Category: EPKs

0 EPK – Johnny Nocash and The Celtic Outlaws – Burned Alive (single) (2020)

October 2, 2020
by Asher
· EPKs · Johnny Nocash and The Celtic Outlaws

EPK – Johnny Nocash and The Celtic Outlaws – Burned Alive (2020)

Single Title: Burned Alive
Release Date: October 27, 2020
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: DistroKid

Johnnynocash.com | Facebook.com/johnnynocashoutlaws | YouTube.com | Instagram.com/johnnynocashofficial

Johnnynocash.bandcamp.com | Spotify | Apple Music

“Are you looking for music to spice up your drinking nights? Well look no further than Toronto’s Johnny Nocash and the Celtic Outlaws.” – Metal Injection

“There is a songwriting style to the band, one they seem to have mastered, with highs and lows, and plenty of contrast. Recorded at Helm Studio by David Partridge, and having listened to the album on my phone, on good speakers, and on headphones, the production sounds great, crisp and bold. The songwriting is strong enough, however, in conjunction with the excellent production sound, this album is an easy sell.” – Metal Nation (2019 – To The Gallows (EP))

“Johnny Nocash and The Celtic Outlaws’ new self-titled release is a gritty rockers dream and a new country fans nightmare.” – Five Magics Music

“Johnny NoCash & The Celtic Outlaws have made themselves into a most polished, authentic down and dirty rock band I am aware of in GTA. This band that holds onto there punk and metal roots at the same time creating bleeding-edge rock n roll. Going so far as to create their own genre calling it “Celtic Death Country“. Now with back-to-back songs with very strong video releases this band is very, very ready for export globally.” – See Rock Live

Single Title: Burned Alive
Release Date: October 27, 2020
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: DistroKid

Track Listing:
Burned Alive (3:22)

Single Credits:
• All songs performed by: Johnny Nocash and the Celtic Outlaws
• All songs written by: Johnny Nocash and the Celtic Outlaws
• Produced by: Alex Holycross
• Mixed by: Lee Hoffman
• Mastered by: Lee Hoffman
• Album Artwork by: Mirko Kranitzer
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Band Line Up:
Johnny Nocash – Vocals/ Guitar
Memphis Raines – Lead Guitar
LC J – Bass
Cory Hofing – Drums

L-R – Memphis Raines – Lead Guitar I Johnny Nocash – Vocals/ Guitar I Cory Hofing – Drums I LC Jay – Bass Photo credit: Dan Clement

“From the North, we come to RAID”

Celtic Death Country pioneers Johnny Nocash and The Celtic Outlaws are a whiskey fuelled, smoked out Armageddon of chaos. This is the dark reinvention of country we’ve been waiting for.

——————————

Johnny Nocash struggled as a one-man act playing local dive bars for years in the west end of Toronto in the late 2000s. The songs were rough, honest, and personal and they connected with the people he played for. After years of playing solo and being recognized as a one-man powerhouse, he expanded the sound and brand to a full band with The Celtic Outlaws. Adding thick rhythmic sections with soaring Celtic/ country leads all supported by Johnny’s unforgettable and truly unique voice they created a sound that can only be described as Celtic Death Country.

2019 saw their latest and most complex EP “To The Gallows”, produced and recorded at Clean as Dirt Studios in Michigan. They toured for the first set of international shows in southern Germany, played sold-out shows with The Lazy’s and Days n Daze and won the Toronto International Short Film Festival for the best music video “SOUTHBOUND”.

Discography
2019 – To The Gallows (EP)
2018 – Self Titled (EP)

Artist Endorsements:
Los Cabos Drumstick
Mapex Drums

Shared Stage with:
The Lazys, DaysNDayz, Beyond Creation, The Native Howl, The Anti-Queens

0 EPK – Ysgaroth – Storm Over a Black Sea (2020)

September 29, 2020
by Asher
· EPKs · Ysgaroth

EPK – Ysgaroth – Storm Over a Black Sea (2020)

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

For fans of Skeletonwitch, Enslaved, Wolves in the Throne Room, Death, Morbid Angel

Album Title: Storm Over a Black Sea
Release Date: November 13th, 2020
Label: Self-Release

Ysgaroth.com (coming soon) | Facebook.com/Ysgaroth | Twitter.com/ysgaroth | Instagram.com/ysgarothofficial | YouTube

“Simply put, the album is an enormous surprise, an unexpected gem that arrives without much advance fanfare. It is, after all, this Vancouver trio’s debut album. But they’re not taking tentative steps here. The songs are remarkably ambitious in their construction and remarkably demanding in their execution. Fortunately, the instrumental skill displayed here is at a very high level, and the songcraft, while elaborately multi-faceted and wide-ranging in its stylistic scope, is thrilling to behold.” – No Clean Singing

“Songs like “Forward Unto Death” and the colossal 17-minute closer “Deluge” perfectly highlights what this band can do, spinning out intricate and aggressive tracks with killer riffs, pummeling drums, complex and strange song structures, and absolutely gorgeous lead work, all contained within a raw, savage production job which sports a guitar tone that cuts like a jagged stone dagger… a promising young band…” – The Metal Crypt

“This is sophisticated extreme metal that demands repeat listening.” – Scream Blast Repeat

“If you’re looking for a unique black metal record to carry with you into this winter season, look no further! Fantastic stuff, really.8/10” – Noob Heavy

“The sound of the band has it all: black metal, death metal of the ’80s, thrash of the ’90s, sludge with post-metal, and the final signature of progressive metal. This is a very promising new band… Listen to “Storm Over A Black Sea”, it’s worth it.” – Greek Rebels

“Unexpected melodic harmonies are accompanied by grating vocals of the harshest on the album as a whole; Steigler sounds like his voice could give out at any point before a step up into a fiery blend of Black Metal rhythms with Death Metal leads sweeps everything aside like the loser of a game of chess ripping the board from the table and throwing all the pieces into to the sky with furious intent. That rise and fall pattern between the two styles keeps you on your toes, never quite sure when it’s going to switch personality and when it does it has the grace and speed of an assassin. How on Earth Ysgaroth follow this up is beyond us… [8/10]” – Metal Noise

“This is an impressive debut, with great songs” – UK Thrashers

“The real nugget of play and exploration in this album is the 17 + minute final track, ‘Deluge’. it opens with powerful slow sludgy guitar distortion, but then slows down to a very interesting drum and bass riff session with softer blackened vocals over – the guitar spends that time in off the front. But then, the forces of power and direction come together and the energy picks up again. I would have to say that this track is a fabulous clincher for the album, but also just as a track, it is super. If you are down with noisy bands, and are okay with a few of the ‘black metal’ rules being broken, Ysgaroth’s, “Storm Over A Black Sea”, is the album to check out.
4.5 / 5” – Brutalism

“The music is melodic extremity, with a certain black metal feel in places and with some prog tendencies, but still moshing and headbanging metal. The vocals are shrieked a lot, although there is some growling in there, too. While the vocals scream black metal, the music points to some surprising melodic places. Ysgaroth is brutal and melodic and they plan to have their cake and eat it, too. Is it possible?! Ysgaroth is going to find out! Would you like to come along? It will be a fun ride through the minds of these Canadian brutes. Just when you think you got them figured out, they will surprise you with 17 minutes of the song “Deluge.” It’s like they decided to let us see that they love Scandinavian extreme metal, but maybe when you’re a Canadian prog band you can’t really avoid having some Rush sneak into your subconscious.” – Metal Bulletin Zine

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Album Title: Storm Over a Black Sea
Release Date: November 13th, 2020
Label: Self-Release

Track Listing:
1. Rain (1:54)
2. Nam Gloria Satanas (feat. Jessie Grace of KOSM) (7:06)
3. Sacred (5:31)
4. Altar of Scars 11:48)
5. Forward Unto Death (feat. Jessie Grace of KOSM) (5:19)
6. Deluge (feat. Erik Leonhard of KOSM) 17:24
Album Length: 49:05

L-R: Shawn Hillman (Bass) | Steve Cuddington (Drums) | Kurt Steigleder (Guitar, Vocals) – Photo Credit: Jade Weekes

Ysgaroth is a progressive extreme metal band conjured in Vancouver, Canada that seamlessly blends elements of various metal subgenres into a vicious hybrid.

Initially, Ysgaroth started as Kurt Steigler’s black metal studio project, a non-serious musical outlet, but over time he grew attached to the songs and wanted to take them live.

With the desire to hit the stage, Steigler (guitar/vocals) was joined by Steve Cuddington (drums) and Shawn Hillman (bass) With these additions, the songs got more structurally ambitious, a sludge influence began to creep into the band. Cuddington brings an absolutely crushing, hardcore-influenced drumming style that gave the songs a new vitality, and Hillman’s exceptionally musical bass playing served as the perfect bridge between the crushing drums and razor-sharp guitars. Ultimately, the sound of the band became a mix of its black metal roots, classic 80’s death metal, 90’s thrash, and sludge with the long compositions of post-metal and the shifting, churning time signatures of progressive metal. Steigler is the main songwriter, but overall the process is hugely democratic.

The debut album from the band “Storm Over a Black Sea” will be unearthed on November 13th, 2020, and considering the growing amount of music they have been writing – fans can expect a lot more from Ysgaroth.

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by: Steve Cuddington, Shawn Hillman, Kurt Steigleder
• All songs written by: Ysgaroth
• Produced by: Ysgaroth & Michael Krauschaar
• Mixed by: Michael Krauschaar
• Mastered by: Michael Krauschaar
• Album Artwork by: Braden Farr
• Music is Canadian Content (MAPL)

Album Band Line Up:
Steve Cuddington – Drums
Shawn Hillman – Bass
Kurt Steigler – Guitar and Vocals
Jessie Grace – Vocals on Nam Gloria Satanas and Forward Unto Death
Erik Leonhard – First guitar solo in Deluge

Live Band Line Up:
Steve Cuddington – Drums
Shawn Hillman – Bass
Kurt Steigler – Guitar and Vocals

Discography:
2020 – Storm Over a Black Sea

Shared Stage with:
Chaos Century, Wraiths, Rejected Sanity, SVNEATR, Death Machine, Hexripper, Exterminatus, Illyrian, BornBroken, Suicide Forest, Ozawar, Arrow in the Quiver, Param-Nesia, Kayas, Demon Cleaver, Tribunal, Basic Instinct

0 EPK – Arcana – Letters From A Lost Soul – Act I: The World One Forms (EP) (2020)

September 26, 2020
by Asher
· Arcana · EPKs

EPK – Arcana – Letters From A Lost Soul – Act I: The World One Forms (EP) (2020)

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

For fans Rush, Caligula’s Horse, Leprous, Coheed and Cambria, Porcupine Tree

EP Title: Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms
Release Date: November 6th, 2020
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: DistroKid

Thearcanacollective.com | Instagram.com/arcanaband_official | Facebook.com/arcanabandofficial | YouTube

Arcanacollective.bandcamp.com

“The four-song collection is a beautiful conglomeration of progressive rock, pop hooks, and operatic vocals and soundscapes.” – V13

“ARCANA brings you a myriad of sounds from battering Prog Rock to delicate Pop hooks, delivering you experiences that always inspire.” – The Metal Temple

“The song’s musical arrangement is a heavy, unique work that boasts influences from the likes of fellow prog rock acts Haken, Rush, and Porcupine Tree.” – Phil’s Picks

“Arcana unveils with this “Letters From A Lost Soul” an interesting first EP showing a real potential” – Music Waves

[Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics]

EP Title: Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms
Release Date: November 6th, 2020
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: DistroKid

Track Listing:
1. Letters From A Lost Soul (0:53)
2. Wings (7:11)
3. Tailwind (3:55)
4. Octosun/Wings (Reprised) (9:54)
EP Length: 21:55

Rogan McAndrews (Composer, Co-producer, Guitar, Bass, Vocals) | Photo Credit: Rogan McAndrews

Arcana brings you a myriad of sounds from battering prog rock to delicate pop hooks, delivering you experiences that always inspire. With a narrative spanning across multiple albums, Arcana blends sci-fi, mythology, and a study of human action in the face of adversity.

Born from the mind of Calgary-based musician Rogan McAndrews, Arcana follows the story of a character named Damian as he attempts to mend his life and relationship with his wife Hope and daughter Cassidy in the wake of tragedy.

Beginning with the upcoming debut EP “Letters From A Lost Soul – Act I: The World One Forms”, is a concept record that explores a love story expressed through letters from Damian to his wife and child, but also give a glimpse into his anxieties and nightmares.

Damian and Nightmare are played by Rogan McAndrews.
Hope is played by Anna Draper.
News Anchors Dave and Alice are played by Chelsea Finnigan and Griffin.

“Letters From A Lost Soul – Act I: The World One Forms” is due out November 6th, 2020.

EP Credits:
• All songs performed by: Rogan McAndrews (guitar, bass, vocals), Deyson Thiara (drums), & Anna Draper (vocals)
• All songs written by: Rogan McAndrews
• Produced by: Rogan McAndrews & Deyson Thiara
• Mixed by: Deyson Thiara
• Mastered by: Deyson Thiara
• Album Artwork by: Kate Depatie, Rogan McAndrews
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

EP Band Line Up:
Rogan McAndrews – Guitar, Bass, Vocals (Damian), Synths.
Anna Draper – Vocals (Hope)
Deyson Thiara – Drums

0 EPK – Lyonen – This is Lyonen (2020)

September 24, 2020
by Asher
· EPKs · Lyonen

EPK – Lyonen – This is Lyonen (2020)

For fans of Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Metallica, Stratovarius, Helloween, Avenged Sevenfold

Album Title: This is Lyonen
Release Date: August 13, 2020
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: CD Baby

Lyonen.com | Facebook.com/lyonenofficial | YouTube | Instagram.com/lyonenofficial

Amazon | Apple Music | Spotify

Lyonen delivers his newest captivating heavy metal/rock album “This is Lyonen.” The eleven-track release contains every element to get the listeners uplifted and crazy. Through this release, Tato Rivas delivers pure raw talent that will have listeners hooked and wanting more. The crunching riffs, atmospheric drumlines, and energy-filed vocals in “Lyonen” will deliver a high dose of energy. Tato Rivas’ talent is elegantly spelled out throughout the entire album. From the contrasting lyrics of “No Borders” to the empowering sound “Angels of Freedom,” Lyonen delivers power combined with lyrical depth. Moreover, the artist recalls a nostalgic metal sound while adding a modern rock touch. The album was produced during the quarantine time of 2020 in his home studio in Silver Spring, Maryland, United States. Through online communication with other very talented musicians from United Kingdom, Germany and United States, Lyonen put this stellar album together. Make sure you check out this record from the rising artist as he is set to carve a unique unparalleled sound that is completely his own. It’s a must-add to any playlist as it will infuse energy into you!

Tato Rivas – Guitarist and Producer

Photo Credit: Barbara Gomez

Music is energy – Luis Rivas said so. Music composer and Creator of the band “Lyonen,” Luis Rivas – nicknamed Tato Rivas – spent a significant part of his life devoted to music production in the genres of Metal and Rock. When it comes to the genre of metal, music requires a whole new level of involvement. “I started playing in 1995, and I have not stopped since,” Tato said.

Tato Rivas was born in Caracas, capital of Venezuela, spent his childhood listening to popular metal bands, and moved to Maryland, United States in 2016 for professional reasons and now he is getting ready to fulfill his dreams in the music industry and build his name. It has been a lifelong goal of him to find opportunities in music career – therefore, his unstoppable passion is getting closer to that moment.

Luis graduated in Audio Engineering in 2003 with four years of Study of Music, including Classical Guitar. With currently working as a Multimedia Producer, Luis has additional insight into the world of music videos and photography – which landed him the Promax BDA Award doing Promotion Audio Mixing for a TV Station and other awards as Director of a Documentary short film.

In 2017, Luis started his one-person project like a metal band named Lyonen, which produces music in the forms of Heavy Metal, Power Metal, and Rock. His profound influence in metal icons like Iron Maiden, Metallica, Helloween, Joe Satriani, Stratovarius, and much more motivated him to hold his position gracefully as a Guitarist, Music Producer, Composer, and Audio Engineer for his band Lyonen.

So far, Tato has been passionate about Heavy Metal, but he aims to produce music in other genres, such as Pop, Classical, and more. Tato Rivas – under the name of Lyonen – is all set for releasing his much-anticipated Debut Album named “This is Lyonen,” which is scheduled to release on 13th August 2020 on all mainstream music platforms like Spotify, ITunes, Youtube Music, Deezer, and many more.

Discography:
2020 – This is Lyonen

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Album Title: This is Lyonen
Release Date: August 13, 2020
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: CD Baby

Track Listing:
1. Revelation (4:39)
2. Lyonen (4:54)
3. No Borders (4:52)
4. Nehme die Sünde (3:23)
5. I Am Not Wild (4:43)
6. Angels of Freedom (5:59)
7. Dancing Free (5:40)
8. Hard To Destroy (4:13)
9. Breaking The Silence (4:29)
10. 2 Hours to Go (3:20)
11. Outro (1:35)
Album Length: 47:54

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by:
Tato Rivas, Guitars, Bass Guitar, Keys and Synths, Drums Programming.
Jose Vegas: Bass guitar on No Borders
Javi One: Drums on 2 Hours to Go
Vocals: Craig Cairns
• All songs written by: Tato Rivas
• Produced by: Tato Rivas
• Mixed by: Tato Rivas
• Mastered by: Tato Rivas
• Album Artwork by: Vinnie Hummel
• Member of BMI

Album Band Line Up:
Tato Rivas, Guitars, Bass, Keys, and Drums.
Special Guest: Craig Cairns – Vocals

0 EPK – Screams of Syrens – Mr. Nobody (single) (2020)

September 22, 2020
by Asher
· EPKs · Screams of Syrens

EPK – Screams of Syrens – Mr. Nobody (single) (2020)

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

Single Title: Mr. Nobody
Release Date: November 20, 2020
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Distrokid, SongTradr, OneRPM

For fans of Ice Nine Kills, Terrasect, Animals as Leaders, Killswitch Engage

Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Instagram

iTunes | Amazon | Spotify

“What you need to know about California melodic metalcore band Screams Of Syrens is this. They take a standard melodic metalcore foundation, inject huge choruses into it, and add on a layer of progressive influence that makes the band stand out fairly well. The band also has a theatrical side and a flair for the dramatic…” – The New Fury

“For anybody who enjoys their metalcore with a pinch of theatrics, a heavy dose of electronics and an abundance of shreddage (think Ice Nine Kills meets The Browning), today’s your lucky day as The Noise is premiering the lead single from Pomona, CA outfit Screams of Syrens.” – The Noise on The Bright Beyond

“The song’s constant change in grooves keeps the progressions interesting, with cataclysmic syncopation keep the rhythm structure in a tight formation. The vocals are clean in the chorus — almost operatic — with the verses being fueled by visceral screams.” – New Noise on A New Era

L-R – Issac Waters (Bass), Christian Paz (Drums), Trevor Laake (Vocals), Donald Bolden (Guitar), Alex Llanos (Guitar)

Photo Credit – Amber Paredes

Screams of Syrens announce their new single “Mr. Nobody” coming out in video form this October. The heavy, theatrical rollercoaster of death has been evolving over the years into something the band is very proud of, they expect their fans to be shocked and surprised with what they have been working on. Aiming to bring listeners out of reality and into a story, this is not the band that writes about relationships and current events. This is an intense movie-like experience through music with a horror theme, playing to the interest of the musicians that are pervasive in all their new singles. The band comments on the track:

“With Mr. Nobody, we decided to really dive into the insanity that goes on inside a killer’s mind. This song is structured to feel chaotic and relentless, while still keeping the theatrical element of our songwriting intact. We also wanted to bring back some of our heavy roots, which we feel a lot of our fans will love!”

The cohesiveness of a band that has been playing together for ten years really shines through in Scream of Syrens’ music and “Mr. Nobody” is no exception. The video for the track is just as cinematic as the music behind it.

In the five years since their conception, Screams of Syrens has released an EP, a full length, a handful of singles, and performed at festivals across the American west coast. The band alludes to more music in the works, so keep your ears to the ground for more graphic tales and riveting storytelling.

Screams of Syrens is perfect for those who enjoy ripping metalcore with a dash of theatrics especially fans of Ice Nine Kills, Terrasect, and Animals as Leaders.

Shared Stage with:
The Word Alive, Vanna, Attila, Oceans Ate Alaska, As Blood Runs Black, Palisades, Secrets, The Color Morale, Slaves, Rest/Repose, etc.

Discography:
2020 – Mr. Nobody – Single
2020 – The Ripper – Single
2019 – Reflections – LP
2018 – House of Mirrors – Single – Music Video
2018 – The Bright Beyond – Single – Music Video
2018 – A New Era – Single – Lyric Video
2015 – Chapter 1: Caravel – EP

[Download Single Cover | Download Single Lyrics]

Single Title: Mr. Nobody
Release Date: November 20, 2020
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Distrokid, SongTradr, OneRPM

Track Listing:
1. Mr Nobody

Single Credits:
• All songs performed by: Screams of Syrens
• All songs written by: Screams of Syrens
• Produced by: Screams of Syrens
• Mixed by: Trevor Laake
• Mastered by: Matt Dalton
• Album Artwork by: Todd Koval
• Member of BMI

Single and Live Band Line Up:
Trevor Laake – Vocals
Alex Llanos – Guitar/vocals
Donald Bolden – Guitar/vocals
Isaac Waters – Bass/vocals
Christian Paz – Drums

0 EPK – Grimmreaper – The Tragedy of Being (2021)

September 22, 2020
by Asher
· EPKs · Grimmreaper

EPK – Grimmreaper – The Tragedy of Being (2021)

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

For fans of Trivium, In Flames, Meshuggah, Dragonforce, Devin Townsend

Facebook.com/GrimmreaperOfficial | Instagram.com/grimmreaperusa

Bandcamp | Spotify

Album Title: The Tragedy of Being
Release Date: March 30, 2021
Label: Logan Grimm Records
Distribution: Distrokid

“It’s been a long process to get this solo record ready, but I couldn’t be more excited to finally put it out there. This is Grimmreaper’s debut album, The Tragedy of Being. So far, Grimmreaper has been described as mixing technical styles like those of Dragonforce and Meshuggah with mainstream styles like Bullet For My Valentine and Five Finger Death Punch.

I’m trying to give fans an experience that goes to different places in metal, from fast and hard, to slow and groovy, and even a Babymetal cover song. It’s a dark record with many twists and turns, but never boring. The lyrics come from ideas of old stories and archetypes, but the music isn’t as abstract. Some songs are commercial sounding in their structure, but some are longer with abrupt changes and weird patterns. The album is a journey through different tastes of metal, and while it’s meant to be enjoyed from start to finish, each song stands strong on its own.” – Grimmreaper – Logan Grimm

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

“Talk about ambition. Grimmreaper, the brainchild of Logan Grimm, is a modern metal project where Logan plays all the instruments. Merging modern metal influences like Bullet For My Valentine with more technical ones like Meshuggah, the project is as much a multimedia one as it is a musical one.” – New Fury Media

“If you like pounding rhythms and impressive lead playing this power metal track (North Star) is just for you. With emotive vocals and rampaging rhythms, this is a classic headbanger from the very first double bass drum kick. The vocals soar and take flight mirroring the lyrical content. Throw in an epic thrash metal solo and we have one of the year’s best metal tracks- and it’s only the first week of January.” – BackSeatMafia

“Grimmreaper is inspired by many different sub-genres of metal, but it is without doubt that power metal is the strongest flavour in this particular track (North Star). There’s plenty of variation of riffs involved, ranging from meaty chugs to epic melodies that soar out of the atmosphere. In fact, the riff that starts at 0:33 sounds very similar to Those Who Fight Further from the Final Fantasy 7 soundtrack, at least to start off with, And that happens to be one of my most favourite pieces of music ever, so I was smiling giddily when I heard that part.” – Abrasive Noise

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS

1. This album was recorded worldwide over 2.5 years. Two countries, several apartments, an RV, and house, but never an actual recording studio.

2. The album and single art are planetary and abstract, representing the chaotic nature of the psyche, unknowable. The album art looks like a black hole, but was originally inspired from the sky of the Soul Cairn in the Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Road of Resistance’s cover art came from the idea of a blood-red sun. In Skyrim’s Dawnguard DLC, you can shoot the sun with vampiric blood-tainted arrows to make it turn blood red. That was the founding idea for that art.

3. Grimmreaper is a constant pull between Logan and me, the two personalities that rule the band and its decisions. Logan is the manager, I’m the artist. – Grimm.

Is it pretentious to think of yourself as so deep that you need to show fans two personalities because you can’t be held to one? Yes. Also, Grimm is a blowhard. – Logan

4. All of what you hear on Grimmreaper’s debut album was recorded on one guitar, one bass, a very slow computer, and a cheap recording equipment bundle from the internet.

Super Ultra Exclusive Grimmreaper Recording Equipment Package™
Guitar: $200 Jackson JS22-7 Dinky
Bass: $300 Aria IGB-STD/5
Computer: Toshiba Satellite (not meant to record music, many technical difficulties encountered along the way)
Microphone: $300 MXL recording gear bundle from Amazon
Drums: Easy Drummer 2
Guitar Effects: Bias FX plugin

5. Grimmreaper and its debut album, The Tragedy of Being, resulted from personal events in 2017. Ultimately, however, I credit this project to Jordan Peterson and his lecture series, The Psychological Significance of the Biblical Stories, a series that was released on Youtube in 2017. Peterson is a clinical psychologist who, in the series, details the stories of the Old Testament, relating them to modern psychology, evolution, mythology, and human history. It was very painful and transformative for me to watch him talk on and on for hours, tearing down my paradigms about everything I thought I knew. I guess it hurts me so much that I had to find an outlet for the disorientation I experienced. There was no other option. My mind had been blown to the cosmos, and I was drifting. In that drifting, The Tragedy of Being was created.

Logan Grimm is an ambitious young artist seeking to take on the world, and the creator of Grimmreaper. He has developed an intense backstory for a multimedia project that explores the very human realities of tragedy and suffering, and the choices they present, from nihilism and resentment to transcendence and courage. In the process of this, he has crafted music that fuses the influences of highly technical bands like Dragonforce and Meshuggah with the work of more mainstream names such as Five Finger Death Punch and Bullet For My Valentine.

The project, which will start to see release in the early half of 2021, will center around an album entitled The Tragedy Of Being. The record explores noble and contemptible ways to respond to the conditions inherent to human consciousness. Since it is wholly a solo project, Grimm will perform on the record as each ‘band member.’ He will also represent each member in the videos released for the project, each hidden behind a black hood with a different appearance. The Tragedy Of Being will be accompanied by a documentary of the creation process featuring the twin personalities of the business-minded Logan and the poetic artist, Grimm. It will embody his sense of humor, split personas, and inspirations.

Representing himself as the embodiment of his lyrical themes, Logan Grimm has built a strong visual presence for the project. Instantly recognizable and endlessly ambitious, there are a lot of interesting twists and turns presented in the work of Grimmreaper. With a bright future painted before him featuring everything from forming a DIY label to endless touring, Logan Grimm has the ambition and the vision to match. Poised to be the next great force in metal, Grimmreaper look boldly into the future.

Discography:
2021 – The Tragedy of Being

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Album Title: The Tragedy of Being
Release Date: March 30, 2021
Label: Logan Grimm Records
Distribution: Distrokid

Track Listing:
1. Mind’s Mirrors Meshing Together (6:34)
2. North Star (6:31)
3. Prison (8:09)
4. Resent (5:40)
5. The Land I Will Show You (8:37)
6. Catastrophe of the Tragic Melancholies (4:52)
7. Road of Resistance (5:12) (Babymetal Cover)
8. Happy Times (4:48)
9. The Tragedy of Being (9:56)
Album Length: 1:00:23

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by: Logan Grimm
• All songs written by: Logan Grimm
• Produced by: Fredrik Erlingsson – Audiosphere Recordings
• Mixed by: Fredrik Erlingsson – Audiosphere Recordings
• Mastered by: Fredrik Erlingsson – Audiosphere Recordings
• Album Artwork by: Ardasen – Fiverr, single artworks by

Album Band Line Up:
Logan Grimm – Lead Vocals
Logan Grimm – Lead Guitar
Logan Grimm – Drums
Logan Grimm – Bass

Lyrical Themes by Song:

1. Mind’s Mirrors Meshing Together: The album starts with a catastrophic anomaly to the psyche. The frame of reference through which you interpret the world is shattered. The thin ice of order you stand on crashes through and you move to the underworld of chaos where nothing is certain.

2. North Star: You need to rekindle yourself to move forward in life. Aim toward the highest thing you can conceptualize. You will not get it right the first time, but you must have an aim. You may think of aiming yourself towards a guide in the sky, the north star. But you’re not smart enough to know where the north star is, so you’ll aim for the south because of your ignorance. This is still a good path moving forward because you have decided to move. Your aim will come more into focus as you move.

3. Prison: To rekindle yourself and move forward is quite hard to do, and everything can feel like a prison when your psyche is shattered from the aforementioned anomaly. To me, it feels like moving through molasses or being locked in a room unable to move. This can be oddly comforting, however, because it might feel like home to you.

4. Resent (Single 1): I believe that at some point in deciding to continue living, resentment for existence arises in you. A struggle for reason emerges, and nihilism can take over. This song is a terrible reach into how you can think when nothing matters when the world is in gray when the suffering of existence outweighs any justification or joy. It is hell.

5. The Land I Will Show You: This is an immediate counter-argument to the nihilism presented in Resent. Walk forward in a covenant with God (so to speak) and act truthfully as if Being is good. This is taken from the stories of Abraham, where Old Testament God tells Abraham to leave his land and venture to the promised land, “the land I will show you”.

6. Catastrophe of the Tragic Melancholies (Single 2): To move to the promised land is no easy task. You can’t be naive. There will be obstacles in your way and people trying to take you out at every turn. To operate within the covenantal relationship with God, you must incorporate the evil of your soul into your being. This is the terrible realization of all you could be capable of. A descent into the underworld to confront your own self. This is a naked look into the worst parts of my soul, my shadow, the parts of my soul and fantasies that I want to pretend don’t exist. This is an attempt to make contact with my shadow, from a Jungian perspective.

7. Road of Resistance (cover song): After the trauma of contacting your shadow, you still take trembling steps forward. This is a noble and honorable action, because contact with the shadow can often make people freeze. This song sticks with the meaning of the literal translation from Japanese, the original language of the song. But, I took the opportunity to rewrite the lyrics in my own words. It was originally written by Dragonforce, and they often write about the hero’s journey, mountains, dragons, and archetypes. I paid homage to their writing style by making the song about the nobility of moving forward in life up the mountain. It also fits into the theme of the album quite nicely.

8. Happy Times: To continue moving forward, you need more defenses against nihilism and hatred of existence. You always need more. You’re never fully equipped to stand against the suffering of life.

Journey back to your childhood and regain the wonder that has since been lost. This is not naive, because having made an attempt to incorporate your shadow, you know the world isn’t like it was as a child. You know it can be terrible, and so can you. Regain the sense of grandeur, potential, and joy you had as a child to bolster yourself against the tragic conditions of life.

9. The Tragedy of Being: Finally, no matter how far you’ve come, no matter how integrated you are as a person, the tragedy of existence is still there. However transformed you are, this still weighs heavily on your soul, as it’s the only thing that’s true about life… This song is a melancholic wrap. It is an instrumental, 10 minutes close to The Tragedy of Being to symbolize that the tragic conditions of human existence never seem to end.

0 EPK – Fuck The Facts – Pleine Noirceur (2020) (Noise Salvation)

September 20, 2020
by Asher
· EPKs · Fuck The Facts

EPK – Fuck The Facts – Pleine Noirceur (2020)

Publicist – asher[@]ashermediarelations[.]com

Album Title: Pleine Noirceur
Release Date: November 20, 2020
Label: Noise Salvation

For fans of Brutal Truth, Napalm Death, Converge, Cephalic Carnage, The Dillinger Escape Plan

Fuckthefacts.com | Facebook.com/FuckTheFacts | Twitter.com/fuckthefacts | Youtube | Instagram.com/fckthefacts

Fuckthefacts.bandcamp.com | Spotify | Apple Music

Radio Charts
#6 – National Loud Chart – For the Week Ending: Tuesday, January 19, 2021 (Earshot)
#4 – National Loud Chart – For the Week Ending: Tuesday, January 12, 2021 (Earshot)
#4 – National Loud Chart – For the Week Ending: Tuesday, December 15, 2020 (Earshot)
#8 – National Loud Chart- For the Week Ending: Tuesday, December 1, 2020 (Earshot)

#4 on Top 20 Loud – November 2020 (Earshot)

#162 on Top 200 for National – November 2020 Charts (Earshot)

#3 – National Loud Chart – For the Week Ending: Tuesday, November 24, 2020 (Earshot)

#4 – National Loud Chart – For the Week Ending: Tuesday, November 17, 2020 (Earshot)
#7 – National Loud Chart – For the Week Ending: Tuesday, November 3, 2020 (Earshot)
#18 on Top 20 Loud – October 2020 (Earshot)

“The album opens with arguably the best Fuck the Facts song of all time in “Doubt, Fear, Neglect” — a song with some of the heaviest riffs ever made by the band… Fuck the Facts’s Pleine Noirceur is the most perfectly heavy record one could ask for. For a band that has been together for over 20 years, Fuck the Facts continue to make some of the most important heavy music around, and Pleine Noirceur is their finest achievement to date.” – Exclaim!

“It’s no secret I love the Canadian death/grinders in Fuck The Facts, and I couldn’t be happier to hear after 5 years of radio silence, they’re back and better than ever! Their new album, Pleine Noirceur, is set for release on November 20th via the band’s very own Noise Salvation label and today we’re premiering the title track off the release. It’s as vicious as it is warm and heartfelt, twisting and turning with new surprises while retaining the FTF brand we love over the years.” – Metal Injection

“Now for some oddly melodic aggression. At this point Fuck The Facts are known for exploring sounds and moods outside of a typical grindcore realm, and their new record is another chapter in that evolution. Pleine Noirceur is very heavy, yet it has almost a blackgaze atmosphere. It’s nonstop juxtaposition of seemingly apposing vibes that blend well together.” – Metal Injection

“Instrumentally, Pleine Noirceur is crushingly heavy but full of melody and atmosphere and unexpected twists and turns, and vocally, Melanie Mongeon is at her most emotive. These are soaring, impassioned songs that really make you feel something.” – Brooklyn Vegan

“The first thing that will strike you about Pleine Norceur is just how fucking big it sounds; the production on this record is absolutely thunderous, boasting a crisp, punchy sound and one of the most rich, full-bodied guitar tones they’ve ever had.” – The Quietus

“Pleine Noirceur is a constitution of pissed-off and fast-as-fuck grind married to ominous and ponderous sludge, met with doom and atmospheric tendencies, and where vile and abrasive tones unite with the carefully crafted and gripping melodies. While the tinctures are diverse and plenty, there are no gaps or grey areas between them. Fuck the Facts have obtained a state of existence very rarely reached on their umpteenth full-length, being more incisive and versatile than ever before. Pleine Noirceur is an exuberant and compelling effort from a band whose name seems to ring true on every single facet of humanity in the current climate. Fuck the facts, and fuck them good, for this album is exactly what we deserve amidst the darkness that’s enveloping us all globally.” – Everything Is Noise

“Pleine Noirceur continues their streak of excellence, from the brilliant “Doubt, Fear, Neglect” and the blistering “Ailleurs” through the sludgy and emotive “Everything I Love Is Ending” to the drifty dreamy “An Ending.”. Total darkness never seemed so vibrant, and this band never fails. Each listen unfurls a new twist, a new turn, a previously unheard riff, or more likely, a new context, a new color, a new angle and a riff previously unheard in exactly that proper context or color or angle.” – Your Last Rites (#9 on Top 10 2020 Albums)

“More than two decades into their career, Fuck The Facts remain one of grindcore’s most consistently strong acts. Pleine Noirceur is a fine addition to the band’s already strong discography, but also a welcome reminder of how much more can be done with grindcore than the standard 30-second blitzkrieg.” – Treble Zine

“Pleine Noirceur will undoubtedly go down in history as a masterful sonic experience that beautifully bends genre, emotion & talent to its will. This is perhaps the most complete journey into FUCK THE FACTS bastardized existence that we have heard to date.” – TRVE North Reviews

“‘Pleine Norceur‘ (meaning Total Darkness) is not a pure grindcore album, it’s so much more than that. This is the soundtrack to 2020, losing faith in humanity and in yourself. Dealing with themes like depression (‘Doubt’, ‘Fear’, ‘Neglect’), loss (‘Everything I love is Ending‘) and racism (‘_cide‘) this is an honest reflection on humanity’s worst aspects. It’s not just the lyrics that reflect on the emotions present here. While this record is grind at its core, we also find elements of melodic hardcore, death metal and mathcore all fused together in a natural blend that speeds up and slows down in such a natural way, you can’t help but be amazed at the songwriting and flow of the album.” – Grimm Gent

“Fuck the Facts’ return after five years proves some things are worth the wait as “Pleine Noirceur” is so incredibly satisfying and absolutely beats you down. The record isn’t full throttle the entire time and demonstrates more of FTF’s tool set they’ve built over the years, but when they light the powder keg, it’s as explosive as anything in their catalog. It’s great to have this band back in our periphery, and while they can’t deface us live right now, this record is enough to ensure our muscles are nice bruised in the meantime.” – Meat Mead Metal

“Pleine Noirceur is a genuine artistic achievement that is made with loving care and meticulously considered impacts, a roar to the universe in this year where we all feel like roaring sometimes. Allow Fuck The Facts to be your punishing soundtrack to 2020, because it is the most honest and cathartic music you will hear this year. And we need this.5/5” – Grater Mag

“a great album from one of the most interesting bands in grindcore (or whatever you want to call these sounds). And that, my friends, is a fact.” – Your Last Rites

“F*ck the Facts Return to Save 2020 With New Song “Pleine Noirceur”…FtF are one of the best grindcore bands in recent history ” – Metal Sucks

“The first single (Pleine Noirceur) is the raw, harsh, impassioned title track, which makes this record seem very promising.” – Brooklyn Vegan
“Sheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeit, I have been grind hammered. For a band that I didn’t think was still active, Fuck The Facts sound so vital and loose on this one. That’s why they’re here.” – Stereogum – THE BLACK MARKET – The Month In Metal – September 2020

“Le groupe de grindcore peu orthodoxe Fuck the Facts est de retour avec un album et nous présente la chanson-titre de celui-ci. Fidèle à leur habitude, le groupe nous livre une solide chanson qui pousse plus loin que ce qu’on entend généralement dans le genre. Une chose est sûre par contre, Mel Mongeon semble fâchée noire! Mais en fait, tout cela est de la douleur qu’elle livre avec aplomb. La pièce se termine dans un beau moment de percussions qui est mélodieux après la brutalité appréciable de la première partie.” – Le Canal Auditif

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Album Title: Pleine Noirceur
Release Date: November 20, 2020
Label: Noise Salvation

Track Listing:
1. Doubt, Fear Neglect (6:47)
2. Ailleurs (1:17)
3. Pleine Noirceur (5:42)
4. Aube (1:24)
5. Sans Lumiere (4:23)
6. Sans Racines (0:38)
7. Everything I Love Is Ending (4:14)
8. A Dying Light (3:41)
9. Dropping Like Flies (4:04)
10. L’abandon (2:07)
11. An Ending (3:27)
12. _cide (3:59)
Album Length: 41:46

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by: Topon Das, Mathieu Vilandre, Melanie Mongeon
• All songs written by: Topon Das, Mathieu Vilandre, Melanie Mongeon
• Produced by: Fuck The Facts
• Mixed by: Topon Das
• Mastered by: Topon Das
• Album Artwork by: Melanie Mongeon
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Album & Live Band Line Up:
Topon Das – Guitar / Bass
Melanie Mongeon – Vocals
Mathieu Vilandre – Drums / Guitar / Bass

L – R: Melanie Mongeon, Mathieu Vilandre, Topon Das

Photo by Anndy Negative

Started as a recording project in the late 90’s, it wasn’t until 2001 that the work ethic that produced a slew of underground releases drove Fuck The Facts towards full band status and into the live arena. Since then, the Ottawa-based unit has barely stopped for a breath of reconsideration, associating themselves with some of the biggest labels in underground extreme music, as well as continuing a steady output of DIY releases. Having toured hundreds of thousands of kilometers throughout North America and Europe, guitarist/founder Topon Das, vocalist Mel Mongeon and drummer Mathieu Vilandré have performed as some of the biggest festivals and sweated it out in some of the smallest basements. From 2006-2011 Fuck the Facts released three albums via underground powerhouse label, Relapse Records. Upon the completion of their contract, the quintet decided it was time to put the finishing touches on the proverbial full-circle, returning to the world of fierce independence and creative control. Their most recent releases were produced entirely at their own studio, self-released, and shows Fuck The Facts efforts as an entity continuing to grow musically and personally while developing a deeper understanding of what significance their art holds to them. As one of the longest-running and most recognizable names in Canadian Grindcore, FUCK THE FACTS continue to deliver their brand of “Bastardized Grindcore” with no end in sight.

Discography:
2015 – Desire Will Rot LP
2014 – Abandoned EP
2013 – Amer EP
2011 – Die Miserable LP
2011 – Misery EP
2010 – Unnamed EP
2008 – Disgorge Mexico LP
2006 – Stigmata High-Five LP
2005 – Legacy Of Hopelessness EP
2003 – Backstabber Etiquette LP
2001 – FourOninE EP
2001 – Discoing The Dead LP
1999 – s/t LP

Shared Stage and Toured with:
Black Dahlia Murder, Exhumed, Misery Index, Origin, Regurgitate, Today Is The Day, Unearthly Trance, Psyopus, Impaled, KEN Mode, Landmine Marathon, Antigama, Rumpelstiltskin Grinder, Neuraxis, Napalm Death, Converge, Brutal Truth, Cryptopsy, Despised Icon and countless others.

Tours and Festivals:
2019 – Smash Your Privilege Festival – Peer, Belgium
2019 – Earslaughter Festival – Montreal, Canada
2016 – Desire Will Rot European Tour
2016 – Fuck NSBM Fest – Rho, Italy
2015 – Desire Will Rot USA & Canada Tour
2015 – Berserker II Festival – Detroit, USA
2015 – Obscene Extreme America Festival – Montreal, Canada
2014 – Grind Your Mind Festival – Drummondville, Canada
2014 – Oneonta Punk Festival – Oneonta, USA
2014 – Grinding The US & Canada Tour
2014 – Mexico Tour with Landmine Marathon
2013 – New Jersey Deathfest – New Jersey, USA
2013 – Maritimes Amer Tour
2013 – European Amer Tour
2013 – Obscene Extreme Festival – Trutnov, Czech Republic
2013 – Big Day In Festival – Ithaca, USA
2013 – Badass Weekend Festival – Houston, USA
2013 – Knuck Fest – Little Rock, USA
2012 – Tour with Black Dahlia Murder & Exhumed – USA & Canada
2012 – Die Miserable In Europe Tour
2012 – Die Miserable Canada Tour
2011 – Quebec Metalfest X – Quebec City, Canada
2011 – Thrashfest V – Halifax, Canada
2011 – East Coast US Tour with Misery Index
2011 – North America Tour with KEN Mode
2011 – Scion Rock Fest – Pomona, USA
2011 – 10 Year Anniversary Tour (US & Canada)
2010 – European Tour
2010 – USA Tour
2010 – Montebello Rockfest
2010 – Maryland Deathfest
2009 – European Tour with Antigama & Dr. Doom
2009 – US Tour with Rumpelstiltskin Grinder
2009 – Trois-Rivieres Metalfest
2008 – Canadian Tour with Psyopus
2008 – Canadian Tour with Today Is The Day
2008 – Canadian Tour with Neuraxis
2008 – US Tour with Psyopus & War From A Harlots Mouth
2008 – US Tour with Origin
2008 – Canadian Tour with Impaled & Head Hits Concrete
2007 – Canadian Tour with Emeth
2007 – Maryland Deathfest
2007 – US Tour with Regurgitate
2007 – US & Canadian Headlining Tours
2006 – Relapse Contamination Tour
2006 – US Tour with Misery Index
2006 – US & Canadian Headlining Tours

0 EPK – Without Mercy – Seismic (2020)

September 16, 2020
by Asher
· EPKs · Without Mercy

EPK – Without Mercy – Seismic (2020)

Publicist – Jon Asher – asher[@]ashermdiarelations[.]com

Extreme Management Group – Mark Kloeppel – emg.markkloeppel[@]gmail.com

For fans of Cattle Decapitation, Meshuggah, Whitechapel, Pantera, Decapitated

Album Title: Seismic
Release Date: November 20, 2020
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Bloodblast Distribution

Withoutmercyband.com | Facebook.com/withoutmercyband | Instagram.com/withoutmercyband | Youtube.com/c/withoutmercyband

Sales Links: The Disaster: https://backl.ink/142875744 | Album Pre-Save: https://backl.ink/142835912 | PHYSICAL PRE-ORDER: Withoutmercyband.com/

“Overall, two elements really struck me here…one was the level of intensity, and the other the level of musicianship from the band. How they can remain unsigned is a mystery to me. They play with such a tight synergy that it’s almost like they can finish each other’s sentences before they even open their mouth.” – Metal Temple

“The thrash-stomp modes on “Worthless” ring like a head-on collision between DECAPITATED and BIOHAZARD with a dash of power metal thrown into the solo section. Alex Friis wrings his throat to huge extremes, hopefully leaving tissue intact as he hits agonizing squeals while throwing indictments against former band members — guess on your own who that might entail. DJ Temple’s guitar work on “Worthless” is terrific..” (Mouchido EP 2016) – Blabbermouth

“Vancouver’s Without Mercy is a prime example of how putting in a little bit of elbow grease can result in advantageous outcomes. The quartet play their brand of melodic, groove-laden death metal independently, but refuse to remain held back by a lack in the promotional and money machine backing departments. Over the course of a decade or so, the band has experienced the same highs and lows as most others, but their successes – which include a small handful of recordings, a bigger handful of tours, and appearances in video games – have been felt at a deeper clip because they’ve essentially managed everything themselves.” (Mouchido EP 2016) – Decibel Magazine

“In a word, the music rips. And it also thunders, and punches so fast and hard that it’s like a jackhammer-sized nail gun ramming bolts into concrete at high speed while the operator howls and shrieks for all he’s worth, segmented by a start-stop breakdown that will give your skull a good rattling and lit up by swarming guitar flurries that are as fiery as the torches in the video (Burn).” (Mouchido EP 2016) – No Clean Singing

” the band live up to their name with each song on this 4 track EP going for straight for the throat; merciless aural violence and tight, technical proficiency melded with some serious might!” (Mouchido EP 2016) – Worship Metal

“Mouichido might only be a brief four songs and nineteen minutes long but, by the end of it, the Canadian death metal wrecking machine have left you in no doubt as to what they’re about.” (Mouchido EP 2016) – PureGrainAudio

“Right from the beginning you feel the weight and the immensity of Mouichido and one listen just doesn’t do it justice. This is a re-release of previously recorded material with a new vocalist and even so, Without Mercy comes out swinging again and knocks it clear out of the park.” (Mouchido EP 2016) – Cadaver Garden

“possibly the most savage song to ascend from the depths of the west in a good long while.” – Canadian Beats

STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS ABOUT THE BAND

1. The vast majority of “Seismic”’s material was written and rewritten multiple times. Honed and tightened over tours and live performances, we were unwilling to place “filler” to enhance anything. We came at this album with the best of everything we had after our inspirations were doing the same.
2. We tracked each piece of this record in different studios around Vancouver, BC. Drums were recorded at Monarch Studios, Rhythms, and Bass we’re tracked at a hidden location, while vocals and solos were done at a 4th. This started out as a financial reason to separate the costs of recording but ended up playing a massive role in the sound and lyrical development of the record.
3. DJ runs a music academy in Abbotsford, BC where he and the drummer Matt Helie both instruct.
4. While on tour across Canada, Without Mercy played a show in Thunder Bay. The venue and promoter had technical issues that resulted in the set times running later than anticipated. The end result was being done after 3am. With a show the next night in Sudbury, Without Mercy decided to make the trek overnight at arrived at the venue, set up, and played the entire set before passing out on couches afterward.

L-R – Ryan Loewen (Bass) DJ Temple (Guitars) Alex Friis (Vocals) Matt Helie (Drums)
Photo Credit: Shimon Karmel

WITHOUT MERCY are a Vancouver based death metal act that offers hard-hitting grooves paired with strong dynamics, each song catapulting the listener through pummelling riffing and virtuosic lead work. From 2018 into 2019 the band has been hard at work recording on their new album “Seismic” that raises their already impressive discography and songwriting to a new level. To elevate the band to new heights, WITHOUT MERCY worked with highly renowned producer Dave Otero (ARCHSPIRE, CATTLE DECAPITATION, ALLEGAEON) and brings further leverage and qualification to the new album “Seismic” with guest features from iconic guitarists Chris Broderick (MEGADETH) and Jeff Loomis (Arch Enemy / NEVERMORE).

In 2016 the band released ‘Mouichido’ (meaning ‘repeat’ in Japanese, a culture embraced in the band’s ethos) The EP was critically acclaimed and also featured a guest appearance by CHIMAIRA vocalist Mark Hunter. The EP faced some significant setbacks that only served to strengthen the band, as such, guitarist DJ Temple offers “The setbacks faced by the EP is the ultimate reason to never give up. Take the aggressive nature of the songs and allow the culture of the Japanese writing to envelop you in a way that will carry you through each track. Let this EP be the story that inspires you to push through something difficult and come out the other side a stronger and more experienced person.”

Since the band’s inception, WITHOUT MERCY have developed a growing following that has been built upon relentless local performances and touring across Canada, with the band performing over 200 shows in a short period, backed by performances alongside acts such as ABORTED, DEATH ANGEL, CROWBAR, SATYRICON and many more. The band’s tenacity, growing profile, and intense musical prowess led to the attention of US agency Extreme Management Group, who established an international partnership with the band, placing WITHOUT MERCY alongside acts such as SUFFOCATION, CATTLE DECAPITATION, MISERY INDEX, and KRISIUN on the agency roster.

With a new album “Seismic” in preparation and growing interest in the band worldwide, WITHOUT MERCY are not only a band to look out for, but a band that will be contributing to the quality of modern death metal and the dynamism that the genre can offer.

“Seismic” is due out November 20th, 2020.

Discography:
2020 – Seismic – LP
2016 – Mouichido – EP
2014 – Reborn – EP
2009 – Without Mercy – LP
2007 – All Else Fails – EP

Shared Stage with:
Cattle Decapitation, Satyricon, Crowbar, Unleash the Archers, The Convalescence, Neck of the Woods, Divinity

Tours and Festivals:
2016 – Loud As Hell Fest – Drumheller, AB
2016 – Armstrong Metal Fest
2014 – Loud As Hell Fest – Drumheller, AB

Music Placements:
ROCKBAND 3

Artist Endorsements:
EMG pick-ups
Ernie Ball
Dunlop

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Album Title: Seismic
Release Date: November 20, 2020
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Bloodblast Distribution

Track Listing:
1. Thunderbird (ft. Jeff Loomis) (4:53)
2. Abysmal (5:42)
3. Left Alone (4:00)
4. Wiindigo (4:55)
5. Disinfect The Soul (ft. Chris Broderick) (7:18)
6. The Disaster (3:52)
7. Possessed (4:04)
8. I Break The Chain (4:44)
9. Uprooted (4:58)
Album Length: 44:29

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by: WITHOUT MERCY
• All songs written by: WITHOUT MERCY
• Produced by: DJ Temple
• Mixed by: Dave Otero
• Mastered by: Dave Otero
• Album Artwork by: Brayden Eshuis
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Album & Live Band Line Up:
Alex Friis – Vocals
DJ Temple – Guitars
Ryan Loewen – Bass
Matt Helie – Drums

0 EPK – King Ov Wyrms – Lord Ov Thornes (2020)

September 15, 2020
by Asher
· EPKs · King Ov Wyrms

EPK – King Ov Wyrms – Lord Ov Thornes (2020)

Album Title: Lord Ov Thornes
Release Date: November 20th, 2020
Label: Independent
Distribution: Independent

For fans of Morbid Angel, Bloodbath, Enthroned, Vader, Dark Funeral

Facebook.com/KingOvWyrms | Kingovwyrms.bandcamp.com | Spotify | Amazon

“Fury does indeed radiate from the music in violent waves. The song (Thorne Bearer) takes flight through rapid-fire drum battery and deep, dismal, heaving tremolo’d riffing that climbs and flares in manifestations of madness and misery, and squalls in blasts of vicious, mauling cruelty. Sanchez contributes his own vocals to the melee, venting horrid growls and scorching screams, which add to the music’s enraged and ferocious striking power. The song’s urgent pace never relents, but the drum patterns morph, as do the riffs, which feverishly squirm and flail as well as jolt and jar in savage, pulsing fashion. The jet-fueled energy and barbarous intensity of the music are both intense and captivating, and they’re joined in the red zone by sensations of rage and maniacal menace.” – No Clean Singing

“some beautiful, new extremity from King Ov Wyrms! Be on the lookout for their forthcoming album “Lord Ov Thornes”” – The Circle Pit

“Some pretty savage blackened death metal here. Lord ov Thornes is one of those albums that starts at full speed and doesn’t slow down much, if at all. Take 51 minutes of that and call me in the morning… If you’re at all a fan of very fast and heavy black and death metal and have been looking for a new band that does it well, King of Wyrms just delivered the goods for you.” – The Metal Crypt

“Lord Ov Thornes is a sickening effort that blazes with satanic and ritualistic power. Marvel in horror at what is crafted here, beginning with the unforgiving Threnody and the sheer brutality of The Great Sleeper. Within the first two tracks, it’s abundantly clear what we have here is something dredged from a well situated in hell.” – Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life

“Lord Ov Thornes”, the debut album by KING OV WYRMS, a worthy contender in the late year heralding the cold and darkness that is coming for us. The man has left nothing to chance, electing to fill every position himself on both sides of the studio glass, and the end result is a consistent and thought-out fifty-one minutes of solid metal.” – Metal Temple

“it deserves a place on your playlist if you like your music heavy, malevolent and underpinned by Lovecraftian themes.” – Scream Blast Repeat

“Nothing short of an aural assault of pure mayhem……” – Permafrost Today

“ing Ov Wyrms is blasting brutal death loaded with lots of black metal riffs and dual growl/shriek vocals, with a death/brutal production. Press “play” and watch this thing launch into linear relentless attacks of brutality over and over for the duration. It is almost totally nonstop blasting, energetic, superfast extremity only for the true love-it-all fanatics.” – Metal Bulletin

“King Ov Wyrms sees Sanchez present a straightforward, ruthless, rampaging festival of hard hitting, heavy riffs encased in a thick, apocalyptic atmosphere. Embodying the spirit of the classic late eighties and early nineties acts with a new, modern aggression… From the album’s cataclysmic opening with ‘Thredony’ to its closing dissonant chord found in ‘Ascendance Of A Continual One’ which echoes into the back void, this is a straightforward blackened death metal album that is out to take the scene by the throat.” – Noizze UK

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS
1. This is the first album entirely worked on exclusively by Michael Sanchez, he’s been the main songwriter for Pain Patterns and has had his contributions towards Judicator, but everything done by King Ov Wyrms so far is all done by him with no outside additions.

2. This is the 2nd full-length album Michael has produced from his home studio Odyssey Sound Studios, aside from doing some preproduction for several Tucson bands and helping record for the Judicator albums, and taking the production control for Pain Patterns.

3. King Ov Thornes has gone through at least 8 different band members before ultimately becoming a solo effort, the original idea was to feature some of Michael’s personal favorite band members from his favorite Arizona based death metal groups.

4. This is the first time Michael’s vocals have been recorded, Michael has done backing vocals for Pain Patterns for several years under the instruction of Jesse Lujan (Pain Patterns main vocalist). After recording some demo vocals for early King Ov Wyrms tracks Michael was pushed to attempt doing vocals for the whole album by Paul Black of Turned To Stone and Patrick Parris of Project Roenwolfe.

King Ov Wyrms is homage to classic death and black metal acts of the late ’80s/early ’90s with a touch of modern aggression.

Formed in Tucson, AZ. King came from the want of a more aggressive act when the main band of Michael Sanchez, Pain Patterns, started taking its roots in early 2015. He loved the music he was creating but felt that the band couldn’t fulfill his desire for a purely aggressive musical venture.

The project went through many different lineup changes only to be consistently held together by Sanchez. Having studied classical music and jazz to a degree while growing up, it gave him the tools to write comfortably on his own even in the concept of metal music. He starts out with a basic riff or a small melody line off of a piano and just adds on and on until it manifests into some sort of abomination of sound.

In early 2020 upon Sanchez’s departure from the power metal act Judicator, he decided to pull King out of hiatus but only as a solo effort to produce a full-length album. Over the span of several months, Sanchez was able to completely record all of the songs previously written for King as a full lineup, this time all the music was performed and written solely by him.

King Ov Wyrms will release its debut album “Lord Ov Thornes” on November 20th, 2020, and it will feature lyrical themes encompassing the occult, and a deep love for Lovecraftian horror.

[Download Album Cover | Download Album Lyrics]

Album Title: Lord Ov Thornes
Release Date: November 20th, 2020
Label: Independent
Distribution: Independent

Track Listing:
1. Threnody (5:48)
2. The Great Sleeper (7:31)
3. Hell’s Breathe (5:40)
4. From Below (5:51)
5. The Maggots That Crawled From The Wounds (8:57)
6. Lechery (4:24)
7. Thorne Bearer (4:18)
8. Ascendance Of A Continual One (8:53)
Album Length: 51:26

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by: Michael Sanchez
• All songs written by: Michael Sanchez
• Produced by: Michael Sanchez
• Mixed by: Michael Sanchez (Odyssey Sound Studios)
• Mastered by: Michael Sanchez (Odyssey Sound Studios)
• Album Artwork by: Thomas Carlson
• Member of ASCAP

Album Band Line Up:
Michael Sanchez – Vocals, Guitars, Bass, Drum Programming

Discography:
2020 – Lord Ov Thornes

0 EPK – Synastry – Civilization’s Coma (EP) 2020

September 15, 2020
by Asher
· EPKs · Synastry

EPK – Synastry – Civilization’s Coma (EP) 2020

EP Title: Civilization’s Coma
Release Date: November 27, 2020
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Distrokid

For fans Veil of Maya, Born of Osiris, Within The Ruins, Fear Factory, Slipknot

Instagram.com/synastry_mtl | Twitter.com/SYNASTRYMTL

Synastry.bandcamp.com

“Synastry deliver their brand of classic death metal with an industrial twist. The result is a Thrashy head-long experiment into the brutal and somewhat futuristic. Musically tight and heavy with mean riffs, Synastry try to head into a new direction for Metal.” – Sea of Tranquility

“Montreal-based metal maulers Synastry play a brutal yet groovy style of death metal with fringes of industrial that recall bands such as Fear Factory and Killing Joke with the savagery of acts like Kataklysm.” – Gears of Rock

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS
1. Guitars, drums, and bass were tracked with JF Dagenais. Vocals were tracked by Christian Donaldson. Samples were done with Kevin Jardine. The mixing was all done by JF Dagenais and the mastering was done by Jef Fortin. We chose the cream of the crop when we recorded and got this amazing result

2. The lyrical concept for this EP and the rest of the EPs we are planning on releasing are written from the viewpoint of the individual’s view on themselves in relation to society. The hope that the individual can take the responsibility to be ‘better’ for the whole while not compromising their own wants, needs, and beliefs. Inspiration is drawn from James’ life and things he has seen his friends and family live through.

3. The lyrics for these songs and all other SYNASTRY songs to be released all find themselves in a kind of disjointed tapestry that follows an ever-growing story.

4. Creating and releasing music as a band in 2020 is an interesting task, and we are looking at ways of reaching a wide audience. We want to explore all media sources, not just the streaming platforms. We are kind of goofy and I think that’s what makes people attracted to us. We kind of want to have this image that we are very serious music makers, but that we are relatable and likable and have appeal to a wide variety of people. personally I think we can reach a big audience if we integrate the social media route into our music releases (youtube channel w vlogs, short weekly or bi-weekly episodes, active on Instagram, etc) Basically metal influencers.

EP Title: Civilization’s Coma
Release Date: November 27, 2020
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Distrokid

Track Listing:
1. Civilization’s Coma (3:49)
2. Dead To Me (2:17)
3. Narcomancy (4:41)
EP Length: 10:48

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by: SYNASTRY
• All songs written by: SYNASTRY
• Produced by: JF Dagenais, Christian Donaldson, Kevin Jardine
• Mixed by: JF Dagenais
• Mastered by: Jef Fortin
• Album Artwork by: Mikio Murakami
• Members of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Album /Live Band Line Up:
Paul Iverson – Guitar
Gary Vee – Bass
Kay Kessler – Drums
James Aniston – Vocals

L-R – Kay Kessler (Drums), Gary Vee (Bass), Paul Iverson (Guitar), James Aniston (Vocals)

Photo Credit – Chris Alexis

It takes courage for a band to integrate such distinct thrash, death, and industrial influences into a catchy yet multilayered approach as do Montreal’s Synastry.

Each metal listener desires something different and thus a band exists for every taste. Inspired to a certain point by melodic, futuristic death thrash, Synastry binds to these influences a threatening mid-paced groove, atmospheric textures, and the unmistakable gruff and mature vocals of James Aniston. Flanked by guitarist Paul Iverson and bassist Gary Vee, and backed up by the thunderous Kay Kessler, Synastry is a crushing wall of well thought out and meticulously written metal. Lyrics come from Aniston’s impression of the world and his experiences in it which are layered with the collaborative music that all band members contribute to.

Started originally in the early 00s, the Montreal band took the underground scene by storm, they climbed the Myspace ranks, toured the regions, and released “Pallets Of My New World” (2006) (EP) and Blind Eyes Bleed (2008) (LP). In 2012, the band went dormant, where they remained until 2020.

The socially conscious band awoke amidst the widespread uncertainty that swept the globe, with a mission to explore humanity, the singularity, and morality. Forged in the hotbed of metal that is Montreal, they are here to raise the temperature once again with the release of their new EP “Civilization’s Coma” on November 27th.

Discography:
2020 – Civilization’s Coma (EP)
2008 – Blind Eyes Bleed (Year of the Sun Records)
2006 – Pallets of My New World (EP)

Shared Stage with:
Incantation Blessed By a Broken Heart, Rotting Christ, Panzerfaust & Protokult, The Agonist, Forever In Terror

Tours and Festivals:
2009 – Synastry Maritime Tour
2008 – Synastry maritime Tour
2008 – Blind Eyes Bleed Cross Canada Tour
2008 – Hamilton Death Fest 08 w/ Incantation – Kitchener, ON
2007 – Plagueous Black Metal Fest w/ Panzerfaust & Protokult, Toronto, ON
2007 – Moshcore – Montreal, QC
2007 – Shennan Grind Fest
2007 – Skratch Laval Rock Festival

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