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Category: Deadwood

0 Montreal’s DEADWOOD Unleashes “Tales of Massacre”, A Brutal Glimpse Into Upcoming EP “Rituals of a Dying Light” (Innerstrength Records)

  • October 29, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Deadwood · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 29, 2025

Montreal’s DEADWOOD Unleashes “Tales of Massacre”

A Brutal Glimpse Into Upcoming EP “Rituals of a Dying Light” (Innerstrength Records)

L-R – Fred Element (Guitar), Charles Etienne Lafrance (Drums), Stephane Filion (Guitar), Derek Heynekamp (Vocals)

Photo Credit – Fred Element

Canadian deathcore juggernaut Deadwood has dropped their latest single, “Tales of Massacre”, a blistering and terrifying track inspired by the Salem witch trials. The song is the second single from their upcoming concept EP, “Rituals of a Dying Light,” set to release on January 9, 2026, via Innerstrength Records.

Formed in 2020 with the mission to “Make Deathcore Angry Again,” Deadwood has carved a reputation for delivering music that’s angry, aggressive, dark, heavy, and intense. Their latest offering is no exception; “Tales of Massacre” blends brutal technicality with eerie atmosphere, pushing the boundaries of modern deathcore while staying true to the genre’s roots.
​
​Deadwood’s forthcoming EP, “Rituals of a Dying Light,” plunges listeners into a concept-driven nightmare, where each track draws from real-life horrors and urban legends. From tales of demonic possession to infamous historical crimes, the band channels the macabre through punishing riffs and eerie lyricism. The EP features chilling narratives like “Heretic,” a brooding account of a nun overtaken by darkness, layered with piercing solos that cut through the gloom. “Thirst for Blood” delivers a vampiric frenzy, blending punk-tinged rhythms with a dangerously infectious chorus. “Whisper of Death” slows the tempo for a sinister dive into the psyche of Jack the Ripper, while “Echoes of the Fallen” closes the record with a haunting instrumental drenched in lead guitar and ominous atmosphere. Marking a new chapter in Deadwood’s evolution, the EP introduces solos and melodic leads for the first time—adding depth without sacrificing the band’s trademark aggression.

“We wanted this release to be scarier, heavier, and more extreme,” says founding member Fred Element

Deadwood’s lineup includes veterans of the Quebec metal scene, Fred Element (ex-Plasma Riffle, ex-Ion Dissonance), Stephane Filion (ex-Nova Spei), and Charles-Etienne Lafrance (Discovery Through Torment, ex-Dismayed).​
​
Their writing process is collaborative, with each member adding their own flavor to Fred’s initial compositions. Lyrics are crafted to match the music’s atmosphere, drawing inspiration from horror, real-life tragedies, and the darker aspects of existence.
​
​Deadwood’s live performances are known for their chaotic, horror-infused energy. Their stage presence is designed to evoke terror — not just a band playing music, but a visual and sonic assault.

“We don’t do small talk or funny vibes. We want to scare you. We want you to feel uneasy,” the band explains.
​
Having toured Japan and the U.S., including a standout performance at Inkarceration Festival, Deadwood is now preparing to conquer Europe in 2026. Their relentless drive and commitment to intensity have earned them spots alongside acts like Humanity’s Last Breath, Born of Osiris, and Traitors.
​
With “Tales of Massacre” setting the tone, Deadwood promises more music is already on the way.

“We chose five tracks that share the same dark atmosphere. But we’re not done yet, fans can expect a lot from us, sooner than you think,” adds the band.
​
For fans of Meshuggah, Whitechapel, Despised Icon, All Shall Perish, and Behemoth, Deadwood is a must-listen. Their sound is a terrifying blend of death metal and hardcore, crafted for those who crave pure brutality.
​
​“Rituals of a Dying Light” drops January 9, 2026, via Innerstrength Records.

Listen now: “Tales of Massacre” on YouTube – https://youtu.be/kqpk5XQXrSQ

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://hypeddit.com/deadwood/talesofmassacre-1

More info: https://linktr.ee/Deadwood.band | https://innerstrengthrecords.com/

-30-

“If you ever wondered what Al Swearengen might listen to if he was living in modern times, here’s your answer, c*********. Montreal’s Deadwood have been around town for a decade now, and pride themselves on evolving into a more savage animal with each release. In December, 2022, they released Inhuman, an EP that is hell bent on making deathcore brutal again.” – Metal Sucks: Deathcore in the North – 10 Canadian Deathcore Bands

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
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0 EPK – Deadwood – Rituals of a Dying Light (2026) (Innerstrength Records)

  • October 28, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Deadwood · EPKs

EPK – Deadwood –  Rituals of a Dying Light (2026) (Innerstrength Records)

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

“For fans of Meshuggah and Whitechapel, this EP is the darkest Deadwood has to date. We are very proud of it, and it is a big step in the next chapter of the band. It was all recorded and mixed at EMNT studios, and came out amazing. Lyrically about horror and real-life stories, it gives a bleak and heavy listening  experience” – Deadwood

For fans of Whitechapel, Despised Icon, Meshuggah, Chelsea Grin, Thy Art Is Murder

Band: Deadwood
EP Title: Rituals of a Dying Light
EP Release Date: January 9, 2026
Label: Innerstrength Records
Genre: Deathcore
Location, Montreal, QC, Canada

Linktr.ee/Deadwood.band | Deadwoodmetal.com | Facebook.com/deadwood666 | Instagram.com/deadwood_bd | Youtube.com/@Deadwood.666

Deadwood666.bandcamp.com | Spotify

Innerstrengthrecords.com

“If you ever wondered what Al Swearengen might listen to if he was living in modern times, here’s your answer, c*********. Montreal’s Deadwood have been around town for a decade now, and pride themselves on evolving into a more savage animal with each release. In December, 2022, they released Inhuman, an EP that is hell bent on making deathcore brutal again.” – Metal Sucks: Deathcore in the North – 10 Canadian Deathcore Bands

Band: Deadwood
EP Title: Rituals of a Dying Light
EP Release Date: January 9, 2026
Label: Innerstrength Records
Genre: Deathcore
Location, Montreal, QC, Canada

Track Listing:
1. Tales of Massacre – (2:48)
2. Heretic – (4:22)
3. Thirst for Blood – (2:49)
4. Whispers of Death – (4:06)
5. Echoes of the Fallen – (3:35)

EP Credits:
All songs performed by Deadwood
All songs written by Deadwood
Produced-Mixed-Mastered at EMNT studios
Album Artwork by Noah Zark

Album Lineup
Fred Element – Guitar
Stephane Filion – Guitar
Charles-Etienne Lafrance – Drums
Martin Demontigny – Vocals

Live Lineup
Fred Element – Guitar
Stephane Filion – Guitar
Charles-Etienne Lafrance – Drums
Derek Heynekamp – Vocals

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

About The EP Artwork:

It’s a dark piece that lets you make your own thoughts on it, while giving a dark and creepy vibe.

About the EP as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY)

This is a concept EP; lyrically, all the songs are horror stories inspired by real events or urban legends. The goal with this one was to make the band go in a darker direction. Musically, we wanted to become more extreme, faster, and heavier. It is the first time we do solos and have lots of lead guitar sections, bringing a new dimension to our sound. The songs are catchier, and we spent more time on the songwriting for this release. It is a step in our next direction and a taste of things to come.

Track by Track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY)

1. Tales of Massacre is a song about the Salem witch trials. We wanted to dive into real events and real-life horrors. It gives the song a dark and creepy atmosphere on top of the brutality. The song is a step in our next direction, more brutal, aggressive, and technical. It has faster parts, but also the groove and the heavy parts that people know us for.

2. Heretic was the first single of the Ep. Inspired both by true events and  urban legends, this song is about a nun possessed by the devil. It features a dark atmosphere, slow and heavy riffs, and tasty solos. It is the song we chose for the music video, and it was the first of the EP to be performed live

3. Thirst for Blood is also lyrically about horror. Thirst for Blood is another brutal song that adds a catchy chorus and punk-inspired drum beats to the EP. Fast and catchy, this song about vampires is a guaranteed earworm

4. Whisper of Death continues the theme of horror; this one is all about Jack the Ripper. Being a true story adds to the creepy vibe of the EP. Being slower and more groove-oriented, it is one of the most unique and different songs on the EP, while still keeping the same atmosphere going.

5. Echoes of the Fallen is the last song on the EP and the only instrumental. Dark and catchy, it has many guitar leads and solos, without forgetting about the heavy riffs. A great way to end the EP.

Left to Right: Fred Element (Guitar), Charles Etienne Lafrance (Drums), Stephane Filion (Guitar), Derek Heynekamp (Vocals)

Photo Credit – Fred Element

Deadwood, formed by Fred Element in Montreal, Canada, in September 2020, is a band that uniquely blends death metal and hardcore to create a modern deathcore sound. Known for their heavy music and dark lyrics, their motto is “Make Deathcore Angry Again.” The band aims to evoke terror and fear through their music, ensuring their performances are unforgettable and never content with a quiet crowd.

In early 2022, Deadwood recorded their first demo, “Nemesis,” followed by “InHuman in 2023, which was later released on all music platforms. They have since released singles like “Djinn’s Pits”, “Straightblade,” and “Heretic,”.

By November 2024, the band welcomed Steph Filion as their new lead guitarist, replacing Sébastien Bélanger, and brought a new level of brutality and technicality. Martin Demontigny joined as a vocalist for a short time. Charles-Etienne Lafrance completed the lineup as the new drummer, replacing Louis-Philippe Dumoulin, who left due to health issues, and Sam Matt, formerly bassist, leaves the band and will not be replaced.

In June 2024, they signed with EMG (Extreme Management Group) and recorded a new EP, “Rituals of a Dying Light,” featuring five new songs. They also produced a music video for the song “Heretic” to support the EP’s release.

Since then, Deadwood has performed at numerous shows and festivals, sharing the stage with local and international acts like Humanity’s Last Breath, Born of Osiris, Traitors, Upon a Burning Body, and many more. They toured Japan and the USA, performing at the Inkarceration Festival in Mansfield, Ohio, and are set to add Europe to the list.

Deadwood distinguishes itself in the metal scene with its brutal sound, creating an unforgettable auditory experience. Their music caters to enthusiastic metalheads who crave pure brutality and violence. The band is committed to professionalism and giving their all in every performance, embodying determination and passion.

With their latest signing to Innerstrength Records for the release of their debut EP “Rituals of a Dying Light” on January 9, 2026, the coming year promises to be busy for Deadwood.

0 Canada’s Deadwood Announces USA Tour Dates + New Horrifying Deathcore Video “Heretic”

  • May 1, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Deadwood

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 1, 2025

Canada’s Deadwood Announces USA Tour Dates + New Horrifying Deathcore Video “Heretic”

L-R – Fred Element – Guitar, Martin Demontigny – Vocals, Charles-Etienne Lafrance – Drums, Stephane Filion – Lead Guitar

Returning from their recent Japan tour this past April, Montreal, Canada’s deathcore outfit Deadwood announces their next trek with four USA tour dates this coming July, which includes a performance during this year’s Inkcarceration Festival (dates listed below).

“We’re extremely excited about this opportunity! We are going to do the after-show of one of the biggest festivals in North America, Inkcarceration Fest, and spread the metal to our metalhead family to the south!”

Other Dates:​
May 24 – Quebec City, QC – Quartier de Lune w/ Burning The Oppressor, Unpunished
June 14 – St-Calixte, QC – VodFest
​
​USA Tour Dates:​
July 16 – Albany, NY – Empire Underground
July 17 – Pittsburgh, PA – The Smiling Moose
July 18 – Mansfield, OH – Inkcarceration Festival (Campground Performance)
July 22 – Hampton Beach, NH – Wally’s

In additional news, Deadwood unveiled their most harrowing work to date with “Heretic”, the lead single from their upcoming EP “Rituals of A Dying Light” slated for release later this year. The accompanying video plunges viewers into a nightmarish realm that perfectly complements the band’s brutal, fast-paced sonic assault. The single’s release coincides with Deadwood‘s upcoming Japan tour (dates listed below) alongside Humanity’s Last Breath and DVRK, further cementing their place in the international extreme metal scene. The comment on the single and what the audience should expect:

“This is the first song we’ve written for the next EP and one of the ones we’re most proud of: it’s fast, heavy, and technical. We are a very intense show with a very percussive and tight guitar sound. We have a lot of samples between the songs to create a horror movie atmosphere. The fans go back home with a slap in the face. Heretic represents our darkest material yet.”

The Montreal-based collective, known for its mission to ‘Make Deathcore Angry Again,’ draws inspiration from centuries-old horror stories and myths. The track delivers the uncompromising heaviness and terrifying atmosphere that have become Deadwood‘s signature since its 2020 formation. The band’s unique blend of death metal and hardcore elements reaches new heights of intensity with this release, promising an unforgettable auditory experience for fans who crave pure brutality. They are recommended for fans of Whitechapel, Despised Icon, and Meshuggah.

Watch and listen to the music video for “Heretic” via Slam Worldwide at https://youtu.be/qd3b7p4zTug

​

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/41ZoUpS​

More info: https://linktr.ee/Deadwood.band​

-30-

“If you ever wondered what Al Swearengen might listen to if he was living in modern times, here’s your answer, c*********. Montreal’s Deadwood have been around town for a decade now, and pride themselves on evolving into a more savage animal with each release. In December, 2022, they released Inhuman, an EP that is hell bent on making deathcore brutal again.” – Metal Sucks: Deathcore in the North – 10 Canadian Deathcore Bands

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

0 Canada’s Deadwood Unleashes Horrifying Deathcore Video “Heretic” As Japan Tour Kicks Off!

  • April 4, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Deadwood · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 4, 2025

Canada’s Deadwood Unleashes Horrifying Deathcore Video “Heretic” As Japan Tour Kicks Off!

L-R – Fred Element – Guitar, Martin Demontigny – Vocals, Charles-Etienne Lafrance – Drums, Stephane Filion – Lead Guitar

Montreal, Canada’s deathcore outfit Deadwood has unveiled their most harrowing work to date with “Heretic”, the lead single from their upcoming EP “Rituals of A Dying Light” slated for release later this year. The accompanying video plunges viewers into a nightmarish realm that perfectly complements the band’s brutal, fast-paced sonic assault. The single’s release coincides with Deadwood‘s upcoming Japan tour (dates listed below) alongside Humanity’s Last Breath and DVRK, further cementing their place in the international extreme metal scene. The comment on the single and what the audience should expect:

“This is the first song we’ve written for the next EP and one of the ones we’re most proud of: it’s fast, heavy, and technical. We are a very intense show with a very percussive and tight guitar sound. We have a lot of samples between the songs to create a horror movie atmosphere. The fans go back home with a slap in the face. Heretic represents our darkest material yet.”

The Montreal-based collective, known for its mission to ‘Make Deathcore Angry Again,’ draws inspiration from centuries-old horror stories and myths. The track delivers the uncompromising heaviness and terrifying atmosphere that have become Deadwood‘s signature since its 2020 formation. The band’s unique blend of death metal and hardcore elements reaches new heights of intensity with this release, promising an unforgettable auditory experience for fans who crave pure brutality.

Following their Japan tour, Deadwood will continue building momentum with performances across several U.S. cities this summer, including a spot at the prestigious Inkarceration Festival in Mansfield, Ohio. They are recommended for fans of Whitechapel, Despised Icon, and Meshuggah.

Watch and listen to the music video for “Heretic” via Slam Worldwide at https://youtu.be/qd3b7p4zTug

​Spotify – https://spoti.fi/41ZoUpS​

Japan Tour – Humanity’s Last Breath, DVRK, Deadwood
​
April 12 – Tokyo, JP – Garret
April 13 – Tokyo, JP – Cyclone
April 14 – Nagoya, JP – Imaike 3Star
April 15 – Osaka, JP – Socore Factory

More info: https://linktr.ee/Deadwood.band​

-30-

“If you ever wondered what Al Swearengen might listen to if he was living in modern times, here’s your answer, c*********. Montreal’s Deadwood have been around town for a decade now, and pride themselves on evolving into a more savage animal with each release. In December, 2022, they released Inhuman, an EP that is hell bent on making deathcore brutal again.” – Metal Sucks: Deathcore in the North – 10 Canadian Deathcore Bands

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

0 EPK – Deadwood – Heretic (2025) (single)

  • April 4, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Deadwood · EPKs · Music News

EPK – Deadwood – Heretic (2025) (single)

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

For fans of Whitechapel, Despised Icon, Meshuggah, Chelsea Grin, Thy Art Is Murder

“This is the first song we’ve written for the next EP, and one of the ones we’re most proud of: it’s fast, heavy, and technical. We are a very intense show with a very percussive and tight guitar sound. We have a lot of samples between the songs to create a horror movie atmosphere. The fans go back home with a slap in the face. Heretic represents our darkest material yet.” – Deadwood

Linktr.ee/Deadwood.band | Deadwoodmetal.com | Facebook.com/deadwood666 | Instagram.com/deadwood_bd | Youtube.com/@Deadwood.666

Deadwood666.bandcamp.com | Spotify

“If you ever wondered what Al Swearengen might listen to if he was living in modern times, here’s your answer, c*********. Montreal’s Deadwood have been around town for a decade now, and pride themselves on evolving into a more savage animal with each release. In December, 2022, they released Inhuman, an EP that is hell bent on making deathcore brutal again.” – Metal Sucks: Deathcore in the North – 10 Canadian Deathcore Bands

Japan Tour – Humanity’s Last Breath, DVRK, Deadwood
​
April 12 – Tokyo, JP – Garret

April 13 – Tokyo, JP – Cyclone
April 14 – Nagoya, JP – Imaike 3Star
April 15 – Osaka, JP – Socore Factory

Band: Deadwood
Single Title: Heretic (off upcoming EP “Rituals of A Dying Light”)
Single Length: 4:23
Release Date: April 4th, 2025
Label: EMNT Production

Single Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Deadwood
• All songs written by: Deadwood
• Produced by: Fred Element
• Mixed by: Fred Element
• Mastered by: Fred Element

Band Line Up:
Fred Element – Rhythm Guitar
Martin Demontigny – Vocals
Stephane Filion – Lead Guitar
Charles Etienne Lafrance – Drums

 

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

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. In 2023, we had a show in Fredericton, but our singer at the time couldn’t make it, so it was Fred sang most of the songs. Luckily a friend from the band was there with us.

2. During a show in Quebec, Martin had a big problem with his in-ears, so Fred lent him his and Fred played the whole show without hearing the click.

3 . During the Rockfest festival, the festival workers disconnected our sound system.

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

L-R – Fred Element – Guitar, Martin Demontigny – Vocals, Charles-Etienne Lafrance – Drums, Stephane Filion – Lead Guitar

Deadwood, formed by Fred Element in Montreal, Canada, in September 2020, is a band that uniquely blends death metal and hardcore to create a modern deathcore sound.

Known for their heavy music and dark lyrics, their motto is “Make Deathcore Angry Again. ” The band aims to evoke terror and fear through their music, ensuring their performances are unforgettable and never content with a quiet crowd.

In early 2022, Deadwood recorded their first demo, “Nemesis,” followed by “InHuman in 2023,” which was later released on all music platforms. They have since released singles like “Djinn’s Pits”, “Straightblade,” and “Heretic,”.

By November 2024, the band welcomed Steph Filion as their new lead guitarist, replacing Sébastien Bélanger and bringing a new level of brutality and technicality. Mart Demontigny joined as the new vocalist, replacing Derek Heynekamp, and  Charles-Etienne Lafrance completed the lineup as the new drummer, replacing Louis-Philippe Dumoulin, who left due to health issues and Sam Matt former bassist, left the band and will not be replaced.

In June 2024, they signed with EMG (Extreme Management Group) and recorded a new EP, “Rituals of a Dying Light, ” featuring five new songs. They also produced a music video for the song “Heretic” to support the EP’s release.

Since then, Deadwood has performed at numerous shows and festivals, sharing the stage with local and international acts like Born of Osiris, Traitors, Upon a Burning Body, and many more.

They are set to tour Japan with Humanity’s Last Breath and DVRk and will also tour several U.S. cities this summer to promote their EP. Additionally, they will perform at the Inkarceration Festival in Mansfield, Ohio.

Deadwood distinguishes itself in the metal scene with its brutal sound, creating an unforgettable auditory experience. Their music caters to enthusiastic metalheads who crave pure brutality and violence. The band is committed to professionalism and giving their all in every performance, embodying determination and passion.

With several projects in development, the coming years promise to be busy for Deadwood.

Shared Stage with: Born of Osiris, Traitors, Upon A Burning Body

Tours and Festivals:
2025 – Japan Tour Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka
2024 – Montreal Deathcore Fest
2024 – No Kings On This Tour
2023 – Oshawa Metal Fest
2023 – Spring Breakdown Tour

 

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