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Posts By Asher

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​
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​““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
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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
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—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
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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​

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“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
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0 Rockshots Records – Out Now! Symphonic Folk Metal VALLORCH’s New Album “The Circle”

  • March 14, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Vallorch (Rockshots Records)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 14, 2025

Out Now! Symphonic Folk Metal VALLORCH’s New Album “The Circle”

The wait is over! Vallorch returns on March 14, 2025, with their highly anticipated album, “The Circle,” which is the band’s most ambitious and immersive work to date. Building upon their folk and symphonic metal roots, the band refines its signature sound into a dynamic fusion of powerful riffs, enchanted melodies, and cinematic orchestration.

Following the release of the anthemic “Circle Of The Moon” and the raucous folk metal celebration “Drink Some More!”, “The Circle” delivers an even broader spectrum of emotions and soundscapes. The album revolves around the theme of the night, capturing its dual nature—a time for reflection and solitude but also revelry and connection. From grandiose symphonic arrangements to festive folk elements, each track immerses the listener in a journey through legends, emotions, and the band’s signature sonic landscapes.

Compared to their previous works, “Neverfade” (2013) and “Until Our Tale Is Told” (2017), Vallorch has evolved their songwriting, crafting an album that is tightly composed and emotionally resonant. The folk influences remain, but with an even more polished and cinematic touch, elevating their sound to new heights.

Fans of Nightwish, Eluveitie, Alestorm, Epica, and Wind Rose will find themselves drawn into Vallorch’s world, where folk traditions and symphonic metal collide in an unforgettable experience. With myth-inspired lyrics, powerful storytelling, and an undeniable passion for their craft, Vallorch cements their place as one of the most exciting acts in modern folk metal.

March 14 marks a new era for Vallorch. “The Circle” isn’t just an album—it’s an invitation to journey through the night, to embrace the contrasts of light and dark, and to lose yourself in the magic of Vallorch’s sound.

Prepare to step into “The Circle”!
​
​LISTEN to “Circle Of The Moon”: https://lnk.to/lURizi​
​VIDEO for “Circle Of The Moon”: https://youtu.be/IlyLrROKUQU

​
​
​LISTEN to “Drink Some More!”: https://lnk.to/0GbDTM​
​VIDEO for “Drink Some More!”: https://youtu.be/7q6VdSiaE2k

​
​
Directed, shot, and edited by Simone D’Addazio
Shooting assistance by Sara Vescia
MUA by Erica Pillon
Band attire designed and crafted by Verdiana Biffis

ALBUM ORDER “The Circle” – https://lnk.to/2BMANxkG​

Track Listing:​
1. To the Silver Summit – 3:53
2. Hellpath – 3:52
3. Circle of the Moon – 3:34
4. Drink Some More! – 3:42
5. Antermoia – 5:00
6. Röte Löon – 4:39
7. Salbanéo – 3:59
8. The Wild One – 4:10
9. Dyssomnia – 9:08
Album Length: 42:01

ABOUT:​
​
​VALLORCH was born in December 2010, when Marco Munari (NewSun), Matteo Patuelli (Alzhagoth), and Massimo Benetazzo came up with the idea right after attending a concert together. Inspired by the energy and spirit of the event, they decided to form their own band, and the name VALLORCH—taken from a small Cimbrian village on the Cansiglio plateau—was quickly chosen as a tribute to their cultural roots.

For the first year, VALLORCH experimented with different sounds and musicians, searching for the right lineup. By January 2012, the group solidified with the addition of vocalist/flutist Sara, vocalist/bassist Leonardo Dalla Via, multi-instrumentalist Andrea ‘Demetrio’ Rampin (playing tin whistle, bagpipes, accordion), and violinist Francesco Salviato. This seven-member ensemble debuted live in March 2012, promoting their newly released EP Stories of North. Their captivating blend of folk metal quickly gained traction, earning them recognition in the Italian scene and leading to performances at events like Fosch Fest, where they opened for major bands.

However, the summer of 2012 brought changes. Violinist Francesco parted ways with the band, and Martina Mezzalira took his place. Around the same time, VALLORCH signed a record deal with Moonlight Records and entered the studio to work on their first full-length album. Released in 2013, Neverfade was met with critical and fan acclaim, blending fast-paced, melodic jigs with guttural and clean vocals, alongside powerful death metal riffs. This success landed them performances at major international festivals like Metaldays.

2014 saw further lineup shifts. Andrea Demetrio Rampin left the band, replaced by Paolo Pesce on accordion, hurdy-gurdy, and keyboards. Meanwhile, vocalist Sara took over tin whistle and bagpipe duties. Founding member Matteo Patuelli also stepped down, making way for guitarist Mattia Buggin to join. Despite these changes, VALLORCH pressed forward, embarking on their first European tour with Artaius. They played in Germany, Czechia, France, Belgium, and Slovakia, culminating in a performance opening for Mägo de Oz at the Metal for Emergency festival.

Later that year, they returned to the studio to record their second full-length album, Until Our Tale Is Told (2015). The album reflected the band’s growing compositional maturity and led to more festival appearances and live shows over the next two years.

In 2016, Riccardo Gianni briefly joined the band as a violinist, performing at several major local festivals. However, by 2019, the band was once again at a crossroads. After a series of lineup changes and creative challenges, founding member Marco Munari decided to leave the group. The remaining members—Massimo, Sara, Leo, Mattia, and Marco—faced a difficult choice: either disband or evolve. They chose to reinvent themselves as a five-piece band.

The global restrictions from 2020 to 2022 made live performances difficult, but the band used this time to focus on writing new material. By 2023, VALLORCH returned to the stage, opening for renowned acts like Alestorm, Wind Rose, and Rhapsody Of Fire.

Now, in 2025, VALLORCH is set to release their highly anticipated new album, “The Circle”, marking a triumphant return. Reborn from the ashes of their former selves, they are ready to take the world by storm once again.

Vallorch Line Up:​
​Sara Tacchetto: vocals, choirs, tin whistle, bagpipe
​Leonardo Dalla Via: vocals, harsh vocals, choirs, bass, programming
​Marco Povolo: vocals, choirs, keyboards, bouzouki, programming
​Massimo Benetazzo: Drums
​Mattia Buggin: electric and acoustic guitars
​
​Guests:

Serena Zucco (Adgarios): violin
​Glorya Lyr (Eard): Celtic harp in “Antermoia”

More info: ​
​https://www.rockshots.eu​
​
​FOLLOW:​
​https://www.instagram.com/vallorch_official/​
​https://www.facebook.com/vallorch​
​

-30-

​
—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
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0 Exitus Stratagem Records – Eclectic Doom AITTALA Drops New Single “Myself Deceived” Off Upcoming Album Machines Out April 2025

  • March 13, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Aittala (Exitus Stratagem Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 13, 2025

Eclectic Doom AITTALA Drops New Single “Myself Deceived”

New Album Machines Out April 2025

Eclectic doom metal powerhouse AITTALA is unveiling the first single “Myself Deceived” off their highly anticipated album “Machines”, set to drop on April 17, 2025, via Exitus Strategem Records.

Listen at the following links:

YouTube – https://youtu.be/QMuyW4XqzdY

​Digital (Spotify) – https://hypeddit.com/aittala/myselfdeceived​

The songs on “Machines” were originally written and demoed between 1990 and 1997 on an analog 4-track cassette recorder. Now, Aittala has revived these tracks, preserving their raw essence while enhancing them with modern production techniques. The album offers a nostalgic yet powerful experience, blending early progressive metal influences with storytelling-driven lyrics. While showcasing a distinct style from their recent works, “Machines” stays true to Aittala’s signature heavy, immersive sound.

Formed in 1991 in Holland, Aittala quickly gained recognition in the Dutch metal scene, opening for bands like THE GATHERING and SADIST. After a hiatus, frontman Eric Aittala resurrected the band in 2008, leading to six full-length albums: Bed of Thorns (2009), Haunt Your Flesh (2011), Effigy (2014), American Nightmare (2016), False Pretenses (2019), Live to Regret (2022).

Now, with “Machines,” AITTALA boldly steps into the past, bringing long-lost tracks to life with a modern, crushing edge.

This dynamic duo of Eric Aittala (Guitars/Vocals) and Gary ‘Zeus’ Smith (Drums) (THE FIFTH, ex-MR BLACKWELL) continues to write, record, and tour, bringing their distinct brand of heavy, immersive metal to fans worldwide.

Album pre-save (due out April 17, 2025) – https://hypeddit.com/aittala/machines​

Track Listing:​
1. Machines – 7:31
2. Myself Deceived – 6:24
3. Misery – 6:53
4. To Know the Man – 4:51
5. Machines (Prologue) – 2:32
6. Machines (Epilogue) – 5:03
Album Length: 33:15

For more info: Exsrmusic.com | Aittala.com | Facebook.com/aittalamusic | Instagram.com/aittalamusic | Spotify​

– 30 –

“Aittala Offer Powerful Pandemic Post-Mortem on ‘Live to Regret’… Stick it on a playlist with Apostle of Solitude, Crowbar, Famyne, and Paradise Lost, with a dash of Slayer for good measure.” – Doomed and Stoned​
​
​“One of the best albums for 2022” – 666MrDoom YouYube Channel

“This platter is heavy melodic ear candy that drips with deep and mesmeric face-melting tones and grinding rhythms.” (Live to Regret) – The Metal Gods Meltdown

“The band’s sound is difficult to pigeonhole because they incorporate a variety of styles. The common element in all the songs is the potent groove. On tracks like “Black Coffin” and “Afterthought” stoner/doom is at the forefront, while songs such as “Disowned” have a more traditional metal vibe. There are progressive influences on “How Much Longer,” while the closer “Debt” is a piano based ballad. Even with so many disparate styles, Aittala bring everything together into a cohesive whole.” – Heavy Music Headquarters

“I would describe them as an eclectic Doom Metal band, although their sound is a bit tough to define. That’s ultimately a good thing though, and I enjoy the refreshment of something different. My only major complaint is that on some songs, the vocals and lyrics are so drawn out that they become a little boring and you end up waiting a bit for something cool to happen. The good news is something cool usually does end up happening” – Metal-Temple

“In the metal world, bands can start to sound the same and Aittala steps outside of the box. With clear crisp vocals, grinding rhythms and well executed leads, this band is definitely in a league of their own.” – The Metal Channel​
​​
—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
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0 Aggro-Metal CHÜZO Kick-Off Ontario Tour Dates + New Lyric Video “Bruised and Broken” From EP “M.T.M.D (Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay)”

  • March 12, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · CHUZO · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 12, 2025

Montreal Aggro-Metal CHÜZO Kick-Off Ontario Tour Dates + New Lyric Video “Bruised and Broken”

New EP “M.T.M.D (Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay)” Out Now!

Produced by Kevin Jardine (Slaves On Dope)

L to R: Alex S (Bass), Cristian S (Guitars/Vocals), Mischa M (Vocals), Carlos G (Drums)

Photo Credit @stutteringuzii (Instagram)

Montreal aggro-metal troupe CHÜZO is kicking off their Ontario weekend warrior dates in Oshawa, Toronto, and Hamilton. The tour dates are in support of their latest EP “M.T.M.D (Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay)” unleashed this past October and produced with Kevin Jardine (Slaves On Dope, Uplift Recording Studio) (dates listed below).

To get fans hyped for the pit, the band is sharing their new lyric video for the intense knock-out track “Bruised and Broken”. The song is about being pushed, provoked, and instigated to the point of no return, and the inevitable result of that subjugated person losing their temper and inflicting red.

Watch and listen to the lyric video for “Bruised and Broken” – https://youtu.be/7TtEhRse1yQ

​

 

CHÜZO also performed last week at Wacken Metal Battle Canada‘s third round in Montreal and captured their experience, which can be viewed in the following video – https://youtu.be/fEvpxS5hmWU

​

The band adds:

“This is a video done by our drummer and editor Carlos Gutierrez, showing the action that happened at the Wacken Metal Battle 2025 at Piranha Bar in Montreal, Quebec. Even though we weren’t victorious, we were very stoked and thankful to perform in this battle. We played one of our best shows, one of our most passionate performances. We thank everyone who was involved with the organization of this metal battle. We thank the bands that played. We especially thank the people who got into our show and the pit. The judges were very cool and fair with their critiques. We put our heart and soul on that stage and we will be doing it again next year.”

TOUR DATES​
March 14 – The Atria – Oshawa, ON – info​
March 15 – Duffy’s Tavern – Toronto, ON – info​
March 16 – Doors Pub – Hamilton, ON – info​

CHÜZO‘s new EP “M.T.M.D (Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay)” is a three-track record that marks the next chapter and a true representation of what the quartet’s sound is meant to be.

“This new EP was to showcase our new lineup with our newest songs that are truly representative of our musical style, a style that we proudly call ‘Aggro-Metal.’ Very aggressive metal songs that have relatable themes that anyone can listen to and understand. This EP is our audio shotgun blast to the world to pay attention to and to mosh intensively during our live sets.” adds guitarist Cristian S.

CHÜZO‘s new lineup features the ensnaring vocals of Taiwanese Brazilian transplant Mischa M joining local first-generation Chilean Canadian and mastermind Cristian S. along with Carlos G from Venezuela and Alex S from Russia who all have found Montreal, Canada to be their home-to-breed their blender of grindcore, Swedish death metal, thrash, and hardcore punk to transform a sub-genre dubbed ‘Aggro Metal’.

The EP’s lyrics are driven by self-reflection and daily struggles. The inspiration for writing comes from life experiences and trying to live past them, especially the traumatic ones. Using all bad energy from bad experiences to create something positive for yourself and the world. This EP speaks of vengeance and the bad side of dedicating your life to achieving your desired revenge despite your own life and sanity. Brutal Social Justice.

For fans of Sepultura (Cavalera Bros era 84-96), At the Gates, Napalm Death, Slipknot, and Fuck the Facts, “M.T.M.D (Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay)” was released on November 15, 2024.

EP Stream links below:

Bandcamp – https://chuzomtl.bandcamp.com

​

Digital (Spotify) – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/chzo/mtmd​

Music Video – “Brand New Cell” – https://youtu.be/CPvB0BhDxbQ

Music Video – “Bruised and Broken” – https://youtu.be/0mVkPAsgN3k​

More Info: Instagram.com/chuzo.band | Facebook.com/chuzo.band​

-30-

Canadian College Radio Loud Charts – December 2024 – top 20 loud #20 – CHÜZO – M.T.M.D.

“‘A Brazilian vocalist, a Chilean guitarist, a Russian bassist and a Venezuelan drummer walk into a Montreal metal bar’ might sound like the beginning of a borderline funny joke, but it, in a roundabout way, speaks to the christening of thrash, punk, death-beat quartet CHÜZO. The band’s latest EP — M.T.M.D.(Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay) — is the latest in a long line of releases since forming in 2020 and sees the light of day today. The band has a lot to say about their latest endeavour, but fans of old Sepultura, Napalm Death, At the Gates and Fuck the Facts should find something of interest ” – Decibel Magazine

““Bruised and Broken” is definitely a rager. Mischa and Christian belt out the words in a tandem of furious screams and monstrous roars. Behind them, the song discharges high-speed percussive obliteration and punk beats, a violent churn of high-grit riffage, and bowel-loosening bass-quakes. The band also work in mean-eyed slashing chugs, a brutalizing breakdown that seems to get more thuggish but no less head-hooking as the seconds pass, an explosion of boiling and battering grindcore mayhem, and another hardcore beatdown that’s probably a sure-fire mosh trigger in a live show — with Mischa‘s screaming voice still coming for your throat with no-holds-barred intensity. Just this one song proves that for Chüzo the label “Aggro Metal” isn’t false advertising. It’s a gut-slugging, bone-smashing, vocally blistering, and viciously eviscerating outburst, and it also proves to be a pretty addictive piece of rage-fueled catharsis too. Speaking of live shows, the video gives a good sense of what the band’s live sets are about, and a good sense of how much fun they had beating the shit out of things in that rage cage.” – No Clean Singing

“The band has just released M.T.M.D., an acronym that stands for Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay, to testify how high the group’s ambitions are. The perspective could at first glance be assimilated to that of the variegated groove metal universe, but on closer inspection there is much more in the folds of the individual songs, characterized by the desire to release vital energy and give voice to impulses, emotions, feelings. The sound matrix is brutal, at times unstoppable, and characterized by the fierce performance of the gritty Mischa Mai microphones: combining power, imagination and a pinch of healthy madness the quartet gave full demonstration of their qualities.” – Rock Hard Italy
​
“M.T.M.D is a crucial chapter in Chüzo’s evolution, showcasing a lineup that’s finally found its voice. Their journey is a testament to the transformative power of music and the ability to channel personal struggles into a collective outcry for justice.” – Amplify The Noise
​
“It might be something of a cliché but it remains true; this isn’t simply an EP. It’s a promo for helping Chüzo find a major label for a debut full length… [8/10]” – Metal Noise
​
“CHÜZO have achieved several things on “MTMD (Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay)” that other bands dream of for an entire career. On the one hand, the clever balancing act is impressive between old school credibility and new school influences. A factor that plays a striking role in the overall absolutely high-class work is that Canadians walk in a straightforward and focused manner in the ear. The three songs on the EP entitled “MTMD” are fast-paced in nature, mill into the ear canals at massive speed and –’s most important aspect – remains there… The EP is catchy, intense and yet has matured, multi-layered and serious Half-life to be equipped. Conclusion: Check in, buy, leave, killer!” – Metal Division Magazine
​
​
​
​“Their common points: knowing how to intelligently mix the best of grindcore mixed with Swedish death, with a touch of hardcore thrash from a punk perspective. Chüzo calls his music, « Aggro Metal ». The theme of their songs, telling their life experiences, shouting their anger at the traumas experienced. The kind of text that allows you to let off steam and make yourself understood even if you have gaps in English. Chüzo is a sort of best of aggressive metal music with this vengeful punk attitude: Chüzo would be a disciple of Napalm Death. Damn their music is good to hear. For fans of Sepultura and the Cavalera brothers, Chüzo is for you, Cristian S. sings with the same kind of vocal intonation as Max C. For Christmas, I would like Chüzo to tour the old continent within the next 2 years. If I had the means, I would participate financially in their future tour. There are small (et larger) concert halls waiting for you. The day we can do a concert at the Kjbi, Chuzo is automatically on the bill” – Margoth PDF Webzine

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

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