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Posts By Asher

0 ROCKSHOTS RECORDS ANNOUNCES NEW COLLABORATION WITH SECRET RULE FOR UPCOMING ALBUM!

  • March 20, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Secret Rule (Rockshots Records)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 21, 2025

ROCKSHOTS RECORDS ANNOUNCES NEW COLLABORATION WITH SECRET RULE FOR UPCOMING ALBUM!

Rockshots Records is proud to announce the signing of SECRET RULE, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the band’s decade-long journey.

With a refreshed lineup and a renewed artistic vision, SECRET RULE is gearing up to unleash its highly anticipated tenth studio album in 2025, slated for release after the summer.

Known for their unique ability to blend symphonic atmospheres with modern metal vibes, SECRET RULE is stepping into a bold new sonic era.
​
The upcoming album will showcase an evolved sound, a powerful fusion of influences, combining the cinematic edge of Within Temptation’s latest works with the raw energy of Falling In Reverse.

From this new chapter, fans can expect a dynamic, high-energy sound, enriched with the band’s signature melodies and anthemic choruses.
​
With a fresh lineup, SECRET RULE continues to push boundaries, reaffirming its role as a driving force in modern metal.

The album explores themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the battle against inner and external struggles, delivering an intense and immersive experience.

In the meantime, the band is currently on the road as a supporting act for Temperance and Induction, part of an intense 15-date European tour. SECRET RULE is also set to play some of the most prestigious summer festivals, including Masters Of Rock (Czech Republic), Rock Imperium Festival (Spain), and Laurus Nobilis (Portugal), with more dates and exciting news coming soon!

A brand new single will be unveiled very soon, giving fans a first taste of what’s to come.
​
A new era begins, and we are ready to bring our energy to the stage! 🤘 This March, we hit the road across Europe with Temperance and Induction, and we cannot wait to see you all! Plus, we are beyond excited to play at three incredible festivals this summer: Imperium Rock Festival, Masters of Rock, and Laurus Nobilis.

​
​NEXT SHOWS (supporting TEMPERANCE and INDUCTION)​
​
20.03.25 DE – Bochum / Matrix
21.03.25 BE – Kortrijk / DVG
22.03.25 NL – Drachten / Iduna
23.03.25 DK – Copenhagen / Stengade
​
​SUMMER FESTIVALS:​
​
27.06.25 ES – Imperium Rock Festival
10-13.07.25 CZ – Masters of Rock
20.07.25 PT – Laurus Nobilis

​

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

Website: https://www.secretrule.it​
​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/secretruleband​
​Instagram: https://instagram.com/secret_rule_official​
​Spotify: Stream Now​

-30-

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

0 EPK – ARC – Awaken the Machine (2023)

  • March 20, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · ARC · EPKs

EPK – ARC – Awaken the Machine (2023)

“A complex fusion of organic and synthetic, ARC seamlessly blends the brutality and melody of modern extreme metal with the retro-futuristic synthesized electronica of synth-wave in a total assault upon the senses, capped off by a frenetic stage show comprised of lasers and smoke, blood and sweat, and the furious energy of the band’s will to dominate.” – ARC

For fans of Rammstein, Dark Tranquility, Dance with the Dead, Children of Bodom, Scar Symmetry

Instagram.com/arc.evolves | Facebook.com/Arcevolves | Soundcloud.com/arcevolves | Youtube.com/@ARC-Official

Arc-evolves.bandcamp.com | Spotify

Band: ARC
EP: Awaken the Machine
Release Date: November 15, 2023
Label: Self-Release
Dist: Distrokid
Track Listing:
1 – Dark Road – (3:44)
2 – Ghost Lights – (4:22)
3 – Magnitudes  – (4:08)
4 – Shadow Life – (5:55)
5 – Kingdom for my Corpse – (4:25)
6 – The Deep End – (3:43)
Album Length: 26:19
Album Credits:
All songs Performed by: ARC
All Songs Wirtten by: Sonny Angell
Mixed By: Ray Marte (Westfall Studios, Amityville NY)
Mastered by: Ray Marte (Westfall Studios, Amityville NY)
EP Artwork by: Sonny Angell
Album Lineup:
Guitars – James King
Drums – Revrynt
Bass – Alex Torke
Vocals – Chad Sutton
Synths – Sonny Angell

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

About The Album Artwork:

A literal representation of our sound, theme and feeling. We are human on stage created from machines to combine man, machine and light, organic and synthetic.

About The Album (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

Awaken the Machine is based on the mind and how a human can process experiences. Some songs explain occurrences of the deep psyche, id, ego, and superego reactions.

Track by Track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

1. DARK ROAD – An exaggerated story of overcoming insecurities

2. GHOST LIGHTS – Inspiration follows you, Ghost Lights explains that if you do not give up you will succeed

3. MAGNITUDES – The part of your brain that shuts everything off so you can conquer anything. Robotizing your human aspects and pushing through life as a mindless machine so you can win.

4. SHADOW LIFE – A take on perceptions of precognitive thoughts and true life expectations of your past, looking into the future.

5. KINGDOM FOR MY CORPSE – Manifesting negativity from someone or something else to destroy it and yourself.

6. THE DEEP END – A story about making poor choices and the consequences of those choices.

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

FUN FACT:

ARC is ambiguously mysterious, ARC is energy and machines. Human interpretations are on stage playing the music, however, ARC is all around us. Information being transmitted from.. Somewhere in parts of your brain, you didn’t know you had.

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

L to R – James King (Guitars), Alex Torke (Bass), Chad Sutton (Vocals), Revrynt (Drums), Sonny Angell (Synths)

Not  “human” we are ever-changing swarms of electronic information that “send transmissions” to earth from the dataverse. 

Such are the words from ARC, a progressive, thought-provoking, shape-shifting musical collective formed out of the ether that permeates New York. ARC is many things at once, which automatically subjects the band to the journalistic and fan guessing game/rite of passage as to what style they actually are.

While the metal scene seems mired in stagnation and the never-ending race to be more brutal or more technical or more dissonant, ARC shines with progress and out-of-the-box thinking and a seamless blend of the nostalgia of synthwave with the complexity of extreme metal. They are a message, a transmission, weaving an intricate narrative through multimedia and redefining the concept of a truly immersive entertainment experience. ARC is a powerwave of expression, weaponizing music and stage show performance, leaving the audience both dizzied and delighted, through complex and fully custom, mechanisms.

The signal that is ARC is fluid and ever-evolving. Like AI that learns and adapts, ARC adapted to a rapidly changing world during the onset of a global pandemic. Rather than resigning to the tidal wave of tour cancellations, ARC punished forward, recording new material and continuing to expand the band’s quest to push the limitations of genre and sound. The eclectic band from New York is more than ready to engage with avant-garde metal fans worldwide and release their debut opus. 

Their nine tracks masterfully span a wide range from dark electronica to progressive-experimental metal, while keeping their wild roaming within the boundaries of the band’s unique and bizarre sonic universe. Yet, ARC manages to harness their bold mix into recognizable structures and meaningful songs throughout that do not shy away from catchiness and, quite importantly, do not fall into the trap of being weird just for the sake of experimentation. 

Like an electric current, ARC refuses to be contained and will charge throughout the metal community. Eagerly awaiting the return of live shows, the band has made a mission to take fans on a journey through music, video, and AR-integrated performances. The underlying aggression may be human or perhaps the philosophical glance towards spiritual growth. In the end, ARC is here and will tell the tale of humanity’s highest aspirations and utter ruin through the sonic Interzone where fact, science, and speculation collide.

Discography:
2023 – Awaken the Machine – LP
2022 – Dark Mirrors – LP

Shared Stage with: Prong, Master Boot Record, Immortal Guardian, Powerglove, Visions of Atlantis

Movie Music Placement: Straw Rafts – Indie Movie

0 Thank you Canadian MDs and DJs !earshot – February 2025 – top 200 #190 CHÜZO

  • March 19, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · CHUZO

Thank you Canadian MDs and DJs
!earshot – February 2025 – top 200
#190 CHÜZO
https://earshot-online.com/charts/2025/February/top200.cfm#1

0 Thank You Canadian MDs and DJs for the airplay love! \m/\m/ CJSW Radio 90.9 FM – Loud Top 10 #2 phear, #7 Tigguocobauc Exitus Stratagem Records, #9 UTILITY PROVIDER, #10 MUTANK Boonsdale Records | 92.5 FM CFBX “the X” – Loud – Top 10 #1 SweetBeast, #9 Forsaken Rite | Smithers Community Radio CICK 93.9 – Top 30 #10 CHÜZO | CJSW Radio 90.9 FM – Top 30 #17 phear | 92.5 FM CFBX “the X” – Top 30 #23 SweetBeast

  • March 19, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · CHUZO · Forsaken Rite · MUTANK · PHEAR · SweetBeast · Tigguo Cobauc (Exitus Stratagem Records) · Utility Provider

Thank You Canadian MDs and DJs for the airplay love! \m/\m/

CJSW Radio 90.9 FM – Loud Top 10
#2 phear, #7 Tigguocobauc Exitus Stratagem Records, #9 UTILITY PROVIDER, #10 MUTANK Boonsdale Records
https://earshot-online.com/charts/cjsw.cfm?intChartTypeID=6&dWeekOfID=2025-03-18
===================
92.5 FM CFBX “the X” – Loud – Top 10
#1 SweetBeast, #9 Forsaken Rite
https://earshot-online.com/charts/cfbx.cfm?intChartTypeID=6&dWeekOfID=2025-03-18
===================
Smithers Community Radio CICK 93.9 – Top 30
#10 CHÜZO
https://earshot-online.com/charts/cick.cfm?intChartTypeID=1&dWeekOfID=2025-03-18
===================
CJSW Radio 90.9 FM – Top 30
#17 phear
https://earshot-online.com/charts/cjsw.cfm?dWeekOfID=2025-03-18
===================
92.5 FM CFBX “the X” – Top 30
#23 SweetBeast
https://earshot-online.com/charts/cfbx.cfm?intChartTypeID=1&dWeekOfID=2025-03-18

0 THE FINAL RIDE – ​The Electric Highway Festival (Calgary, AB) 2025 Goes Out With Cosmic Bang! w/ BISON, CASTLE, LA CHINGA, BUFFALO BUD BUSTER and more!

  • March 18, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · The Electric Highway Festival

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 18, 2025

​THE FINAL RIDE – ​The Electric Highway Festival (Calgary, AB) 2025 Goes Out With Cosmic Bang!

w/ BISON, CASTLE, LA CHINGA, BUFFALO BUD BUSTER and more!

April 4 & 5 – Dickens Pub

#TheFinalRide #ElectricHighway2025 #OneLastTime #CalgaryMusic #SupportLiveMusic #HeavyRock #MakeItEpic

The Electric Highway 2025 Lineup Spotify Playlist – https://spotf.fi/ZQXtQay​

After nearly a decade of bringing incredible music, art, and community together, The Electric Highway Festival (formerly the 420 Music & Arts Festival) is hitting the road one last time. Due to ongoing health challenges for their curators, they’ve made the difficult decision that 2025 will be the FINAL edition of the festival.

From its roots as the 420 Music & Arts Festival, which first lit up Calgary in 2017, to the evolution into The Electric Highway, we’ve been privileged to host some of the best heavy rock, doom, and psychedelic bands from across North America. From Wo Fat to Crobot, Dopethrone to Sasquatch, we’ve hosted legends and launched careers. This festival has always been about passion, music, and unforgettable experiences, and we’re determined to go out with a Cosmic Bang!

THE FINAL LINEUP IS HERE TO IGNITE!

Join EHF in 2025 for a mind-blowing sendoff featuring headliners Canadian veteran sludge metal band BISON and doom metal band CASTLE. They will be joined by Southern California band FEVER DOG, and various Western Canadian bands including LA CHINGA, BUFFALO BUD BUSTER, THE GETMINES, 88 MILE TRIP, and more.

This is your LAST CHANCE to be part of the Electric Highway experience – the final ride of a festival that has brought together music lovers, artists, and a community unlike any other. Let’s make this one for the history books!

April 4 & 5, 2025 at Dickens (1000 9 Ave SW), Calgary AB.

Get your tickets, gather your crew, and come celebrate with us one last time – let’s make memories that will last forever!

Advance 2-day passes are available for $75. Advance single-day tickets are $40 for Friday and $45 for Saturday

Festival passes and single-day tickets are available at www.theelectrichighway.ca/festivalstore/​

Event info: https://www.facebook.com/events/1149647296782460/​

​The Final Full Line Up by Day:​
​
​Friday, April 4, 2025​
Castle (San Francisco/ Vancouver)
Buffalo Bud Buster (Calgary)
Blacksmith and Brewer (Vancouver))
CHÛNK (Vancouver)
Hydracat (Edmonton)
The Astral Prophets (Calgary)
BUNS (Calgary)
Doors 5pm – Show 6pm
​
​Saturday, April 5, 2025​
Bison (Vancouver)
La Chinga (Vancouver)
Fever Dog (Southern California)
The Getmines (Vancouver)
88 Mile Trip (Vancouver)
Lover (Calgary)
GEOFF (Calgary)
Doors 5pm – Show 6pm

The Electric Highway Festival hosts various genres that range from Desert Rock, Stoner Metal, Doom, Sludge, Trippy Psychedelic, Surf Rock, Acid Rock, Noise Rock, Fuzz Rock, Space Rock, Blues Rock, Heavy Psych, Heavy Blues, Southern Rock, Fuzzy Punk, Sludgy Hardcore bands and variations of any of the previously mentioned styles. The festival includes a vendor area with interesting goods for attendees to take home with them.

Previous editions of the festival featured one of the event’s past favorites Californian headliners Sasquatch, Juno Award-winning Canadian band ANCIIENTS, Vancouver’s La Chinga, Space Queen, Dead Quiet, and more, Gnarwhal from Yellowknife, NWT, Calgary’s Gone Cosmic, Hombre, Flashback among many more, and a whole host of other great bands.

Live Video by SlimBzTV – ANCIIENTS at EHF 2024 – Following the Voice – https://youtu.be/v9ETpkVSASA​

Live Video by SlimBzTV – Dead Quiet at EHF 2024 – Atoned Deaf – https://youtu.be/GDJB0RAZpC8​

Live Video by SlimBzTv – La Chinga at EHF 2023 – Beyond The Sky – https://youtu.be/P741nkfJU7w​​
​
​For more info:

Website: TheElectricHighway.ca​

Facebook: Facebook.com/ElectricHighwayFestival​

Instagram: Instagram.com/TheElectricHighway​

X: X.com/TheElectricHwy​
​
​
Hashtag #BuckleUp #EHF2025

Festival Press Materials Dropbox Here​

Business Partners/Sponsors:
Asher Media Relations
Athena Bookkeeping Services Inc.
Black Collar Manufacturing
Calgary Metal Scene Events
The Celestial Agency
Dickens
High Voltage TV
Loud as Hell Festival
METALHEADS UNITED
New Level Brewing
SlimBz TV

Travel and Tourism Partners:
Tourism Calgary
Travel Alberta

Media Partners:
Absolute Underground
Broken Neck Radio
CJSR 88.5 FM
CJSW 90.9 FM
Doomed and Stoned
Ghost Cult Magazine
The Obelisk
Outlaws of the Sun
Exclaim!
Metal-Rules
Bravewords
V13

Business partnerships and sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact theelectrichighwayfestival[@]gmail[.]com for more information.

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

0 Rockshots Records – Italian Folk Metal AEXYLIUM Unveils Powerful Single For Title Track Off Upcoming Third Album “Myth Of Mankind” Out May 2025

  • March 18, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Aexylium (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 18, 2025

Italian Folk Metal AEXYLIUM Unveils Powerful Single For Title Track Off Upcoming Third Album “Myth Of Mankind” Out May 2025

Aexylium returns with “Myth of Mankind,” the electrifying title track from their highly anticipated third album, which will be released on May 23rd, 2025, from Rockshots Records. This song represents a defining moment for the Italian folk metal band, encapsulating their evolution with a dynamic blend of immersive orchestrations, technical riffs, and anthemic melodies.

Merging the intensity of modern metal with the evocative power of folk instrumentation, Aexylium crafts a unique and amazing sound. “Myth of Mankind” perfectly exemplifies this fusion—combining epic arrangements, intricate guitar work, and the striking vocal interplay between frontman Sam Biganzoli and Arianna Bellinaso. The result is a track as cinematic as it is heavy, offering a fresh and modern take on folk metal while staying true to its melodic roots.

For fans of Eluveitie, Korpiklaani, Amorphis, Folkstone, Alestorm, and Mago de Oz, this single is a must-listen. “Myth of Mankind” is not just a song—it’s a statement, showcasing Aexyllium at its most powerful and refined stage. The front cover has been designed by Gustavo Sazes (Angra, Soilwork, Dynazty, Epica). ​
​
​LISTEN: https://lnk.to/XApTSY​
​VIDEO: https://youtu.be/Qv5361WI5Q0​
​ALBUM PRE-ORDER (Release Date May 23, 2025): https://lnk.to/koGz58

​

Track Listing:​
1 – Fontes et Omnia
2 – The Queen
3 – Hexe
4 – Into Oblivion
5 – In Sorrow
6 – Myth of Mankind
7 – Eclissi
8 – Wild Hunt
9 – Surrender
10 – Northern Lights
11 – Eternity
​
​BAND LINEUP​
SAM BIGANZOLI – Vocals
ARIANNA BELLINASO – Vocals
FABIO BUZZAGO – Guitar
LUCA PERRONE – Guitar
GABRIELE CACOCCIOLA – Bass
ALBERTO MEZZANOTTE – Drums
FEDERICO BONOLDI – Violin
LEANDRO PESSINA – Flute
STEFANO COLOMBO – Keyboards
​
​ALBUM CREDITS:​
Main Music Composer: Fabio Buzzago
Lyrics: Fabio Buzzago, Gabriele Cacocciola, Samuele Biganzoli
Orchestrations: Fabio Buzzago, Stefano Colombo
Production: Davide Tavecchia, Buzzago Fabio, Stefano Colombo, Alberto Bernasconi
Recording, Mixing, Mastering: Davide Tavecchia (Twilight Studio)
Graphics: Gustavo Sazes

ABOUT:

Aexylium was formed in 2014 in Italy, merging the distinctive sound of traditional instruments with the modern intensity of metal.

The band has performed at many renowned European festivals including Dong Open Air, Tanzt!, Mead & Greed, Montelago Celtic Festival, Malpaga Folk & Metal, Druidia, and more. During these events, Aexylium shared the stage with several notable bands such as Blind Guardian, Elvenking, Wind Rose, Týr, Vision Divine, Furor Gallico, Temperance, and others.

Their debut album, ‘Tales From This Land’ (2018), was released through Underground Symphony Records. It was recorded at Twilight Studio by Davide Tavecchia and mastered by Simone Mularoni (Elvenking, DGM, Secret Sphere, etc).

In 2021, Aexylium signed a deal with Rockshots Records for their second album, ‘The Fifth Season’. The album was recorded at Twilight Studio with the artwork designed by Jan Yrlund of Darkgrove Design (Testament, Manowar, Korpiklaani). To date, the band has released six music videos as singles.

Compared to the last studio album, the band has welcomed Alberto Mezzanotte (drums), Luca Perrone (Guitar), and the frontman Sam Biganzoli into its lineup.

Aexylium’s partners include Solar Guitars, Footblaster, Liuteria Cocopelli, and Firebird Strumenti Musicali.

AexyliumLine Up:​
​Sam Biganzoli: vocals
​Arianna Bellinaso: vocals
​Gabriele Cacocciola: bass
​Federico Bonoldi: violin
​Alberto Mezzanotte: drums
​Fabio Buzzago: guitars
​Luca Perrone: guitars
​Leandro Pessina: flute
​Stefano Colombo: keyboards

More info: ​
​https://www.rockshots.eu​
​
​FOLLOW:​
​https://www.instagram.com/aexylium_official​
​https://www.facebook.com/aexylium​
​

-30-

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

0 LOUD AS HELL Open Air Festival Announces 2025 Lineup w/ REVOCATION, FIRST FRAGMENT, FILTH, INSURRECTION, GORGATRON, OPAL IN SKY and more!

  • March 17, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Loud As Hell Festival · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 17, 2025

LOUD AS HELL Open Air Festival Announces 2025 Lineup

w/ REVOCATION, FIRST FRAGMENT, FILTH, INSURRECTION, GORGATRON, OPAL IN SKY, GORE PIG and more!

August 1st – 3rd – Camping & Extreme Music In Alberta’s Badlands – Drumheller, AB

Hashtags #LAHXIII, #LAHOA, #LAHOA2025

LAH 2025 Lineup Spotify Playlist – https://spoti.fi/3XT8IUw

From the barren expanse of sculpted sandstone, wind-carved hoodoos, and the vast canyons of Alberta, Canada’s badlands, one of the country’s loudest decibel-breaking extreme music events, LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR FESTIVAL announces its 2025 lineup with REVOCATION, FIRST FRAGMENT, FILTH, INSURRECTION, GORGATRON, OPAL IN SKY and more!

Hosted in Drumheller, AB from August 1st to 3rd at the Dinosaurs Down Stampede, LAH showcases the best up-and-coming Canadian and international talent to roar through the country’s largest dinosaur fossil grounds.

This year’s 13th annual festivities will witness technical death metal masters Revocation headline the Sunday, August 3rd lineup. The band unveiled their latest 2025 single and music video “Confines of Infinity,” featuring brutal guest vocals from Cattle Decapitation’s Travis Ryan. The single also marks the debut of a new Revocation lineup that sees vocalist and guitarist Dave Davidson joined by drummer Ash Pearson–who has been in the band since 2015–bassist Alex Weber and guitarist Harry Lannon. Revocation formed in 2006, and their self-released debut, Empire of the Obscene, came out in 2008. Since then, they’ve released seven critically acclaimed albums and have toured the world, bringing their technically charged, high-energy extreme metal to rabid fans in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Music Video – Confines of Infinity (ft. Travis Ryan of Cattle Decapitation) – https://youtu.be/h6Nez7ikOm4

​Also on the Sunday lineup will be Insurrection, the powerhouse metal band from Gatineau, Quebec, Canada. Formed over 20 years ago (2003), the band is known for its intense and energetic performances. Their sound is a unique twist of groovy death metal mixed with a healthy dose of thrash energy. The band has released several albums, including “Prologue” (2008), “Fracture” (2010), “Prototype” (2013), “Extraction” (2017), and “Obsolescence” (2024) (Bam Co. Heavy). Their music often addresses social and political themes through bilingual lyrics in both English and French. The band has gained a notable reputation on stage throughout Canada with tours covering coast to coast, including performances at festivals such as Montebello Rockfest, Trois-Rivières Metalfest, and Decimate Metalfest. Music Video – The Gathering – https://youtu.be/OloWe37IY04

​Headlining Saturday, Aug 2nd, Montreal, QC’s First Fragment will display their virtuosity and demonstrate why they are so beloved globally for their Neoclassical/Technical Extreme Metal. The band broke ground with their debut EP “The Afterthought Ecstasy” (2010). Their latest two albums “Dasein” (2016), “Gloire éternelle(2021), and the latest instrumental compilation record “Le Recueuil Des Âges” (2024) have been released on Unique Leader Records. Music Video – Pantheum – https://youtu.be/4mU_qLoa3Ds

Saturday will also feature LAH alumni Gorgatron, guttural Death Metal out of Fargo, North Dakota. Their sound is based on a “love of the riff” approach to writing and is rooted in the old-school stylings of Death Metal and Thrash. They have honed their style and work ethic with rigorous DIY tours across the States, Europe, Canada, and Mexico. They have a slew of records under their belts with their latest “Sentience Revoked” (2024) (Redefining Darkness Records) and just this past January they unleashed a digital EP “Live From the Basement”. It was originally set to be released on Adult Swim’s ‘Fish Center Live’ in 2020, but was shelved due to Adult Swim shutting down their livestream division that same year. Music Video – Absorbency – https://youtu.be/oZ_0uqAh5fc

​The festival’s first day on Friday, Aug 1st will be headlined by hip-hop-influenced deathcore gutter gang Filth out of North Carolina. They dropped the next chapter in their discography, Southern Hostility, in April 2024. Music Video – Opp Stoppers – https://youtu.be/DUl3DPXdCBY

​Also on Friday are Vancouver, BC’s Opal in Sky, twin brothers Tyson and Dylon Opalinsky. They share a deep passion for music and its limitless possibilities. Their music reflects their shared values and beliefs. They believe that music has the power to heal, uplift, and bring people together. They are committed to creating meaningful and enjoyable music, and their unique sound is a fusion of different styles and influences. They released their debut album, “Dream Shift,” in July 2024. Music Video – Those Who Wait – https://youtu.be/w6KmSMB2zGs

​With a lineup featuring over 40 bands from across Canada, the USA, and Mexico, traveling the furthest from Europe is Vienna, Austria’s Hog Meets Frog, a band fans don’t want to miss. The trio is renowned for their eccentricity and boundary-pushing music that blends prog, funk, and metal. Claymation Video – of snakes ‘n’ moles ‘n’ bulls ‘n’ dough – https://youtu.be/-ijNMjMDk6M

​Other highlights for this year’s open-air are Toronto’s Beguiler, champions of last year’s 2024 Wacken Metal Battle Canada; the slamming deathcore of Arizona’s Gore Pig; Mexico’s Spit On Your Grave, showcasing their powerful, deep growls, blast beats, slam riffs, and heavy breakdowns, all infused with a melodic touch; and Vancouver’s Thirteen Goats, with their signature blend of infernal riffs, huge hooks, and uniquely theatrical songwriting.

Weekend Passes (Aug 1- 3) are available at https://loudashell.ca/shop/​

This weekend pass grants you full access to all the headbanging, moshing, and metal mayhem that Loud As Hell Open Air offers.

LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR 2025

Thursday, July 31 – Kick Off Party
​
Vapor (California, USA)
Display Of Decay (Edmonton, AB)
Black Pestilence (Calgary, AB)
Decrepitation (Edmonton, AB)
​
​Friday, August 1​
Filth (Shelby, NC, USA)
Auzzy Blood – Freak Show (Las Vegas, NV, USA)
Opal In Sky (Vancouver, BC)
Hazzardous Material – Burlesque (Alberta)
Spit On Your Grave (Monterrey, Mexico)
Hazzerd (Calgary, AB)
Ascension Blacklist (Newburgh, ON)
Black Friday (Edmonton, AB)
Daniel Martin’s The Infamous (Edmonton, AB)
​
​Saturday, August 2​
First Fragment (Montreal, QC)
Kyle Pullan – Acoustic (Canmore, AB)
Gorgatron (Fargo, ND, USA)
Hazzardous Material – Burlesque (Alberta)
Heartsick (Lansing, MI, USA)
Judicator (Salt Lake City, UT, USA)
Casket Robbery (Munroe, WI, USA)
Kelevra (Regina, SK)
Lycanthro (Ottawa, ON)
Frontal Assault (Cedar Rapids, IA, USA)
Cabrakaan (Calgary, AB)
Spectre (Winnipeg, MB)
Pridelands (Red Deer, AB)
Pharm (Kelowna, BC)
Beserker (Lethbridge, AB)
​
​Sunday, August 3​
Revocation (Boston, MA, USA)
Kyle Pullan – Acoustic (Canmore, AB)
Insurrection (Gatineau, QC)
Auzzy Blood – Freak Show (Las Vegas, NV, USA)
Gorepig (Hot Springs, AZ, USA)
Hazzardous Material – Burlesque (Alberta)
Cyborg Octopus (San Francisco, CA, USA)
Squidhammer (Waterton, WI, USA)
Truent (Vancouver, BC)
Beguiler (Toronto, ON)
Reaping Asmodeia (Minneapolis, MN, USA)
Endless Chaos (Winnipeg, MB)
Hog Meets Frog (Vienna, Austria)
Thirteen Goats (Vancouver, BC)
Woodhawk (Calgary, AB)
Famous Strangers (Edmonton, AB)

Since its inception in 2012, LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR FESTIVAL has exposed hundreds of Canadian and international bands annually except for 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Their 2024 edition was host to the most stacked lineup to date featuring BEYOND CREATION, STRIKER, ANCIIENTS, GREEN JELLY, THE CONVALESCENCE, SUPER MONSTER PARTY, TERRIFIER, and lots more. Previous years have witnessed well-known bands such as Jungle Rot, Narcotic Wasteland, Necronomicon, Into Eternity, Goatwhore, Battlecross, Fit for An Autopsy, Anciients, Archspire, Unleash The Archers, Striker, KEN mode, Obey The Brave, Protest the Hero, AngelMaker, Divinity, Neck of The Woods, Endast among many more.

Live LAH 2024 – Anciients – Despoiled – https://youtu.be/-E440Gax4ao​

Live LAH 2024 – Terrifier – Depths Of The Storm Scepter – https://youtu.be/ZEm4ncOlbH4​

Live LAH 2023 – Narcotic Wasteland – Sex, Lies and DNA – https://youtu.be/q-AraxYaEfA‪

Live LAH 2023 – Jungle Rot – A Call To Arms – https://youtu.be/b5GCaJ–lZo​

More info:
​
LoudAsHell.ca​
​Facebook.com/LoudAsHellFestival​
Twitter: @LoudAsHellFest
Instagram: @LoudAsHellFestival
​Social Media Hashtags #LAHXIII, #LAHOA, #LAHOA2025

Festival Press Materials – Posters, Band Links, EPKs, Photos – HERE.​

About:

LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR FESTIVAL has hosted hundreds of Canadian and international bands annually since 2012 with the exception of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During its decade of showcasing Canadian and international bands, the festival has grown into a pilgrimage for metalheads from across the country.

LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR FESTIVAL 2025 will be celebrating its thirteenth festival event presented by Loud As Hell Productions, Jurassic Ink Custom Tattoo, Prairie Fire Events, and Asher Media Relations. LAH always works its hardest to deliver the best lineup in the West ready to melt your face off. Featuring bands from across Canada and beyond, you won’t want to miss any of it. And don’t forget about their freak shows, burlesque dancers, clinics, vendors, and dinosaurs!

LAH Partners:​
WCMFA – Western Canadian Metal Festival Alliance
Asher Media Relations
Bravewords
Metal-Rules
Absolute Underground Mag
Ghost Cult Magazine
This Day In Metal
Valley Brewing
Canalta Hotels
Neighbors’ Corner Pub
Prairie Fire Productions Ltd
Big Nate Productions
Trash Talk with Nate Trash
Slimbztv
High Voltage TV
Seeing Red Podcast
Through The Looking Glass Photography
PMC – Positive Mindset Creations
Heavy Metal A Way Of Life
QMR (Queen Metal Radio)
Unity X Radio

– 30 –

What the press is saying:

“Located an hour and a half east of Calgary is the town of Drumheller, Alberta. With a population in the neighborhood of 8000 and existing smack dab in the middle of Canada’s desert and dinosaur country, it’s not a place one would immediately associate with any sort of metal scene, let alone a big-ass outdoor metal fest. But that’s where you’d be wrong. Going into its 11th year, the Loud as Hell Festival is set to roll on August 4-6th with the likes of Narcotic Wasteland, Jungle Rot and Incite headlining three days of metallic fun featuring 40 or so bands, including The Convalescence, Gorgatron, Necronomicon, Untimely Demise, Eyes of Perdition and more.” – Decibel Magazine

“Western Canada’s loudest heavy metal festival brings fans to town more known for dinos than drum solos.” – CBC Calgary

“What’s more metal than the badlands? Drumheller, AB, is known for being the dinosaur capital of the world — but it’s also the home of the Loud as Hell festival, an event celebrating none other than the loudest music known to man (and, by proxy, prehistoric reptile).” – Exclaim!

“Loud as Hell – one of Canada’s top underground metal festivals – was a metal family reunion. If you walked around the grounds, where tents covered the landscape like flowers, you would experience concert goers laughing, hugging and just enjoying the moment. The music played non-stop and the people were some of the best you’ll meet. What else do you need? If you’re a metalhead fan, mark it down for next year because this is a concert you don’t want to miss.” – Blackfalds Life

“Headbanger alert: Loud As Hell festival to ramp up the volume” – Calgary Herald

“Nevermind the bug spray and sun tan lotion, as August approaches Drumheller residents should stock up on earplugs.” – Calgary Herald

“Loud As Hell returns to the southern Alberta city for its seventh year and as its name implies, will rock the city to its core.” – Calgary Herald

“Loud as Hell has celebrated eight years in the Badlands to date, with acts from all over the world-shattering the peace and quiet of the hills in a camping and music extravaganza.” – Hanna Herald

“Drumheller with its dinosaur bones is the site of the annual Loud as Hell heavy metal festival Friday through Sunday. Dozens of the heaviest bands known to Man will be taking the stage, many of them Canadian” – Gig City​
—

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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

0 SIEGE PERILOUS Launches Kickstarter For Concept Album “Becoming the Dragon” ft. Guests Fabio Lione and Kristin Starkey

  • March 17, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Siege Perilous

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 17, 2025

SIEGE PERILOUS Launches Kickstarter For Concept Album “Becoming the Dragon” ft. Guests Fabio Lione and Kristin Starkey

A narrative-driven punch of epic fantasy power metal featuring incredible guests like Fabio Lione and Kristin Starkey!

L-R – Eric Fischer (Bass) | Mark Girard (Drums) | Shaughnessy McDaniel (Vocals) | Scott Hancock (Guitar) | Cody Martinez (Guitar)

Photo Credit: Underhill Imagery

Unveiling their monumental musical odyssey and EP “Creation’s Call” in August 2024, Denver’s fantasy power metal warriors Siege Perilous unveil plans for their first full-length album.

Entitled “Becoming the Dragon,” the album is the band’s biggest and most ambitious work yet—a cinematic, narrative journey set in a world of warriors, dragons, and destiny. To help Siege Perilous unleash this epic power metal story, the band enlisted two of the most epic voices in the genre: Fabio Lione (Angra, ex-Rhapsody of Fire), a legendary power metal voice, and Kristin Starkey (Twilight Force, Temperance), the powerful contralto who brings her operatic touch to the tale.

A single narrative power metal opera from start to finish, “Becoming the Dragon” is centered around the Child of Prophecy, the hero who slays the dragon, played by Fabio Lione, but then comes to question whether he is truly a hero or simply a pawn of an ancient prophecy. After a journey of self-discovery that takes him across a vast fantasy world he, aided by the mystic Sorceress (Kristin Starkey), takes on the forces of destiny itself to forge a new future.

To bring this concept record to life, Siege Perilous is using Kickstarter and, once again, enlisting the help of power metal fans.

Vocalist Shaughnessy McDaniel comments:

“After the incredible reception we received for ‘Creation’s Call’, we couldn’t wait to bring people what they had been asking for, a full-length album. We are so excited and blown away that we get to work with the legendary Fabio Lione and the absurdly talented Kristin Starkey to bring this fun yet meaningful fantasy story to life, and Kickstarter is such a great way to help an up-and-coming band like Siege Perilous maximize this opportunity. The dream for this album is big! And while we are self-funding about half of it, we need some help to bring this full epic vision to life and to reach its full potential. Heroes of power! Warriors of metal! Keepers of the flame! Join us on an epic quest!”

Check out the exclusive rewards you can receive with your Kickstarter pledges, from Vinyl to classic rewards like CDs, t-shirts, and stickers to a few fun experiences by Siege Perilous.

“If you’ve ever wanted a power metal anthem written about your DnD Campaign, a favorite fantasy story, or a historical epic, now is your opportunity to bring those stories to life with a custom hand-crafted power metal track. This and many other cool rewards can be yours and 100% of the profits from this campaign will go into the production and promotion of “Becoming the Dragon.” We have many stretch goals including enhancing our vinyl, filming great music videos, and more! Thank you for contributing and helping us summon this fantasy into being. Share the campaign, spread the word and together we will continue to keep the dream of heavy metal burning bright!” adds McDaniel.

Siege Perilous Kickstarter “Becoming the Dragon” link at https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/siegeperilous/siege-perilous-becoming-the-dragon-lp-feat-fabio-lione​

“Becoming the Dragon” Kickstarter Video – https://youtu.be/np-USBmbzpk

​

“Becoming the Dragon” Artwork by Leighton Buxman

More info: Siegemetal.com | Facebook.com/siegeband | Instagram.com/siegeperilousmetal | Tiktok.com/@siegemetal​

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“It gives me great pleasure to tell you that Creation’s Call is a blast. Siege Perilous has succeeded in creating what I would call Epic Power Metal for the Working Man. They don’t waste your time with overlong symphonic interludes between tracks, melodramatic narration, or overproduction that tests the limits of your sanity. The band gets right to the point and pulls you into their epic tales of heroic daring immediately. This is a nice breath of fresh air and if this EP is anything to go by, Siege Perilous has a great future ahead of them. Yes, this could be considered power metal but the no-nonsense approach and urgency to the songwriting makes this release absolutely worth checking out for those of us in the NWOTHM scene. Plus, it’s really just a lot of fun. This one is highly recommended. THENWOTHM SCORE: 9/10” – The NWOTHM

“‘Creation’s Call’ never gets boring, even on Heavy Rotation. Five gifted musicians have succeeded in creating a varied EP. The twin guitar solos are convincing the whole time. It’s just a shame that it ends after twenty-one minutes. It makes you wish for a full-length album. And, of course, a thrilling live performance. 9.3/10” – Metalheads Forever Magazine​
​
​“solid power metal style that should satiate any LARP-attendees or Dungeons and Dragons mavens. Keep an eye on this quintet – wield thy sword as they lead the battle charge for more quality power metal from the states. 8/10” – Dead Rhetoric

“There are any number of quality bands like Siege Perilous active right now but the style is popular (and I love it) and these guys are as decent as the next similar act. They lean more the Metal side of the equation using the folk and orchestral moments as flavour, not the main style. CREATION’S CALL is a fine effort and I could easily see them on tour with Brothers Of Metal, All For Metal, Fellowship and other costumed Metal heroes. Worth checking out!” 4/5 – Metal Rules​
​
​“Denver metal mob reckon that their goal on “Creation’s Call” was to build a world and tell a story in “three to five minutes.” It’s a world of fantasy, as “Oathsworn” proves, where metal rules and swords are held high. “Across The Rubicon,” however, is delivered with such skill that you can’t resist getting sucked in with them. Shaughnessy McDaniel has a brilliant “metal” voice, roaring on “Sons Of The Verdant,” and guitar duo Scott Hancock and Cody Martinez can knock out a NWOBHM riff like it’s 1982, as the title song underlines. “Brothers Of Five” brings the epic one last time, galloping in proper fashion, and it’ll be interesting to see how Siege Perilous develops. This is one hell of an opening statement, mind you. 8.5/10” – Maximum Volume Music​
​
​“Creation’s Call not only highlights Siege Perilous’ dedication to epic storytelling but also emphasises their versatility within the power metal genre. With influences ranging from historical events to high fantasy, this EP offers a rich and varied auditory experience that will captivate fans. Prepare to embark on a grand journey through myth and history as Siege Perilous delivers their latest saga.” – Amplify The Noise​
​
​“Creation’s Call it is a cohesive and well-crafted work, where the combination of rich letters in history and fantasy, with a meticulous musical execution, it makes mandatory, regardless of its short duration. [82%]” – Via Nocturna​
​“Creation’s Call doesn’t get boring even in heavy rotation. Five gifted musicians have created a varied EP. The solos of the twin guitars are convincing across the board. It’s just a shame that it’s over after twenty-one minutes. You want a full-length album. And of course a sweaty live performance. 9.4/10” – Keep On Rocking​
​
​“Colorfully mixed NWOTHM/Epic Heavy/Power Metal elixir that appeals to a broad range of fans between ALESTORM, BATTLEROAR, ETERNAL CHAMPION, GATEKEEPER, IRON MAIDEN, RUNNING WILD and WRATHBLADE. Awakens a huge appetite for a full long-play album. On this EP you can clearly see that the band has enormous potential and has already given a great taste of their skills. Conclusion: Strong-looking genretobak that falls out of the usual range! 8,5/10” – FFM-Rock​
​
​““Oathsworn” simply explodes out of the gate. The band ratchets every possible dial up to 11 and charges into battle with an epic statement of intent.” – Nine Circles​
​
​““Brothers Of The Five” offers classic power metal as you would appreciate it. The strain on the neck muscles is correspondingly high and in some places the number cannot deny a slight Maiden stable smell.” – Hellfire Magazin

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

0 Toronto Prog DEREV Kick-Off Tour Dates (ON/QC) In Support of Debut Album “Troubled Mind” Out March 26th

  • March 14, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Derev · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 14, 2025

Toronto Prog DEREV Kick-Off Tour Dates (ON/QC) In Support of Debut Album “Troubled Mind” Out March 26th

+ New Video “Tides of Time”

L-R: Armando Bablanian (Guitar) | Stan Komarovsky (Bass) | Michel Karakach (Drums) | Mike Symons (Vocals) | Ran Zehavi (Keys)

Photo Credit – Jon Blacker

Set to release their first full-length “Troubled Mind” at the end of March 2025, Toronto prog Derev is kicking off their first leg of tour dates for 2025 across Ontario and Quebec.

DEREV – Troubled Mind ON/ QC Tour​
March 15 – Barrie, ON – The Queens w/ Kill/Death Radio & Cudbear
March 22 – Toronto, ON – The Supermarket w/ Magnavita & St. Doval, and Rod Rodrigues
March 28 – Waterloo, ON – Midnight Run Café w/ Local Goblin
March 29 – Guelph, ON – The Red Papaya w/ Jupiter Hollow, Crown For A King, and Exolithic
April 5 – Montreal, QC – Piranha Bar w/ World On Alert & Vinyl Hero
April 11 – Hamilton, QC – Club Absinthe w/ 8 Banger, Hollow Core, Bad Communication
April 12 – Brantford, ON – Brandi’s Kitchen & Bar w/ Jupiter Hollow & Guests
April 25 – Kingston, ON – The Mansion w/ Mad Wet Sea & Guests

“Troubled Mind” follows Derev’s 2021 debut EP “Leap of Faith”. Derev was conceived after founding member, and drummer Michel Karakach, after fleeing the war in the Middle East and finding refuge in Toronto, Canada, reunited with his best friend, guitarist Armando Bablanian to turn what was once a mere childhood dream into now a powerful reality.

“Troubled Mind” builds on the foundation laid in Derev’s first release, offering a diverse range of sounds from mellow, calm tracks to adrenaline-pumping heavy headbangers, while maintaining their distinctive progressive rock sound, enriched with Middle Eastern influences. Incorporating more prominent keyboard parts, experimenting with various time signatures, and introducing new instruments such as the Cajon, Darbuka, and electronic elements. This evolution showcases the band’s innovative spirit and commitment to pushing musical boundaries.

“While our debut EP tackled broad themes like war, technology, and injustice in the world, Troubled Mind shifts focus to the personal realm. We wanted to explore and articulate various mental states, the subtle thoughts, and inner dialogues that when nurtured and fed over time, makes us who we are. And while we offer some kind of resolution in a few tracks, the purpose of the album is to explore and highlight these different states of mind, rather than try to resolve them.” adds the band.

Derev‘s dynamic lineup now includes bassist Stan Komarovsky, providing the backbone of Derev‘s sound, and keyboardist Ran Zehavi from the progressive rock band Scalar, adding depth and complexity. Leading the live charge is frontman and vocalist Mike Symons to replace previous singer Adel Saflou who is featured on “Troubled Mind”.

Set for release on March 26, 2025, Derev‘s debut album “Troubled Mind” promises to be an introspective journey, offering listeners a relatable experience with mental health and its struggles. It is recommended for fans of Opeth, Dream Theater, and Porcupine Tree.

Album pre-order at https://www.derevmusic.com/store (Vinyl, CD, Tour Pass)

Singles:

Spotify – https://show.co/XRS9Tlm​

Music Video – “Tides of Time” – https://youtu.be/rklJp_t3CdM

Lyric Video – “Cyclone” – https://youtu.be/1il9zsnxl0U

​Animated Video – “Room 9” – https://youtu.be/ryl-vajc7-M

​
​

Track Listing:​
1. Buried Voice (7:23)
2. Cyclone (5:39)
3. Crawl Space (1:16)
4. Room 9 (6:15)
5. Paracusia (4:35)
6. Tides of Time (5:59)
7. Darker Self (5:44)
8. Trace Within (5:01)
​
​Album Band Line Up:​
Adel Saflou – Vocals
Armando Bablanian – Guitar
Michel Karakach – Drums
Stan Komarovsky – Bass
Ran Zehavi – Keys
​
​Live Band Line Up:​
Mike Symons – Vocals
Armando Bablanian – Guitar
Michel Karakach – Drums
Stan Komarovsky – Bass
Ran Zehavi – Keys

More info: Derevmusic.com | Facebook.com/derevmusic | Instagram.com/derevmusic | X.com/derevmusic​

About: “Divided by war, United by music”

Derev is a progressive rock band captivating global audiences with its innovative blend of progressive rock and traditional Middle Eastern music.

After fleeing the war in the Middle East and finding refuge in Toronto, Canada, founding member, and Drummer Michel Karakach reunited with his best friend, guitarist Armando Bablanian, to turn what was once a mere childhood dream into a powerful reality.

Derev’s debut release “Leap of Faith” melded the raw energy of hard rock with the rich textures of traditional Middle Eastern music they grew up with, offering a fresh perspective on topics often overlooked in modern music. This distinctive sound quickly caught the attention of both local and international audiences, propelling Derev into a series of successful shows across Canada.

The band’s dynamic lineup now includes bassist Stan Komarovsky, providing the backbone of Derev’s sound, and keyboardist Ran Zehavi from the progressive rock band Scalar, adding depth and complexity. Leading the live charge is frontman and vocalist Mike Symons to replace previous singer Adel Saflou who is featured on their forthcoming studio offering “Troubled Mind”. Symons’ compelling presence and vocal prowess complete the live ensemble.

As Derev gears up to release their anticipated second album “Troubled Mind” on March 26th, 2025, they continue to carve out a unique niche in the music world. Their innovative sound promises to captivate new listeners and industry veterans alike. Keep an eye on Derev as they redefine what rock music can be.

Discography:
2025 – Troubled Mind – LP
2021 – Leap of Faith – EP

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“Toronto prog quintet Derev will release their debut full-length album, Troubled Mind, on March 26. The yearning, epic tones of Cyclone is the second single to be taken from the upcoming album, and Derev will be touring throughout Ontario and Quebec over the coming months to support the new album.” – Prog Magazine – Great new prog you must hear… Tracks Of The Week – Cyclone – Feb 21, 2025
​
“The best part of the album (Troubled Mind) is the band’s ability to carry strong emotions into their music. Many of the songs are not complicated, but they are loaded with feelings. I’m not sure I have heard a Progressive album that is this unpretentious and this emotional at the same time. 8/10” Metal-Temple
​
“its eight tracks draws us into a music that combines intensity and peaceful atmospheres of old school prog. The melodies thus highlight many sound universes from one composition to another including beautiful vocal harmonies and important instrumental parts… Derev delivers retro-sounding music with plenty of late 70s and early 80s progressive influences… Troubled Mind, with its instantly relatable melodies, is a resounding success. 4/5” – Prog Critique
​
“For the prog-rock group Derev, this new work continues to carry on its shoulders the burden of the misfortune of living in times of war, which unites two childhood friends: Michel Karakach (battery) and Armando Bablanian (guitar), who after fleeing the war in the Middle East and taking refuge in Toronto (Canadá), meet again through music to reflect on pain, loss and, above all, persistence…. This album represents a profound act of emotional liberation both for its creators and for those who immerse themselves in listening to it.” – Dargedik

“Derev’s sound combines the energy and intensity of metal music with the atmospheric sound of old-school progressive rock, while incorporating elements of their Arabic and Armenian heritage.” – The Prog Space
​
​
—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
Instagram @AsherMedia
Tweet @AsherMedia

0 Canadian Power Thrash PHEAR’s New Lyric Video Reigns In A “New World Error” Off New Album “Save Our Souls” (Produced by Jon Howard (Threat Signal)) Out Now!

  • March 14, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · PHEAR

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 14, 2025

Canadian Power Thrash PHEAR’s New Lyric Video Reigns In A “New World Error”

New Album “Save Our Souls” (Produced by Jon Howard (Threat Signal)) Out Now!

Live Lineup – PHEAR – Alex Zubair – Guitar, Pat Rogers – Guitar, Chris Boshis – Bass Guitar / Backing Vocals, Andrew Suarez – Drums, Patrick Mulock – Vocals

Canadian power thrashers PHEAR have a new lyric video to reign in the “New World Error”. The track is off their second full-length album “Save Our Souls”, which was unleashed this past February from Golden Robot Records.

“New World Error” is a musical and lyrical statement on all the terrible atrocities going on in the world today.

“Humans are sometimes the plague of humanity.” adds the band.

Watch and listen to “New World Error” via its premiere on MetalAddcist HERE. ​

Produced, mixed, and mastered by Jon Howard (Threat Signal), Phear‘s sophomore album “Save Our Souls” can be best described as their heaviest offering to date and follows the award-winning album “Instanitarium” (2019), and the critically acclaimed EP “The Curse Lives On” (2020).

Extremely passionate, and driven, along with their arena-caliber sound, PHEAR is always thinking of new ways to entertain its fans, and “Save Our Souls” is no exception. Mostly written during the dark times of COVID-19, the record has taken four years to complete. Led by Patrick Mulock and producer Jon Howard in the studio, each musician was pushed hard to get the best out of each of them and they delivered.

“We had a lot of time to craft these songs. We didn’t have any time restraints. We would go into the studio and do three songs at a time. We were very excited to work with Jon Howard (Threat Signal) again. Jon is the sixth member of Phear. The studio experience was great as we fed off each other’s ideas. We pushed each other to get the best performances we could. There are NO FILLERS here. Seven String guitars have played a big part in this. Our sound has grown. The bass guitar on this album is HUGE! The drumming from Mike Harshaw was also very aggressive. If you were to ask me now… This is the heaviest Phear has ever been… for now lol!” adds Mulock.

A listening experience of thrash, prog, and classic metal elements, PHEAR offers a strong balance from infectious choruses to melodic and growling vocals for true heavy metal nostalgia. Their two previous singles, the album’s title track and “Snake” are sure to make fans throw up their hail horns and headbang with a sore neck. Plus the band offers up their cover version of Nevermore‘s “Narcosynthesis”.

PHEAR features Patrick Mulock (Lead Vocals) (Eidolon, Rampage), Pat Rogers (Lead & Rhythm Guitars) (Profaner- 2016 Wacken Metal Battle Canada Champions), Alex Zubair (Lead & Rhythm Guitars) (Burn to Black, Nadar Sadek, Iomair, Nephelium), Andrew Suarez (Drums) (Fatality, The Slyde – 2023 Wacken Metal Battle Canada Champions) and Chris Boshis (Bass) (Conflicted).

Throughout their existence, PHEAR has had the honour of opening for German metal legend UDO DIRSCHNEIFER, THE DEAD DAISIES, and STRYPER, along with performing on a pre-show for icons and heroes IRON MAIDEN in 2019 in Toronto at Budweiser Stage.

Recommended for fans of Iron Maiden, Megadeth, Judas Priest, Dream Theater (prog elements), and Metallica, PHEAR‘s latest album “Save Our Souls”, released on February 13th, 2025, is available from Golden Robot Records at the following link (Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon) – https://orcd.co/save-our-souls​

Music Video – Snake – https://youtu.be/zfXS3gVttIQ​

Music Video – Save Our Souls – https://youtu.be/IqiOxTc6MMY​

Track Listing​
1. Aftershock (5:11)
2. Save Our Souls (6:39)
3. Snake (5:26)
4. Narcosynthesis* (5:29) (*Nevermore Cover)
5. New World Error (5:11)
6. Lease on Life (7:02)
7. Bleed (7:57)
8. On Thin Ice (8:20)
9. Delusions (Live) 6:45)
Album Length: 58:03

Album Credits:​
All songs performed by: Phear
All songs written by: Phear
*excluding “Narcosynthesis” Written by Nevermore
Produced by: Jon Howard and Phear
Mixed by: Jon Howard and Phear
Mastered by: Jon Howard (Woodward Avenue Studios)
Album Artwork for “Save Our Souls”: Drake Mefestta
​

Recording Band Line Up:​
Patrick Mulock – Lead Vocals
Chris Boshis – Bass Guitars, Backing Vocals
Alex Zubair – Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar
Pat Rogers – Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar
Mike Harshaw – Drums

Live Band Line Up​
Patrick Mulock – Lead Vocals
Chris Boshis – Bass Guitar, Backing Vocals
Alex Zubair – Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar
Pat Rogers – Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar
Andrew Suarez – Drums

More info:​
​https://phearofficial.com​
​https://www.facebook.com/phearband​
​https://www.instagram.com/spreadthephear​

-30-

“This album has a lot of (gillend) guitar playing, an excellent rhythm section and good vocals. Nice use has been made of the distribution over the headset. Due to the verse-chorus structure, some parts are somewhat predictable. Yet it is quite well put together vocally and instrumentally. The choruses in particular stick pleasantly in your head.” – Maxazine.nl

“Thrashy power metal, just a really cool sound from the get go…. and a cover of Nevermore’s Narcosynthesis to give you a little idea of their vibe.” – MoshPit Radio 89.9 FM – Madison, WI

“Part HM, part Power, with a sprinkling of Metalcore, Prog and Thrash, this is stoopid infectious” – Cult Metal Flix

““The Curse Lives On is a testimonial to what power / thrash metal can do to your soul, deep, dark and loud. just crank it up and feel the Phear.” – Bravewords (2020 – The Curse Lives On)

“PHEAR have so much potential and really reminded of bands like NEVERMORE, EIDOLON and late eighties FATES WARNING. You have a top notch singer and a great backing band, they have a lot of potential that’s for sure. A band to look out for in 2020!” – Metal Temple (2020 – The Curse Lives On)

“With the sonic power of IRON MAIDEN, blended with the classic style of JUDAS PRIEST, PHEAR bring to life their monster live shows to the ears of fans across the globe.” – KNAC (2020 – The Curse Lives On)

“The live songs were recorded in Toronto and this recording shows that the band seems to be able to deliver a live show like any good seasoned band. There are good interactions with the crowd, just enough to show a frontman able to get them going without being overbearing and breaking the flow of the show. One can’t help but smile when he goes, “Scream for me Toronto!” in very Bruce Dickinson fashion. I wish I head heard the originals but suffice it to say that their songwriting style is very much influenced by Maiden, though much closer to their post-reunion output that any of the classic ’80s stuff. Bottom line, this is over an hour of cool material kind of anonymized by a nondescript name. Worth checking out if you’re into newer Maiden. This is a band that might go places if they play their cards right. 4/5″ – The Metal Crypt (2020 – The Curse Lives On)

“If you are looking for some great classic sounding metal with fantastic vocals, amazing guitar work, give Phear a listen by checking out both Insanitarium and The Curse Lives On, both available now and catch them live when you get the chance. I guarantee you’ll love it all.” – Metal Master Kingdom

“Mixing the components of the NWOBHM era, blending them and sculpting them around their sound, making this offering by the Canadan-quintet a must in the air-guitar collection.” Metal Temple (2019 – Insanitarium)

“Mississauga-based Phear packs quite a punch on its debut full-length release, Insanitarium, The band’s brand of power/thrash metal is a perfect blend of melody and ferocity.” – Bravewords (2019 – Insanitarium)

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

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