Posts By Asher

0 Join Canada’s MAD PARISH On A Retro Space Odyssey w/ New Music Video “An Age To Quell” For Concept Album “The Dust Of Forever” + Comic Book Out Now!

February 13, 2025
by Asher
· Mad Parish · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 13, 2025

Join MAD PARISH On A Retro Space Odyssey w/ New Music Video “An Age To Quell”

New Concept Album “The Dust Of Forever” + Comic Book Out Now!

Montreal, Canada’s heavy metal powerhouse Mad Parish presents their new music video for “An Age To Quell”. This latest offering is from their recently released progressive metal concept album “The Dust Of Forever” that continues to showcase the band’s musical prowess and storytelling abilities. The band comments on the musical side of the track:

“A little more on the Power Metal side of things, this is an uptempo tune with a galloping intro, double bass drum verses, and a catchy pop-style vocal melody in the chorus. The guitar riffs are very well crafted (the opening riff is about as catchy as a riff could be). Probably the most ‘Pop’ style song on the album, one of our favorites.”

Representing another crucial chapter in the album’s narrative, “An Age To Quell” further immerses listeners in the epic tale of immortality and universal peril. The track exemplifies Mad Parish‘s signature blend of NWOBHM-inspired riffs, progressive structures, and arena-ready choruses.

The track shows how Mad Parish is constantly pushing their sound to new heights and is a perfect representation of how they’ve expanded their musical palette for this album, while still staying true to their heavy metal roots. The single is recommended for fans of Camel, Rush, and Rainbow.

Watch and listen to the music video for “An Age To Quell” via its premiere on MetalAddicts HERE.

Behind The Scenes Video – https://youtu.be/6-8RHzlhIJg

“The Dust Of Forever” was released on January 31, 2025, and is available digitally plus on CD and Vinyl along with a limited edition Comic Book “The Experience Hunter Chronicles” via their Bandcamp at https://madparish1.bandcamp.com/album/the-dust-of-forever

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/4jBAs9v

Music Video – Bishop’s Tomb – https://youtu.be/zrpXosWhnuU

Music Video – Loched – https://youtu.be/IHS5qxAp3-s

Track Listing:
1. Prophecy – 1:30
2. Defecther – 4:32
3. Possess The Child – 4:45
4. Outerest In Irisius – 1:34
5. Ouen Formation – 6:35
6. Hunted – 1:51
7. Astra T.R.A.Z (Tower Reformatory Asteroid Zone) – 4:42
8. Transmission #1 Dream On – 1:40
9. Resistius – 6:44
10. Aeternal – 1:44
11. An Age To Quell – 4:05
12. Transmission #2 – Will Of God – 2:04
13. Loched – 3:24
14. Cathedron Wakes – 5:37
15. Book of Rites – 1:06
16. Bishop’s Tomb – 3:32
17. Transmission #3 – Baz Raa Luum – 1:46
18. The Experience Hunter – 5:04
19. Trajectory: Tantus – 2:02
20. The Dust Of Forever – 5:11
21. Hail To The Hunter – 1:01
Album Length: 1:10:40

Comic Book Cover – The Experience Hunter Chronicles

Comic Book Credits:
Story – Josh McConnell
Artwork – Niall Skinner
Editing – Rahl Stafford
Design – Maximus Rex

More Info: Madparishmetal.com | Facebook.com/madparishmetal | Instagram.com/madparishmetal

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“where some bands call the lyrics the story and leave it at that, not Mad Parish. They’ve actually made a full comic book as well to go along with the record” – Decibel Magazine

“We all know the prog metal genre is still overflooded by bands from all parts of the world. I stopped trying to keep updated in the genre many years ago, but sometimes there are bands that impress on me – or at least bring something different to most other bands in the genre. Montreal (Canada) band Mad Parish is a band I’d like to bring to your attention. They have a sound that comes closer to the end of the 80’s and early 90’s, which I like a lot. And the lead vocalist Josh McConnell has a very interesting voice, a bit like an early Ozzy Osbourne. Futhermore, they are not as progressive as your ’average’ prog metal act, and some songs can be described as ’hard rock with hints of prog’ – where others are true prog metal songs… well worth checking out, as this album offers something a little different to many bands.” – Melodic.net

““The Dust of Forever” is filled with material that will grab you right away but your appreciation will continue to grow with each additional spin. As I sit here writing this review and listening to the title track unfold (which btw is the last “song”), I’m already looking forward to hitting that repeat button to start this metal opera again. While I admit there is no one track that stands out, I’m realizing that the whole record stands out and works best when listened to from start to finish. This record may have taken many years to complete but it is worth it. 2025 is starting off with a bang and “The Dust of Forever” is a great way to usher in the new year.” – Wormwood Chronicles

“Progressive with classic riffs and a voice reminiscent of Ozzy. Overall, an interesting record that takes some getting used to ( because of the many interludes, but should not be underestimated. I find 8 out of 10 Hellfire points Canadians are allowed to attach themselves to their album.” – Hellfire Magazin

“For the Mad Parish comic, I must say that this booklet has certainly scored a more than enough score; the story, a fanciful epic with an entertaining mix of sci-fi and religious ingredients is a great pleasure, and the drawings may be somewhat “-easy” modern, but still of such quality, that really makes it worth taking a seat.” – Rock Portaal

“Josh McConnell’s vocals are a ray of hope because the singer exudes a lot of charisma and partly reminds me of a young Ozzy Osbourne… fine compositions such as ‘Ouen Formation’, which does it quite convincingly, to combine the prog page of IRON MAIDEN with GENESIS in the early Collins phase and even give you a good catchy tune.” – PowerMetal.de

“A traditional and original album at the same time, whose intensive listening and acquisition should be added to the list of your good resolutions for the year 2025.” – Music In Belgium

“These Canadian trad metallers take us deeper into the story of their forthcoming concept album – and comic book – with a song which very much draws from how Black Sabbath recorded ‘Paranoid’, in that it was thrown together as a last-minute album filler but could become one of their defining musical moments’ – Uber Rock

“an ambitious heavy metal album that offers a mix of complex musicality and concept-oriented lyrics.” – MetalUnderground.at

“the album weaves an original story through a tapestry of Heavy Metal, following the journey of Joe, an immortal protagonist caught in a universe-threatening cataclysm, promising to transport listeners to another realm, with layered sounds and textures that reveal new aspects with each listen… Fans can look forward to an immersive album experience… one of the most innovative bands hailing from Montreal.” – The Headbanging Moose

“This one is red hot folks, the new album “Dust of Forever” from Mad Parish arrives today and it’s impressive. Track after track of ‘New Wave of British Heavy Metal’ that melds with progressive rock and in the end you have one kickin’ album man. Catch tracks from Mad Parish & “Dust of Forever” on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
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0 Out Now! Canadian Power Thrash PHEAR’s Heaviest Sound To Date On New Album “Save Our Souls” (Produced by Jon Howard (Threat Signal))

February 13, 2025
by Asher
· Music News · PHEAR

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 13, 2025

Out Now! Canadian Power Thrash PHEAR’s Heaviest Sound To Date On New Album “Save Our Souls” (Produced by Jon Howard (Threat Signal))

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

Canadian metal contingent PHEAR has unleashed their second full-length album “Save Our Souls”, now available as of February 13th, 2025 with digital distribution from Golden Robot Records. The new record follows the band’s award-winning album “Instanitarium” (2019), and their critically acclaimed EP “The Curse Lives On” (2020).

With their arena-caliber sound, “Save Our Souls” was produced, mixed, and mastered by Jon Howard (Threat Signal), and can be best described as the heaviest offering from PHEAR to date. Most of the album was written during the dark times of Covid. “Not a lot to be happy about during that time,” adds vocalist Patrick Mulock.

Extremely passionate and driven, PHEAR is always thinking of new ways to entertain its fans, and “Save Our Souls” is no exception. It has taken four years to complete (mostly due to covid). 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!” says 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 lead singles, the album’s title track and “Snake” are sure to make you throw up your hail horns and rock out with a sore neck from the headbanging. Plus the band offers up their cover version of Nevermore‘s “Narcosynthesis”.

“We feel that Phear fans will LOVE this album. We have played some of these songs live and they have gone over amazingly. The first time we played the title track “Save Our Souls”, the entire club was singing the chorus. And it has happened everywhere we have played since…….. No better feeling in the world!” adds Mulock.

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

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

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 sophomore album “Save Our Souls” is available from Golden Robot Records at the following link (Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon) – https://orcd.co/save-our-souls

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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““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
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0 Prog Guitarist ROD RODRIGUES Shares Epic Video “Tales Of A Changing Life Suite” Off New Album “Tales Of A Changing Life Part 2”

February 12, 2025
by Asher
· Music News · Rod Rodrigues

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 12, 2025

Prog Guitarist ROD RODRIGUES Shares Epic Video “Tales Of A Changing Life Suite”

New Album “Tales Of A Changing Life Part 2” Out Now!

Sharing his journey and stories of coming to Canada from Brazil on the new album “Tales Of A Changing Life Part 2”, guitarist, music teacher, and songwriter Rod Rodrigues is pleased to release his latest music video “Tales Of A Changing Life Suite” that features on its recording Hugo Mariutti (Bowed Guitar), Heitor Tenorio (Bass), Orlan Charles ( Keyboards and orchestrations), and Lucas Emídio (Drums).

“’Tales Of A Changing Life Suite’ is the epic piece I always wanted to write. It brings together everything that defines my guitar playing, blending all my influences—prog rock, orchestrations, shredding, and Latin music. The song takes you on a journey, much like “Journey to the Centre of the Earth”, with different sections that flow like a musical adventure, filled with emotion, complexity, and dynamic shifts.” adds Rodrigues.

The video for “Tales Of A Changing Life Suite” can be hard and seen at https://youtu.be/d_pNXwOTUK8

Fusing prog rock with Latin rhythms guitar virtuoso Rod Rodrigues has studied with renowned musicians Kiko Loureiro (Megadeth) and Greg Howe (Justin Timberlake, Michael Jackson) and has received degrees from IG&T and Claretiano University. Since 1997, he has been sharing his knowledge and skills as a music teacher in Brazil, Canada, and Europe. His e-book Guitar Shred (2016) was released in both languages, Portuguese and English, and in 2018, the guitarist and teacher launched his online training course Extreme Guitar Workout, which has attracted hundreds of students from around the world. Over the years, he has also been a member of various bands, including Enemies of Reality and Falling Into a Dream (a Dream Theater tribute band).

As a solo artist, Rodrigues released his first EP in 2010, titled “The First Step: Introduction”, which gained recognition in several music publications, including Guitar Player, Cover Guitarra, and Guitarload, among others. In 2019, he released his single “T.A.G.” followed by his concept EP, “Tales of a Changing Life Part 1” in 2022. Notably, “Tales of a Changing Life Part 1” featured the talented Marco Sfogli (James LaBrie, Premiata Forneria Marconi) on the track “Woodbine Sunset”.

Thanks to his outstanding work on “Tales of a Changing Life Part 1”, Rodrigues was voted one of the top 20 Guitar Players of 2022 by the readers of Brazilian Roadie Crew Magazine.

Rod Rodrigues produced his first full-length, “Tales of a Changing Life Part 2”, with mixing by Renato Osório and mastering by Kris Crummett (Nick Johnston, Issues, Sleeping With Sirens). For the album’s guests, Rodrigues recruited guitarists Hugo Mariutti, Angel Vivaldi, and Roy Ziv; bassists Heitor Tenorio and Bruno Ladislau; drummers John Macaluso (ARK, TNT, Yngwie Malmsteen, Riot), Rodrigo Abelha, and Lucas Emidio; as well as Orlan Charles (keyboards, piano, and saxophone), Rodrigo Sperandio (Brazilian viola), and vocalists Wesley Poison, Ana Carla de Carli, Andressa Alves, Caroline Grossi, Matheus Grossi, and Francis Botene.

“With Tales of a Changing Life Part 2, I believe I reached my peak as a musician and composer. Truly able to convey through music all the emotions of the transformation my life has gone through in the past 10 years. Moreover, I was fortunate to have the best team of musicians, each adding their unique and special touch to the work.” adds Rodrigues.

Recommended for fans of Dream Theater, Rush, Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, and Angra, “Tales of a Changing Life Part 2” was released on October 18, 2024, and is available at the following links:

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3CwoigV

Bandcamp (CD + Digital) – https://rodrodrigues.bandcamp.com/album/tales-of-a-changing-life-part-2

Video – “Inukshuk” ft. John Macaluso (drums), Angel Vivaldi (second guitar solo) – https://youtu.be/00i4UQ45AGw

Video – “On The Road” ft. Rodrigo Sperandio (Brazilian viola) – https://youtu.be/T1du5ofuRCM

Video – “Mom’s Lullaby” – https://youtu.be/rP6oSwPRxGE

Track Listing:
1 – Inukshuk – Feat. Angel Vivaldi and John Macaluso (6:31)
2 – On The Road (5:24)
3 – East Coast Memories – Feat. Roy Ziv (6:24)
4 – Dust In My Eyes (6:01)
5 – Saudade – Feat.Wesley Poison (1:41)
6 – Mom’s Lullaby (5:40)
7 – Tales Of A Changing Life Suite – Feat. Hugo Mariutti (11:32)
Total Time: 42:02

More info: Rodrodrigues.net | Facebook.com/rodrodriguesofficial | Instagram.com/rodrodriguesofficial

About:

Fusing prog rock with Latin rhythms guitar virtuoso Rod Rodrigues has studied with renowned musicians Kiko Loureiro (Megadeth) and Greg Howe (Justin Timberlake, Michael Jackson) and has received degrees from IG&T and Claretiano University. Since 1997, he has been sharing his knowledge and skills as a music teacher in Brazil, Canada, and Europe. His e-book Guitar Shred (2016) was released in both languages, Portuguese and English, and in 2018, the guitarist and teacher launched his online training course Extreme Guitar Workout, which has attracted hundreds of students from around the world. Over the years, he has also been a member of various bands, including Enemies of Reality and Falling Into a Dream (a Dream Theater tribute band).

As a solo artist, Rodrigues released his first EP in 2010, titled “The First Step: Introduction”, which gained recognition in several music publications, including Guitar Player, Cover Guitarra, and Guitarload, among others. In 2019, he released his single “T.A.G.” followed by his concept EP, “Tales of a Changing Life Part 1” in 2022. Notably, “Tales of a Changing Life Part 1” featured the talented Marco Sfogli (James LaBrie, Premiata Forneria Marconi) on the track “Woodbine Sunset”.

Thanks to his outstanding work on “Tales of a Changing Life Part 1”, Rodrigues was voted one of the top 20 Guitar Players of 2022 by the readers of Brazilian Roadie Crew Magazine.

Released in October 2024, Rod Rodrigues produced his first full-length, “Tales of a Changing Life Part 2”, with mixing by Renato Osório and mastering by Kris Crummett (Nick Johnston, Issues, Sleeping With Sirens). For the album’s guests, Rodrigues recruited guitarists Hugo Mariutti, Angel Vivaldi, and Roy Ziv; bassists Heitor Tenorio and Bruno Ladislau; drummers John Macaluso (ARK, TNT, Yngwie Malmsteen, Riot), Rodrigo Abelha, and Lucas Emidio; as well as Orlan Charles (keyboards, piano, and saxophone), Rodrigo Sperandio (Brazilian viola), and vocalists Wesley Poison, Ana Carla de Carli, Andressa Alves, Caroline Grossi, Matheus Grossi, and Francis Botene.

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“Rod Rodrigues’ upcoming release, Tales of a Changing Life Part 2, represents more than just a continuation of his musical journey—it’s a deeply personal reflection of the changes he’s experienced over the past decade. After a 12-year hiatus from releasing solo work, Rodrigues returns with an instrumental album that captures a rollercoaster of emotions through complex compositions and masterful collaborations. His ability to mix diverse musical influences is evident throughout, weaving together personal experiences, Brazilian rhythms, and progressive rock.” – Prog-Sphere (2024)

“In Tales of a Changing Life Part 2, Rodrigues not only showcases his technical virtuosity but also his ability to convey deep emotion and narrative through his compositions. His work stands as a shining example of how diverse musical influences can be melded into something both experimental and accessible. This is an album that takes listeners on a transformative journey, and in doing so, solidifies Rod Rodrigues as a unique voice in contemporary progressive music.” – Prog Archy (2024)

“Following closely the work of legendary drummer John Macaluso already brought great discoveries to my proggy table, and Rod Rodrigues’ new album makes no exception here. In best instrumental prog fusion manner, he tells the “Tales of a Changing Life” with the focus on his virtuoso guitar playing, carried by challenging yet groovy rhythm patterns, cool bass lines, and some beautiful keyboard interplays. All-together a wonderful listen if you’re into instrumental wizardry. ” – The Prog Space (2024)

“Obviously, much of the spotlight here is placed on Rodrigues’ prodigious grasp of the electric guitar. Although the album’s metal-ish side doesn’t stand any bit above what we’ve already heard from that corner of prog metal, Rod makes himself out to be an absolutely brilliant fusion guitarist, possibly one of the best I’ve heard in recent years. “Dust in My Eyes” might be my favorite track on the album for this very reason; Rod’s marriage of keen instrumental wandering and tight melodic passages is gorgeous.”- Riffage (2024

“Guitar virtuoso Rod Rodrigues latest release ‘Tales of a Changing Life is a conceptual record celebrating the changes in Rod’s life that have taken place over recent years. Straight from the Satriani-Vai-Johnson line of melodic guitar shredders, Rodrigues infuses his guitar playing style with prog, metal, fusion and jazz. While only a 5 song EP, there is a lot of great guitar work in this collection with an abundance of melodies. Perhaps not as much of a household name, Rodrigues is definitely worth getting to know.” – The Prog Report (2022)

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
Instagram @AsherMedia
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0 STRIKER’s “ULTRAPOWER” Nominated For JUNO Award for Metal / Hard Music Album of The Year + EU Tour w/ Unleash The Archers, Seven Kingdoms

February 12, 2025
by Asher
· Music News · Striker

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 12, 2024

STRIKER’s “ULTRAPOWER” Nominated For JUNO Award for Metal / Hard Music Album of The Year

EU Tour w/ Unleash The Archers, Seven Kingdoms

Seventh Studio Album “ULTRAPOWER” Out Now!

Produced by Josh Schroeder (Lorna Shore, Tallah, King 810)

Clockwise – L-R – Dan Cleary – Vocals, John Simon Fallon – Guitar, Pete Klassen – Bass, Tim Brown – Guitar
Photo Credit: Dana Zuk

Edmonton, AB heavy metal masters STRIKER have been nominated for their third Juno Award for “Metal/Hard Music Album of The Year” for their 2024 album “ULTRAPOWER” released via their indie label Record Breaking Records.

“Honoured to be among the best of the best of the best along with our fellow JUNO nominees this year for our 3rd consecutive nomination! This means a lot to us, we always give it all and are ready for anything. Tough competition this year, it’s a brawl at the pub, but no matter what, we will live to fight another day.” adds the band.

STRIKER have been nominated alongside Anciients, Devin Townsend, Kittie and Spiritbox.

2025 – JUNO Awards – METAL/HARD MUSIC ALBUM OF THE YEAR / ALBUM DE MUSIQUE MÉTAL/HARD DE L’ANNÉE

Anciients – Beyond the Reach of the Sun – Season of Mist / The Orchard
Devbin Townsend – PowerNerd – InsideOut Music / Sony
Kittie – Fire – Sumerian / Virgin
Spiritbox – The Fear of Fear – BMG / Universal
Striker – ULTRAPOWER – Independent

Full list of 2025 Nominees and Categories can be found at https://junoawards.ca/2025-juno-awards-nominees/

STRIKER’s latest album “ULTRAPOWER” was produced by Josh Schroeder (Lorna Shore, Tallah, King 810). The seventh full-length from STRIKER follows their Juno Award-winning self-released record “Play to Win” (2018) unleashed on their label Record Breaking Records.

With the band writing material since 2018, “ULTRAPOWER” is a collection of Striker tinkering and exploring new avenues. From the album’s opening track “Circle of Evil”, a Malmsteen-esque metal banger about secret societies and the evil dealings behind closed doors to their previously released single “BEST of the BEST of the BEST” serving up some big riffs and hockey arena vocals to “Blood Magic”, which might be one of Striker‘s most progressive songs, taking cues from bands like King Diamond, with its unconventional structure and punctuated guitar solos. From the band delving into their obsession for late 80s AOR and pop rock with “City Calling”, an ode to 1987, and bands like Toto and Kenny Loggins with their hook-powered albums. To fans experiencing the band’s first attempt at a synth-wave track with “Live To Fight Another Day”, this new offering sees Striker making a shredding love letter to the hard-rocking era of guilty pleasures.

“ULTRAPOWER” was released on February 2nd, 2024, and is available at https://www.striker-metal.com/shop/ (CD, Vinyl, Digital)

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3SnIshu

In additional news, STRIKER is kicking off their EU tour with Unleash The Archers and Seven Kingdoms (dates listed below).

EU Tour 2025 – Unleash The Archers, Striker, Seven Kingdoms
Tickets: https://linktr.ee/UnleashTheArchersTour2025
12.02 (DE) KARLSRUHE @ Substage
13.02 (DE) ASCHAFFENBURG @ Colos-Saal
14.02 (DE) COLOGNE @ Live Music Hall
15.02 (BE) KORTRIJK @ De Kreun
16.02 (GB) LONDON @ The Underworld
17.02 (FR) PARIS @ La Machine
19.02 (CH) ZURICH @ Dynamo
20.02 (IT) MILAN @ Legend Club
21.02 (DE) MUNICH @ Backstage Halle
22.02 (CZ) ZLIN @ Masters of Rock Cafe
23.02 (HU) BUDAPEST @ Barba Negra
25.02 (AT) VIENNA @ Szene
26.02 (PL) CRACOW @ Kwadrat
27.02 (DE) LEIPZIG @ Hellraiser
28.02 (LU) ESCH-SUR-ALZETTE @ Rockhal
01.03 (DE) HAMBURG @ Kronensaal
02.03 (NL) HAARLEM @ Patronaat

More info: Striker-metal.com

About: Blending classic heavy metal, hard rock, and 80’s hair metal, Striker has been making shredtacular anthems since 2007. The band has toured multiple times across Europe and North America along with festival appearances at 70,000 Tons of Metal, Bang Your Head Festival (Germany), and more to add to the almost 1000 shows performed in their decade-plus career. The band has been honoured with multiple Best Album awards in their home country of Canada from the JUNO Awards, Western Canadian Music Awards, and the Edmonton Music Awards. Since their inception, Striker has released seven studio albums Eyes in the Night (2010, Iron Kodex), Armed to The Teeth (2012, Napalm), City of Gold (2014, Napalm), Stand in the Fire (2016, Record Breaking), Striker (2017, Record Breaking), Play to Win (2018, Record Breaking), Ultrapower (2024, Record Breaking).

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“If you liked the last three albums (as much as I did), Ultrapower will equally satisfy. I know this one will be in my top 10 albums of the year. 8.5/10″ – Bravewords

“All in all, Striker’s Ultrapower may be their finest album to date. Their traditional, “keep it true,” heavy metal has never been more fresh, creative, and versatile, and so also, breathing new life into this classic genre. Easily recommended. 5/5″ – Dangerdog Music Reviews

““Ultrapower” is quite frankly a magnificent album. It has a feel good 80’s movie soundtrack aura about it with the spirit of artists such as John Farnham and Stan Bush standing tall alongside pure 80’s metal throwback. If you love 80’s rock and metal then this album is going to have you grinning from ear to ear. I think I’m gonna be grinning for days after several listens. Some fans of Striker’s more speed metal inclined sound may find this album a bit jarring but I can safely say it is the best album they have done and they have released some corkers. For the pure joy it has given me, this album is going to be hard to top in 2024 and we are still in the early part of the year.” – The Razor’s Edge

“Striker are more-than-ready to show us all the power of heavy music with Ultrapower, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy the ride with one of the best (of the best of the best) bands of the current Canadian landscape.” The Headbanging Moose

“an album that is bold, daring and as mentioned shows a band that are not afraid of fusing styles of music together… there are simply to many high quality songs on this album that simply blows me away. This is a polished, highly refined album with top quality production! 9/10” – The NWOTHM

“I really like the diversity in this album. 4/5” – KNAC

“I’m giving this one an 8 of 10 “Flaming Fists”. You can tell there’s a lot of work put into the album, they don’t half-ass anything. The production was good, it’s really hard to make amazing Arena-style rock without a decent budget, but they did a solid job…. if you liked the late 80’s and early 90’s bands you’ll really dig this. Overall, I’m really happy and thankful for this band continuing to do what they do.” – Rock Rage Radio

“The heavy, power, and traditional melodic metal landscape is in great shape thanks to bands like Striker producing high quality songwriting year after year. These Canadians continue to explore horizons while still maintaining the endearing qualities that helped put them on the map in the first place since the late 2000’s. Ultrapower is the seventh full-length studio record, and probably their most varied attack to date – incorporating everything from speed/thrash to AOR and old Wild West vibes. ” – Dead Rhetoric

“Striker’s execution and sense of humor makes for an enjoyable ride.” – Heavy Music HQ

“How do you say when bowling when you clear all the pins with a throw? It is a strike! STRIKER has achieved a great strike with their album „ Ultrapower “. All songs on this album are real hits! Each song has its own character and rocks what it takes. It is a wonderful homage to the 80 ’ years. I would say: The STRIKER engine is in full swing!” – Metal-Heads.de

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0 EPK – State of Mind – Sanity of Madness (EP) (2025) (Self-Made Records/ Earache Records)

February 11, 2025
by Asher
· EPKs · State of Mind (Self-Made Records)

EPK – State of Mind – Sanity of Madness (EP) (2025) (Self-Made Records/ Earache Records)

For fans of Black Sabbath, Alice Cooper, Dio, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Ozzy, Queensryche

All Links – https://linktr.ee/AStateofMind

Label EPK – https://selfmaderecordsllc-business.com/a-stateofmind-epk

Facebook.com/AstateofmindJohnFerris | X.com/JohnFerris_SOM | Youtube.com/@SOM.JohnFerris | Instagram.com/johnferris88

Sttefmnd.bandcamp.com | Spotify

“The melodies that the guitar elicits are successful from the chord to the solo, and it goes without saying that the bassist and drummer support the versatile playing in a solid manner.” – Metal Division Magazine

“Their compositions aim to illuminate the struggles of those grappelling with darkness, offering hope and understanding through powerful rock and metal anthems, as well as poignant ballads.” – Concert Monkey

“This band has got the sound to move you, the energy to inspire you, and the soul to touch you. They’re a testament to the enduring power of rock n’ roll.” – Papy Jeff Metal

“and the more hard rock tinged and groove-oriented escapades of the opening number here gave me an initial impression of grunge, closely followed by 80s traditional heavy metal. And later on with some cues that gave me associations towards the early days of Helstar and the US variety of early power metal, and with the concluding song taking on a little bit of the feel in general and the vocal style in particular of Paul Di’Anno era Iron Maiden.” – The Viking in the Wilderness

Band: State of Mind
EP Title: Sanity of Madness
Release Date: Feb 7, 2025
Label: Self Made Records LLC
Distribution: Earache Records Digital Distribution

Track Listing:
1. The Masters Coming (3:00)
2. Dead (3:50)
3. Mourning Star (4:59)
4. Shine (3:34)
5. Wizard (2:39)
6. Sail Across The Ocean (3:52)
EP Length: 21:51

EP Credits:
All songs performed by: State of Mind
All songs written by: John Ferris and Robbie Grossheim
Produced and Mixed by: Danny Hardt Music and Global Destruction Studios
Mastered by: J.P. Braddock at Formation Audio at Earache Records EDD
Album art by: John Ferris and Night Cafe’

Album and Live Band Lineup:
John Ferris…Lyricist / Vocals
Robbie Grossheim…Guitars
John Cook…Guitars
Kenny Thomas…Bass
Kenny Starnes…Drums

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

About The Album Artwork

I play with typing my lyrics into an Ai Art Generator this was “Sanity of Madness” on Night Cafe”

About the album as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY)

A collection of stories about Renefield, Anger, Jesus, Vikings, a Poster, and those who are taken away too soon

Track by Track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY)

!) The Masters Coming… Is entirely about Dracula’s little side kick Renefield. This has a killer feel as well as an awesome bass line from our bassist Kenny Thomas. The drums by Kenny Starnes and the guitar work by Robbie Grossheim and John Cook bring the power of good old-school metal to your ears. One of my favorites off the Sanity of Madness EP.

2) Dead… This is just an angry hard-driving rocker all the way. Once again driving guitars and bass, along with the drive of the drums keeps your head banging. Tapping into everyone’s frustration and the feeling of slaving to live just to feel dead inside. The lyrics describe someone who’s been knocked down, on the edge, and tired. The chorus is his breaking point. Self-induced nightmares from drugs and alcohol, life spinning out of control, dark thoughts…. It happens all too often.

3) Mourning Star… This is our first attempt at a Christian metal ballad. This song was written by Robbie Grossheim (Guitars/founding member), and John Ferris (Lyricist/ Vocalist, founding member). We wrote this song in the late 90’s. Our new members, Kenny Starnes, Kenny Thomas, and John Cook, really did an excellent job in giving the song the power it deserves. The song is about the man, son, brother Jesus. As a human, he had to feel human feelings, and had to have human doubt regardless of his knowledge of the events to unfold in his future. This song is about Jesus’ State of Mind as a man. When he saw the star at his birth, he knew it was a sign of mourning

4) Shine… is our first attempt at a Christian metal ballad. This song was written by Robbie Grossheim (Guitars/founding member), and John Ferris (Lyricist/ Vocalist, founding member). We wrote this song in the late 90’s. Our new members, Kenny Starnes, Kenny Thomas, and John Cook, really did an excellent job in giving the song the power it deserves. The song is about the man, son, brother Jesus. As a human, he had to feel human feelings and had to have human doubt regardless of his knowledge of the events to unfold in his future. This song is about Jesus’ State of Mind as a man. When he saw the star at his birth, he knew it was a sign of mourning

5) Wizard…This was written as an in-your-face jam, hard-hitting and full of energy. The story of the song is taken from a poster we had hanging in the jam room at the time. In my wild days, during a self-induced psychedelic experience at practice, I looked at that poster and wrote about it. everything in the song was in that poster. And the wizard was on top of a rainbow with his arm reaching out in angst because “no one listens”.

6) Sail Across The Ocean (SATO)…was written as an in-your-face jam, hard-hitting and full of energy. The story of the song is taken from a poster we had hanging in the jam room at the time. In my wild days, during a self-induced psychedelic experience at practice, I looked at that poster and wrote about it. everything in the song was in that poster. And the wizard was on top of a rainbow with his arm reaching out in angst because “no one listens”.

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

Fun Facts – Story Angles

Answered by John Ferris…Lyricist / Vocals

1) We have the uncanny ability to write a song on the fly.2) I went to lean back on the guitar player during his lead. I was facing the drummer singing, saw my guitarist behind me on the edge of the stage. When I went to lean back on him I didn’t noticed he had moved..so I fell off the stage backwards and landed between the lights, the stage and the speaker stacks. I jumped up and continued singing like nothing happened.3) We are very interactive with our audience. People will come up and sing with me, sometimes other musicians will come up after their set and want to play a one of our songs with us. We had one lady come up to be the tambourine player for a few songs.

4) Between all 5 of us, we have almost 140 years of musical experience.

5) I got the name Styltskyn from falling on a pair of stilts at work and skinning up my right arm and face from falling into a wall…..Styltskyn…

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

Top – L-R – John Cook – Guitars, John Ferris – Vocals, Robbie Grossheim – Guitars

Bottom – L-R – Kenny Thomas – Bass, Kenny Starnes – Drums

A State Of Mind is a modern classic heavy metal band that traces its origins back to 1994, when four friends united with a shared passion for music. On the very first day of their practice, they composed their inaugural original track, “Wardance,” setting the stage for their creative journey.

Drawing inspiration from legendary figures in hard rock and metal, such as Dio, Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Queensryche, the band chose the name State of Mind to encapsulate the essence of music as a reflection of emotional states and experiences. Their compositions aim to illuminate the struggles of those grappling with darkness, offering hope and understanding through powerful rock and metal anthems, as well as poignant ballads. Frontman John Ferris channels his personal experiences—ranging from addiction and heartbreak to self-reflection—into their music, addressing the inner demons that resonate with many.

After a hiatus, the band felt compelled to reintroduce State of Mind to the world, featuring founding members Robbie Grossheim, who crafts the music, and John Ferris, who provides lyrics and vocals, alongside talented musicians John Cook on lead guitar, Kenny Thomas on bass, and Kenny Starnes on drums.

They released their latest EP “Sanity of Madness” on February 7, 2025, via Self-Made Records with distribution from Earache Records.

Discography:
2025 — Sanity of Madness Ep
2022 — two singles Shattered and Fall Away
2019 — State of Mind Ep
1995 — State of Mind Cassette

Shared the stage with
East Texas Adrenaline, Aepshyt, Broken Within, White Trash Superstar, Stone Blind, Klozure, Silence Fuels Nothing, Amazing Timekeepers Band, Down by Default, Kollider, Shining Force, Darkness of Tomorrow, Serpent Attack, Gran Andes, Bag of Tricks, Dead Set Red, ReDefined

0 HELLS YEAH!!! STRIKER Nominated for The JUNO Awards \m/\m/ “ULTRAPOWER” METAL/HARD MUSIC ALBUM OF THE YEAR ALBUM DE MUSIQUE MÉTAL/HARD DE L’ANNÉE https://junoawards.ca/2025-juno-awards-nominees/ #canada #canadianmetal #canadianmusic #canadianmusician #junoawards #metal #heavymetal #AlbumOfTheYear #AOTY #music #musicawards

February 11, 2025
by Asher
· Striker

HELLS YEAH!!! Striker Nominated for The JUNO Awards \m/\m/ “ULTRAPOWER”

METAL/HARD MUSIC ALBUM OF THE YEAR

ALBUM DE MUSIQUE MÉTAL/HARD DE L’ANNÉE

https://junoawards.ca/2025-juno-awards-nominees/

#canada #canadianmetal #canadianmusic #canadianmusician #junoawards #metal #heavymetal #AlbumOfTheYear #AOTY #music #musicawards

0 WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA 2025 Announces Edmonton Round & Bands – One Band To Rule Them All & Play Wacken Open Air

February 11, 2025
by Asher
· Music News · Wacken Metal Battle Canada

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 11, 2025

WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA 2025 Announces Edmonton Round & Bands

– One Band To Rule Them All & Play Wacken Open Air 2025 –

WMBC Trailer – https://youtu.be/b55Fh5Vo64k

Spotify – 2024 WMBC National Finalists Playlist HERE.

One Band To Rule Them All! After another record-breaking year of submissions from independent bands across the country, Wacken Metal Battle Canada is proud to announce this year’s Calgary bands and rounds along with previously announced British Columbia, Ontario, and Montreal battles.

One unsigned Canadian band will be crowned champion and perform at one of the world’s most prestigious and largest already sold-out metal festivals Wacken Open Air (July 30th – August 2nd) (Attendance of over 80,000 people in Wacken, Germany for over 30 years).

The national final will be held in Vancouver, BC on May 31st, 2025 at The Rickshaw Theatre.

2025 Canadian Wacken Battles:

Edmonton Date:

March 6 – Edmonton Round @ Starlite Room
The Judge The Juror, Rättylsnäke, Decrepitation, Product of Anger, Velvet Concord

Calgary Dates:

March 6 – Calgary Round 1 – Dickens
Beyond Suffering, Godfall, Passing Pluto, Victoria LiesEvent Info – https://www.facebook.com/events/644778834777207

March 20 – Calgary Round 2 – Dickens
GOAR, Our Last Crusade, Per Velum, Valence
Event Info – https://www.facebook.com/events/584896851193341

April 18 – Alberta Final – Calgary – Dickens

Montreal Dates: (Montreal, Quebec City, Ottawa Bands)

Feb 7 – Montreal Round 1 – Piranha Bar
Chaotic Symbios (QC), Last Dance Among Wolves (MTL), Red Raven Chaos (MTL), Stadaconé (MTL)
WINNER – Stadaconé – https://www.facebook.com/partyfolkmetal

Feb 28 – Montreal Round 2 – Piranah Bar
Hatred Reigns (Ottawa), Wooden (MTL), Odd Times (MTL), Soulthief (Ottawa)
Event Info – https://www.facebook.com/events/1639972466625238/

March 7 – Montreal Round 3 – Piranha Bar
Demonius (MTL), Forbidden Order (MTL), CHÜZO (MTL), Sovereign Council (Ottawa)
Event Info – https://www.facebook.com/events/2912734675567633/

April 11 – Montreal Final – Piranha Bar

British Columbia Dates:

March 1 – Vancouver Round 1 @ The Cobalt – Vancouver, BC
DeathBound, NIGHTOWL, Utility Provider, Nokturna, Burnt Lung
Event Info – https://www.facebook.com/events/1114719273271273/

March 2 – BC Interior Round @ Jackknife Brewing – Kelowna, BC
Dendros, Burn It All, Gregorious, Nomad, Storm The Empire
Event Info – https://www.facebook.com/events/913101870812415/

March 22 – Vancouver Round 2 @ The Cobalt – Vancouver, BC
Iron Kingdom, Ashen Pall, Heathanz Sinz, Killing Twins, TIVR
Event Info – https://www.facebook.com/events/951824699871604/

March 30 – Vancouver Island Round @ Lucky Bar – Victoria, BC
YEGG, Electric Druids, Decryptor, Gate Theory, Antler
Event Info – https://www.facebook.com/events/481340948041676/

May 3 – BC Final @ The Cobalt – Vancouver, BC
May 31 – National Final @ The Rickshaw, Vancouver, BC

Ontario Dates:

January 10 – London Round @ Rum Runners
Atria (guest headliner), Death Club, Dead Days, 4HateU8
WINNER – DEAD DAYS – https://www.facebook.com/deaddaysmusic

January 24 – Hamilton Round @ Main Stage Rehearsal
The Good Depression, Killotine, Zero Tolerance, Devilz By Definition, Zero End
WINNER – KILLOTINE – https://www.facebook.com/killotine

January 25 – Toronto Round 1 @ Hard Luck
Pillars of Autumn, Ischemic, Purveyor of Chaos, Unkle Skurvey
WINNER – ISCHEMIC – https://www.facebook.com/Ischemic

February 1 – Toronto Round 2 @ Hard Luck
Seagrave, Nepenthe, Panic Response, The Animal Warfare Act
WINNER – NEPENTHE – https://www.facebook.com/NepentheMetal

March 21 – Ontario Final – Toronto @ Rivoli
Nepenthe, Ischemic, Killotine, Dead Days, + 1 more TBA
Ticket Link – https://wackenmetalbattle.bigcartel.com/product/wacken-metal-battle-march-21-toronto

The 2025 WMBC champion will receive the following:
– A slot at the 2025 Wacken Open Air Festival.
– Full professional backline provided.
– $1,000 CAD towards flights to Germany.
– VIP camping at the festival.

The 2024 WMBC national final was held in Edmonton, AB at The Starlite Room on May 25th and witnessed regional winners Arrow In The Quiver (Vancouver, BC), Infrastrvctvre (Calgary, AB), Age of Ashes (Edmonton, AB), Beguiler (Toronto, ON) and Red Raven Chaos (Montreal, QC) along with special guest headliners NECHT (Calgary, AB – 2023 National Finalist).

The night was MC’d by Gord Alexander (Tessitura, Tides of Kharon) and judged by an industry panel that included JJ Tartaglia (Wacken Metal Battle Canada, Boonsdale Records, Skull Fist, Thunderor – Toronto, ON), Luc Lainé (CFLX 95,5 FM – Alerte Metallique – Sherbrooke, QC), Dan Cleary (Striker), Kim Aebly (The Invisible Orange, Vancouver, BC), Dana Zuk (Dana Zuk Photography – Edmonton, AB), Jon Asher (Asher Media Relations – Montreal, QC), Nancy Barnes (Big Nate Productions – Calgary, AB), Celestia Scarlett (Owner/Artist Manager – The Celestial Agency- Calgary, AB) and Steve DC (Strigampire – 2023 National WMBC Winner – Trois-Rivières, QC).

After each band presented their furious rallying battle performance, the only one that stood out from the rest was crowned 2024 champion Toronto’s Beguiler who moved on to perform as the only independent Canadian band at the International Battle at Wacken Open Air 2024 (July 31st – August 3rd).

Live Full Video of 2024 WMBC National Final in Edmonton, AB – https://www.youtube.com/live/dCYiImMkzq4

List of previous WMBC national winners Beguiler (Toronto, ON – 2024), Strigampire (Trois-Rivières, QC – 2023), The Slyde (Toronto, ON – 2019), Centuries of Decay (Toronto, ON – 2018), Profaner (Hamilton, ON – 2016), Vesperia (Toronto, ON – 2015), Mutank (Montreal, QC – 2014), Crimson Shadows (Toronto, ON – 2013).

Info:

Since 2013, with a pause year in 2017 and 2020 due to COVID-19, Wacken Metal Battle Canada has hosted battles across the country to send one independent metal band to perform at the world’s largest metal festival Wacken Open Air in Wacken, Germany. 2019 saw the festival celebrate its 30th anniversary, but due to Covid, the 2020 and 2021 editions were both canceled. As the metal community regains its strength, Wacken Open Air 2025 will be the 34th edition of the festival and will be held from July 30th – August 2nd. The 2025 event is already sold out with a line-up that includes Machine Head, Saltatio Mortis, Papa Roach, Gojira, Apocalyptica, Saxon, Within Temptation, Dimmu Borgir, Ministry, and many more. Details here.

About:

Wacken Metal Battle Canada is part of an international competition that sees bands from across the country battle each other for the chance to win their spot among 30 other countries’ champions, and represent Canada in an international battle of the bands at the world’s largest outdoor metal festival: Wacken Open Air. The battles have been hosted at the festival for over a decade giving independent bands the opportunity to showcase their talents to an international audience along with the chance to win multiple prizes.

How it works:
Participating cities will host qualifying rounds plus a city final organized by a local city concert promoter where one band will move forward to the Canadian national final (date and city to be determined). The winner of the national final will move on to perform at the Wacken Open Air 2025 and compete against the winners of 29 other countries in a final global battle. All battle rounds are judged by respected local music industry representatives.

Rules for participation: https://www.metal-battle.com/rules/

Links:
Metal-Battle.com
Facebook.com/WMBCanada.official
Twitter.com/MetalBattleCan
Instagram.com/MetalBattleCanada.Official

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Media Partners:
Bravewords.com
Metal-Rules.com
Absolute Underground Magazine
BrokenNeckRadio.com
V13.net
MetalDevastationRadio
Rich Embury (internationally syndicated DJ)
GhostCultMag.com
Rocknroam.ca
Vox & Hops Podcast
The Metal Voice

Promoter Partners:
Boonsdale Records
Dungeonworks Productions
The Invisible Orange
Big Nate Productions
ConcertWorks
Asher Media Relations

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
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0 Texas’ ABOLISHMENT OF FLESH Drops Devastating Music Video for “Disavowed” Off “Resurrecting Misanthropy” EP Out Now!

February 11, 2025
by Asher
· Abolishment of Flesh · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 11, 2024

Texas’ ABOLISHMENT OF FLESH Drops Devastating Music Video for “Disavowed” Off “Resurrecting Misanthropy” EP Out Now!

Live Lineup – Top Left – Ramon Cazares – Guitars, Vocals – Top Right – Izaak Chavez – Guitar

Bottom Left – Jake Lahniers – Bass, Backing Vocals – Bottom Right – Adrian Galindo – Drums

Texas death metal tyrants Abolishment of Flesh are unshackling their new music video for “Disavowed”, the closing track from their 2023 EP “Resurrecting Misanthropy”. The video continues the band’s tradition of creating intense, uncompromising visual experiences that match their sonic brutality. Ramon Cazares (guitars/bass/drums/vocals) explains the track in his own words:

“I wrote this song a couple of years ago. In a way, this could be a continuation of “Hater of Man”. It’s about a person that’s grown old and became misanthropic. This takes place in the future. It’s a reflection of how the world and society have failed this person. They’ve finally given up on everything and just sit and wait for death.”

At just over four minutes, “Disavowed” represents the band’s evolved sound – more structured yet still maintaining the raw, chaotic energy that has defined their music since their early days. There’s a little bit of something for everyone on the EP; Abolishment of Flesh is not just death metal – they throw in some black metal, melody, thrash, groove, and grind. Combined with anti-human themes, they deliver death and destruction.

“Disavowed” embodies the band’s message of anti-human sentiment, delivered with surgical precision and unbridled aggression. It is recommended for fans of Amon Amarth Kataklysm, and Suffocation.

Watch and listen to the video for “Disavowed” via its premiere on NoCleanSinging HERE.

“Resurrecting Misanthropy” is out now at Abolishmentofflesh.bandcamp.com and Spotify.

Music Video – “Hater of Man” – https://youtu.be/KIXiepFhV3g

Lyric Video “Words Defy Truth” – https://youtu.be/vYJ1LwFnx7M

Track Listing:
1. Words Defy Truth (4:00)
2. Hater of Man (3:23)
3. Disavowed (4:04)

More info: Abolishmentofflesh.com | Facebook.com/abolishmentoffleshofficial | X.com/abolishmenttxdm | Youtube.com/@abolishmentoffleshofficial | Instagram.com/abolishmentoffleshofficial

-30-

“A brutal sonic assault on the senses, there are moments that sound like they were influenced by the early days of Sepultura with the raw, unpolished quality of the recording itself adding to the charm. If you’re new to Abolishment Of Flesh this is a baptism of fire.” – Metal Noise

“A production to seek out by those who enjoy a polished and presumably technical variety of extreme metal that balance tight and vibrant aggression with more elegant and inviting phases defined by an accessible flow and momentum.” – Viking in the Wilderness

“Spiraling and crazed death metal from Amarillo, The Abolishment Of Flesh’s debut proves they aren’t messing around.” – Metal Injection (Inhuman Condition 2018)

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
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0 HYPERSPACE METALFEST Adds AfterTime To 2025 Lineup w/ ENFORCER, PSYCHOSTICK, GREYHAWK, GLYPH, CRIMSON SHADOWS, LUNAR and more!

February 11, 2025
by Asher
· Hyperspace Metal Festival · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 11, 2025

HYPERSPACE METALFEST Adds AfterTime To 2025 Lineup

w/ ENFORCER, PSYCHOSTICK, GREYHAWK, GLYPH, CRIMSON SHADOWS, LUNAR and more!

April 10th – 12th – Vancouver

HMF 2025 Lineup Spotify Playlist – https://spoti.fi/3T4kU2p

Returning for its 6th edition after another year of crowd-pleasing epic fun in Vancouver, B.C., Canada’s premier melodic and power metal festival HYPERSPACE METAL FEST announces the addition of Symphonic Metal Storytellers, Minneapolis’ AfterTime to their 2025 lineup to replace the unfortunate cancelation of OwlBear.

Since their inception in 2011, AfterTime has been perfecting a potent blend of Symphonic Metal and orchestral film scores. Their songs are larger-than-life and unapologetically epic, with a special focus on adventurous storytelling and marvelous atmospheres. This past September, the band announced Narcissa as their new vocalist and released a version of their song “Sons of Fenrir” with her on vocals. The track is from their latest album “Arcane Horizons” released in May 2024. Video – “Sons of Fenrir” – https://youtu.be/8q-JD0PCLPI

Festival organizer Joey Hockin of Journeyman Productions adds:

“This time of year is always hectic for us, and this year is no exception. Owlbear has been forced to pull out of the lineup this year. For more info on that, watch for a statement from them on their page. In their place, we will have the epic AfterTime from Minneapolis! They’ll be playing Vancouver for the very first time on day 3 of Hyperspace and we can’t wait!”

Being hosted at The Cobalt (April 10 &11th) and the Rickshaw Theatre (April 12th), Hyperspace Metal Fest’s 2025 lineup features headliners ENFORCER, PSYCHOSTICK, Greyhawkalong with Crimson Shadows, Lunar, AfterTime, Tower Hill, Solarus, Red Cain, Tylor Dory Trio, Serpent Rider, Luminator, The Astral Prophets and Crüzer.

Headlining Saturday, April 12th at The Rickshaw Theatre, Sweden’s ENFORCER have proved themselves both live and on record, they stake their place amongst the world’s most renowned heavy metal bands since first forming in 2005. They have toured the world over, playing the biggest festivals and garnering a global fanbase. Their latest sixth studio album Nostalgia (released May 2023 – Nuclear Blast), features 13 heavy metal anthems and throws ENFORCER back to their speed metal roots. Fusing extreme guitar riffing with catchy stadium choruses, ENFORCER is out to conquer the world. Music Video – Nostalgia – https://youtu.be/XhfrJAPbOCY

Supporting ENFORCER on the closing night lineup will be Comedy Metal Kings PSYCHOSTICK. These humorcore titans bring forth a nostalgic escapade of sing-alongs and moshing fun with iconic titles such as “Beer!”, “Numbers (I Can Only Count to Four)”, “Dogs Like Socks”, “Obey The Beard!”, “Boobs”, and their latest single “Ultra Mega Fast” – https://youtu.be/kaqeizvxefM

Friday, April 11th, the second-night lineup will also witness the return of the formidable force that is Toronto’s Crimson Shadows bringing forth tales of fantasy and warfare in their fierce melodic power and death metal-imbued sound. Thundering across the icy Canadian mountains, Crimson Shadows has awoken after five years away. The band has emerged from the dark and is preparing to forge its own path in this next stage of its journey. Across their defiant career stretching almost two decades, to date notable highlights of Crimson Shadows‘ journey include the band’s appearance at Wacken Open Air in Germany in mid-2013 and subsequent victory in obtaining the title of International Wacken Battle Champions. Alongside international performances, Crimson Shadows has ventured across the length and breadth of their homeland delivering brutality, technical prowess, and unyielding intensity in their melding of power and death. Music Video – Guardians – https://youtu.be/W9BKYvGYeCM

Headlining Friday, April 11th at The Cobalt and returning for their third time at HMF is Seattle’s Greyhawk stepping in at the last minute to headline night 2 of Hyperspace this year. With new singer Anthony Corso, Greyhawk is ready to bring the power with what is sure to be their best performance at Hyperspace yet! Anyone who has seen this traditional heavy metal titan before knows that they are in for an incredible set. Their newest album “Thunderheart” released in April 2024 on Fighter Records, a division of Xtreem Music has been making waves across the heavy metal and power metal scenes worldwide. Band playthrough – Spellstone – https://youtu.be/65ySwth-LKo

Also featured on the Friday night lineup is the first-ever live performance from Lunar, a progressive metal project from California that features members from Helion Prime, Beholder, Vis Mystica, Mokili Wa, Nordic Frost, Outloud, and Double Vision. Founded by drummer Alex Bosson (Helion Prime, Planeswalker) and Ryan Erwin who passed away in 2018, LUNAR continues in his memory. Their fourth full-length “Tempora Mutantur” was released on January 31st via Saibot Reigns Records to follow 2023’s “The Illusionist” and features a fresh lineup with the addition of guitarists Carlos Alvarez and Connor McCray (Vis Mystica) along with keyboardist Anthony Stahl plus album guests Wayne Ingram (Wildrun), Joe Gullace (Thank You Scientist) and Sam Vallen (Caligula’s Horse). Music Video – Watch The Weather Change – https://youtu.be/WKdnZD_DJsE

Meant to perform on the 2024 lineup, but forced to cancel, Tylor Dory Trio returns for 2025, they are a monstrous progressive metal unit and beloved by many in Western Canada. This live performance on Friday, April 11th, will be their first following a nearly seven-year layoff. Music Video – The Waitress – https://youtu.be/nh9MxcSqlOE

Also added to the Friday lineup and opening that night is The Astral Prophets, a psychedelic rock/metal band from Calgary, AB featuring Apprentice, Lycanthro, and Scythia members. This is the band’s first time on the fest although some members have played the fest before in previous groups. They will be supporting their latest 2023 EP “Anywhere But Here”. EP Stream – https://youtu.be/255g8CZX2F8

Opening night of the festival, Thursday, April 10th at The Cobalt, will showcase the Pacific Northwest’s Glyph, which is not just a heavy metal band, they are a crew of intergalactic mercenaries escaping a dying planet in their spaceship, the VSS Dragonlord. Clearly, Glyph isn’t just writing songs, they’re building worlds and they bring it forth in their latest album “Honor, Power, Glory” released this past March. Music Video – March of the Northern Clan – https://youtu.be/htSyUb25wD4

Traveling from Edmonton, AB, Tower Hill delivers premium old-school heavy metal inspired by bands like Running Wild, Riot, Judas Priest, early Blind Guardian, and Helloween. Forging the best of the late 80s and early 90s German, British, and US metal scenes into a new blend of shimmering steel, Tower Hill’s riff-driven, hook-laden traditional metal will have you banging your head and singing along. Lyric Video – Deathstalker – https://youtu.be/IGybnd-HZRU

Replacing the originally announced Lost Nebula, Calgary’s RED CAIN has been imported to perform their power-prog storytelling with Eastern European roots for the masses. They have been making waves since their first release in 2016, with award-winning music videos and concept albums “Kindred: Act I”, “Kindred: Act II” and “NÄE’BLISS”. The albums contained a ton of genre inspirations, from gothic rock to ambient electronica, power, black, and death metal, and were universally lauded for their inventiveness, variety, and strong conceptual content. They continue this momentum with the latest singles “Firestarter” and “Demons II”. Music Video – Demons II – https://youtu.be/7VViLOrFfQ8

Hyperspace Metal Festival VI – April 10th – 12th.
One-day passes and three-day passes are available at: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/hyperspace-metal-festival-vi-tickets-1000996957847

Facebook Event – https://www.facebook.com/events/1637280440385808

Thursday, April 10th – The Cobalt
Glyph
Tower Hill
Red Cain
Serpent Rider
Crüzer

Friday, April 11th – The Cobalt
Greyhawk
Lunar
Solarus
Tylor Dory Trio
The Astral Prophets

Saturday, April 12th – The Rickshaw Theatre
Enforcer
Psychostick
Crimson Shadows
AfterTime
Luminator

To follow updates for Hyperspace Metal Festival 2024, please visit the following links:
Facebook.com/HyperspaceMetalFestival
Instagram.com/HyperspaceMetalFestival

Festival Press Materials Dropbox HERE.

Over the five editions of Hyperspace Metal Festival, bands from all over the world have come to play power, prog, melodic death, and speed metal on the Canadian West Coast. The festival has presented lineups that have included performances by Týr, Flotsam and Jetsam, Skelator, Trollfest, Aether Realm, Exmortus, Striker, Riot City, Into Eternity, Witherfall, Planeswalker, Iron Kingdom, Helion Prime, Ravenous, Crimson Shadows, West of Hell, Judicator, Odinfist, Tanagra, Scythia, Greyhawk, The Order of Chaos, Red Cain, and many more.

– 30 –

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0 EPK – PHEAR – Save Our Souls (2025)

February 10, 2025
by Asher
· EPKs · PHEAR

EPK – PHEAR – Save Our Souls (2025)

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

For fans of Iron Maiden, Megadeth, Judas Priest, Dream Theater (Prog elements), Metallica

“Very excited to finally release the latest Phear Album!!!!! 4 years in the making.
This album was pretty much written and recorded over the COVID-19 pandemic, thus the duration of this project. The bulk of this record was written at our own houses individually. When the restrictions were lifted, we were able to get together and craft them into the songs you hear today. We shot the videos before the album was completed. We would go into the studio and do 3 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. Despite COVID-19, it was our best work and best environment thus far. I can’t wait for the next Album….lol!!!” – Patrick Mulock – Vocals – PHEAR

Band: Phear
Album Title: “Save Our Souls”
Release Date: February 13, 2025
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Golden Robot Records

Phearofficial.com | Facebook.com/phearband | X.com/spreadthephear | Instagram.com/spreadthephear | Youtube.com/@phear2885

Spotify | Apple Music

Album Pre-Save – (Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon) – https://orcd.co/save-our-souls

““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)

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Band: Phear
Album Title: “Save Our Souls”
Release Date: February 13, 2025
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Golden Robot Records

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)
Single Artwork for “Save Our Souls”: Drake Mefestta
Album Artwork for “Save Our Souls”: Drake Mefestta
Single Artwork for “Snake”: Chris Boshis

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

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

About The Album Artwork:
The “Save Our Souls” album artwork is an apocalyptic world with our Mascots: Phred and Regan admiring their handy work as they walk through the Chaos they have created.

About the Album (Lyrically and Musically)
…… In a word….”HEAVY”!!! Clearly, this is the heaviest offering from us to date. The Lyrics except for “Lease on Life” are mostly “Dark”. Remember, most of these songs were written during Covid. Not a lot to be happy about during this time.

Track By Track:

1. “AFTERSHOCK”
This song is about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (P.T.S.D.). With wars taking place overseas and in the past, the mental illness that follows is greater than it has ever been. My Father was in World War 2 and the Korean War, so we used to talk about it from time to time.

2. “SAVE OUR SOULS”
Ahhh the title track! This song is written about the state of our world today. In my many years here, I have never seen such division and fear before…. The video is a metaphor.

3. “SNAKE”
Contrary to the video screens, this song is not about snakes…. It is about self-reflection and self-awareness. It’s about changing yourself…… Shedding your old skin for new skin

4. “NARCOSYNTHESIS”
This song is a cover from Nevermore. You would have to ask Jeff Loomis.

5. “NEW WORLD ERROR”
This song deals with all the terrible atrocities going on in the world today. Humans are sometimes the plague of humanity.

6. “LEASE ON LIFE”
The most positive song on the album. This is about personal change. Take your life back, make the changes, and move forward as the new and improved you!

7. “BLEED”
Bleed is about lost connections. Some can be mended, and some are lost forever. Maybe there will be a day when enemies can come together and purge the demons of their past.

8. “ON THIN ICE”
This song deals with all the crazy thoughts going on in human heads and the fine line between sanity and insanity…..The human race is on thin ice.

9. “DELUSIONS”
Delusions is a live track recorded in Toronto, CANADA. It’s a bonus track to thank all the fans who come to see us live.

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

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

Canadian metal contingent PHEAR will unleash their second full-length album “Save Our Souls” on February 13th, 2025 with digital distribution from Golden Robot Records. The new record follows the band’s award-winning album “Instanitarium” (2019), and their critically acclaimed EP “The Curse Lives On” (2020).

With their arena-caliber sound, “Save Our Souls” was produced, mixed, and mastered by Jon Howard (Threat Signal), and can be best described as the heaviest offering from PHEAR to date. Most of the album was written during the dark times of Covid. “Not a lot to be happy about during that time,” adds vocalist Patrick Mulock.

Extremely passionate and driven, PHEAR is always thinking of new ways to entertain its fans, and “Save Our Souls” is no exception. It has taken four years to complete (mostly due to covid). 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.

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 lead singles, the album’s title track and “Snake” are sure to make you throw up your hail horns and rock out with a sore neck from the headbanging. 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 sophomore album “Save Our Souls” is available from Golden Robot Records at the following link (Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon) – https://orcd.co/save-our-souls

‘Save Our Souls’ 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

Discography
2025 – “Save Our Souls” LP Release Date: Feb 13 2025
2020 – “The Curse Live On” LP (RFL Records)
2018 – “Insanitarium” LP (RFL Records)

Shared Stage with: The Iron Maidens, Operas, Varga, Stryper, The Dead Daisies, Hookers and Blow, Udo Dirkschneider, Dead Romantics, Fate Gear, Threat Signal, Iron Maidens (alternate stage), Sven Gali

Corporate Sponsors/ Artist endorsements
Phear – Insanitarium Entertainment
Patrick Mulock – Audix Microphones, Erikson Music, Metal Mafia Clothing
Chris Boshis – Spectar Basses
Mike Harshaw – Yamaha Drums, Paiste Cymbals, Los Cobos Drumsticks

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