Category: EPKs

0 EPK – Striker – Play To Win (2018) (Record Breaking Records)

August 13, 2018
by Asher
· EPKs · Striker

Striker – Play To Win (2018) (Record Breaking Records)

Release Date: October 26, 2018

LABEL: Record Breaking Records

DISTRIBUTION: CD Baby

For Fans of Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Enforcer, Skullfist, Steelwing

PR Rep – Jon Asher – ashermedia(@)gmail.com

iTunes | Big Cartel | CD Baby

Download High Res Photo | Download High Res Album Cover

STRIKER 2019 North American Tour Dates

w/ Death Angel

May 14 – Oklahoma City, OK – 89th St

May 15 – Lubbock, TX – Jakes

May 16 – Albuquerque, NM – Launchpad

May 17 – Phoenix, AZ – Club Red

May 18 – Los Angeles, CA – Whiskey

May 19 – San Francisco, CA – DNA Lounge

Striker only dates

May 25 – Calgary, AB – Border Crossing – East Town Get Down Festival w/ Anvil, and many others

June 9 – Sault Ste. Marie, ON – Soo Blaster

June 10 – Sudbury, ON – The Asylum

June 11 – Ottawa, ON – Mavericks

w/ Steel Panther

June 14 – Barrie, ON – Mavericks Music Hall

June 15 – London, ON – London Music Hall

June 17 – Thunder Bay, ON – NV Nightclub

June 18 – Winnipeg, MB – Burton Cummings Theatre

June 20 – Saskatoon, SK – Coors Event Centre

June 21 – Medicine Hat, AB – The Cypress Centre

June 23 – Edmonton, AB – Union Hall

June 25 – Grand Prairie, AB – Bowes Event Centre

Striker Headlining Dates

July 2 – Kelowna, BC – Muninn’s Post *with Lost Nebula

July 3 – Vancouver, BC – Astoria *with Lost Nebula

July 5 – Seattle, WA – El Corazon *with Neck of the Woods

July 6 – Portland, OR – High Water Mark *with Neck of the Woods

July 7 – Eugene, OR – Old Nicks *with Neck of the Woods

w/ Holy Grail, Bewitcher

July 12 – Phoenix, AZ – Club Red

July 13 – El Paso, TX – The San Carlos Building

July 14 – Austin, TX – Come And Take It Live

July 15 – Dallas, TX – Gas Monkey Bar & Grill

July 16 – Houston, TX – White Oak

July 18 – Orlando, FL – Soundbar

July 19 – Atlanta, GA – Drunken Unicorn

July 20 – Asheville, NC – Mothlight

July 21 – Richmond, VA – The Camel

July 23 – Philadelphia, PA – Kung Fu Necktie

July 24 – Brooklyn, NY – Saint Vitus

July 25 – Boston, MA – Once

July 26 – Montreal, QC – Turbo Haus

July 27 – Toronto, ON – Velvet Underground

July 28 – Detroit, MI – Small’s

July 29 – Chicago, IL – Reggies

July 31 – Denver, CO – Streets Of London

August 1 – Salt Lake City, UT – Metro

August 2 – Las Vegas, NV – Counts Vamp’d

August 3 – San Diego, CA – Brick By Brick

August 4 – Los Angeles, CA – Resident

“Play to Win, which might be their most balanced effort yet. It’s their most catchy, too: the likelihood you’ll be singing along with every song before they finish is very, very high.” – Metal Sucks

“expertly combined killer arena rock choruses with well-done, cleaner verses.” – Metal Injection

“Six albums in six years. That is something almost unheard of, even in the modern era of production that considerably lessens the time needed to record and mix albums. Striker always seems to provide a new album right around when I start to wonder, “Hey, I wonder what Striker is up to?”. PLAY TO WIN is the band’s 6th LP and to my ears, one of their best. Rest assured, the band has not altered their sound. This is still classic metal, mixed with modern elements that continues to leave all pretenders in a cloud of choking dust.” – Metal Rules

“You can hear influences ranging from Dokken to Metallica on Play to Win, and it’s all done with masterful songwriting, performances and production. This is a slick, aggressively-mixed record that drips with excitement and replayability… Striker have produced their best record since City of Gold, and all fans of straight-up hard rock and metal need to own this album.” – Heavy Music HQ

“Striker have knocked this one out of the park and into the stratosphere. You’d be hard-pressed to find a catchier slice of fine cheddar this year, and I’d highly recommend it.” – New Noise Mag

“STRIKER have done it again. They hath given unto thee one monster of a metal album that simply begs to be put on REPEAT.” – Amps And Green Screens

““Catchy choruses, well-crafted riffs and squealing solos are woven throughout… Play to Win is another solid effort from Striker.” – The Metal Crypt

“Each track is overflowing with riffs and hooks that captivate the listener. Each track stands strong enough on its own, but together create a strong contender for another Juno nomination. This is not an album you should overlook.” – Hellbound

“If you like 80’s rock with big guitars, or metal that’s fun in general, check out Striker and crank it up. You won’t regret it, I promise.” – Diary of A Music Addict

“Blending the music by Iron Maiden with Motley Crüe, Stratovarius and Van Halen, which in the end resulted in sheer awesomeness, Striker offer us the thrilling On The Run, showcasing a brilliant vocal performance by Dan while William keeps extracting that metallic sound we all love form his bass, whereas The Front is another classic song by Striker, also feeling as it was taken from an 80’s Hair Metal album…Striker are a band that keeps winning no matter what with each and every release and the flame of Canadian metal will remain alive and vibrant while we have those skillful metalheads from Edmonton among us, always playing to win. ” – The Headbanging Moose

“Striker gush with so much enthusiasm here, with explosive riffs swirling between the vibrant harmonies and choruses, that it’s hard not to notice…Tracks like “Former Glory” and “Born to Lose” are anthemic, catchy as hell and feature soaring vocals from Dan Cleary and terrific guitar work by Tim Brown…On Striker, the band take a host of influences and hone them into a sound they can call their own.” – Exclaim!

“From the first storm-summoning power chord on the opener Former Glory, Striker (CAN) proves their new album’s initial claim of not dwelling on the past, a high and appropriate cry of “Yeah, I’m back again!”… If you haven’t witnessed this inspiring resurrection of classic metal, the band plays Friday, April 14 at Starlite with Ravenous and Tylor Dory Trio, no doubt sharpened from the faithful overseas audiences.” – Edmonton Journal

“When a band releases an eponymous album it’s a statement of intent, a sign of confidence, everything being as it should be. For make no mistake, Striker are a special band. As the old Metal Gods ascend to Valhalla, new gods will arise. This is Striker’s fifth album and it’s just timeless. Not retro, not looking back, but taking everything that’s uplifting and glorious about heavy metal into 2017 and beyond…this album has to be in every writer and fan’s top ten at the end of 2017.” – Hellbound

“A less balls out, more aggressive record than its predecessor, STRIKER delivers another impressive collection of high energy headbangers….Regardless of what your heavy metal predilections may be, STRIKER offers something for everyone. Super catchy tunes dripping with shred gymnastics and all around technical prowess, Striker deserves a place on any metal fan’s playlist….If you have not experienced Striker yet, this album is a worthy place to start and should appeal to a wide range of fans, particularly followers of the Priest, Anthrax and Maiden.” – Metal Rules

2019 Canadian Loud Charts: Striker – Play To Win
Highlight #11 – National Loud Top 20 of 2018 – (Earshot)
Highlight: #2 – December 2018 – National Top 20 Loud Chart (Earshot)
Highlight #167 on Top 200 – November 2018 – The National Chart (Earshot)
Highlight: #12 – October 2018 – National Top 20 Loud Chart (Earshot)

Track Listing:
1. Heart of Lies (4:04)
2. Position of Power (3:40)
3. Head of Power (4:02)
4. On The Run (3:51)
5. The Front (4:02)
6. Play To Win (3:48)
7. Standing Alone (4:56)
8. Summoner (4:04)
9. Heavy Is The Heart (4:54)
10. Hands of Time (3:46)
Album Length: 41:11

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by Striker
• All songs written by Striker
• Produced by Striker
• Mixed and Mastered by Hendrik Udd at Udd Recording Studios
• Gang Vocals: Lindsay Robinson, John Kennedy, Nathan Schadeck
• Gang Vocals Recorded at The Audio Department
• Guitar, Bass and Vocals Recorded by Dan Cleary at RBR Studios
• Drums Recorded and Performed by Randy Black
• Available on: http://www.striker-metal.com, cdbaby, and all major digital distributors
• Cover Artwork by Elvis Amaral (HipnoFX Audiovisual)

Album Recording Line Up:
Vocals – Dan Cleary
Guitar – Tim Brown
Guitar – Chris Segger
Bass – William Wallace
Drums – Randy Black

Live Line Up:
Vocals – Dan Cleary
Guitar – Tim Brown
Guitar – Chris Segger
Bass – William Wallace
Drums – Adam Brown

Photo Credit: Dana Zuk

Champions in blending classic heavy metal, hard rock, and 80’s hair metal, Canadian shredders STRIKER announce they will be unleashing their sixth studio album “Play To Win” on October 26th via their independent label Record Breaking Records. Revealing their artwork and track listing, the album features 10 fist pounding shredtacular anthems produced by the band plus mixed and mastered by Hendrik Udd (Firewind, Powerwolf, Hammerfall, Delain). The album follows their 2017 self-titled full length that the band supported with tours across Europe and North America with Sonata Arctica, Dark Tranquility, and Warbringer along with festival appearances at 70,000 Tons of Metal, Bang Your Head Festival (Germany) and more to add to their almost 1000 shows performed in their decade plus career. That fifth studio album also garnered them a nomination from Canada’s JUNO awards, the country’s highest music prize, along with wins at the Edmonton Music Awards and Western Canadian Awards.

In support of the release of “Play To Win”, STRIKER are launching a crowd funding campaign along with album pre-order via their official website www.striker-metal.com/shop beginning August 9th.

Guitarist Tim Brown comments:

“Play to Win: if you want to win you have to play the game. Find the rules and break them. This is our 6th album and 3rd independent release. If we followed the rules and listened to the industry people we’d have gone absolutely nowhere. Play To Win is about listening to yourself, following your own path, and playing that 5th ace hidden in your sleeve. This album is designed to light a fire under your ass and get you moving, and we made sure to get the most modern, ear melting sounds possible. It’s all about where metal is going, not where it has been, and this is our soundtrack to success.”

CDs and digital downloads available on Striker-Metal.com, iTunes, Amazon, Spotify and CD Baby.

2017 Canadian Loud Charts:

Highlight: #4 – The National Loud Top 20 for 2017 (Earshot)

Highlight: #8 – April 2017 – National Top 20 Loud Chart (Earshot)

Highlight: #1 – March 2017 – National Top 20 Loud Chart (Earshot)

Highlight: #1 – February 2017 – National Top 20 Loud Chart (Earshot)

0 EPK – Hitman – The Offering: Side1 (EP) (2018)

August 12, 2018
by Asher
· EPKs · Hitman

Hitman – The Offering: Side 1 (EP) (2018)

For fans of Clutch, Down, Black Sabbath, Sleep, Pantera, Monster truck, Metallica

Release Date September 14, 2018
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: CD Baby

Publicist – Jon Asher – ashermedia(@)gmail.com

“However, what they’d rather impart upon you is their love for adult beverages. Given Decibel’s and Hitman’s mutual love of suds (rumour has it there’s a festival we’re throwing out west in a few months that’s all about metal and beer; get your tickets here) and the various permutations of metal spawned from the roots of the family tree planted by Black Sabbath, the ol’ liver pounders should get along well ‘round these parts.”- Decibel Magazine

“Halifax stoner-metal outfit Hitman is back with its third release, The Offering: Side One, a four-track EP that shows both progression in sound and better execution of bringing its live atmosphere on record. The songs are its most hot-blooded to date, with guitar tones dialled-in in a way that follows the band’s lead, instead of the other way around.” – The Coast (Halifax Weekly)

“Dirty, scruffy, fuzzy riffs. Beards and whiskey. Biker anthems and huge groove. That just about sums up this monstrously strong four-track third EP from Hitman, a four-piece band who hail from Nova Scotia….it’s a chunky slab of stoner rock which should be on everyone’s menu.” – Powerplay Mag UK

“an onslaught of intense, energetic, and sick-nasty jams ” – Canadian Beats

“Hitman’s The Offering (Side 1) is gritty, hard-hitting, and accessible, with a nice southern sludge aftertaste. Certainly, fans of Orange Goblin and Corrosion of Conformity will find plenty of sustenance here.” – Doom & Stoned

“If you like your stoner metal dripping in riffs, hooks, crusty growls and soaked in liquor then you’re in luck as that is exactly what Hitman are offering on this 4-track EP. Energetic and intense, this EP looks to capture the rock-bar sound of a live experience. It’s hard not to envision a dirty dive bar with shots of whiskey lined up while Hitman smash apart the stage with the catchy groove of Under the Weight, Nero and Enchanted Wizard/Hail the Outro. ” – Games, Brrraaains & A Headbanging Life

“This is a gem. Hitman kill it on these four cuts. Part two is due next year and you can count me in.” – Maximum Volume Music

“it rocks and rocks out powerfully…”The Offering: Side 1″ leaves you with a satisfied grin and strengthened neck muscles.” – PowerMetal.de

“A well-rounded set of tracks, with plenty of hooky little moments to lodge in the ears and memory, this batch of tunes should have fans well satisfied while drawing in a good crowd of new listeners to hear what they’ll come up with next.” – The Burning Beard

“The Offering: Side 1 exudes a corny type of old-time groove that I seldom find these days. This is how Stoner Rock ought to sound, full of long-gone flavors reminiscent of early Black Sabbath and Judas Priest combined. With a few additional amps added to the fray, of course – because they can. So, here’s to a juicy slice of rock, straight from the cold shores of Canada. Go and get some, you will not be disappointed” – Rock Music Raider

“Curtain Call hits fast with dirty riffs. Under The Weight crushes, throbbing drums with a hell of a swagger. Nero tears it up, thick massive licks, romans ablaze. Enchanted Wizard/Hail The Outro charges forth, taking no prisoners as it lays waste to the landscape with dope hits. I look forward to seeing what Hitman can do with a full-length.” – WRUV 90.1 FM (Burlington, VT)

“”The Offering Side 1″ is their third ep and quite possibly, their best. While executing the same energy they bring to their live show this recording easily demonstrates why Hitman are among the premier heavy bands coming out of Atlantic Canada right now. From the opening riff of “Curtain Call” to the end of “Enchanted Wizard/Hail The Outro” this EP kicks ass and keeps the energy high without repeating itself. Each song contains a perfect blend of raspy yet melodic vocals, blistering guitars and great songwriting.” – Bill Aresnault – Mettalworx

“So I’ve had the privilege to sit down with the new Hitman EP, and here’s what’s up. The boys hit back full throttle with their trademark take on Heavy Metal, which delves with influences from a couple generations of the genre for a unique sense familiarity; yet sounds fresh and engaging. With a riffing style that could almost be described as Pantera meets Black Sabbath, vocals that ring, to me, as a James Hetfield/Phil Anselmo hybrid; furthermore with a melodic sense that strongly reminds me of Thin Lizzy. On top of that, with a superb production job that captures all these vibes on point that will melt your ear holes. Hitman cover all the bases adding their individual touch along the way bringing their strand of ‘Heavy Fucking Metal’ to the Maritime scene. Looking forward to Pt. II of the EP at a later date!!” – Travis Macleod

Release Date September 14, 2018
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: CD Baby

Track Listing:
1. Curtain Call (2:03)
2. Under the Weight (5:27)
3. Nero (4:42)
4. Enchanted Wizard/ Hail The Outro (5:20)
EP Length: 17:34

EP Credits:
All songs Performed by: Coutts. Coderre, Norman, Rose
All songs written by: Coutts, Coderre, Norman, Rose
Produced by: Brycen Gunn
Mixed by: Darren Van Niekerk
Mastered By: Noah Mintz
Members of SOCAN and MAPL – Canadian Content

Album and Live Line Up:
Jordan Rose – Vocals
Corey Norman – Guitars
Andrew Coutts – Bass
Sylvain Coderre – Drums

Discography
2018 – The Offering: Side 1(EP)
2014 – The Preacher (EP) and Re Released with bonus track in 2015
2013 – Whiskey Downfall (EP)

L-R – Sylvain Coderre -Drums, Corey Norman – Guitars, Andrew Coutts – Bass, Jordan Rose – Vocals – Photo Credit = Emily Wilkins

SHORT BIO:

Playing an energetic brand of stoner metal guaranteed to get your blood pumping and headbanging, Hitman have been unleashing their unique whiskey rock assault since 2011. Located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, they have been gaining notoriety by playing hundreds of gigs along with festivals plus Rob Halford of Judas Priest supported the band by wearing a Hitman T-shirt onstage during a performance in Halifax in 2015. Talk about great exposure!

With 2 EPs under their bullet belts (“Whiskey Downfall” (2013); “The Preacher” (2014)), they continue to conjure a blend of stoner rock that is both familiar and fresh. With new music in the cauldron, “The Offering: Side 1” EP planned for release in 2018 followed by “The Offering: Side 2” in 2019, Hitman is poised to continue proving why they are one of Canada’s best up and coming acts.

LONG BIO:

Sylvain Coderre (drums) started the project initially and reached out to long time friend Jordan Rose (vocals) to see if he’d be interested in fronting the band, who was followed by Andrew Coutts (bass). A week before their debut tour the band found themselves short on members so Corey Norman (guitars) stepped in, learned the setlist in a week, they hit the road with the solidified lineup.

With musical influences ranging from Black Sabbath to Pantera to Sleep, Hitman coins themselves as high energy, whiskey infused and stoner rock keen on punching out hard rock riffs.

“We’re a stoner band who drinks too much and loves to party. So the roots of sludgy stoner rock are there but the booze fuels some more up-tempo songs. Basically we just want fans to enjoy the music and live shows as much as we enjoy making the tunes and performing.” quips vocalist Jordan Rose.

In 2013, Hitman performed at the inaugural Maritime Metal and Hard Rock Fest in Nova Scotia, Canada and released their debut EP “Whiskey Downfall”. In 2014, they returned to the festival as headliners and dropped the second EP “The Preacher” which was re-released in 2015 with a bonus track. Continuing on this momentum, Hitman won their way to play at Warped Tour 2016 in New York through contest held by Live 105 FM. That year they also returned to headline the Maritime Metal and Hard Rock Fest again.

With 3 EPs under their bullet belts, they continue to conjure a blend of stoner rock that is both familiar and fresh. With new music in the cauldron, “The Offering: Side 1” EP planned for release in 2018 followed by “The Offering: Side 2” in 2019, Hitman is poised to continue proving why they are one of Canada’s best up and coming acts.

Shared Stage with:
Sum 41, New Found Glory, Silverstein, Metalian, Zaum, Skull Fist, The Agonist, Black Wizard, Diemonds, Black Moor, Chaos Theory, Killmore, Orchid’s Curse, Dead Quiet

Festivals and Tours
2018 – Yes Fest
2017 – Freedom Fest
2016 – Hitman and The Vagetarians Cruising For A Boozin Tour
2016 – East Coast Awakening
2016 – Maritime Metal and Hard Rockfest (Headlined)
2016 – Vans Warped tour, Darien lake, NY
2015 – Mettalfest (Mettalworx)
2015 – Fearfest
2015 – Wharf Rat Rally
2015 – The Way of The Road Tour with Black Moor
2014 – Maritime Metal and Hard Rockfest (Headlined)
2013 – Mettalfest (Mettalworx)
2013 – Maritime Metal and Hard Rockfest
2013 – Sanktuary and Hitman Tour
2013 – Spread The Metal Festival

0 EPK – Ape Vermin – Sonic Monolith (2018)

July 31, 2018
by Asher
· Ape Vermin · EPKs

Ape Vermin – Sonic Monolith

For fans of Conan, Slabdragger, High On Fire, Sumac

Release Date: June 13, 2018
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: CD Baby

“Cool riffs abound in “Abominable Hash-Men” and “Witch-Jive”, but the title track surprises with a mixture of hard hitting angry metal, total doom drone and a final chug of boogie. The cover art is also striking. Pretty much a great debut from Ape Vermin. ” – Wormwood Chronicles

“Sonic Monolith is an impressive debut for a band that only formed last year. It’s a band that have a built in audience with their Sabbath-meets-Conan sludge metal.” – Hellbound

“Astral Drones kicks in with some sludge, the distorted feedback fuelling the urge for a mosh and a half. The slowness of the riffs, and the delivery of the vocals makes this one hell of an opener. ” – The Median Man

“The clarity and production on this album is second to none. Crisp as the morning frost on the tips of fresh cut grass. The bellowing sludge that is Ape Vermin has an eye towards a very clean churning sound. The impact and depth at which Brett Lee’s crass yet crystal clear vocals hits will take you aback. The North Carolina trio kick off their debut with well thought out high-end sludge where the cathartic fuzz dominates. Five tracks that engross and some progressive influences that shine on “Abominable Hashmen” (check-out the last minute of fretwork). Recruiting David Paul Seymour to do the artwork was also a brilliant move to add some intrigue to the eye of sludge fans.” – Rotation 11

Album Title: “Sonic Monolith”
Release Date: June 13, 2018
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: CD Baby

Track Listing of Album:
1. Astral Drones (9:28)
2. Oath (4:58)
3. Abominable Hashmen (6:09)
4. Witch-Jive (4:19)
5. Sonic Monolith (12:10)
Album Length: 37:06

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by: APE VERMIN
• All songs written by: Brett Lee and Charlie Burleson.
• Produced by: Barry Sams
• Mixed by: Barry Sams
• Mastered by: Barry Sams
• Album Artwork by: David Paul Seymour

Album Band Line Up:
Brett Lee, Jeb Laird and Charlie Burleson.

Live Band Line Up:
Brett Lee, Jeb Laird and Charlie Burleson.

Discography:
2018 – Sonic Monolith LP

Shared Stage with:
Garrow, Oakskin, Coffin Torture

Tours / Festivals:
2018 – Bartertown fest – Morganton, N.C
2018 – Starkfest – Greenville, S.C

L-R = Jeb Laird – Bass/Backing Vocals, Charlie Burleson – Percussion, Brett Lee – Guitar/Lead Vocals/Secondary Percussionist – Photo credit: Shyann Roland

SHORT BIO:

Formed in August 2017 by Brett Lee (guitar/vocals/percussion) and Charlie Burleson (percussion), Ape Vermin is a sludge metal trio hailing from Valdese, North Carolina that delivers progressive, primal and percussive grooves to the masses. Birthed from the same vein of doomy prog acts such as Conan, Sumac, and Slabdragger, they are a treat for anyone who wishes to indulge in thick, tasteful riffs and a heavy, distorted overall sound.

After enlisting the talents of Charlie Burleson and Jeb Laird (bassist/backup vocals), the band began writing and the debut album “Sonic Monolith” was released in June of 2018 with a great response. Sonic Monolith is the story of higher beings with a malevolent plan to release a dangerous subspecies of an ape with the ultimate goal of re-propagating the galaxy.

Still a fledgling band, Ape Vermin continues to push their limits as musicians, and test different styles, genres and influence to further develop their sound. Focusing on sludge and doom, Ape Vermin likes to keep things spicy with nods to black metal and prog. With future plans to tour, and release more albums as well a comic book, Ape Vermin is looking forward to the future.

LONG BIO:

Ape Vermin was the product of a dark rut that Brett Lee found himself in while between musical endeavours. Under the influence of the band Iron Monkey, Brett was inspired by the song Big Loader and under the hum of fluorescent lighting at a gas station in the middle of the night, things fell into place and the new project was named.

After enlisting the talents of Charlie Burleson and Jeb Laird (bassist/backup vocals), the band began writing and the debut album “Sonic Monolith” was released in June of 2018 with a great response. Citing that they, as a band, want to give listeners a journey, they broach topics including astronomy, murder, occult, myths, apocalypse, and extraterrestrials. Sonic Monolith is the story of higher beings with a malevolent plan to release a dangerous subspecies of an ape with the ultimate goal of re-propagating the galaxy.

Not wanting to be constricted by the standards of the genre, Ape Vermin goes to great lengths to ensure their live performances are powerful, epic and interesting. Brett further explains what can be expected when taking in the live band: “I like to put my guitar down, while our bass player keeps the thunder rolling, and let the feedback ring out, or I will have a riff looped in a looper pedal, and I will do tribal style percussion with my drummer.” Still a fledgling band, Ape Vermin continues to push their limits as musicians, and test different styles, genres and influence to further develop their sound. Focusing on sludge and doom, Ape Vermin likes to keep things spicy with nods to black metal and prog. With future plans to tour, and release more albums as well a comic book, Ape Vermin is looking forward to the future.

0 EPK – Empress – Crawl (single) (2018)

July 27, 2018
by Asher
· Empress · EPKs

Empress – Crawl (single) (2018)

For Fans of Delain, Amaranthe, Trees of Eternity, Evanescence, Tristania, Lacuna Coil

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Bandcamp

Publicist – Jon Asher – ashermedia(@)gmail.com

“Les amateurs de metal mélodique ne seront pas déçus!” – Metal Universe

“Une bonne production et une nouvelle formation à découvrir absolument!” – Metal Universe

Track Listing:

Crawl (4:53) (single)

Single Credits:
• All songs performed by: Empress
• All songs written by: Eddy Levitsky and Karina Charbonnier
• Produced by: Eddy Levitsky
• Mixed by: Jon Howard
• Mastered by: Jon Howard
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Discography:

2018 – Crawl (single)
2017 – Your Prize (single)

SHORT BIO:

Powerful atmosphere and soaring vocals: Empress is quickly becoming a new standard in female-fronted metal. Mixing heavy, modern melodies with authentic, relatable lyrics, Empress combines Eddy Levitsky’s (Hollow) original music with Karina Charbonnier’s unique vocal talent to create a distinctive approach to melodic metal. With influences ranging from Delain and Lacuna Coil to Insomnium and Evergrey, each individual song also features a notable guest musician who brings his own experience and influence to the sound – making every song unique.

Mostly an online project, Empress’ focus is sharing their music and love of music with the world.

Empress’ first single “Your Prize” is available for FREE download and streaming on Bandcamp here, which will be followed by their sophomore track “Crawl” planned for release Summer 2018.

Eddy Levitsky adds: “Your Prize’s most powerful instrument is Karina’s haunting voice – a voice that soars above the screaming guitar solos and heavy drums to end on the most epic of crescendos.”

LONG BIO:

Empress is spearheaded by the imperious Karina Charbonnier and her powerful, melancholic soprano voice. Following a desire to write her own music and lyrics, Karina brought Empress to life by working with celebrated guest talents in the Quebec metal scene such as Tommy Mckinnon (ex-Augury), Fred Riverin (I Legion), Sebastien Ladouceur (Our Darkest Days) and releasing several singles.

0 EPK – Sven Gali – Kill The Lies (2018) (single)

July 6, 2018
by Asher
· EPKs · Sven Gali

Sven Gali – Kill The Lies (2018) (single)

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

Release Date: June 10, 2018

Label: Self Release

Release Date: June 10, 2018
Label: Self Release

Distribution: CD Baby

Track Listing:

Kill The Lies (single) (3:38)

Song Credits:
• All songs performed by: Sven Gali
• All songs written by: Sven Gali
• Produced by: David Bendeth
• Mixed by: David Bendeth
• Mastered by: Ted Jensen, Sterling Sound
• Members of SOCAN
• Single is CANCON (M, A and L)

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

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

Discography:
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 Hamilton and Niagara Falls, Ontario, Sven Gali brought the 80’s and 90’s hard rock/metal wave home to Canada. They delivered their high-energy live show from St. Johns to Victoria, and across the USA and Europe for the next 9 years.

Twenty-five years after their self-titled debut album went Gold (50,000 units) in Canada, they are back with a monster new song called “Kill The Lies” recorded with legendary producer David Bendeth (Paramore, Breaking Benjamin, Bring Me The Horizon). Released on June 10th, 2018 the new track is no throwback to the 90’s, but a heavy, modern rock song that doesn’t look back.

In support and to commemorate the 25th anniversary of their self-titled debut, the band will play select Canadian tour dates in July and August 2018, and then head to the UK to headline the Hull Metal Festival in September alongside LA Guns. More shows on both sides of the pond will follow.

Show Dates:

July 20 – London, ON – Norma Jean’s – info

July 21 – Hamilton, ON – This Ain’t Hollywood – info

July 27 – Oshawa, On – The Music Hall Concert Hall Theatre – info

Aug 9 – Sudbury, ON – The Asylum – info

Aug 10 – Ottawa, ON – The Brass Monkey – info

Sept 14 – Kingston upon Hull, UK – Welly Club Hall – Hair Metal Heaven Festival – info w/ LA Guns, H.E.A.T, Kee Marcello Band Kip Winger, Killer Dwarfs and more!

The 2018 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 1993 Juno Awards. Sven Gali went gold in Canada that year selling over 50,000 units.

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.

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.

The band toured for the next year before disbanding in 1996.

Look for more SVEN GALI in 2018.

0 EPK – Creatures – II ( EP)

June 19, 2018
by Asher
· Creatures · EPKs

Creatures – II ( EP)

For fans of Angelmaker, Carnifex, Veil of Maya, Impending Doom, Upon A Burning Body

EP Title : II
Release Date: July 20, 2018
Label: Old Haunt Records

Publicist – Jon Asher – ashermedia(@)gmail.com

Facebook | Instagram | Youtube | Bandcamp

Show Dates:
June 30 – Toronto, ON – Bovine (EP Release Party) – info
August 16 – Barrie, ON – Foxx Lounge – info w/ Kavara
August 17 – Niagara Falls, ON – Geekery Pub – info w/ Kavara
August 18 – Kingston, ON – Overtime
August 19 – Hamilton, ON – The Doors Pub – info w/ Kavara
August 20 – Brantford, ON – Our Place – info

[Download EP Cover]
[Download EP Lyrics]

EP Title: II
Release Date: July 13, 2018
Label: Old Haunt Records

Track Listing:
1.Old Style F.A (3:09)
2. What Would Rick Sanchez Do? (3:33)
3. Samara (2:37)
4. Broken Anchors (3:33)
5. (Safe Space) Triggered (3:49)
EP Length: 16:43

EP Credits:
• All songs performed by: CREATURES
• All songs written by: CREATURES
• Produced by: Nick Galati, Lucas Di Mascio
• Mixed by: Lucas Di Mascio
• Mastered by: Spectre Sound
• Album Artwork by: Cult Mansion Graphic Design
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

EP Line Up:
Nick Galati – Guitar
Rob Esposito – Vocals
Tj MacKay – Drums
Vic Borowski – Guitar
Brandon Paris – Bass

Live Band Line Up:
Nick Galati – Guitar
Rob Esposito – Vocals
Tj MacKay – Drums
Vic Borowski – Guitar
Christian Roman – Bass

Discography:
2018 – CREATURES – II (EP)
2015 – CREATURES – Self titled (EP)

Festivals:
2017 – Heatwave music fest, Seaforth, ON
2016 – Heatwave music Fest, Seaforth, ON

L-R = Christian Roman – Bass, Vic Borowski – Guitar, Rob Esposito – Vocals, Nick Galati – Guitar, Tj MacKay – Drums

SHORT BIO:

Spawned in the Toronto murk in 2015, Creatures is a group effort with a long history that intertwines the lives of numerous local bands to summon a truly devastating soundscape of unbridled chaos. Inspired by bands such as Necrophagist, Despised Icon and Thy Art Is Murder, Creatures is a 5 piece band playing heavy and catchy deathcore, taking intense sounds and mixing in small elements of extreme and black metal.

Almost immediately after forming, Creatures released a 4 track self-titled EP. A varied sampling of the musical talents from the band helped them gain the interest of fans in the local scene and they played several shows with great reception. Three years later, in 2018, they’re set to unleash their second offering Creature II EP unto the world through Old Haunt Records on July 20th. The songs reach into a large porcelain cup of topics and instead of just merely presenting their themes to their listeners, Creatures smashes the cup in their faces, making sure their themes cut deep and stay with the listeners.

LONG BIO:

The band explains how their name came into being: “We chose the name Creatures because we wanted to keep the name simple but at the same time incite a somewhat menacing image. We all really enjoy creepy/haunting imagery and felt that this name would allow for us to incorporate that into the artwork/imagery as well.”

Almost immediately after forming, Creatures released a 4 track self-titled EP. A varied sampling of the musical talents from the band helped them gain the interest of fans in the local scene and they played several shows with great reception. Taking great pride in live performances, Creatures embodies all the aspects of showmanship with high energy and audience involvement.

Three years later, in 2018, they’re set to unleash their second offering Creature II EP unto the world through Old Haunt Records on July 20th. The songs reach into a large porcelain cup of topics and instead of just merely presenting their themes to their listeners, Creatures smashes the cup in their faces, making sure their themes cut deep and stay with the listeners. Whether they are lyrics about the futility of existence with a cartoon metaphor, or the bond of brotherhood within an intense party setting, there is a message for everyone to latch onto. Regardless, the songs are a visceral insight into the band’s life.

0 EPK – A Scar For The Wicked – The Unholy (EP) (2018)

June 12, 2018
by Asher
· A Scar For The Wicked · EPKs

A Scar For The Wicked – The Unholy (EP) (2018)

For Fans of The Black Dahlia Murder, Aborted, Whitechapel, Suicide Silence, Origin

Release Date: June 29, 2018
Label: Self-Release

Publicist – Jon Asher – ashermedia(@)gmail.com

Download Band Photo | Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics

“Filled to the brim with captivating melodies and brutal precision, the band raises their own bar on the upcoming EP, and will surely twist some heads in the future.” – Metal Injection

“It’s catchy while maintaining aggression, and the melodic guitarwork is quite frequently the highlight of each track.” – Dead Rhetoric

“this EP is a real stand-out, well-varied, aggressive as fuck and loaded with metallic brilliance. ” – Merchants of air

“A Scar For The Wicked show promise, and if you’re a big fan of bands like The Black Dahlia Murder and Suicide Silence, it’s still worth checking this one out. And hey, if they tour through your area, that will be a set worth catching.” – Overdrive Music Magazine

“A Scar for the Wicked has summoned a new age of carnage, which you’ll only be able to witness following the musical decapitation performed in The Unholy.” – Rekt Chords Magazine

“Right off the bat my favorite thing about The Unholy (EP) is how it injects blackened elements into their take on, what I guess is considered, technical death metal. Riffs are relentless and there is no lack of technicality…ASFTW offers a lot on The Unholy (EP) in a short amount of time. I think every song is equally good in different ways, but if you only have time for a couple then I recommend “Evil Within” and “Born from the Grave.” 8/10 – PIG SQUEALS AND BREAKDOWNS

“This EP is a complete force of death as it ushers forth seven life draining and blood letting rituals. Through and through this is a monstrous and devastating record, one that piles you up among the rest of the cadavers once everything is all said and done. The Unholy is a savage and unhinged release that aims to drain your marrow from the very get go as it stampedes forth without warning pushing your life to the brink. ” – Cadaver Garden

“Damn! That is about all I can start off this review with. I haven’t heard a new band that I can say has instantly hooked me with their music for quite some time. A Scar For The Wicked has completely blown me away. I had never heard of this band until today when I got the chance to review their new EP The Unholy.” – Yesterdaze News

“One of Ottawa’s most promising death metal bands” – Ottawa Showbox

” A Scare For The Wicked will assault and infect anything that comes in contact with their aggressive, scathing melody with daring lyrical context, that is layered on pure attack force!” – Nataliez world

” Without a doubt and from the very beginning the duel vocalists make themselves stand out by implementing a solid mix of shrill highs and gutturals; hitting hard and quick, the two opposites occasionally find themselves entwined, as in “Silence Vile Temptress” and the spine tingling growl at the beginning of “Surrounded by Giants”. ” – Volume Sins (Review of The Necrobutcher 2014)

[EP Cover]
[EP Lyrics]

EP Title: The Unholy
Release Date: June 29, 2018
Label: Self-Release

Track Listing:
1. Born From The Grave (3:17)
2. A Place Where Death Resides (3:50)
3. The Abyss (4:35)
4. Darkness Approaches (3:16)
5. The Unholy (4:03)
6. Malformed (2:30)
7. Evil Within (4:29)
EP Length: 26:03

EPCredits:
• All songs performed by: A Scar For The Wicked
• All songs written by: Adam Semler, Nick Rodgers and Joe Lyko
• All lyrics written by: Eric Forget, Adam Semler and Joe Lyko
• Produced by: Silverwing Studios
• Mixed by: Jonathan Lefrançois-Leduc of Silverwing Studios
• Mastered by: Jonathan Lefrançois-Leduc of Silverwing Studios
• EP Artwork by: Jean-Francois Gangon

Album and Live Band Line Up:
• Guitar/Vocals: Adam Semler
• Guitar: Joe Lyko
• Drums: Nick Rodgers
• Bass: James Nopper
• Vocals: Eric Forget

Discography:
• 2012 – Scars EP
• 2014 – The Necrobutcher EP
• 2018 – The Unholy EP

Shared Stage with:
Whitechapel, Nile, Thy Art Is Murder, Born of Osiris, Fallujah, Ghost Bath, Aversions Crown, Blind Witness, Revocation, Skeletonwitch, Aegaeon, Depths of Hatred, Archspire, Chelsea Grin, Killitorous, Crimson Shadows, Kronos, Widowmaker, Sworn In, Jesse Leach (Killswitch Engage), Cryptopsy, Belphegor, Jungle Rot, Panzerfaust

Tours and Festivals:
2017 – The Dead Are Living Tour – Kingston, Hamilton, Oshawa, Sudbury, ON
2017 – Mountain Man Festival – Calabogie, ON
2014 – Ottawa Freak Fest – Ottawa, ON
2014 – Good Vibrations Music Festival – St-Eugene, ON
2013 – Unite and Ignite Festival – Ottawa, ON

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

SHORT BIO:

Born in blood, screams and agony, Adam Semler was destined to a life of tortured creations. Son of a vile temptress, silenced brutally for her crime, he slowly learned that music was the only way he could express his rage to exist. To spread this hatred, he reached out to two dangerous brothers, equally brilliant, charismatic, and evil: Joe Lyko and Ryan Keyneres. Both giants surrounded by an aura of strength, they brought to the project a dark powerful voice to be heard, and fingers of doom to torture with painful strings. Preparing for a blood ritual that would unite them forever, they were joined by James Nopper, freshly escaped from a mental institute. A real psychopath, so mad and demented, he was a perfect addition with his low waves of madness. Anxious to grow their power within this rotting universe, they decided to enlist another voice; Eric Forget was the perfect candidate. A young and twisted abnormal screaming entity, born to destroy the ears of the world with a single word. The ritual was almost complete. They only needed more rhythm to succeed in awakening the necrobutchers. From the echo of pain itself, Nick Rodgers was raised, a real technician of doom. With the twisted lineup ready, A Scar For the Wicked was poised to bring it’s sickening death metal to the unsuspecting world.

After the release of their violent demo in 2011 and their first EP “Scars” in 2012, they had reached the perfect level to unleash their first pure machiavellian hymn to the dead, bringing into this world, The Necrobutcher (2014). Their next offering, “The Unholy” will be unearthed on June 29th, 2018.

LONG BIO:

Since 2010, A Scar For The Wicked (ASFTW) has been playing fast, evil and energetic songs inspired by horror shows and films. Their favorite themes encompass zombies, demons and other evil creatures and for them, each song is executed as a short horror story accompanied by heavy music. Like most horror stories this is not for the faint of heart. There is a fair amount of gore, death and of course a very evil atmosphere which is reflected in the band name as well.

Guitarist Joe Lyko explains:

“A Scar For The Wicked was really a twist on “people marking the houses of where witches live, a mark on them so people knew to stay away, a scar as we like to look at it”, I always liked the idea of thinking everytime we play we leave a mark on the crowd, something to remind them of us.”

Fueled by a passion to bringing horrific and grotesque sounds to their fans, ASFTW have clawed their way through the Eastern Canadian metal scene originally following the guidelines of deathcore, going for a very heavy sound. As the other members began imprinting their influences on the music it saw a evolution into a less core based death metal, melodic but still remaining brutal and disgustingly evil. Every show is an energized experience with ASFTW, complete with face melting heaviness and a dark and evil atmosphere.

0 EPK – Kill No Albatross – Speak True Evil (EP) (2018)

June 7, 2018
by Asher
· EPKs · Kill No Albatross

Kill No Albatross – Speak True Evil (EP) (2018)

For fans of Alter Bridge, Breaking Benjamin, Fightstar, Stone Sour, Thrice, Big Wreck, Three Days Grace

EP Title: Speak True Evil
Release Date: July 13, 2018
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: TBA

Publicist – Jon Asher – ashermedia(@)gmail.com

KillNoAlbatross.com | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Soundcloud | Youtube | Last.FM | CBC Music | Sonicbids

Bandcamp | iTunes | Spotify | Google Play

“Speak True Evil” – Eastern Canadian Fall Tour 2018
Sept 27 – Capital Complex – Fredericton, NB
Sept 28 – Baba’s Lounge – Charlottetown, PEI
Sept 29 – The Well – Miramichi, NB
Sept 30 – Little Vegas Showroom – Sydney, NS
Oct 2 – Plan B Lounge – Moncton, NB
Oct 3 – Gus’ Pub – Halifax, NS
Oct 5 – The Commune – New Glasgow, NS
Oct 13 – L’Escogriffe (Basin Fest) – Montreal, QC
Oct 14 – Cafe Dekcuf – Ottawa, ON
Oct 18 – Wuddup Dog – Cambridge, ON
Oct 19 – Overtime Sports Bar – Kingston, ON
Oct 24 – Doors Pub – Hamilton, ON
Oct 26 – Champz Sportz Grille – Chatham, ON
Oct 31 – DSTRCT – Guelph, ON

“Kill No Albatross combines many styles of rock and metal to create something fairly unique, as elements of everyone from Big Wreck and Alter Bridge pop in, but so do Deftones and even Fightstar. If this new track (Apex Predator) is any indication, it appears Kill No Albatross are branching out in unique directions once again. ” – New Fury Media

“Speak True Evil will leave the listener satiated with its blend of genres and expertly crafted flow… Speak True Evil is a sign that rock’s not dead, it’s just gotten more diverse.” – Monkey Goose Magazine

“Playing songs from their impressive ep Speak True Evil, the band was too much for the Café Dekcuf stage. Guitarist Josh Pinkey refused to be limited by the stage and took off into the crowd choosing instead to play onto amps or wherever he could to try and engage the crowd.” – Splice Magazine (Ottawa TechFest)

“‘Speak True Evil’, the new E.P from Canadian alt-rockers Kill No Albatross, is a snapshot of a band on the rise. Mixing elements of prog, rock and alternative metal music, the E.P. is a perfect entry point for listeners looking for a fresh take on the genre.” – Happy Metal Geek

“Straddling that line between hard rock and metal can be a tough proposition but it can be done. This is where Kill No Albatross find their sound but they bring an alternative slant to the table to tone the metal side down and make it one cohesive sound rather than two horses pulling in opposite directions.” – Moshville Times

“Where their debut could be described as ‘Alter Bridge’ meets ‘Arcane Roots’; ‘Speak True Evil’ brings in additional elements of ‘AFI’ and ‘Rise Against’ as the post-hardcore influences are brought significantly further into the foreground. Opening track ‘Seven Tools’ sets the tone for what is to come with a much heavier track than we have heard in their earlier output that packs a serious punch with groggy riffs, gang vocal chants and a breakdown that hits you like a jackhammer; but this is just a teaser to ease you in before ‘Apex Predator’ kicks in for what is undeniably the heaviest song that this band have ever recorded. ” – Spirit Level Magazine

“The Sky Is On Fire’ is quite ethereal in the instrumentation, with acoustic and electric guitar parts complementing each other well. It is more of a ballad than the first two tracks, but at the breakdown there is definitely an Alter Bridge feel to the guitar playing, and I really like the track. The vocals of Kyle Collins are quite emotive, and he has a good range (although not that of Myles Kennedy). ” – Uber Rock

“Wasting no time on “Seven Tools,” the opening track off their latest EP Speak True Evil, Kill No Albatross dive right into chiptune guitar leads, complex time signatures and animated percussion…Speak True Evil goes by quick, but it leaves a lasting mark.” – Get Exposed Music

“Kill No Albatross has a meticulously crafted collection of progressive alternative rock with a strong cerebral element… they can seriously play.” – Ric Taylor, VIEW Magazine

“A sound I really enjoy… I love the song Eos.” – Mat Boiselle, 102.1 The Edge & 91.7 Erin Radio

“Ontario’s Kill No Albatross is one of “those” bands. The rockers are well on their way to getting some early attention… certainly a band you will want to keep an eye on in the near future.” – Bradley Dillon, The New Fury

“Ferocity and sweetness. Kill No Albatross will coax you in with soothing vocal melodies and destroy you with high energy riffage. Five-piece powerhouse rockers. Animal friendly.” – Keegan Ro, MAT/H Magazine

“Attention grabbing tracks that can gain the respect of discerning music critics while still grabbing the ears of more casual rock fans… Lost in Darkness and Distance already shows the band has a grip on balancing the heavy, the melodic, and the technical.” – Donte Montgomery, The Haystack Music

[Download EP Lyrics]

EP Title: Speak True Evil
Release Date: July 13, 2018
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: TBA

Track Listing:
1. Seven Tools (3:51)
2. Apex Predator (3:18)
3. Sky On Fire (4:09)
4. Void (4:05)
EP Length: 15:25

EP Credits:
• All songs performed by: Kill No Albatross
• All songs written by: Kill No Albatross
• Produced by: Wayne Cochrane
• Mixed by: Wayne Cochrane
• Mastered by: Scott Lake
• Album Artwork by: Niall Grant
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

EP Band Line Up:
Kyle Collins – Vocals, Guitar
Alexander Sallas – Drums, Piano, Auxiliary Percussion
Josh Pinkney – Guitar, Knives
Alex Crosty – Guitar
Liam Kilawee – Bass

Live Band Line Up:
Kyle Collins – Vocals
Alexander Sallas – Drums
Josh Pinkney – Guitar, Backup Vocals
Alex Crosty – Guitar, Backup Vocals
Glenn Scott – Bass

Discography:
2018 – Speak True Evil – EP
2017 – Lost in Darkness and Distance – EP

Shared stage with:
SECRETS, Jupiter Hollow, Picturesque Double Experience, Tropidelic, CrUtCH, Falset, Redundant, The Maysides, Atlas: Empire, Her Majesty The King, Guided by Senses, Farewell Winters, Basement Revolver, Kaiser Solziem, That Dirty Racket, L.I.F.T., The Author, Lighterburns, The Frame Defect, Rose Cora Perry & The Truth Untold, Bodhi Jar, Dawn Vally, Otherwives, Cold Shoulder, Avenue Inn

Festivals:
2018 – Vans Warped Tour – Toronto, ON
2018 – Sound of Music Festival – Burlington, ON
2018 – Canadian Music Week – Hamilton, ON

SHORT BIO

For wildly energetic Burlington-based rock band Kill No Albatross, intertwining the accessibility of rock, the technicality of prog, and the energy of hardcore is the name of the game. Through intelligent songwriting, creative guitar work, and emotional intensity, they meld dynamic, bold, bewitching sounds to create no holds barred rock.

In 2017, Kill No Albatross released their debut EP, “Lost in Darkness and Distance”, and will follow it up with another EP, “Speak True Evil”, in 2018. Going forward, the band intends to expand the dynamics of their unique sound, traversing softer and heavier territory without compromising the meticulousness they are becoming known for. They are excited to develop as a band and tour their home country, bringing their signature wild energy to every stage along the way – just hold on for the ride.

LONG BIO

Guitarists Josh Pinkney and Alex Crosty and drummer Alexander Sallas had played together for several years before deciding to recruit a singer and, subsequently, finding Kyle Collins. After deciding on the name Kill No Albatross, releasing their first EP (Lost in Darkness and Distance, May 2017), and touring that year, bassist Glenn Scott came into the fold to complete the lineup.

Alexander explains the origin of the band name: “In Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, the character Robert Walton writes of departing to an unexplored region – ‘the land of mist and snow’ – and promises that, while there, he will ‘kill no albatross’. This itself is an allusion to Coleridge’s Rime of the Ancient Mariner, wherein the titular mariner crossbows an albatross, which is symbolic for good luck, thereby cursing his ship. To ‘kill no albatross,’ then, is to avoid blaming the innocent. It is also – to borrow another idiom – to leave no stone unturned; to not ‘shoot down’ opportunity. Further, on a more overt level, it affirms respect for the natural world.”

For Kill No Albatross, 2018 started with a bang, as the band performed as part of Canadian Music Week and attained coveted slots on the Vans Warped Tour and Burlington’s Sound of Music Festival. That momentum will continue when their next EP, “Speak True Evil”, is released later in the year. Going forward, the band intends to expand the dynamics of their unique sound, traversing softer and heavier territory without compromising the meticulousness they are becoming known for. They are excited to develop as musicians and a band and tour their home country, bringing their signature wild energy to every stage along the way – just hold on for the ride.

0 EPK – Dizzy Mystics – Wanderlost (2019)

June 5, 2018
by Asher
· Dizzy Mystics · EPKs

Dizzy Mystics – Wanderlost (2019)

For fans of Tool, Primus, Frank Zappa, Steely Dan, Yes, Torche, Pink Floyd

Label: Self-Release
Distribution: CD Baby
Release Date: May 3, 2019

Bandcamp | iTunes | Amazon | CD Baby

“It is clear that Dizzy Mystics may be among the most unique of the vibrant Canadian rock scene to be delivering tracks that will leave fans of classic, progressive, and 90’s alternative rock excited for what is to come.” – Canadian Beats

“Mysticism aside, this band certainly got the “dizzy” part right! The Winnipeg rock quartet Dizzy Mystics offer up a staggering musical concoction that, considering its progressive and experimental flair, is surprisingly radio-ready. Think Rush and Primus drinking wine with Tool before dropping acid with Frank Zappa and checking out a jazz club with Steely Dan. Dizzying, right? Jokes aside, frontman Kyle Halldorson, guitarist Alexandre Joyal, drummer Jeffrey Laird and bassist Aaron Bacon have some serious chops and, with the right amount of work, gigging and outside help, this Canadian act has the potential to not only see the end of the tarmac, but to also take off!” – PureGrainAudio

“Diamond Duller moves and grooves, in interesting rhythms, changing from one beat to another, shifting and clanging with energy. The vocals bring about high energy and ensure the listener is hooked from the get go.” – The Median Man

“The quartet has crafted a psychedelic and progressive sound upon many others including melodic hard rock and funk. The band takes you through a heavy and psychedelic trip on their latest single.” – Technical Music Review

“If you are a fan of adventurous, very rhythmic prog rock then you’ve come to the right place at Dizzy Mystics. I have a candidate for my year list.” – Rockportaal.nl

“This (Wanderlost) is a fantastic release. A contender for my end of year lists.” – Uber-rock.co.uk

“By the time they reached the end of their set, they were in a full assault of all our senses, and you didn’t know whether to jump or ride it out. I say let go to Hell and back!” – Blast Toronto

L-R – Robert Schau (drums), Kyle Halldorson (vocals, guitar, mandolin), Alexandre Joyal (guitar, vox), Aaron Bacon (bass, vox). Photography – Jess Mann Photography

Dizzy Mystic Soup for the Rocker’s Soul;
2 cups Psychedelic
2 cups Progressive
1 cup Hearty 70’s Metal
3 tbsp. Jazz
3 tbsp. Funk
2 tbsp. Folk
Soul to taste
A pinch of Celtic Pepper is optional
(Measurements of each ingredient are subject to change for each batch made)

Dizzy Mystics are a band based out of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
As the recipe implies, rock music is the spoon that stirs the soup, and no genre (or spice) is out of the question.
Filling out the sonic experience is Kyle Halldorson (Vocals, Guitar, Mandolin), Alexandre Joyal (Guitar, Backing Vox), and Aaron Bacon (Bass, Backing Vox), and Robert Schau (Drums).

Awarded as 2020’s “Metal / Hard Music Artist of the year” through the Western Canadian Music Awards, the journey is just beginning for Dizzy Mystics. They are currently at work on the follow-up album to 2019’s “Wanderlost”, which saw them garner acclaim through publications and reviews around the world. Aside from gathering a buzz in the Winnipeg music scene, that buzz has carried them through multiple Canadian tours, including 3 showcase slots at 2019’s Canadian Music Week in Toronto.

Expect a dynamically diverse, tastefully complex, and energetic dose of adventurous hard rock with feet moving rhythmic swagger, and stargazing melodies.

Album Title: Wanderlost
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: CD Baby
Release Date: May 3, 2019

Track Listing:
1. Letter (4:42)
2. Shindigjig (4:43)
3. Fallasophy (5:02)
4. The Frequent See, Consistent Seas (2:50)
5. The Anti-Dream (5:09)
6. The Scythe Pendulum Swing (7:33)
7. Diamond Duller (4:56)
8. Jaunter (5:26)
9. Rester (Analog Chameleon) (5:01)
10. Wanderlost (11:09)
Album Length: 56:36

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by: Dizzy Mystics
• All songs written by: Kyle Halldorson
• Produced by: Kyle Halldorson
• Mixed by: John Paul Peters (Private Ear Recording (Winnipeg))
• Mastered by: Ed Brooks (Resonant Mastering (Seattle))
• Album Artwork by: Ben Duncan https://benduncanmadeit.com
• Members of SOCAN and ASCAP
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Recording Line Up:
Kyle Halldorson (all vocals, guitars, bass, mandolin, assorted percussion, lyrics, music, songwriter)
Aaron Edgar (all drums)
Gerrit Delaquis, Kelsey Halldorson, Paula DaCosta (guest vocals on track 07-Diamond Duller)

Live Band Line Up:
Kyle Halldorson (lead vocal, guitars, mandolin)
Alexandre Joyal (guitar, backup vocal)
Aaron Bacon (bass, backup vocal)
Robert Schau (drums, backup vocal)

Shared stage with: Dreadnaut, Chernobyl Wolves, Whiskey Talks, Attilan, Dome, Quoth the Sun, Kindred Crows, The 1221, Taylor Janzen, Giant Skellies, Two Crows for Comfort, Colour by Numbers, Ponemah, Island in the Sky, Nuclear Oath, Marwood Way, My Tin Hat, Sweet Grass, Conniferius, Lutra Lutra, Sweet Talker, Bullrider, Those Liabilities, Take It or Leave It, The Love Tongues, Nugget, 18 Rabbit, Bad House Highway, June Killing Stones, Gerrit Delaquis, King Buffalo, Bodhi Jar, Jupiter Hollow, One in the Chamber, Paper Parachutes, Amadians, Deep Dark Cave, Odder than the Otters, Forest Pilots, L.A. Witch, Rusty, Madchild, King Bull

Tour and Festivals:

2018 – Dizzy Mystics “Enter Ontario Tour”
2017 – “The ‘Berta Firta Alberta Tour” (AB)

0 EPK – Lords of the Trident – Shadows From The Past (2018)

May 28, 2018
by Asher
· EPKs · Lords of The Trident

Lords of the Trident – Shadows From The Past (2018)

For fans of Dream Evil, Unleash the Archers, Iron Maiden, Dio

Release Date: August 24, 2018
Label: Junko Johnson
Distribution: Tunecore

Publicist – Jon Asher – ashermedia(@)gmail.com

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“Overall this album keeps the fighting spirit alive and well! The band is tight, the sound and production quality of the album is solid; The Lords Of The Trident is truly a band on the rise, and there is no question as to why.”- OVERDRIVE Music Magazine

“Shadows From The Past is a fun and well-executed power metal album.” – Heavy Music Headquarters

“Lords of the Trident epitomize the spirit of USPM on “Death Dealer,” with fast and exciting riffs, strong tenor vocals, and a healthy dose of fantasy nerdery.” – Toilet ov Hell

“Clearly influenced by power metal in the vein of Helloween, Hammerfall, and countless others that could be named here, LOTT are clearly in their element performing power metal and killing it. Fang, aka Ty Christian, has a quality to his voice that reminds me so much of Niklas Isfeldt, formerly of Dream Evil. But when he has to, he can get up there and really wail away with all the confidence in the world. Guitarists Asian Metal and Killius Maximus have got the power metal chops down perfectly. With the twin melodies they create and then the speed, it’s clear these guys can play the instruments with more than an amateur proficiency. 4/5” – Greg Watson, Maximum Metal (January 15th, 2017)

“Overall, Lords Of The Trident’s third album is a solid alternative to those who feel that the power metal legends such as Helloween have faltered on their most recent efforts. The Plan Of Attack EP may be the band’s strongest moment but Frostburn is a strong recommendation to those still unfamiliar with the band’s methods of madness. One can sense that the band is on the cusp of something truly inspiring.” – Chris Latta, Psychic Shorts (December 7th, 2015)

“Fans of power metal should definitely checkout Frostburn. The record is very energetic as well as very well made. Lords of the Trident as a band have a lot of character, talent and seeing what they do after this could be quite interesting. 8/10” – Steven Lornie, Demonzone (October 13th, 2015)

“Instead of trying to become copycats of a great band of the 80’s, they fuse their influences and filter them under their own personality and because of that they manage to craft a sound that is old school and yet has fresh ideas and a certain originality. I think that I won’t exaggerate if I say that “Frostburn” is one of the best heavy metal releases of this year that shine because of their maturity, enthusiasm and creativity. 8.5/10” – Nick “Verkaim” Parastatidis, Behind The Veil Webzine (August 5th, 2015)

“Track to track, the Lords of the Trident’s Frostburn is nothing short of a power metal masterpiece that everyone who enjoys this type of music needs to hear. That being said, the album lives up to the band’s claim of being “the most metal band on earth” and given time, they just might rival the long reigning kings of metal themselves. Look out Manowar, the Lords of the Trident are coming for your crown. 10/10” – Brett Kihlmire, Metal At the Gates (July 12th, 2015)

“Firmly rooted at the cross section between US power metal and traditional, NWoBHM influenced heavy metal of the 80s, opener “Knights of Dragon’s Deep” unites all of the band’s trademarks and strengths in one nice package, great vocals, a gripping chorus, tight riffing and dynamics, lending the band the authenticity many bands strive for, but ultimately fail. And this seriousness definitely shows that there is a lot of substance hidden underneath these costumes and attire.

The super harmonic guitars of “The Longest Journey” make it an insanely catchy, but never shallow, track, whereas “Winds of the Storm” and “Den of the Wolf” add a few notches and closing “Shattered Skies” is a grandiosely epic and very dynamic closer to finish off an album that shows a few dryer spells in the middle (from “Manly Witness” to “Kill to Die” to be precise), where they have good moments and ideas, but don’t quite manage to keep things up at the same level. 7.5/10″ – Alex Melzer, The Metal Observer (June 1st, 2015)

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[Download Album Lyrics]

Album Title: Shadows from the Past
Release Date: August 25, 2018
Label: Junko Johnson (Self-released), Killer Metal (EU – pending)
Distribution: Tunecore

North America Release Track Listing:
1.Death Dealer
2. Zero Hour
3. Tormentor
4. Burn It Down (With Fire) Feat. Brittney Slayes (Unleash The Archers)
5. Figaro
6. The Party Has Arrived
7. Brothers of Cain
8. Reaper’s Hourglass
9. Chasing Shadows
10. The Nameless Tomb
11. The Gatekeeper

The Japan special edition release will have two additional tracks:

12. Cross The Line
13. Desolation (Haze of the Battlefield Pt. 2)

And Patreon backers will receive an extra exclusive track entitled “Fire and Sand”.

Album Credits
• All songs performed by: Lords of the Trident
• All songs written by: Lords of the Trident
• Produced by: Lords of the Trident
• Mixed by: Doug Olson
• Mastered by: Dan Harjung
• Album Artwork by: Andreas Zafeiratos
• Member ASCAP

Album Band / Live Line Up:
Asian Metal (Lead Guitar)
Pontifex Mortis (Lead Bass)
Fang VonWrathenstein (Lead Vocals)
Baron Taurean Helleshaar (Lead Guitar)
Master Hercule “Herc” Schlagzeuger (Lead Drums)

Discography:
2018 – Shadows From The Past (Junko Johnson)
2015 – Re:Quests EP (Junko Johnson)
2015 – Frostburn  (Junk Johnson (NA) / Killer Metal Records (EU))
2013 – A Very Lords of the Trident Christmas EP  (Junko Johnson)
2013 – Plan of Attack EP  (Junko Johnson)
2011 – Chains on Fire  (Junko Johnson)
2009 – Death or Sandwich (Junko Johnson)

Shared Stage with:
Steel Panther, Helloween, Cage, Unleash The Archers, 3 Inches of Blood, Skeletonwitch, Crimson Shadows, Psychostick, Sleepytime Gorilla Museum, Puddle of Mudd, Mushroom Head, Saliva, Fuel, Of Montreal
Full list of every band here: http://mothershabooboo.com/lottu/shows/previous-conquests/

Tour and Festivals:
2018 – NYDM Spring Bash – Milwaukee, WI
2018 – Mead & Metal Fest – Madison, WI
2017 – Rock N Skull Fest – Peoria, IL
2017 – Mad with Power Fest – Madison, WI
2017 – Mass Evacuation Fest – Superior, WI
2017 – Between The Waves Fest – Madison, WI
2016 – Powerfest – Cincinnati, OH
2016 – Mead & Metal Fest – Madison, WI
2015 – Midwest Metal Anthem Fest – Chicago, IL
2015 – Maybash – Rio, WI
2015 – Powerfest – Cincinnati, OH
2014 – Summerfest – Milwaukee, WI
2014 – Warriors of Metal Fest – Columbus, OH
2013 – Maybash – Rio, WI
2013 – Ragnarokkr Fest – Chicago, IL
2012 – Savagefest – Appleton, WI
2012 – Bratfest – Madison, WI
2012 – Maybash – Rio, WI
2012 – Mudfest – Eagle River, WI
2011 – Loud and Proud Fest – Kimberly, WI
2011 – Warriors of Metal Fest – Kirkersville, OH
2011 – Maybash – Rio, WI
2011 – Bratfest – Madison, WI
2010 – GRAMPSfest – Madison, WI
2010 – Warriors of Metal Fest – Chillicothe, OH
2010 – Maybash – Rio, WI
2010 – Mifflin Street Fest – Madison, WI

Music Placements:
2018 – Coffee Crisis PC game

Corporate sponsors / Artist Endorsements:
Bos Meadery
Rokker Vodka
Wheelhouse Whiskey

Top L-R Lords of the Trident Current Line Up

Master Hercule “Herc” Schlagzeuger (Lead Drums) | Baron Taurean Helleshaar (Lead Guitar) | Fang VonWrathenstein (Lead Vocals) | Asian Metal (Lead Guitar) | Pontifex Mortis (Lead Bass)

Photo Credit – Mary Sweeney

A true spectacle to be witnessed, LORDS OF THE TRIDENT is a daring adventure metal quintet that has been delighting their audiences and fans all over the world for ten years. To continue on their epic quest of bringing spectacular and entertaining metal to global fans these power metal warriors will be unleashing their 7th album “Shadows From The Past” on August 24th. The album features 11 adventurous heavy metal tracks for its North American release, which includes guest vocals from Unleash The Archers Brittney Slayes on “Burn It Down (With Fire)” plus 2 bonus tracks “Cross The Line” and “Desolation (Haze of the Battlefield Pt. 2)” for its Japanese special edition along with Patreon backers receive an extra exclusive track entitled “Fire and Sand”.

Vocalist Fang VonWrathenstein comments on the album:

“This album is our most ambitious musical work to date, and the first album with our new members Baron Helleshaar and Master Herc. Fans who have been with us for a while will notice that our new songs are a bit more complex, and our songwriting continues to mature. The new songs are definitely still Lords songs, but explore some new musical themes. I believe the new album will be our strongest offering yet, and contain some songs that are sure to be fan favorites going forward.”

“Shadows From The Past” was supported by a kickstarter campaign that went live on June 1st and ended on June 29th. During that month, the band’s fans helped them surpass their goals to raise over $11,000 for the release. The band offered multiple packages and rewards that included merch, lessons from band members, festival tickets, private concerts and a copy of the video game Coffee Crisis that the band has partnered with to feature one of their songs for one of the levels along with band members as NPCs (non-playable characters).

Since climbing out of a volcano in 2008, shrouded in metal and ash, LORDS OF THE TRIDENT have gone to battle on many stages across the USA, playing and and headlining a plethora of festivals and have an admirable arsenal of recordings in their inventory.

The fiery party of five talented musicians have spent the last 10 years gleefully drinking ale while performing alongside other revered bands such as Helloween, Unleash the Archers and 3 Inches of Blood. While creating their music is largely a group endeavour, The Baron has been leading the charge for the band’s musical evolution.

Vocalist Fang elaborates: “The Baron has extensive background in songwriting and music theory, so one of the first things he did after joining the band was figure out what sort of song motifs we hadn’t explored. Once he came to us with this list, we dove headfirst into unexplored territory which allowed our songwriting and musical skill to grow quite significantly.”

Their live shows include medieval costumes, pyrotechnics, confetti cannons, guitars set ablaze, and of course, excellent technical musicianship challenge the standard for how live music should be experienced. Citing influences such as Iron Maiden, Scar Symmetry and Judas Priest, and embracing lyrical themes inspired by great battles, conquests, dragon-fightin, virtual reality, and out-of-control robots LotT dish out face-melting power that is enjoyed by fans of all races and classes.

THE LORDS OF THE TRIDENT have released three full albums: “Death or Sandwich” (2009)(Junko Johnson), “Chains on Fire” (2011) (Junko Johnson), “Frostburn” (2015) (Junko Johnson (NA)/Kill Metal Records (EU)), three EPs: “Plan of Attack” (2013) (Junko Johnson), “A Very Lords of the Trident Christmas” (2014) (Junko Johnson), “Re:Quests” (2015) (Junko Johnson), and two live DVDs, along with numerous compilation singles.

Music Videos:

– “Knights of Dragon’s Deep” – Frostburn (2015): https://youtu.be/g7Bg2ZxSXug

– “Light This City” – Frostburn (2015): https://youtu.be/CPdwj-IuYBY

– “Winds of the Storm” – Frostburn (2015): https://youtu.be/ANouZi7L6g4

– “Complete Control” – Plan of Attack (2013): http://youtu.be/r7L8vBfbW40

– “Chains on Fire” – Chains on Fire (2011) : https://youtu.be/nuzxuKbVngM

– “Face of the Enemy” – Chains on Fire (2011): https://youtu.be/Y8yKa_7FxlI

– “Shine on Me” – Re:Quests (2015): https://youtu.be/OdDiI_QFtoA

– “Djiva (Beyoncé’s “Diva” cover)” – Re:Quests (2015): https://youtu.be/REA2plhb434

– Nessun Dorma Metal Cover (2018) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yiq0T5N7Xs

– CD release 2013 full show – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q2C2znY-ZWw

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