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Category: EPKs

0 EPK – Messora – Forever as I Beg (single) (2021)

  • December 1, 2021
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Messora

EPK – Messora – Forever as I Beg (single) (2021)

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

“Forever as I Beg is about being trapped in a self-destructive and self-abusive cycle where your vices control you. The song begins lyrically in the valley of the cycle, where the character is in-between self-destructive bouts and is just dealing with the aftermath of their behavior. As the song progresses the lyrics turn darker and read as if there are two characters, an abuser and a victim, even though there is only the one individual. The music darkens to reflect this. Towards the end of the song the lyrics are entirely from the point of view of the “abuser” as the music reaches its dynamic climax.” – Zach Dean – Messora

For fans of Opeth, Gojira, King Crimson, Porcupine Tree, Rivers of Nihil

Single Title: Forever as I Beg
Release Date: December 17, 2021
Label: Hatred and Lust
Distribution: Hatred and Lust

Facebook | Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify

Digital Pre-Save – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/messora/forever-as-i-beg-single

Montreal, Canada’s Messora started as a solo recording project with no clear goal back in 2016 and since then, has evolved into a full-fledged live band that is releasing a new single “Forever as I Beg”, a follow up to the 2019 album “The Door”. Listeners familiar with the album will be pleasantly surprised by this new, very long, single, which goes through the whole “album” kind of arc and progression within the single piece of music. You are meant to get the album experience condensed in a nine-minute progressive death metal song. Zach Dean explains the track further:

“It is about being trapped in a self-destructive and self-abusive cycle where your vices control you. The song begins lyrically in the valley of the cycle, where the character is in-between self-destructive bouts and is just dealing with the aftermath of their behavior. As the song progresses the lyrics turn darker and read as if there are two characters, an abuser and a victim, even though there is only one individual. The music darkens to reflect this. Towards the end of the song the lyrics are entirely from the point of view of the “abuser” as the music reaches its dynamic climax.” 

Dean continues to explain that “Forever as I Beg” is the fully matured version of the sound Messora was exploring and developing on “The Door” and now that Messora has taken its “progressive death metal” sound to its peak, the band will be exploring different styles in the future. As a very aesthetically driven band, they put a lot of care into creating a unique aesthetic and atmosphere for their live show. It’s all about cool outfits and red lights.

Dark, experimental, and unpredictable, Messora is recommended for fans of Opeth, Gojira, and King Crimson.

[Download Single Cover | Download Single Lyrics]

Single Title: Forever as I Beg
Release Date: December 17, 2021
Label: Hatred and Lust
Distribution: Hatred and Lust

Forever as I Beg (8:49)
(bonus download track via Bandcamp) Closer (Nine Inch Nails cover) “b side” (3:43)

Recording Credits:
– All songs performed by Messora
– Forever as I Beg written by Zach Dean
– Closer written by Trent Reznor
– Produced by Zach Dean and Jonathan Leduc
– Mixed and Mastered by Jonathan Leduc
– Album Artwork by Maya Charest
– Member of SOCAN
– Forever as I Beg – music is Canadian content
– Messora is Sam Neumann, Ben Bertrand and Zach Dean

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

“Overall, this was indeed a hard album to categorize, genre wise. When the album is at its fiercest, I get a distinct GOJIRA vibe…those hard as ice riffs, sterile vocals, and punishing sound. But when they harmonize and explore some melody, and the two more ambient tracks, it lets me know that they are not afraid to experiment a bit. That is a strong quality to any good band, not afraid to take some risks for the sake of overly formulated music. I think that they are just beginning to hit their stride, and can’t wait to hear their next release.” 8/10 – Metal Temple

“Messora constantly find new directions, evolving their music from one side to the other and back. The fact they can do it flawlessly is a joy [8/10] ” – Metal Noise

“The music is technical, brutal, thoughtful, and emotional; taking the listener on a singular journey to the recesses of your mind… This is music for your ears and soul, so purchase and stream the album at the links below.” – Ghost Cult Mag

“If you are a progressive music fan or a fan of metal in general, you need to give ‘The Door’ a chance. It’s challenging, haunting and complex. I don’t have a single complaint about the album and it’s very hard to believe that this is their first LP. Bands normally chase this perfection for years before achieving it. If they continue on this path there is nothing stopping Messora from joining the greats.” – Diary of a Music Addict

“The Door is a guitarist’s album, as central member and founder Zach Dean performs guitar and vocals, and does so with intense gusto. Influences range from Gojira, Tool, Lamb of God, Psycroptic, and Children of Bodom, which sounds neither interesting nor unique, but Messora makes it work, creating a hella tight sound that incorporates it all into one potent wallop… In the end, Messora offers a ridiculously fun guitar album of ear candy.” – Angry Metal Guy

“The Door is one record you certainly check out if you want nothing but solid tracks all the way through. This record will certainly put Messora on the metal map.” – Metal Utopia
 
“I am starting to sound like a broken record when I talk about all the bands who have released great debut records this year. Well, add another to the list, because Messora is here with their debut, The Door. Messora have created a melting pot of a debut record with how many styles they try to fit into The Door. Having not heard of this band prior to this, I was pleasantly surprised and satisfied with what I heard, especially considering it started as a solo project and bloomed into something much more, and I am beyond excited to see what they do on future records because they’re only going to get better.” – Metal Utopia

“one dynamic and briliant listening experience.” – Noob Heavy
 
“The Door, their debut album, is more like a kaleidoscope of metal – a blending of various subgenres in the metal sphere. As you listen closely to each song you embark on a very unconventional and artistic journey that dips you in bits of black metal, thrash, power, doom and death metal. For me to say I loved the entire album is huge…Messora truly an exceptionally talented musicianship that is simply a heavy work of art.” – Boston Rock Radio

“It’s bone splintering stuff, with pulverising segments of speed and also crushing heaviness which put the band in the doom camp at times. Certainly one I would recommend exploring. 8/10” – Musipedia Of Metal

“Promising career start for the Canadian quartet” – Broken Tomb Magazine
 
“Combining a variety of genres, the group made good impressions on those who shows up early with their tight musicianship and ability to change pace on a moment’s notice” – Apt 613

“… Messora was a whirlwind on stage. It was hard to believe that a half hour had passed when they began to play their final song, as each song had layered onto each other leaving viewers with a feeling that the experience was almost surreal.”- Splice Media Group

“…and these guys have not only kicked down the door, they have torn it apart and blown it straight off its hinges…. Their range and versatility know no bounds, and if this standard of work is carried on, they could mould and develop into anything and become colossal world leading metallers, and then those of you who took the time to have a listen now can say that you heard their debut album before they got to next level giants and it was that fucking good.” – The Metal Wanderlust 

Photo Credit: Vladim Vilain

Formed as a solo recording project in 2016, Messora has become a band that obscures and challenges genre. To the band, the music comes as what feels best in the moment. To the fans, it is a kaleidoscope of sound that appears different at every glance and to every eye. Messora has been described as Death Metal, Black Metal, Progressive Metal, Melodic Metal, and Doom Metal, and Experimental music by fans and showgoers. The elements that make up the music may seem familiar to some, yet the whole remains a challenge to define.

The band knows how to set themselves apart from others musically as well as aesthetically, with showmanship and presentation second only to musical performance during their live show. They demand attention with their presentation, but keep it with the strength of their performance and musicianship. Messora always delivers, visually, aesthetically and musically.

Messora has headlined shows in Kingston, Ottawa, Montréal and Mont-Laurier, and has opened for popular international bands such as Replacire, Arsonists Get All The Girls, Wolfheart, Mors Principium Est, Carach Angren and Inanimate Existence.

Messora released their debut album “The Door” on October 4th, 2019 to widespread acclaim from fans and critics, establishing the act as an important part of the Montréal metal scene.

Now in 2021, they return with their single “Forever as I Beg”, an almost album experience condensed in a nine-minute progressive death metal song.

Messora’s Zach Dean explains the track further:

“It is about being trapped in a self-destructive and self-abusive cycle where your vices control you. The song begins lyrically in the valley of the cycle, where the character is in between self-destructive bouts and is just dealing with the aftermath of their behavior. As the song progresses the lyrics turn darker and read as if there are two characters, an abuser and a victim, even though there is only one individual. The music darkens to reflect this. Towards the end of the song the lyrics are entirely from the point of view of the “abuser” as the music reaches its dynamic climax.”

Dean continues to explain that “Forever as I Beg” is the fully matured version of the sound Messora was exploring and developing on “The Door” and now that Messora has taken its “progressive death metal” sound to its peak, the band will be exploring different styles in the future. As a very aesthetically driven band, they put a lot of care into creating a unique aesthetic and atmosphere for their live show. It’s all about cool outfits and red lights.

Dark, experimental, and unpredictable, Messora is recommended for fans of Opeth, Gojira, King Crimson, Porcupine Tree, Rivers of Nihil.

Messora is now, Sam Neumann, Ben Bertrand and Zach Dean

Discography:
2021 – Forever as I Beg (single)
2019 – The Door

Shared the stage with:
Carach Angren, Mors Principium Est, Wolfheart, Replacire, Arsonists Get all the Girls, Inanimate Existence, Eye of Horus

Festivals:
Vankleek Hill Farmfest 2019

0 EPK – Hyperia – Silhouettes of Horror (2022)

  • December 1, 2021
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Hyperia

EPK – Hyperia – Silhouettes of Horror (2022)

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

For fans of Exmortus, Arch Enemy, Unleash the Archers, Havok

Album Silhouettes of Horror
Release Date: March 18, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: CD Baby

 Hyperiametal.bandcamp.com | Facebook.com/Hyperiabandofficial | Instagram.com/hyperiametal

Spotify | Apple Music

“If you prefer your metal loud, dark and just a touch campy (and who doesn’t?), then Calgary-turned-Vancouver rockers Hyperia are planning to deliver with Silhouettes of Horror, the follow-up to 2020’s equally furious and equally fun Insanitorium. First single “Operation Midnight” is an unrelenting barrage of riffage held down by Marlee Ryley’s throat-blistering vocals.” – Exclaim! – One of Exclaim!’s most anticipated albums of 2022

“With their second album Silhouettes Of Horror, Canadian thrashers Hyperia doubled down on the most ferocious elements of their sound to achieve a sound that owed more than a passing nod to Tetonic thrashers Kreator or Destruction. The fact vocalist Marlee Ryley can deliver blackened snarls with as much gusto as trad-metal histrionics helped them stand out from the crowd, firmly establishing Hyperia as promising up-and-comers in the wide world of thrash. RH” – Metal Hammer – The top 10 best thrash metal albums of 2022 

“Recent Calgary-to-Vancouver transplants Hyperia are all about thrashing in a style inherent to ’80s basketball shoes, shredded denim, battle jackets and those studded gauntlets that may look cool, but are likely more responsible for  forearm rashes than being a gateway to one-night stands. Imagine classic Megadeth, “Toxic Waltz”-era Exodus, Annihilator and Anthrax alongside Exmortus, Havok, Warbringer, Violator, Crisix and others with a new-school take on an old-school sound.” – Decibel Mag

“Energetic, melodic, fast, psychotic, and dynamic are just some of the elements that make Silhouettes of Horror an album that old and new fans of thrash, NWoBHM, and power metal will appreciate. The band even included a cover homage of Abba’s Gimme Gimme Gimme.” – Sentinel Daily

“All in all, Silhouettes of Horror gave me what I want for from a modern melodic thrash album. It’s fun, it doesn’t take itself too seriously, and it’s got cool stories to tell.” – Angry Metal Guy

“an addictive brand of primal thrash” – Dead Rhetoric

“You can tell these musicians study at the foot of many legendary bands for influence – combining the intensity of Slayer, Exodus, and Death Angel with the innovative musicianship of Children of Bodom, occasionally allowing the bass play of Scott DeGruyter to garner a spotlight for “Experiment 77”. Session drummer Gord Alexander pummels his kit with controlled abandon, executing fine double kick/snare sequences that drive “Prisoner of the Mind” to swinging hair windmill tendencies, while throwing down standard thrash power principles for “Operation Midnight”. Beyond killer titles like “Hypnagogia” and “Pleonexia”, the icing on top of an already enticing package lies with the fierce clean to extreme growl/scream delivery from Marlee Ryley. Venomous and slithering, you never know when she will melt paint off the walls only to hit solid melodies from her soul.8.5/10” – Dead Rhetoric

“This is one of the most exciting thrash albums I have heard in a fair few years. Hyperia have absolutely smashed it delivering an album that just keeps giving insane quality, track after track. Silhouettes of Horror is a special album and one that is so relentless, so energetic and enthusiastic that I felt out of breath just listening to it. Amazing. Do yourself a favour an make sure you grab a preorder of this excellent release from Hyperia on Bandcamp. 9/10” – Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life

“Closing things out with an addictive-to-listen Abba cover, Hyperia ultimately showcase that while they’re here to bring all the notions of devastation and velocity to your current surroundings, they never forgot you need to have a little fun from time to time.” – The Razor’s Edge 

“I have a long-running theory that any style of music can be immediately improved by making it just a little bit spookier, and Hyperia is the proof that it works for thrash. Regular thrash is all well and good, but add some spooky-ass melodies in there and it becomes instant Spear bait. The strings players are all on their A-game here, and there’s an inordinate amount of cool shit happening on the drums with regards to thrash, but the vocals are what hooked me off the bat. Marlee Ryley has a raw wail and a vicious scream that both play into this particular style extremely well, and it makes the whole package super enticing.” – Toilet ov Hell – Top Albums Ov 2022

“Silhouettes of Horror dropped early this year and quickly became one of my go-to albums for whenever I wasn’t sure what to put on. It’s an album that feels quintessentially “metal” to me, bearing all the traits that got me into the genre in the first place, distilled to their purest form and injected in perfectly measured doses. It’s riffs on riffs on riffs with tons of flashy shreds, a driving rhythm section, and some wild vocals. You’ve also got to respect them for being one of the only bands out there to put out a metal cover of a pop song that actually fucking rules.” – Tolet ov Hell

“It’s a vile concoction, but it bloody works. From the outset, introductory trio “Hypnagogia,” “Intoxication Therapy,” and “Experiment 77” righteously capture and highlight Hyperia‘s raison d’être: to regale us in tales of mental degradation, escapism by way of fermented imbibements, and inhumane clinical experiments. These three cuts slice and dice in quick, surgical slashes that will leave most listeners bleeding heavily and begging for more mauling. Thankfully, Hyperia had only onslaught in mind, as closing trio “Silhouettes of Horror,” “Operation Midnight” and “Pleonexia” close out the main story with a tempest of scalpels and scotch, infusing every moment of their horror-oriented exhibits with relentless fun and unhinged performances across the board. Even the cover of ABBA‘s “Gimme Gimme Gimme” that the band pinned to the tail of the record wins, thanks to faithful reproduction of that song’s big hook and an enthusiastic vocal delivery.” Angry Metal Guy

“this album is the perfect blend of terror and thrash that blends well to create something uniquely familiar. It hits all the musical notes you’re after, while still indulging in a few out of this world solos and combos that are to die for. Favourite Tracks: Experiment 77, Silhouettes of Horror” – Metal Goddesses

“Classic metal / thrash / prog-ish metal, big voices, harsh thrashy stuff… great stuff!!” – The Mosh Pit 89.9FM (Madison, WI)

“this is neck-wrenchingly good riffage delivered through a neat production as tracks such as ‘Experiment 77’, ‘Terror Serum’ and ‘Operation Midnight’ show a band in full throttle having all the hallmarks of Havok and Warbringer and Exodus. Yet, there is so much more here than just another thrash album, the melodic death touches bring in elements of Arch Enemy whilst the virtuoso guitaring and powerful is a call to arms for Exmortus fans. However, what stands tall here are the banshee vocals of Marlee Ryley who brings all the energy of Noora Louhimo as well as fellow Canadian Brittney Slayes from Unleash the Archers.” – Metal Digest

“this 50-minute exercise in thrash really needs to be heard because this is some serious pummeling…. Silhouettes Of Horror is a rollicking opus and showcases the progression of the band. The stories contained herein are as thought-provoking as the musicianship, which literally strips the flesh.” – Metal Forces Magazine

“No question, the Canadians know exactly what they want and like each of the eleven tracks. The 50 minutes of playing time fly by without boredom” – Saitenkult

“an album of extreme power and passion… Be warned! This is seriously furious thrash metal with an unusual vocal twist…” – Female Fronted Power

“HYPERIA have grit, they have fire and they have passion that you cannot buy. Their music is ferocious, at times wild to the point of anarchic but “Silhouettes Of Horror” is an album well worth checking out, especially if you like your female vocals with guts and your thrash with a dirty death metal undercurrent.” – Female Fronted Power

“She’s (vocalist Marlee Ryley) got quite the powerful screams that’ll rip your ears off at times… Overall the album is heavy and fast and packs a lot of punch…” The Metal Crypt

“Do you believe in government experiments and conspiracy theories? Are you a diehard fan of first-class Thrash Metal? If your answer is yes to one or both of these questions, then Hyperia have exactly what’s needed to put a huge smile on your face while you raise your horns to the demented music found in their excellent new album, leaving us all eager for more of their wicked creations in the nearby future.

Best moments of the album: Intoxication Therapy, Experiment 77, Whitecoat and Operation Midnight.” – The Headbanging Moose

“Silhouettes of Horror offers an extreme range of musical strength, to which all musicians contribute their full strength. Vocals in the perfect alternation between growling and clean vocals complement the experimental solos and riffs to an hour of music that entertains the listener very well and leaves them with neck pain. Whopping 9 / 10” – Soundmagnet.eu

“I’m still amazed when discovering such a powerful band… the band is bringing us a very good album to set on top of the Thrash Metal pile to listen to every day.10/10” – The Metal Mag

“Silhouettes Of Horror is so damn good for me. For once no cheerful party thrash, but an old school dark, heavy album brimming with classic ingredients, each convincing for itself, and together they form a beautiful sum. As far as I’m concerned, Hyperia has done a great job” – Wings of Death

“There is a thrill, there is energy, there is a claw, and there is no shortage of interesting melodies or riffs. The album is aimed at those who long for real heavy metal power… This album is destructive and will be remembered for a long time. Hyperia has released a really thoughtful and refined album that will unite fans of heavy metal and thrash metal.” – Power Metal Warrior

“At the crossroads of thrash and death, Hyperia offers a solid album with “Silhouettes Of Terror”. The band shows great qualities and has the weapons to break through in the middle of the pack of young wolves who are candidates to take over from the old ones.” – Music Waves

Insanitorium –  #18 on Top 20 – February 2020 – Canadian College Radio Loud Charts (source: Earshot)

“They’ve got their own flair of melodic and thrash metal going for them which is only going to serve them better as the future comes. All in all I’d absolutely recommend this album, not just because it’s an album that’s got its own vibe and identity to it but it’s arguably the first thrash metal album of the year to grab my attention”- THE METAL ONE ABOVE ALL

“Insanitorium will get the blood flow going and cause massive pit eruption when Hyperia tear up the stage and that’s what the best thrash of any kind should achieve. Keeping their eyes on the prize with creative flourishes in a brief two-year window since forming, the future looks very bright for these Canadians as more people flock to the band’s addictive, pounding style” – DEAD RHETORIC

“Unhinged and unconfinable, Hyperia may throw a lot and we mean a lot of ideas at the wall in the hope that they stick but in the end, it’s their scattershot approach and fearless demeanor which makes them so damn appealing!”

– WORSHIP METAL’S 2020 “10 THRASH METAL ALBUMS YOU HAD TO HEAR IN JANUARY”

“Musically everything is very well done: blast beats and solid drum patterns, driving basses, powerful riffs and handsome melodic guitar solos in well-constructed and arranged songs. But the signboard for Hyperia seems to me to be the smooth vocals of Marlee. They range from very powerful and clean, to strong screams and just as rough and raw grunts. Maybe I can mention Alissa White-Gluz (Arch Enemy) as an example, but it seems to me that Marlee can handle even higher screams” – MUSIKA.BE (Translated from Dutch)

 

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Album Silhouettes of Horror
Release Date: March 18, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: CD Baby

Track Listing:
1. Hypnagogia 4:17
2. Intoxication Therapy 4:38
3. Experiment 77 4:28
4. Severed 4:20
5. Prisoner Of The Mind 4:18
6. Terror Serum 4:51
7. Whitecoat 3:31
8. Silhouettes of Horror 3:54
9. Operation Midnight 4:22
10. Pleonexia 6:59
11. Gimme Gimme Gimme (ABBA Cover) 4:29
Album Length 50:13

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Hyperia
• All songs written by: Colin Ryley, Marlee Ryley, David Kupisz
• Produced by: Colin Ryley
• Mixed by: Colin Ryley
• Mastered by: Mika Jussila
• Album Artwork by: Andrei Bouzikov
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Album Band Line Up:
Marlee Ryley – Vocals
Colin Ryley – Lead Guitar
David Kupisz – Rhythm Guitar
Scott Degruyter – Bass
Gord Alexander – Drums

Live Band Line Up:
Marlee Ryley – Vocals
Colin Ryley – Lead Guitar
David Kupisz – Rhythm Guitar
Scott Degruyter – Bass

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

The album as a whole explained by the band:

Silhouettes of Horror’s lyrical concept is that of parapsychology, night terror hallucinations, and inhumane government experiments. The music is fast, melodic, and heavy-hitting thrash metal.

Track by track explained by the band:

Hypnagogia – Fast opening track that sets the pace for the album. Lyrically it deals with the condition “Hypnagogia” which is a state between wakefulness and sleep where someone experiences hallucinations.

Intoxication Therapy – Our classic thrash song on the album is about dependence on alcohol and a party lifestyle. It borders on a fun yet a real topic that a lot of people might relate to.

Experiment 77 – This song was written about a government experiment where they dosed subjects with LSD for 77 days to study the human mind, doubling the dose each day. It showcases a lot of intricate moments for each instrument and contains extended dual-guitar solo as well as bass solos.

Severed – The slowest song on the album. A change of pace from the rest of the album. Lyrically it’s about how humans were originally all connected, but how throughout time the link of our collective consciousness has been severed.

Prisoner of the Mind – A super melodic and classical-based lick starts this song off. It leads into a fast and thrashy verse with a big, catchy sing-along chorus. Lyrically it describes how we are all slaves to our thoughts and conditioning.

Terror Serum – Terror Serum is a song about living life in fear. A metaphor for being injected by fear from media, news, and our entire culture. Musically a high-energy song, it shows off a range of vocal styles and includes an extended C-section with harmonized guitar leads.

Whitecoat – Whitecoat is influenced by Stephen King’s novel “The Institute” where the government runs experiments on young people to harness their powers and create psychological warfare. Another fast-paced classic thrash song that is sure to start pits live.

Silhouettes of Horror – The title track of the album – this song starts with only guitar and builds with drums into a fast-paced double kick frenzy. A constant pulse flows throughout the song that is ridden with heavy vocals and instrumentals.

Operation Midnight – Operation Midnight is the first single from the album and accompanied by a music video. This song is hard-hitting with melodic vocal lines and sporadic guitar riffs. A catchy and memorable song that portrays what the whole album is about.

Pleonexia – The grand finale and longest song on the album. Lyrically, the song is about corporate greed and how it affects our society. Another fast song with constant double kicks and a variety of vocal types.

Gimme Gimme Gimme – Our homage to the great ABBA. We took this classic song and made it thrash with an extended solo section. We’ve always been fans of non-metal metal covers and wanted to demonize the pop hit.

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

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. Hyperia recently made the decision as a band to move to Vancouver to pursue their musical goals in a more established city.

2. Hyperia had a 3-month tour planned throughout the UK, Europe, and Canada that was unfortunately canceled due to the Covid pandemic.

3. In 2019 Hyperia branded a beer named “Hybeeria” that was sold during the band’s “Asylum” Music Video Premiere as well as their debut album’s sold-out release show, which was a record-breaking event for the venue, having almost 300 people in attendance for a local headlining act.

4. In 2019, Hyperia signed to Latvian-Record label Sliptrick Records, who released their debut album “Insantorium” worldwide.

5. In February 2020, weeks before the covid-shutdown, Hyperia was asked to open for Soulfly and Toxic Holocaust at the Gateway Venue in Calgary, Canada.

6. Guitarist Colin and vocalist Marlee Ryley are a husband and wife thrashing team!

L-R – David Kupisz – Rhythm Guitar, Colin Ryley – Lead Guitar, Marlee Ryley – Vocals, Scott Degruyter – Bass
Photo Credit – Derek Carr of Visions in Pixels Photography

HYPERIA (originally from Calgary, AB now based in Vancouver, BC) is a Melodic Thrash Metal band known for their wailing vocals, shredding guitars, and fast, heavy music. Formed by Colin and Marlee Ryley in September 2018, they found 3 members from the local metal community and hit the ground running. Since the release of their debut EP “FISH CREEK FRENZY” in 2019, HYPERIA has been thrashing venues and taking the Western Canadian metal community by storm.

In April 2019, HYPERIA announced their signing SLIPTRICK RECORDS, who released their debut full-length album “INSANITORIUM” in January 2020. The band celebrated their release to a 300 person sold-out show in their hometown of Calgary, Canada.

Later that year, the band announced the departure of their previous drummer Jordan Maguire, while at the same time revealing the commencement of their second record “SILHOUETTES OF HORROR” with session drummer Gord Alexander (Tessitura, Tides of Kharon, Immunize). The album was completed in June 2021 and is due out in March 2022.

Live Band Line Up:
Marlee Ryley – Vocals
Colin Ryley – Lead Guitar
David Kupisz – Rhythm Guitar
Scott Degruyter – Bass

Album Band Line Up:
Marlee Ryley – Vocals
Colin Ryley – Lead Guitar
David Kupisz – Rhythm Guitar
Scott Degruyter – Bass
Gord Alexander – Drums

Discography:
2022 – Silhouettes Of Horror – LP
2020 – Insanitorium – LP (Sliptrick Records)
2019 – Fish Creek Frenzy – EP

Shared Stage with:
Soulfly, Toxic Holocaust, Hatchet, Invicta, West Of Hell, Seax

Artist Endorsements:
WB Gear

0 EPK – My Hollow – Fighting The Monsters (EP) (2022)

  • November 26, 2021
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · my hollow

EPK – My Hollow – Fighting The Monsters (EP) (2022)

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

“This is by far some of the heaviest tunes we have written and the addition of Lead Guitarist Danio Pirrone and keyboardist Matt Williams has also created a new dimension to the My Hollow sound to make it so much more epic. The new tunes don’t stray too far from our back catalog, but they do possess more of a mature approach to our songwriting. At the end of the day, we hope that the listener can extract their own joy from each individual song. We think the older, as well as the newer fans, can find tangible qualities to enjoy about the new EP.” – My Hollow

For fans of Chimaira, Gojira, Lamb of God, August Burns Red, Fit For An Autopsy

Heavy, Progressive, Groove, Death, Metal

EP Title: Fighting The Monsters
Release Date: April 8, 2022
Label: Self-Release

Myhollow.ca | Facebook.com/myhollowband | Twitter.com/my_hollow | Instagram.com/myhollow | YouTube

Myhollow.bandcamp.com | Apple Music | Spotify

“It has all the subtlety of two-ton anvil slamming down on a set of pearly whites! ” – Heavy Metal Time Machine

“Five pissed off Canadians ready to tear my head off! A welcome surprise.”- Power of Metal

“A staggeringly great job these boys are doing.”- Metal Talk

“I once read it was the test of the progressive band to take two wholly unrelated pieces of music and move seamlessly between them. My Hollow has that in spades, and diamonds, and clubs, and hearts.” – Glacially Musical

“On Borrowed Time is killer. True, it’s packed with a lot of influences, ranging from Pantera to Parkway Drive and more, but My Hollow still retain their own unique, bone-shaking, heavy sound. They’ve just been sure to include all of the best and dirtiest elements of heavy music.” – Skullnbones

“A heavy rabbit punch of an album.” – Hunter Young, Metal Machine

“They are a dynamic band, jamming along at 100mph, then cruising along to vast, deep sonic vistas that refresh the listener throughout the album (after On Borrowed Time, Cold Dark Days slows it down). They bounce around from different influences and spheres, but never staying long enough to wear out their welcome.” – Hunter Young, Metal Machine

“Canada’s My Hollow really set the metal underground on fire with their debut full-length entitled “On Borrowed Time”. This CD encompasses most every element of death metal and death-metal/core into the mix and the end result is one of the best releases I have heard this year. Definitely in the top 10.” -Akerthorpe, Encyclopedia Metallum

[Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics]

EP Title: Fighting The Monsters
Release Date: April 8, 2022
Label: Self-Release

Track Listing:
1. Vultures (4:59)
2. Fighting The Monsters ft. Björn Strid (Soilwork) (4:19)
3. Hell Or High Water (6:26)
4. Faded Through (5:17)
5. The Iron Harvest (4:40)
EP Length: 25:41

EP Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: My Hollow
• All songs were written by: My Hollow
• Produced by: Greg Gallagher and Sean De Faria
• Mixed by: Tyler Williams @ Monolithic Productions
• Mastered by: Tyler Williams @ Monolithic Productions
•  Album Artwork by: Jennifer White
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

EP Recording and Live Band Line Up:
Graham Gaudreault – Vocals
Angelo Giammattolo – Drums
Greg Gallagher – Guitar
Danio Pirrone – Guitar
Sean De Faria – Bass
Matt Williams – Keyboards

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The EP as a whole:

Lyrically, the album fits well together. Each song has its own struggle and perseverance. The main focus for each song was to have its own battle and its own victory. Each topic is different, each outcome is the same.

Track by track explained:

1. Vultures
When I wrote this song I wanted to write something brutally heavy and I had this kind of black metal fast tremolo guitar riff that just totally crushed. I wrote a couple of alternate parts that were cool, but didn’t have the feeling that I was going for. I would say that this song was probably one of the most difficult ones for me as I had to revisit it a couple of times. I am definitely happy with the finished product which made all the struggle worthwhile. (Greg – Guitar)

2. Fighting The Monsters:
This song came together like peas and carrots. I wanted to write a single that had huge sounding choruses and fast, hard hitting verses. We wanted some singing parts in the chorus and we were fortunate enough to have Bjorn of Soilwork completely kill it on this song. I was definitely aiming for a sound that a bigger variety of crowd may latch on to. (Greg – Guitar)

3. Hell Or High Water:
When I wrote the guitar parts for this song they ended up coming together really quickly. I remember feeling some stress and some loneliness at the time and I think that it comes through in the music. It’s also a lot different structurally than most of our songs, which is something that I always try to bring to the table. It also features a longer instrumental section nearing the end which also has gotten positive feedback from the crowd during live performances. Danio Pirrone added a pretty sweet guitar solo in place of the one originally written as a place holder, which is far more technical than My Hollow leads of old. The vocals that Graham added feed into the feel of the music as well, that feeling of unrest and longing for closure are evident in the lyrics. (Sean – Bass)

4. Faded Through:
This was one of the first songs I wrote coming off the release of the “And Now We Fall” single. I wanted to keep the same feel and evolve from that sound which was heavy on the keyboards. I had some basic ideas for the keys and when Matt got a hold of the song, he took it to the next level. The song really came together when we started jamming it out. I had a hard time coming up with an ending and Sean had this killer break down the fit perfectly which in turn allows us to do our trademark move, “The Slowbang,” when we play it live. If you’ve ever seen us play Cold Dark Days live, you’ll know what I’m talking about. (Greg – Guitar)

5. The Iron Harvest:
For me, this song was all about the ending. I actually wrote the song backwards in a sense. I had this killer idea for an ending of a song and what better way to start the song than to completely blast the fuck out of our forearms with a shit ton of tremolo picking. We jammed this song out for a while and with some solid ideas from the boys, this beast of a song was born. (Greg – Guitar)

This was my least favourite song, in truth, prior to Matt getting involved. The ending was awesome, but I wasn’t a fan of the beginning sequence until Matt added his parts in, which for me really improved the tune dramatically. He brought some outside-the-box ideas to parts I felt needed something extra and morphed it into one of my favourites tracks from this release. Danio Pirrone came into the studio and ripped a few lead parts on top of this tune that we could only dream of playing in a My Hollow song prior, this is only a small feature of what he is capable of, so it’s a taste of what’s to come from future My Hollow songs. (Sean – Bass)

L-R  Angelo Giammattolo – Drums, Sean De Faria – Bass, Graham Gaudreault – Vocals, Greg Gallagher – Guitar, Matt Williams – Keyboards,
(not pictured in photo) Danio Pirrone – Guitar
Photo Credit – Brett Teskey

hollow: (1) a place or area that is lower than the area around it.
(2) an empty space inside of something.

The definitions of the word hollow describe My Hollow fittingly. With intense riffs and passages seamlessly giving way to lower, heavier parts in a lock-up, chunked out style with mutes leaving empty space in an otherwise chaotic sequence.

Based out of the Toronto area, My Hollow boasts a cast of independent metal journeymen, hungry to be heavier, tighter and more engaging with every song. Applying advice and drawing experience from performing alongside some of Canada’s biggest metal exports; The Agonist, Cryptopsy, Threat Signal,  Beneath The Massacre among others. My Hollow as a whole can draw from a multitude of influences, not only from metal but from other genres as well, reflected in both their recorded releases as well as their live performance. Described by Danish webzine Power Of Metal as “five pissed off Canadians ready to tear my head off!” As well as “all the subtlety of a two-ton anvil slamming down on a set of pearly whites” by US based heavy metal blog, Heavy Metal Time Machine.

My Hollow has two official releases, 2012’s ‘Cold Dark Days EP’ featuring four demo versions of songs which were reworked and reimagined on 2014’s ‘On Borrowed Time’ full length release featuring My Hollow’s most refined and focused work to date.

Like any band, My Hollow has had its highs and lows. Being selected as a finalist for the annual Wacken Metal Battle Canada 2013 solidified My Hollow as one of Toronto’s, as well as Canada’s top metal acts and announced themselves to a broader spectrum of listeners. Although narrowly missing out on a spot to perform in Germany at heavy metal’s premier festival the experience proved to strengthen the bands resolve and galvanize their confidence in the process.

While the band’s recorded releases give the listener an idea of what My Hollow is about, the live performance is where My Hollow truly shine. “With a crushing wave of energy, and sound, My Hollow filled the venue with their effervescent presence. The lads never disappoint on stage,” is how Toronto based metal publication Metal Master Kingdom described their experience.

With a new EP “Fighting The Monsters”, which includes guest vocals from Bjorn Strid (Soilwork) due out in 2022 and an ever-evolving sound and live performance, My Hollow strive to become an ever-present staple in the Canadian and global metal scene and will stop at nothing to leave you hollow, and wanting more.

EP Recording and Live Band Line Up:
Graham Gaudreault – Vocals
Angelo Giammattolo – Drums
Greg Gallagher – Guitar
Danio Pirrone – Guitar
Sean De Faria – Bass
Matt Williams – Keyboards

Discography:
2022 –  Fighting The Monsters (EP)
2020 – iSolation (Single)
2018 – And Now We Fall (Single)
2015 – On Borrowed Time (LP)
2013 – Cold Dark Days (EP)

Shared Stage with:
The Agonist, Beyond Creation, Cryptopsy, Soilwork, Unearth, Battlecross, Fit For An Autopsy, Wretched, War Of Ages, SkullFist, Neck Of The Woods, Operus, Kill Devil Hill, Vital Remains, Warbringer, Beneath The Massacre. As well as (relatively) local bands: Insurrection, Centuries Of Decay, Sludgehammer, Astaroth Incarnate, BornBroken, Lutharo, Tortured Saint, Burning The Day.

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BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. The guitar and vocal tracking for the album were engineered by both Greg Gallagher and Sean De Faria. The drums were recorded by Tyler Williams at Monolithic Productions, who also mixed and mastered the album. Every band is on a budget, the more money you can save doing things yourself the better, so long as the end product is acceptable. That money can be used for other ventures like promotion, music videos and merchandise.

2. All artwork from the last 10 years has been done by Jennifer White, the wife of our vocalist, Graham. She has made so many amazing pieces over the years and has really made us look good visually. She also created the storyboard for the music video for ‘Vultures,’ as well as creating all of the puppets, props and backgrounds by hand, all while serving as de facto director for the video. We are very fortunate to have her around, My Hollow wouldn’t have been the same without her.

3. We have a number of “Easter Eggs” and hidden inside jokes without our content. A lot revolve around Angelo’s obsession with the number ’11.’ For instance, whenever we can we change the double-L’s in My Hollow to My Ho11ow, or whenever we have a music video we’ll have things in the background, like in the music video for “On Borrowed Time,” the clock is set to 11:11. Also, on one of our recordings, Graham said ‘Meow’ instead of ‘Now,’ in homage to the cult movie classic “Super Toppers.”

0 EPK – Fall of Stasis – The Chronophagist (2022)

  • November 17, 2021
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Fall of Stasis

EPK – Fall of Stasis – The Chronophagist (2022)

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

“We wanted our first album to bring something fresh to the metal scene. Each song was carefully written and fine-tuned to maintain the listener’s attention. We wanted the album to showcase every member’s musical influences without compromising the quality of our music. The result is a relentless, fast and aggressive yet melodic and symphonic opus with a different vibe and story for every track. Overall, each song blends well into the next one, yet they’re different enough to keep the listener involved for the duration of the album.  We asked Christian Donaldson to record, mix and master our album since he’s easily one of the most respected and recognized metal producers in the province. Again, we didn’t want to cut corners and we made sure to partner with someone who would do justice to our music. Lyrically, the album showcases fictive storytelling from start to finish, although the lyrics often symbolize modern social issues along with some of the band members’ personal experiences.” – Fall of Stasis

For fans of Finntroll, Fleshgod Apocalypse, Black Dahlia Murder, Unexpect, Ne Obliviscaris

Album Title: The Chronophagist
Release Date: February 25, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Self-Release

Facebook.com/fallofstasis | Instagram.com/fallofstasis | YouTube | Fallofstasis.bandcamp.com

“Musically the song (Baal Arise) is a brutal one that flies like a bat, discharging obliterating drum munitions, flurries of technically adept guitar work that generate sensations of jolting punishment, frenzied madness, and swirling exoticism. But it’s also overlaid with a symphonic layer that lends an air of menacing grandeur, as well as dancing keyboards that channel ebullience. The vocals combine voracious growls and vicious snarls — until they surprisingly change into singing in the song’s high-flying chorus.” – No Clean Singing

“There hasn’t been enough epic metal this week, so here’s the debut of Fall Of Stasis. There’s a lot going on with this band. You’re getting stuff that sounds like Abigail Williams, Cradle of Filth, Bleeding Through, and The Black Dahlia Murder. Then there is a light folk through-line as well. This band has just started, but I’m already excited for their future. ” – Metal Injection

 

“Drenched in a deluge of nuances, FALL OF STASIS are a truly genre-defying collective, ensuring the beating heart of this album is the band’s individualism and sincerity to their unique concepts and unflinching exploration of sound. “The Chronophagist” is enriched in an ingenious blend of diverse soundscapes, creating a captivating listen from beginning to end and a journey you wish could last a lifetime.” – Female Fronted Power

“The Chronophagist is a fascinating piece. One that will pull you forward with an unholy hunger for more.” – Rock Music Raider

“the first 10/10 of 2022 to these Canadian madmen and women for an album that is contemporary yet brings back memories of when Metal was at the height of its powers, and yet slays with as much ease as a tactical nuclear weapon.” – Ever Metal

“Overall, this album is unlike any other debut out there. It puts absolute chaos on the line and ensures each band member’s unique taste and abilities are available in full force. Take a listen and hear for yourself how this eccentric album puts forth one hell of a dynamic unmatched by any other.” – Metal Goddesses

“Fall Of Stasis complete a successful display of force on their debut, one which benefits massively from Christian Donaldson’s supportive production and mix. More of a name to be treasured by those attracted to innovation within the modern paradigm than those actually seeking outright novelty, The Chronophagist nonetheless ought to steal a fair bit of your time, as the title accurately promises.” – Metal Observer

“The moment I heard the first song I knew I was going to like this album as it sounded like something that you’d hear in the opening credits of a horror movie. After listening to the rest of this album I can easily say that this was one of the best albums that I’ve heard in a while – everything sounds so fresh and familiar and just super epic! Like the lyrics paint epic pictures of folk horror happenings and that was only helped by the neo-classical/folk-inspired melodies. Overall, it reminds me of the Scandinavian extreme metal albums of the late 90s coming from bands like Dimmu Borgir, and the early albums of Children of Bodom and Nightwish. I absolutely love this album and Fall of Stasis have most definitely gained themselves a new fan.” – Andrew Nasso – CFRU 93.3FM (Guelph, ON)

“Symphonic, brutal, unpredictable and loud they’ve made a melting pot of extremes only fitting for a Sith witch to stir creating bubbling brutality. So far they’ve played stages with The Agonist, Wolfheart and Beyond Creation among others.” – Covering The Scene

“The Chronophagist is restless and relentless, a bold and ambitious creative firestorm of an album that defies normal description, it will simultaneously freak you out and entertain with enthusiasm, it’s a rollercoaster high-speed assault with scant regard for weak-minded sensibilities. It may not settle for long but is an excellent gateway into their world of musical mayhem.” – Metal Roos

“With their frantic sound and otherworldly, playful yet dark ambiances, Fall Of Stasis is ready to drag you into a world where madness reigns.” – Maxime Pagé, Thorium Mag

“Ils y ont mis de l’attention, du temps, de l’imagination et de l’amour, ça c’est certain. Il est clair qu’il y a six cerveaux qui y participent, appartenant hors de tout doute à de brillants musiciens. Fall of Stasis, c’était un plaisir de vous écouter et on en veut encore! 9/10” – Ondes Chocs

 

“En conclusion, si vous aimez le mélange des genres musicaux, et que vous cherchez des artistes talentueux qui vont vous surprendre avec une musique de qualité qui sort du commun, vous allez trouver votre bonheur avec Fall of Stasis. Pour ma part, ce fut une découverte incroyable.” – Metal Alliance Mag

“C’est extrêmement rafraîchissant d’écouter une oeuvre qui est composée en groupe, avec tous les membres qui contribuent et donnent leurs avis. Rares sont les albums offrant une telle liberté d’expression. Si vous voulez vivre une écoute déstabilisante, où chaque piste est une expérience unique, n’hésitez pas! As-tu quelques minutes? Écoute ça!” – Ars Media QC

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Album Title: The Chronophagist
Release Date: February 25, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Self-Release

Track Listing:
1. Wilted Forests (3:14)
2. Fall of Stasis (6:52)
3. Drunken Howl (4:08)
4. Baal Arise (2:01)
5. The Cult (2:54)
6. Twilight Carnival (5:41)
7. Baron (6:19)
8. The Last Waltz (4:49)
9. Swarm Of Casualties (6:40)
10. The Chronophagist (Feat. Viky Boyer) (6:50)
Album Length: 49:31

Album Recording Credits: Christian Donaldson
• All songs performed by: Fall of Stasis
• All songs written by: Fall of Stasis
• Produced by: Christian Donaldson
• Mixed by: Christian Donaldson
• Mastered by: Christian Donaldson
• Album Artwork by: Roberto Napolitano
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Album Band Line Up:
Jessica Dupré – Lead singer
Gabriel Bernier – Lead guitar/back vocals
Tristan Bergeron-Boucher – Rhythm guitar
Mathieu Groulx – Bass
Sergei Lecours – Drums
Mélissa Bissonnette – Keyboard

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The album as a whole explained by the band:

Lyrically: The album showcases fictive storytelling from start to finish, although the lyrics often symbolize modern social issues along with some of the band members’ personal experiences.

Musically: This album is a melting pot of each band member’s musical tastes and influences, which makes for a pretty varied repertoire, ranging from smooth and melancholic ballads to aggressive and fast metal riffs.  This gives us somewhat of an “apocalyptic” sound, something that is also reflected in most of the lyrics.

Track by Track explained:

1. Wilted Forests: A very symphonic, instrumental song that sets the tone for what’s to come by showcasing some of the musical themes of the album.  

2. Fall of Stasis: This eponymous track describes an apocalyptic flood transcending both space and time. Musically the song starts with an eerie piano section which evolves into death metal riffs, followed by a soaring chorus. The final section of the song brings back the main riff and features the guitar and the piano trading solos back and forth.

3. Drunken Howl: This song tells the story of a murderous captain and details some of the most well-known torture methods used by pirates throughout history. Heavily influenced by Alestorm, this pirate metal piece starts off with an upbeat accordion riff that sets the tone for a classic folk metal song. The track ends with a guitar solo and a modulation of the main riff.

4. Baal Arise: This piece describes a demon’s awakening and his wish to enslave humanity. This is a short, fast-paced, “in-your-face” type of song that starts off with a brutal death metal riff followed by an epic chorus.

5. The Cult: This is about a pagan cult that heavily indulges in psychoactive substances. The song starts with a syncopated section followed by a folky yet intense main riff solidified by fast and sustained blast beats.

6. Twilight Carnival: This song tells the story of a carnival where tormented people end up reliving their worst memories and regrets. The song features a circus-themed chorus blended into a succession of acoustic guitar parts and brutal guitar riffs.

7. Baron: This epic tale is heavily inspired by our hometown’s most infamous alcoholic who would willingly partake in crazy antics in exchange for beer. This song is fast, eclectic, and features back-to-back riffs structured in an unconventional fashion.

8. The Last Waltz: This piece tells the story of a sorceress who takes advantage of lustful wanderers. This is a classic power-ballad type of song with an acoustic intro and melodic riffing followed by a smooth middle section. The song ends with a melodic-trashy riff and a fade-out solo.

9. Swarm of Casualties: This one is about two armies stuck in a time loop, doomed to be at war with each other until the end of time. This song has a strong melodic death metal influence starting off with an organ intro followed by a melodic section that abruptly turns into a thrash metal riff. The chorus features a catchy vocal hook that gives a very punk-ish vibe.

10. The Chronophagist: This is the final song of the album and it tells the story of a deity who has the power to steal time from mortal beings. The song starts off with a slightly modified version of Wilted Forests’s intro, followed by a heavy riff and an epic, vocally-charged chorus. The last chorus is cut short by an eclectic and odd-timed trashy riff followed by a black metal section. The song ends with an epic riff and a fading soaring guitar solo.

L-R – Sergei Lecours (Drums), Mélissa Bissonnette (Keyboard), Mathieu Groulx (Bass), Jessica Dupré (Lead Vocals), Gabriel Bernier (Lead Guitar),Tristan Bergeron-Boucher (Rhythym Guitar)
Photo Credit – Martin Trottier, Darkest Media

Fall Of Stasis, based in Montreal, Canada, was originally formed in 2014 with the intention of creating original music that couldn’t be defined by a specific genre. They started off with a very eclectic and progressive style, and as time went on, it was toned down in favour of musical cohesion and they added symphonic arrangements.

In 2017, the band released their demo and will be following it up in 2022 with the full-length “The Chronophagist”, which maneuvers closer to black metal but with definitive prog-heavy stylings. Working together on everything, there isn’t a single song where the creative input from a band member has not been blended into the mix. Fall of Stasis firmly believes that creative collaboration is one of their main strengths.

The current lineup of Fall of Stasis consists of Jessica Dupré (vocals), Gabriel Bernier (lead guitar/backing vocals), Tristan Bergeron-Boucher (rhythm guitar), Mathieu Groulx (bass), Sergei Lecours (drums) and Mélissa Bissonnette (keyboard). Each of the musicians brings a wide array of influences which results in a distinct sound, which caters to folk, black, progressive and death metal fans alike, but also to the uninitiated, thanks to their original and catchy melodies.

Symphonic yet brutal and often unpredictable, they present a mix of very powerful growls and clean vocals, along with good stage presence, efficient crowd work and tight musicianship. They have had the pleasure of sharing the stage with many notable local and international bands such as The Agonist, Wolfheart and Beyond Creation.

Album Band Line Up:
Jessica Dupré – Lead singer
Gabriel Bernier – Lead guitar/back vocals
Tristan Bergeron-Boucher – Rhythm guitar
Mathieu Groulx – Bass
Sergei Lecours – Drums
Mélissa Bissonnette – Keyboard

Live Band Line Up:
Jessica Dupré – Lead singer
Gabriel Bernier – Lead guitar/back vocals
Tristan Bergeron-Boucher – Rhythm guitar
Mathieu Groulx – Bass
Sergei Lecours – Drums
Mélissa Bissonnette – Keyboard
Viky Boyer – Feature vocalist

Shared Stage with:
Wolfheart, The Agonist, Beyond Creation, Obey the Brave, Seven Spires, Burning the Oppressor

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BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. Our singer’s ex-girlfriend once came to one of our shows and she bought a demo along with 2 tickets for an upcoming show. In a fit of jealousy, her girlfriend set our demo and tickets on fire the following day.

 2. When the band was just starting out, we jammed in a small shed next to a chicken coop. Our gear was questionable, to say the least, and we had to use logs and rocks to keep the cymbal stands from falling mid-song. In the winter, the temperature could easily drop to -20 degrees celsius, so we had to start a fire in the woodstove and throw logs in every once in a while. Needless to say, this wasn’t great for our instruments.

 3. Our lead guitarist Gabriel and our drummer Sergei met on MSN about 15 years ago, and their friendship solidified when Sergei started regularly selling weed to Gabriel right in front of the house, which never failed to make his mother angry.

4. At some point we were jamming in a residential area and one of the neighbours made a noise complaint. When they arrived, we couldn’t hear them knocking because we were busy butchering Are you dead Yet? by Children of Bodom, so they entered the house and found an ounce of weed sitting on the table (it was still illegal at the time). Fortunately for us, his roommate saw them and handled the situation without further incident.

5. A few years ago, we were playing at the first edition of a small festival called Farmfest in Vankleek Hill, Ontario. The attendance was pretty scarce, but we still had a lot of fun. We were camping there and it was getting pretty cold outside as the night fell, so we crammed into the van of a festival-goer.  While we were having the time of our life, our bassist was busy conceiving his future daughter in the tent next to us.

0 EPK – Anarcheon – Scary Tale (2021)

  • November 12, 2021
  • by Asher
  • · Anarcheon · EPKs

EPK – Anarcheon – Scary Tale (2021)

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

EP Title: Scary Tale
Release Date: November 26, 2021
Label: Self-Release

For fans of Sepultura for the grooviness mixed with Carcass type vocals, In Flames (Early), Unearth, Jinjer

Facebook.com/anarcheonband | Instagram.com/Anarcheonband | Twitter.com/Anarcheonband | YouTube

Spotify | Apple Music | Anarcheon.bandcamp.com | Soundcloud

“The EP takes you through a transition of a woman to a blood-thirsty beast. She longs for her bloodthirsty lady lover only to realize once she is turned she is someone she never imagined she could be. Out for souls and feeling no remorse. Feeling godly and that these mortals should just be thankful to be graced with such exquisite beauty.

One can as well take this EP as a metaphor for someone very lost in love and what is right and wrong. They often feel like they can be two different people once they have suffered a tragedy or heartbreak. Resulting in self-loathing and guilt that you ruined someone and can only protect yourself by turning off the consciousness hence feeling superhuman with no emotions to weigh you down.” – Anarcheon

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“first executive officers of sonic extremity, meting out judicious servings of melody and enmity.” – Factory Worker Media

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STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS ABOUT THE BAND
1. Kaija – When I was first meeting Sylvain I asked him to meet me at a local pub. What I didn’t tell him was that it was a pub my cousin works at. I made sure we sat at the bar where she was working just in case she had to save me from a weirdo. HAHAHA. But of course, the meeting went amazing, we clicked right away and immediately wanted to work together. Later I found out it was actually Sylvains birthday, haha!

2. We track and produce all our new music with Matt Roach at Rain City Recorders.

3. Sylvain the bass player is the main writer for the band.

4. We are all pretty nerdy and funny. When we aren’t playing music you can catch us laughing our asses off at stupid stories we make up, doing karaoke, drinking hot sauce or playing Magic the Gathering in the jam house basement.

EP Title: Scary Tale
Release Date: November 26, 2021
Label: Self-Release

Track Listing:
1. Transyldrainia (4:28)
2. Vlad to the Bone
3. Scary Tale (6:19)
EP Length: 16:01

EP Credits:
• All songs performed by: Anarcheon
• All songs written by: Anarcheon
• Produced by: Matt Roach & Anarcheon
• Engineered by Matt Roach & Emily Ryan at Rain City Recorders
• Mixed by Matt Roach
• Mastered by Stu McKillop
• Album Artwork by:
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Recording and Live Band Line Up:
Sylvain Maltais- Bass
Kaija Krimson- Vocals
Mac White – Drums
Mike Watson – Guitar

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Track by Track Explained:
1. Scary Tale: “Scary Tale” is a story of a girl most likely from the 1600s. She is in love with a vampire that has seduced her through love and promises. When this vampire love of hers shows up she is greeted by two vampires. Thinking she is being betrayed she freezes. Her love reassures her she’s there to turn her and be together for eternity. Once she is turned she loses all sense of love and compassion and starts her murderous spree.

2. Vlad To The Bone: “Vlad To The Bone”  is a tale of a sexual bloodlust between two vampires. She plays with her black swan for years, draining him little by little but grows impatient. She sires him and essentially makes him her bloodplay lover.

3. Transyldrania: “In this EP, we flip the sequence and start with “Transyldrania”, We wrote this last but it really almost tells about the psychology of trying to make someone see the sheer pleasures of being immortal. The big question :
Have you ever wondered
Have you ever dreamed
Of a life not bound by hours
Not life or death
But somewhere in between

As humans, we are very fragile. This song suggests life can end at any moment so why not just come to the dark side where you will be free of the disease of death. It tells of how the person could be torn but in the end, begs to be free with the coercion of this magical beast.

L-R – Sylvain Maltais – Bass, Mike Watson – Guitar, Mac White – Drums, Kaija Krimson – Vox
Photo Credit – James Weekes Productions

Vancouver, BC’s ANARCHEON was formed in 2015 and features vocalist Kaija Krimson, founder of Metalocalypstick Fest, the BC metal fest celebrating women in metal, along with guitarist Mike Watson, bassist Sylvain Maltais and drummer Mac White. With a band name playing off the word Anarchy, ANARCHEON is more of a Frankenstein of their various influences. Demonstrating shemonic screams, catchy riffs, and energetic heavy bass leads, the band has released an EP “Stratusfear” in 2017, two stand-alone singles in 2020 “Sir.Traline” and “Headless Horseman” along with a lone single to kick off 2021 with “Bloody Merry”.

Now, this coming Fall 2021, the band is ready to serve up their next recording “Scary Tale”, a story EP to take fans through a vampiric journey into the dark side of Anarcheon. Lyrically it’s very different from what Anarcheon has released in the past, but musically this EP is a maturing step forward for the band’s brand of grooving melodic death metal.

ANARCHEON has shared the stage with multiple bands from the Western Canadian metal scene and beyond such as Nervosa, The Agonist, Butcher Babies, and more.

Band Line Up:
Sylvain Maltais- Bass
Kaija Krimson- Vocals
Mac White – Drums
Mike Watson – Guitar

Discography:
2021 – Scary Tale (EP)
2021 – Bloody Merry (single)
2020 – Sir.Traline (single)
2020 – Headless Horseman (single)
2017- Stratusfear (Demo-EP)Shared Stage with:
The Agonist, Nervosa, Butcher Babies, AngelMaker, Into, Eternity, Arrival of Autumn, Planet Eater, Blackwater Burial, Galactic Pegasus, Omega Crom, Body Snatcher, Hell Chamber, KOSM, God Said Kill, The Vth Circle, Truent, Of Artistry, 2 Shadows
Tours and Festivals:
2016- Metalocalypstick Fest – Valemount BC
2017 – CEMR Fest – Calgary Alberta
2017 – Metalocalypstick Fest- Lone Butte
2018 – Armstrong Metal Fest – Armstrong BC
2019 – Metalocalypstick Fest – Lone Butte BC
2021 – Loud As Hell Festival – Drumheller, AB

0 EPK – Burned In Effigy – Rex Mortem (2022)

  • November 11, 2021
  • by Asher
  • · Burned In Effigy · EPKs

EPK – Burned In Effigy – Rex Mortem (2022)

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

“We are psyched to present our debut album, Rex Mortem, a catalog of the first chapter of the band. This has been in the works for a long time and we couldn’t be more pleased with how it has turned out. The songs vary in complexity and intensity and demonstrate our growth as a band since its inception. Listeners will hear influences such as The Black Dahlia Murder and The Human Abstract, combining our love for death metal and progressive/neo-classical metal. The vocals are gritty and tense and the lyrics emphasize this with dark tales inspired by mythology, history, and classic literature. Many of the songs follow the story of a tyrannical king aiming to expand his power and influence, who ends up being brought down by his closest allies. We believe our album has something for all metal fans, regardless of preferred subgenre.” – Matt Watkins (Bass) – Burned in Effigy

For fans of The Black Dahlia Murder, The Human Abstract, At the Gates, Between the Buried and Me, Arsis

Facebook.com/burnedineffigyofficial | Instagram.com/burnedineffigyil | YouTube

BurnedInEffigy.bandcamp.com | Spotify

 

“One of the first strong albums of 2022… a very solid debut without much in the way of a bad track. While the band tends to stick to a basic formula and not overpopulate the tracks with clean vocals, keyboards, or guest vocals which tends to the be typical melodeath experience these days “Rex Mortem” is full of infectious riffs that will grab listeners and root them in place for the full ride. Definitely, a band to watch for in 2022. 4/5” – Brutalism

“On this album there’s a sound that was both impressive technically and a lot of fun. Sure, you’re getting technical guitar playing and sinister vocals, but when that neo-classical side of the band hits you can’t help but bounce or sway with the melodies.” – Metal Injection

“Burned In Effigy gild their aggressive, though catchy, melodic death metal with ornate neoclassical melodies that give their violent proceedings a distinctly regal tint.” – Invisible Oranges

““Treachery” is indeed an exuberantly intricate song that involves plenty of fleet-fingered fretwork and dynamic drumming, and it’s even more interesting because of the ways in which melodic motifs appear, change, and re-appear — and wind up getting stuck in the listener’s head in the midst of the neo-classical and progressive instrumental flourishes. Those melodies create sensations of frenzy, torment, and bleak desperation. And thanks to vocalist Mark “Smedy” Smedbron‘s incinerating snarls and screams, it’s a damned vicious song too (please resist the impulse to scream “Hail!” along with him unless you’re by yourself).” – No Clean Singing

“Burned In Effigy, a Neo-classical Melodic Death Metal band from Chicago, weave a sublime meld of classical and progressive elements into their tracks. The result makes their debut full length, Rex Mortem, a stunning and essential listen.” – Metal Talk

“This may be a self-released debut album from a young band, but the level of professionalism and genre fluency on display here is mind-blowing. Burned in Effigy have a killer melodeath sound, and I hope that they will take their neoclassical side even farther in the future. Its front-loaded nature may have kept me from giving Rex Mortem an elite score, but I think fans of aggressive melodeath and neoclassical metal alike will feel the burn.” – Angry Metal Guy

“This album is chock full of leads that earworm their way right into your head and won’t come out, and the moments that will bring you back for more listens are plentiful…If you’re looking for a talented new band that writes engaging songs and showcases a plethora of stylistic influences, look no further. Burned in Effigy are here to blow you away with their relentlessly catchy debut LP, and you can expect to dig it if you like quality metal, period. Rex Mortem, as far as I’m concerned, is this year’s Secrypts of the Egochasm by Vaelmyst: a tight powerhouse of a melodeath record that is likely to land the band a deserved swathe of new fans.” – Noob Heavy

“This record is straight to the point, brutally beautiful, effortlessly ruthless and an incredibly fun listen. ‘Doomsayer,’ ‘Artorias’ and ‘Nightfall’ consist of chunky riffs, solos galore, rapid drumming and frequently alternates between classic death metal growls and more black metal-esque shrieks… Despite being a self-released record, the level of production and professionalism from such a young band cannot be questioned and is absolutely mind-blowing. I completely vibed with this record and give it a solid 8/10.” – This Day In Metal

“The bombastic guitar soloing on “Vendetta” puts a showmanship quality on the spot… Rex Mortem does share qualities with other groups of this nature, such as The Black Dahlia Murder and The Human Abstract, but their superb musical ability keeps the album away from listless comparisons.” – Heavy Music Headquarters

“if you’re looking for that ultimate mix of savvy Tech and Melodic Death Metal high on a yet unknown number of energy drinks, Burned in Effigy is your band. Rex Mortem effortlessly latches on to the string of excellent Extreme Metal pieces of that ilk from 2021. This is just pure metal geekery, rough-hewn, harsh, and truly delicious.8/10” – Rock Music Raider

“Indeed so mature is the song writing here you keep pulling yourself up and uttering surprised little grunts on the continued recollection that this is Burned In Effigy’s debut album; If this is what they can come up with first up, the melodic death metal world would appear to be their oyster – If this style of music is your thing, get in on the ground floor while you still can and remember to tell them who sent you!” – Sentinel Daily

“BURNED IN EFFIGY is a great new band on the scene. “Rex Mortem” is an album that checks all my boxes. Melodic, violent yet pretty; hard edges framed by Victorian lace. And so, I would like to formally introduce you to this new and awesome band. Definitely check it out. If you’re anything like me, you’ll love it. 9/10” – Metal Temple

“Guitar fans will be salivating at what is on offer… Rex Mortem is a highly impressive debut from Burned In Effigy, my money would be on them being snapped up to a label sooner rather than later.” – Musipedia of Metal

“It is technically proficient, exuberant, flashy but not overly so, and features plenty of proper songs that are memorable and well thought out. ‘Rex Mortem’ isn’t the finished article by any means, but the signs are all there that Burned In Effigy might be a big name within the melodic death metal genre in years to come. I’m certainly looking forward to finding out – come join me!” – Man of Much Metal

“Exciting debut between Prog, Melodic Death Metal and modern Metalcore.” – PowerMetal.de

“Musicianship shines throughout; carefully controlled chaos, excellent melodic passages and a classical nature often draped in devastating fury culminating in a surprisingly remarkable flow helping to keep predictability at a minimum.” – Cult Metal Flix

“Burned in Effigy has the skills and a sound that will propel them upwards in both the techdeath and melodic death metal scenes. They’ll be one to watch closely” – The Progressive Subway

“I have to say that I was blown away by this album. The yet so simple mixture of melodic metal with dark doom metal, accompanied by “Smedy’s” voice, can be heard. I particularly like “Nightfall”, “Atlas” and “Vendetta”… Anyone who loves a myriad of solos and defining guitar riffs must have “Burned in Effigy” on their shelves. For this symphonic horror scenario, I give Hellfire 9 out of 10 points.” – Hellfire Magazin

“Burned in Effigy is composed of a lot of influences, and they are all gathered on Rex Mortem. However, the album stays really coherent, offering as many complex parts as hooking rhythmics.” – Acta Infernalis

“the highlight goes to the fantastic guitar work that manages to pull out memorable melodies and those that seem to be part of the common lexicon, especially for those who appreciate the neo-classical side. Add the caustic weight we’re used to in Black Dahlia Murder and we’re set for a great start to 2022. 8.5/10” – Word of Metal

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Track Listing:
1. Doomsayer (3:28)
2. Artorias (5:08)
3. Nightfall (3:20)
4. The Empiricist (4:05)
5. Hades (4:26)
6. Atlas (4:23)
7. Treachery (3:25)
8. Vendetta (3:55)
Album Length: 32:12

• All songs performed by: Mark Smedbron, Matt Watkins, Eddie Dec, Vito Bellino, Brad Dose
• All songs written by: Burned in Effigy
• Produced by: Jordon Beal
• Mixed by: Jordon Beal
• Mastered by: Jordon Beal
• Album Artwork by: Martin Trottier, Darkest Media

Album Recording Lineup:
– Mark “Smedy” Smedbron – Vocals
– Matt Watkins – Bass
– Eddie Dec – Drums
– Vito Bellino – Guitar
– Brad Dose – Guitar

Live Band Line Up:
– Mark “Smedy” Smedbron – Vocals
– Matt Watkins – Bass
– Eddie Dec – Drums
– Steve Bacakos – Guitar
– Mike Hisson – Guitar

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

The album as a whole explained by bassist Matt Watkins:

Lyrically, the album is the introduction of a tale of a tyrannical king’s rule and demise, including some other minor themes and stories from mythology and classic literature. Musically, the album is high-energy, but also diverse. It takes elements from multiple subgenres within metal, mainly melodic death metal and progressive metal, while infusing neoclassical elements into each track. No two tracks sound the same. We try to skillfully and tastefully change keys and time signatures throughout, so the feel of the music is constantly shifting but also smoothly flowing between each section.

Track by Track by Explained:

1. Doomsayer – Doomsayer is a fast-paced and technical introduction to the album. The guitar progressions alternate between tight and muted and open and harmonized, building to a crushing pre-chorus and open, melodic chorus. The lyrical themes deal with the world burning while a tyrannical king watches from on high with contempt.

2. Artorias – Artorias has the most emphasis on groove on the album. It has multiple movements, including a latin-influenced clean departure in the middle of the song. It starts with a syncopated riff that really comes together with the drums’ half-time groove, going into a verse section with a thundering double kick pattern. The middle section continues the groove between the bass and drums, and the final section builds into a climactic finale with a ripping guitar solo. Lyrically, it describes a doomed path for humanity with no chance of redemption.

3. Nightfall – Nightfall’s lyrics are based on the tales of Vladimir Dracula and Count Orlok (Nosferatu) and seek to illustrate the neoclassical themes in the song. Musically, it incorporates multiple clean sections that outline the main musical themes that then appear in the riffs, including fast-paced tremolo picking sections with blast beats.

4. The Empiricist – The Empiricist steadily builds emotional tension throughout the song and shifts keys multiple times, demonstrating the main theme in multiple different ways. The lyrics deal with the king’s closest advisor and right-hand man betraying him and destroying what the king had built. This song really benefited the most from vocals as opposed to its instrumental version, in our opinion.

5. Hades – Hades is the fastest song on the album and shifts between multiple time signatures rapidly, with a mid-tempo melodic chorus and solo section. Though the groove is constantly shifting, it transitions smoothly so it feels natural instead of jarring. The lyrics illustrate the king’s descent to the afterlife.

6. Atlas – Atlas is likely the most melodic song on the album, though it also has plenty of groove. It was originally called “Jupiter” on our first EP and now has proper production and includes vocals. The lyrical themes follow Atlas, who was cursed to bear the weight of the world on his shoulders.

7. Treachery – Treachery is the most melodically and harmonically complex song on the album. It expresses its themes in multiple keys and includes lots of counterpoint, including sections with 3-way counterpoints between the guitars and bass. The vocal chants throughout the song hammer home the lyrical themes of divine right and corruption. The king aims to present an image to his subjects as a just and noble ruler, while he plots to spread his treachery across the land.

8. Vendetta – Vendetta is one of the first songs written by the band and deserved a rendition for the album release. It has some speed/power metal influences and includes very lead-driven choruses and a climactic solo. The lyrics detail a murderous revenge upon one’s oppressors.

L-R – Mark “Smedy” Smedbron (Vocals) | Matt Watkins (Bass) | Eddie Dec (Drums) | Steve Bacakos (Guitar) | Mike Hisson (Guitar)
Photo Credit – Emily Fuschen – Dark Trix Photography

Burned in Effigy is a neoclassical melodic death metal band from Chicago, IL. Formed in late 2016 by founding members Brad Dose (guitar), Vito Belino (guitar), Eddie Dec (drums), and Matt Watkins (bass). Starting as an instrumental melodic metal band, the four were brought together by their love of complex, melodic, and heavy music and sought to bring more of that to the Chicago extreme music scene.

Burned in Effigy released their debut EP, Terrestrial, in April 2017. The band focused on playing shows after and building an audience through top-notch live performances while opening for prominent bands such as Scale the Summit, Angel Vivaldi, Oh, Sleeper, and Mushroomhead. While supporting this EP, Burned in Effigy worked with a couple of different vocalists and eventually recruited vocalist Mark “Smedy” Smedbron in December 2019 while in the early demo stages for their first full length.

Instrumental recordings for the band’s masterpiece, Rex Mortem, were finished in early 2020. Shortly after, the band parted ways with guitarist Brad Dose. Vocal recording, mixing, and mastering was finished in mid-2021, after which guitarist Vito Bellino left in order to focus on music school. Shortly after, the remaining three members Eddie Dec (drums), Matt Watkins (bass), and Mark “Smedy” Smedbron (vocals) rallied and recruited guitarists Mike Hisson and Steve Bacakos, who naturally fit with and complemented the band’s signature sound.

Fans can expect a diverse high-energy album. It takes elements from multiple subgenres within metal, mainly melodic death and progressive metal while infusing neoclassical elements into each track. No two tracks sound the same. The quintet skillfully and tastefully changes keys and time signatures throughout, so the feel of the music is constantly shifting, but also smoothly flowing between each section.

“Rex Mortem” is due out January 28, 2022.

Album Recording Lineup:
– Mark “Smedy” Smedbron – Vocals
– Matt Watkins – Bass
– Eddie Dec – Drums
– Vito Bellino – Guitar
– Brad Dose – Guitar

Live Band Line Up:
– Mark “Smedy” Smedbron – Vocals
– Matt Watkins – Bass
– Eddie Dec – Drums
– Steve Bacakos – Guitar
– Mike Hisson – Guitar

Discography:
2022 – Rex Mortem – LP
2017 – Terrestrial EP

Shared Stage with:
Mushroomhead, Scale the Summit, Angel Vivaldi, Andy James, Oh Sleeper, Product of Hate, Depths of Hatred, A War Within, Sleep Signals

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

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. While the story of the tyrannical king was not planned from the start, it naturally arose during the vocal/lyrical writing process and felt it complimented the sounds of the songs on the album. It isn’t fully a concept album, but does include an ongoing story that we will definitely continue in future material. We don’t want to limit ourselves, so some songs may depart from the theme, but we can also expand the scope of the saga to include other stories from within the same universe.

2. Opening for Mushroomhead was unexpected for us, as we were asked by the promoter day-of to fill in since the previously scheduled opening band had to drop the show. We cleared our schedules and showed up to play, though as an instrumental progressive band at the time we were more than a little out of place. We still gave our best performance and a decent amount of people in the crowd were vibing to it, despite the audience expecting something more in line with the main industrial lineup. It ended up being a great experience.

3. The candles in the background of our video for Doomsayer were made by the band the night before the video shoot. We made them by hot-gluing assorted lengths of PVC pipe together, adding extra dribbles of glue, and painting over. The extra amount of hot glue gave them a melted candle look, and we just placed small tea lights on top to provide light. While it was a last-minute idea and kept many of us up until the early morning hours, they turned out looking really cool, and we plan on bringing some of them for our live setups in the future.

0 EPK – Caveat – Alchemy (2022)

  • November 3, 2021
  • by Asher
  • · Caveat · EPKs

EPK – Caveat – Alchemy (2022)

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

“The creation of Alchemy has been one that has taken a few years to come to fruition, due to the stage & challenges of the modern world, but with that, we feel like the subject matter & music is more relevant than ever dealing with subjects such as addiction, the loss of a loved one, personal growth & even finding that light at the end of the tunnel.

Being the band is now going on two decades of making music together, Alchemy is the first album putting newest member Amanda Marie Bourdon on lead vocal duties. Amanda joined during the recording of Caveat’s last album Consummation showing a glimpse of her vocal potential with songs like Misunderstood & Seven Jackals. This time around Amanda steps into the limelight as the main vocalist, which still shares vocal duties with Greg Musgrave, but offering a new & fresh take on the Caveat sound taking the listener to uncharted territories that have turned out amazing.” – Caveat

For fans of Megadeth, Unleash The Archers, The Agonist, Meshuggah, Opeth, Cynic, Devin Townsend

Album Title: Alchemy
Release Date: February 11, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution:

Facebook.com/caveatcalgary | Caveatcalgary.bandcamp.com | Spotify | Apple Music

#8 on Canadian College Radio – National Loud Chart – For the Week Ending: Tuesday, March 29, 2022 (source: Earshot) 

“I’d recommend the album (Alchemy) for fans of Meshuggah, Unleash The Archers, Opeth, Devin Townsend and the like, along with people who like an experimental, progressive feel to their music.” – Metal-Rules

“Track three ‘Infinite’ to me is the best song on the album. Fast and heavy, it really lets rip and is a contrast to what you’ve heard so far on the album. The song is about fear and how it motivates much of our lives. ‘Black Mirror’, inspired by an episode of the TV show of the same name, starts with an almost country and western feel before becoming a full-on rock song with lots of changing tempos and vocals. ‘Ghost’ is melodic and powerful, full of twists and turns from ballad to prog rock. It showcases the talents of both vocalists well with lyrics about overcoming your personal demons.” – Metal-Rules

“There is some stellar musicianship here from all members and the seven songs are well written and engaging. The highlight of Alchemy is definitely the lead vocals of Amanda Marie Bourdon, who has a simply excellent voice… Alchemy is definitely worth adding to your collection. 4/5” – Heavy Music Headquarters

Alchemy opens with “Silver,” a relentless sonic assault of massive riffage that showcases Amanda Marie Bourdon’s powerful vocals with guitarist Greg Musgrave’s vicious growls. His gruffness injects several songs here, as do Bourdon’s keyboards. At times, she sings like a pissed-off Pat Benatar, and the rest of this quintet—Joe Sikorski on guitars, Matt Petti on bass and Casey Rogers on drums — matches her fury… this is an engaging listen for metal fans who don’t mind straying beyond the genre’s increasingly blurry lines.” – Shepherd Express (Milwaukee Weekly)

“they are more like a Dream-Theater-on-steroids or like Rush-gone-mad form of prog. ” – Metal Bulletin

“This is classic Melodic Death Metal, but different than the forefathers we all know. The harmonized clean vocals bring that element of temperance to the album, while the harsh vocals keep things rough and dark. A clean female singer and a harsh male singer have surely been done before many times, but I really like the interaction between these two. As a seasoned band, they have experience with songwriting, yet their sound isn’t old and tired. Indeed, it is energetic and infused with passion, and the bass work is fantastic…an instrument that often gets lost in the Metal genre. This was a nice surprise for me.” – Metal Temple

“On their new album CAVEAT offer seven songs, diverse in their compositions. While the guitars come up with dark, hard-hitting riffs as well as beautiful melodic parts, the mostly powerful, complex rhythmic brings in a great dynamic. By alternating between the different expressions of two strong singers, they lay all kinds of emotions into their music… All-together, “Alchemy” is an amazing listen, recommended for fans of genre-bending music. ” – Mostl Metal

“this album’s claim to take an experimental route is justified. With elements of many Metal subgenres flowing in their songwriting veins, it’s hard to stick Caveat into one category… Nevertheless, Caveat brings strength, and wonder to the Metal scene and has given us only a glimpse of what is to come.” – Metal Godesses

“A production that should be most satisfying for many fans of progressive metal, and perhaps a bit more for those who approach this style of metal from the metal rather than the progressive rock direction at that.” – Progressor

“I should say something about the musicianship. Frankly, it’s first-rate. I’ll start with bassist Matt Petti, who plays a major part in the band’s sound. If you want an excellent example of his virtuosity, listen to the first fifteen seconds or so of Black Mirror (yes, the song is based on an episode of that TV show). His fluidity and, in this case, almost funky tone proves him to be a bassist of the first rank. Then there are guitarists Greg Musgrave and Joe Sikorski. Versatile is the word to start with when describing their work. Check out closing song Zero Hour to hear the pleasing (to my ears, at least!) combination of crunch and melody that these two achieve. Silver, on the other hand, will blow you away with the virtuosic near-blast-beat playing of drummer Casey Rogers. Finally, Until Dawn is probably the best place to find the most effective blending of the two vocalists’ voices. I believe that Bourdon will become a truly essential part of the band if more use is made of her voice to complement that of Musgrave. On songs like this one, while one can hear, yes, Opeth and Cynic somewhere in the background, Caveat really comes into its own. This is a well-written, well-produced, engaging, and promising album. ” -Dprp.net

“Violent passages, a heavy metal opera space approach, and everything in an incredibly perfect osmosis, and for almost 50 minutes. This innovative breath is once again coming from Canada, a country where the number of talented groups blush many countries. “Alchemy” is a must-have album and brings something to music. We’re rocking the genius! A true musical experience and what a singer! Awesome” – La Legion Underground Webzine

“Caveat releases a heavy, melodic, harmonic, hard album, full of interesting beats, very well done and short riffs and sharp solos, an elegant and structured production, high and strong chords, more than anything with serious sounds, combining metal styles – progressive rock and death metal which have a bit of faster and groove metal oriented sounds like in Alchemy and Infinite, an album full of energy, clean, heavy and hard, with a technical and rhythmic metal with precise drums and guitars as well than keyboards, at no time does it move away from one another. The combination of 3 voices makes it interesting, clean male and clean female voices that give it light and harmony, with a clean and high register, and the heaviness is given by the part of the guttural voice that appears at times. 9/10” – Darzen Metal Angels

“Thrashing riffs and funk-infused bass grooves melded with aggresive metal death growls and three-part vocal harmonies are just a few of the guilty pleasures on Caveat’s Red… The 53-minute musical journey leaves a crushing inferno of melodic sound in its wake through skilfully executed guitar riffs winding passages that never talk down or leave the listener behind and haunting balledesque moments that you wouldn’t expect to find on a metal album but feel right at home here with Caveat.” – The YYScene

“Caveat focused on music over visuals and blasted through a no-frills set featuring their unique and feverish style of prog metal.” – Metal Master Kingdom (Live Review – Wacken metal Battle Canada 2019 – Calgary Final)

#9 on Top 10 – Caveat – Self-Titled – Canadian National Loud Chart – For the Week Ending: Tuesday, December 20, 2005

“Vindication” is a masterpiece. All the right sounds, rhythm’s phenomenal guitars and great lyrics with plenty of meaning” – Prog Archives

“Within This Weakness”…a brilliant finale to this adventurous, untamed album called “RED”. This is “Caveat” and progressive metal at its finest.” – Prog Archives

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

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. Caveat was one of two bands ever signed to Scarab Metal Productions management company, headed by Terese Fleming who later went on to become one of the leading metal festival organizers in Western Canada from 2005 – 2015. Caveat released our self-titled EP on Scarab Productions in 2005

2. After parting ways with Scarab Productions, Caveat then signed with Toronto based indie label Cyclone Records who released Caveat’s 2007 magnum opus Red.

3.  Caveat is the longest-running active metal band in Alberta.

4.  Caveat’s guitarist/vocalist Greg Musgrave performed backing vocals on Nuclear Blast recording artists Divinity’s debut album Allegory, as well as performing character voices for Bioware video game Dragon Age Inquisition

5. Three of the five members of Caveat (Casey, Joe & Greg) simultaneously played in Alberta death-grind band Exit Strategy, from 2005 – 2017, which are largely considered one of the most influential death metal bands to ever come out of Alberta & also went on to perform in the Canadian Wacken Battle finals in Toronto in 2014.

6.  Vocalist / keyboardist Amanda Marie Bourdon also plays bass & sings in Calgary band Greybeard along with drummer Casey Rogers. Matt Petti also plays bass in the instrumental progressive metal band Illuminated Minerva.

 

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Album Title: Alchemy
Release Date: February 11, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution:

Track Listing:
1. Silver (7:03)
2. Alchemy (7:08)
3. Infinite (6:44)
4. Black Mirror (7:06)
5. Ghost (8:35)
6. Until Dawn (5:55)
7. Zero Hour (7:21)
Album Length: 49:54

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by: Caveat
• All songs written by: Caveat
• Produced by: Joe Sikorski
• Mixed by: Joe Sikorski
• Mastered by: Casey Rogers
• Album Artwork by:
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Album and Live Band Line Up:
Amanda Marie Bourdon: Vocals & Keyboards
Greg Musgrave: Guitar & Vocals
Joe Sikorski: Guitars
Matt Petti: Bass
Casey Rogers: Drums

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

The album as a whole:

This album has an almost soundtrack vibe to it, which really separates it from anything that we’ve done in the past. The lyrics are both dark & light with switches in feeling & mood ever-changing throughout the album.

Track by Track:

Silver: One of the more melodic songs on the album with catchy hooks, verses & an infectious chorus that touches on the silver lining of your actions & how they create the foundation for one’s existence.

Alchemy: One of the more proggier songs on the album, this song really showcases Amanda’s powerhouse voice as well as Matt’s incredible bass performance. This song deals with addiction & how we are in search of the magic elixir (in so many cases alcohol) that will make us a perceived better version of ourselves, which in almost every case turns out to be the opposite.

Infinite: This was the first song written for this album & is by far the heaviest song on the album with an almost Gojira feel at times. The lyrics explore peeling away & coming to terms with our own fears & how fear motivates so much of our human lives, with lines like “We feed upon the will of what grows in shadows”.

Black Mirror: One of the more experimental songs on the album, this song was written, inspired & lyrically based on the Black Mirror episode called White Christmas, which is based on the idea of imprisoning the human mind with modern technology & basically playing God. Dark stuff.

Ghost: This was the last song that was written for this album & is probably the best indication of what is to come for future Caveat music. This is probably the most progressive song on the album, with twist & turns galore. The lyrics deal with trying to overcome your personal demons that keep pulling you down the rabbit hole into depression & personal turmoil. Kind of like a ghost that haunts you that no one else can see or feel but you

Until Dawn: The music for this song was written by Casey & was an exploration of the idea of writing an epically big Devin Townsend type song with huge chords, massive vocals & a positive message about finally finding someone that truly connects with you & takes you from the dark to the light so to speak. Lyrically this song was written about Greg’s family & the positive impact that his wife & kids have had on his life. Super metal I know…

Zero Hour: Probably the most melodic song on the album, this was one of the last songs written for the album & really focuses on Amanda’s incredible voice & creating huge hooks with soaring melodies throughout the song. Lyrically this song was written around the time that Greg’s mother was dealing with dementia throughout the last month of her life before eventually passing away peacefully Very personal & introspective lyrics make this one very near & dear to the band; Greg & Amanda in particular who both went through losing their mothers during the making of this album.

 

L-R Joe Sikorski – Guitars, Greg Musgrave – Guitars & Vocals, Amanda Marie Bourdon – Vocals & Keyboards, Casey Rogers – Drums, Matt Petti – Bass
Photo Credit – Monika Deviat

Caveat was formed in mid-2001 by founding members Greg Musgrave on guitar and vocals, Jawad Baloch on drums & Terry Baldwin on bass & backing vocals. Shortly afterward Casey Rogers was asked to join as the new drummer of Caveat. This lineup would go on to record and release the debut album ‘The Biggest Secret’, which they released on May 14th of 2003.

After supporting the album, Caveat decided to expand and recruited Joe Sikorski in 2004 to the second guitar, who had been playing with Thorazine since the mid-’90s.

During 2005 Caveat partnered up with Scarab Productions to record and release a self-titled EP, which ended up landing on numerous campus radio charts and found the band playing larger shows than ever before. After parting ways with Scarab Production in late 2006, the sound of the band evolved yet again, writing more progressive and technical sounding songs, resulting in their 2007 magnum opus full-length album entitled ‘Red’.

To release ‘Red’ Caveat partnered up with Toronto-based indie record label Cyclone Records. To the band’s delight, ‘Red’ was very well received in the metal community and the band played more than ever in & around Western Canada.

Just prior to the release of ‘Red’ several members would branch off and form the deathgrind side project Exit Strategy with Shane Hawco (ex-Thorazine).  Exit Strategy quickly became popular in the Western Canadian extreme metal scene. In 2008, after a successful several-year run, Caveat would elect to go into indefinite hiatus to focus on Exit Strategy.

Five years later saw the brief reformation of the band when Calgary Metalfest organizer ‘Big’ Nate Reno asked Caveat to reform to play the inaugural festival in the summer of 2013, and the band obliged. Original bassist Terry Baldwin elected to not be involved with the reunion show, so Caveat turned to former Verbal Deception and current Illuminated Minerva bass player Matt Petti to handle bass duties for the Metalfest performance. After that short hiatus, the band officially reformed at the end of 2014 with Matt Petti replacing Terry Baldwin permanently on bass duties.

Songwriting began for a new album while playing a handful of shows and several metal festivals across western Canada. Recording began in May 2015 and the new album entitled ‘Consummation’ was released on June 24th, 2016. ‘Consummation’ was also a moment of further evolution of Caveat, as local musician Amanda Marie Bourden was asked to join the band as keyboard player and second lead vocalist. Amanda accepted the invitation, and her powerful vocals were featured throughout ‘Consummation’ providing a great contrast to Greg’s clean & brutal vocal attack.

In 2017 and 2018, writing commenced for the album and would feature new vocalist Amanda as more of the primary voice in the new material. This culminated into the most diverse ambitious collection of songs to date. Then in late 2019, recording began for the new album with both Joe and Casey handling main production duties this time. Production was completed in late 2020, but due to the Covid pandemic-related shutdowns, the band decided to shelve its release for the duration of 2021 as a result.

Now Caveat’s delayed fifth album, entitled ‘Alchemy’, is for release in early 2022, and once again Caveat promises to deliver a majestic metallic assault on the senses. Stay tuned and expect the unexpected.

Album and Live Band Line Up:
Amanda Marie Bourdon: Vocals & Keyboards
Greg Musgrave: Guitar & Vocals
Joe Sikorski: Guitars
Matt Petti: Bass
Casey Rogers: Drums

Discography:
2022 – Alchemy (TBD)
2016 – Consummation
2007 – Red
2005 – Self-titled EP
2003 – The Biggest Secret

Music Placements:
Theme song for Alberta MMA event for ‘AX Combat presents: Havok’ – song used: Vicious Circle from our 2006 album Red

0 EPK – Thunderor – Fire It Up (2022)

  • November 3, 2021
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Thunderor

EPK – Thunderor – Fire It Up (2022)

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

“I think we’ve created a truly original album with Fire It Up. It was a blast writing these songs and putting my personality into the lyrics for the first time. We’re proud to have done all of the tracking ourselves (it was a learning experience!) and to have done things the old-school way without any quantized drums or pitch correction. I think the result is a more natural-sounding recording, which gives a better human connection and allows the songs to shine through with the real attitude. The songs on the album are meant to inspire a life journey – an adventure with friends, motorcycles, romance, danger, and victory. I hope it will be a soundtrack for your adventures.” – JJ Tartaglia – Thunderor

For fans of Skull Fist, Saxon, Judas Priest, Gowan, Manowar

Album Title: Fire It Up
Release Date: February 25, 2022
Label: Boonsdale Records
Distribution: IDLA – Fontana North (CAN), Amped (USA), Proper Distribution (UK), Alive (Germany/Austria/Swiss), IRD (Italy), Bertus (Rest of Europe), Disk Union (Japan), MGM/Planet (Australia)

Facebook.com/ThunderorOfficial | YouTube | Instagram.com/thunderor_official | Thunderor.bandcamp.com

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. JJ Tartaglia is indeed an avid motorcycle rider and has been featured a couple of times in Adventure Bike Rider.

2. The band did actual motorcycle riding and yacht sailing to shoot their music videos.

3. Several keyboards were used in the production of the album, including 2 different keytars, and also a 40” gong.

4. JJ and Jonny have toured all over the world as members of Skull Fist.

5. JJ Tartaglia is drummer for Skull Fist, ex-Skull Fist guitarist Jonny Nesta, bassist Oscar Rangel is a member of Operus and ex-Annihilator.

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

The album as a whole:

Musically the album is a fresh take on NWOTHM, with 80s synths, piano, and gong hits.
Lyrically the album is an adventure, complete with motorcycles, romance, and danger. It inspires to go after your life and to never give up.

Track by Track Explained:

1. Fire It Up: Up-tempo track with 2 different choruses, massive hooks and melody. The lyrics are about motorcycle riding, romance, and escape.

2. How We Roll: Groovy, catchy song, reminiscent of Twisted Sister, Slade. The lyrics are about motorcycle riding, friends, and not wanting to go home.

3. All or Nothing: Fast tune, lots of double kick, ripping guitar solos, super catchy chorus. The lyrics are about motorcycle riding through a portal and metaphorically moving onwards in life.

4. Dangerous Times: Catchy 80s style piano-driven song, reminiscent of Toto, Journey, with a massive synth middle section. The lyrics are about romance and love.

5. Thunderor: Up-beat fun heavy metal song similar to the style of Skull Fist, some Pennywise influence, harmonized guitar solos and mini drum solo. The lyrics are about pulling up on a motorcycle and other guy’s girlfriends wanting you.

6. On the Run: Driving mid-tempo song, reminiscent of 80s Ozzy Osbourne. The lyrics are about being on a mission, romance, danger, and double cross.

7. Into the Storm: Guitar & synth instrumental, reminiscent of Yngwie Malmsteem.

8. Cold Tears: First half starts with a vocal & piano ballad, which progresses into a Manowar-esque epic with an over the top ending. The lyrics are about reflection on life, not giving up, and comradery.

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Track Listing:
1) Fire It Up (5:12)
2) How We Roll (4:14)
3) All or Nothing (4:31)
4) Dangerous Times (5:24)
5) Thunderor (4:32)
6) On the Run (4:04)
7) Into the Storm (1:34)
8) We Can Make It (4:21)
9) Cold Tears (5:17)
Album length (39:09)

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: JJ Tartaglia, Jonny Nesta, Oscar Rangel
• All songs written by: JJ Tartaglia, Jonny Nesta
• Produced by: JJ Tartaglia
• Mixed by: Chris Snow
• Mastered by: Harry Hess
• Album Artwork by: Daniel Porta
• Member of SOCAN or ASCAP
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Album and Live Band Line Up:
JJ Tartaglia – Vocals, Drums, Keys
Jonny Nesta – Guitars
Oscar Rangel – Bass

L-R – Oscar Rangel – Bass, JJ Tartaglia – Vocals, Drums, Keys, Jonny Nesta – Guitars
Photo Credit – Rae Chatten

THUNDEROR is an 80’s-infused heavy metal band formed in 2020. Featuring a lead-singing drummer and an all-star lineup, the Canadian power trio delivers hook-driven stadium caliber songs with an untamed spirit.

Since 2019, drummer JJ Tartaglia had felt a calling, one which grew stronger each day. Being a member of several prominent metal bands over the last decade (most notably Skull Fist) and having essentially served as a disciple of heavy metal for many years, the time had come to take his quest even further. A new course was being charted for his musical mission. He would share a vision, a feeling… a message he could deliver only with his own voice.

Fueled by his passion for adventure, JJ began to work on drum arrangements and piano pieces that would become the skeletons of the Thunderor songs.

In 2020, with the addition of ex-Skull Fist bandmate Jonny Nesta on guitars, combined with JJ also composing on keys and vocals, songwriting began in full force and quickly yielded an album’s worth of material. Close friend and monster player Oscar Rangel (ex-Annihilator) was then called upon to do bass and the line-up was complete.  Thunderous drums, lightning hot guitar licks, dreamy synths, and piercing vocals would form the musical storm that is THUNDEROR.

The band would spend the next year self-recording the album, priding themselves on recording the natural way, producing an energetic record with a strong human connection.  Fall of 2021 would see the release of the 1st single HOW WE ROLL, immediately garnering a worldwide audience. The debut album FIRE IT UP is set for an early 2022 release backed by an European tour.

If you’ve ever felt a longing for escape, a thirst for adventure, wrapped in romance and danger, well what are you waiting for? Get after it and let THUNDEROR be your soundtrack!

Album and Live Band Line Up:
JJ Tartaglia – Vocals, Drums, Keys
Jonny Nesta – Guitars
Oscar Rangel – Bass

Artist endorsements:
JJ Tartaglia – Pearl Drums, Ahead Drumsticks, Remo
Jonny Nesta – Cleartone Strings, TourGear Designs
Oscar Rangel – Legator Guitars, Raven Picks

0 EPK – Ecryptus – K yr’am Beskar (2022) – SBDC Records (Slamming Brutal Death Community)

  • November 1, 2021
  • by Asher
  • · Ecryptus · EPKs

EPK – Ecryptus – K yr’am Beskar (2022)

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

For fans of Morbid Angel, Immolation, Suffocation, Aborted, Blood Incantation, John Williams

EP Title: Kyr’am Beskar
Release Date: January 14, 2022
Label: SBDC Records (Slamming Brutal Death Community)
Distribution: DIY Digital

“Kyr’am Beskar (Mandalorian for “Death Metal”) is 4 grinding tracks of crushing death metal inspired by the Dark Side! Each song is a gruesome tome from the Canon Arcane, serving shredding riffs, ripping thrash solos, epic overtures, and inhuman drums!” – Ecryptus

SBDCRecords.com | Ecryptus.com | Facebook.com/ecryptus | Instagram.com/ecryptus | Twitter.com/ecryptus | Youtube.com/ecryptus

Ecryptus.bandcamp.com | Fremendeathcommandorecords.limitedrun.com | Spotify | Amazon

“Over this EP’s four track Ecryptus created death metal about lightsaber death, dying in a sarlacc pit, and more.” – Metal Injection

“it’s such an adrenaline-fueled shock-and-awe campaign, one that’s technically eye-popping, eerie and evil, and terrifically obliterating.” – No Clean Singing

“Crushing display of death metal, Ecryptus delivers…” – The Razor’s Edge

“the performances here are razor sharp and these tracks have proven to be fun and crushing in equal capacity. 8/10 ” – Metal Trenches

“The universe of Ecryptus is as thick as a bantha and as sharp as a lightsaber. With Kyr’am Beskar, the group shows us that it is always present and ready to take up arms to keep its place in the scene. 8/10” – Acta Infernalis

“Planetary Enslavement is possibly my favourite song on this release. It shows a degree of technicality and proficiency that is a little too uncommon. It’s exceptionally precise in its musicianship and understands that just because you go fast doesn’t make you good. This however is both fast and excellent. 8/10” – Rock Out Stand Out

“Ecryptus brings us gurglegrind riff salad ” DeathMetal.org

“Kyr’am Beskar is a more than good EP for fans of complex music. I really don’t know why they are not in a big label with good distribution to the deathbangers. And after all of that I’ve just realized there is a baby yoda burning in cover art. What the actual fuck? 10/10” Dark Souls United

“Live, the group takes the stage sporting sith-corpse paint, robes, armor, Dragoncon-acquired lightsabers, and their friend Scara Slayfield wearing her best “Hutt Slayer” Princess Leia outfit, serving drinks to the stage, and adorning the monitors.” – Rad ATL

““Rancorous” opens with a mighty roar before a spiraling assault of blast beats and demonic incantations rise over searing guitar leads that burn with the heat of Vader’s red lightsaber.” – Rad ATL

Ecryptus are an elite group of assassins from Korriban, now based in Atlanta, Georgia. We dispense galactic death metal inspired by the Dark Side and brutal tales of the Canon Arcane.

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

The EP as a whole:

Kyr’am Beskar features 4 grinding tracks of crushing death metal inspired by the Dark Side! Each song is a gruesome tome from the Canon Arcane, serving shredding riffs, ripping thrash solos, epic overtures, and inhuman drums!

Track by Track Explained:

1. Cauterized Saber Wound Massacre – Grinding out the macabre scene of an entire field of bodies, cleaved effortlessly by a maniac wielding a laser sword.

2. Planetary Enslavement – The morose tale of an entire species being forced into slavery under the rule of an invading empire. The track chugs into a furious battle, a bitter and tragic loss of life.

3. Compulsion to Disintegrate – A lightning-fast barn burner, rife with gravity blasts and all the shred! Follow a Mandalorian bounty hunter on a ride through the galaxy to collect undead trophies!

4. Digested Over a Thousand Years – This track invokes the doom, dread, and insanity of being slowly digested, regenerated, and digested again over the course of a millennium. The song begins a doom-laden funeral overture, then blasts into a movement of insanity before slowly fading into oppressive doom.

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

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. Ecryptus hail from planet Korriban, now stranded on Earth in Atlanta, Georgia.
2.  Ecryptus dispense galactic death metal inspired by the Dark Side and brutal tales of the Canon Arcane.
3. Danny Ryann was in Gigan – whose members were in Hate Eternal – that was created by Erik Rutan – Who was in Morbid Angel.  Ecryptus is less than 3 degrees of separation for one of their most influential bands.

[Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics]

EP Title: Kyr’am Beskar
Release Date: January 14, 2022
Label: SBDC Records (Slamming Brutal Death Community)
Distribution: DIY Digital

Track Listing:
1. Cauterized Saber Wound Massacre (4:12)
2. Planetary Enslavement (5:07)
3. Compulsion to Disintegrate (4:12)
4. Digested Over a Thousand Years (5:40)
EP Length: 19:12

EP Credits:
• All songs performed by: Ecryptus
• All songs written by: Ecryptus
• Produced by: Ecryptus
• Engineered by: Alex Parra at Second Sight
• Mixed by: Alex Parra at Second Sight
• Mastered by: Alex Parra at Second Sight
• EP Artwork by: Mike Michalski

EP Band Line Up:
Lord Crypt (Mike Michalski) – Guitar, Vocals (see also; Moonshield)
Dann Solo (Danny Ryann) – Drums (see also; ex Gigan, ex Tyr -live, ex Universe Divide)
Lord Tenebris (Allen Keller) – Bass, Vocals (see also; Degradations)
Lord Abraxas (Justin Brown) – Guitar

Live Band Line Up:
Lord Crypt (Mike Michalski) – Guitar, Vocals (see also; Moonshield)
Dann Solo (Danny Ryann) – Drums (see also; ex Gigan, ex Tyr -live, ex Universe Divide)
Lord Tenebris (Allen Keller) – Bass, Vocals (see also; Degradations)

Discography:
2021 – Kyr’am Beskar EP
2018 & 2020 – Rancorous – 7 inch single
2008 – Astral Crusades EP
2005 – The Continuum LP
2004 – Post Meridian Demo
2002 – The Time Before Light Demo

Shared Stage with:
Cryptopsy, Aborted, Vader, Cattle Decapitation, Malevolent Creation, Amorphis, Mortician, Incantation, Exhumed, The Chasm, Arsis, Daath, Misery Index, Hideous Divinity, Vitriol, Withered, Petrification

0 EPK – Hammerdrone – A Trinity of Rage (EP) (2021)

  • November 1, 2021
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Hammerdrone

EPK – Hammerdrone – A Trinity of Rage (EP) (2021)

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

“As once aggressively heavy and hauntingly melodic, the EP incorporates a variety of black and progressive metal influences to present an EP that both pushes the boundaries and embraces the roots of our old-school, melodic death metal origins.  We deliberately eschew clean singing as a dilution of the heavy intensity that we try to create with our music, so we have been described as ‘death metal that happens to be melodic’, rather than the ‘melodeath’ that many bands describe themselves as.  Lyrically, this is a concept EP that tells a tale in a traditional trilogy form – the rise of the hero against a force of evil; the struggle of that hero against his own doubts and the rising power of the evil that threatens to crush him; and the hero’s final, bittersweet triumph.” – Hammerdrone

For Fans of Be’lakor, Carcass, Amon Amarth, Rotting Christ, Kataklysm

Hammerdronemetal.com | Facebook.com/hammerdronemetal | Twitter.com/hammerdrone | YouTube

Hammerdrone.bandcamp.com | Apple Music | Amazon | Spotify

“”… here with Dark Harvest confirming itself as a heavy hitter, no doubt. Check out the title track for a killer example of intense melodic death paired with catchy songwriting” – Greg Pratt, Bravewords  (CAN) 8/10 – Dark Harvest review

“”There’s no substitute for good songwriting, and Hammerdrone have that concept well in mind. If you are looking for a new death metal band to seek out, Hammerdrone is a great starting point.” – Kyle McGinn, Dead Rhetoric (USA) 7.5/10 – Dark Harvest review

“‘Dark Harvest’ is a triumph of Old School Death Metal and what all the other bands should be striving to match.” Nik Cameron, Glacially Musical (USA)  – Dark Harvest review

“Imagine a cross between Dark Tranquility in ‘The Gallery’ stage with Rotting Christ in the ‘Dead Poem’ phase and Tiamat in the ‘Wildhoney’ phase, without forgetting Sentenced in the ‘Amok’ phase. Ready? Good. ‘Dark Harvest’ is better.” – Fernando Ferreira, World of Metal (POR) 9/10 – Dark Harvest review

“If the last few Amon Amarth albums actually had balls, their music would sound like Hammerdrone.” – The Metal Advisor, The Metal Advisor (May 11, 2014) –  Clone of Europa review

“…melodic death of this calibre may not be hard to find, but it rarely has this much classiness and energy behind it.” – Greg Pratt, Bravewords (Apr 07, 2014) – Clone of Europa review

“Hammerdrone’s songwriting prowess, attention to detail and willingness to push itself to try different things is what really sets Clone of Europa  apart..Somebody sign them already!”- Roswell47, Metal Psalter (Jul 15, 2014)  – Clone of Europa review

“these Canadians have recaptured what made Soilwork (and Dimmu) great in the first place…Somebody sign these guys already”- Kelly Hoffart, Full Metal Attorney (Mar 02, 2014) – Clone of Europa review

“Hammerdrone offers a no bullshit, no synths, no clean vox, in your face fifty minutes of the most exciting music 2014 has delivered so far to my ears”- Jonathan, TZEEEAC (Feb 14, 2014) – Clone of Europa review

“a perfect combination of melodic and extreme…this Metal band helps give the underground of Metal its grand reputation”- Stone, Metal Odyssey (Jul 01, 2013) – A Demon Rising review

“Their music has a certain unholy majesty to it that few bands can obtain…” – Matt Baggins, Two Metal Guys Reviews (Mar 13, 2013)  – A Demon Rising review

“a great, hard-hitting Death Metal experience”- The Circle Pit, The Circle Pit (Jan 11, 2013) – A Demon Rising review

“Lead vocalist, Graham Harris, had impeccable skill, projection and charisma – as did bassist Teran Wyer and guitarist Curtis Beardy.  Their stage dynamics exuded chemistry, adrenaline and drive…Lead guitarist, Rick Cardellini stood out with his intricate solos and expressive musicianship.  All in all, Hammerdrone were my favourite band of the night, and – in my opinion – the Wacken Battle winners.” – Amina Abdelwahab, Metal Master Kingdom (Jun 9, 2018) – Live Review

“Frontman Graham Harris was on fire during the entire concert, growling and roaring (and also making faces) like a beast, while his bandmates…delivered a well-balanced fusion of the more harmonious lines from Melodic Death Metal with the sheer heaviness and aggressiveness of old school Death Metal…after Hammerdrone’s concert was over, I knew the judges were going to have a very difficult time deciding who should be crowned the 2018 champions.” – Gustavo Scuderi, The Headbanging Moose (Jun 9, 2018) – Live Review

“This was the third time I had seen them play live over the past three months, and no lie, these adepts of melodic death metal never fail to awe…”- Xavier Catterinch, Metal Master Kingdom (Apr 6, 2018) – Live Review  

[Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics]

EP Title: A Trinity Of Rage
Release Date: December 10, 2021
Label: Self-released
Distribution: Self-released

Track Listing:
1. Part I – Rage, Corporeal (03:28)
2. Part II – Rage, Besieged (10:54)
3. Part III – Rage, Consummated (06:00)
EP Length: 20:23
 
EP Credits:
• All songs performed by: Hammerdrone
• All songs written by: Hammerdrone
• Produced by: Hammerdrone
• Mixed by: Vinnie Cardellini at Goldfinch Studios, Canada
• Mastered by: Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studios, Sweden
• EP Artwork by: Graham Harris
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

EP and Live Band Line Up:
Graham Harris (Vocals)
Curtis Beardy (Rhythm Guitar)
Teran Wyer (Bass)
Rick Cardellini (Lead Guitar)
Vinnie Cardellini (Drums)

L-R: Teran Wyer (Bass) | Rick Cardellini (Lead Guitar) | Curtis Beardy (Rhythm Guitar) | Graham Harris (Vocals) | Vinnie Cardellini (Drums)
Photo Credit – Suzie Cardellini

Calgary, Canada’s death metal juggernaut, Hammerdrone, return with their most ambitious recording yet: “A Trinity of Rage”.

Deliberately written as a concept release and painstakingly crafted over the course of four years, the EP is accompanied by an original short story, “Eversor” (available as a bonus download via Bandcamp). The story revolves around the fictional second book of Revelation, in which is foretold the threat of Heaven’s destruction at the hands of Eversor, The Destroyer.

As the written story of “Eversor” ends, the EP begins, with both the music and lyrics of the three songs completing the narrative arc that the story introduces.

At once aggressively heavy and hauntingly melodic, the band incorporates a variety of black and progressive metal influences to present an EP that both pushes the boundaries and embraces the roots of their old-school, melodic death metal origins.

Mixed by the band and then burnished to shine by the professional mastering skills of the legendary Jens Bogren (Amon Amarth, Be’lakor, Rotting Christ, etc) at Fascination Street Studios in Sweden, the result is an epic and forceful musical expression of betrayal, broken faith and vengeance

“A Trinity of Rage” is due out December 10th, 2021, and will be available on all digital music platforms.

EP and Live Band Line Up:
Graham Harris (Vocals)
Curtis Beardy (Rhythm Guitar)
Teran Wyer (Bass)
Rick Cardellini (Lead Guitar)
Vinnie Cardellini (Drums)

Discography:
2021 – A Trinity Of Rage (EP)
2019 – An Ever Increasing Wave (Single)
2018 – Rituals Of Battle (Live) (EP)
2017 – Dark Harvest (Album)
2017 – Dark Harvest (Single)
2014 – Clone of Europa (Album)
2013 – Wraiths On The Horizon (Single)
2012 – A Demon Rising (EP)

Shared Stage with:
Archspire, Arrival of Autumn, Hideous Divinity, Depths of Hatred, Aggression, Divinity, Numenorean, Psychotic Gardening, Crimson Shadows, Vesperia, The Convalescence, West of Hell, Exit Strategy, Centuries of Decay, Mares of Thrace, etc.

Tours and Festivals:
2021 – Loud As Hell 9 – Drumheller, AB
2019 – Decimate 2 (co-headliner) – Calgary, AB
2018 – Loud As Hell 7 – Drumheller, AB
2018 – Boonsdale Fest/Wacken Metal Battle Final – Toronto, ON
2018 – UFR – Edmonton, AB
2017 – Days of the Dead IV – Red Deer, AB
2017 – Halloween in February – Calgary, AB
2017 – Loud As Hell 666  – Drumheller, AB
2013 – Calgary Metalfest 2 – Calgary, AB
2013 – Farmageddeon Fest – Riley, AB
 
Music Placements:
2016 – two tracks – “Subtle Knives” and “Clone of Europa” – featured on full-length movie “Adventures of a Pizza Guy”.

Quick Facts:
– “Dark Harvest” LP #9 on National Loud Charts –  Week ending Tuesday, May 22nd, 2018
– 2019 – ‘Metal Recording Of The Year’ WINNER at YYC Music Awards for “An Ever Increasing Wave”
2018 – ‘Metal Recording of the Year’ nominee at the 2018 YYC Music Awards for – Dark Harvest” (album)
2018 – Western Canada champion for Wacken Metal Battle Canada (www.metalbattle.ca) & 2nd place National.
2017 – “Dark Harvest” music video – World Exclusive Video Premiere – The Circle Pit 
2017 – Metal Master Kingdom Band of The Month – March
2013 – “A Demon Rising” EP – Metal Odyssey – Metal Pick of the Day

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