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Category: EPKs

0 EPK – Alienatör – Regrets (2022)

  • October 8, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · Alienator · EPKs

EPK – Alienatör – Regrets (2022)

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

“Fans will recognize a harder-hitting sound, more depth in songwriting, increased dynamics, and darker themes, along with more vulnerable and introspective lyrics. We’ve matured and grown as musicians. New drummer Simon has added a lot of depth to the sound, and bass player Sean becoming part of the writing process has added a new dimension. The band is a more cohesive unit and it shows in the material.” – Alienator

For fans of Unsane, Converge, Cursed, Botch, Jesus Lizard

Band: Alienator
Release Date: November 25, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Distrokid

Exitmusicstudio.ca/alienator/ | Facebook.com/alienatorband | Instagram.com/alienatorband

Spotify| Alienator.bandcamp.com

“… Thunder Bay is a small outpost literally in the middle of nowhere. It’s not the sort of place you’d expect a top-notch noise rock/metal band playing in the sonic neighbourhood of Unsane, Botch, the Jesus Lizard, Cursed and KEN Mode’s metallic mid-period. Local racket makers Alienatör are here to represent the town and crush as many myths as possible, at least until they start hitting on the road on the heels of their latest album, Regrets which is the kind of gloriously powerful and virtually flawless album that rigorous touring schedules and proverbial world domination through music the mainstream masses don’t listen to or understand is built upon.” – Decibel Magazine

“Aggression is the name of the game in the latest offering from Thunder Bay, Ontario crew ALIENATÖR. Brad King (guitar, vox), Sean Skillen (bass, vox), and Simon Paquette (drums) pack a big wallop for a band of three. Their sound is a hash of sludge, hardcore, noise, and crust, with a message that’s urgent and dire… Regrets plays out like a nervous breakdown, but a damned exhilarating one.” – Doomed and Stoned

“this is a free-wheeling and cathartic album that’s worth attention. The more people who hear Regrets, the more fans it will earn…”- No Clean Singing

“Regrets goes for the throat from the first track. This is a different band from their debut album. For one, the line-up has been solid for years. Brad King still mans guitars and vocals, the ever-reliable Sean Skillen provides bass and backing screams, and not-so-new drummer Simon Paquette shows just why he was such a catch with propulsive, inventive skin bashing. Alienatör’s new songs may be misanthropic, but they’re also exciting, with a unique blend of the downtrodden sounds of punk, sludge, noise, and crust. There’s more room to breathe on each track, which makes the multitude of twists and turns hit a lot harder—by second listen you’ll be screaming right along with the choruses. It’s tough to pick favourites, but the band did you a favour by filming three live-from-the-basement videos that showcase the intensity.” – The Walleye (Thunder Bay, ON)

“If you want just a taste of how garish Alienatör’s sound is, just give the first track on this album a go. It’s called Revisionist History and in a little over two minutes, it showcases a thick and syrupy heaviness and coarse level of noise. It’s nasty to the ears but there’s something so fascinating about the anguish that comes from it. This is Alienatör and they are only getting started here.” – GAMES, BRRRAAAINS & A HEAD-BANGING LIFE

“Huge riffs, massive bass grooves, some excellent catchy melodies, and black/death metal vocals make this an interesting listen. The vocals will be an acquired taste but suit the soundtrack. Every song is different but they’re all raw, dynamic, and dark. These guys have hit upon their sound, and they sound great. If you’re after something heavy and different, then go for this because this is impressive.” – My Global Mind

“Channeling rage and catharsis before lulling the listener into a sense of security and then thundering down again into a feedback-drenched conclusion as “The Priest” demonstrates.” – Metal Noise

“Combining punk, hardcore, sludge metal, and noise rock elements into a stripped-down package, full of razor-sharp riffs and memorable hooks, ALIENATÖR punches up tenaciously every step of the way.” – Idioteq

“What is immediately striking in their music is the importance of the bass, which unfolds in arabesques around you, like an enormous grass snake, the true backbone of their Metal. We discover very good titles ranging from Noise Rock (“Revisionist History”), to Hardcore in fast mode (“The Less Dead”), flirting with light dissonance (“Flat Hearth Society”), sometimes reminiscent of universe of Unsane (Irreconcilable).” – Soil Chronicles

“this Power trio practices a mixture of Post Hardcore, Noise Rock, Sludge, which gives their musical universe a modern aspect, slightly gloomy and icy, sometimes heavy, Heavy, Groovy, on the border between catchy melodies and Rock almost dissonant. They manage, I find, to qualify their remarks with a certain art. What is immediately striking in their music is the importance of the bass, which unfolds in arabesques around you, like an enormous grass snake, the true backbone of their Metal.” – Soil Chronicles

“Alienatör do not beat about the bush and instead seize the zeitgeist by the sensitive parts. Driven by a savage mix of Sludge, Hardcore Punk and early Black Sabbath, the Thunder Bay-based trio shoots massive blows against the darkness that defines life on Earth these days. This is the moshpit to grind down the Flat Earth Society to.” – Mangowave-Magazine

“To Canada for a slab of stoner sludge guaranteed to have you tapping your foot…possibly banging your head but definitely enjoying your start to the day for hearing this. – Metallum Sub Terra

“What I like about this album is both the slightly underground aspect, the melodies used, the distinctive claw, everything evolving in a balanced way. Also, a power trio, always sounds good when it comes to sonic impact, which is the case here; and then, in general, this kind of universe is made for connoisseurs, lovers of post and noise, while there, some titles it is, except the screaming voice, can be enjoyed by the lambda listener.” – Olivier No Limit

“Noisy post-hardcore sludge, full of energy and rage… a genuine ass-kicker of a record.” – Decibel

“This band is burly, grimy, and the sonic manifestation of discontent. If it’s motivational music you seek, back away slowly. Alienatör ply their trade in the margins of metal, with elements of sludge, noise rock, hardcore, heavy metal, and crust punk. Listeners of Pariahs, the band’s debut full-length, will hear shades of Unsane, Red Fang, Cursed, Kvelertak, Acid Bath, and Cancer Bats, among other guitar-heavy acts by whom sophistication and polish are eschewed.” – Lambgoat

“Pariahs shows Alienatör firing all of their creative cylinders and marks a multifaceted, all-consuming sludge opera delivered with convincing force and accents.” – Idioteq

“Gritty, high-octane sludge…” – Metal Trenches

“From beginning to end Alienatör offers up a truly murky, chunky yet noise filled sound that tears at your ear drums, but in the best possible way. Each track is a madhouse of artery stopping, head banging sludge and noise rock that you cannot simply turn away from.” – Cadaver Garden

“Alienator are miserable and they’d like you to join them.” – Lambgoat

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Band: Alienator
Release Date: November 25, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Distrokid

Track Listing:
1. Revisionist History – 2:10
2. Loss Leader – 4:03
3. Blood Red Blood – 3:08
4. Regrets – 3:44
5. The Priest – 5:30
6. The Less Dead – 1:56
7. Flat Earth Society – 2:51
8. Irreconcilable – 2:59
9. Your Funeral – 3:20
10. Wounded Birds – 4:10
11. Dark Matters – 4:09
Album Length: 38:04

Album Recording Credits:
– All songs performed by: Alienator
– Music by Alienator
– Lyrics by Brad King
– Produced by: Sean Skillen
– Mixed by: Sean Skillen
– Mastered by: Brad Boatright
– Album Artwork by: Peter David Wragg
– Member of SOCAN
– Canadian Content (MAPL)

Album and Live Line Up:
Brad King – Vocals, Guitar
Sean Skillen – Bass, Vocals
Simon Paquette – Drums

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

The album as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY) explained:

Dark and cathartic, exploring personal themes, as well as racism, and abuse of power in Canada and the erosion of truth we’ve seen in modern times.

Track by track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY) explained:

Revisionist History –  Right out of the gate we have the rhythm section carrying the song before a snakey guitar line weaves in over top. That’s something we weren’t able to do when we wrote the first album as a 2-piece. The odd-time signature gives it an off-kilter feel. The lyrics are about the erosion of truth in our public discourse and the dangerous narcissists who create their own reality and try to shove it down our throats.

Loss Leader – This song is about grief and loss, especially as a result of the opioid crisis. I’ve experienced a lot of deaths and tragedies personally and professionally and this song is about dealing with that. Musically, it’s got a proggier feel than anything we’ve done previously and a bit of a middle-eastern influence. It’s also the first song this line-up of the band wrote together. 

Blood Red Blood – This opening riff is one I had kicking around for a while. We counted it as 9/8 or something wacky. Sean wrote the rest of the music around it. I like the breakdown in the middle a lot. The title was inspired by the Wilco song Sky Blue Sky, so there’s an influence you probably weren’t expecting. I wrote lyrics about the cycle of violence, toxic masculinity and  how “hurt people hurt people.” Often, what we do to others gets paid back to us in the end; “blood in, blood out.”

Regrets – One of the more heartfelt and emotional songs we’ve done, this one deals with personal struggles and the passage of time. I like the energy and looser feel of it, musically. Sean’s really standing on his head with some of the bass fills on this one, especially in the middle section, but it’s all tasteful and fits perfectly, elevating the whole song. Simon finds interesting ways to fill the empty spaces on the drums. It gives a new dimension to our sound.

The Priest – The darkest song I’ve ever written. This is another one, where the rhythm section really drives the song and the guitar comes in, jagged and angular on top. Ralph Rowe was an Anglican Priest who molested countless kids from fly-in reserves in the 70s and 80s. He ruined so many lives and then plea-bargained for a prison sentence that was a slap on the wrist. There’s a documentary about him called “Survivor’s Rowe.” Here, he serves as an example of the type of abuses of power that we allow those who we place in positions of trust.

We put a lot of work into the dynamics of this one. Lots of tension and release and then the calm atmospheric part toward the end, before we bring the hammer down again.

The Less Dead – The “less dead,” is a term for marginalized members of society who are considered less of a priority for police investigations and are therefore are easy victims for predators. Sex workers, people of colour, people with addictions or mental health issues, members of the LGBTQ community, and the poor fit in this category.

The closest to a straight-ahead punk song on the album but Simon’s crazy tom work in the bridge really elevates it. Very fun to play live.

Flat Earth Society –  Remember when we used to think that increased access to information would make humanity smarter? This song is a reaction to the age of misinformation we currently find ourselves in.

COVID conspiracies, climate denialism, and the age of social media propaganda have altered our perception of reality and divided our society. This song is about the echo chambers we create for ourselves and how we are being manipulated by those in power. We opened for Soulfly before the pandemic and Sean said watching the people bounce up and down on the dance floor while they played contributed to the feel of the breakdown.

Irreconcilable – This one is about Canada’s history of genocide against Indigenous peoples, which was brought back to the forefront of public consciousness when hundreds of graves were found on the sites of former residential schools. This song is about the relationship of denial that white settlers have with colonialism, how we refuse to “reconcile,” what’s been done, and our role in it. Great dynamics in this one, as it ramps up from a slow simmer into a crushing chorus and back down again.

Your Funeral – This one’s a bit different with the tension of the jerky snare-driven rhythm and then the straight-ahead release of the chorus. I find it interesting to juxtapose a kind of uplifting chord progression and driving beat with lyrics that are bleak and depressing. This one’s about being a wage slave, feeling like you’re a cog in the machine, wasting your life, and going through the motions. 

Wounded Birds – This one is a kind of anthem for all the broken people, those who suffer from trauma, depression, substance issues and the like. I’ve had my own struggles so this one’s a bit cathartic, lyrically. Musically, it shows us branching out and experimenting more, adding a lot more depth. 

Dark Matters – A pretty unique tune in our catalogue. It’s about the things that keep you awake at night; lies you’ve told, people you’ve lied cheated, or stolen from. I imagine one of our favourite politicians feeling some of these things late at night if they have any conscience left. It’s fun for me to take on the role of the negative voices in someone’s head, as I do here. Musically, it’s swirling and chaotic with some flashes of light in the darkness and gloom. An unsettling way to fade the record into black.

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

STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS ABOUT THE BAND

1. Recording was done at bass player Sean Skillen’s Exit Music studio. Sean joined the band during the recording of the previous album, adding bass to the already existing guitar and drum tracks. This is the first recording written as a 3-piece with distinct bass and guitar parts.

2. Simon Paquette’s first album as a drummer. Has brought new energy and versatility to the band.

(L to R) Sean Skillen – Bass/Back-up Vocals, Brad King – Guitar/Vocals, Simon Paquette – Drums
Photo Credit – Peter David Wragg

Hailing from Thunder Bay, ON, Canada, Alienatör is a sludge metal band that combines punk, hardcore, and noise rock elements into a stripped-down package, full of razor-sharp riffs and memorable hooks.

Their debut album, “Pariahs,” released in 2109 moves from fast and aggressive to slow and swampy with touches of experimental weirdness. Many of the lyrics are about how we numb ourselves to the pain and disappointment of everyday life.

Fast forward to 2022, and the band is ready to unleash their follow-up, entitled “Regrets,” which introduces new drummer Simon Paquette to the fold. The album is bleak and abrasive, with moments of calm, melody, and beauty to juxtapose against the ugliness. Raw, uncompromising, and dark, it is emotionally heavy music that reflects a chaotic time in history.

“Regrets” is due out November 25, 2022.

Discography:
2022 – Regrets
2019 – Pariahs
2016 – Demo

Shared Stage with:
Soulfly, Anciients, Dead Quiet, Zaum, Toxic Holocaust

Tours and Festivals:
2017 – Tumblestone music festival Lappe ON
2018 – Tumblestone music festival Lappe ON
2019 – Tumblestone music festival Lappe ON
2022 – Tumblestone music festival Lappe ON

0 EPK – Lÿnx – Shake It Up (single) (2022) – Bullzhorn Records

  • October 7, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Lynx (Bullzhorn Records)

EPK – Lÿnx – Shake It Up (single) (2022) – Bullzhorn Records

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

“Every band needs that one fast-paced shake-your-ass kind of song, something to get the ladies moving and the men groovin’ Shake it up has all the feels from the catchy rifts to the furious guitar solo. Strong bass to keep the beat, banging drums you’ll feel in your chest, and a screeching vocal tune that may just have you coming back for more!!! Once again Lÿnx is bringing the party to you!” – Lÿnx

For Fans of Motley Crue, Guns N Roses, Skid Row, Mr. Big, Poison

Single Title: Shake it Up
Release Date Sept 29th, 2022
Label: Bullzhorn Records
Distribution: Distrokid

Lynxrocks.com – Facebook.com/getlynxed – Instagram.com/lynxonig – Tiktok.com/@lynx.tok – Twitter.com/get_lynxed – YouTube

Getlynxed.bandcamp.com – Spotify – Apple Music – Amazon Music – Deezer – Tidal

“Lÿnx is an honest to goodness rock n roll band in a time when rock needs just that. They offer up blistering guitar riffs and solos, melodic choruses, and high energy performances that resemble the spirit of a time long gone by.” Hitonindie.com

“A brilliant release that perfectly builds on the stage that their self-titled EP set. ‘Long Live Rock N Roll’ is a direct unyielding ode to what rock music used to be. A release that’s not for the faint of heart, it’s bold, brash, and wonderfully Brutal. Landing as one of Lÿnx’s defining musical moments” Thomas Bedward – Broken 8 Records

“ Opening tracks can tell you a lot about an album. Sometimes bands come out swinging, and others take a slow burn approach. There’s no slow burn in Lÿnx. And the title track ‘Long Live Rock N Roll’ roars out of your speakers. It features a great guitar solo, fantastic percussion, and drips with 80s glam.” Dave Wilks – CGCM Radio/ Podcast

“This is a really solid, fun band that we’re excited about, and can’t wait to hear what’s next. So, Crank it up and press play!”- MusicNotez Magazine

Lÿnx is a pure rock n’ roll act hailing from Calgary, Canada, and thus far has released two albums to glowing worldwide reception. With records being sold from Spain to Australia, and the UK to Japan it’s clear that the world is ready for rock to come roaring back into the mainstream. Their latest release is a music video for the single “Shake It Off” coming from their forthcoming album “Claws Out”. The band dishes on what’s in store:

“Every band needs that one fast-paced shake your ass kind of song, something to get the ladies moving and the men groovin’. “Shake It Up” has all the feels from the catchy riffs to the furious guitar solo. Strong bass to keep the beat, banging drums you’ll feel in your chest, and a screeching vocal tune that may just have you coming back for more!!! Once again Lÿnx is bringing the party to you!”

For Lÿnx, this isn’t just a hobby, this is a lifestyle, and they want every one of our fans to be as ecstatic as they are about the music they create. With this upcoming release, they are trying to give fans the whole experience. If you want to tour downtown with your girl or your boys and crank up the tunes, they’ve got that, If you want to sit back and chill, and listen to some good rock, they’ve got that too. Having a party? Hell Yeah! Lÿnx should be the first album played!

The band has put a lot of energy and thought into this album, as every artist does. With their new frontman and his extraordinary talent, it’s opened a whole new list of possibilities, and the energy that is Lÿnx has just gone to the next level.

Lÿnx formed as a group that came together with a shared dream of wanting more out of life. All of them have worked jobs they hate, grinding away years of their lives without a legitimate way to live out their dreams. They share this along with one other thing – a burning desire to create. They all love music to their core, and more specifically good old rock n roll. This dream as well as the experiences they’ve had working for someone else has brought them together, and they want to make the most out of their time here.

Lÿnx is perfect for all those with the mantra “Long Live Rock N Roll” especially fans of Motley Crue, Guns N Roses, and Skid Row.

The video for “Shake It Up” is available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/fU-qbZLH5Iw​

The single is available on Getlynxed.bandcamp.com, Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.

Recording and Live Band Lineup:
Ja6ur- Lead Vocals
Blade- Guitar, Back Up Vocals
Fangs- Bass Guitar, Back Up Vocals
Flash- Drums/ Percussion

Single Title: Shake it Up
Release Date Sept 29th, 2022
Label: Bullzhorn Records
Distribution: Distrokid

Single Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Lÿnx
• All songs written by: Lÿnx
• Produced by: Bullzhorn Records
• Mixed by: Priyam Baksi
• Mastered by: Matrix Audio
• Album Artwork by: Bullzhorn Records
• All Members of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Recording and Live Band Lineup:
Ja6ur- Lead Vocals
Blade- Guitar, Back Up Vocals
Fangs- Bass Guitar, Back Up Vocals
Flash- Drums/ Percussion

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

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. Our guitarist blade uses his background in music production to compose a lot of our songs at work without an instrument in his hands. Constantly thinking of different riffs, and beats he then goes home and sees how they can work musically. A lot of work and some don’t but once he has an idea in his head he records it on his phone, goes home grabs a guitar, and starts figuring out how he can make it into the Lÿnx signature sound.

2. Our first show together was a show at the Blind Beggar in Calgary. We put on a 3-band show with us being the headliner to close out the night. We prepared our setlist and hit the stage. After the set, the crowd was demanding an encore, and of course, we didn’t have one. We ended up playing Long Live Rock n Roll again and invited the crowd up to join us on stage and dance out the rest of the show. It was a great moment for the band and the fans loved it, what a great way to close out our first show together.

3. We are all blue-collar workers who have spent years and years grinding away the short time we have on this earth living someone else’s dream. We all decided as a band to create our own path while putting our hearts, soul, and past experiences into our music. Our passion to create music is what drives us while knowing that once we make it we never want to go back to the mundane working life we all know.

4. We want our fans to be taken back to a time long gone that was full of hair, crazy outfits, and rock stars. As well as bring in a new generation who might pass off the music as “our parent’s music” we believe that the rock n roll genre has taken a backseat for a while to other genres which isn’t a bad thing, but we want to make sure that the rock is still alive and make our forefathers proud.

5. Man, we’ve done some wild sh*t. Fangs being raised up a country boy has one of the greatest work ethics for music and partying alike! Just this year he’s had to put party and play together like no other. Fangs: ” I went back to Ontario for my buddy’s wedding, and it was a farm boy’s dream setting up cow troughs for the beer, to get ready in the barn I knew I had to bring some rock-‘n’-roll to the party! So, I got out the guitar, played some tunes around the fire, and before the boys knew it the sun was up, and it was chore time ha! 90 head of cows milked, stalls mucked out of sh*t, and one very unlucky cow that stole my beer and the party continued all the way to the wedding and beyond!” When we say Lÿnx bringing the party you better bet all your money on us!

Lÿnx is an 80s-inspired Hard Rock/ Metal four piece currently based in Calgary, Alberta Canada. During the 2020 pandemic, the band was formed by former vocalist Lazer Wild and Lead Guitarist Blade. Soon after bassist Fangs, and Drummer Flash joined and Lÿnx was formed. The band is currently fronted by Ja6ur on Vocals, Blade on guitar, Fangs on bass, and Flash on Drums/ Percussion. Connected by a shared love of 80s glam metal and hard rock, the band immediately set about writing original songs that embody the style and swagger of the past, while embracing the polished production and down-to-earth grit of their more modern rock influences.

Lÿnx released their debut self-titled EP in February 2021 followed up by their second EP titled “Long Live Rock N Roll” in September 2021 with Bullzhorn Records. Since their releases, the band has gained popularity through various reviews on different media platforms in Europe, Australia, and North America. Having gained a reputation for their anthemic choruses, sizzling guitar solos, and powerhouse vocals Lÿnx has garnered a dedicated and eclectic international fan base. The band has hit the stages with high energy and connected with their audiences through the love of Rock N Roll. The band aims to build on the momentum created by their released music and push their sound into even more extreme levels of Rock N Roll.

Recording and Live Band Lineup:
Ja6ur- Lead Vocals
Blade- Guitar, Back Up Vocals
Fangs- Bass Guitar, Back Up Vocals
Flash- Drums/ Percussion

Discography:
Oct 2022 – Shake It Up – Single
Sept 2020 – Long live Rock N Roll – EP
Feb 2020 – Lÿnx Self-Titled Debut EP

Shared Stage with:
Bloody Monroe, Mixed Blame, Chiliocosm, Faster than Bears, Die Another Day, Orbit the Fox, Haunt the Stars, Plastic Kodiak, Sarafin, What’s the Plan

Tours and Festivals:
Alternative Waves Festival, Medicine Hat Alberta
Decimate Metal Fest, High River Alberta

Artist Endorsements:
Soultone Cymbals
The New Vintage Custom Guitars – Calgary, Alberta
Just Music- Cranbrook, British Colombia

0 EPK – Rising Sun – Archons of Death (single) (2022)

  • October 6, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Rising Sun

EPK – Rising Sun – Archons of Death (single) (2022)

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

“Archons of Death was the 5th song we wrote for the album and it ended up being the opener as we feel it gets straight to the point and was a great way to introduce our listeners to the new sound. It took a while to write, as originally we had planned for it to be much longer and much more intricate, but we decided to cut those parts to keep it simple and memorable. Archons tell the story of these godlike beings of another dimension, who come to “sterilize humankind” as it is their belief that humans are a corrupt and inferior species. Therefore, they wish to “cleanse their souls” by extermination in hopes that they will be reborn as a better and more complete species.

This song is interesting because it is essentially the prequel to the title track, as Archons tells the story from their perspective while “Quest for Absolution” tells the same story from the human’s perspective and how they deal with facing death from these omnipotent beings.” – Rising Sun

For fans of Vektor, Obscura, Coroner, Revocation, Death

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Bandcamp | Spotify | Apple Music

All digital platforms – https://linktr.ee/risingsun

Band: Rising Sun
Single Title: “Archons of Death” (single) off forthcoming album “Quest for Absolution”
Release Date: October 7th, 2022 (single) – Album TBA
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Self-Release

Track Listing:
Archons of Death (3:44)

Single Recording Credits: Diego Fernandez, Oracle Studios
• All songs performed by: Rising Sun
• All songs written by: Kai Sakaguchi, Josh Krishka, Parakram Chauhan
• Produced, Mixed, Mastered by: Diego Fernandez – Oracle Studios
• Artwork by: Joshua Hayward, (Divine Designs)
• Member of SOCAN
• Music is Canadian Content (MAPL)

Recording Band Lineup:
Kai Sakaguchi Lead Guitar/Vocals
Parakram Chauhan: Bass
TBA: Drums

Live Band Lineup:
Kai Sakaguchi
Parakram Chauhan
Josh Krishka

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

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. The album was recorded a bit unconventionally. The guitars were recorded first to a click track, then vocals, then bass. The only thing that is currently missing is the drums, as our prior drummer, Josh had to leave Rising Sun due to an extensive battle with carpal tunnel that has lasted over a year now.

2. The concept for the artwork of the album came while we were watching 2001: a Space Odyssey under the influence of psychedelics. We thought it would be cool and the artist Josh Hayward (Divine Designs) did a great job bringing that image to fruition.

3. The Western Canada tour we completed in September of 2022 was originally supposed to be a Cross Canada tour in support of the album, but unfortunately the album ran into some delays. On the plus side, the tour turned out to be a great success regardless! Something funny that happened on tour was a guy offered us $300 to not play our set and go home! He seemed pretty grumpy, so we ended up dedicating the set to him, we didn’t see him after that.

L-R: Parakram Chauhan (Porkchop) – Bass, Kai Sakaguchi – Guitar/Vocals, Josh Krishka: Drums (former)

Photo by Dana Zuk Photography

Rising Sun is a 3-piece Canadian progressive thrash metal band from Edmonton, Alberta. The band was formed in 2018 from a collection of ambitious and talented kids with a shared interest in interesting music. Their unique brand of entertainment fuses speed and precision with energetic and interactive performances that make you realize there are still many innovative and interesting bands in modern-day metal. Rising Sun had the pleasure of opening for iconic bands such as Warbringer and Enforcer, and was set to open for Flotsam & Jetsam in 2020, however, it was canceled due to COVID -19.

Rising Sun’s EP “Language of the Warrior” was well received and charted at number 1 on the CJSR 88.5 FM charts in Edmonton for multiple weeks. Currently, the band is working on their debut full-length album, titled “Quest for Absolution”, which features a change in the band’s style, as the music is much more technical and progressive than the last effort. The album is set for release in early 2023, with a Canadian tour to follow in support of it.

Recording Band Lineup:
Kai Sakaguchi Lead Guitar/Vocals
Parakram Chauhan: Bass
TBA: Drums

Live Band Line Up:
Kai Sakaguchi
Parakram Chauhan
Josh Krishka

Discography:
2022 – Archons of Death (single)
2019 – Language of the Warrior – EP
2018 – Another Night – Demo
2018 – Battle of Redemption – Demo

Shared Stage with:
Warbringer, Enforcer, WMD, Hyperia, the Unending, Tymo, Syryn and more

Tours and Festivals:
2020 – Decimate Metal Festival 2.5 – Edmonton AB
2022 – Alternate Waves Festival – Medicine Hat, AB
2022 – Decimate Metal Festival 3 – Calgary, AB
2022 – Loud as Hell X – Drumheller, AB

0 EPK – Scattered Storm – In This Dying Sun (2022)

  • October 6, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Scattered Storm

Scattered Storm – In This Dying Sun (2022)

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

EP Title: In This Dying Sun
Release Date: November 11, 2022
Label: Bloodblast Distribution (powered by Nuclear Blast and Believe Digital)
Distribution: Bloodblast Distribution (powered by Nuclear Blast and Believe Digital)

“In This Dying Sun shows a certain evolution from our previous effort. We still implement a lot of our core elements which are ambience, groove and melodies, but with this record, we felt the need to explore faster tempos with machine gun-like riffs. This allowed us to expand on subjects and textures from before. We never lost track of the bigness, especially with Tue Madsen mixing this record. In our talks, I really emphasized that to him, even though songs are faster, we still want them to sound huge. And boy did he deliver. Sonically this record has been the best one. Tue Madsen also mastered it. He was even kind enough to feature our single In This Dying Sun for his drum sample pack through Drum Forge because he really dug the song. We also brought in our new bass player Brian Fausnaugh full fold. He had recorded previously with us in some songs, so It was a no-brainer. Lyrically we still draw from books, movies, series, and whatever draws our attention. For this EP, Andre and I (jay) collaborated closer and wrote more together while the recording process was taking place. The band continues to evolve and In This Dying Sun showcases that.” – Jay Arriaga – Drums, Keyboards, Samples – Scattered Storm

For fans of Fear Factory, Gojira, Messuggah, TesseracT

Facebook.com/scatteredstormband | Instagram.com/scatt_storm | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music
Linktree – https://linktr.ee/scatteredstorm

“Scattered Storm’s second offering delivers an eclectic mix blending various elements of Heavy Metal and Prog. Andre Accosta delivers a very good vocal performance with a multitude of ranges and dynamics to fit the mood of each song. Kevin Armstrong’s guitar style builds a foundation that is well-balanced with the bass and drums. The band is tight with the tempo changes and does a very nice job with the keys, adding an atmospheric and dark ambiance feeling to the songs.” – Metal Express Radio

“9/10 for a record that absolutely repays multiple listens, such is its depth and complexity… ” – Ever-Metal

“In This Dying Sun is one of those EP’s that has a wide array of appeal to those into groove-heavy, progressive, or alternative/industrial-like metal. Scattered Storm fits their band moniker adequately, a quartet poised to make headway in the current marketplace.” – Dead Rhetoric

“There is little doubt that these new cuts are darker and more personal than the first record while there is also a little more bark and bite as if the shackles are off this time around. “Hollow” offers beauty in clean vocals and twisted melodies while Kevin Armstrong’s riffs keep up the energy levels but it’s the stuccato riff breaks of title track “In This Dying Sun” that ignite the fires. Punching like Prong with its tight rhythms, the clean vocals cut against the grain offering a decent balance between melodic and heavy with Accosta having some moments eerily reminiscent of the much missed Matt Holt of Nothingface. That continues into “Seen” before the spine juddering riffs and unclean roar take hold like a designer drug fueled rage in bombastic style. Where Scattered Storm go from here is going to be intriguing given the waves of turbulence and  eccletic violence found here” – Metal Noise

“Quartet Scattered Storm from Texan city El Paso plays Prog Metal for the hard-shelled souls. Their second EP „In This Dying Sun“ is an elegant sword dance between brachial Death Thrash, eloquent Prog and melodic Alternative Metal. One might need more than two ears for this EP, but it is worth it.” – Mangowave Music Magazine

Their music is dark and futuristic with plenty of ambience to balance the heavy.” – New Noise Magazine  (2021 – Oblivion)

“Chugging guitars, punishing drums, brutal, throat throttling vocals… Yep, it’s all here and a lot more with the latest music video for “Necronomicon” from Scattered Storm. Reminding you of what live music used to be all about, the band torches the room in this electric performance video, as an eager audience beholds the musical greatness that is this Texas supergroup.” – V13  (2021 – Oblivion)

“Their sound has been compared to the likes of Fear Factory, Gojira, Messuggah & TesseracT, & their new single, ‘Kingslayer” definitely would fit in the realm of HEAVINESS.” – KLAQ 95.5 FM (El Paso, TX) (2021 – Oblivion)

On their Oblivion EP, Scattered Storm give stomping grooves and bouncy breakdowns a cinematic flair, as electronics and orchestration add dimensions to their sound. Whether it’s the “2001: A Space Odyssey”-inspired ambient outro to “Kingslayer” or the mournful closing ballad “Scattered Storm,” the band doesn’t hesitate to offer different sides to their music, which is a commendable trait for a band in their infancy.” – Heavy Music Headquarters (EP Review 2021 – Oblivion)

““Kingslayer” was chosen as the preceding single and it’s easy to see why as in one single cut, it envelopes the bands sound as a whole, the Stanley Kubrick inspired space like ending being a piece of ambient bliss.” – Metal Noise (EP Review 2021 – Oblivion)

“The band runs through a number of different styles here, from elements of the djent orientation to thrash metal tinged escapades, ambient music as well as majestic gliding synth creations, classic era progressive metal and electronic metal also finds their way on to this EP. The vocal style mainly alternates between clean melodic vocals and a raspier, aggressive one that has something of a hardcore touch to it. That the songs are dynamic is perhaps a detail that should be obvious. An EP for those who like their metal varied, eclectic and probably progressive in nature.” – The Viking In The Wilderness (EP Review 2021 – Oblivion)

“Scattered Storm has produced an EP with ‘Oblivion’ that continues to fascinate. You never really know what’s coming. It can be very strong, especially with the groove in the whole sound and you can also hear that the band dares to experiment.” – Metal Experience (EP Review 2021 – Oblivion)

“The band’s sound taps into groove metal and earlier djent, more Meshuggah than Periphery, while also echoing nu metal on occasion.” – The Progressive Subway (EP Review 2021 – Oblivion)

“From the beginning, there was a very clear understanding of every detail they wanted to incorporate. From the very tuning of the 7 and 8 string guitars and the very specific tonality, they produce the ambience provided by the keyboards to layers and layers of vocals to really convey Acosta’s sound. This is all finished off with the main focus, that catchy riff and rhythm to have the songs stay on people’s minds and headbanging of course.” Hard Rock Heavy Metal (EP Review 2021 – Oblivion)

[Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics]

EP Title: In This Dying Sun
Release Date: November 11, 2022
Label: Bloodblast Distribution (powered by Nuclear Blast and Believe Digital)
Distribution: Bloodblast Distribution (powered by Nuclear Blast and Believe Digital)

Track Listing:
1. Bloody Love – 4:44
2. The Process – 3:49
3. Hollow – 4:16
4. In this Dying Sun – 3:42
5. Seen – 4:49
EP Length: 21:12

EP Recording Credits: Jay Arriaga and Kevin Armstrong
• All songs performed by: Scattered Storm
• All songs written by: Jay Arriaga and Kevin Armstrong
• Produced by: Jay Arriaga and Kevin Armstrong
• Mixed by: Tue Madsen
• Mastered by: Tue Madsen
• Album Artwork by: Marco Pimentel
• Member of ASCAP

Recording and Live Band Line Up:
Jay Arriaga – Drums, Keyboards, Samples
Kevin Armstrong – Guitar
Brian Fausnaugh – Bass
Andre Accosta – Vocals

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

The album as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY) explained:

In This Dying Sun takes off from where Oblivion left off, but it felt even more darker and proggy. It still has the hooks but the vocals have evolved more and synths took a back step for more guitar work. Some of the songs are faster-paced as well giving it a more driving force.

Track by track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY) explained:

1. Bloody Love. Bloody Love deals with toxic relationships in a nutshell. How we sometimes succumb to the other party and let ourselves go even if it’s destroying us inside. The music emulates the brutal emotional aspects going through our heads. The ending is the culmination of that torture by being like an addict and asking for more of that painful love.

2. The Process. Talks about our evolution as human beings and how the systematic process imposed by our daily routines has left us empty, slaving into the future with no sense of self. Basically just being cattle being pulled from one end to the other and not having a say about it. Ultimately trying to break free and set the process on fire.

3. Hollow. This song talks about the process of putting yourself back together after being broken to the core.  Pretty much burying a dead feeling, love or anything that causes us so much pain by being there and burying yourself to try and come out of it ultimately feeling more empty than before with no purpose. Ultimately winning the battle of forgetting but coming out of it almost drained.

4. In This Dying Sun. This pretty much talks about our dying planet. Or even a dying galaxy. Which resonates deeply with what have we been doing to our planet for so long and the consequences of that. Death, decay, nothing good coming out of it really. In the absence of light, there is only darkness. The song is fast and precise almost Fear Factorish-like, but it simulates a fast and imploding galaxy.

5. Seen. This was a very complex song to write vocals to. Because it has many changes. Many ups and downs. Overall it is a very dark song. Its slow riffs and rhythms make it feel like you are in Darth Vader’s home. We used a lot Star Wars references on this song. Yoda’s teachings. The evolution of being good but then going to a dark place. Fear is the path we yell. As in Fear leads to anger, anger leads to pain, pain leads to suffering. All indications that you are pretty much heading to a dark place.

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

STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS ABOUT THE BAND

1.- We are always the band that sounds different on live shows. Everyone is blasting away fast and we are slow, dark demons bringing that contrast to shows. Fans seem to notice that a lot.

2.- We all got Covid on our Mexico Tour after not getting it the whole pandemic. It took just one guy on the tour bus!

3. Brian our current bass payer had recorded on Oblivion as well. He only recorded bass on Bloody Love for this album not even being in the band. He joined afterward.

L- R – Jay Arriaga – Drums, Keyboards, Samples, Andre Accosta – Vocals, Kevin Armstrong – Guitar, Brian Fausnaugh – Bass

Scattered Storm is an El Paso, Texas-based metal band which formed three years ago with the collaboration between Jay Arriaga (drums) from No Life on Earth, Years of Cold, and Kevin Armstrong (guitar) from Mondoshawan, Section 6. From there Andre Acosta from Pissing Razors, Hereafter the Wave and current No Life on Earth frontman joined the ranks on vocals. Having recorded a couple of songs on Bass for both Oblivion and In This Dying Sun, Brian Fausnaugh (Random Allusion, Limerance) finally joined the ranks full time replacing Eddie Garcia on bass. Scattered Storm recorded In This Dying Sun in 2021 at Javier’s Studio Empty Paradise Studios for its release on November 11th, 2022 via Blood Blast Distribution to follow their 2021 debut EP “Oblivion”.

Recording and Live Band Line Up:
Jay Arriaga – Drums, Keyboards, Samples
Kevin Armstrong – Guitar
Brian Fausnaugh – Bass
Andre Accosta – Vocals

Discography:
2021 – Oblivion
2022 – In This Dying Sun

Shared stage with:
Psycroptic, Cavalera Conspiracy, Cephalic Carnage, Fallujah, The Cognitive, Interloper, Healing Music, Flotsam and Jetsam, The Lesser Care, MOndoshawan, Brbarian

Tours and Festivals:
2022 Dessert Hell Tourin Mexico

Past Charts:
Oblivion Charted #145 in Itunes 200 Metal Chart

 

0 EPK – Along the Lines – Our Dear Finale (2022)

  • September 29, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · Along The Lines · EPKs

EPK – Along the Lines – Our Dear Finale (2022)

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

Band: Along the Lines
EP Title: Our Dear Finale
Release Date: October 8, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Self-Release

For Fans of Ice Nine Kills, Famous Last Words , Beartooth , Bring me the Horizon, 
Attack Attack!

“We are absolutely stoked to finally release something we have been holding back this whole pandemic. We started in 2019 and have been working hard and keeping it under wraps for far too long! We wanted this EP to be presented to fans to listen and not just hear the music but also become part of the whole story that is unfolding with each song from front to back.” – Along The Lines

Facebook.com/AlongTheLinesBand | Instagram.com/alongthelines.band | YouTube

Alongthelinesband.bandcamp.com | Apple Music | Spotify 

“Like most ultra-modern metalcore, the real attraction is how well the band plays with dynamics, and Along the Lines do an admirable job. Our Dear Finale is all about extreme contrasts: the pummel of djent-y guitar rhythms, the roaring harsh vocals, the softer sections as pretty as pop, all carefully arranged for maximum impact. The production on these songs is hyper, which lets all the details reach your earholes.” – The Walleye

“Deathcore/metalcore, a full synthy sound, clean parts that are a bit too “mallcore” but the harsh parts are decent… eh” – The Moshpit 89.9FM (Madison, WI)

[Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics]

Band: Along the Lines
EP Title: Our Dear Finale
Release Date: October 8, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Self-Release

Track Listing:
1. First Day on Earth (4:00)
2. Lioness (3:08)
3. Sanguine (4:05)
4. Collapsed Heart (1:40)
5. Mute (3:38)
Brand New Start (3:37)
7. Our Dear Finale (3:50)
EP Length: 24:00

EP Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Along the Lines
• All songs written by: Along the Lines
• Produced by: Mark Governali
• Mixed by: Mark Governali
• Mastered by: Mark Governali
• EP Artwork by: Evan Middleton
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

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

The EP as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY) explained:

The songs hit HARD, the lyrics POP and the story is DRAMATIC.

Track by track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY) explained:

1. First Day on Earth – This song is about our Protagonist finding love at first sight. This song is the first song on our EP that begins the story with a gentle but powerful chorus.

2. Lioness – This song is Heavy and just hits where it needs to hit with the message very clear as day!

3. Sanguine – Our single, Powerful, Catchy, DRAMATIC, this song completely turns the story around.

4. Collapsed Heart – The feeling of Rage, Guilt, Despair This song musically sums up the emotional wreck our protagonist is feeling

5. Mute – Every feel like you want to tell someone a secret but can’t trust them? This song explains that feeling, with heavy breakdowns and a bridge that pulls it all together.

6. Brand New Start – Upbeat, fast, Catchy. This pulls the EP off the ground from its dark story.

7. Our Dear Finale – Our final song of the EP, this ends the story with a dramatic finish.

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

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. The EP is based on a story from one of our good friends about domestic abuse.

2. Along The Lines originally were called Patterns below until we scrapped that name 2 months later.

3. Along The Lines are all nerds and play Magic the Gathering with their producer Mark Governali at least once a week.

4. Along The Lines rented an Airbnb when they recorded the “Sanguine” music video.

L-R – Austin Baxter – Drummer, Greg Vahaaho – Bass, Jon Reid – Vocals, Brady Geurts – Guitar, Tanner Bell – Guitar
Photo Credit – Dave William – DZ Photography

Along the Lines is a band out of Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada that was established in 2020. Initiated by guitarist Tanner Bell, drummer Austin Baxter, bassist Greg Vahaaho, vocalist Jonathon Reid and guitarist Brady Geurts, who have all previously worked together, came up with the idea for the band.

The evolution between the previous band’s sound and what’s coming up in this new form is an incredible departure. The songs hit HARD, the lyrics POP and the story is DRAMATIC. They take elements of metalcore, hardcore and post-hardcore, impactful lyrics, and catchy riffs to produce a sound that is infectious, noble, and full of emotion.

Their debut EP “Our Dear Finale” was released in the autumn of 2022. More music is on the way as they are now focusing on writing their full length.

Recording and Live Band Line Up:
Austin Baxter – Drums
Greg Vahaaho – Bass
Tanner Bell – Guitar
Jonathon Reid – Vocals
Brady Geurts – Guitar

Discography:
2022 – Our Dear Finale – EP

0 EPK – The Wring – Spectra (2022)

  • September 20, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · The Wring

EPK – The Wring – Spectra (2022)

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

“I am very proud of the compositions on this album.  You will hear rock, prog, metal, jazz, classic rock, and probably a few other things, covering a wide range of approaches, but still cohesive and very accessible for any kind of listener.  Prog music can tend to be grandiose; I wanted this album to be the opposite of that.  Tight, concise, and well executed with interesting melody, rhythm, and lyrical themes.

The players: Marco Minnemann on drums – possibly the best rock drummer on the planet right now.  You could spend months just listening to his tracks in isolation.  Reggie Hache’s bass playing is similarly intricate and impeccably executed.  I like to think that the guitar parts are interesting and somewhat unique and span a very wide range of styles, influences and execution.  The vocals come straight out of the 80s with great melody and delivery, offering a very grounded counterpoint to the, often, odd time and melody structure.  There are also keyboards hidden in the mix that offer an almost subliminal base on which everything else is built.

The cover has a cool ’70s vibe that is simple but offers a depth of meaning that will be very personal to each observer; a reflection of the musical content within.” – Don Dewulf – The Wring

For fans of Rush, King Crimson, Dream Theater, Opeth, Porcupine Tree

Band Name: The Wring
Album Title: Spectra
Release Date: December 16, 2022
Label: Wormholedeath
Distribution: Aural/Orchard

TheWring.ca | Facebook.com/thewringband | Instagram.com/wringband | Youtube

Thewring2.bandcamp.com | Apple Music | Spotify

Album digital available at https://orcd.co/spectrapreorder

“A band composed of top artists from the world prog scene, each of whom brings their own style to the band’s sound. Technique and energy, melodic passages, dynamic and expressive vocals and elaborate instrumental sections characterise the album. A recommended listen for all lovers of Progressive Metal sounds, an album to listen to again and again, always managing to give us positive emotions.” – Progressive Rock Journal

“Tired of prog metal bands who fire away odd rhythms, fast solos and complex arrangements? Half of them trying to sound like Dream Theater but all failing completely? Look no further. The Wring from Canada offers great musicians who find their own way through the prog metal jungle. I said great musicians and I really stand for that. Or how about Marco Minneman (drums), Chandler Mogel (vocals), Don Dewulf (guitars), Reggie Hache (bass, keyboards) and Isamu McGregor (keyboards)”… Sometimes they are a bit more commercial, like in the first song ”Stiletto”, reminding me a lot of Threshold. Other songs bring a bombastic wall of sound, with riffs do die for – ”The Wolf” is a great example. The early parts of ”Fallen” has some Rush vibes (of the later and more rock base Rush era) and also softer parts Mogel is a very good vocalist, and he can alter his voice a lot. Something of a voice chameleon!” – Melodic.net

“The opening notes of ‘Sins’ remind me of the opening salvo in Judas Priest’s ‘The Ripper’. Some of the riff structures are also reminiscent of Priest and it’s another great track.” – TheProgSpace

“The third album Spectra by the Canadian progressive rock project The Wring is downright infectious with its joy of playing and catchy Hard Prog Rock songs. There really is a lot of light and very little shadow here.” – Soundmagnet

“Here’s one for prog dorks. This outfit’s third outing (Spectra) features drums by Marco Minnemann so you know the rhythms are mad. The regulars in the band ain’t slouches either though. This is intricate and melodic prog done well.” – Metal Injection

““Wring² Project Cipher comes with a heavy, classic rock feel, but there’s an epic, questing nature to tunes like Sorceress, Steelier and Dose that pushes The Wring beyond metal norms and into prog territory.” – Prog Magazine

“Tired of prog metal bands who fire away odd rhythms, fast solos and complex arrangements? Half of them trying to sound like Dream Theater but all failing completely? Look no further. The Wring from Canada offers great musicians who find their own way through the prog metal jungle. I said great musicians and I really stand for that. Or how about Marco Minneman (drums), Chandler Mogel (vocals), Don Dewulf (guitars), Reggie Hache (bass, keyboards) and Isamu McGregor (keyboards)? This is their third full length album, which follows upon The Wring (2017) and Project Cipher (2021). Sometimes they are a bit more commercial, like in the first song ”Stiletto”, reminding me a lot of Threshold. Other songs bring a bombastic wall of sound, with riffs do die for – ”The Wolf” is a great example. The early parts of ”Fallen” has some Rush vibes (of the later and more rock base Rush era) and also softer parts Mogel is a very good vocalist, and he can alter his voice a lot. Something of a voice chameleon!” – Melodic.net

“Here we have some progressive metal/classic metal, getting a little more into some more typical prog metal with good technical/complex stuff and yeah, keyboards!” – The Moshpit 89.9 FM – Madison, WI

“The extreme professionalism on display throughout this entire album, although a labour of love, is a true master class of musicianship performed by musicians who are truly at the top of their game, making the industry what it is today. The sheer attention to detail is a credit to each and every performer as they tailor their craft neatly and precisely throughout every track, with nothing less than perfect being the order of the day.” – Stargazer Music Magazine

“Overall, the entire album is laden with a rich tapestry of sound and lyrics, well thought out and carefully developed by founder member and visionary Don Dewulf, taking the listener on that perfect journey of thought, and is a credit to its makers gathering no dust in any collection. 10/10” – Stargazer Music Magazine

“Thanks to his renowned session musicians and original compositions, The Wring is a refreshing discovery that offers a personal reading of modern metal. 4/5” – Music Waves

“What sounds at first to be a straight-forward rock album, turns out to be so much more. It’s a tad short, but sometimes less is more. You can hear many influences in these tracks, some of them familiar, but The Wring have stamped their own identity all over it. This should keep you going for the time being but expect more from Don Dewulf with The Wring3 already in the recording stage!” – The Prog Space

“Dewulf’s guitar work shines throughout, at times reminiscent of Alex Lifeson in his prime, such as his powerful solo on ‘Steelier’ which soars above the raging musical maelstrom below. There’s even a funk-infused breakout on ‘Dose’, which is infectious with its driving hook. It’s an absorbing record, one that takes time to soak in, but several plays ensure that it’s burnt deep into the memory. When those end-of-year lists come round, ‘Wring² Project Cipher’ is likely to be pushing for a slot.” – The Razor’s Edge 

“The Wring generally succeed at what they’re going for—Dewulf has produced a fun, catchy record. Particularly on the album’s middle section (“Cipher,” “Steelier” and “Dissension”), there’s some great songs with great riffs. If you’re after some new prog, you could do a lot worse than this album, and I found it quite hard to score.” – Angry Metal Guy

“The overall sound is something like the heavier side of Rush, with hooks and melodic elements smoothing out the guitar crunch, making this very accessible.” – The Progressive Aspect

“Coming out of nowhere with a completely experienced, well-produced, and polished debut record full of complex compositions and dynamics for vocals, guitar, bass, and drums is Sudbury’s newest best-kept secret: The Wring… I give this album a solid 63 out of the 67 moons of Jupiter, including all four Galilean moons.  Highly recommend it for fans Tool, Opeth, Soundgarden, Rage Against The Machine, or if you listened to your dad’s records growing up.” – Kipp Grose, Asylum Club

Band Name: The Wring
Album Title: Spectra
Release Date: December 16, 2022
Label: Wormholedeath
Distribution: Aural/Orchard

Track Listing:
1. Stiletto 4:40
2. Stones & Bones 4:58
3. The Prince 3.54
4. The Wolf 5:00
5. Tin Man 5:25
6. From Mars 4:43
7. Sins 4:43
8. Fallen 5:05
Album Length: 38:28

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by:  Dewulf/Hache/Minnemann/Mogel/McGregor
• All songs written by: Don Dewulf
• Produced by:  Don Dewulf
• Mixed by:  Francis Perron/Radicart Studios
• Mastered by: Yannick St-Amand
• Album Artwork by: Gord Woolley
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)
•   Album Recording Line Up:
Don Dewulf – Guitars
Marco Minnemann – Drums
Chandler Mogel – Vocals
Reggie Hache – Bass & Keyboards
Isamu McGregor – Keyboards

Live Band Line Up:
No live band currently

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

The album as a whole

Spectra is maybe a bit like a 1970’s King Crimson album but without any ethereal soliloquies and certainly with a more significant hard rock/metal influence.  It is a cauldron of hard rock, jazz, metal, classical, 80’s rock, 70’s rock and probably a few other things.  The performances are tight and meaningful.  Marco Minnemann’s drums were the first thing to be recorded.  His performance set the tone; the other guys had no choice but to play their asses off, and they did!

Track by Track:

Stiletto – This song is about the debilitating need for social media attention and validation.  The blade goes in and you never even feel it, then you slowly bleed out.  The verses are in 5/8 and 7/8 creating a somewhat jarring effect, also speaking to the theme.  Chandler does a killer job on the chorus vocal and there is a very peculiar odd-time breakdown before the solo.  Very fun song to play.

Stones & Bones – I’m so happy with how this song turned out; a few key changes but all very appropriate.  A bit of odd time here too and another great vocal performance.  There are also some keyboard parts buried in the mix. Originally, I had planned for this to be a bit of an ode to Deep Purple and Isamu McGregor played a Jon Lord homage but it was just too much (Blackmore never really played rhythm guitar to give the keys space; my rhythm guitars are the foundation of every song!!)  I had to push the keys deeper into the mix; they still add a ton, but more subliminally than overt.  Isamu will probably be mad when hears it, he played his ass off.  Lyrically… I come from a mining town in Northern Ontario, Canada.  Sometimes it feels like a place where music goes to die… just stones and bones.

The Prince – This one was inspired by the Thomas Hardy book ‘The Mayor of Casterbridge’ but is also metaphoric to the self-serving ruthlessness and controlling nature of societal predators.  Musically it’s interesting because the verse is pretty straight ahead rock and the chorus is pure jazz and in odd time. The vocals smooth that over beautifully.  “demi-gods blood-letting weaponized airwaves” – I love that line.  Pretty much sums up the human condition these days.

The Wolf – An instrumental.  Fun main riff with another jazzy chorus and a crushing ending.  Reggie played some killer bass on this and added a great keyboard melody, lifting the song in many ways.  I played this one on a 7-string which adds a nasty resonance.  Fun breakdown and solo.

Tin Man – Starts off with some keys and acoustic guitar, my Opeth rip-off (I’ll say it before someone else does).  Kind of a mid-tempo rock song after that.  The theme is somewhat unusual for me as it was loosely inspired by my son.  He is 18, brilliant, and has a moral compass, unlike any other human I know.  This world is overfilled with greedy maniacs and murderous thugs.  Kids like my son are on a path to change that.  It’s my song of hope.

From Mars – One of my favourite songs on the record.  Somewhat autobiographical, I think.  As a younger person, I really struggled in crowds, especially ones in which I did not belong; which was most.  If you’ve ever felt like a complete alien in a room full of people, you will relate!  I am very proud of the middle breakdown.  Some cool chords and a very fun solo.  Another great performance by Chandler and by Reggie who played some killer bass and also came up with the spooky little piano line in the verses.

Sins – I love the main riff.  It’s another odd time thing (in 13 this time) but the vocals really smooth it out.  Has a total Metallica middle part that jumps out of nowhere!  Marco’s playing on this was inhuman.  The lyrics came from my dismay at how humanity can have advanced so much and in so many ways and yet still do absolutely horrifying things to each other.  How many years will it take for Ukraine to recover from Russia’s insanity?

Fallen – The theme of this was a response to the protests and civil disobedience in both Washington DC and Ottawa, Canada.  It’s incredible how a single charismatic mouthpiece can gather the rabble of humanity and shape it into a weapon.  The intro is odd and staccato, my musical interpretation of crowds of rioters with no real purpose other than chaos. The main riff is simple and, I think, powerful.  Love the solo and the end section on this one.

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

About:

Canada’s The Wring is gearing up to release a third album in December, which is an amalgamation of different styles, brought together by solo artist Don Dewulf. His project has been growing by leaps and bounds, and this new release will wow listeners across the heavy spectrum. “Spectra” is a bit like a 1970’s King Crimson album, but without any ethereal soliloquies and certainly with a more significant hard rock/metal influence. It is a cauldron of hard rock, jazz, metal, classical, 80’s rock, 70’s rock, and probably a few other things. The performances are tight and meaningful. Dewulf comments on the album:

“I am very proud of the compositions on this album. You will hear rock, prog, metal, jazz, classic rock, and a few other things, covering a wide range of approaches, but still cohesive and very accessible for any kind of listener. Prog music can tend to be grandiose; I wanted this album to be the opposite of that. Tight, concise, and well-executed with interesting melody, rhythm, and lyrical themes. Marco Minnemann’s drums were the first thing to be recorded. His performance set the tone; the other guys had no choice but to play their asses off, and they did!”

To bring his vision to life, Sudbury, Ontario local Dewulf enlisted some of the best professional musicians to play the parts. Marco Minnemann – world-renowned drummer, member of The Aristocrats, and successful solo artist. Chandler Mogel – Amazing singer with a great 80’s vibe. Reggie Hache – Canadian bass superstar. Does his own thing and contributed incredible parts to this album. Isamu McGregor – Session keyboard player with great vision and feel. Together they deliver an expansive, detailed eight-track album that touches on a wide range of musical styles and themes. Each listener will hear something different in the compositions.

The Wring started in 2015, as Dewulf had a lot of material written that needed to see the light of day. He assembled the players and released the self-titled album in 2017. They played some shows, and players drifted off, but there was still an abundance of material. Another batch of studio musicians was brought together to release “Project Cipher” in 2021 and yet another diverse bunch got together for “Spectra”.

The band’s classic heavy rock intertwined with prog is recommended for fans of Rush, King Crimson, and Dream Theater.

“Spectra” is due out on December 16, 2022 via Wormholedeath Records.

Discography:
2022 – Spectra
2021 – Project Cipher
2019 – 48 oz. – Single
2017 – The Wring – Self-titled Album

Shared Stage with:
Anvil, Diamond Head, Sven Gali, Dead Daisies, Hookers & Blow

Tours and Festivals:
2018 – Budweiser New Music Festival – Sudbury – Finger Eleven, Glorious Sons, Crown Lands

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BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS: (Don Dewulf)

1.  When the previous album (Project Cipher) was released, Ashermedia took it out to the world.  It was no longer just my personal basement project.  I talked to so many people and received so many positive reviews and feedback, it was amazing.  Even the bad reviews liked something about it.  I learned that proper marketing goes a very long way.

2.  During one of the many interviews I did for the last album, the interviewer asked if I was on a label.  I said ‘no’ and he referred me to Carlo Bellotti at Wormholedeath records from Italy.  Carlo really liked the album and I signed a distribution deal with them.  I presented ‘Spectra’ to Carlo and he went crazy for it, offering an upgraded deal and some further opportunities to push my songs around the world.  Great stuff.

3.  When I was looking for players for the new album, I asked Carlo at Wormholedeath for some suggestions.  He told me that I should look for guys that are killer players but not ‘famous’.  I had already secured Marco Minnemann but followed his advice for the rest.  Reggie, Chandler and Isamu all have great resumes and utterly incredible talent; I could not be happier with those performances.  I should also mention that Marco is surely not human.  His playing is absolutely interstellar.

4.  When it came time to find a mixing engineer, I was a bit lost.  There are so many guys doing this.  Then I happened to pick up the new Voivod record.  I loved the tunes and the production and they are Canadian, so I looked at who did the mixing…  It turned out to be a guy named Francis Perron, also Canadian.  I contacted him and he was keen to do the work on Spectra.  He is a great human and a talented engineer.  I am very grateful for his presence and spirit.

5.  I am a simple guy.  I love to write songs and hear them performed by great players.  I don’t care about money but I do constantly seek to get my music in the ears of like-minded people.  Jon Asher pushed that ball forward a lot.  Two things I’ll always remember:  having the album get a good review in Prog Magazine and having a video posted on the Bravewords website.  Those are two places I’ve been going for many years for music news.  To see my stuff there was surreal.

0 EPK – The Convalescence – 79 Years (single) (2022)

  • September 12, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · The Convalescence

EPK – The Convalescence – 79 Years (single) (2022)

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

Bookings – Keith Wampler – Phone #: 419 351 0678 – keithatthelegendagency[@]gmail[.]com

“79 Years is one of the darkest and most haunting tracks the band has ever written. After spending a night inside Pennhurst State School and Hospital I can’t think of a more unnerving or intense place that I’ve ever been to.” – The Convalescence

For fans of Carnifex, The Black Dahlia Murder, Cradle Of Filth, Lorna Shore, Cannibal Corpse

​Tconband.com | ​Facebook.com/theconvalescence | Instagram.com/theconvalescenceofficial | ​Twitter.com/tconband

Legendrecordings.bandcamp.com | Spotify | Apple Music | Theconvalescence.bigcartel.com

“If you’re a fan of creepy-ass symphonic death metal from bands like Carnifex and Abigail Williams, then you’re going to dig The Convalesence’s new single “79 Years.” The single is based on the band’s night at the now-closed Pennhurst State School and Hospital, alongside a video shot at the same location. Basically the whole entire experience of this song front to back is unsettling.” – Metal Injection

[Download Single Cover | Download Single Lyrics]

Single Title: 79 Years
Release Date: September 15, 2022
Distro: Blood Blast Distribution

Single Name: 79 Years (3:36)

Credits
Performed By: The Convalescence
Written By: Keith Wampler, Zac Lunsford, Charles Webber, Katie McCrimmon
Produced By: Jason Suecof
Mixed By: Jason Suecof
Album Art By: Icer Rose

Album Band Line Up:
Vocals – Keith Wampler
Guitar – Toby Wright
Guitar – Zac Lunsford
Bass – Ronald Buckley
Drums – Charles Webber
Keys – Katie McCrimmon

Live Band Line Up:
Vocals – Keith Wampler
Guitar/Vocals – Toby Wright
Guitar – Brandon Davis
Bass/Vocals – Ronald Buckley
Drums – Cameron Olalde

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

Story Angles/Fun Facts about band/album

– Our New Video “79 Years” was filmed on location inside Pennhurst State School and Hospital as well as some scenes at The Collingwood Arts Center another well known haunted location.

– The Convalescence is a totally independent band. We print a large amount of our own merch, book our own tours worldwide, build our own stage props, maintain our own tour bus, record our own Pre-Production, and Make our own documentaries with the help of our amazing crew members.

– The Convalescence has played over 1,000 shows in 9 countries.

– The Convalescence has 2 Documentaries currently available on Amazon Prime Video “The Making Of Monument Of Misery” & “Rituals Of The Damned”

– The Convalescence is known for interesting merch items including Action Figures, Hot Sauce, BBQ Sauce, Soap, Shoes, Bed Sets, Masks, and even Pre-Roll Joints that include the band’s faces in Washington State Marijuana dispensaries.

Photo Credit – Damian Gibson

The Convalescence is a five-member symphonic deathcore band formed in Toledo, OH in early 2011. The Convalescence blends black metal/horror theatrics with intense death metal style blast beats and shredding guitar along with brutal slamming breakdowns and catchy melodies. The band tours nearly non-stop racking up nearly 1,000 live performances across nine countries.

The Convalescence has released four full-length albums, two EPs, and two stand-alone singles resulting in over one million plays on Spotify and Youtube each. The band also released two documentaries via Amazon Prime Video in 2020 supported by a sold-out movie theatre screening of them both in Maumee, OH on October 30, 2020. The band recently finished recording their fifth full-length album with producer Jason Suecof at Audiohammer Studios with a projected release in 2023.

Album Band Line Up:
Vocals – Keith Wampler
Guitar – Toby Wright
Guitar – Zac Lunsford
Bass – Ronald Buckley
Drums – Charles Webber
Keys – Katie McCrimmon

Live Band Line Up:
Vocals – Keith Wampler
Guitar/Vocals – Toby Wright
Guitar – Brandon Davis
Bass/Vocals – Ronald Buckley
Drums – Cameron Olalde

Discography
– “Undead Swarm” (2022)
– “The Human Disease 2.0” (2021)
– “Monument Of Misery” (2019)
– “Coming Undone” (2018)
– “This Is Hell” (2017)
– “Poison Words” (2016)
– “The Process” (2014)
– “Unmasking The Betrayer” (2012)
– “Memories” (2011)

Music Placements (Movies/Commercials)
– “Scum” on the “Death Metal” Movie Soundtrack (2017)
– “One Of The Dead” on the “14 Ghosts” Soundtrack (2022)
– “One Of The Dead” on the “Cult Affairs” Soundtrack (2022)

Radio Charts
“Undead Swarm” #25 on iTunes Rock Charts (2022)
“The Human Disease 2.0” #3 on iTunes Metal Charts (2021)
“Monument Of Misery” #8 on Billboard Heatseekers Charts (2019)
“Monument Of Misery” #189 on iTunes Top 200 Albums (2019)
“Monument Of Misery” #64 on iTunes Rock Charts (2019)
“Monument Of Misery” #3 on iTunes Metal Charts (2019)
“The Return” #13 on iTunes Metal Charts (2019)
“Coming Undone” #121 on iTunes Metal Charts (2018)
“This Is Hell” #64 on iTunes Metal Charts (2017)

Shared stage with:

Slayer, Slipknot, Judas Priest, King Diamond, Korn, Rob Zombie, Disturbed, Godsmack, Three Days Grace, Testament, Sabaton, Sepultura, Killswitch Engage, Hatebreed, Black Label Society, Soulfly, Tech N9ne, Clutch, Suicidal Tendencies, In Flames, Battlecross, Light The Torch, Halestorm, Motionless In White, Wage War, Stitched Up Heart, Fever 333, Black Veil Brides, Thrice, Lilith Czar, Beartooth, Bush, Ace Frehley, Black Stone Cherry, Buckcherry, Crazy Town, Prison, Filth, Hunt The Dinosaur, Nekrogoblikon, Brand Of Sacrifice, Insane Clown Posse, Esham, Ouija Macc, Twisted Insane,
Token, Ghostmane, Odd Squad Family, Chelsea Grin, Ringworm, Grave, The Offspring, A Day To Remember, Of Mice & Men, 10 Years, Cold, Big Hoodoo, Green Jello, Six Feet Under, Putrid Pile, Breaking Benjamin, Asking Alexandria, Alter Bridge, Hellyeah, Five Finger Death Punch, Bullet For My Valentine, Corrosion Of Conformity, Falsifier, Hive, Raven Black, Signs Of The Swarm, The Breathing Process, In This Moment, The Black Dahlia Murder, Dying Fetus, The Faceless, Origin, Betraying The Martyrs, Lorna Shore, Obituary, Fit For An Autopsy, Terror, Cro-Mags, Angelmaker, Venom Inc, Goatwhore,
Toxic Holocaust, Overkill, Crowbar, Entheos, A Killer’s Confession, Winds Of Plague, Archspire, Spite, Shadow Of Intent, Aborted, Psycroptic, Ingested, Disentomb, Dyscarnate, Devildriver, Hideous Divinity, Coal Chamber, Fear Factory, Born Of Osiris, All Out War, Harms Way, The Last Ten Seconds Of Life, Traitors, Currents, Varials, Rivers Of Nihil, Enterprise Earth, Impending Doom, The Agony Scene, Oh Sleeper, The Devil Wears Prada, Whitechapel, Thy Art Is Murder, Carnifex, Attila, Bury Your Dead, Walls Of Jericho, Dope, Flaw, Otep, Prong, Waking The Cadaver, Bodysnatcher, Within Destruction, Cognitive,
Suffocation, Cattle Decapitation, All Shall Perish, Fleshgod Apocalypse, Oceano, Cryptopsy, As Blood Runs Black, Ice Nine Kills, Ill Nino, Jungle Rot, King 810, Jasta, Upon A Burning Body, Mushroomhead, Atreyu, All That Remains, I Prevail, New Years Day, Sworn In, Straight Line Stitch, Motograter, Soreption, Rings Of Saturn, For The Fallen Dreams, Terrorizer, Sea Of Treachery, Sanction, Soil, Depths Of Hatred, King Conquer, Code Orange, Abiotic, Vital Remains, Abigail Williams, In Dying Arms, Sworn Enemy, Disgorge, Wretched, The Bunny The Bear, Kissing Candice, Dark Sermon, Sumo Cyco, Hinder, Alukah, Necronomicon

Tours & Fests

– European Tour w/Carnifex, Chelsea Grin (2022)
– Northern Wisconsin Metalfest (2022)
– Irate Fest w/Norma Jean, Madball (2022)
– Summit Fest w/Unearth, Impending Doom (2022)
– Rust Fest w/Dropout Kings (2022)
– Toledo Deathfest w/Malevolent Creation (2022)
– Reckless Fest (2022)
– Michigan Metalfest w/Attila, Oceano (2022)
– The Undead Swarm Tour (2022)
– A Legacy In Blood Tour w/Necronomicon, Alukah (2022)
– Earthday Birthday w/Godsmack, Three Days Grace (2022)
– Halloween Tour w/Battlecross, The Breathing Process (2021)
– Inkcarceration Festival w/Rob Zombie, Halestorm (2021)
– Warlando Festival w/Judas Priest, Sabaton (2021)
– Central Florida Metalfest w/Filth (2021)
– Toledo Deathfest w/Jungle Rot, Filth (2021)
– 10 Year Anniversary Tour w/Jungle Rot, Filth (2021)
– Summit Fest w/Saving Abel, The Bunny The Bear (2021)
– Slamdakota Deathfest w/Putrid Pile (2021)
– The Return Tour (2021)
– X-Mass In Hell European Tour w/Six Feet Under (2019)
– Annihilation Fest w/Atreyu, Whitechapel (2019)
– Hallowicked w/Insane Clown Posse, Esham (2019)
– Northern Wisconsin Metalfest w/Casket Robbery (2019)
– The House Of Suffering Tour w/Casket Robbery (2019)
– Blue Ridge Rock Festival w/The Offspring, A Day To Remember (2019)
– Full Terror Assault w/Grave, Jungle Rot (2019)
– Michigan Metalfest w/Hatebreed, Chelsea Grin (2019)
– The Gathering Of The Juggalos w/Insane Clown Posse, Ghostemane (2019)
– Monument Of Misery Tour w/Reign, The Breathing Process (2019)
– Tour w/Oceano, Angelmaker (2019)
– Rocklahoma w/Korn, Disturbed (2019)
– Road To Rocklahoma Tour w/Adrift On River Styx (2019)
– Toledo Deathfest w/Sea Of Treachery, The Breathing Process (2019)
– Dead Fest w/Sea Of Treachery, Krosis (2019)
– Chaos & Carnage (Pontiac) w/Whitechapel, Dying Fetus (2019)
– Spring Bash ‘N’ Thrash w/A Killer’s Confession (2019)
– Texas Independence Fest w/Impending Doom (2019)
– Spring Tour w/Sea Of Treachery (2019)
– Brews & Bruise Fest w/Goatwhore, Battlecross (2019)
– Damage Fest w/My Own Will (2019)
– Canadian Tour w/The Breathing Process, My Own Will (2019)
– Detroit Metal Festival w/Bury Your Dead, Signs Of The Swarm (2018)
– Halloween Tour w/My Own Will (2018)
– Michigan Metalfest w/Whitechapel, Lorna Shore (2018)
– Guelph Deathfest w/Hideous Divinity, Depths Of Hatred (2018)
– Inkcarceration Festival w/Black Label Society, Clutch (2018)
– In Becoming A Ghost Tour w/The Faceless, Lorna Shore (2018)
– Pontiac Music Festival w/Becomes Astral (2018)
– I Won’t Survive Tour w/Becomes Astral (2018)
– Hell Over Ontario Tour w/Alukah (2018)
– Devastation On The Nation (Detroit) w/Aborted, Psycroptic (2018)
– Chaos & Carnage (Pontiac) w/Carnifex, Winds Of Plague (2018)
– Toledo Deathfest w/Your Chance To Die (2018)
– Monument Of Misery Tour w/Your Chance To Die (2018)
– This Is Hell Tour w/Wings Denied (2017)
– Full Terror Assault w/Overkill, Venom Inc (2017)
– The Blood Stained Earth Tour w/Venom Inc, Goatwhore (2017)
– The Summer Slaughter Tour (Cincinnati) w/The Black Dahlia Murder, Dying Fetus (2017)
– The Resistance Tour Pt.2 w/Otep (2017)
– New England Metal & Hardcore Festival w/Testament, Sepultura (2017)
– Brotherhood Of The Snake Tour w/Testament, Sepultura (2017)
– SXSW Music Festival w/Otep (2017)
– The Resistance Tour w/Otep (2017)
– Fall Tour (2016)
– Texas Tattoo Showdown Festival w/Hinder (2016)
– West Coast Death Fest w/Terrorizer, Disgorge (2016)
– The Great Southern Massacre Tour w/Apothica (2016)
– Dirt Fest w/Killswitch Engage, Asking Alexandria (2016)
– Toledo Deathfest w/My Own Will (2016)
– Road To Dirtfest Tour w/Crossing Rubicon (2016)
– Kill This Fest (2016)
– Bordertown Brutality Festival (2016)
– Rock Fest w/Slipknot, Five Finger Death Punch (2016)
– Watch Them Burn Tour w/Alive At Last (2016)
– The Underground Chaos Tour w/My Own Will, I Apollo (2016)
– Poison Words Tour w/So This Is Suffering (2016)
– SXSW Music Festival w/Sid Wilson (2016)
– To Hell And Back Tour w/Ira Hill (2016)
– Tyrants Of Death European Tour w/Suffocation, Cattle Decapitation, Abiotic (2016)
– Fall Tour w/Neurotic November (2015)
– Dirt Fest w/Hellyeah, Coal Chamber (2015)
– Mayhem Festival w/Slayer, King Diamond, Hellyeah (2015)
– West Coast Annihilation Tour w/Ursa Minor (2015)
– The Beaten Path Tour w/Beside The Silence (2015)
– Rock The Farm w/Adrift On River Styx (2015)
– Toledo Deathfest w/Adrift On River Styx (2015)
– Totally Fukn Awesome Fest w/Ill Nino, Straight Line Stitch, Motograter (2015)
– The Civil Unrest Tour w/Ill Nino, Straight Line Stitch, Motograter (2015)
– Back To The U.S. Tour w/Cryptopsy, Disgorge, Soreption (2015)
– Northeast Ohio Metalfest w/The Bunny The Bear (2015)
– Midwest In Distress Tour w/This Is A Lifetime (2015)
– Ground Zero Tour w/As Blood Runs Black, Rings Of Saturn (2014)
– Chains Of Oblivion Tour w/Our Own Accord (2014)
– Toledo Deathfest w/Pick Axe Preacher (2014)
– Rise Of The Rotting Tour w/Maybe Whitney (2014)
– Metal Reigns In The Southwest Festival w/United By Hate (2014)
– The Nekrodesecratour w/Goodnight Irene, United By Hate (2014)
– The Blood, Gore, Brutality Tour w/Sykosis (2014)
– Summer Pitfest w/The Bunny The Bear, In Dying Arms (2013)
– Do You Like It Heavy Fest w/In Dying Arms, Kingdom Of Giants (2013)
– The See You LayTour w/Along Came A Spider, Fallen Captive (2013)
– The EradicaTour w/Erimha (2013)
– Age Ov The Gods Festival w/Master, Sacrificial Slaughter, Kleos (2013)
– For The Fans Tour w/Kleos (2013)
– The Skeletour w/Tides Of War (2012)  
– Toledo Deathfest (2012)
– The Winter Wipeout Tour w/The Black Order (2012)
– All Freaks Halloween Ball (2011)
– Road To Metalfest Tour (2011)
– The Lone Wolves Tour w/Winterus (2011)
– Free Fest (2011)
– Bludgeon Fest w/Mobile Deathcamp (2011)
– Northwest Ohio Metalfest (2011)

 

0 EPK – The Secret Places of The Earth – The Space Between the Stars (2022)

  • September 10, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · The Secret Places of The Earth

EPK – The Secret Places of The Earth – The Space Between the Stars (2022)

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

For fans of Pink Floyd, Repulsive, Midwife, Jefre Cantu-Ledesma, Well Then, Goodbye

Album Title: The Space Between the Stars
Release Date: September 23, 2022
Label: Unsigned
Distribution: CD Baby

Thesecretplacesoftheearth.bandcamp.com | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music | Amazon

The Secret Places of the Earth is a non-linear, live compositional experiment by award-winning Canadian composer, and visual artist Barrett Klesko (All Else Fails, The Order of Chaos, FadeBack Studios United). His first album “Stormwalker” was released in April 2022 to a modest, though enthusiastic fan and critical reception. Described as darkly beautiful, magnetic, and often unsettling, Stormwalker gained momentum with a growing cult following due to its organic live feel and hypnotizing depth. Riding the momentum, The Secret Places of the Earth is offering a second album for 2022 with “The Space Between the Stars” due out on September 23rd.

Album Band Line Up:
Barrett Klesko – Guitar

Discography:
2022 – The Space Between the Stars
2022 – Stormwalker

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

The album as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY) explained:

In a few words: This album is a deep reflecting pool, as it submerges the listener, massages the senses, opens and engages the mind, and relaxes the body.

Track by Track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY) explained:

1. Mother Brain: 
In the deepest reach
Thoughts adrift among the stars
Slumber now in peace

2. The Space Between the Stars:
Distance between us
Empty of all but remorse
What could bridge the void?

3. Fragile Futures:
How much time remains?
A future as black as pitch
Life ends in darkness

4. Drifts:
Horizons of ice
Frozen plains devoid of life
Something stirs below

4. Breach:
At the end of days
No one left no one remains
Who speaks outside the door?

Band Fun Facts – Story Angles:

1. As of August 2022, The Secret Places of the Earth has an unreleased catalogue of over 80 songs, which is growing weekly.

2. All songs are recorded on a very minimal rig; few guitar pedals and a looper, no multi-tracking involved.

3. It is impossible to explain this project to others without sounding pretentious about its creation.

4. There has been an immense response to the first album “Stormwalker”, garnering over 20,000 Spotify followers in just a few months.

5. Barrett’s most used effect pedal on this album is a Dr. Scientist Bitquest.

Album Title: The Space Between the Stars
Release Date: September 23, 2022
Label: Unsigned
Distribution: CD Baby

Track Listing:
1. Mother Brain (6:25)
2. The Space Between the Stars (3:12)
3. Fragile Futures (3:01)
4. Drifts (4:52)
5. Breach (3:06)
Album Length 20:19

Album Credits:
– The Secret Places of the Earth (composer, musician) – Barrett Klesko
– Produced and Engineered – Barrett Klesko
– Mastered – Colin Noel @ Electric Treehouse
– Album Artwork by: dianico https://www.fiverr.com/diacinco?source=order_page_summary_seller_link
– Member of SOCAN
– Music is Canadian Content (MAPL)

Album Band Line Up:
Barrett Klesko – Guitar

0 EPK – RivetSkull – Trail of Souls – Samsara (2022)

  • September 10, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · RivetSkull

EPK – RivetSkull – Trail of Souls – Samsara (2022)

“After self-recording and releasing our debut album during the global pandemic, we’ve revisited our songs with professional production that captures the massive sound that fans have come to expect from our live shows.

Recorded at London Bridge Studio (Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, Queensrÿche) and produced by Matt Hyde (Slayer, Deftones, Seether), Trail of Souls: Samsara promises much more than a sonic retouch of the original. The reworked collection features new cover artwork and the previously unreleased recording of a cover of Aerosmith’s “King and Queens.””

For fans of Dio, Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, Def Leppard, Armored Saint,  Deep Purple

Album Title: Trail of Souls – Samsara
Release Date: July 8, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Distrokid

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

Rivetskull.com | Facebook.com/rivetskull | Twitter.com/rivetskull

Youtube.com/rivetskull | Instagram.com/rivetskull 

Bandcamp | Apple Music | Spotify | Amazon

Digital Platforms – https://lnk.to/TrailOfSoulsSamsara

It would be easy to call RivetSkull a traditional heavy metal band, but they’re so much more than that. RivetSkull has taken the very roots of heavy metal and forged them into something new and fresh.

Spawned from the same DNA that created the beasts that roamed the dark valleys of Birmingham, the foothills of the Cascades, and the plains of Texas, there’s no denying RivetSkull’s heavy metal heritage. This is hard-hitting music blasted over record store chatter, the buzzing of a tattoo gun, or the revving of a motorcycle engine. But, as any metalhead will tell you, heavy metal is more than just a genre: it’s therapy, it’s a community, it’s a style – and it’s a movement. And it’s always evolving.

RivetSkull has created a modern sound that’s as unique as each member’s influences, from punk to country, from alternative to funk. Listening to RivetSkull, it’s easy to envision the band’s live show: Chad McMurray’s clean vocals soaring over a sea of bobbing bodies in black band t-shirts, Mark X. Plog’s boundary-defying guitar ascending over raised beers and outstretched metal horns, Michael Robson’s emphatic drums and Mark Hopkins’ booming bass rattling the bones beneath black jeans and denim vests.

Like good metal – you’ll feel it in your core as much as you’ll hear it in your ears. All of this is brought to you by a dedicated and hard-working band of brothers. They are RivetSkull and they’re bringing the past into the future.

Album and Live Band Line Up:
Chad McMurray – Vocals
Mark X. Plog – Guitar
Mark Hopkins – Bass
Michael Robson – Drums

Discography:
2022- Trail of Souls: Samsara
2020 – Trail of Souls

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

The album as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY) explained:

CM: It’s got an epic, yet nostalgic feel. Lyrically, I write from the heart about things people can relate to, nothing is contrived. We’re not trying to write a certain kind of song and we’re not trying to portray a certain image. We’re not trying to be a tough, brutal band. We’re just normal guys who like metal, much like it was in the 70s – 80s. I don’t know, maybe we need to bring cod pieces back?

Track by track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY) explained:

1. Crash and Burn
“‘Crash and Burn’ is about the pitfalls of relationships. Though you can try to stay clear of danger, sometimes you can’t help but fall into the same traps. The new recording and production conveys the drive and momentum a song about recklessness should be swimming in.  We think we got there with this song and all the others on the album.”

2. Forever
We originally wrote ‘Forever” in 2019 when the world was, once again in a strange place and the US was becoming more and more divided thanks to religion and politics. One year later we would all forever be changed by Covid. Then again in 2022 with more war in the Ukraine, inflation and more political and religious agendas driving yet more distance between all of us. ‘Forever’ refers to the repeating cycle of life’s ups and downs and changes that we forever have to face and come to terms while navigating the waters to get there.

3. Mystified
“Mystified” has to do with fears of stepping out of your comfort zone and sometimes it’s easier to simply take solace by getting high and letting your mind wander to another place.  A journey of finding your way out of the dark and into the light.

4. Another Way To Heaven
Another Way To Heaven deals with a number of things. Is there life after death? Is there really a heaven or god? They want to explore other worlds and if there is really a heaven,  is dying the only way to get there? Now the ending takes a bit of turn and delves into the impact just one person can have. Known as the “father” of the atomic bomb Robert Oppenheimer’s quote taken from Hindu scripture The Bhagavad-Gita, “Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds,” makes an appearance and literally means the world-destroying time.

5. Narcissus
“Narcissus” touches on world leaders who convince others to do their bidding regardless of cost. Shining light on the repercussions and madness of blindly following narcissists in leadership by speaking from the narcissist’s twisted point of view.

6. Trail Of Souls
It’s easy to become star-struck or think you’re better than someone else. Particularly people close to you. A reminder to not be blinded by the stars in your eyes or forget those that helped you get where you are.

7. It’s Not Enough
Life, however long it may be, is constantly changing and evolving. From birth, youth, adulthood and death, many reinventions happen throughout its course. Do we ever have enough? How much is enough?

8. Kings and Queens (Aerosmith cover)
Aerosmith has always been a crossover band between hard rock and heavy metal. Several of their songs were inspirational to us, but none quite as much as ‘Kings and Queens.’ The original was a masterpiece of drama, intensity, and a showcase of vocal skill. All of the years of listening to that song and growing as musicians are poured into this recording. We’re proud of how it all came together.”

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

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. Recorded at London Bridge Studio (Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, Queensrÿche) and produced by Matt Hyde (Slayer, Deftones, Seether).

2. Chad McMurarry trained with Maestro David Kyle weekly for 7 years.

3. Trail of Souls: Samsara album artwork by rock poster artist Justin Hampton (Ween, Pearl Jam, Kiss)

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Album Title: Trail of Souls – Samsara
Release Date: July 8, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Distrokid

Track Listing:
1. Crash and Burn (2:49)
2. Forever (5:24)
3. Mystified (3:45)
4. Another Way to Heaven (7:29)
5. Narcissus (5:01)
6. Trail of Souls (4:04)
7. It’s Not Enough (4:02)
8. Kings and Queens (Aerosmith cover) (5:16)
Album Length: 37:54

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: RivetSkull
• All songs written by: RivetSkull: Chad McMurray, Mark X. Plog, Mark Hopkins, Michael Robson (except “Kings and Queens, Written by Aerosmith with String Arrangement and Programming by Chad McMurray)
• Produced by: Matt Hyde
• Mixed by: Matt Hyde
• Mastered by: Matt Hyde
• Album Artwork by: Justin Hampton
•  Member of ASCAP and BMI – Mark X. Plog and Mark Hopkins: BMI; Chad McMurray, Michael Robson: ASCAP

Album and Live Band Line Up:
Chad McMurray – Vocals
Mark X. Plog – Guitar
Mark Hopkins – Bass
Michael Robson – Drums

0 EPK – Pistacia – Edgy (2022)

  • September 9, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Pistacia

EPK – Pistacia – Edgy (2022)

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

“Our upcoming EP “Edgy” is about different symptoms/aspects of mental illness. The lead single ‘It Was The Cat’ is about self-harm, then the other tracks are about dissociating, and social anxiety. We think fans are going to love our single ‘It Was The Cat’ as our TikTok fans love what snippets they’ve heard so far. Our sound brings elements from 2007-2010 metalcore and we make music for people who miss that amazing era of music. That being said we have modern breakdowns that make you want to mosh.” – Pistacia

For fans Pierce the Veil, Slipknot, Bring Me the Horizon, Motionless in White, Kittie

Pistaciaofficial.com | Facebook.com/Pistacia-104625968817408 | Instagram.com/pistaciaofficial | Twitter.com/pistaciaband | YouTube

Spotify

Tour Dates:​
October 20 – Sovereign – Brooklyn, NY
October 22 – Starlite – Southbridge, MA
October 26 – Millhill Basement – Trenton, MA

EP Title: Edgy
Release Date: October 21, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Distrokid

Track Listing
1. It Was the Cat – 4:00
2. N. Hale – 4:00
3. Fake a Smile – 4:00
EP Length: 12:00

EP Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Vic Gregg, Theo Chaouat, Ben Sonsire-Cummings, Ron Bernhaut
• All songs written by: Vic Gregg, Theo Chaouat, Ben Sonsire-Cummings, Ron Bernhaut
• Produced by: Erik Thorstenn
• Mixed by: Erik Thorstenn
• Mastered by: Erik Thorstenn
• Album Artwork by: Vic Gregg

EP Band Line Up:
Vic Gregg – Vocals
Theo Chaouat – Guitar
Ben Sonsire-Cummings – Guitar
Ron Bernhaut – Bass

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

The EP as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

The upcoming EP is about different symptoms/aspects of mental illness. This single is about self-harm, then we have one about dissociating and social anxiety.

Track by Track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY) explained by Vic Gregg – Vocals:

1. It was the Cat is about self-harm and the person or thing that leads you to it most. Whether it is an abuser or an event sometimes things can weigh too heavy on us and we cope in unhealthy ways. Back in the day, when kids has marks on their arms and were asked about it, they would blame their cat. “The cat did it” or “it was the cat.” The cat is that thing or that person that makes life so unbearable you want to take it out on yourself. For me, the cat is a person who I am supposed to love. They took advantage of me all my life and I finally got out and am doing much better. This song has a sick breakdown and the most 2007 chorus since MySpace reigned the internet. It’s catchy and will have you dancing regardless of the dark imagery.

2. I wrote N. Hale about dissociation. Whenever I get over-stressed or put in an uncomfortable situation, I dissociate. It’s never on purpose as a matter of fact I try hard not to. However, it’s still hard to fight. So when that happens I have non-thoughts and my head is just static and I can hear my pulse and that is it. In the track, we have samples of both which perfectly portrays what goes on in my mind when that happens. Ron and I wrote the main riffs for this song together and Ben spiced it up to make it what it is now.

3. Fake a Smile is about social anxiety. I have a hard time making friends and putting myself out there to the world. TikTok has helped me a bit get comfortable speaking, but I still get so insecure whenever I try to talk to someone new. My fear is that I’ll say something dumb and or uninteresting. So I wrote Fake a Smile. The music was all Theo. He wrote this song a few years ago and he pulled it up one day and I fell in love with it. I started to workshop a melody for the chorus and wrote up some lyrics and the song was born. Very nostalgic sound similar to It Was the Cat and brings you back to studded belts and neon monster tees.

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1.  I write about my own life a lot and my daily struggles living with mental illness. I go into depth about each aspect of my diagnosis and there will most likely be a song for each symptom. Living like this is nearly impossible but I want people to know they are not alone. I want to know I am not alone.

2.  The band got together in an interesting way. We all went to the same school and were in an ensemble together. The way our school works is you can take a class that is basically a cover band for a grade. We were in a Pierce the Veil ensemble together and since that class I wanted to keep playing with them all. So I asked them to join me in Pistacia.

3. We played a major music festival with little music out as a band. We played Inkcarceration in 2021 which was especially huge because that festival was Mudvayne’s first show in 10 years. The crowd was insane and to be honest, we crushed that performance. Since then we have been building a fanbase on TikTok.

In late 2019, Vic Gregg founded Gen-Z, an emo-throwback metalcore outfit. Members Ron Bernhaut, Theo Chaouat, Ben Sonsire-Cummings, and Thomson Estabrook complete the aesthetic onslaught that comprises Pistacia’s live show—in the scene’s dearth of energetic performance, the band found their niche, bringing blistering riffs to tight compact venues with pure animus and palpable vitriol. They have a nostalgia-borne affinity for all things emo and maintain a reckless proclivity for gothic imagery and provocative allure. With a marriage between heavy breakdowns, catchy choruses, and pathos-driven lyrics, Pistacia is that edgy, rebellious act you’ve been craving. 

Shared stage with:
The HU, Mudfuck, Quarantined, Reapercussion, Survive the Sun, Proxies, Spite

EP Band Line Up:
Vic Gregg – Vocals
Theo Chaouat – Guitar
Ben Sonsire-Cummings – Guitar
Ron Bernhaut – Bass

Live Band Line Up:
Vic Gregg – Vocals
Theo Chaouat – Guitar
Ben Sonsire-Cummings – Guitar
Ron Bernhaut – Bass
Thomson Estabrook – Drums

Discography:
It Was the Cat – 2022 – EP
Hematophagous – 2021 (single)
Loaded Gun – 2021 (single)
Melatonin – 2021 (single)

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