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Category: EPKs

0 EPK – Lÿnx – Self-Tilted (EP) (2021) – Bullzhorn Records

  • March 6, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Lynx (Bullzhorn Records)

EPK – Lÿnx – Self-Tilted (EP) (2021) – Bullzhorn Records

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

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

“We are incredibly proud of how our music has been received at home and around the world. With records being sold from Spain to Australia, United K and Japan it’s clear that the world is ready for rock to come roaring back into the mainstream. Our next albums plan on being heavier, full-length LP and we can’t wait to get back into the studio to bring it to all our fans. There is no skipping songs on a Lÿnx record, we want every track to be quality work that gets you either up and dancing, or a ballad that brings a tear to your eye, or a hard pounding heavy hit to get your anger out. For us this isn’t just a hobby, this is a lifestyle, and we want every one of our fans to be as ecstatic as we are about the music we create.” – Lÿnx 

EP Title: Long Live Rock N Roll
Release Date: Sept 15, 2021
Label: Bullzhorn Records
Distribution: Distrokid

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

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

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

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

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

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

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

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

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

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

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

=================================
The EP as a whole:
The EP is straight, heavy Rock’n’roll, you could pull it right off the shelf of any record store on the Sunset Strip in the late 1980’s, of course with our modern day producing and mastering!Track by Track:1) Long Live Rock’N Roll – We wrote Long Live Rock’N’Roll as a homage to all the legends that came before us.  Fangs put most of the lyrics to it and Blade composed the song.  From start to finish it’s the life experiences that Fangs acquired on top of his way of saying thank you and shouting out that Lÿnx will carry on the Rock’N’Roll dream that so many accomplished before us.2) Irresistible – Every good Rock’N’Roll band has to have a song about the ladies, don’t they!?  Irresistible is our shout-out to ladies, that one groove that appeals to them and also gives way to what every guy thinks when something smokin’ walks by.  Don’t lie to yourself, you know it’s true!3)  Crazy Crazy World – This song was meant and accomplished being our take on how the world had changed during the first of many COVID lockdowns.  How can we still make music? What’s happening? Can we start a band and accomplish our goals with all the craziness happening?  Fangs took the idea from what Blade and Flash put forth as an idea for a song and ran with what we were all feeling at that time. But wasn’t the world always a bit crazy to begin with?4) Red Rocket – With no instruments around and out for a tour the boys of Lÿnx had a sudden spurt of inspiration, how many times have you seen that beautiful Candy Apple Red Mustang, cruising down the road driving faster than you even though you’re already going 20 over the limit with that Miss. Right sitting in the passenger seat. Well, we took that shit and ran with it too.  5)  Forged In Fire – We all wanted to give our own take to an inspirational song, something that came from the heart and could be listened to if you had a bad day, or even if you’re busting ass at the gym.  Forged In Fire was our way of giving life to that idea.  We all choose to either give up, get pissed off, blame our shit on someone else, or rise to the occasion. This is Lÿnx’s promise.  WE WILL ALWAYS RISE

[Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics]

EP Title: Long Live Rock N Roll
Release Date: Sept 15, 2021
Label: Bullzhorn Records
Distribution: Distrokid
Track Listing:
1. Long Live Rock N Roll (4:36)
2. Irresistible (3:17)
3. Crazy Crazy World (2:50)
4. Red Rocket (3:33)
5. Forged in Fire ( 5:24)
6. Paranoid (2:55)
EP Length (22:37)
EP Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Lÿnx
• All songs written by: Lÿnx
• Produced by: Bullzhorn Records
• Mixed by: Priyam Baksi
• Mastered by: Matrix Audio
• Album Artwork by: Bullzhorn Records
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)
EP Recording Band Line Up:
Lazer Wild – Lead Vocals
Blade – Guitar, Back Up Vocals
Fangs – Bass Guitar, Back Up Vocals
Flash – Drums/ Percussion
Live Band Line Up:
Ja6ur – Lead Vocals
Blade – Guitar, Back Up Vocals
Fangs – Bass Guitar, Back Up Vocals
Flash – Drums/ PercussionDiscography:
Feb 2021 – Lÿnx Self Titled Debut – EP
Sept 2020 – Long live Rock N Roll – EP

Lÿnx is the 80s inspired Hard Rock/ Metal four-piece currently based in Calgary, Alberta Canada. During the 2020 pandemic, the band was formed by former vocalist Lazer Wild and Lead Guitarist Blade. Soon after bassist Fangs, and Drummer Flash joined and Lÿnx was formed. The band is currently fronted by Ja6ur on Vocals, Blade on guitar, Fangs on bass, and Flash on Drums/ Percussion. Connected by a shared love of 80s glam metal and hard rock, the band immediately set about writing original songs that embody the style and swagger of the past, while embracing the polished production and down-to-earth grit of their more modern rock influences. Lÿnx released their debut self-titled EP in February 2021 followed up by their second EP titled “Long Live Rock N Roll” in September 2021 with Bullzhorn Records. Since their releases, the band has gained popularity through various reviews on different media platforms in Europe, Australia, and North America. Having gained a reputation for their anthemic choruses, sizzling guitar solos, and powerhouse vocals Lÿnx has garnered a dedicated and eclectic international fan base. The band has hit the stages with high energy and connected with their audiences through the love of Rock N Roll. The band aims to build on the momentum created by their released music and push their sound into even more extreme levels of Rock N Roll.

EP Recording Band Line Up:
Lazer Wild – Lead Vocals
Blade – Guitar, Back Up Vocals
Fangs – Bass Guitar, Back Up Vocals
Flash – Drums/ Percussion

Live Band Line Up:
Ja6ur – Lead Vocals
Blade – Guitar, Back Up Vocals
Fangs – Bass Guitar, Back Up Vocals
Flash – Drums/ Percussion

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

0 EPK – Celestial Wizard – Winds of The Cosmos (2022)

  • March 2, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · Celestial Wizard · EPKs

EPK – Celestial Wizard – Winds of The Cosmos (2022)

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

For fans of Dark Tranquility, Firewind, Amon Amarth, Arch Enemy, Galaktikon

“Winds Of The Cosmos is a veritable blend of power metal and death metal. The songs combine crushing and aggressive vocals with a thrashy and melodic style of guitar playing. The drums are clear and punchy and give a solid foundation and framework for the music to thrive. All these elements together create something new and unique in its own right, blazing a new trail of melodic heavy metal.

The album’s lyrics guide the listener through a choice mix of fantasy and sci-fi themes, ranging from frosty Dungeons and Dragons excitement to space travelers and black holes. The lyrics also delve into personal struggle and growth, allowing fans to connect with the music on a deeper level.” – Celestial Wizard

Album Title: Winds Of The Cosmos
Release Date: July 15, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: DistroKid

Facebook.com/CelestialWizardOfficial – Instagram.com/celestialwizard_co – YouTube

Spotify – Celestialwizard.bandcamp.com – Apple Music

“Celestial Wizard “Denver’s CELESTIAL WIZARD is a rather unique band combining several elements to make a truly unique sound. Formed in 2018 and with one album already under their belts, their sophomore release, Winds of the Cosmos, is my first exposure to this band and from what I have heard, I like their approach. They take elements of traditional, power, and melodic death metal that can remind someone of say CHILDREN OF BODOM  in one minute then sound like a band like BRAINSTORM the next. All I know it that this is one of the most interesting albums to come out in a while.” – Metal Rules

 

“The band have continued to deploy death metal vocals (and other ingredients of melodic death metal), as well as the kind of singing familiar to power metal addicts, and that juxtaposition is certainly a big reason why this band’s hybrid sound has become appealing in dark corners such as ours. But those tasty riffs have a lot to do with the appeal as well, and the song “Revenant” is a fierce example of that. No wonder, then, that we happily agreed to premiere a guitar-playthrough video for that song today.” – No Clean Singing

 

“Celestial Wizard Makes ‘Skull-Crushing Friendship Metal’” – Westword

 

“Winds of the Cosmos is a fun album, and Celestial Wizard’s use of death growls within the confines of power metal is surprisingly enjoyable.” – Metal Epidemic

“the Americans have an ace up their sleeve, which gives them a real unique selling point, especially with their sometimes extremely heavy interpretation of melodic metal styles, which is based on Gothenburg bands.”  – Powermetal.de

“This is pretty cool, it’s a bit power metal, it’s thrashy, it’s got a bit of a fun catchy thing going on but with some cool harsh stuff too… lots of great stuff converging… Great stuff!” – Moshpit Radio – 89.9 FM (Madison, WI)

 

“…this was an absolute blast to listen to. The number of different genre influences sprinkled over the meaty slab of Metal at the core of the album add variety and genuine surprises and despite the sillier aspects being delivered with a knowing wink, the quality of the music is anything but a joke. So next time you’re in the mood for some jaunty fantasy adventure why not choose an album that ditches the broadsword for a pair of swinging fists. You don’t need to cast spells when you can knock a dragon the fuck out with riffs!” – Ever-Metal

 

“This is a really easy album to love and an even easier band to root for. Serious chops, with a not-so-serious attitude, playing a brand of metal made for a good time.” – Teeth of The Divine

“Overall – Spectacular, beyond belief. ‘WOTC’ is an album of such metallic magnitude, that everyone needs to hear it, at least once in their lives, by which time, most’ll be hooked. Slotting so firmly into the fantasy metal genre, it genuinely captures the central crux of what it’s all about and how fantasy metal should sound. A production which lifts the atmosphere, skywards, through every note, ‘WOTC’ is a sheer delight to hear and experience and it is a true experience. Dazzlingly colourful, performed with real panache, it’s a true metallic light show of sounds. 10.10” – Rock Queen Reviews 

“This journey, both in its fictional narrative and personal growth, as well as instrumentally, has been a job very well accomplished. The energy and quality in each of their compositions is emphasized, familiarizing their influences in each genre that they gave to the album and thus demonstrating that they have chosen a good path to continue experimenting.” – The Dark Melody

 

“any fan of power metal with a blackened vocal delivery will find this an interesting and enjoyable listen. ” – Metal Digest

 

“heavy/power metal out of Denver that caught my eye. The music video for their first single was a ton of fun. ” – Metal Utopia

 

“From start to finish, along the abundant 43 minutes of this album, you can listen to a series of convincing songs, full of energy and all the classic canons of the particular musical genre… If you are a fan of Swedish Melodic Death Metal, you will certainly like this record.” – All Around Metal 

 

“Strong vocals, strong melody, first-class instrumentation and absolute catchy tune (Steel Chrysalis) guarantee. I wish that ARCH ENEMY could also serve with such a hit this year.” – Twilight Magazin

Celestial Wizard is a fantasy-inspired heavy metal band based out of Denver, Colorado. Formed in 2018, this heavy metal quartet delivers crushing riffs and grand stories of dragons and wizards. Seeking to stand out among the others, Celestial Wizard combines the best elements of death metal with symphonic and synthwave elements creating a unique and engaging sound.

In the beginning, they carried a symphonic, fantasy sound dousing every song with a healthy dose of strings, choirs, synthesizers, and the like. This vibe can be heard on their debut album “A Sinister Awakening” (2018). Intended to be a concept album, they marketed some of the limited edition tapes and mini VHS tapes as though the album was a movie, thus The tapes ended up getting put in the soundtrack section of record stores.

The next year, drummer Tim Gillman joined Nick Daggers (guitar/vocals), Guillermo Jurado (guitar/bass), and Amethyst Noir (vocals) and they slashed most of the unnecessary backing tracks and refocused the music on the riffs and the core elements of the band. The evolution is reflected in the second album “Winds Of The Cosmos” (2022) (Release Date July 15th).

They deliver an energetic and engaging performance while keeping the sound tight. They make an effort each night to make their songs come alive and immerse the audience in their love for playing. They have played with bands including Alestorm, Gloryhammer, Insomnium, Nekrogoblikon, and Unleash The Archers. Combining their passions of Dungeons and Dragons, space adventure, and fantasy, Celestial Wizard takes influences like Arch Enemy, Metallica, Firewind, and Turisas and forge a path all their own!

Shared Stage with:
Alestorm, Gloryhammer, Holy Grail, Night Demon, Insomnium, Nekrogoblikon, Aether Realm, Unleash The Archers, Angra

Album Band Line Up:
Nick Daggers – Guitar, Vocals
Guillermo Jurado – Guitar, Bass
Tim Gillman – Drums
Amethyst Noir – Vocals

Live Band Line Up:
Nick Daggers – Guitar, Vocals
Dahlia McAluney – Bass
Tim Gillman – Drums
Amethyst Noir – Vocals

Discography:
2022 – Winds Of The Cosmos
2018 – A Sinister Awakening

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

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. The band name Celestial Wizard was two words they just pulled out of a hat. In 2018, they sat down as a band and just wrote down as many cool words as they could, and put them all in a hat. After a couple of tries, they pulled out those two words and they stuck!

2. Before their current drummer Tim was in the band, he unknowingly saw them at a show performing with Aether Realm and Gloryhammer. If you look back at a photo they posted back in 2019 you can pick him out in the crowd, looking comedically surly.

3. The legendary Dan Goldsworthy did the art for both Winds Of The Cosmos and Ice Realm. He’s known for doing the art for all of the Alestorm and Gloryhammer albums, as well as many others.

4. Their debut album was intended to be a concept album, and they thought it would be clever to market some of the limited edition tapes and mini VHS tapes as though the album was a movie. The tapes ended up getting put in the soundtrack section of record stores before people knew who they were, it was pretty funny.

5. Their first album was produced, engineered, mixed, and mastered by Eric W. Brown of Nekrogoblikon. He went on to become an award-winning composer for the soundtrack on the video game ‘The Messenger’

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

The album as a whole explained by the band:

Winds Of The Cosmos is a veritable blend of power metal and death metal. The songs combine crushing and aggressive vocals with a thrashy and melodic style of guitar playing. The drums are clear and punchy, and give a solid foundation and framework for the music to thrive. All these elements together create something new and unique in its own right, blazing a new trail of melodic heavy metal.

The album’s lyrics guide the listener through a choice mix of fantasy and sci-fi themes, ranging from frosty Dungeons and Dragons excitement to space travelers and black holes. The lyrics also delve into personal struggle and growth, allowing fans to connect with the music on a deeper level.

Track by track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY) explained by the band:

ANDROMEDA
This song is the album’s opener. The song sets the tone for what lies ahead and is the first instance of the melody that returns again at the end of the album. It’s a short, up-tempo instrumental track that helps build momentum for the first full song on the album.

REVENANT
Revenant is the first full song on the album, and its driving riffs continue the momentum from the previous track. The triplet beat of the guitars and drums gives the song a galloping, energetic feel. The song’s lyrics revolve around immortality and the loneliness and anger that come with living forever. The track is a step in a new direction from the previous album, featuring primarily singing, instead of the signature death metal vocal stylings.

ICE REALM
Ice Realm is punchy and vibrant right out of the gate, drawing listeners in with its thrashy opening riff. The track is upbeat, fun, and engaging, keeping the energy sky-high through the entire song. The song takes the listener on a Dungeons and Dragons-inspired quest through frost-covered land in search of a magic weapon to dispel the realm’s icy curse.

POWERTHRONE
This song shifts gears into a slower, more melodic zone. The song’s dramatic synth swells and guitar leads create an atmosphere of introspection and hope, giving the album a nice change of pace after the previous high-energy tracks. Powerthrone’s lyrics dig into losing a loved one or a mentor, and having to press forward and carve your own path. The melody and lyrics work in conjunction to deliver an emotionally charged experience for the listener.

ETERNAL SCOURGE
Scourge brings the energy back up again with hard-driving riffs that come crashing in after an ambiance of spooky, almost vampiric organs and guitars that set the mood. Fast and heavy, this song is sure to be a favorite of any of the fans that prefer heavier music and getting caught in a mosh. The song’s lyrics dig into plagues and war, violence and loss, and the rise and fall of heroes.

STEEL CHRYSALIS
Steel Chrysalis is a more epic, symphonic track in relation to the others on the album. The song’s main riff delivers a healthy dose of groove that the listener can lock on to and enjoy the heaviness of the chugging guitars that follow. This track is the most reminiscent of the previous album in terms of sound, so for those that have been fans from the beginning, this track will feel very familiar. The lyrics go over themes of being true to who you are and growing stronger amidst hardship, eventually becoming the best version of yourself.

UNDEAD RENEGADE
Of all the tracks on the album, Undead Renegade is more akin to old school death metal than anything else written previously. Heavy, unyielding riffs carry on throughout the song to complement the fast and furious drums that set the pace of the song, and the solos and leads that reside in the song are gnarly and shreddy, true to form. The lyrics are, as the title suggests, about zombies and the undead as a whole. Visceral, heavy lyrics that fit the song like a glove and give the listener the excitement and terror of catching a slasher flick with their friends.

CYBERHAWK
Undoubtedly the cheesiest track on the album, this song acts as an easy, fun palate cleanser just before the epic finale of the album. A notable outlier in terms of sound, the song delivers an 80’s inspired pop song energy that gets your fist-pumping in the air. Complete with catchy choruses and arena rock-style guitar solos, Cyberhawk is drenched in nostalgia. The lyrics are reminiscent of cartoons we watched as kids about heroes in space, going planet to planet fighting the bad guys and saving the day. It’s an easy song for the fans to enjoy and connect with.

WINDS OF THE COSMOS
Winds Of The Cosmos is the title track of the album, as well as the grand finale. It begins with the melody that listeners heard at the beginning of the album in Andromeda, giving the album a sense of closure and consistency. This track is incredibly dynamic, moving from driving riffs to somber acoustic guitars in the bridge, and then dramatic breakdowns and guitar solos to reward the listener. The track sitting at just under 8 minutes takes the listener through the journey of a man lost in space, and his coming to terms with the end as he drifts toward a black hole. The song is emotionally evocative, carrying the listener through what are almost the five stages of grief. The song resolves with a sense of hope and accomplishment, wrapping up the whole album nicely.

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Album Title: Winds Of The Cosmos
Release Date: July 15, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: DistroKid

Track Listing:
1. Andromeda  (2:25)
2. Revenant (5:30)
3. Ice Realm (4:08)
4. Powerthrone (4:30)
5. Eternal Scourge (5:32)
6. Steel Chrysalis (4:26)
7. Undead Renegade (5:04)
8. Cyberhawk (4:26)
9. Winds Of The Cosmos (7:44)
Album Length: 42:45

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: A. Noir, N. Daggers, T. Gillman, G. Jurado
• All songs written by: A. Noir, N. Daggers, T. Gillman, G. Jurado
• Produced by: Nick Nodurft
• Mixed by: Nick Nodurft
• Mastered by: Stephan Hawkes
• Album Artwork by: Dan Goldsworthy

Album Band Line Up:
Nick Daggers – Guitar, Vocals
Guillermo Jurado – Guitar, Bass
Tim Gillman – Drums
Amethyst Noir – Vocals

Live Band Line Up:
Nick Daggers – Guitar, Vocals
Dahlia McAluney – Bass
Tim Gillman – Drums
Amethyst Noir – Vocals

0 EPK – Graveshadow – The Uncertain Hour (2022) (M-Theory Audio)

  • March 1, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Graveshadow (M-Theory Audio)

EPK – Graveshadow – The Uncertain Hour (2022) (M-Theory Audio)

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

“It’s hard to put into words exactly how thrilled we are to be putting out ‘The Uncertain Hour’, our third full-length release. Through all the challenges of putting together a new lineup and jumping immediately into the fire of writing and recording, I don’t think we could have asked for a better group. It’s amazing to see that despite the new faces, the music still followed the natural evolutionary path the band was on. I feel we came out of this stronger, and the music definitely reflects it. Musically we wanted to achieve a massive wall of sound for this record. We took extra care when tracking guitars and composing the orchestral arrangements to work together to take the listener away and into the stories the lyrics are telling. With the lyrics, we tried to capture the emotion of the stories, at times mournful and others full of rage or optimism. Harmony and melody were our focus, to create a soundscape that is dynamic, engaging and powerful. I think everyone will be excited from the first note to the closing chorus!” – William Lloyd Walker – Rhythm/Lead Guitar – Graveshadow
 

For fans of Sirenia, Insomnium, Beast in Black, Amaranthe, Nightwish

Album Title: The Uncertain Hour
Release Date: July 15, 2022
Label: M-Theory Audio
Distribution: Sony/The Orchard

Facebook.com/Graveshadow – Twitter.com/graveshadowband – YouTube – Instagram.com/graveshadow

Graveshadow.bandcamp.com – Apple Music – Spotify

“If I were to write a one-word review for ‘Ambition’s Price’ (the album), it would simply be “wow”. The power, the energy, the vocal range, and the sheer infectiousness oozing from every minute of the albums fifty-minute length is just outstanding.” – Metal Gods TV

‘Ambition’s Price’ chosen as one of the top albums of 2018 by The Metal Sucks Podcast

“Graveshadow is a band born from universal metal and lyrical themes we all know and love. There’s really not a bad moment on the album. – This Noise Beneath The Snow

“Their Nocturnal Resurrection debut contains all sorts of Euro castle-storming flair, sounding wholly un-American (which is fine), while in the process, establishing these four dudes and two ladies as a band who is better than meets the eye.” – Dead Rhetoric

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Album Title: The Uncertain Hour
Release Date: July 15, 2022
Label: M-Theory Audio
Distribution: Sony/The Orchard

Track Listing:
1. Soldier of 34 (6:04)
2. Gwynnbleidd (4:18)
3. Sea of Apparitions (3:55)
4. The Swordsman (5:28)
5. Vengeance of Envy (3:57)
6. A Beautiful End (4:54)
7. The Betrayer (4:12)
8. Shadow Battles (4:19)
9. The Two Lived (6:45)
10. Damsel’s Finesse (7:05)
Album Length: 51:04

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Graveshadow
• All songs written by: Aaron Robitsch, William Lloyd Walker, Rachl Raxx Quinn
• Produced by: Graveshadow and Justin Aufdemkampe
• Mixed by: Justin Aufdemkampe
• Mastered by: Alberto de Icaza
• Album Artwork by: Roman Ismailov
• Member of ASCAP

Album and Live Band Line Up:
William Lloyd Walker – Rhythm/Lead Guitar
Rachl Raxx Quinn – Lead Vocals
Aaron Robitsch – Rhythm/Lead Guitar, Harsh Vocals, Orchestrations
Luci Rae – Bass
Bones Padilla – Drums

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

The album as a whole explained by William Lloyd Walker – Rhythm/Lead Guitar – Graveshadow

Musically we wanted to achieve a massive wall of sound for this record. We took extra care when tracking guitars and composing the orchestral arrangements to work together to take the listener away and into the stories the lyrics are telling. With the lyrics, we tried to capture the emotion of the stories, at times mournful and others full of rage or optimism. Harmony and melody were our focus, to create a soundscape that is dynamic, engaging, and powerful. (Answered by William Lloyd Walker)

Track by track explained by William Lloyd Walker – Rhythm/Lead Guitar – Graveshadow 

Gwynnbleidd
A straightforward, driven power metal song with lyrics weaving a tale of destiny and its inevitability. Also, living one’s life authentically is the only option.

Soldier of 34
A mournfully melodic track whose lyrics explore the hopelessness many feel in the face of losing a loved one. Processing those emotions but resolving in the final chorus with a desire to push forward.

Sea of Apparitions
A rhythm and harmony-heavy track that kicks off like a kick in the teeth. Delving into the importance of tackling challenges head-on instead of cowering before them and how the bonds of those closest to you are the most important resource.

The Swordsman
A crushingly heavy assault against the backdrop of soaring orchestral arrangements whose lyrics showcase that there is reason within chaos and that a life free from worry is not always the respite that it seems.

Vengeance of Envy
A balanced rock/metal assault whose lyrics delve into the concepts of loss of identity in pursuit of vengeance and the hate that can come along with it. Moreover how love and warmth can temper hate, becoming stronger than vengeance under the guile of justice.

A Beautiful End
A riff-heavy powerhouse that explores the duality of self and that even in death, there is beauty.

The Betrayer
A melodic powerhouse with harmonic accents and soaring orchestrations. Lyrically it explores betrayal, loss of family, and the will to carry on.

Shadow Battles
A rhythm and harmony-heavy track exploring the concepts of living in your father’s shadow and the desire to break toxic cycles in order to seize control of one’s own life. That family is sometimes the ones you choose, rather than the bloodline you were born into.

The Two Lived
A slow-moving, doom-heavy track with mournful orchestral arrangements. Exploring the concepts of duality and co-dependence. Underlying themes that violence is never the solution and that war must be avoided at all costs.

Damsel’s Finesse
A symphonic, groove-oriented track meant to sweep the listener away into a tale of pain, suffering, regret, and how facing adversity can lead to personal growth previously unimaginable.

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

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. Aaron (Lead/Rhythm Guitar and Harsh Vocals) is something of a machine, he is always coming up with new song ideas. What’s even better is that usually, he’s pitching something that’s near-complete, sans vocals. It’s great because it means we end up with a plethora of material to work through and are able to sort out what we feel are the strongest and best tracks for the record.

2. Bringing in Rachl was a no-brainer from the beginning. As soon as I ( William Lloyd Walker – Rhythm/Lead Guitar) heard her audition tapes, after listening for about 30 seconds I stopped the track and called Aaron. I told him to do whatever was necessary to get her on board. The dynamics and sheer power in her voice were exactly what we needed going into this next record and album cycle. Not only that but she’s one of the most amazing people you could meet and work with. She’s kind and caring but has no problem voicing her opinion when she doesn’t agree with something. We couldn’t have asked for a better comrade in arms to get this train rolling again.

3. I (William Lloyd Walker – Rhythm/Lead Guitar) think one of the best shows we ever did was opening for Tarja Turunen in Juarez, Mexico. Shows are their own beast and there are always challenges, but that night everything that could have gone wrong did. Issues with soundcheck, gear getting to the venue and a delayed start saw our set whittled down from 45 minutes to 15 minutes. We couldn’t check our orchestrations, so we had to run with songs that had no orchestral breaks, which was only a handful. We went out there and left it all on the stage that night, one hand tied behind our backs. The standing ovation and the RUSH of people to the merch booth after was one the greatest highs I’ve ever experienced. We can’t wait to get back and connect with our fans south of the border and beyond again!

4. It’s been mentioned in reviews before, but we draw a lot of lyrical inspiration from books/shows/video games/movies that touched our hearts in one way or another. We like to pick characters or stories whose experiences/message applies to a variety of life experiences. Not only that, it’s almost like a love letter to the universes that helped us get through some of the most difficult challenges in our lives. Sometimes there isn’t always a friend or family member who can relate to what you’re going through, and a good book or video game offers an escape to process and heal. ‘The Betrayer’ for example is about Maeiv Shadowsong from the Warcraft universe, a character who watches her closest comrades slaughtered by her people’s greatest enemy. The burden she carries of avenging her comrades, brother and people in the face of betrayal is one that sounds grandiose, but can be applied to everyday experiences. Her story was one that helped me process feelings of loss and betrayal when my life was falling apart around me. Being able to connect with a character who abandons everything to pursue what she knows to be right was fuel to keep putting one foot in front of the other and push for a better life for myself. Sometimes it helps to contextualize our own feelings against the backdrop of a character who is facing insurmountable odds, but comes out victorious. It can be incredibly empowering.

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

Left to Right: Bones Padilla – Drums, Luci Rae – Bass, Rachl Raxx Quinn – Lead Vocals, William Lloyd Walker – Rhythm/Lead Guitar, Aaron Robitsh – Lead/Rhythm Guitar and Harsh Vocals

Photo Credit – Rob Watkins – Watkins Media

Graveshadow is a 2016 “Sammie” winning (Sacramento News & Review) symphonic metal band from Sacramento, CA. Graveshadow was originally conceived in the winter of 2012 by rhythm guitarist, William Lloyd Walker. The current line-up features Walker along with vocalist Rachl Raxx Quinn, lead guitarist Aaron Robitsch, drummer Bones Padilla, and bassist Luci Rae.

After putting out two records in their debut ‘Nocturnal Resurrection’ (Mausoleum Records) and sophomore effort ‘Ambition’s Price’ (M-Theory Audio) the group has been praised for their genre-blending and mold-breaking approach to symphonic metal. Extensive touring through 2017 until the end of 2018 with the likes of Anvil, Unleash the Archers, Night Demon, Sirenia, Arkona, and more, the group forged a solid foothold before personal matter led to the exit of many of its original members. Galvanized with a new lineup, Graveshadow is preparing for the release of their third record ‘The Uncertain Hour’ via M-Theory Audio in 2022 and is ready to step back onto the scene.

The Graveshadow sound is defined by crushing guitars, beautiful keyboard melodies, thundering bass, and earth-shattering drums. Powerful operatic vocals shift into unearthly growls to create a rich and dynamic atmosphere that is ripe for storytelling. Whether it is a tale of personal struggle or of fantastical creatures, the listener is sure to find themselves immersed in a world apart.

Album and Live Band Line Up:
William Lloyd Walker – Rhythm/Lead Guitar
Rachl Raxx Quinn – Lead Vocals
Aaron Robitsch – Rhythm/Lead Guitar, Harsh Vocals, Orchestrations
Luci Rae – Bass
Bones Padilla – Drums

Discography:
2022 – The Uncertain Hour
2018 – Ambition’s Price
2015 – Nocturnal Resurrection
2014 – Graveshadow – EP
2013 – Blood and Fire – Single

Shared Stage with:
Children of Bodom, Apocalyptica, Unleash the Archers, Night Demon, Sirenia, Arkona, Threat Signal, Anvil, Tarja Turunen, Angra, Wednesday 13, Doyle, Sanctuary, Iced Earth, John 5, Exmortus, Warbringer

Tours and Festivals:
2018: Sirenia/Threat Signal (tour)
2018: Headline Tour
2017: Sirenia/Arkona (tour)
2017: Anvil/Night Demon (tour)
2016: Anvil/Unleash the Archers (tour)

Artists Endorsements: ESP

0 EPK – Buried Realm – Self-Titled (2022)

  • February 28, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · Buried Realm · EPKs
EPK – Buried Realm – Self-Titled (2022)

 

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

 

For fans of Scar Symmetry, Children of Bodom, Nevermore

 

Album Title: Self-Titled
Release Date: June 3, 2022
Label: Self-Release

 

“I am very pleased to present and share this new record with everyone. I’m honored to be joined by some killer musicians who’ve influenced my writing and playing over the years. Their contributions have truly helped bring the album to the next level. The general lyrical theme on this album is a paranormal and psychological twist… mind tricks if you will. I think its overall atmosphere is more energetic and aggressive compared to my previous two full-lengths.” – Joshua Dummer

 

BuriedRealm.com | Facebook.com/BuriedRealm | Instagram.com/BuriedRealm | Twitter.com/BuriedRealm | YouTube

 

Buriedrealm.bandcamp.com | iTunes | Amazon | Spotify

“Like its predecessor, this one’s an absolute ripper on the more technical / heavy side of the melodic death metal coin.” – Metal Sucks (Embodiment of the Divine Review)

“Creative, melodic and really charming, “Embodiment of the Divine” is an amazing experience. 10/10” – Metal Temple

“Well done melodic death metal that hits all the right marks.” – Dead Rhetoric

“The fast-punching grooves in the song  (The Wonder and Terror of Fortune) are a match for the ecstatic energy of everything else. One listen, and you can tell why this track was chosen as the album closer — it sends the listener out on an enormous high.” – No Clean Singing

“Buried Realm play an eager, galloping sort of melodeath, with lots of speedy leads, upbeat riffs, synthesizers, and solos everywhere. It’s almost as if Blind Guardian enthusiasm and subject matter met up with Scar Symmetry’s love of ambience and melodic-yet-death-y riffs… I commend Buried Realm for their songwriting, performances, and ambition.” – Angry Metal Guy

“Given that The Ichor Carcinoma has so many guests, it stands to reason that it has a diverse sound, ranging from hyper-speed solos, breakdowns, a mixture of screams and clean singing and more, but at the end of the day, it can be classified as an impressive melodic death metal debut.” – Decibel Magazine (Review – The Ichor Carcinoma 2017)

“Buried Realm sound a whole lot like what you’d expect given the bands whose guest musicians Dummer tapped for the project: aggressive, catchy, Sweden-inspired melodic death metal. If you like all the bands name-checked above, you’re sure to like this one. It’s incredibly well-done and expertly crafted.” – MetalSucks (Review – The Ichor Carcinoma 2017)

“On this album he proves himself to be some kind of instrumental wizard, and a vocal chameleon as well. But he has also surrounded himself with an array of guests that shines like a metal constellation in the night sky.” – No Clean Singing (Review – The Ichor Carcinoma 2017)

“From the very beginning of this track (Apeiron II: Global Dreamer), the riffing is here to cut your limbs ready to cook a nice melodic stew. Are you with me? Shades of Scar Symmetry, At the Gates, Hypocrisy, early Nightrage, late Soilwork and a fine slice of that machine gun style technical death metal drumming are found here. A delicious plate that I know will please a good bunch of my fellow seekers of melodic metal.” – Toilet  Ov Hell (Review – The Ichor Carcinoma 2017)

(Photo of Josh Dummer)

A true visionary is a rare thing, but such a man is Josh Dummer exemplified in his solo studio project Buried Realm. Influenced by personal experience and executed through metaphors, the progressive and heavy metal leaves room for interpretation and paints an interesting picture for listeners.  

Inspired by Opeth, Kreator, Old Man’s Child, Symphony X (and tons of old Hair Metal!), Dummer is a man who is not afraid to gaze into the abyss for music and lyrical inspiration. He describes Buried Realm’s music as ‘fierce, cutting, technical, melodic, and memorable.’ 

Following up on his long-time idea of releasing a solo album, he seized the chance with his first offering “Ichor Carcinoma”. Released in 2017 it features guests such as Christopher Amott (Arch Enemy, Armageddon), Peter Wichers (Soilwork), Teemu Mäntysaari (Wintersun) and Travis Montgomery (Threat Signal, Jeff Loomis band).

In 2020, Dummer released is the follow-up sophomore “Embodiment of the Divine” and while it was parallel to the first, both musically and lyrically, it took a  step in a sojourn journey. It featured many guests such as Andy Gillion (Mors Principium Est), Benjamin Ellis (Scar Symmetry), Bob Katsionis (ex-Firewind), Dean Arnold (Primalfrost, Operus, ex-Vital Remains), Lee McKinney (Born of Osiris), Peter Wichers (ex-Soilwork), Rafael Trujillo (ex-Obscura), and Ryan Strain (Chaos For The Masses.

The next chapter in Dummer’s journey is the release of his third self-titled Buried Realm studio album on June 3, 2022. Once again, Dummer has invited many guests on this record with Bob Katsionis (Witch Bones), Christian Münzner (Poison Palace), Christofer Malmström (Elder Gods), Christopher Amott (The Iron Flame/ Quicksand Memory), Dan Swanö (Where the Armless Phantoms Glide) and Dean Arnold (Spectral Light, Primalfrost). The lyrical theme on this full length is about paranormal and psychological twists… mind tricks.

Discography:
2022 – Buried Realm
2020 – Embodiment of the Divine
2017 – The Ichor Carcinoma

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

The album as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY) explained by Josh Dummer.

I think the overall atmosphere of this album is more energetic and aggressive compared to the previous ones. The general lyrical theme is a paranormal and psychological twist… mind tricks, if you will.

Track by track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY)

Spectral Light – One of the faster songs on the album. “Spectral Light“ carries fun, intertwining leads/ melodies and non-stop, in your face vocals. The lyrics are mostly inspired by disturbing horror stories of possession and exploring the dark side of one’s mind…

Poison Palace – “Poison Palace” is the most abrasive and intense Buried Realm song. Lyrically, it is about people becoming chemically dependent, believing there is no other cure for their ailments. Ultimately, driving people to the point of mind-warping insanity.

The Iron Flame – The loss of family and friends.

Witch Bones – A tale of temptation and resurrecting evil. Playing with fire, even though you know the outcome won’t be pleasant.

Where the Armless Phantoms Glide – A continuation to the “paranormal/ supernatural” theme. Putting together the back and forth vocal arrangement between Dan Swanö (growls) and I (screams) was a blast.

Elder Gods – “Elder Gods” was the first song written for the album. Upbeat, melodic, groovy. The lyrics are about creating your own “protective” god to justify terrible habits, but you’ve only created something more sinister.

Quicksand Memory – “Quicksand Memory” encompasses the overall vibe of the album, musically. The lyrics were written about forms of dementia, time/ memory loss – not understanding where you are, or who you are at times. The thought of sudden absence is terrifying.

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Album Title: Self-Titled
Release Date: June 3, 2022
Label: Self-Release

Track Listing:
1. Entrance (2:00)
2. Spectral Light (5:00)
3. Poison Palace (5:11)
4. The Iron Flame (4:46)
5. Witch Bones (3:43)
6. Where the Armless Phantoms Glide (4:01)
7. Elder Gods (4:17)
8. Quicksand Memory (5:37)
9. He’s Back (The Man Behind the Mask) (Alice Cooper cover) (3:53)
Album Length: 38:23

Album Recording Credits:
– All songs performed by: Josh Dummer
– All songs written by: Josh Dummer
– Produced by: Josh Dummer
– Mixed by: Ronnie Björnström
– Mastered by: Ronnie Björnström
– Album Artwork by: Pär Olofsson

Album Band Line Up:
– Josh Dummer – All instruments and vocals
– Heikki Saari – Drums
Guest Performances:
– Bob Katsionis (Witch Bones)
– Christian Münzner (Poison Palace)
– Christofer Malmström (Elder Gods)
– Christopher Amott (The Iron Flame/ Quicksand Memory)
– Dan Swanö (Where the Armless Phantoms Glide)
– Dean Arnold (Spectral Light, Primalfrost)

0 EPK – Falamh – Aeons Effigy (2022)

  • February 16, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Falamh

EPK – Falamh – Aeons Effigy (2022)

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

“The concept for this EP is about the journey and discovery of oneself and the transformation effects that occur. Whether being steadfast or yielding, change is always inevitable and it’s how someone reacts that can determine the perspective and outcome. The lyrics reflect this by telling tales of different characters and how their reaction affects them.” – Kyle Tayler (Guitars, Vocals) – Falamh

For fans of Dissection, Enslaved, Taake, Kampfar, Agalloch

EP Title: Aeons Effigy
Release Date: March 25, 2022
Label: Self Release

Facebook.com/Falamhband | Instagram.com/falamh.official | YouTube | Falamh.bandcamp.com

L – R – Dave Strba (Guitar, Backing Vocals) – Kyle Tayler (Guitars, Vocals) – Kye Bell (Bass)

Falamh, from North Bay, ON, Canada rose from the ashes of a previous band in 2019. Guitarist/vocalist Kyle Tayler had originally written material for that band, but after the dissolution, sought other creative outlets for them. Enlisting members from the previous band, Falamh was born and they got to work refining their melodic black/death metal.

Ultimately working collaboratively, Tayler guides the initial creation of song structures, riffs, drums patterns, and lyrics which are distilled by David Strba (guitars, backing vocals) and Kye Bell (bass). The three of them have considerable experience playing live and for them, the current focus is to present something more memorable with a stage presence that adds to the overall atmosphere of the music.

Falamh released their first EP “The Unbound Beyond: I” in 2020 and will follow it up with “Aeons Effigy” due out on March 25, 2022.

The EP as a whole explained by the band:

Melodic black/death metal with various genre influences. The concept for this EP is about the journey and discovery of oneself and the transformation effects that occur. Whether being steadfast or yielding, change is always inevitable and it’s how someone reacts that can determine the perspective and outcome. The lyrics reflect this by telling tales of different characters and how their reaction affects them.

Track by Track explained by the band:

1. Winds of Silence – Musically we tried to keep it up-tempo with lots of grooves to headbang along with. L Lyrically, it’s about perseverance and being resolute to any obstacles before you.

2. Blackened Waves – A bit more mid-tempo with some highs and lows to keep it dynamic. Lyrics, it’s about being lost in a storm at sea and having a near-death experience.

3. Benighted Weald – Starts off with some acoustic guitars to help tell the tale of someone cursed by the forest and no longer destined for this world.  

4. Aethereal Forger – Comes in slow but quickly heats up, keeping the moment throughout. Lyrics, it’s about the world being covered in fire in a Ragnarok type event and no one being able to stop it.

[Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics]

EP Title: Aeons Effigy
Release Date: March 25, 2022
Label: Self Release

Track Listing:
1. Winds of Silence (6:46)
2. Blackened Waves (6:52)
3. Benighted Weald (5:03)
4. Aethereal Forger (4:33)
EP Length: 23:14

EP Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Falamh
• All songs written by: Falamh
• Produced by: Dave Strba and Kyle Tayler at Chainsaw Media
• Mixed by: Dave Strba at Chainsaw Media
• Mastered by: Dave Strba at Chainsaw Media
• Album Artwork by: Kyle Tayler
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

EP Recording Band Line Up:
Kyle Tayler – Guitars, Vocals
David Strba – Guitars, Vocals (Backing)
Kye Bell – Bass
Tyler Chartrand – Drums (Session)

Discography:
2022 – Aeons Effigy – EP
2020 – The Unbound Beyond: I – EP

0 EPK – Turbo Lovers – Lettin’ It Fly! (2022)

  • February 15, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Turbo Lovers

EPK – Turbo Lovers – Lettin’ It Fly! (2022)

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

“We play the kind of music that we want to listen to and see live. It’s why this band started and why it’s still going after all these years. “Lettin’ It Fly!” is the next phase of our love affair with rock ‘n’ roll. We need to write and perform rock ‘n’ roll in the same way people need to eat and sleep. It’s something we have to do and will always do. We’re extremely proud of the work that we put into this album, and we feel we’ve stepped up our game in terms of songwriting and our recorded performance. We’re excited to incorporate these songs into our live show and for a wider audience to hear what we feel is our strongest record to date.” – B.J. Lisko – Guitar/Vocals – Turbo Lovers

For fans AC/DC, Kiss, Danko Jones, Backyard Babies

Album / Single Title: Lettin’ It Fly!
Release Date: February 4, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Self-Release

Facebook.com/theturbolovers | Twitter.com/turboloversrock | YouTube | Instagram.com/turboloversyo

Turbolovers.bandcamp.com | Apple Music | Spotify

“These never-say-die soldiers are the sole sleazers in their luckless mid-US town, yet they make a genre-hopping trucker metal juggernaut that easily straddles The Supersuckers and Y&T in the same goddamn song. – Classic Rock Magazine

“The pride of Youngstown, Ohio. Their headbanging take on AC/DC, shit-kicker country and 80s metal is low-brow and rabble rousing. – Classic Rock Magazine

“Aging rock ‘n’ roll lifers from the guts of Ohio use their arena rock illusions to create an impressively overblown collection of balls-out chug, sort of like Guns N’ Roses with male pattern baldness, bills to pay, and a flabby with that won’t stop bitchin’ at them. Desperation rock lives. Here’s the proof. – Classic Rock Magazine

“Turbo Lovers are, officially, from the worst town in America: Youngstown, Ohio, known far and wide for its off-the-charts unemployment and high school dropout rates, to say nothing of the subsequent crime sprees such circumstances foster. Naturally, they sound like a trailer park Judas Priest robbing a gas station.” – Classic Rock Magazine

“Youngstown’s Turbo Lovers shake rock ‘n’ roll to its very foundation and deliver it in its most basic and timeless form. – Cleveland Free Times

“Fun rock that is light-hearted and unpretentious. Oozing bravado, you can’t help but enjoy the music from this extremely likeable trio.”– Powerplay Magazine

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

STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:
1. B.J. Lisko is a journalist of 20 years generally focusing on music, professional wrestling, stand-up comedy and other entertainment. He also writes for wrestling star and Fozzy frontman Chris Jericho’s wrestling and rock news site, WebIsJericho.com. In his career, he’s interviewed literally thousands of notable entertainers including Gene Simmons, Bill Maher, Chris Tucker, Mike Tyson, Chris Jericho, Cody Rhodes, Kevin Owens, Lisa Lampanelli, Jim Norton, Doug Stanhope, Eddie Money, Belinda Carlisle, Phil Collen, LeAnn Rimes, Henry Rollins, Alan Thicke, Bruce Campbell, Lewis Black, Weird Al Yankovic, Tom Hamilton, Andrew Dice Clay, Lou Gramm, Norm Macdonald, Bob Saget, Louie Anderson and Jake “The Snake” Roberts to name a few.

2. Turbo Lovers are named after the Judas Priest song and sometimes get confused as a Judas Priest tribute band, especially when we play with tribute acts. The venue where this was most confusing to people was when we used to play at the bar owned by former Judas Priest singer, Tim “Ripper” Owens. So in certain situations, we have to really tag ourselves as “original rock” on posters and in social media posts, but they’re still is the occasional confusion.

3. Turbo Lovers was sort of a tongue-in-cheek name, to begin with. That’s a polarizing Judas Priest album to a lot of people, but we love it. The reason the name stuck was the band’s debut record unknowingly at the time received a good review in Classic Rock Magazine. So we sort of got stuck with it, but it’s always been a talking point, and a lot of time because that song and album is so polarizing with a lot of metal fans, it makes our name stand out and easier to remember.

4. At one show at the Agora in Cleveland, a crackhead wandered in, as they sometimes do, and stole a giant armful of our T-shirts. A week or so later, there was a news story about heroin deaths in Cleveland and the footage shot was of some random, sketchy folks walking down the street with their faces blurred. What wasn’t blurred was the matching Turbo Lovers shirts they were wearing. So, even though we lost about $100 in merch, I suppose we can chalk that up as an advertising expense. Not real sure what target audience that hits, but they say all press is good press, so what can ya do?

5. We kind of pride ourselves on being able to play with a giant variety of bands. In one particular 2-week stretch, we opened for 80s rock legends Loverboy at the Canton Palace, then we played with masked surf rock madmen, Daikaiju at a hole-in-the-wall dive, then we opened for an AC/DC tribute band at the bar owned by former Judas Priest singer, Tim “Ripper” Owens. And we went over great at all three shows!

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

Album / Single Title: Lettin’ It Fly!
Release Date: February 4, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Self-Release

Track Listing:
1. Should’ve Known Better (4:26)
2. Reasons That We Rhyme (3:19)
3. Too Cocky (4:27)
4. Lettin’ It Fly (3:45)
5. Gave Me A Sign (3:50)
6. Almost Great (3:22)
7. Finally Home (3:22)
8. Under Pressure (3:46)
9. Rockers Extraordinaire (4:23)
Album Length: 34:42

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Turbo Lovers
• All songs written by: Turbo Lovers
• Produced by: Dave Piatek
• Mixed by: Dave Piatek and Keith Dougherty
• Mastered by: Dave Piatek
• Album Artwork by: B.J. Lisko
• Member of ASCAP

Album and Live Band Line Up:
B.J. Lisko – Guitar/Vocals
Keith Dougherty – Bass/Backing vocals
Christian DeSantis – Drums

The album as a whole explained by the band:

Well, they’re complicated songs about complicated things. That’s obviously a joke. It’s 35 minutes of rocking, drinking, gambling, sex, and more rocking. We used to describe our live set as “35 minutes of ‘Whole Lotta Rosie,’ give or take. That’s still fairly accurate and is pretty apropos for “Lettin’ It Fly!”

Track by Track explained by the band:

1. Should’ve Known Better – A super anthemic, up-tempo and catchy tune. Lyrically, a lot of people will probably think that it references being in a bad relationship, and the lyrics could certainly read that way. It’s actually a really hooky tune about getting hooked on drugs, something that happened to me (and that’s happened to about a billion other people), after a bad car accident and more than a year’s worth of ultra-cheap painkiller prescriptions. It was pretty awesome until the drugs ran out. Then it was a total pain in the ass being hooked on something you once needed, but now we’re also physically dependent on.

2. Reasons That We Rhyme – If there’s a paint-by-numbers Turbo Lovers track, this is probably it. An AC/DC-influenced rocker that’s lyrically about falling for the wrong person, realizing it, then trying to break away. AC/DC is the band that inspired me to pick up a guitar in the first place, so naturally, a lot of what we do is rooted in their style.

3. Too Cocky – “Too Cocky” was a song I’m not sure we expected to come out as good as it did. It’s nice when you hear the final mix in the studio and it exceeds expectations. It’s an AC/DC-style tune with more cowbell that’s about people frowning upon bands that put on a bombastic stage show. People sometimes mistake confidence for arrogance. This song is about rock stars being rock stars and putting on a show. The video we shot for this reflects this attitude. It’s a slight nod to the “Bohemian Rhapsody” scene in Wayne’s World, and the whole goal was to make a ridiculous and fun video.

4. Lettin’ It Fly – The first song written for this album quickly stood out as the title track. It’s a Judas Priest/Turbonegro-inspired jam with lyrics that are about as subtle as a brick shithouse. It’s about getting down and dirty and quite literally letting it fly. A filthy song about filthy sex.

5. Gave Me A Sign – If there’s a track on the album that maybe leans a little more towards a modern rock sound, this is it. A hard-rocking song with a big catchy chorus, lyrically it’s about finding someone that makes you feel great about yourself.

6. Almost Great – The previous engineer we worked with used to have a nice way of saying when a recording take sucked. He’d say, “Well, it was almost great.” That sort of describes Turbo Lovers in the sense that we feel like we missed the rock scene that we love by a few decades. So, we love rocking in 2022, but we’d love for this band to be existing in 1987. So we started saying, “Well, it was almost great,” to describe shows where the crowd was weird or when we’ve almost gotten a big break with certain support dates. It’s a bit of an inside joke, but it kind of applies to the rock scene in general nowadays. A lot of the time it’s almost great. Musically, this one is inspired by classic AC/DC.

7. Finally Home – Finally home is directly inspired by UK rock band Massive Wagons, who are one of the best newer rock bands out there. It’s got a bit more of a punk rock feel, and lyrically it’s about getting back on stage after not being able to do so during the height of the pandemic. The idea was to write a big anthem for rocking out live again without any cares. Hopefully everyone can get back to that in 2022.

8. Under Pressure – A super catchy song about nearly having a mental breakdown, “Under Pressure,” was inspired by Rick Springfield and AC/DC. It’s really a simple tune but another with a big gang vocal chorus tailor-made for a singalong. We can’t wait to play this one live.

9. Rockers Extraordinaire – A rock song about rocking. This one has a bit of a Social Distortion-meets-Supersuckers feel, and lyrically it’s about a lifelong love affair with rock ‘n’ roll.

L-R: Keith Dougherty (Bass/Backing Vocals) | B.J. Lisko (Guitar/Vocals) | Christian DeSantis (Drums)
Photo credit – Gary Leininger

Turbo Lovers is a rock ’n’ roll power trio from Youngstown, Ohio that’s equal parts bravado, swagger and fun. Often chastised for taking their name from what some consider the worst Judas Priest album in history, the band’s sound is more akin to AC/DC, The Wildhearts, and Kiss than the New Wave of British Heavy Metal Gods. But yeah, there’s a little Priest in ‘em, too.

“Lettin’ It Fly” is the band’s new 9-track album, and it’s straight-up, infectious, and unpretentious rock.

“We’re sort of like AC/DC and Danko Jones in that with each album we’ll have a few surprises here and there, but it’s reliable working-class rock ’n’ roll,” said guitarist/singer B.J. Lisko. “It’s all about hooks and solid songs, and we feel like we’ve got plenty of those on the new album.”

The band’s steady stream of support shows opening for the likes of Warrant, Kix, Loverboy, Sebastian Bach, Slaughter, Reverend Horton Heat, Blaze Bayley, and Stephen Pearcy, among others, has netted it a solid fan base, and the racket made by three Ohio rock lifers has turned quite a few heads, as well.

The band originally started as a recording project for Lisko before morphing into somewhat of a revolving door of drummers and bass players. Bassist Keith Dougherty and drummer Christian DeSantis joined the band in late 2011, and have been in tow ever since.

“Turbo Lovers didn’t really become Turbo Lovers, officially, until these guys joined,” Lisko said. “It’s a cohesive unit now, and I couldn’t imagine doing this with anybody else.”

Discography:
2018 – Almost Greatest Hits – EP/compilation
2015 – Over The Hump – LP
2013 – Hopelessly Addicted – LP
2013 – Classic Rock Magazine sampler issue No. 191
2011 – A Hot Minute – EP
2010 – Classic Rock Magazine sampler issue No. 150
2009 – Roll Your Vice – LP (Cracked Piston Recordings)
2008 – Outstanding – LP (Cracked Piston Recordings)
2006 – Cock of the Walk – LP (Cracked Piston Recordings)
2005 – Glamnation Vol. 2 compilation (272 Records)
2004 – No Longer Attractive – LP (Cracked Piston Recordings)
2003 – Snake Oil Supercharm, a tribute to Zodiac Mindwarp & the Love Reaction compilation (Sleazegrinder Records)

Shared Stage with:
Loverboy, Kix, Sebastian Bach, Warrant, Jackyl, Slaughter, Stephen Pearcy, Sponge, Reverend Horton Heat, Blaze Bayley, Puddle of Mudd, Tantric, Fozy Shazam, Electric Frankenstein, The Hookers

Tours and Festivals:
2019 – Ribs-N-Rock Festival, Boardman, Ohio
2019 – It’s Only Rock Fest, Youngstown, Ohio
2018 – It’s Only Rock Fest, Youngstown, Ohio
2017 – It’s Only Rock Fest, Youngstown, Ohio
2009-2015 – Pabstolutely, Youngstown, Ohio

 

0 EPK – Crown of Madness – The Void (EP) (2022)

  • February 3, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · Crown of Madness · EPKs

EPK – Crown of Madness – The Void (EP) (2022)

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

For fans of Ulcerate, Vitriol, Gorguts, Fallujah, Black Crown Initiate

EP Title: The Void
Release Date: March 25, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Distrokid

 Facebook.com/crownofmadnessmetal | Twitter.com/crownofmadness_ | Instagram.com/crownofmadness.metal | YouTube

Crownofmadness.bandcamp.com

“The Manipulated“, turbulence and discord reign supreme, from the booming and battering drumwork and jolting bass-lines to the head-bashing chords and the dissonant, maniacally skittering leads. The feverish, violent derangement in the anti-harmonious but technically proficient music is matched by the rabid ferocity of the growled and screamed vocals. But other unnerving sensations flow through the musical maelstrom as well. Weird, wailing tendrils of melody surface along with musing bass notes and mercurial fretwork maneuvers that seem to channel both bewilderment and a chilling otherworldliness. Eventually the hyper-speed drumming falls silent and resumes only slowly, and the dissonant notes ring and reverberate in ways that sound agonized and dismal, leading into a final sonic paroxysm of harrowing torment. As you’ll see, the words are disturbing as well.” – No Clean Singing

““The Manipulated” stands at the center of the release and acts as the spine on which the other pages turn. The incredible drumming, airy melodies, and intricate guitar work make it one of the most impressive tracks on this EP, and maybe that I have heard this year. Of course, all of these things play right into my personal sensibilities, and as a fan of this set of approaches, Crown of Madness are really nailing it.” – Everything Is Noise

“Dark, sinister and brooding, it’s meloncholia is reminiscent of works from the Nordic countries with a frostbitten quality to it as the pair of vocalists cathartically spill their inner tormented nature with a majestic quality that is strangely mythical. “False God’s Hymn” then shatters that self loathing illusion with a vitriolic violent prayer to a wrathful God to give death amid a bludgeing of heavy gauge riffs. The piano is the only light in the dark World of the blood thirsty Crown Of Madness and if they so desire long may they reign [8/10]” – Metal Noise

“The EPs best tracks are the last 2 with “Anguish” (featuring Kaija Krimson of Anarcheon), a shifty, patient, nightmarish number and closer “False God’s Hymn”, where the piano briefly shows up again to create a haunting duality with the dense discordance perfectly. Clearly, a talented duo, who are also responsible for symphonic black/death metal project Arboreal also, Crown of Madness is a tasty little EP that will hopefully translate into an equally tasty full length sometime soon.” – Teeth of The Divine

“Moments of stunning textural beauty combined with ominous layers of interweaving intricacies in such a short timespan reveal the serious talent that this duo has. The quality of songwriting is astounding for such a newly founded band. Extreme, yet silver-tongued, I should mention that Sunshine’s vocals are phenomenal, her use of growls, screams and shrieks are all well-placed and count as an entirely different instrument. Her guitar work is equally mesmerizing. Heavy, inharmonious yet somehow memorable. Connors drums even on an electric kit sounds, technical, furious, and pummelling. Frenzied fills, unorthodox double bass and blast beats add chaos and structure to the already volatile ambience. You can hear the energy and passion Crown of Madness put into this EP. They just set the bar extremely high for a future full length, and I, for one, can’t wait to hear it. 4.5/5” – Metal Epidemic

“Blackened death with some melodic death stuff going on, mostly harsh and heavy with a kick of melodic black metal coldness. cool stuff.” – The Mosh Pit 89.9 FM (Madison, WI)

“Crown of Madness deliver a beautifully haunting form of dissonant death metal that leaves you teary-eyed at certain moments before dropping a gnarly riff of mosh-inducing goodness on you right after… If you like dissonant death metal then do yourself a favor and give The Void by Crown of Madness a spin. If you also like cute couples stories then even more reason to give a listen!” – Noob Heavy

“Crown of Madness enters the world of death metal with great force and quality, showing us and transmitting its essence to us from the beginning, an EP that leaves us with great expectations and waiting for more future works. Undoubtedly a band to follow if you are a fan of death metal, their debut has exceeded expectations, which makes us imagine that their next works will be exceptional.” – Dark Metal Divas

“Technique sans être trop étouffant, mélodique sans en faire des caisses, brutal et glacial, on obtient là un remarquable premier effort pour ce tout jeune duo venu du froid.” – Eklektik-Rock

L-R – Connor Gordon – Drums,  Sunshine Schneider – Vocals / Guitars
Photographer Credit – Savannah Adeline

About:
On a mission to bring beauty into dissonance, the wife and husband duo of vocalist/guitarist Sunshine Schneider and drummer Connor Gordon formed Crown of Madness over the Covid pandemic to write their first EP “The Void”.

Having met through World of Warcraft, having a lifelong love for heavy metal. movies and fantasy games as well as citing interests in games such as Dark Souls and Bloodbourne, their music has been greatly influenced by the dark and fantastical.

“We put a ton of energy and passion into producing this EP by ourselves, making this release an incredible feat for us as producer / musicians and as a couple. It’s amazing to look back on ourselves as teenagers who shared a love for metal, and now being extremely proud of the music we created together. As cliche as this may sound, we want people to love our music as much as we do.” – Crown of Madness

All recordings for The Void were tracked in Sunshine Schneider (Vocals / Guitars) and Connor Gordon (Drums) apartment, utilizing an electric Roland drum kit and a Kemper Profiler. Track four of the EP (Anguish) is about a dream Sunshine had and the featured vocalist, Kaija Krimson (Anarcheon), was in the dream.

“The Void”, due out March 25, 2022 is devastating and atmospheric and recommended for fans of SoulsBourne games and bands such as Ulcerate, Vitriol, and Gorguts.

EP Line Up:
Sunshine Schneider – Vocals / Guitars
Connor Gordon – Drums
Claine Lamb – Guest Piano
Kaija Krimson – Guest Vocals

Live Band Line Up:
Sunshine Schneider – Vocals / Guitars
Connor Gordon – Drums
Sylvain Maltais – Bass

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1.  Crown of Madness members met each other on World of Warcraft back in 2008. As young teenagers,  Sunshine Schneider (Vocals / Guitars) and Connor Gordon (Drums) shared a love for heavy metal and fantasy games, which is strongly reflected in their music. The duo later got married in 2015 and started writing in a more serious manner starting in 2019.

2. All recordings for The Void were tracked in  Sunshine Schneider (Vocals / Guitars) and Connor Gordon (Drums) apartment, utilizing an electric Roland drum kit and a Kemper Profiler.

3. Track four of the EP (Anguish) is about a dream Sunshine had and the featured vocalist, Kaija Krimson (Anarcheon), was in the dream.

[Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics]

EP Title: The Void
Release Date: March 25, 2022
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Distrokid

Track Listing:
1. Pale (feat. Claine Lamb) (2:03)
2. Eternal Feeding (2:38)
3. The Manipulated – (4:14)
4. Anguish (feat. Kaija Krimson) (4:31)
5. False God’s Hymn (feat. guest piano Claine Lamb) (4:47)
Total Length: 18:13

EP Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Sunshine Schneider, Connor Gordon
• All songs written by: Sunshine Schneider, Connor Gordon
• Produced by: Sunshine Schneider, Connor Gordon
• Mixed by: Connor Gordon
• Mastered by: Stu McKillop
• Album Artwork by: Jois Cabe
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

EP Line Up:
Sunshine Schneider – Vocals / Guitars
Connor Gordon – Drums
Claine Lamb – Guest Piano
Kaija Krimson – Guest Vocals

0 EPK – Yawn – Materialism (2022) (Mindsweeper Records)

  • February 3, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Yawn (Mindsweeper Records)

EPK – Yawn – Materialism (2022)

For fans of Meshuggah, Car Bomb, Vildhjarta, Gojira, Tool

“«Materialism» reflects the band’s vision of bringing improvisation-based music to the fore in the context of modern concert production. The album features beautiful improvised soundscapes combined with aesthetics drawn from hard-hitting modern progressive metal bands. Yawn’s debut album takes you on a 37-minute musical journey, giving you the best representation of the band’s aesthetic and musical visions.” – Yawn

Album: Materialism
Release Date: February 18, 2022
Label: Mindsweeper Records
Distribution: Distrokid

Yawn.no | Instagram.com/yawnofficial | Facebook.com/yawnbandofficial | YouTube

Yawnofficial.bandcamp.com | Spotify | Apple Music

 

“Yawn, anything but a bore” – Heavymetal.no

“Right out of the gates Yawn makes an amazing impression” – The Progressive Subway

“2022 is just starting and some incredible stuff has been released already. For example, “Materialism” – the debut album of the Norwegian experimental band YAWN. Don’t get fooled by the name, their music is anything but yawn-worthy…. “Materialism” kept me on my toes from start to finish. I always admire interesting and avant-garde, but well-balanced approaches to metal like this. This album is another reminder how heavy music doesn’t have to be just blast-beats and growls to make your stomach turn. 9/10” – The Prog Space

“these newcomers, who deliver their first album here, have created a universe of their own… Yawn brilliantly takes up the challenge of playing complex and avant-garde music while remaining affordable for the greatest number. The striking themes, the effectiveness of the riffs and a clever mix of alternating atmospheres have a lot to do with it. The brevity of the disc (37 minutes) also contributes to the fact that it is quickly apprehended. Norway definitely does not stop supplying us with remarkable talents and we are impatiently awaiting the next creations of these five inspired musicians.” – Chromatique

“That Materialism is self-produced — McCormick, Lysne and Rydh are credited as recording, while Tom “Iggy” Ignatus mastered — only underscores the self-determination on the part of Yawn, who’ve apparently spent the last several years putting these pieces together. Their time has not been misspent. Materialism is ambitious as noted, but refuses to leave any of its ambitions unmet, and the surety of what Yawn bring to bear throughout is luminescent, sometimes to a strobing degree. May they continue the exploration of their own wavelength that they’re beginning here.” – The Obelisk

“this is one of the greatest albums I have ever heard… if you want a listening experience that is as expansive as it is inventive, as visceral as it is technical and as savage as it is drop-dead gorgeous, then by fuck do we have the band for you. 10/10” – Ever Metal

“It’s really inspiring to see a band come up with such a unique approach to music and fuse such different elements and sounds. We’re intrigued by the unique concept that Yawn have come up with and excited to hear what’s coming our way on their debut album. We’re pretty certain you’re in for a treat” – Gig Radar

“It’s a demanding album, bulkier, heavier, more difficult than plywood, but equally interesting.” – Stormbringer

“Debut album of this group that brings very experimental music. The tonality is modern – you can even risk that it is djenty – but in its essence it is an exercise between jazz fusion with progressive.” – World of Metal

L-R – Mike McCormick – Guitar/Electronics, Simen Wie – Bass, Tarjei Kjerland Lienig – Synthesizer, Torfinn Lysne – Guitar, Oskar Johnsen Rydh – Drums
(Photographer Credit: Emil Vestre)

As 2022 begins, Yawn stands at the ready with their first full length release: “Materialism.” The album reflects the band’s vision of bringing improvisation-based music to the fore in the context of modern concert production. The album features beautiful improvised soundscapes combined with aesthetics drawn from modern progressive metal bands like Meshuggah, Car Bomb, and Vildhjarta. Yawn’s live performances have been described as a magical experience where improvised, open, and formless soundscapes seamlessly transform into and away from machine-precise rhythms, all without warning from the performers on stage.

Since the band’s debut in 2020, Yawn has released their first single “Cement,” toured across southern Norway, and played for 15000 housebound viewers during a streaming concert from Chateau Neuf in Oslo shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic reached Norway.

After the release of Materialism on February 18th, 2022, the band will embark on a European release tour from February 25th to March 9th.

Discography:
2020: Cement – Single
2022: Materialism – Album

Shared Stage with:
Navian, Next Life, Musth.

Tours and Festivals:
2020 – Serendip festival (Oslo)
2020 – Brakkesyke (Digital festival during covid. Audience: 15 000)
2020 – Yawn cement (single), release-tour (Norway)
2020 – Jazzfest Digel (Oslo)
2022 – Materialism – release tour (EU/UK, two weeks)

Band Storys / Fun Facts:

1.  During a concert, performing “Lachrymator II: Lignite” our bass player Simen broke not only one, but two of his bass strings during the intro. He pulled off the rest of the show using the two remaining strings, and he played great! After the show, people have referenced this part of the show as some sort of “performance art” -thing, and people have asked us if he broke the strings intentionally.2. All of our recordings are DIY (Except for mastering). Every sound on this record is recorded by ourselves in our own studio, the production is a collaboration between Oskar, Torfinn and Mike and the mix is done entirely by our drummer Oskar.

3. Back in 2019 forming the band, we planned on having a saxophone player in the band.

4. One time playing a show in the southern part of Norway (Kristiansand), Tarjei walked off stage during his and Mike’s impro-duet, leaving the musical landscape to be filled by Mike alone without telling him in advance.

5. Only two minutes and one second of this record contains written-down chord changes.

Album: Materialism
Release Date: February 18, 2022
Label: Mindsweeper Records
Distribution: Distrokid
Track Listing:
1. Cement III : Gobsmack (2:35)
2. Cement III : Fall Out (1:50)
3. Cement III : Restart, Reload, Rebuild (3:35)
4. Chaos I : Artificial Superstition (2:34)
5. Chaos I : Greed (1:51)
6. Chaos I : ISM (3:21)
7. Chaos I : Untelligence (1:26)
8. Chaos I : Order (0:40)
9. Lachrymator II : Lignite (2:28)
10. Lachrymator II : Erebus & Terror (2:33)
11. Lachrymator II : Tripwire (2:36)
12. Lachrymator II : Unstoppable force (1:57)
13. Tokamak IV : Immovable Object (2:45)
14. Tokamak IV : Critical Mass (1:21)
15. Tokamak IV : Fluorescence & Entropy (3:48)
16. Tokamak IV : Confluence (2:03)
Album Length: 37:31

 

Album / Single Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Yawn
• All songs written by: Yawn
• Produced by: Torfinn Lysne, Oskar Johnsen Rydh & Mike McCormick
• Mixed by: Oskar Johnsen Rydh
• Mastered by: Tom “Iggy” Ignatius
• Album Artwork by: Arne Martin Nybo (Painting), Torfinn Lysne (Design).Album and Live Band Line Up:Torfinn Lysne – Guitar
Oskar Johnsen Rydh – Drums
Mike McCormick – Guitar/Electronics
Simen Wie – Bass
Tarjei Kjerland Lienig – Synthesizer

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

Track by Track explained by Yawn:

1. Cement III: Gobsmack
This song was clearly our strongest opener for the album. It represents the feeling of getting caught by surprise, smacked in the face out of nowhere, getting something really different than what you expected, and keep rolling with that.

2. Cement III: Fall Out
Fall out is the part where the song Cement all of a sudden takes a turn and goes into a way different musical landscape than what you would expect. This is a dramatic turn of events very early in the record, and it really gives you a taste of the contrasts this record has to offer. The song sounds like a dream where you don’t know if it’s going to end well or turn into your worst nightmare.

3. Cement III: Restart, Reload, Rebuild
You wake up from the dream. “Brace for impact”. After a minute of heavy 8-string riffing, the first guitar solo of the record is being introduced. Being performed by guitar-player Torfinn Lysne, this solo sets the course for the playful polyrhythmic phrasing heard throughout the record. With a tonal language inspired by Meshuggah’s Frederik Thordendal and a guitar sound heavily inspired by the crazy effects of Car Bomb’s Greg Kubacki, Torfinn shows you his best work as a soloist already at track number three. The track also is the ending part of the piece called “Cement”.

4. Chaos I: Artificial Superstition
Artificial Superstition is the first piece of the record based entirely on computer-generated sounds. All sounds heard in this track are created by processing tracks from other parts of the record – improvised ambiance becomes a drone, a drum fill becomes a grinding texture, and a guitar riff becomes a steampunk sound effect. The piece is composed and performed by guitarist and programmer Mike McCormick, setting a high bar for the electronic soundscapes of this record.

5. Chaos I: Greed
“Greed” is a continuing of the exciting electronic works of Mike McCormick, combined with heavy polyrhythmic riffing from Torfinn and Oskar. The opening soundscape is described by drummer Oskar like being stormed by millions creatures coming after you. The music stops, and the main riff hits you. 10 000 tons of eight-string guitars combined with Tarjei’s stacked synths performing polyrhythmic sequences and unconventional melodies, displays Yawn’s raw aggression and the search for “something different”.

6. Chaos I: ISM
“ISM” (or “capitalism”) was one of the first parts of this record that we ever recorded. The Piece is based on a collective improvisation we did in the studio during the covid-summer of 2020. ISM features Mike’s digital processing of the instruments as its own participant in the collective improvisation. The song is mostly about building tension and letting go of traditional musical roles. This last part can very much be heard in the way the guitar is playing a repetitive “groove” while the drums are going in and out of time, playing phrases almost like a melodic improviser on top of the rhythm. The tension grows, and you reach the breaking point. The ending of the track represents the feeling of going over and over, trying to figure out a way to move forward but only ending up back to the start again and again, and slowly moving towards insanity. As the aggression builds, the tension can be heard in the music.

7. Chaos I: Untelligence
The walls are collapsing. You are way past the breaking point, and from here you can just hang on and keep going in the new directions you are constantly getting thrown into. The second part takes you back to the opening riff, but the rhythm has changed. This time more like desperate breathing for air, or holding on to a moving train at full speed. The track is building and building the intensity towards the end, and the final hit marks the ending of the first half of “Materialism”.

8. Chaos I: Order
“Order” is the section dividing the pieces “Chaos” and “Lachrymator”. The track is written and performed by Mike McCormick and represents indexing of our toolbox: a quick scan revealing the refined sound design of contemporary electroacoustic music alongside the brutality of harsh noise and grindcore aesthetics.

9. Lachrymator II: Lignite
Lignite is the first section of the piece called Lachrymator. This song is best known among our fans as the part of the show where Simen goes into insane mode, smashing a drumstick onto his bass strings like it’s literally the end of the world. The first time he did this during rehearsal, it blew us all away. No distortion or overdrive effect could ever come close to the raw aggressiveness of the sound coming out of his amplifier while hitting the strings in this way. When we recorded the track, we even changed the drumstick for a screwdriver. The way that bass guitar grinds along with our two guitars in the opening is exactly the pure aggressive energy and rawness we seek in our heavy sound.

10. Lachrymator II: Erebus & Terror
“Erebus & Terror” takes the listener into a new section of open improvisation. This part is put together from live recordings of improvisations from the tour we did after the first release of Cement in the fall of 2020. Little did we know that we were actually recording our new record performing this piece of collective improvisation as a part of our live set for this tour. The piece is based on a dynamic duo-performance of Mike McCormick and Tarjei Lienig, and when this piece is being performed live the rest of the band goes off stage, leaving this communicative moment between the two musicians, performing synthesizer and live electronics.

11. Lachrymator II: Tripwire
A new direction in the soundscapes of the record. Introducing the albums second guitar solo performed by Mike, accompanied by the playful bassist Simen Wie. This section presents the band’s roots in various Jazz-traditions as well as a unique soundscape. The guitar solo weaves a melodic narrative across the irregular form, linking notes and rhythms like the rhyming couplets of a poem.

12. Lachrymator II: Unstoppable force
You wake up from a dream, and immediately being overwhelmed by stress, panic, and anxiety. The track starts off with a repetitive rhythmic pattern, building tension. The hard-hitting rhythmic playing keeps going by Torfinn, Oskar, and Simen, while the first section of Lachrymator’s melody comes back with a restored new energy in a panicked fashion, performed by Mike and Tarjei. Eventually, the tension is released, and we get the massive sound of Yawn chugging slower and slower, moving towards the end of the world in an unsymmetrical rhythmical loop, almost like its “lagging”.

13. Tokamak IV: Immovable Object
The last hit-off Lachrymator’s ending starts off the first section of the new piece called Tokamak, giving you the unique sound designs of Oskar Johnsen Rydh, combined with the lingering growl of Torfinn Lysne’s 8-string guitar. the piece starts off with a dramatic effect, building curiosity to what is to come. A clock is being introduced, but there is something off about it. It’s uneven in time, and it’s making its way into a rhythmical pattern. Slowly the piece builds, creating a soundscape reminding you of the first glimpse of the sun after a storm, leaving the question: “what comes now?”

14. Tokamak IV: Critical Mass
Critical Mass is the second part of the piece titled Tokamak. The track is mostly based on a repetitive guitar phrase going over and over, printing itself in your memory whether you want it or not. The melody was based on a simple conversation between Oskar and Torfinn: “Why do we limit our tonal language to the chromatic scale, dividing notes only down to the semitones? Why not dive into the world of quartertones?” A few guitar-tunings later, we ended up with this simple, but catchy melody going on and on in both our heads, the following week. The melody continues on throughout the piece called “Tokamak”.

15. Tokamak IV: Fluorescence & Entropy
Fluorescence & Entropy is the longest track of this record. Presenting yet another unique soundscape, this track is actually something you can dance to! Yawn’s drummer Oskar really brings the groove on this one. Being all kinds of weird in the terms of both harmony, melody, tonality and rhythm this track still possesses a catchy and playful character.  The track ends with an improvised soundscape slowly removing instrument after instrument. At the end of the track, Mike is the only one left, performing a soundscape of microtonal guitar chords in an atmospheric manner.

16. Tokamak IV: Confluence
You thought we were done? Yawn saves the most brutal for last! Tuning the eight-string guitars down to the C# and kicking in the ring-modulator, Confluence is the perfect ending to the musical journey through this record. Smashing through polyrhythmic patterns, giving you riffs tuned so low that they can cause earthquakes. We want to thank the listener for staying with us all through this record with one last bulldozer of a track.

 

 

0 EPK – Day of Departure – Self-Titled (2022)

  • February 1, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · Day of Departure · EPKs

EPK – Day of Departure – Self-Titled (2022)

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

For fans of Lacuna Coil, Tool, Hammock, God is an Astronaut, If These Trees Could Talk

Album Title: Day of Departure
Release Date: March 25, 2022
Label: Bravemusic
Distribution: Bravemusic

Bravemusic.com/day-of-departure | Facebook.com/dayofdeparturedc | YouTube | Instagram.com/day_of_departure

DayofDeparture.bandcamp.com | Spotify | Apple Music

“The album is intended to take the listener on a journey from utter destruction and despair to a place where there is a new consciousness and reality that will break this unending cycle. The music is intended to provide a wide range of dynamics and atmospheres to elicit an understanding and a vibe for where the listener is within the narrative.  The music aims to juxtapose intense sonic blasting with lush and serene atmospheres” – Day of Departure

“I found this album to be exactly how it was advertised. Several styles are reflected here, with about as many different emotions as the human being can go through. It’s very personal journey, with thoughtful ponderings around every turn. Let yourself get swept away into their world, full of dark visions and figures, but with just enough light that you will go forward and not turn back. Embrace your future, for it is the only one you have. 9/10” – Metal Temple

“Welcome to the world of Matt Kozar and Day of Departure. Buckle up, as he takes you on an eventful journey of wonder and fascination, with his expansive, ambitious new album.” – V13

“Led by guitarist Matt Kozar (Brave) and singer Michelle Schrotz, Day Of Departure is an expansive, almost cinematic experience, with songs ranging from rockers (“Pierce the Sky (Conflict)”) to ambient tracks (“The Future Has No Form”). Schrotz’s voice adds an ethereal quality to some of the songs.. Overall this is a very interesting debut, fun to listen to, and a great first step for Day Of Departure.” – Heavy Music Headquarters

“A beautiful opus” – Rock n Force

“Undoubtedly a complex album full of quality in all aspects, highly recommended.” – Dark Metal Divas

“It’s very seldom that I am speechless and Day of Departure absolutely took my breath away. The music of Day of Departure can only be described as tragically beautiful. It encapsulates a vast plane of musical influences from Italian metal icons Lacuna Coil to the lush, dark melody of Norwegian black metal legends Darkthrone. Day of Departure delivers an apocalyptic message to the world that the world we take for granted may be closer to its end than we know and that we humans may be living on borrowed time. Day of Departure presents humanity with a powerful testimony to our mortality as human beings. It is a message that not everyone can deliver or even swallow, but Day of Departure is sharing a message with us all that is more than worthy of a listen.”  – Southeast of Heaven

“In the end, it is not in the destination but, in the journey and self-discovery. Not only does this album tell a visually stunning story, it opens our minds to our own questions and discoveries, allowing us to explore what we may simply come to ignore as we stagnate our growth and opportunities to thrive. Musically complex, Days of Departure have truly created an album that not only visually stuns, but takes songwriting, and musical prowess to new, unimaginable heights.” – Metal Goddesses

“What an ingenious idea it is, to set up a group of musicians, seemingly trading as cooperative. With the unique idea of having the flexibility to morph into different bands under the dictates of alternate musicians who have developed their own separate projects. In this case, it is ‘Brave, guitarist ‘Matt Kozar who has put together a fascinating suite of atmospheric well-considered ambient progressive music.” – House of Prog

“if you just want to chill out with the fireplace and a glass of red wine in hand, then ‘Day Of Departure’ is a great soundtrack.” – Arrow Lords of Metal

“Modulating between more abrasive, noisy verses and extended, echoing guitar breaks, Day of Departure, part of the BraveMusic collective, seem to have located their sound somewhere between the intricate art rock of Tool and the straightforward energy of Lacuna Coil.” – Alchemical Records

“DC progressive metal veterans Brave have announced another project to be released under the “Bravemusic” umbrella.  The project is called Day of Departure and this marks the 2nd break-off project, the first being guitarist Scott Loose’s Stellar Death project.  Day of Departure is the brainchild of Brave guitarist Matt Kozar and the first single release, “And We Prepare For Our End” features Brave vocalist/keyboardist Michelle Schrotz along with other fellow Brave members drummer Trevor Schrotz, bassist Ben Kelly, and guitarist Scott Loose. “And We Prepare For Our End” is a departure (pun intended) from the sound of Brave which is a cool thing to hear.  While the song maintains a progressive feel to it, I also hear a song that is infused with elements of goth, tribal rhythms, and even a bit of early “Comalies” era Lacuna Coil influence.” –  Southeast of Heaven

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Album Title: Day of Departure
Release Date: March 25, 2022
Label: Bravemusic
Distribution: Bravemusic

Track Listing:
1. …And We Prepare for Our End (8:00)
2. The Edge of Annihilation (6:13)
3. The Light In Our Eye Grows Dim (3:01)
4. Pierce the Sky (Conflict) (4:32)
5. Ex Machina (5:46)
6. Life Prevails (6:13)
7. The Future Has No Form (3:24)
8. Living Matter (7:34)
9. Awaken To The Beyond (5:50)
10. The Beyond (2:17)
Album Length: 52:50

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by: Day of Departure
• All songs written by: Day of Departure (all songs copyright Bravemusic 2022)
• Produced by: Day of Departure
• Mixed by: Trevor Schrotz at the Red Room Studios in Virginia, USA
• Mastered by: Greg Schwan at the Oak Lodge in New York, USA
• Album Artwork by: Photo by MontyLov on Unspalsh.com

Album and Live Band Line Up:
Matt Kozar – Guitar and Keys
Michelle Schrotz – Vocals and Keys
Trevor Schrotz – Drums
Ben Kelly – Bass
Scott Loose – Guitar and Keys

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

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:
1. Day of Departure is heavily influenced by a number of different sci-fi stories and comics. Matt Kozar is an avid reader of all comics and looks forward to listeners funding subtle nods to comics throughout the lyrics.

2. The members of Day of Departure produced and recorded the album over the last 2 years completely remotely.  We hope to gather and rehearse these songs sometime in 2022, but have never played these songs as a group, which is a first for all of the projects that we collaborated on.

L-R – Ben Kelly (Bass), Scott Loose (Guitars, Keys), Michelle Schrotz (Vocals, Keys), Trevor Schrotz (Drums), Matt Kozar (Guitars, Keys)
Photo credit – David Wright

Day of Departure combines elements of post-rock, ambient, progressive rock, and hard rock to arrive at a unique sonic landscape that seeks to balance the varied influences and inspirations from its creators.

Born out of a desire to explore a different musical style that merges their influences with a well-woven narrative, Washington D.C.’s Day of Departure created a story that begins with the destruction of our planet, and then the need to evolve and find a new path forward for survival. They are heavily influenced by a number of different sci-fi stories and comics that echo throughout their music.

Their debut self-titled album is set to be released on March 25, 2022. It was produced and recorded entirely remotely over two years with none of the members working together in person. They currently do not have any plans to play live at the moment, but are looking forward to thinking about how to bring to life the music and vibe that was created on the record.

While writing their debut, several songs didn’t make the cut, yet Day of Departure are already thinking about the next chapter to explore, with some of those songs/ideas being the inspiration or perhaps even the focus of forthcoming music.

0 EPK – Triskelyon – Self-Titled (EP) (2022)

  • January 18, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Triskelyon

EPK – Triskelyon – Self-Titled (EP) (2022)

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

For fans of Anthrax, Death Angel, Metal Church, Megadeth, Testament

EP Title: Self-Titled
Label: Self-Release
Release Date: January 25, 2022

Triskelyon.bandcamp.com | Facebook.com/Triskelyon-109813604928220 | YouTube

“The three songs have the rage, heaviness and some rawness you expect from thrash, but also the melody and speed you’ll find in the more aggressive and harsher forms of power metal (no flowery stuff here, people). Pete’s vocals definitely are more of the aggressive heavy/power metal variety while Marlee shakes the hell out of the speakers with a more aggressive and harsher, yet high-pitched style.” – The Metal Crypt (2022 – Self-Titled EP)

“This is the kind of band that really plays that pure, raw, seething thrash metal that I love.” – Wings of Death (2022 – Self-Titled EP)

“Classic heavy thrash, catchy quick stuff with big screamy vox! Great stuff!” – WORT 89.9FM – Mosh Pit Radio – Madison, WI (2022 – Self-Titled EP)

“The EP thunders around the listener’s ears with a massive, powerful sound and gripping guitar riffs, but is also arranged with great attention to detail. Geoff Waye also acts as lead guitarist in the melodic as well as brute playing with pinpoint accuracy… Thrash fans who expect more than just head banging should remember the name TRISKELYON.” – PowerMetal.de (2022 – Self-Titled EP)

“What does Melodic Thrash sound like? Well in the eyes (and ears) of Geoff Waye it sounds like Thrash with influences of Traditional Metal, so you have plenty of heavy chugging Thrash riffs, separated by Traditional Metal bridges and big choruses. Opening cut “Hunger” sounds like a classic Anthrax cut from the “Spreading The Disease” era, with Iron Maiden influences all over it and Pete Healey’s higher pitched vocals only enhancing that nostalgic feel.” – Metal Noise (2022 – Self-Titled EP)

Triskelyon is a Canadian melodic thrash metal project created by Geoff Waye, guitarist for Artach and Category VI. Conceived in late 2021 as a studio-only project, the first self-titled EP is set for release on January 25, 2022.  

Triskelyon features the contributions of various vocalists. The vocalists and musicians that featured on the EP include vocalist Pete Healey and Marlee Ryley (Hyperia), along with drum programming by Raul Marques (Burning Torment).

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

The EP as a whole explained by Geoff Waye.

The music is straight to the point. No dicking around with breakdowns, no long drawn out solos, just get straight into it and let the headbanging commence. The EP’s tracks are therefore not long but get right into it. I tried to make the chorus more antithetic and memorable. Melodic solos. Speed. Etc.

Track by track explained by Geoff Waye.

1. Hunger: This EP opener is a statement. It starts with no buildup just straight into the fun speedy thrash riffage. This was also the first song I wrote for this project. After I had it written and got the drums done, I knew I was onto something. The song is about a hunger for change in the world. I am not a fan of the way the world is heading in terms of politics, divisions, and how stuck in their ways and traditions people are.  The chorus line “It’s the time for the fearless to rise. A hunger for change in their eyes.” gets to the theme and heart of the song’s idea.

2. Find A Way: This is the more melodic of the three and has a bit more groove. It’s about my life in a way with lyrics about feeling somewhat isolated from the pandemic….even tho the song itself is not at all about the pandemic. It’s just a song about feelings and finding my way through it all.

3. Odyssey (Blessed by Steel): This is the fastest and most intense song on the EP. It’s speedy and full-throttle thrash. The lyrics are again personal and about my musical life journey as told through using song references which an astute listener might pick up on a few of them.

Story Angles / Fun Facts:

1.  Triskelyon is a deliberate misspelling of the word “triskelion”. It is defined as follows: “A triskelion or triskeles is an ancient motif consisting of a triple spiral exhibiting rotational symmetry. … The actual triskeles symbol of three human legs is found especially in Greek antiquity, beginning in archaic pottery, and continued in the coinage of the classical period.”  It has different meanings, but the one that spoke to me is the concept of forwarding movement and not standing still….some of the ideas that found their way into the lyrics for “Find a Way”.

2. Pete and Geoff were in a Newfoundland based band together in the early 2000s called Oberon.

3. Triskelyon is a solo project yet the door is open to collaboration with others.

[Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics]

EP Title: Self-Titled
Label: Self-Release
Release Date: January 25, 2022

Track Listing:
1. Hunger (2:58)
2. Find A Way (4:03)
3. Odyssey (Blessed by Steel) (3:32)
EP Length: 10:34

EP Credits:
• Performance credits:
Geoff Waye – All Guitars and bass
Pete Healey – vocals (track 1, 2)
Marlee Ryley – vocals (track 3)
Raul Marques – drum programming
• All songs written by: Geoff Waye
• Produced by: Geoff Waye and Michael Small
• Mixed by: Michael Small
• Mastered by: Michael Small
• Album Artwork by: Geoff Waye
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

EP Band Line Up:
Geoff Waye – All Guitars and bass
Pete Healey – vocals
Marlee Ryley – vocals
Raul Marques – drum programming

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