Category: EPKs

0 Sven Gali – You Won’t Break Me (2019) (single)

October 30, 2019
by Asher
· EPKs · Sven Gali

Sven Gali – You Won’t Break Me (2019) (single)

For fans of Motley Crue, Guns and Roses, Skid Row (old records), Breaking Benjamin (new single)

Release Date: October 23, 2019

Label: Self Release

Concert Dates:
Nov 29 – St. Catharines, ON – Warehouse
Dec 7 – Toronto, ON – Rockpile
Dec 31 – Oshawa, ON – Oshawa Music Hall w/ I Mother Earth
April 25 – Hamilton, ON – The Studio Hamilton Place

Release Date: October 23, 2019
Label: Self Release
Distribution: CD Baby

Track Listing:
You Won’t Break Me (3:40)

Song Credits:
• You Won’t Break Me performed by:
David Wanless, Andy Frank, Shawn Minden, Sean Williamson, Dan Fila
•You Won’t Break Me written by:
Dave Wanless, Andy Frank, Shawn Minden, David Bendeth, Sean Williamson, Pattrick Mullock, Dan Fila
Produced by: David Bendeth
Mixed by: David Bendeth
Engineered by: Brian Robbins
Mastered by: Ted Jenson – Sterling Sound NYC
Members of SOCAN
MAPL / CANCON

Recording Band Line Up:
Dave Wanless (Vocals)
Andy Frank (Guitar)
Sean Minden (Bass)
Dan Fila (Drums)
Sean Williamson (Guitar)

Live Band Line Up:
Dave Wanless (Vocals)
Andy Frank (Guitar
Sean Minden (Bass)
Dan Fila (Drums)
Sean Williamson (Guitar)

Discography:
2018 – Kill The Lies (single)
1992 – Sven Gali (BMG, RCA)
1994 – In Wire (BMG, RCA)

Shared Stage w:
April Wine, Foreigner, Candlebox, Pearl Jam and Def Leppard, lots other Canadian acts

Tours and Festivals:
Toured extensively in Canada, US, and Europe in early to mid 90’s

Music Placements:
1993 – Labatt’s Genuine Draft TV commercial featuring the band (speaking and music)

Past Radio Charts:
Love Don’t Live Here Anymore was 1993’s nr 6 Cancon song of the year

Award Nominations:
1993 – Juno Award Nomination – Rock Album of The Year
1993 – Juno Award Nomination – Most Promising Group

1993 – Much Music Best Metal Video – Under The Influence – Watch here.

Formed in 1987 in Niagara Falls, Sven Gali brought the 80’s and 90’s hard rock/metal wave to Canada. They delivered their high-energy live show from coast to coast, and across the US and Europe for the next 9 years.

Twenty-five years after their debut album went Gold in Canada, in 2018 they came back with a monster new song called “Kill The Lies” recorded with legendary producer David Bendeth (Paramore, Breaking Benjamin, Bring Me The Horizon) that reached nr 3 on Top Rock Streams in Canada on the CBC.

In 2019 they released a follow-up track, “You Won’t Break Me” also produced by David Bendeth. Two more songs are being recorded before the end of 2019 for an EP release and in 2020 the band plans to put out 2 full albums of previously unreleased material from 1988 to 1996.

The band has sold out Canadian shows in 2018 and 2019 and will continue to play solo and festival dates in North America and Europe through 2020 and beyond.

The lineup includes all 3 remaining original members: Dave Wanless (vocals), Andy Frank (guitar), Shawn Minden (bass) and new members Sean Williamson (guitar) and Dan Fila (drums) from Canadian metal powerhouse and BMG label mates Varga.

Sven Gali built a name fast with their live shows; drawing growing crowds on the Canadian and US circuit while building their songwriting chops and a wild reputation. David Bendeth signed the band to BMG Music Canada in 1991 and produced the self-titled debut, released in 1992.

The album included singles and videos for “Under The Influence”, “Tie Dyed Skies”, “In My Garden”, and the ballad, “Love Don’t Live Here Anymore” (#6 CanCon song of 1993). It included a cover of Teenage Head’s “Disgusteen” featuring guest vocals by Frankie Venom. The video for “Under the Influence” won the MuchMusic Best Metal Video award in 1993. The band was nominated for Hard Rock Album of the Year and Most Promising Band at the Junos. Sven Gali went gold in Canada that year.

Sven Gali toured extensively throughout Canada and the USA, Germany, Belgium, Ireland, and the UK, headlining and on the bill with acts including April Wine, Foreigner, Candlebox, Pearl Jam and Def Leppard. They were a staple on MTV’s HeadBanger’s Ball in the UK and Europe.

Their follow up album, Inwire (1995), recorded at London Bridge Studios in Seattle, was produced by Kelly Grey (Candlebox, Brother Kane, Dokken) and featured guest musicians Christopher Thorn of Blind Melon, and Candlebox’s Kevin Martin and Scott Mercado.

Look out for Sven Gali on the road in the next few years.

0 EPK – Pyramids On Mars – Edge of The Black (2019)

October 27, 2019
by Asher
· EPKs · Pyramids On Mars

Pyramids On Mars – Edge of The Black (2019)

For fans of Joe Satriani, Metallica, Meshuggah, Iron Maiden, Rush, Yngwie J Malmsteen, Steve Vai, Megadeth, Pink Floyd, David Gilmour

Release Date: December 21, 2019

Distribution: Indiepool

Booking: Kevin.Estrella[@]hotmail.ca

Bandcamp | iTunes | Spotify

Online Instructional Guitar lessons: https://pyramidsonmarsguitarlessons.pivotshare.com/

Artist endorsements
Neck Illusions Signature Artist Kevin Estrella:
Other Neck Illusions Signature artists include: Steve Vai (Whitesnake, David Lee Roth), and Jenniffer Batten (Michael Jackson)
http://www.neckillusions.com/Artist_Page.php
http://www.neckillusions.com/KevinEstrellaBio.php
https://neckillusions.com/collections/signature-artist-series/pyramids-on-mars

“Amazingly, Pyramids On Mars is the brainchild of just one man, a certain Kevin Estrella, who handles all instruments and drum programming. He truly is a virtuoso, however, unlike most virtuosos, he can write songs and play with feeling. His peers are the likes of Joe Satriani, Stevie Vai, Ritchie Blackmoor, Jimmy Page, and Randy Rhodes. Note that I said peers; he stands well on his own feet…I truly hope as many people hear this extraordinary album as possible—it truly is brilliant and deserves the widest possible audience.” – Hellbound (2015 – Echo Cosmic Review)

“If you’re a fan of talented and virtuous guitarists, it’s worth following this man. I recommend it!” – Metal Temple (2015 – Echo Cosmic Review)

“‘Echo Cosmic’ is a great trip through the immense and ever-expanding universe of guitar music.” – Merchants of Air (2015 – Echo Cosmic Review)

“Pyramids on Mars blows borders of metal and rock away and leaves you with a satisfied feeling.” – Dutch Metal Maniac (2015 – Echo Cosmic Review)

“Kevin Estrella demonstrates that not only is he a very accomplished guitar virtuoso BUT he’s genuinely multi talented playing all the instruments himself on this record.” – All About The Rock (2015 – Echo Cosmic Review)

“PYRAMIDS ON MARS is the brainchild of Kevin Estrella. I immediately forgot this was a one-man project as soon as I started listening to new album Echo Cosmic…has a sound all its own.” – Amps And Green Screens (2015 – Echo Cosmic Review)

“Pyramids on Mars have just released Echo Cosmic, which is easily the finest instrumental album since Joe Satraini’s seminal Surfing with the Alien.” – Steve Earles, Hellbound.ca

“Kevin Estrella, much like Vai and Satriani, can make his guitar truly communicate and display emotion. That’s NOT a skill that comes with practice. There’s a real passion Kevin plays with that only comes along every so often…a real magic.” – SleepingBagStudios

“Kevin Estrella is probably the most criminally unknown guitar player on the planet.” – Dutch Metal Music

“Kevin Estrella is impressively high- quality. His lead work, however is where he shines. Smooth, melodic, adapt and soaring. Kevin Estrella is in the same ballpark as David Gilmour.” – Metallian

Album Title: Edge of The Black
Release Date: December 21, 2019
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: Indiepool

Track Listing:
1. Blood Moon 5:42
2. Nacht Waffen 6:56
3. Song of Light 5:44
4. F-22 Raptor 5:53
5. The Ambassador 4:57
6. Mercury Magnetar 4:58
7. Arcturian Rain 4:38
8. Time to Believe 4:40
9. Arioso Lullaby 4:39
10. Whale Song 4:28
Album Length: 52:40

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by: Kevin Estrella
• All songs written by: Kevin Estrella *Except for
*Arioso Lullaby (BWV156) (Written by J.S. BACH, arranged by Kevin Estrella)
*Time to Believe (written by Kevin Estrella, Craig Estrella, Matt Rock and Rick Goossen)
• Produced by: Kevin Estrella
• Mixed by: Kevin Estrella
• Mastered by: Kevin Estrella
• Album Artwork by: Nadia Wityk
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Album Band Line Up:
Kevin Estrella, ALL GUITARS, BASS, SYNTHESIZERS, DRUM PROGRAMMING

Live Band Line Up:
Kevin Estrella: Lead and Rhythm Guitar
Craig Estrella: Bass
Drums: TBA

Discography:
2019 – Edge of the Black
2015 – Echo Cosmic
2013 – Self Titled LP

Shared Stage with:
Felix Martin, Time Giants, The Bloody Five, Psycho Mad Sally, Lady in Black

Tours and Festivals:
2015 – Felix Martin North American Tour – Toronto
2014 – Spring Music Festival 2014 (Hamilton) June
2014 – Spring Music Festival 2014 (Hamilton) March
2013 – Bloor St Festival

Past Features:
– #5 – Top 30 albums: Aug 17 – Aug 23, 2015 – CKCU 89.1 FM (Ottawa) https://cod.ckcufm.com/charts/2015-34.html

– Canadian Musician Magazine Showcase
https://showcase.canadianmusician.com/pyramids-on-mars/

Bio:

PYRAMIDS ON MARS is guitarist Kevin Estrella who offers an aural palette of intense, emotional, 4-dimensional, melodic instrumental rock/ metal infusing a range of influences of Baroque classical composers J.S Bach and Antonio Vivaldi with today’s guitar virtuosos Yngwie Malmsteen and Joe Satriani.

PYRAMIDS ON MARS latest album name ‘EDGE OF THE BLACK’ set for release December 21, 2019, to follow 2015’s full length titled Echo Cosmic, and 2013 debut self-titled Pyramids on Mars.

“I honestly think “EDGE OF THE BLACK” will do for this decade what Joe Satriani’s ‘Surfing With The Alien’ did for instrumental rock back in the ’80s. It captures the same passion, energy, and melodic hooks, yet it has an updated sound. It is no secret I am heavily influenced by the band Rush. They are a part of my circuitry.

“EDGE OF THE BLACK sounds like if Joe Satriani/Yngwie Malmsteen joined Rush.” – Kevin Estrella.

Featuring ten tracks of emotionally high energy music that mostly seemed to write itself, coming literally from the Edge of the Black. The Edge of the Universe, where nothingness and everything exists. The album as a whole pays homage to some of Estrella’s biggest influences while still staying true to himself and his own creations.

“On EDGE OF THE BLACK, I wanted to put emphasis on songwriting. Telling a story. Each song tells a story it’s hard not to visualize as it takes you on a trip. The emphasis is not just on the lead guitar melody, but on the band as a whole. Harmonic variations on repeating themes are strongly utilized. Like Rhyming phrases in spoken language that allow easier accurate retelling of the original story. This idea of repeating music phrases/themes so the audience can easily recall it and ‘hum it all the way home.’

I set the intent of a desire to feel the story within the physical body of the audience.

Welcome to the EDGE OF THE BLACK.

0 EPK – Third Chamber – Harvesting Our Decay (2019) (EP)

October 6, 2019
by Asher
· EPKs · Third Chamber

Third Chamber – Harvesting Our Decay (2019) (EP)

For fans of Black Dahlia Murder, Suffocation, At the Gates, Misery Index, Napalm Death

Release Date: Nov 22, 2019
Label: Self-Release

ThirdChamber.ca | Facebook | Youtube | Instagram | Bandcamp

Show Dates:
Nov 23 – Red Deer, AB – The Krossing
Nov 29 – Medicine Hat, AB – Heartwood Cafe
Nov 30 – Edmonton, AB – The Starlite Room Temple
Dec 6 – Calgary, AB – Dickens

Album Title: Harvesting Our Decay
Release Date: Nov 22, 2019
Label: Self-Release

Track Listing:
1. Parasitic Communion (4:45)
2. Mind Rot (3:05)
3. Choke (4:07)
4. Harvesting Our Decay (4:24)
5. Terror Formed (4:28)
EP Length: 20:51

EP Credits:
• All songs performed by: Third Chamber
• All songs written by: Third Chamber
• Produced by: Garrett McElroy
• Mixed by: Garrett McElroy
• Mastered by: Deigo Fernandez
• Album Lyrics and Artwork by: Shane Hawco
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

EP and Live Band Line Up:
Dustin Hahn – Drums
Jamie McIsaac – Guitar
Jay – Guitar
Russ Gauthier – Bass
Shane Hawco – Vocals

Discography:
2019 – Harvesting Our Decay (EP)

Shared Stage with:
Stab Twist Pull, Murk, Widows Peak, Repugnant Scum

Photo Credit: Neil McElmon – ConcertSocks

SHORT BIO

Comprised of several musicians with a long history in Calgary’s metal scene (Culled, After Earth, Meddigo, False Flag, WAKE, Disciples of Power, Exit Strategy, and Razorwing), THIRD CHAMBER is cooking up a new, yet familiar death metal sound that will nourish even the pickiest of metal enthusiasts.

With death being the main ingredient in their metal melting pot, hints of grindcore and hardcore also stand out amidst flavours of politically charged lyrics. THIRD CHAMBER is not music for the soft, besides being musically ferocious, the lyrical content is a brutal reflection of the current state of the world. From negative motivations of religious organizations, the effects of social media on mental distress, the ever-growing pride of ignorance, the exploitation of our natural resources for the profit of the wealthy and the manipulation and lack of actual truth in most media consumed by the ever-growing bewildered herd.

In 2019, THIRD CHAMBER is releasing their debut five-track EP “Harvesting Our Decay”.

LONG BIO

In the cold brisk autumn of 2014, five musicians came together haphazardly from the ashes of previous projects with a small batch of material on the table. A year later, Dustin Hahn (drums), Jamie McIsaac (guitar), Jay (guitar), and Russ Gauthier (bass) had enough polished material to fill a full set but were lacking a vocalist. It wasn’t until 2017 when the perfect match was found in Shane Hawco and the lineup was finally deemed complete.

With death being the main ingredient in their metal melting pot, hints of grindcore and hardcore also stand out amidst flavours of politically charged lyrics. It starts with Jay and McIssac hammering out riffs which get stirred together and sent to Hahn who adds a heavy dose of blast beats. Gauthier and Hawco add the final garnishes and the chugging death metal feast is ready to be served violently.

THIRD CHAMBER is not music for the soft, besides being musically ferocious, the lyrical content is a brutal reflection of the current state of the world. From negative motivations of religious organizations, the effects of social media on mental distress, the ever-growing pride of ignorance, the exploitation of our natural resources for the profit of the wealthy and the manipulation and lack of actual truth in most media consumed by the ever-growing bewildered herd.

In 2019, THIRD CHAMBER is releasing their debut five-track EP “Harvesting Our Decay”.

0 EPK – Morgan Rider And The Deep Dark River – Leviathan & The Deep Dark Blue (2019)

September 30, 2019
by Asher
· EPKs · Morgan Rider and The Deep Dark River

Morgan Rider And The Deep Dark River

For fans of Woods of Ypres, Katatonia, Amorphis, Shawn James, Amigo The Devil

Release Date: November 22, 2019
Label: North Soul Records
Distribution: CD Baby

Morgan Rider and The Deep Dark River combine all the humble qualities of blues, folk and classical into a well-balanced, artfully crafted musical reflection on life, hope and old-fashioned storytelling while delivering a uniquely fresh and uplifting listening experience. Morgan Rider’s voice and guitar rise and fall in perfect synchronicity with Nathen Morrison’s stirring cello accompaniment – giving life to a sound that they lovingly describe as ‘haunting folk’.

Morganridermusic.com | Facebook | Twitter | Youtube | Instagram

“From the outset, Morgan Rider’s Deep Dark River is a pilgrimage into the unknown, the Canadian heart at the very centre of the album is one that intrigues, one that has the nostrils twitching in the wildness of the experience, but one that understands that whilst the scenery is one shrouded by the shadow of the timber wolf sniffing the air in search of fresh blood, it is the soul of the Canadian nature that makes the experience charming, beautiful and positive.” – Liverpool Vision and Sound, 2018

“An album that resonates in the part of the mind that deals with dreams, imagination and the race memory of what it was once to acknowledge the fables of our land, the legends and myths that come swarming out of the dense mist” – Liverpool Vision and Sound, 2019

“…to go from epic death metal to strumming an acoustic and singing folk/bluessongs…” – Metroland Media, 2019

“There have been heavy rains in Mumbai in the past couple of weeks. An album that I found myself listening during this time was King of the Forest, the latest release from Canadian act Deep Dark River. The gloomy weather further enhanced the album’s dark sound.” – Trendcrusher, 2019

TOUR DATES
10.13 – Pickering, ON – OpenStudio Art Cafe (Morgan solo)
10.15 – Whitby, ON – The Pearson (Morgan solo)
10.16 – Lindsay, ON – Coach & Horses (Morgan solo)
10.19 – Whitby, ON – Town Brewery (Morgan solo)
10.24 – Oshawa, ON – Cork & Bean (duo)
10.26 – Waterloo, ON – The Beat Goes On (Morgan solo)
10.20 – Gravenhurst, ON – The Oar (Morgan solo)
11.01 – Campbellford, ON – Church Key Grindhouse (Morgan solo)
11.02 – Pickering, ON – OpenStudio Art Cafe (duo)
11.03 – Peterborough, ON – The Black Horse (Morgan solo)
11.15 – Bowmanville, ON – Manantler Craft Brewing (Morgan solo)
11.16 – Huntsville, ON – Huntsville Alehouse (Morgan solo)
11.21 – Kingston, ON – Musiikki (Morgan solo)
11.22 – Lindsay, ON – Boiling Over’s (Morgan solo)
12.27 – Perth, ON – Fiddleheads (Morgan solo)
12.28 – Toronto, ON – Cherry Cola’s (LEVIATHAN ALBUM RELEASE PARTY)

Album Title: Leviathan & The Deep Dark Blue
Release Date: November 22, 2019
Label: North Soul Records
Distribution: CD Baby

Track Listing of Album:
1 – Beneath The Crushing Tides (2:12)
2 – The Immeasurable Fathoms (6:35)
3 – Dread (4:38)
4 – Ignite The Tempests (5:01)
5 – The Seafaerers (4:50)
6 – When The Waves Are Stilled (7:15)
7 – Where the Light May Never Reach (2:53)
8 – The Immeasurable Fathoms (Acoustic) (4:59)
9 – Dread (Acoustic) (4:00)
10 – Ignite The Tempests (Acoustic) (5:33)
11 – The Seafaerers (Acoustic) (5:02)
12 – When The Waves Are Stilled (Acoustic) (5:28)
Album Length: 58:31

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by: Morgan Rider and the Deep Dark River
• All songs written by: Morgan Rider
• Produced by: Morgan Rider
• Mixed by: Morgan Rider
• Mastered by: Morgan Rider
• Album Artwork by: Morgan Rider
SOCAN Music is all
Canadian Content (MAPL)

Album Band Line Up:
Morgan Rider – Vocals, Guitar, Bass, Slide Guitar, Piano, Synth, Percussion
Nathen Morrison – Cello
Ty Burt – Mandolin

Live Band Line Up: Morgan Rider – Vocals, Guitar, Percussion
Nathen Morrison – Cello
Ty Burt – Mandolin
Julian Craig – Drums
Casey Elliott – Guitar/ Bass
Sean Battams – Violin

Discography:
2019 – Morgan Rider and The Deep Dark River – Leviathan & The Deep, Dark Blue – LP (North Soul Records)
2019 – Morgan Rider and The Deep Dark River – King of the Forest – LP (North Soul Records)
2018 – Morgan Rider – Deep Dark River – Self-Titled LP

Shared stage with:
The Doozies, Vesperia, The Dead South, Novembers Doom, Panzerfaust, Eclipse Eternal, Within Nostalgia, Kittie, Empyrean Plague, Jack Pine and the Fire, Musk Ox, Cecile Monique, Johnny Nocash and the Celtic Outlaws, Within Nostalgia

Tours and Festivals:
2019 – UK Tour – England, Scotland
2019 – Keene Summer Festival – Keene, ON
2019 – Kaleidoscope Gathering Festival – Eganville, ON
2019 – Solstice Festival – Newcastle, ON
2018 – Canadian West Coast Tour – Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, BC
2018 – Solstice Festival – Newcastle, ON
2018 – Canadian East Coast Tour – PEI, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia

Music Placements: (Movies, Commercials)
2018 – Lexus Luxury Vehicles Co. – Fall Online Ad Campaign

Artist endorsements for Morgan Rider: Ibanez Guitars, Traynor Amps

L-R: Morgan Rider [Vocals, Guitar, Piano, Percussion], Nathen Morrison [Cello]

Photo Credit:

Born in 1989, singer, song-smith and multi-instrumentalist Morgan Rider had his earliest imaginings of life as a
musician while contending with an often tumultuous childhood. Overhearing his mother – who is a trained operatic
soprano – his love and understanding of music blossomed at an early age. Morgan eventually spending his
adolescent and early adult years performing in touring metal bands – appearing on tours and large festivals across
North America and Europe.

During the summer of 2017, Morgan’s adoration of folk, classical and blues music finally culminated into a project and the beginnings of a collection of songs. The name Deep Dark River had been stuck in his head for years, as a
byproduct of his writings and alluding to the very nature of his ideas as a musician and artist. As such, Deep Dark
River became the name by which he would perform beneath.

While his ideas began to take form, so did his mindset for what became the early stages of Deep Dark River. In March of 2018, the first original Deep Dark River single ‘The Golden Bough’ was released digitally worldwide. Morgan began performing live and also toured solo to the Canadian east coast to promote the single. In the summer of 2018, the debut album Deep Dark River was released and supported with a full Canadian solo tour over 5 weeks.

As 2018 neared it end, Morgan called upon his friend Nathen Morrison to contribute cello to the sounds of Deep Dark River, solidifying the project as a duo. The pair immediately began rehearsing and recording the first of a four-album quadrilogy – which Morgan had written the bulk of on his travels. The first single featuring the pair – Starfire – was released in March of 2019 along with the album “King of The Forest” released on June 21st, 2019 via North Soul Records. Not slowing down, the pair have their next album just months later “Leviathan & The Deep Dark Blue” planned for release via North Soul Records on November 22nd, 2019 with its lead single ‘The Seafaerers’.

0 EPK – Lost In Static – Feel Alive (2019) (single)

September 30, 2019
by Asher
· EPKs · Lost In Static

Lost In Static – Feel Alive (2019) (single)

For fans of Volumes, After the Burial, Veil of Maya, Born of Osiris, Periphery

Release Date: October 25, 2019

Facebook | Instagram

Single Credits:
• All songs performed by: Lost In Static
• Written by: Lance MacBain and Tyler Johansen
• Produced by: Jesse Kopala
• Mixed by: Jesse Kopala
• Mastered by:
• Album Artwork by: Tim Buel

Album and Live Band Line Up:
Tyler Johansen (Drums)
Jared Boyd (Bass)
Noureen Amin (Vocals)
Lance MacBain (Guitar)

Discography:
2019 – Feel Alive (single)
2020 – Self-Tiitled LP

Shared Stage with:
Distinguisher, No Home, Diamonds On Neptune, A Nobodies Achievement, Exits, Snakepit, Tama Hills, Gratuitous Platypus, Dead Ringer, Pridelands, Young Bloods, Iron Tusk, After The Prophet, Father Moon

L-R: Tyler Johansen (Drums), Jared Boyd (Bass), Noureen Amin (Vocals), Lance MacBain (Guitar)

Photo Credit: Joe Miles

Fresh out of Calgary, Canada comes Lost In Static. What started as a cover band called Moron Mountain many years ago has now fully blossomed into an original metal act that has been playing stages since early 2019.

Comprised of seasoned musicians Lance MacBain, Noureen Amin, Jared Boyd, Tyler Johansen the metal band has just started their musical journey fusing the djent elements of progressive metal with metalcore.

The group works together to create music that is both aggressive and fun, with MacBain generally writing the music and MacBain, Johansen and Boyd collectively writing the lyrics. Relating to their band name, the messages they send through their lyrics convey relation to the feeling of getting lost in the “static” of the world, and all the events that take place; an almost overwhelming feeling of white noise.

With an emphasis on producing a tight live show full of headbanging, energy and moshing, Lost In Static is hitting the ground running with their debut album being released soon.

0 EPK – Woodhawk – Violent Nature (2019)

September 9, 2019
by Asher
· EPKs · Woodhawk

Woodhawk – Violent Nature

For fans of Black Sabbath, The Sword, Clutch, Truckfighters, Priestess, Mastodon,
Red Fang, Thin Lizzy

Release Date: November 1, 2019
Label: Self-Released

Publicist – Jon Asher – asher(@)ashermediarelations.com

Management / Bookings –woodhawkriffs@gmail.com

“Their brand of this style sounds far more refreshing and has a modern rock ‘n roll kind of aura to go along, slightly ringing in signs of alternative influence. The end result is as if Black Sabbath and Thin Lizzy had a child born in the age of Chevelle. With that said, this is immaculate. ” – Indy Metal Vault

“Violent Nature kicks off with the slithering riffs of “Snake in the Grass,” which comes crawling up slowly before striking with a venomous fuzz-riffy attack, and a soaring, fist-raising chorus. “Weightless Light” gets my head nodding right away with a solid stoner rock riff, while giving off a pretty decent Monster Truck vibe in the chorus – I can see why they made it the pre-release single.” – Hellbound

“This is what music is about. When you put yourself out there, you connect with others on a deeper level and that’s always a win.” – The Music Below

“Violent Nature surpasses their debut and then some; the Rocky Mountain trio have harnessed the best of the past, given it a fresh coat of paint, made me smile and just enjoy rock and roll in its purest form…” – The Sleeping Shaman

“In order for a band like this to succeed they have to be really good at what they do, and Woodhawk is very much that. They stand somewhere between protometal and first wave metal. Not quite as heavy as Sabbath and not nearly as classic-rocky as Deep Purple. But you put this record on, let it play, and see how long it takes you to notice that your foot… It’s on my vinyl to buy list.” – Glacially Musical

“The music and lyrics are born from genuine experiences, transpiring to add depth and a satisfying quantity to each song. Overall, this means Violent Nature is a real piece of music in every sense. Definitely recommended for fans of metal, heavy metal, traditional heavy metal, hard rock/classic rock fans, desert rock, stoner rock, and blues.” – Mosh Nerd Republic

“going by the lead single “Weightless Light” it seems like whatever they’re making the songs about, Woodhawk still bring the same sense of songcraft to their material, which is always good to know.” – The Obelisk

” The title track “Violent Nature” seems to have quite a different time signature and is gritty and chock full of depth. The lyrics are dark, melancholy and Turner’s vocals are yearning, pleading. You truly get a sense of the gloom within the album without it becoming murky.” – Boston Rock Radio

Canadian College Radio Loud Charts

Highlight: #1 on Top 10 – The National Loud Chart – For the Week Ending: Tuesday, January 28, 2020 (Earshot)
Highlight: #1 on Top 10 – The National Loud Chart – For the Week Ending: Tuesday, January 21, 2020 (Earshot)
Highlight: #1 on Top 10 – The National Loud Chart – For the Week Ending: Tuesday, January 14, 2020 (Earshot)
Highlight: #6 on Top 10 – The National Loud Chart – For the Week Ending: Tuesday, January 7, 2020 (Earshot)

#12 on National Loud Top 20 for 2017- Canadian College Radio Charts (Earshot) (Album – Beyond The Sun)

The best Canadian metal of 2017: Top 15, according to Hellbound.ca – #13 – Woodhawk (Album – Beyond The Sun)

“Calgarian riff-riders Woodhawk kicked off the proceedings, hitting all the gritty notes with their raucous roadhouse metal. Propane and Jack flowed freely as the golden western trio woke all them witches with their thematic rock fury.” – Beatroute (AB)

“The riffs are so catchy you’ll be humming them long after you remove headphones and the songs are so good you will be craving the next chance you get to sit down and listen to them again.” – The Sludgelord – Beyond The Sun Review (May 2017)

“Taking influence from bands such as Kyuss, The Sword and Truckfighters. Woodhawk offer a refreshing style of Psych Stoner Metal with moments of Fuzz and Desert Rock that add extra grit to their music.” – Outlaws of The Sun

“Take Red Fang, The Sword and Witchcraft, strip them of nearly all distortion and add a canny knack for catchy as fuck riffs, with a psychedelic edge, and you arrive at the dusty doorstep of Calgarian stoner rockers Woodhawk!” – Worship Metal

“The title track really sums up Woodhawk’s strengths. It comes across as a synthesis of Mastodon (circa Crack The Skye) and Kyuss circa their spacey, proggy Welcome To Sky Valley. I just love this track; everything is just right, a really catchy song with a very modern mid-section.” – Hellbound

“If you are a fan of bands like Priestess, Red Fang, Truck fighters and so on, then these guys genuinely are a must for you to check out.” – Ramzine

“As I was walking into the venue, I began hurrying up the stairs as their sound captured my attention right away and was quickly swept up into their thick pulse thumping guitars and huge powerhouse drum sound.” – Vancity Buzz

[Download Album Cover]
[Download Album Lyrics]

Album Title: Violent Nature
Release Date: November 1, 2019
Label: Self-Released

Track Listing:
1. Snake In The Grass (4:46)
2. Weightless Light (3:38)
3. Dry Blood (4:30)
4. Heartstopper (4:40)
5. Old Silence (4:46)
6. Clear The Air (5:32)
7. Violent Nature (5:31)
8. As A Friend (4:31)
9. Our Greatest Weakness (6:57)
Album Length: 44:54

Album Credits:
All songs performed by: Woodhawk
All songs written by: Woodhawk
Additional Keyboard/Piano by: Jesse Gander
Produced by: Jesse Gander (Rain City Recorders)
Mixed by: Jesse Gander
Assistant Engineer: Emeil Van Den Abbeele
Mastered by: Alan Douches (West West Side Music)
Album Artwork by: Mark Kowalchuck
Member of SOCAN

Woodhawk is:
Turner Midzain – Vocals & Guitar
Mike Badmington – Bass & Vocals
Kevin Nelson – Drums

(L-R): Turner Midzain – Guitar/Vocals, Kevin Nelson – Drums, Mike Badmington – Bass/Vocals

Photo Credit: Trevor Hatter

From the foot of the majestic Rocky Mountains hails Calgary, AB’s rock n’ roll trio Woodhawk. Masters of the straight-ahead riff rock, Woodhawk blends classic rock influences of Black Sabbath and Thin Lizzy with smooth grooves, cranked amps, and heavy-hitting drums. The coalescence of melodious vocals, catchy riffs, and dynamic instrumentation creates a vast soundscape for the listener to explore. With lyrical themes of science fiction and sorcery to more recent themes of struggles and triumph, Woodhawk wears their heart on their sleeve.

Woodhawk began in 2014 with the release of a self-titled EP, followed by the critically acclaimed full length “Beyond The Sun” in 2017. A melodically rich and varied album, steeped in science fiction themes and packed with undeniably catchy riffs, “Beyond the Sun” cemented Woodhawk’s status as a desert rock band with unlimited potential to break through into the mainstream. Rather than taking their freewheelin’ brand of lyrical chrono-metal into the comfortable bracket of factory-produced R’n’R, Woodhawk elected to explore the road less traveled.

Returning to Rain City Recorders in Vancouver, BC during February 2019, Woodhawk worked with Jesse Gander (Anciients, Bison, 3 Inches of Blood, Japandroids, Pack AD) to record their sophomore album “Violent Nature”. Over the course of 2 weeks, Woodhawk tracked their strongest effort yet, producing songs that address the struggles of mental health straight on, and laying it all on the line. Woodhawk’s new material abandons the world of fantasy in pursuit of emotional authenticity and self-discovery.

Our heroes’ quest for clarity and independence has landed them on the precipice of ambition and accomplishment. It’s a true turning point of entry for Woodhawk’s lofty yet assertive life-goals. The elegant anthems and pulsing chords of the next phase in the group’s sonic evolution can scarcely be contained. Grounded with one foot in the present and another in the dynamic future, Woodhawk’s outlook is as boundless as their command of their genre. With the new album due out on November 2, 2019, their intelligence, inventiveness and an uncanny knack for generating timeless tunes are ready to flood the senses and tug at the spirit with an easy-going nonchalance that embraces the audience with confidence and jean-jacketed arms.

Woodhawk features guitarist Turner Midzain, bassist Mike Badmington, and drummer Kevin Nelson. They have taken the stage at the Commodore Ballroom, Sled Island, and UP+DT, in addition to multiple Canadian tours. They have also shared the stage in support of Airbourne, Truckfighters, Elder, and The Shrine. Woodhawk has their sights set on touring North America and Europe to bring their highly energetic and captivating live performance to new audiences.

0 EPK – Die Another Day – Broken Youth (single)

September 7, 2019
by Asher
· Die Another Day · EPKs

Die Another Day

For fans of Thrice, A Day To Remember, Billy Talent, Avenged Sevenfold, All That Remains

Release Date: August 28, 2019
Label: DAD Records
Distribution: Distrokid

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Spotify | Google Play

Release Date: August 28, 2019
Label: DAD Records
Distribution: Distrokid

Single Credits:
• All songs performed by: Die Another Day
• All songs written by: Die Another Day
• Produced by: Die Another Day and Jesse Kopala
• Mixed by: Jesse Kopala
• Mastered by: Jamie King
• Single Artwork by: Tito Madrid

Single Band Line Up:
Jared Boyd: Vocals, drums
Tyler Johansen: Bass, rhythm guitar, vocals
Dominick Revoy: Lead guitar

Live Band Line Up:
Jared Boyd: Vocals, bass
Lance Macbain: Rhythm guitar, backing vocals
Dominick Revoy: Lead guitar
Tyler Johansen: Vocals, bass
Adrien Alin: Drums

Discography:
2019 – Broken Youth – Single

Shared The Stage:
The Moröns, The Galacticas, Diamonds On Neptune, A Nobodies Achievement

DIE ANOTHER DAY are one of Calgary, Canada’s freshest bands. Started in the spring of 2019 with a variety of influences, the quartet expands into multiple genres, getting fans excited to embrace different styles of music. Releasing their debut single ‘Broken Youth’ on August 28, 2019, the band gave a taste of what’s to come in a fun track that is creative, bouncy and upbeat. The single was mixed by Jesse Kopala along with being mastered by Jamie King (Between the Buried and Me, He Is Legend, Scale The Summit).

The band is really proud of the single, which has plenty of energetic riffs, aggressive lyrics, and melodic harmonies that everybody can really enjoy and get into.

The band explains:

“We all really love the single and I’m hoping fans feel the same as we do about it. We’re hoping fans wind up being as excited about the single as we are. We’re a new band in town and we have a different style of music that other bands. Hopefully, we leave them wanting more and hyped for another single in the future from us.”

With primary genres being metalcore and pop-punk, DIE ANOTHER DAY is recommended for fans of Thrice, A Day To Remember, Billy Talent, and Avenged Sevenfold and anyone else that enjoys high energy music that inspires jumping, headbanging, and fun. The band is preparing more material along with touring in the coming new year.

0 EPK – Messora – The Door (2019)

August 26, 2019
by Asher
· EPKs · Messora

Messora – The Door (2019)

For fans of Opeth, Children of Bodom, Lamb of God, Psycroptic, Gojira

Release Date: October 4, 2019
Label: Self Release
Distribution: Distrokid

Publicist / Press Relations – Jon Asher – asher(@)ashermediarelations.com

Facebook | Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify

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

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

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

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

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

“The Door is one record you certainly check out if you want nothing but solid tracks all the way through. This record will certainly put Messora on the metal map.” – Metal Utopia

“I am starting to sound like a broken record when I talk about all the bands who have released great debut records this year. Well, add another to the list, because Messora is here with their debut, The Door. Messora have created a melting pot of a debut record with how many styles they try to fit into The Door. Having not heard of this band prior to this, I was pleasantly surprised and satisfied with what I heard, especially considering it started as a solo project and bloomed into something much more, and I am beyond excited to see what they do on future records because they’re only going to get better.” – Metal Utopia

“one dynamic and briliant listening experience.” – Noob Heavy

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

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

“Promising career start for the Canadian quartet” – Broken Tomb Magazine

“Combining a variety of genres, the group made good impressions on those who shows up early with their tight musicianship and ability to change pace on a moment’s notice” – Apt 613

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

[Download Album Cover]
[Download Album Lyrics]

Release Date: October 4, 2019
Label: Self Release
Distribution: Distrokid

Track Listing:
1. The Door (6:04)
2. Tethered (1:34)
3. The Veil (9:40)
4. The Falling Star (8:48)
5. The Pond (5:30)
6. Untethered (3:31)
7. The Tide (9:08)
Album Length: 44:19

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by: Zach Dean, Ben Bertrand, Joey Larivière
• All songs written by: Zach Dean
• Produced by: Jonathan Lefrançois-Leduc and Zach Dean
• Mixed by: Jonathan Lefrançois-Leduc
• Mastered by: Jonathan Lefrançois-Leduc
• Album Artwork by: Maya Charest
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Album Band Line Up: Zach Dean, Ben Bertrand, Joey Larivière, James Cabral
Live Band Line Up: Zach Dean, Ben Bertrand, Joey Larivière, Graham Murphy

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

Festivals:
Vankleek Hill Farmfest 2019

Photo Credit: Vladim Vilain

SHORT BIO

Formed as a solo recording project in 2016 in Montréal, Québec, Messora has become a band that obscures and challenges genres. To the band, the music comes as what feels best in the moment. To the fans, it is a kaleidoscope of sound that appears different at every glance and to every eye.

Messora has been described as Death Metal, Black Metal, Thrash Metal, Progressive Metal, Melodic Metal, and Doom Metal by fans and showgoers. The elements that make up the music may seem familiar to some, yet the whole remains a challenge to define.

The band knows how to set themselves apart from others musically as well as aesthetically, with showmanship and presentation second only to musical performance during their live show. They demand attention with their presentation, but keep it with the strength of their performance and musicianship. Having shared the stage with bands such as Carach Angren, Mors Principium Est, and Wolfheart, Messora always delivers, visually, aesthetically and musically.

LONG BIO

When Zach Dean (guitars/vocals) decided to record his first song ‘The Door’ he approached Ben Bertrand (bass) to cover on the recording, Bertrand enjoyed the single so much he encouraged Dean to form a complete new band. Inspired, Dead agreed and Messora became a proper band. They enlisted Emine Topçu to do second guitar however she left shortly after the first show due to her return to university and was replaced by James Cabral. In the summer of 2019, Cabral was replaced with Graham Murphy. Dean met drummer Joey Larivière while he was auditioning for Whispers In The Maze and when Messora was initiated, invited him to take up the sticks for this new endeavour.

2019 is an exciting year for Messora, they played Vankleek Hill Farmfest and are currently finishing up production on their debut album “The Door” is due out October 4, 2019

0 EPK – Elegant Devils – Heartbreaker (single) (2019)

August 25, 2019
by Asher
· Elegant Devils · EPKs

Elegant Devils

For fans of The Glorious Sons, Thornley, Halestorm, Monster Truck, The Trews

Release Date: June 5, 2019
Label: Self-Release

ElegantDevils.com | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube

Spotify | Apple Music

“If you are looking for adrenaline fuelled heart pumping rock, then Elegant Devils is the band for you.” – Darkland Promotions.

“Every tune just resonated with us, fantastic live energy and stage presence is what you get when you witness The Elegant Devils play.” – Soundcheck/RBX Radio.

“Their strong musicianship is vividly apparent on all their songs, but especially shines when they really get rocking.” – Electric Music Lover Spotlight.

“The guys in the band are so incredibly diverse musically, which comes across on the EP’s songs” – Fireworks Magazine.

“A group of ruggedly handsome men, who make the kind of music you listen to after having angry make up sex with your ex.” – MJ Mari. Live 88.5 & CKDJ 107.9

“A group of hardworking, talented guys who have a genuine love for music and the music scene. This is apparent in their consistent efforts to play their music for anyone who will listen and their earnest attitude to do what needs to be done. Its been my pleasure to work with this group of fun loving guys several times and I wouldn’t hesitate to work with them again.” – Andrea Desjardins. RockSteady Booking

“While working with the band at The Rainbow Bistro, the band did a cover of Aerosmith’s Dream On. People were flying in off the streets to listen. Drew James’ vocals had people totally blown away” – Bryant McNamara. The Dead Centuries & The Rainbow Bistro

Single Title: Heartbreaker (Single)
Release Date: June 5, 2019
Label: Self-Release

Single Credits:
• All songs performed by: The Elegant Devils
• All songs written by: The Elegant Devils
• Produced by: Rob Frank, Ottawa Ontario, Canada
• Mixed by: Jon Harris at Rock Metal Studios Edmonton Alberta, Canada.
• Mastered by: Jon Harris at Rock Metal Studios Edmonton Alberta, Canada.
• Album Artwork by: Rob Frank
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Album and Live Band Line Up: Drew James (Lead Vocals), Rob Frank (Drums/Backing Vocals), Josh Barkley (Bass/Backing Vocals), & Josh West (Lead Guitar).

Discography:
2019 – Heartbreaker – Single
2016 – Live at Zaphod’s – EP
2015 – Guilty Pleasure – EP

Shared Stage with: The Big Sway, Aenigma, Stynger, Arms Of The Girl, Crossing Jane, Red Heaven, Great Panic, The Fake Sick, Brown Paper Bag

Tours & Festivals:
2018 – Rebel 101.7 FM’s Big Money Shot Finals. Ottawa, ON
2018 – Nothing But Grace Fest. Westmeath, ON
2018 – CBC Searchlight Contest
2017 – CBC Searchlight Contest

L-R – Josh West – Guitar, Drew James – Lead Vocals, Rob Frank – Drums/Backing Vocals, Josh Barkley – Bass/Backing Vocals

Photo Credit – The Elegant Devils

Energetic, creative and unique, Ottawa’s ELEGANT DEVILS add a touch of brilliance to their rock music that has soul, emotion and a bit of grit. Not losing sight of who they are, ELEGANT DEVILS hope to convey a more mature sound as they fine-tune their skills.

With each of the four members having diverse musical influences, ELEGANT DEVILS tinker and experiment with a variety of elements, while remaining firmly rooted in rock. Their latest single ‘Heartbreaker’ released on June 5, 2019, evolved over time and the band feels it is a great foundation for what can be expected from them in the future.

The band quotes:

“Heartbreaker is a small look into what the band has been working on. It’s upbeat, energetic, sounds like us, and just felt like the right song to release as a new single. We hope our listeners have an enjoyable experience with this one. One that will serve as a reminder that we are working away on new material. That we are excited to share what we have been working on with everyone and can’t wait until it sees the light of day.”

ELEGANT DEVILS hope to satiate their fans with this single as they write and record their next album to be released a yet to be determined date. Elegant Devils features Drew James (Lead Vocals), Rob Frank (Drums/Vocals), Josh West (Guitar) and Josh Barkley (Bass/Vocals).

0 EPK – Black Mastiff – Loser Delusions (2019) (Grand Hand Records)

August 17, 2019
by Asher
· Black Mastiff · EPKs

Black Mastiff – Loser Delusions (2019) (Grand Hand Records)

For fans of Deep Purple, Queens of the Stone Age, Black Keys, Kyuss

Release Date: October 18, 2019
Label: Grand Hand Records
Distribution: Grand Hand Records

Publicist / Media Relations – Jon Asher(@)ashermediarelations.com

Booking: blackmastiffband(@)gmail.com

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube

Bandcamp | Apple Music | Amazon

“This one rises above the ultra-crowded stoner rock genre with its seriously ’70s vibe, cool and lazy vocal delivery, warm production and adherence to the riff over everything else.” – Exclaim

“Black Mastiff is a power trio that creates their own version of stoner rock. They take a super heavy riff for a ride and explore a groove with a heavy rhythmic infra-structure and beautiful melodic vocals that bear the influence of the sounds of the desert.” – Coachella Valley Weekly

“I’m a fan of music….when you hear music that makes you feel….well, that’s what Black Mastiff did for me…they made me feel…… there was just something there. When music makes you feel anything, anything at all. Happy, sad, takes you back…I don’t care who it is. I don’t care if it’s Earth, Wind or Fire, Motley Crue, if it draws out deep emotion, I become a fan. I became a fan of Black Mastiff when Bruno Fevery and I caught their set….So much so, that I covered one of their songs on my new solo album.” – John Garcia-(KYUSS, Slo Burn, Vista Chino)

“I saw them in Edmonton, Canada. They have such a unique take on music and just when you think you know where it’s gonna go, they take it somewhere completely unexpected….some of their songs remind me of a modern version of The Doors whether they see it or not.” – John Garcia – (KYUSS, Slo Burn, Vista Chino)

Canadian Tour Dates:
October 10 – Lethbridge, AB – Owl Acoustic Lounge *
October 11 – Calgary, AB – The Palomino Smokehouse *
October 12 – Regina, SK – The German Club *
October 13 – Winnipeg, MB – The Handsome Daughter *
October 15 – Sudbury, ON – The Asylum *
October 16 – Ottawa, ON – House of Targ *
October 17 – Montreal, QC – Turbo Haus *
October 18 – Toronto, ON – Hard Luck *
October 19 – Windsor, ON – Dominion House *
October 20 – Hamilton, ON – This Ain’t Hollywood
October 21 – Sault Ste. Marie, ON – LopLops
October 22 – Kenora, ON – Bob’s Burgers
October 23 – Saskatoon – Black Cat Tavern
October 25 – Edmonton, AB – Temple *
October 26 – Red Deer, AB – The Vat *
November 14 – Kamloops, BC – The Kami
November 15 – Kelowna , BC – Fernando’s
November 16 – Vancouver, BC – SBC
* = w/ Chron Goblin

[Download Album Cover]
[Download Album Lyrics]

Album Title: Loser Delusions
Release Date: October 18, 2019
Label: Grand Hand Records
Distribution: Grand Hand Records

Track Listing:
1. Down By A sound (4:44)
2. Bike Club (4:33)
3. Machines (4:23)
4. A Tangle (4:33)
5. Other Kinds (3:46)
6. Star Base 77 (4:02)
7. Paddle (3:57)
8. Mind Vibe (4:30)
9. Spastic Rhythms (4:14)
10. Stranger (4:26)
Album Length: 43:13

Album Credits:
– All songs performed by: Black Mastiff
– All songs written by: Black Mastiff
– Produced by: Bobby Yiannakoulias and Clay Shea
– Recording Engineer: Nik Kozub at The Audio Department
– Mixing and Mastering: Greg Dawson at BWC Studios
– Album artwork: Bobby Yiannakoulias
– Member of SOCAN
– All content is MAPL CanConAlbum Band and Live Line Up:– Bobby Yiannakoulias – Guitar and lead vocals
– Clay Shea – Bass and Backing vocals
– Allan Harding – Drums and Backing vocalsDiscography:2010 – Self Titled EP
2012 – Pyramids LP
2014 – Black Mastiff/John Garcia Split 7” Napalm Records
2015 – Music Machine LP (Co-Produced by John Garcia) New Damage Records
2019 – Loser Delusion LPShared Stage with:Red Fang, The Sword, Boris, Vista Chino, Dead Meadow, Sparta, Here Lies Man, Cancer Bats

Tours and Festivals:
2018 – Okanagan Tattoo Festival – Kelowna
2017 – Up and Downtown Festival – Edmonton
2017 – 420 Music Festival – Calgary
2017 – Vantopia – Equity
2016 – Levitation – Vancouver
2015 – Riot Fest – TorontoMusic Placements:
2015 – The Smalls Documentary “Forever Is A Long Time” Film introduction has a live performance of the song “Damned” from the album “Music Machine”

L-R: | Allan Harding (Drums) | Bobby Yiannakoulias (Guitar and Vocals) | Clay Shea (Bass)

Photo Credit –A.Kalinowski

Edmonton’s Black Mastiff (Bob Yiannakoulias, Clay Shea, Allan Harding) is a band built around lifelong friendship and having fun, a vibe they’ve extended to both their porous, heavy, and vigorous live performance, and their recordings: their first album Pyramids noted for “ris[ing] above the ultra-crowded stoner rock genre with its cool and lazy vocal delivery, warm production and adherence to the riff over everything else” (Greg Pratt Exclaim Magazine, 2012). Also elevating the band’s sound is their continued blending of expected and unexpected influences—everything from 70s metal to Stevie Wonder. When I write guitar riffs I usually imagine Stevie Wonder is singing the notes, says singer Yiannakoulias. If I can hear his voice in my notes then I’m keeping it. So is Stevie Wonder stoner rock!? Sure why not.

With their third full-length album Loser Delusions (Fall 2019), keeping it together became a literal priority. During the four years since their well-received Music Machine (New Damage Records, 2015), recorded and beautifully produced at Thunder Underground Studio in the desert of Palm Springs with John Garcia (Kyuss, Vista Chino), the trio had to change their perception of how a band operates. Already Renaissance men and entrepreneurs in other life ventures, when facing unforeseen challenges the band sharpened their production and business know-how by starting their own label, Grand Hand, with tour mates Chron Goblin. When drummer Allan moved to Vancouver, they decided to see how distance apart could add to, rather than take away from, their creative process and sound. The result is a determined continuation of what they do best, with a voyaging out into new sonic territory.

With Loser Delusions, one still hears Black Mastiff’s signature groove: sly, moody, leaning into a blizzard of distortion. Again, the comradely instrumentation contrasts nicely with Yiannakoulias’s singular, yearning, existential vocals that speak to his listener in clouded lonely confessions, through half-glimpsed, elemental psychic-scapes of uncertain sky, rising rivers and darkness “looking for something that does not exist yet.” But the musical and lyrical theme of artistic searching for new experience is heightened on Loser Delusion, the tone more awake, the touch more urgent: we all need a rest, getting through this mess Yiannakoulias sings on the first track “Down By a Sound”.

With the freedom of independent time, there was more pre-production consideration—most notably, the conscious addition of quiet, fast and loud songs to their mid-tempo repertoire. There’s also the inclusion of curious electronic intros, big undulating walls of layered guitar that rise up excitedly around base tracks, and engulf the syth sounds borrowed from recording agent Nik Kozub (The Audio Department, Edmonton). Physical distance between members has also contributed to the albums big sound. Sometimes, says Yiannakoulias, there are elements, like in the end of the song “Stranger” [the last track], that sound like… the size of the gap between us. Complementing this experimental phase was the blast of getting things done: music files flew back and forth across provinces—bass and guitar parts worked on by Shea and Yiannakoulias in Edmonton fired off to Vancouver to be filled in by Harding who later completed his parts on ten songs in record time, pushing his masterful drum skills to the max.

Loser Delusions, a pun on the Guns ‘n Roses infamous album, suggests humour is integral to the serious reach for creative betterment that brings exciting rewards but also lures one into a business that is tricky at best. Hope the station knows that I’ve arrived: its lyrics grapple ambiguously with questions of authenticity, but Black Mastiff is a band mature enough musically and professionally to harness illusion while also confronting the ego’s delusions. As they say: We try not to take ourselves too seriously but that doesn’t mean we aren’t seriously working.

Bio by Thea Bowering

Page 67 of 74

Asher Media Relations Tweets

Tweets by AsherMedia

Asher Media Email Subscription

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address:

Join 2,154 other subscribers