive Visualizer – Love Fiction – https://youtu.be/MoRXlrnX6aQ

Music Video – If You Loved Me – https://youtu.be/0Fj6gIMd6dA

YouTube Stream – Someone To Stay – https://youtu.be/fg-P90AQvrA

Lyric Video – Smite – https://youtu.be/pMg-S0fn-Nk

Upcoming Show Dates:
Aug 23 – Roachfest – Hollywood, MD
Sept 12 – Zen West – Baltimore, MD – ALBUM RELEASE PARTY
Sept 20 – Asbury Park Brewery – Asbury Park, NJ
Oct 10 – The Depot – Baltimore, MD

Track Listing:
1. Someone To Stay (4:11)
2. If You Loved Me (3:51)
3. Man of Many Faces (4:23)
4. Love Fiction (4:14)
5. Wish You Wouldn’t (4:09)
6. Overdue For Destruction (2:50)
7. Smite (3:46)
8. Ataecina (5:08)
9. Shapes In Grey Space I: Reaching (7:43)
10. Shapes In Grey Space II: Soaring (2:41)
11. Shapes In Grey Space III: Separating (5:23)
Total Length: 48:32

Recording and Live Line Up:
Brian Haran – Vocals, Bass, Keys, Programming
Damian Remmell – Guitars
Dan Hunt – Drums

More info: Nightsedgeband.com | Facebook.com/nightsedgeband | Instagram.com/nights_edge_band

-30-

““Smite” offers a taste of the band’s ever-evolving sound, merging gothic, progressive, and nu metal influences.” – Metal Insider

“You’re going for a ride today with the premiere of the music video for “Love Fiction,” the latest single from Night’s Edge. A cool visual accompaniment, the premise of the video, a sped-up night drive of the city and the freeway, complements the song’s intensity well. The single is from the band’s latest record, The World That Never Was. Featuring eleven new tracks, the album is set to be released on August 21st. “Love Fiction” is an introduction to this era of Night’s Edge, their third full-length since first emerging in 2018. The song is a profound reflection on depression and mental health. It romanticizes depression, likening it to a partner who is always there for someone as if the condition itself has become a security blanket.” – V13

“Night’s Edge is a dynamic three-piece pushing the boundaries of alternative metal with a sound that straddles gothic melodrama, modern heaviness, and synth-drenched theatrics…. a collection of tracks that fuse headbanging weight with danceable grooves, rich atmospherics, and introspective lyricism. With influences ranging from HIM, System of a Down, Deftones, to Coheed and Cambria, Night’s Edge has carved a uniquely immersive and cinematic sound that evokes both the personal and the fantastical.” – Crannk

“The best part was how they fused a heavy sense of emotion in the music. You can hear it, and feel it, and they don’t hold back.” – Metal Temple

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

0 THE FIXER & TEKNOSIS Team Up For The “Ugly Knots Tour” Across Central Canada (QC/ON/MB/SK/AB)

August 20, 2025
by Asher
· Music News · Teknosis · The Fixer

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 20, 2025

THE FIXER & TEKNOSIS Team Up For The “Ugly Knots Tour” Across Central Canada (QC/ON/MB/SK/AB)

L-R: The Fixer Current Line Up | Vic Sin (Guitar) | Null (Drums) | Busuzu (Bass) | Melladonna (Vocals)
Photography by: Chu Shang

Two of Thunder Bay, ON’s rising metal forces, THE FIXER and TEKNOSIS, are teaming up this Fall for an epic tour of mind-melting metal across dates in Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta in October.

Touring across Canada heavily in support of their 2023 debut album “Your Lie’ released on WormHoleDeath Records, this next adventure of show dates will be special ones, as they are taking hometown friends Teknosis on the the road who will be supporting their latest EP 2024’s Return To Civilization”, recorded and mixed by Ryan MacDonald at Lionheart Sound Co and mastered by Topon Das (F*ck The Facts) at Apartment 2.

“Touring is something we all look forward to in The Fixer. The most rewarding part of being in a band is seeing people connect with something you’ve created, and our favourite way to do that is in the live setting. We will be heading out with fresh songs, as well as bringing a couple of songs back into the set that we haven’t played in some time. Similarly, we are excited to be playing some places we haven’t played before and some of the first places we ever played outside of our hometown,” says Vic Sin, Guitar – The Fixer

“We are incredibly pleased with our first EP, ‘Return to Civilization’. These 5 songs are the perfect introduction to the sound of Teknosis. Fans of all genres of metal will enjoy our hybrid of metal genres. We are now beyond thrilled to be bringing these songs and more on tour this October with The Fixer,” adds bassist Travis Doggett – Teknosis.

The Fixer is a genre-defying force in the pop-metal underground. They continue to captivate audiences with their latest full-length album, “Your Lie,” released in 2023. When witnessed live, they channel Addams Family vibes with rapid-fire sets, minimalist yet impactful lighting, and a palpable emotional connection with their audience. Their shows are more than performances; they’re cathartic rituals. Those who have not seen them live should brace themselves for The Fixer‘s theatrical flair and emotionally charged soundscapes. Fans can expect not only the immersive live experience they’ve come to love but also brand-new music unveiled on this next road escapade.

The Fixer’s sonic identity is a fusion of industrial metal, melodic hardcore, and gothic textures. “Your Lie” showcases this blend with haunting ambiences, unexpected rhythmic shifts, and emotionally raw lyrics. From the swagger of “Get Greasy” to the introspective dirge of “Your Truth,” the album is a journey through highs, lows, and everything in between.

“When we started The Fixer, we never imagined how far it would go. With Your Lie, we wanted to dig deeper, building on The Prowl EP while exploring more personal themes. It’s been powerful seeing fans connect with that. Musically, we didn’t want to be boxed in. While we’re rooted in metal, punk, and industrial, we brought in influences from other genres we’ve lived in. Blending those sounds has been one of the most rewarding parts of the process,” adds Vic Sin.

Music Video – The Fixer – Tongue’s Bleeding – https://youtu.be/-MGqIhVc-i8

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/0Ny8HJc6iUvmIKGlY5TxSs

L to R – Andrew Wojciechowski – Vocals | Craig Kainulainen – Guitar | Ian – Drums | Travis Doggett – Bass

Photo Credit – Incompass Photography

Formed out of pure love for metal. Teknosis has quickly evolved into a tight, aggressive unit with a shared vision: to make heavy music that hits hard and leaves no room to breathe. Set to ignite stages across the country this October, Teknosis is bringing their relentless live energy to fans in support of their acclaimed 2024 EP “Return to Civilization”, a five-track barrage of groove-laced hardcore and death metal influences. It’s a compact, violent sonic explosion that lyrically channels frustration and isolation from lockdowns, with themes ranging from societal collapse to personal survival.

With ambient samples bridging each track, Teknosis will be a visceral live experience as they deliver a seamless, high-impact set that’s organic, heavy, and hypnotic.

“We still believe in live amps and drums straight to the cochlea. It’s all about maximum intensity. A sonic experience that’s as brutal as it is addictive,” says bassist Travis Doggett.

Fans can expect new singles starting in Fall 2025, leading up to a full-length album in late 2025 or early 2026. The October tour will feature tracks from “Return to Civilization” alongside unreleased material, giving audiences a taste of what’s to come.

Lyric Video – Teknosis – Shapeshifter – https://youtu.be/dWfqfwHSbQY

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/5Cu2jRvDUKvEZdqJd5QjwJ

Ugly Knots Tour 2025 – The Fixer, Teknosis
Oct 2 – La Sarre, QC – La Brute du Coin *
Oct 3 – Montreal, QC – Piranha Bar *
Oct 4 – Espanola, ON – Shorty’s *
Oct 9 – Fort Frances, ON – Pink Parasol Tea Room
Oct 10 – Brandon, MB – The 40
Oct 11 – Prince Albert, SK – Studio Q
Oct 12 – Edmonton, AB – The Rendezvous
Oct 13 – Calgary, AB – Pin Bar
Oct 14 – Lethbridge, AB – The Slice
Oct 15 – Moose Jaw, SK – Chillers
Oct 16 – Saskatoon, SK – Green Room
Oct 17 – Regina, SK – The Exchange
Oct 18 – The Pas, MB – The Wescana Inn
Oct 19 – Winnipeg, MB – Osborne Taphouse
Oct 31 – Thunder Bay, ON – The Hunger 18 (Downtown-wide Hallowe’en Festival)
* = without Teknosis

More Info:

https://www.facebook.com/TheFixerBand | https://www.instagram.com/thefixercanada | https://www.tiktok.com/@thefixercanada

https://www.facebook.com/teknosismetal | https://www.instagram.com/teknosis.metal/

-30-

“Teknosis puts listeners through their paces. It feels like the songs could go off the rails at any moment, but remain incredibly syncopated throughout…. Teknosis has created an EP that lays the groundwork for bigger things to come and leaves listeners eager to hear more.” Jason Wellwood – Walleye Magazine

“Dark. Sexy. Loud. It’s The Fixer, and they create a soundtrack that would be fit for a disco in Hell. The Canadian four-piece straddle the line between rock and metal” – Games, Brrrains & A Headbanging Life

“One of the great young acts I found in 2023 came from Canada, The Fixer, who have created bold music and an even bolder look. Led by vocalist Melladonna, the band tries to give the look of a goth outfit. The music, however, tells a different story, as the band rocks as hard as anything you might hear out there now (if not more aggressive). The hook song was “Smoke Show,” but there were quality tracks all through the record. I enjoyed “Ghosts Will Talk,” which presents a spookier sound, and the bookends to the album, the title track and “Your Truth,” which gives a storytelling aspect to the album. I will be interested in seeing where this band goes, and I certainly hope they can get down to the southern tip of North America to bring their sound to an audience that would enjoy them!” – Rock At Night

“The song material is simply great, the emotions are wonderfully combined, and the performance is absolutely over the top.” – PowerMetal.de

“A high-resolution journey through pop rock, goth spirit, punk moods, metal vibes, and party glam rock, with a hint of comedy horror. ‘Your Lie’ is a spiky sound with a razor-sharp edge throughout.” – Rock Queen Reviews

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

0 Ex-Nile Frontman Dallas Toler-Wade Revives “Annihilation of the Wicked” on NARCOTIC WASTELAND’s Fall Tour “Annihilation of The Wasteland”

August 19, 2025
by Asher
· Music News · Narcotic Wasteland

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 19, 2025

Ex-Nile Frontman Dallas Toler-Wade Revives “Annihilation of the Wicked” on NARCOTIC WASTELAND’s Explosive Fall Tour “Annihilation of The Wasteland”

+ New Music Video “Introspective Nightmares”

Narcotic Wasteland, fronted by ex-Nile guitarist/vocalist Dallas Toler-Wade along with drummer Joseph Howard (Fields of Elysium, Neuromorphic) and bassist Kenji Tsunami (Ontogeny), will be hitting the road for the “Annihilation of Wasteland Tour” (dates listed below). On this tour, they will be celebrating the 20-year release of “Annihilation of the Wicked”, in which Dallas will perform two of the songs he wrote for the album: “Lashed to the Slave Stick” and “The Burning Pits of the Duat”, giving Nile fans the unique opportunity to hear these tracks played live by the original voice and composer. Narcotic Wasteland will also be performing fan favorites and new material, including such tracks as “Barbarian”, “Sex, Lies and DNA”, “Introspective Nightmares”, “Coastal Killings”, “The Best Times Have Passed”, and more!

To mark the launch of their tour, the band is unveiling the official music video for “Introspective Nightmares” today, exclusively on Bravewords HERE.

Narcotic Wasteland is a relentless force in the metal scene, delivering a crushing blend of technical precision, unyielding aggression, and raw energy. Fronted by Dallas Toler-Wade—renowned vocalist and guitarist best known for his work with Nile—he brings his signature technical prowess and intense energy to the band.

On drums, Joseph Howard unleashes a torrent of precision and power, driving the band’s pummeling rhythms with thunderous intensity. His dynamic performance creates the perfect foundation for the band’s heavy and often dark sonic atmosphere.

Kenji Tsunami commands the low end with inventive, hard-hitting bass lines that add both depth and texture, solidifying the band’s signature wall of sound. His stage presence and musicianship bring an extra dimension to Narcotic Wasteland’s live assault.

Together, Dallas, Joseph, and Kenji forge an unstoppable musical unit—one that captivates audiences with high-octane performances and uncompromising compositions. With unmatched technical skill and a shared vision for pushing metal’s boundaries, Narcotic Wasteland stands as a true powerhouse in today’s extreme music landscape.

Playthrough video – “The Burning Pits of Duat” – https://youtu.be/nQG9tS0za-I

Music Video – “Barbarian” – https://youtu.be/E9ndVD2zzWk

Merch Stores:
Narcotic Wasteland – https://shopusa.season-of-mist.com/band/narcotic-wasteland
Dallas Toler-Wade – https://shopusa.season-of-mist.com/band/dallas-toler-wade

Tickets & Tour Info:
https://tr.ee/rZ3dOvB3TC

Headlining Shows:
9/03 – Madison, WI – The Annex
9/04 – West Chicago, IL – WC Social Club
9/05 – Flint, MI – Flint Local 432
9/06 – New Haven, IN – Carl’s Tavern
9/07 – Cleveland, OH – The Foundry
9/08 – Rochester, NY – Photo City Music Hall
9/09 – New Bedford, MA – The Vault
9/10 – Raleigh, NC – Chapel of Bones
9/11 – Spartanburg, SC – GroundZero (Special Guest to Crypta)
9/12 – Chattanooga, TN – JJ’s Bohemia
9/13 – Wallingford, CT – Cherry St. Station
9/14 – Dunbar, WV – Live at the Shop
9/15 – Charleston, SC – Tin Roof
9/17 – Orlando, FL – Conduit
9/18 – Fort Pierce, FL – Tipsy Tiki
9/19 – Tampa, FL – Brass Mug
9/20 – Long Beach, MS – Trax Bar & Grill

Special Guest to Filth:
9/21 – Atlanta, GA – Boggs Social & Supply
9/22 – Pensacola, FL – Handlebar
9/23 – Shreveport, LA – Strange Brew
9/24 – Amarillo, TX – The Atomic Yellow
9/25 – Denver, CO – Black Buzzard at Oskar Blues
9/26 – Greeley, CO – Moxi Theater
9/27 – Casper, WY – Wyoming Hardcore Festival
9/28 – Colorado Springs, CO – Vultures
9/29 – Lincoln, NE – Witches’ Brew
9/30 – Nashville, TN – The End

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

– 30 –

“”Narcotic Wasteland dropped a caustic, pissed off new single titled “Barbarian” off their forthcoming album Digital Cordyceps. Though we don’t know too much about said album, Toler-Wade explained that the new track was essentially one big middle finger to the ruling class.” – Metal Sucks

“We’ve got the latest and greatest from drug-themed death dealers Narcotic Wasteland, the new video for “Victims of the Algorithm.” The song takes on lightning-fast and heavy riffs, in the tradition of the band, and the lyrics tackle our dependence on social media in the modern age.” – Decibel Magazine

“Narcotic Wasteland have hit us with another dark, campy gem in the form of “Sex, Lies & DNA.” The thrashy, aggressive new single is the latest from the band led by Dallas Toler-Wade of Nile fame. This track features guest vocals from Andrea_N_Black and takes on the beloved death metal fodder of true crime.” – Decibel Magazine

“Narcotic Wasteland showcases Toler-Wade’s penchant for writing killer riffs, which he did for a decade as a member of Nile, in a manner that’s reminiscent of early 1990s metal — when the lines between the “thrash” and “death” tags weren’t as rigidly defined, and everything just sounded fast and heavy as all hell.” – Denver Westword (NW Headlines Denver DeathFest 2023)

“Delirium Tremens is just pummeling, non-stop death metal that covers a ton of ground.” – Metal Injection

“More often than not, death metal bands have a tendency to stick to the familiar topics. Death, gore, killing – that sort of thing. There’s always exceptions, or bands that have a different take on the subject, but as they say, dark music demands dark themes. Narcotic Wasteland does, for one of its lyrical slants, face a slightly different (yet still suiting) take – that of addiction. Plenty of grim to still go around with such a concept, and Narcotic Wasteland hits just as hard sonically as any other death metal act to come through the pipeline.” – Dead Rhetoric

“another incredible death metal album that has the potential to end itself up on the year end top album lists.” – Metal Nexus (2017 – Delirium Tremens)

“On the track, Toler-Wade furiously rails against “expectations,” “silly rules,” and “fucking filters,” and victoriously celebrates being “totally free” with a repeated battle cry of “Let the music flow!” In case there was still any remaining doubt as to the meaning of the song, the track is as magnificently brutal an old school death metal song as you’re likely to hear this season. It gallops, it lacerates, it uses the listener’s skull as a battering ram. There can be no doubt that this truly is Toler-Wade, undiluted and free of limitations. We hope he lets this music flow for a long time to come.” – Metal Sucks (single Return to the Underground off 2017 album Delirium Tremens)

“Narcotic Wasteland have released a fantastic album in ‘Delirium Tremens’. It is not easy to thrust the listener consistently into an aural landscape orchestrated by the band and make them stay put for the entire length of the album. Narcotic Wasteland does it brilliantly as they take you through the nightmarish journey of Delirium Tremens.” – Metal Wani (2017 – Delirium Tremens)

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

0 Quebec’s UNPUNISHED’s New Video “Shattered in Disarray” Marks Their Fierce Evolution + Quebec Tour Dates + New EP “Echoes of History” Out Sept 2025

August 19, 2025
by Asher
· Music News · Unpunished

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 19, 2025

Quebec’s UNPUNISHED’s New Video “Shattered in Disarray” Marks Their Fierce Evolution

Sophomore EP “Echoes of History” Out Sept 2025

Quebec Tour Dates (Quebec City, Trois-Rivieres, Montreal)

L-R – Pierre-Luc Defoy (Guitar, Back Vocals), Jean-Christophe Magnan (Vocals), Alex Brochu-Meloche (Bass, Back Vocals), Justin Lefebvre (Drums), Dean Pavicic (Guitar)

Photo Credit – Julien Bouffard

Quebec City’s rising metalcore force Unpunished returns with a gripping new single and music video, “Shattered in Disarray,” premiering exclusively on TheCirclepit. This marks the band’s third single in support of their upcoming sophomore EP, “Echoes of History,” set for release on September 5th, 2025.

Slower, darker, and emotionally raw, “Shattered in Disarray” dives deep into the psyche of someone confronting the wreckage of their own life. The song explores themes of regret, failure, and the haunting question: Is redemption still possible, or is it too late? With a melodic chorus riff and three distinct guitar solo sections, the track captures the emotional turbulence of its lyrics, inviting listeners to reflect on their own missteps and the hope of healing.

“It’s a song about realizing you’ve failed the ones you love. It’s about facing the consequences and wondering if there’s still a way out,” adds the band.

Watch and listen to “Shattered in Disarray” via TheCirclePit at https://youtu.be/Yr5pD6tPuas

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/2V8YKy50wVSJ6e5B9SPwrx

Written over two years during a period of personal upheaval for each band member, “Echoes of History”, produced by drummer Justin Lefebvre, is a testament to Unpunished’s resilience and creative evolution. The five-track EP showcases a diverse sonic palette, blending 2000s metalcore roots with melodic death metal riffs, deathcore breakdowns, and melodic choruses. Each track delivers a unique blend of emotion and musical identity, making the record a deeply immersive experience. Lyrically, the band explores human flaws, mental health, and social injustice, crafting songs that are both personal and powerful.

“We wanted each song to have its own flavor. No formulas, no repetition, just raw emotion and musical diversity,” says the band.

Drawing inspiration from metal giants like As I Lay Dying, Parkway Drive, Trivium, and The Black Dahlia Murder, Unpunished blends melodic, intense, aggressive, and diverse elements into a sound that’s unmistakably their own.

Pre-order “Echoes of History” (out Sept 5th) at https://unpunished.bandcamp.com.

Previous Singles:

Lyric Video – “Burn the Traitors” ft. Alex Leblanc (ex-Fracturus, ex-Neuraxis, ex-Mass Murder Messiah) – https://youtu.be/uJO4s8QDxng

“As Water Fills My Lungs” – https://youtu.be/HvyJu1Mo3uk

In additional news, Unpunished will be performing a series of show dates in the province of Quebec, listed below. Fans can anticipate a tight, high-energy live performance, with a dynamic setlist that mirrors the EP’s emotional and musical range.

Unpunished – Echoes of History EP Launch Tour w/ Concessions, Deadwood, In Disarray, Observants, Terror Symphony:

Sept 20 – Quebec City, QC – L’Anti Bar – info

Sept 27 – Trois Rivieres, QC – Taverne Royale – info

Oct 10 – Montreal, QC – Piranha Bar – info

Track Listing:
1. As Water Fills My Lungs – 4:49
2. Plague of Our Race – 4:39
3. Shattered in Disarray – 5:06
4. Echoes of History – 4:52
5. Burn the Traitors ft. Alex Leblanc – 4:38
EP Length: 24:06

Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Unpunished
• All songs written by: Unpunished
• Produced, mixed, and mastered by: Justin Lefebvre
• Album Artwork by: I And I Art
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

EP Recording and Live Line Up:
Jean-Christophe Magnan (vocals)
Justin Lefebvre (drums)
Alex Brochu-Meloche (bass, back vocals)
Pierre-Luc Defoy (guitar, backing vocals)
Dean Pavicic (guitar)

More info: Facebook.com/Unpunishedband | Instagram.com/unpunished_band

-30-

“UNPUNISHED Ignites Metalcore Scene with New Single “Burn the Traitors”… “Burn the Traitors” showcases guest vocalist Alex Leblanc, enhancing the track with his formidable experience. UNPUNISHED describes this single as their most brutal offering yet, leaning heavily into melodic death metal territory, devoid of clean vocals. The relentless intensity is punctuated by a captivating, melodic chorus and a strategically paced guitar solo, offering listeners a brief respite before plunging into the explosive climax.” – See Rock Live

“Le groupe de metalcore qui contient des sonorités de deathcore et death metal, Unpunished, a dévoilé une couleur plus agressive avec son nouvel extrait ¨Burn The Traitors¨, titre qui est collaboré au niveau vocal par Alex Leblanc de Fracturus (Ancien Mass Murder Messiah / Neuraxis).” – Grizzly Media

“It’s all this musical baggage that Alex Leblanc (Fracturus, ex-Mass Murder Messiah, ex-Neuraxis) brings to this new song UNPUNISHED. As a collaborator, of course, but he allows us to give another dimension to their sound which leans more towards melodic death this time. The intensity of the song growl from Jean-Christophe Magnan takes up much more space and gives new weapons to UNPUNISHED. At times we feel like we have a mix between Amon Amarth, Soilwork and Killswitch Engage. To discover!” – Metal Universe (2023 – Burn the Traitors – single)

“Unpunished comes to us with an EP that will please fans of metalcore from the good years combined with the more modern melodic side. The vocal playing between clear and « growl » is effective, especially on the title track « Shadows And Dust ». The guitar riffs are eye-catching and that’s one of the things that introduced me to metalcore in the mid-2000s, and we’re well served with this EP. They knew how to bring their personal touch to their influences, and that is what makes « Shadows And Dust» so effective.” – Metal Universe (2022 – Shadows and Dust EP)

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

0 Reminder – Aug 22-23 – Get A Preview of Salt Lake City’s GRILLFEST w/ Their Spotify 2025 Lineup Playlist w/ Judicator, Silver Talon, Advent Horizon, Michael Barrow & The Tourists, Seizure, Celestial Wizard, Arsenic Addiction, and more!

August 18, 2025
by Asher
· GrillFest 2025 · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 18, 2025

Festival Assets – Download HERE (Festival Info, Band Info, Links, Photos)

The Daily Utah Chronicle – Celebrate the End of Summer With Grillfest

Reminder – Aug 22-23 – Get A Preview of Salt Lake City’s GRILLFEST w/ Their Spotify 2025 Lineup Playlist

w/ Judicator, Silver Talon, Advent Horizon, Michael Barrow & The Tourists, Seizure, Celestial Wizard, Arsenic Addiction, and more!

August 22nd and 23rd at The Pearl on Main in Midvale, Utah

Resurrecting this August 22nd and 23rd in Salt Lake City, Utah, GrillFest is sharing their Spotify playlist for this year’s 2025 lineup featuring Judicator, Advent Horizon, Silver Talon, Michael Barrow & The Tourists, Seizure, Celestial Wizard, Arsenic Addiction, Viperwitch, Storm Haven, DiseNgaged, Hisingen, and Moon Wizard.

Get a sneak peek at what’s to watch and listen to at this year’s event – https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2LRmSLRw1oyC27oBUysbBI

GrillFest made a name for itself on the local scene in Midvale and Salt Lake City, Utah, in the early 2010s, with the last one being held in 2013. Founded by John Yelland of Judicator as a backyard festival that was organized by his first band, Disforia, GrillFest is now being revitalized. Supported by Judicator and the City of Midvale, and the Midvale Main Business Alliance. This year’s 2025 event will shut down Main Street and transform it into a full-scale festival. Local businesses will host pop-ups, and they’re curating a lineup of vendors offering savory food, desserts, and more. And of course, the music will remain diverse, dynamic, and electrifying.

Being hosted on August 22nd and 23rd at The Pearl on Main in Midvale, Utah, Grillfest ’25 is more than just an event—it’s a rekindling of something special. It’s a gathering for artists and fans who crave authenticity, connection, and experiences to cherish for the rest of their lives.

“Grillfest isn’t just another music festival—it’s a community movement built by fans—for fans. We’re bringing together some of the best underground metal acts from across the West, pairing them with real smokehouse BBQ and a no-frills, all-heart atmosphere. Our goal is to grow something truly special here in Utah: a boutique-style festival that stays loud, stays local, and gives both rising bands and dedicated fans a place to call home,” adds John Yelland, Founder of Grillfest and Vocalist of Judicator.

GrillFest ’25 Promo Video – https://youtu.be/wrCe8kK_Rb0

Two-day and single-day passes are available at https://linktr.ee/grillfestutah

Facebook Event – https://www.facebook.com/events/1264606655378437/

Grillfest ’25 Lineup:

Friday, August 22nd
Hisingen
Moon Wizard
Michael Barrow & The Tourists
Advent Horizon

Saturday, August 23rd
DiseNgaged
Viperwitch
Storm Haven
Celestial Wizard
Arsenic Addiction
Seizure
Silver Talon
Judicator

About The Headliners:

Judicator isn’t just a power metal band — it’s a reckoning with history and mortality, plumbing the depths of the human condition one album at a time.

Since their serendipitous formation in 2012, when singer John Yelland and guitarist Alicia Cordisco (ex-Judicator, Transgressive) crossed paths at a Blind Guardian concert, the band has been on a relentless journey to craft concept albums that confront existential anxiety in its many forms. From character studies of historical figures like Napoleon Bonaparte and Frederick the Great, to the deeply personal At the Expense of Humanity, which recounts Yelland’s experience losing his brother to cancer, Judicator brings history and humanity into sharp focus.

Rooted in Salt Lake City, Judicator has produced six albums over the course of a decade, with their latest opus, Concord, set to release in early 2025. The band’s blend of thought-provoking lyrics, memorable riffs, and charismatic energy has earned them a loyal following and some surreal milestones, like featuring Hansi Kürsch as a guest vocalist on 2018’s The Last Emperor and opening for Blind Guardian in Salt Lake City during the God Machine North American tour in 2024.

While co-founding member Alicia Cordisco departed in 2020, her legacy remains an integral part of Judicator’s DNA. Today, the band continues to push boundaries as a five-piece power metal powerhouse, weaving tales that are as epic as they are intimate.

Judicator’s music seeks to hold a mirror up to life’s greatest struggles and triumphs, whether great or small, whether grand historical sagas or intimate struggles with mortality. Judicator invites you to grapple with the inevitable, together, one song at a time.

Music Video – Concord – https://youtu.be/j-cmFyXuEBI

Info – https://linktr.ee/judicatormetal

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

USA-based prog rockers Advent Horizon are making waves in the progressive music world and beyond after the release of their new album “A Cell To Call Home.”

Featuring guest performances from Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater), Dave Meros (Spock’s Beard), Randy McStine (Porcupine Tree), and Jared Hill (Snow Child), plus album and single artwork by Travis Smith (Opeth, Devin Townsend), “A Cell To Call Home” has received high praise internationally from fans and reviewers alike. ProgRadio named “A Cell To Call Home” their 2023 “Album of the year”, while ProgReport and Sonic Perspectives ranked it at #5 and #4 respectively on their “Best of 2023” lists.

Much of 2024 was spent on the road, with performances across the USA. At Progstock in October 2024, “A Cell To Call Home” was performed live in its entirety and was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from festival attendees and multiple press outlets, with one reviewer writing, “something about this act really felt unusually magical.”

Following the success of their 2024 live appearances, Advent Horizon has returned to the studio and is currently recording their 4th full-length studio album, which features a side-long 20-minute epic track and 5 other heavy-hitting progressive rock/metal songs.

Music Video – Water – https://youtu.be/zsrQpq9eMWU

Info – https://www.adventhorizonmusic.com/

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

Silver Talon emerged from the remnants of the Portland heavy metal group Spellcaster after their disbandment in 2017. Seeking a sonic identity that was heavier and more aggressive, guitarist Bryce VanHoosen spearheaded the project and enlisted vocalist Wyatt Howell. Howell’s addition refined Silver Talon’s identity, setting the band distinctly apart from its predecessor. By late 2018, the band released their acclaimed debut EP, ‘Becoming A Demon.’

This release encapsulated the band’s uncompromising, raw-edged sound across five original tracks. Notably, it featured a collaboration with Jeff Loomis (Arch Enemy / Nevermore), who delivered a scorching guitar solo for a cover of Sanctuary’s cult classic, ‘Battle Angels.’ Despite a few lineup changes, the band navigated a tumultuous 2019, ultimately solidifying their lineup with guitarist Devon Miller and bassist Walter Hartzell, enhancing their power and versatility.

Throughout the 2020 pandemic, Silver Talon remained focused and productive, culminating in the release of ‘Deceiver, I Am,’ the lead single off their debut album ‘Decadence and Decay,’ in early December. This marked a new phase for the band, showcasing deeper arrangements, an expansive sound, and intricate musical layering.

In May of 2021, the full debut album ‘Decadence and Decay’ dropped, earning rave reviews and securing spots on both Decibel Magazine and Bandcamp’s top metal albums of the year lists. No Clean Singing praised the band’s songwriting and technical prowess, stating, “it’s the band’s songwriting (coupled with their obvious artistic abilities and technical talents) which really makes this record stand out from the crowd.” The album even boasted a collaboration with King Diamond’s main axeman, Andy La Rocque, on the track ‘Resistance 2029.’

The post-pandemic era brought touring opportunities in support of ‘Decadence and Decay,’ including appearances at Hell’s Heroes and Legions of Metal festivals, alongside shows across the United States with metal legends such as Cynic, Atheist, and Exmortus.

As 2023 unfolds, the band is diligently crafting their sophomore album, scheduled for release on M-Theory Audio.

Silver Talon’s music blends a brooding and dark approach to heavy metal with classic influences, paying homage to revered acts like King Diamond, Nevermore, Savatage, Judas Priest, and Alice in Chains, among others.

Music Video – Deceiver, I Am – https://youtu.be/34P2TiMSa_M

Info – https://silvertalon.us/

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

Please note: Main Street in front of the festival will be cordoned off, however, and so there will be a level of foot traffic—attendees who are only interested in the local business pop-ups, food trucks, and so on, but not the performances, which take place inside the venue.

About GrillFest:

GrillFest began humbly in the early 2010s as a backyard festival organized by John Yelland’s first band, Disforia. Held at their bassist’s house, it was a laid-back, community-driven celebration of local music, friendship, and grilling. They invited fellow bands of all styles—metal, punk, acoustic, death metal—and played from noon until noise curfew! There were no genre boundaries, no egos—just artists, fans, and neighbors coming together in an atmosphere that felt more like a family reunion than a festival.

As the years passed and life took them in different directions, Disforia disbanded, and the original Grillfest faded into memory. But its spirit never left John. That sense of connection, creativity, and grassroots joy is something he carried with him, and now, he is thrilled to bring it back in 2025.

About The Organizers:

John Yelland is the powerhouse frontman of Salt Lake City’s acclaimed power metal band Judicator, known for his soaring vocals and emotionally rich storytelling across seven studio albums. He’s also the voice of the epic doom project Behölder, and formerly of sci-fi power metal act Dire Peril. With collaborations ranging from Blind Guardian’s Hansi Kürsch to his genre-bending concept albums, Yelland is one of the most distinctive voices in modern metal. This year, he brings that fire home to Grillfest, joining a lineup built by and for foodies who love chill vibes and good music.

More info:

https://grillfestutah.com/

https://www.facebook.com/grillfestutah

https://www.instagram.com/grillfest.utah/

-30-

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

0 EPK – Teknosis – Return To Civilization (2024)

August 17, 2025
by Asher
· EPKs · Teknosis

EPK – Teknosis – Return To Civilization (2024)

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

“We had enough songs to record a full-length but decided to pick the best 5 so that fans could have our best material to date while experiencing a quick and violent sonic explosion that is as relentless as it is reliable on every listen.” – Travis – Teknosis

For fans of Lamb Of God, Burnt By The Sun, Pantera, Strapping Young Lad, Black Dahlia Murder

Band: Teknosis
EP Title: Return To Civilization EP
Released January 26, 2024
Label: Self-Released
EP Length: 15:54

Facebook.com/teknosismetal | Youtube.com/@teknosismetal
| Instagram.com/teknosis.metal

Teknosismetal.bandcamp.com | Teknosis.hearnow.com

Ugly Knots Tour 2025 – The Fixer, Teknosis
Oct 2 – La Sarre, QC – La Brute du Coin *
Oct 3 – Montreal, QC – Piranha Bar *
Oct 4 – Espanola, ON – Shorty’s *
Oct 9 – Fort Frances, ON – Pink Parasol Tea Room
Oct 10 – Brandon, MB – The 40
Oct 11 – Prince Albert, SK – Studio Q
Oct 12 – Edmonton, AB – The Rendezvous
Oct 13 – Calgary, AB – Pin Bar
Oct 14 – Lethbridge, AB – The Slice
Oct 15 – Moose Jaw, SK – Chillers
Oct 16 – Saskatoon, SK – Green Room
Oct 17 – Regina, SK – The Exchange
Oct 18 – The Pas, MB – The Wescana Inn
Oct 19 – Winnipeg, MB – Osborne Taphouse
Oct 31 – Thunder Bay, ON – The Hunger 18 (Downtown-wide Hallowe’en Festival)
* = without Teknosis

[Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics]

Band: Teknosis
EP Title: Return To Civilization EP
Released January 26, 2024
Label: Self-Released

Track Listing:
1. Where Is Your God? (3:57)
2. Matriarch (2:48)
3. Shapeshifter (3:07)
4. Relapse and Resume (3:05)
5. The Cycle (2:56)
EP Length: 15:54

EP Credits:
– All songs performed and written by Teknosis
– Recorded and Mixed by Ryan MacDonald at Lionheart Sound Co
– Mastered by Topon Das at Apartment 2
– Artwork by Candice Wojciechowski
– Member of SOCAN (but now that you mention it I will register us)
– Canadian Content – MAPL

Album And Live Line Up
Craig Kainulainen – Guitars
Andrew Wojciechowski – Vocals
Travis Doggett – Bass
Ian – Drums

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

About The EP Artwork

The EP artwork is of an abandoned grain elevator. There are a lot of them in our hometown. Occasionally, they get fixed up or blown up. With the title Return To Civilization, it has a sort of “coming back from an apocalypse’ sort of vibe

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

Lyrically, the EP as a whole is a culmination of anger and frustration built up during lockdowns. While each song shows aggression, some songs reflect the state of the world at the time, while a couple of others reflect some of the coping mechanisms and distractions used to get through that time -Andrew

Track by Track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

1. Where is your God?
Lyrically: This song was written about a true crime story involving a father who felt his family had strayed too far from their religion, so he took it upon himself to kill them all before his god would no longer accept them.

Musically: Song starts with a Morse code build up, so a simple headbanging riff that could make you wanna throwdown if you’re into that. The verse has consistent complexity in the guitar playing with a steady, double bass slow groove behind it. The song Ebs and Flows finally climaxes with a drum solo playing along to the outro riff.

2. Matriarch
Lyrically: “ was written about a mother who denied to herself and others that her son was diabetic, and rather than give him proper treatment, she allowed him to wither away, resulting in the young man being in his teens and so bone thin that he was essentially mummified at the time of his passing.” Andrew

Musically: Matriach comes out of the gate swinging hard and never stops. It’s got a heavy double bass verse with a blast beat chorus. The bridge is probably the heaviest thing we’ve ever written. This song is often put last in our set due to the outro being an explosion of groove and heaviness that makes me and the whole band go ape shit, as if they wish they were the ones in the pit

3. Shapeshifter
Lyrically: Shapeshifter was written about the Heaven’s Gate cult, that were convinced our bodies were mere vehicles that were to be used temporarily until their ship came to take them home. They believed the Hale-Bopp comet’s second tail was their ride home, at which point they executed a mass suicide to return to their true form.

Musically: Shapeshifter is a more straightforward song. The chorus is very big single notes and syncopated drum bass that could destroy an arena of 1000s of metalheads. The bridge riff is so evil that it sounds like it could be the music that plays on an elevator to hell. The band even finds themselves experimenting with dynamics as they bring it down just enough so that the final chorus punches you so hard in the face, people will wonder if you are a shape shifter

4. Relapse and Resume
Lyrically: Relapse and resume is a more personal one, reflecting losing someone, and every time that person crosses your mind it’s like going through that day again and then resuming your life as normal.

Musically: Relapse verse sees the band utilizing a more upbeat tempo, the kind of tempo that makes you think about a gorilla I a leather jacket on a motorcycle cruising down the highway at dusk. Suddenly, as the chorus hits, the gorilla leaps off the motorcycle and punches a member of a rival bike gang, who just so happens to be a grizzly bear. As the beast throws punches, the riffs get heavy and heavy. The bridge is moody metal with super-fast double bass while Andrew Wojo does a spoken word to fit the vibes. Even bassist Travis Doggett manages to get a bass solo in before the chorus comes back on last time

5. The Cycle
Lyrically: The cycle is about how, during COVID lockdowns, it felt as though it were continuously going back through the same motions, only to end up at the beginning again and await the cycle to start again.

Musically: The cycle is a fan favourite. It’s got everything you need from a metal song: blast beats, weird time changes, groovy verse, and a catchy but heavy chorus.

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

FUN FACTS – STORY ANGELS

1. During the recording of Return to Civilization, down the hall from the studio was a theatrical vocal studio. We would often finish takes and hear the subtle voice of what I can only assume was a butterfly in human form. Don’t worry, we were much louder!

2. Craig and Travis have toured Canada in the past with their former band Faceless Hulk. They may not be in their 20s anymore, but they can still rock!

3. The opening riff for the Where Is Your God? Is actually Morse code for ‘K V L T’

4. BAND FUN FACT – Andrew’s wife, Candice, designs and prints nearly all of our merch, allowing us to do small runs of fun things like booty shorts, hats, patches, and more. Check out the merch table on tour! She also designed the artwork for the release “Return To Civilization”

L to R – Andrew Wojciechowski – Vocals | Craig Kainulainen – Guitar | Ian – Drums | Travis Doggett – Bass

Photo Credit – Incompass Photography

Teknosis is a crushing force in modern metal, born from chaos and forged in groove. Founded by guitarist Craig Kainulainen in 2019, the band made its live debut in the shadow of a global pandemic, unleashing their raw energy with Andrew Wojo on vocals, Travis Doggett on guitar, and Ian on drums.

Blending bone-shaking grooves with intricate technicality, Teknosis draws influence from metal giants like Pantera, Meshuggah, and The Black Dahlia Murder, creating a sound that’s both ferocious and precise. Their music is a relentless assault of tight, hard-hitting riffs and head-nodding rhythms, wrapped in a dark, aggressive atmosphere.

In 2024, they dropped their debut EP, Return to Civilization, a fierce introduction to their uncompromising style. Known for their high-octane performances, Teknosis live is an all-out onslaught of intensity—controlled chaos that leaves stages wrecked and crowds breathless.

Catch Teknosis on tour in October 2025 with alt-goth rockers The Fixer, bringing their sonic warfare to venues across the country.

Teknosis is a groove-heavy, technically charged metal band formed by Craig Kainulainen in 2019. Fusing the crushing intensity of Pantera, Meshuggah, and The Black Dahlia Murder, their sound is a brutal mix of heavy riffs and precision. Debuting live post-pandemic with Andrew Wojo (vocals), Travis Doggett (bass), and Ian (drums), Teknosis brings pure chaos to the stage. Their debut EP, Return to Civilization, dropped in 2024. Catch them on tour with The Fixer in October 2025.

Discography:
2024 – Return To Civilization EP
2023 – The Cycle Demo

Shared Stage with:
Born Of Osiris
Cancer Bats
Convictions
The Browning
Virvum
Stortgren
Texas Toast Chainsaw Massacre
Truent
The Anchor
Wormwitch
First Fragment

0 EPK – The Fixer – Your Lie (2023)

August 17, 2025
by Asher
· EPKs · The Fixer

EPK – The Fixer – Your Lie (2023)

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

“Fans have appreciated that ‘Your Lie’ combines energy and rawness of louder genres with a sense of melody and catchiness. It has often been noted that our songwriting style is what draws listeners in. We try to give a unique listening experience by using sounds and textures you wouldn’t always expect to go together. We want to take you along the same journeys we are experiencing through music, sometimes fun and high, and sometimes hurt and low. We often use opposing techniques like voice acting to power vocals, clean and jangling guitars to high gain riffs, horror and unsettling to pretty and heartfelt ambiences, or four-to-the-floor to double kick beats. We try to keep our approach dynamic and varied under the metal umbrella.” – The Fixer

For fans of In This Moment, Lacuna Coil, Motionless in White, Evanescence, Rob Zombie

Facebook.com/TheFixerBand | Youtube.com/@thefixercanada | Instagram.com/thefixercanada | Tiktok.com/@thefixercanada

Spotify | Thefixercanada.bandcamp.com | Apple Music

“The song material is simply great, the emotions are wonderfully combined, and the performance is absolutely over the top.” – PowerMetal.de

“The vocalist certainly brings it. She is dynamic and very expressive… “It’s catchy, filled with energy and absolutely gothic.” – Jamie Funk – Pitch Perfect Site ( The Prowl – 2020)

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Band: The Fixer
Album: Your Lie
Release Date: November 10, 2023
Label: WormHole Death Records
Distribution: The Orchard

Track Listing
1. Your Lie (4:48)
2. Get Greasy (3:07)
3. Smoke Show (3:13)
4. Ghosts Will Talk (3:54)
5. Animal (3:55)
6. Tongue’s Bleeding (3:45)
7. Colour Deficit (4:27)
8. Tree Of Fire (3:48)
9. Unscrewed (3:54)
10. Your Truth (5:18)
Album Length: 40:29

Album Credits:
Lyrics by Melladonna, Music by Vic Sin: Tracks 1 & 5
• Lyrics by Melladonna and Vic Sin, Music by Vic Sin: Tracks 2, 6 & 7
• Lyrics and Music by Vic Sin: Tracks 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11
• Additional Guitars on Track 1 by Dustin Saarinen
• Additional Vocals on Track 3 by Roy Noga
• Engineered, Mixed and Mastered by Vic Sin
• Produced by Vic Sin & The Fixer
• Photography by Melladonna, Keegan Richard & The Fixer
• Album Artwork by Raymundo “Boneless Boy” Onae
• Text Art and Logo by Blaqk Design
• Total List of Performers on Album: Shawn Hartviksen, Armelle Sandford, Dustin Saarinen, Ryan Hughs, Roy Noga, John Forget,
• Total List of contributing writers: Shawn Hartviksen, Armelle Sandford, Dustin Saarinen, John Forget,
• Album Artwork by: Boneless Boy
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content – MAPLAlbum Band Line Up for Your Lie AlbumVic Sin – Guitar, backup vocals, Drums, Synth
Melladonna – Vocals
Ryan Hughs – Base, backup vocals
Dustin Saarinen – Additional GuitarCurrent Live Band Line Up:
Vic Sin – Guitar, backup vocals
Melladonna – Vocals
Busuzu – Bass, backup vocals
Null – Drums

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

About The Album Artwork:

Your Lie: An illustration of the band members on a narrow neon street, with Melladonna unhappily being puppeted.

The album as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

Your Lie was largely an album of self and external reflection, a purging of darkness into something constructive. A look at what could hold a person back from getting to where they want to be, and the many crossroads one will find themselves at on their way out of personal lows. The songs from Your Lie were written over a long period of time. Some of them date back before The Prowl EP. There is a sense of musical exploration.

Track by Track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

1. Your Lie – About the lies you tell yourself to be okay. Then, about opening your mind to someone else’s perceived reality. Musically drawing inspiration from classic Nu Metal with subtle horror-type samples. Complete with an ambient build-up into an epic outro.

2. Get Greasy – Having fun and being confident. Musically influenced by the cartoonish goth-leaning bands from the ’90s grunge era and some noise rock approaches. Written in a triplet swing with a mix of several different guitar tones and approaches.

3. Smoke Show – Written about a couple of “wild child” friends who lived to party. Somewhere between indie-pop and metal. Has been compared to the B-52s having a hard rock or metal phase. Guitar riffs take inspiration from White Zombie, vocals come from The Ting Ting,s and the drums are a hard rock/metal approach with a mild bossanova flare to the rhythm pattern. The chorus was designed to come across like a party anthem.

4. Ghosts Will Talk – The things you wish you had said or done differently that keep you up at night. Heavy riffs sprinkled amongst an onslaught of creepy and melancholic melodies. Drawing on horror and industrial feeling, electronics.

5. Animal – About not being seen as an equal individual with values outside of one’s body. Musically blending influences from reggae and industrial pop for the verses and an anthemic arena rock style chorus. Complete with a breakdown and a vibey guitar solo.

6. Tongue’s Bleeding – About not wanting your internal negative feelings to affect those that you care about around you. Tongue’s Bleeding was an attempt to have interesting rhythmic choices while still being able to feel a groove and a very easy-to-digest vocal and melodies. Drawing inspiration from classic Kittie and some more modern touches like Spiritbox.

7. Colour Deficit – Not knowing somebody is as deep into suicidal thoughts as they were and wishing that they knew when they were in times of need that you’d be a person they could reach out to. Musically Vic was channeling his love for melancholic melodic metal guitarwork from bands like Paradise Lost, October Tide, and similar bands.

8. Tree of Fire – About people misusing religion to justify whatever their actions are. Tree of Fire was working on crafting something that took the listener on an unsettling journey. Frantic guitar riffs with unusual melodies and soundscapes. Something suitable for a horror movie soundtrack.

9. Unscrewed – About the impact someone’s actions can have on another human, and even when trying to help, you can’t change what happened. Bookended by musical pieces inspired by The Cure’s Pornography era, the song bounces between a frantic chorus and groove metal verses. Topped by vocals that draw influence from Melladonna’s past in theatre.

10. Your Truth – Knowing you need to change what you’re doing in your life, will you ask for help or let your vices overtake you? It comes across like a 3 / 4 dirge with a sense of melody and builds up with a sense of epicness.

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

FUN FACTS – STORY ANGLES:

1. The Story of Bususu: A few weeks before our “Ghosts Will Tour”, our bass player at the time had to suddenly drop out. After being turned down by many other musicians unable to tour at such short notice, we ended up asking this man, as a last-ditch effort, thinking he wouldn’t be interested, but knowing how awesome a musician he is, and he miraculously accepted! Thus SUB was born! We enjoyed his company and the camaraderie we shared so much that we wanted to keep him! We created a new role for him as a keyboard player and changed his name to USB. We played One. Single. Show. this way- and then we lost our drummer. We were struggling to find another drummer that could fit all the boxes of drumming proficiency, schedule availability, and compatible personality, until our substitute bass player-turned-keyboard player said, “Let me give it a try”. Thus, BUS was born! Busuzu learned the entire set on a third instrument- an instrument that he had been playing for less than a year- and we took him on our longest, most treacherous tour to date: The Love and Misfortune Tour. We somehow survived this coast-to-coast Canadian-wide tour, but afterward, our bass player could not commit to how much The Fixer wanted to tour and continue to ramp things up. Busuzu, seeing an opening, chose to return to bass: his instrument of choice… but not for long… Not forever.

2. The Fixer had been an entirely DIY band for its formative years, with even early merch printing being handled by the band. The next singles of the band will see their first efforts working with Trevor Hurst of Econoline Crush and Peril of Phantom High, providing additional vocal production, and Jeremy Valentyne of New Years Day and Adam Williams, formerly of Fame Fatale, handling mixing and mastering.

3. We travel very close, all in one vehicle, often sleeping all in the same room. I think it brings us together; we really have a lot of love and respect for our fellow band members. We have, unfortunately, had several members need to move on from the band, often because their lives got too busy to dedicate the amount of time and brain required to be in The Fixer as a touring band. We have been very lucky to be able to work with so many talented musicians, but when it comes to the band, you can’t just be a good musician; you have to be a good person and be able to (and want to) be as passionate about our music and performances as we are.

4. The Fixer’s first introduction to the public was during the pandemic. Our first music video for “Take You Home” was shot the week before the pandemic lockdowns. Rather than hanging on to our materials to release when we could play live, we released The Prowl EP in the first half of 2020. Although released later, “Your Lie” was partly written and mostly recorded during the lockdowns.

5. We often have several T-shirt designs and put a lot of thought and effort into our merch. We enjoy working with various artists and love getting to showcase their talent any time we have visuals. We have gotten the opportunity to work with a street artist in Mexico, local digital artists, a tattoo artist, and Vic happens to have a very talented niece who has done several designs for us. We want everyone to find a Fixer-T that integrates with their style!

L-R: The Fixer Current Line Up | Vic Sin (Guitar) | Null (Drums) | Busuzu (Bass) | Melladonna (Vocals)
Photography by: Chu Shang

From Parts Unknown, Ontario, Canada, The Fixer fuses pop vocals, danceable rhythms, crushing guitars and earworm melodies into a synth-drenched sound that has been described as Melodious Darkened Pop-Metal.

To really get the full impact of what The Fixer is, you need to see it live. It’s high energy, it’s emotive, it’s theatrical, and it feels larger than life. Clad in goth-glam attire and with their synchronised light show, they leave an impression that is hard to forget. The Fixer walks an interesting line that has seen audiences dancing as well as moshing at their shows.

With multiple tours under their belt and crossing 8 provinces in their home country, they’ve been leaving impressions as a must-see live act. Meanwhile landing themselves multiple fan-voted awards in their hometown’s art publication, been featured as an undiscovered gem across Corus radio stations and on Global News, been featured as indie band of the week by Alan Cross on The Edge 102.1FM, featured in Sonic Seducer, charted number 5 on Radio Indie Alliance’s Rock charts, signed to Wormhole Death Records among several other accomplishments.

Old Bio: They create a soundtrack that would be fit for a Disco in Hell. The Fixer mixes heavy riffs and undeniable pop sensibilities filtered through a beautiful, darkened lens. The Canadian female-fronted 5 piece would be best considered a crossover act that straddles the line between metal and rock. Join these lovely creatures in their world that revolves around earworm melodies, danceable beats, heavy guitars, groovy bass lines, eerie ambience and powerful vocals. While the band has a very distinguishable aesthetic, there is seemingly nothing off-limits that might make its way into their music. Whether it is their more obvious influences from goth, metal and industrial, or more subtle nods to world music and EDM.

2023 will see the release of the Fixer’s debut full-length album, “Your Lie.” The band brings you to their dark side of fun on the album’s lead single “Smoke Show” and their live favourite “Get Greasy” while also expanding their sound into a more evil and frantic approach on tracks like “Unscrewed” and “Tree of Fire”. Their work on harnessing their melodic prowess has created a highly addictive brand of heavy dark rock with shameless pop hooks apparent on tracks like “Ghosts Will Talk” and “Animal.” The Fixer also puts their seasoned musical abilities on display on tracks like “Tongue’s Bleeding” and “Colour Deficit.” Prepare for a sonically dynamic album from start to finish with a signature sound that is hard to define by one single genre.

The Fixer has been turning heads with their previous releases, establishing themselves as a must-see live act and gaining multiple nominations over the past years in their local arts publication (including a couple of wins in 2022). They were featured as Indie Band of the Week by Alan Cross at 102.1 The Edge in Toronto, signed to Wormhole Death Records for their new album, and have achieved several other milestones in their short existence in our realm. The freight train that is The Fixer shows no signs of slowing down on delivering its “Dark.Sexy.Loud.” brand to the world.

The Fixer is continuing to refine its sound that goes best with black leather, straight bourbon, and clove cigarettes. The band is always eager to bring a devilishly good time to stages, gutters, and back alleys near you.

Discography:
2023 – Your Lie – Album
2022 – Depart – Single
2020 – The Prowl – EP

Tours and Festivals:
2025 – Support on Derev’s Troubled Mind Tour – Thunder Bay, ON
2025 – The Fixer’s Spring 2025 Tour – ON, MB, QC,
2024 – Tri-Sport – Marathon, ON
2024 – The Fixer’s Love and Misfortune Tour – MB, AB, ON, SK, BC, NB, NS, NL
2023 – The Fixer’s Ghosts Will Tour – MB, AB, BC, SK
2023 – Support on Econoline Crush’s When The Devil Drivers Tour – Thunder Bay, ON
2023 – Rock The Dock – Amberlite Wilderness Resort
2023 – Underground Wasteland – Penticton, BC
2023 – The Fixer’s Hot Goth Summer Tour – ON, MB

0 EPK – Devolver – Non Compos Mentis (2025)

August 16, 2025
by Asher
· Devolver · EPKs

EPK – Devolver – Non Compos Mentis (2025)

Publicist – Jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com

“We think it will be embraced by fans of our first album, but it’s a huge evolution of our sound. Our first album was a passion project for Devin, but this is what the five of us sound like collaborating as a unit. The razor-sharp production from Mark Lewis helped us push this thing over the edge, into something we think people will really grab onto. We want to give people the feeling we felt when we first heard our favourite bands, and the albums that made us fall in love with music.” – Devolver

For fans of In Flames, At The Gates, Soilwork, Killswitch Engage, Lamb of God

Band Title: Devolver
Album Title: Non Compos Mentis
Release Date: August 22, 2025
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Symphonic
Album Length: 32:55

Linktr.ee/devolverab | Facebook.com/DevolverMusic | Instagram.com/devolvermusic | YouTube.com/@devolvermusic2843

Devolvermusic.bandcamp.com | Spotify | Apple Music

“Devolver uses melodies, intensity, and a variety of vocalists to hook you, reeling you from song to song making this such a welcoming and comfortable listen. I don’t mean they’re “easy listening,” there heavy as f***, I mean there’s always something different, you’ll never get bored while diving into this debut.” – Vulture Hound

“If After The Burial and The Ghost Inside had a lovechild, it would be Devolver. These guys blew me away with how professional, well written, and how well structured they’ve presented themselves with their SelfTitled record. Each song has its own personality, while still maintaining a signature sound. The breakdowns are simple, yet effective in each song. There is dynamic tension and then well-needed release throughout the record, and it’s downright masterful. This album is captivating, and I recommend anyone that is a fan of metal to check this out.” – Bucketlist Music Reviews

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Band Title: Devolver
Album Title: Non Compos Mentis
Release Date: August 22, 2025
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Symphonic

Track Listing:
1. Deathtouch – 3:55
2. New Blood – 3:14
3. Jewels of the Maw – 3:30
4. Wraiths – 3:20
5. At Any Cost – 3:40
6. Non Compos Mentis – 3:53
7. Merciless Storm – 3:56
8. Suffocating Syndrome – 3:36
9. Dehumanize – 3:47
Album Length: 32:55

Album Credits:
– All songs performed by: Devolver
– All songs written by: Devolver
– Produced, Mixed, Mastered by: Mark Lewis
– Album Artwork by: Travis Smith
– SOCAN members

Band Lineup:
Chris Brown – Vocals
Devin Babcock – Guitar (lead)
Jayde Penner – Guitar (rhythm)
Bevin Booth – Drums
Jaylen Elias – Bass

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

About The Album Artwork:

We worked with Travis Smith on this album, which we were super excited about. We worked closely with him on the concept, with the art being a great interpretation of the story of the title track, Non Compos Mentis. This track is about the true story of Amos Babcock, the ancestor of our guitarist Devin Babcock. The artwork features a shadowed and bloodied Amos, in the snow with a shovel, after he murdered his sister in a fit of religious frenzy. He committed this horrific act in front of his family, including his nine children, represented by the eyes in the background. He proceeded to desecrate the body and attempted to hide the evidence by burying her in a snowbank not far from his home. This insane, true story is just so striking and disturbing, we had fun going back and forth with Travis, making something that felt like a powerful representation. Travis is an incredible artist whose portfolio is legendary. He’s done some of the most iconic album artworks for bands like Opeth, Megadeth, and countless others, so we’re honoured to have a piece of art that sits among that caliber of work. He knocked it out of the park.

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

We’ve built a tracklist that we feel is truly driving, musically and lyrically compelling, and engrossing the whole way through. Our goal was to put together a body of work that when you start at track one, you can’t put down until it’s over, and we’re very proud of this record.

Track by Track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

1. Deathtouch
Deathtouch is fast fast-paced, melodic, and heavy track with a big hook chorus both musically and vocally. Lyrically, it addresses the inescapable fear of loss, defeat, and death, and learning to overcome those challenges and fears.

2. New Blood
New Blood is a start-to-finish no-quit song with a lot of riffs and a lot of leads. Sure to be a favorite of guitar players. Talks about the thoughts of leaving your old life behind to find and start a new one, even if it is the life of a vampire.

3. Jewels of the Maw
Jewels of the maw is a thrashy yet groove-oriented song which takes turns you might not expect, but are sure to suck you in. This one is based on all the many themes in the novel Bluebeard by Kurt Vonnegut, condensing themes of genocide, generational trauma, survivor’s syndrome, and the importance and value of the creation and appreciation of art as part of the human experience

4. Wraiths
Wraiths is a groovy, straightforward track with a big chorus, with some thrash hints and a hint of classic rock/metal. This one digs into interesting spiritual themes of alchemy and speaking with animals as a conduit to communicate with dead loved ones.

5. At Any Cost
This song was originally written for my and Jaylen’s old band. Devin and Jayde reworked it and planned on using it for a future album, but when Mark heard the reworked demo, he pushed for it to be on this album. We further rewrote in the studio with Mark while tracking it. The song really came alive when Bevin and Mark pushed the drums in a different direction than mine and Devin’s demo. It got faster and heavier and became the ripper it is today. Statement about the true cost of conflict.

6. Non Compos Mentis
Non Compos is a dark-themed themed slower banger that has symphonic elements and sludgy riffs. Lyrically, the darkest song on the album, the title track (and album artwork), is a true Canadian Heritage Minute, based on the true story of our guitarist Devin Babcock’s ancestor, Amos Babcock. In Shediac, New Brunswick, in 1805, Amos murdered his sister in a fit of religious frenzy, with his family of nine children as onlookers. He tried to hide her body in a snowbank, but was arrested, tried, and hanged for his crime after being pronounced “Non Compos Mentis” and hanged for his crime. He was only the 3rd man to be convicted of murder in the history of New Brunswick.

7. Merciless Storm
This wasn’t supposed to be a serious song when I started writing the demo. I was trying to write the most obnoxious, slammy, heavy riff I could think of. The groovy solo riff was originally the verse of the song, and the chorus was a very basic version of what it is now. Devin spiced up the rhythm guitars for the second half of choruses 2 and 3, and I wrote leads over top that really took the song to the next level. We made the slammy riff the verse with some tweaks to spice it up. While in the studio, Mark thought the song needed something big before the solo, so I wrote the breakdown riff on the spot, and the song was complete. Devin wrote one of his most insane solos on this one with the craziest horsey squeal. Unrelenting force and the horrors brought in the aftermath of a natural disaster.

8. Suffocating Syndrome
I pulled some inspiration from Psycroptic for the verse riff of this one. The structure is fairly simple with each riff changing slightly each time it comes back. The melodic chorus is a really cool contrast to the heavy, noodly nature of the rest of the track, and I think features some of Chris’s best vocal work. The song culminates in a huge soaring chorus at the end with a super tasty solo mixed in, then comes crashing to an insane, chaotic ending that will surely leave some soiled pants. This song went through the fewest rewrites in the studio. Discusses the themes of mental illness, with topics of dementia, split personality, and the loss of self-identity.

9. Dehumanize
Dehumanize is our take on melodic thrash metal. It’s a fast-paced song through and through, only taking a slight break to catch our breath. Tells the story of a mass production robot gaining consciousness, only to realize they are destroying the world. With this realization, it knows the only hope for humanity is the complete destruction of all the robots to rebuild the world. This song discusses the feelings and themes of being an automated drone in the workforce and society, and asks the question: What is your purpose?

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

FUN FACTS – STORY ANGLES:

1. We recorded this album with producer Mark Lewis (Trivium, Black Dahlia Murder, Whitechapel, so many more), going all in on the quality of this thing and truly making the best, most powerful album we were capable of. We flew him up here to stay with us for the recording process, but we also travelled to record drums and guitar solos in his studio in Nashville

2. We worked with legendary artist Travis Smith on the album art. (Opeth, Megadeth, Death, Avenged Sevenfold, and more)

3. The title track (and album artwork) is a true Canadian Heritage Minute, based on the true story of our guitarist Devin Babcock’s ancestor, Amos Babcock. In Shediac, New Brunswick, in 1805, Amos murdered his sister in a fit of religious frenzy, with his family of nine children as onlookers. He tried to hide her body in a snowbank, but was arrested, tried, and hanged for his crime after being pronounced “Non Compos Mentis” and hanged for his crime. He was only the 3rd man to be convicted of murder in the history of New Brunswick.

4. We’ve collaborated with a local craft brewery (Grain Bin Brewing) here in our hometown of Grande Prairie, Alberta, to brew a beer of our own design to commemorate the release of our new album. A blackberry & blood orange pale ale named “Brews of the Maw” (a pun on our song “Jewels of the Maw”), we’re super excited about this partnership.

5. As Magic: The Gathering fans, we couldn’t help ourselves but put some references in the album and lyrics, even going so far as to name a song Deathtouch.

6. We try not to take ourselves too seriously and just try to have fun with our music videos. The video for our single Merciless Storm features a hot dog-eating contest and the unholy creation of a disgusting hot dog smoothie.

L-R: Jayde Penner (guitar), Bevin Booth (drums), Jaylen Elias (bass), Devin Babcock (guitar), Chris Brown (vocals)

Photo Credit – Heidi Robertson

Hailing from Grande Prairie, Canada, Devolver’s particular brand of metal can be described as “Gothenburg worship meets NWOAHM”. Formed by guitarist Devin Babcock and drummer/producer Bevin Booth, and later rounded out by guitarist Jayde Penner, vocalist Chris Brown, and bassist Jaylen Elias, Devolver blends groovy metalcore and melodic death metal, creating a unique sound that appeals to fans of modern metal genres while embracing their old school influences. With their forthcoming heavy-hitting new album in tow, produced by Mark Lewis (The Black Dahlia Murder, Trivium, Whitechapel), they are ready to make waves both in Canada and internationally.

Discography:
Non Compos Mentis (album) – 2025
Unscathed (single) – 2020
A Life Lost (single) – 2017
Devolver (album) – 2016

Shared Stage with: Protest The Hero, Bat Sabbath (Cancer Bats), Arrival of Autumn, Carcosa, Angelmaker, Neck of the Woods, Kelevra, Eye of Horus, Snakepit

Tours and Festivals:
2022 – Loud As Hell
2023 – Big Bad West Tour (with Widow’s Peak and Snakepit)
2024 – Alberta tour (with Kelevra)

0 Canadian PsyDeathTechProg THE JUDGE THE JUROR’s New Single “Heliconian Optivisor” Is Metal Alchemy At Its Finest + New EP “Primitive Minds” Out Fall 2025

August 15, 2025
by Asher
· Music News · The Judge The Juror

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 15, 2025

Canadian PsyDeathTechProg THE JUDGE THE JUROR’s New Single “Heliconian Optivisor” Is Metal Alchemy At Its Finest

New EP “Primitive Minds” Out Fall 2025

L-R – Scotty Oakes (Guitar), David W Frontenac (Vocals/Synth/Programming), Nick Burpee (Drums), Merrick Fenton (bass)

Photo by Agnes Benson

Edmonton, Canada’s most electrifying new metal force, The Judge The Juror (TJTJ), has dropped their blistering new single, “Heliconian Optivisor,” the first taste of their upcoming conceptual EP, “Primitive Minds,” set to release on November 7th, 2025. This marks the beginning of an ambitious trilogy of EPs that will unfold over the next eight months, each exploring the collapse of the human condition through the band’s self-forged genre: PSYDEATHTECHPROG.

A mesmerizing, fast-paced assault of sonic force, “Heliconian Optivisor” dives deep into the psychological tension of viewing the world through distorted lenses, red flags we fail to see until it’s too late. The track blends blistering tech-death precision with psychedelic synths and progressive structures, reflecting the band’s desire to find authentic community without compromising identity.

“What happens when you realize that you may have been viewing parts of your life through a lens you didn’t create? This song speaks of our human desire to find community and belonging that doesn’t come at the cost of selling our souls to fit in. This sentiment has been an ongoing discussion for the band members, as we try to carve a new, unique, and niche sound. We don’t always know where we fit into the metal scene, but we know we want to be authentic and stay true to what we believe without compromising. This balancing creates a push and pull of emotions that the musical structure of the song builds on,” says David W Frontenac (Vocals/Synth/Programming).

Listen to “Heliconian Optivisor”:

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3C2WhOCsDXM

Add to your Spotify Playlist – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/thejudgethejuror/heliconian-optivisor

The first of three conceptually linked EPs, “Primitive Minds” explores the paradox of modern humans trapped in ancient mental frameworks. Lyrically and musically, it’s a psychedelic futurist journey, equal parts brutal and introspective. TJTJ‘s release plans for the EPs will be November 7th, 2025, “Primitive Minds”, early 2026 “Medieval Institutions”, and mid-2026 “Godlike Technologies”. Each release will build on the last, culminating in a sweeping narrative about societal collapse, technological alienation, and the search for meaning.

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

About: Formed from the ashes of previous projects, The Judge The Juror (TJTJ) is a collaborative powerhouse born out of Edmonton’s vibrant metal scene. With members Scotty, Merrick, Nick, and David—formerly of Driven to Exile and Vespertine Battle Scene—the band draws from a wide spectrum of influences including Meshuggah, Cynic, Dance Gavin Dance, and VOLA to forge a genre entirely their own: PSYDEATHTECHPROG.

Amidst the vast landscape of tedious and semantic metal subgenres, TJTJ emerges to carve out a bold new niche. Their sound—described in five words as Psychedelic Progressive Techdeath—combines technical riffage, intricate drum grooves, and experimental synthesis to dazzle the mind. Their writing process is deeply collaborative, often sparked by singular musical ideas and built layer by layer into sonic journeys that challenge and captivate.

With a blistering high-energy live presence and a fearless commitment to pushing boundaries, The Judge The Juror is rapidly solidifying their place as one of Western Canada’s most innovative metal experimenters.

The Judge The Juror Lineup:
David W Frontenac – Vocals / Synth / Programming
Scotty Oakes – Guitar
Merrick Fenton – Bass
Nick Burpee – Drums

-30-

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

Page 29 of 1849

1
…
27
28
29
30
31
…
1,849

Asher Media Relations Tweets

Tweets by AsherMedia

Asher Media Email Subscription

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address:

Join 2,175 other subscribers