Category: Music News

0 Rockshots Records – DYING AWKWARD ANGEL Returns with “The Fallen,” A Powerful Glimpse Into New Album “The Missing Frame”

February 24, 2026
by Asher
· Dying Awkward Angel · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 24, 2026

DYING AWKWARD ANGEL Returns with “The Fallen,” A Powerful Glimpse Into New Album “The Missing Frame”

Italian melodic death metallers Dying Awkward Angel unveil their new single “The Fallen”, a track that fully embodies the band’s identity and sonic direction.

Taken from the album “The Missing Frame”, released via Rockshots Records, “The Fallen” represents the essence of Dying Awkward Angel’s sound: the cold precision of Swedish melodic death metal fused with the raw aggression of American thrash and death metal, delivered with a modern and uncompromising approach.

Formed in 1998 in Turin by guitarist and main composer Edoardo Demuro, the band has built a solid reputation within the underground metal scene, sharing the stage with acts such as Decapitated, Impaled Nazarene, Necronomicon, Forgotten Tomb, and Node. Over the years, they have developed a distinctive style rooted in the Gothenburg tradition while maintaining a strong and personal identity.

With “The Missing Frame”, the band pushed their sound further than ever before, faster, heavier, and more direct, described by the band themselves as “a brutal and honest cooperation between us all.”

“The Fallen” captures the album’s core themes of duality, control, and inner conflict, translating them into a track that is both melodic and relentless.

“Imagine an old and charismatic boss who says: I spoiled my children…but they talk instead of listening,” adds the band.

A reflection on authority, legacy, and the moment when control slips away.

Recorded at Bottleneck Studios in Turin and produced by the band, “The Missing Frame” stands as a powerful statement of intent, balancing tradition and evolution within the melodic death metal genre.

Recommended for fans of At The Gates, Carcass, and Dark Tranquillity, listen to “The Fallen” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aehAJlkkW-g

Add to your Spotify Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/5SpG2i3qgkqlAIZnbP1pWJ

CD ORDER “The Missing Frame” – https://rockshots.eu/TheMissingFrameCD

Previous Singles:

Music Video – The Inner Paradox – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XPoiysCBU2M

9.99 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cAiEvJ3rpvE

Music Kills – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1JtD-Fhte_w

Track Listing:
1. The Ecstasy of God (Instrumental)
2. Black Waves
3. The Fallen
4. Music Kills
5. 9.99
6. Raptus
7. YOU MUST DIE!
8. Blinded
9. Skin and Bones
10. The Inner Paradox
11. Out of Mind (R’lyeh)
12. A Promise
13. The Missing Frame (Instrumental)

Line-up:
Michele Spallieri: Vocals
Demuro Edoardo: Guitars,
Lorenzo Asselli: Guitars
Luca Pellegrino: Drums
Davide Onida: Bass Guitar

More info: https://www.rockshots.eu | http://www.dyingawkwardangel.com | https://www.instagram.com/dyingawkwardangel_official/

ABOUT:

Dying Awkward Angel is an Italian melodic death metal band formed in 1998 by guitarist Edoardo Demuro and drummer Ivan Longo. Influenced by the ferocity and melody of the ‘90s extreme metal scene, drawing from the Gothenburg sound as well as UK and US death and thrash metal, the band quickly developed a distinctive style that blends raw aggression, dark atmospheres, and introspective lyricism.

After two well-received demos (Dying Awkward Angel, 2002, and Ghost at the Spine, 2004), the band released their first full-length, “Waiting for Punishment,” in 2013, followed by the EP “Madness Rising” (2015), showcasing a more mature and dynamic approach to songwriting. In 2018, Dying Awkward Angel released “Absence of Light” through Rockshots Records / Extreme Metal Music, gaining praise from international press and expanding their reach across Europe, the USA, and Japan.

Having shared the stage with acts like Decapitated, Impaled Nazarene, Necronomicon, Forgotten Tomb, Keno,s and Node, the band is known for delivering uncompromising live performances and intense musicality.

In 2024 and 2025, the singles “The Magical World of the Dead“, “Music Kills“, and “9.99” marked the band’s powerful return, leading up to the release of their new album “The Missing Frame“, due out on August 22nd, 2025, via Rockshots Records. This new chapter reflects a more focused and violent sonic identity—one that remains faithful to the Swedish melodeath tradition while embracing a darker, more deliberate production.

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“Crushing riffs, sharpened intent, and zero room for mercy. The latest from Dying Awkward Angel, The Missing Frame marks a high velocity evolution for the melodeath veterans… With The Missing Frame, Dying Awkward Angel is no longer circling the genre’s perimeter. They’ve stepped into its very center of the pit and deliver an album that is sharpened, focused, and built to leave scars.” – Amplifying The Noise

“Built on years of hard-earned grit and unwavering loyalty to melodic death metal’s roots, the new material is a raging return, loaded with ferocity, feeling, and sheer metal finesse.” – Crannk

“The single ‘9.99’, for example, finally brings back some of the anthemic qualities of the intro and overall creates a good balance between modern-tinged harshness, the flair of AT THE GATES and a good dose of melodic undertones, which makes the track my personal highlight. ” – PowerMetal.de

“‘Music Kills’ reminds us of how a nice riff can make a song memorable from the first listen.”” – Italia di Metallo

“A record which… continues the maturation of the Italian quintet… which it now manages to channel in the best possible way… It is certainly the highest quality point ever reached by Dying Awkward Angel.” – Metal Italia

“There is a slight gothic and doom influence to Dying Awkward Angel’s melodic death metal from the complementing female vocals on the melancholic “Black Waves” and “Out of Mind” to the dramatic “Skin and Bones.” – Transcending the Mundane

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0 LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR FESTIVAL Announces 2026 Line Up w/ FALLUJAH, ALLEGAEON, SUMMONING THE LICH, GRAVEMASS, CRIMSON SHADOWS, EDGE OF PARADISE and more!

February 23, 2026
by Asher
· Loud As Hell Festival · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 23, 2026

LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR FESTIVAL Announces 2026 Line Up

w/ FALLUJAH, ALLEGAEON, SUMMONING THE LICH, GRAVEMASS, CRIMSON SHADOWS, EDGE OF PARADISE and more!

July 31st – Aug 2nd – Camping & Extreme Music In Alberta’s Badlands – Drumheller, AB

Hashtags #LAHXIV, #LAHOA, #LAHOA2026

LAH 2026 Lineup Spotify Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1Nbkvo4kG0ePTcsCVl2V2T

Renowned for unleashing one of Western Canada’s most punishing festival experiences, Loud As Hell Open Air Festival returns with another year of crushing performances, freak shows, burlesque acts, clinics, vendors, and, naturally, dinosaurs.

Loud As Hell isn’t just a festival; it’s a full‑throttle celebration of metal chaos. Set against the rugged expanse of Alberta’s badlands, where carved sandstone, towering hoodoos, and sweeping canyons dominate the horizon, Canada’s loudest extreme‑music gathering unveils its 2026 lineup featuring FALLUJAH, ALLEGAEON, SUMMONING THE LICH, GRAVEMASS, CRIMSON SHADOWS, STARKILL, SUPER MONSTER PARTY, MOURNING HIGH, EDGE OF PARADISE, HOG MEETS FROG, and many more.

Hosted in Drumheller, AB, from July 31st to August 2nd at the Dinosaurs Down Stampede, the festival’s 14th edition erupts with the ferocity of rising Canadian and international metal acts. This year’s roar echoes through the heart of the country’s largest dinosaur fossil beds, promising an unforgettable weekend of pure sonic devastation.

Weekend Passes (July 31 – Aug 2) are available at https://loudashell.ca/shop/

This weekend pass grants you full access to all the headbanging, moshing, and metal mayhem that Loud As Hell Open Air offers.

Headlining the closing night of the festival are progressive death‑metal titans Fallujah, who released their sixth studio album, “Xenotaph,” on June 13, 2025, through Nuclear Blast Records. The band describes it as their most technical, dynamic, and progressive work to date, expanding on the direction set by “Empyrean” while exploring a sci‑fi conceptual landscape.

Album Stream – Xenotaph – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p30_S3d5pCQ

Headlining night two of the festival, Allegaeon brings a razor‑sharp fusion of technical mastery and soaring melody to the stage. Their sound balances blistering precision with sweeping, emotionally charged songwriting. With the return of original vocalist Ezra Haynes, the band has entered one of its strongest eras yet. Their performances are known for being both surgically tight and explosively energetic. On any festival bill, Allegaeon stand out as a powerhouse of modern melodic death metal.

Music Video – Waking Circles – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u69dc2UIE-w

Headlining opening night, Summoning the Lich is a fantasy‑driven technical death‑metal band from St. Louis, known for blending high‑speed precision with rich, lore‑heavy storytelling. Their latest album, “Under the Reviled Throne,” was released in July 2024 via Prosthetic Records. The record expands their ongoing dark‑fantasy universe, raising the stakes with a more focused, streamlined approach to songwriting. They’ve spent the past three years touring extensively across the U.S., sharing stages with Allegaeon, Gorod, Inferi, Vale of Pnath, and Abigail Williams. With their explosive live energy and cinematic world‑building, Summoning the Lich brings a uniquely immersive, high‑intensity presence to the festival lineup.

Music Video – My Horrors Unending – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=25omoUK_JLI

Other band highlights on this year’s lineup are Gravemass, channeling a bleak, ritual‑driven strain of black metal that feels carved straight from the void. Their sound fuses suffocating atmosphere with an unrelenting, punishing intensity. With their debut album “This Is the Way” on the horizon this coming March 2026, the band is poised to push their occult‑laden vision into a new chapter. Onstage, they deliver a hypnotic and overwhelming presence that pulls crowds deep into their darkness. On any festival lineup, Gravemass stands out as a grim, commanding force built for total sonic devastation.

Music Video – This Is The Way – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sR9gy-AD8-E

Crimson Shadows return with their signature blend of high‑velocity melodic death metal and triumphant, power‑metal‑infused storytelling. Their newest chapter is fueled by fresh material and renewed momentum after years of silence. The band continues to sharpen their heroic, battle‑driven sound with soaring melodies and relentless speed. Their live performances erupt with anthemic energy built for massive festival crowds. Crimson Shadows stand out as a blazing force of epic, melodic fury.

Music Video – Defenders of the Crown – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9S0Wyat6Uw

Starkill continues to refine their blend of melodic death metal and symphonic power metal with renewed force. Their most recent release is the 2025 re‑recorded edition of “Be Dead or Die,” highlighting their updated sound and lineup. The band has remained active onstage, including late‑2025 U.S. shows and appearances at events like Mad With Power Fest. They’ve also teased new music in development, signaling more to come.

Music Video – Be Dead or Die – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFq9b_3E7ug

Super Monster Party explodes onto the stage with a high‑energy fusion of metal, punk, and chaotic party‑themed theatrics. Their sound is fast, fun, and unapologetically wild, built for crowds that want to move. The band’s over‑the‑top performances turn every set into a full‑blown spectacle. They’ve been gaining momentum across the underground scene with their tongue‑in‑cheek intensity and infectious hooks.

Music Video- Test Your Might – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hl9biyqu3qk

Mourning High is a rising force from Arizona/ California, blending crushing heaviness with emotional, melodic intensity. Their sound moves between atmospheric tension and hard‑hitting riffs, driven by powerful vocal dynamics. In 2025, they won the Wacken Metal Battle USA, earning a coveted performance slot at Wacken Open Air and making a strong international debut. Their live shows hit with raw energy and vulnerability, pulling crowds in immediately.

Vendetta – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=In6unLebvLM

Edge of Paradise is a cinematic hard‑rock/metal force from Los Angeles, known for their fusion of electronic textures, industrial edge, and soaring melodic hooks. Their newest album, “Prophecy,” was released in March 2025 via Napalm Records. The record marks their sixth studio release and explores themes of AI, humanity, and the looming “Singularity.” The band remains active on the road, including 2026 festival appearances such as Hyperspace Metal Festival in Vancouver and Rock in Rautheim in Germany. With their cinematic soundscapes and high‑energy performances, Edge of Paradise bring a futuristic, electrifying presence to the festival lineup.

Music Video – Falling Light – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pAxGA5ogRv0

Hog Meets Frog is an Austrian avant‑garde groove‑metal trio known for their wild fusion of funk, prog, jazz, and heavy riff‑driven chaos. Their self‑described “Frogcore” sound blends technical musicianship with eccentric humor and high‑energy theatrics. The band continues to build momentum across Europe with recent singles, new live sessions, and steady festival appearances. Their shows are unpredictable, explosive, and packed with quirky character work that turns every performance into a spectacle. Hog Meets Frog brings a vibrant, genre‑bending jolt of fun and ferocity to LAH this year.

Urbanizer – ft. Marco Minnemann (The Aristocrats, Steven Wilson, Joe Satriani) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PBE6BjOGuc

LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR 2026

Thursday, July 30 – Kick-Off Party
Art Of Attrition (Red Deer, AB)
Fall Of Earth (Edmonton, AB)
All Was Lost (Edmonton, AB)
The Judge The Juror (Edmonton, AB)

Friday, July 31
Summoning The Lich (St. Louis, MO)
Circus Of Hell – Freak Show (Peace River, AB)
Starkill (Chicago, IL)
Iron Kingdom (Vancouver, BC)
Hazzardous Material. – Burlesque (Alberta)
Edge Of Paradise (Los Angeles, CA)
W.M.D. (Vancouver, BC)
Selias (Toronto, ON)
Citizen Rage (Calgary, AB)
Supermodel Taxidermy (Fort McMurray, AB)

Saturday, August 1
Allegaeon (Fort Collins, CO)
Gravemass (Vancouver, BC)
Hazzardous Material – Burlesque (Alberta)
Super Monster Party (South Florida)
Death Toll Rising (Edmonton, AB)
Autumn Lies Buried (Clarksville, TN)
The Behest Of Serpents (Canton, OH)
Cyanate (Reno, NV)
Arrow In The Quiver (Vancouver, BC)
Brain Stem (Edmonton, AB)
Savage Blade (Nelson, BC)
Shackled To The Throne (Edmonton, AB)
Hog Meets Frog (Vienna, Austria)
Decrepitation (Edmonton, AB)

Sunday, August 2
Fallujah (San Francisco, CA)
Circus Of Hell – Freak Show (Peace River, AB)
Crimson Shadows (Toronto, ON)
Hazzardous Material – Burlesque (Alberta)
Mourning High (Arizona/California)
Scream At The Sky (Pueblo, CO)
Dawn Vally (Toronto, ON)
Red Raven Chaos (Montreal, QC)
Spectre (Winnipeg, MB)
Die Another Day (Calgary, AB)
Unsilenced (Winnipeg, MB)
Devolver (Grande Prairie, AB)
Ditch Pisser (Alberta/BC)
Hellrager (Cornwall, ON)
Reject (Reject, SK)

Since launching in 2012, Loud As Hell Open Air Festival has cemented its place as a cornerstone of Canada’s extreme music scene, showcasing hundreds of bands from across the country and around the world, save for a brief pause in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the years, the festival has hosted heavyweights like Revocation, First Fragment, Beyond Creation, Striker, Green Jelly, The Convalescence, Jungle Rot, Narcotic Wasteland, Into Eternity, Goatwhore, Fit for An Autopsy, Archspire, Unleash The Archers, Protest the Hero, AngelMaker, and many more, drawing metalheads from coast to coast for a weekend of sonic devastation.

More info:
LoudAsHell.ca
Facebook.com/LoudAsHellFestival
X: @LoudAsHellFest
Instagram: @LoudAsHellFestival
Social Media Hashtags #LAHXIV, #LAHOA, #LAHOA2026

LAH Partners:
WCMFA – Western Canadian Metal Festival Alliance
Asher Media Relations
Bravewords
Metal-Rules
Absolute Underground Mag
Ghost Cult Magazine
This Day In Metal
Valley Brewing
Canalta Hotels
Neighbours’ Corner Pub
Prairie Fire Productions Ltd
CFUV 101.9 Thrash Can
Slimbztv
High Voltage TV
Through The Looking Glass Photography
Heavy Metal A Way Of Life
QMR (Queen Metal Radio)

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What the press is saying:

“Located an hour and a half east of Calgary is the town of Drumheller, Alberta. With a population in the neighborhood of 8000 and existing smack dab in the middle of Canada’s desert and dinosaur country, it’s not a place one would immediately associate with any sort of metal scene, let alone a big-ass outdoor metal fest. But that’s where you’d be wrong. Going into its 11th year, the Loud as Hell Festival is set to roll on August 4-6th with the likes of Narcotic Wasteland, Jungle Rot and Incite headlining three days of metallic fun featuring 40 or so bands, including The Convalescence, Gorgatron, Necronomicon, Untimely Demise, Eyes of Perdition and more.” – Decibel Magazine

“Western Canada’s loudest heavy metal festival brings fans to town more known for dinos than drum solos.” – CBC Calgary

“What’s more metal than the badlands? Drumheller, AB, is known for being the dinosaur capital of the world — but it’s also the home of the Loud as Hell festival, an event celebrating none other than the loudest music known to man (and, by proxy, prehistoric reptile).” – Exclaim!

“Loud as Hell – one of Canada’s top underground metal festivals – was a metal family reunion. If you walked around the grounds, where tents covered the landscape like flowers, you would experience concert goers laughing, hugging and just enjoying the moment. The music played non-stop and the people were some of the best you’ll meet. What else do you need? If you’re a metalhead fan, mark it down for next year because this is a concert you don’t want to miss.” – Blackfalds Life

“Headbanger alert: Loud As Hell festival to ramp up the volume” – Calgary Herald

“Nevermind the bug spray and sun tan lotion, as August approaches Drumheller residents should stock up on earplugs.” – Calgary Herald

“Loud As Hell returns to the southern Alberta city for its seventh year and as its name implies, will rock the city to its core.” – Calgary Herald

“Loud as Hell has celebrated eight years in the Badlands to date, with acts from all over the world-shattering the peace and quiet of the hills in a camping and music extravaganza.” – Hanna Herald

“Drumheller with its dinosaur bones is the site of the annual Loud as Hell heavy metal festival Friday through Sunday. Dozens of the heaviest bands known to Man will be taking the stage, many of them Canadian” – Gig City

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
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0 Rockshots Records – Out Now! Symphonic Black Metal Force DAIDALOS New Album “Dante”

February 20, 2026
by Asher
· Daidalos · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 20, 2026

Out Now! Symphonic Black Metal Force DAIDALOS New Album “Dante”

The new album “Dante” by Daidalos is out today worldwide via Rockshots Records.

Founded in 2020 by multi-instrumentalist and composer Tobias Püschner, Daidalos has quickly shaped a distinctive voice in the modern symphonic black metal scene. With “Dante”, the project reaches a new level of intensity and vision, transforming the descent into Hell into a psychological journey through doubt, despair, and revelation.

Darker, more focused and more dramatic than ever, the album blends massive orchestration, razor-sharp guitars and a powerful emotional arc, creating a cinematic and immersive listening experience. Each track is built from a single piano idea inspired by Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy, evolving into a continuous black-metal audio drama in which interludes and songs merge into a cohesive descent.

Entirely composed and performed by Püschner and produced by Nahuel Lozano (Mental Cruelty), “Dante” stands as a bold and personal work that pushes the boundaries of symphonic black metal into something deeply atmospheric and narrative-driven.

For fans of: Dimmu Borgir, Fleshgod Apocalypse, Septicflesh.

New album “Dante” out now as of February 20th, 2026, from Rockshots Records.

CD Version of “Dante” – https://rockshots.eu/products/daidalos-inferno-cd
LP Version of “Dante” – https://rockshots.eu/products/daidalos-inferno-lp

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/0cwWz3bBX0Y80XhB1MMeTP

Lyric Video – Dis – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pq90saioITY

Visaulizer – Euphobia – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YP2Wg-R3VpQ

Track Listing:
1. Dante – 2:18
2. Inferno – 3:42
3. Ashes – 4:22
4. Storm – 4:05
5. Minos – 0:30
6. King – 4:00
7. Styx – 2:08
8. Gate – 0:20
9. Dis – 4:15
10. Phlegethon – 1:18
11. Malebolge – 0:40
12. Euphobia – 4:54
13. Ultimatum – 4:19
Album Length: 36:51

Daidalos Line-Up:
Tobias Püschner; Vocals, Drums, Keyboards, Orchestrations, Songwriting, Production

More info: Rockshots.eu | Instagram.com/daidalosmusic | Facebook.com/daidalosband

About: Daidalos is the brainchild of German composer and multi-instrumentalist Tobias Püschner, founded in 2020 as a creative outlet merging black metal, orchestration and conceptual storytelling. What began during the isolation of the pandemic quickly evolved into a full artistic vision – a fusion of cinematic grandeur and the emotional depth of extreme metal.

The debut album “The Expedition” (2022, Rockshots Records / Extreme Metal Music) introduced Daidalos as a unique force in the symphonic black metal scene. Entirely written and performed by Püschner, the album reimagined the tragic story of the Franklin expedition through a vast and icy soundscape where atmosphere and aggression met in perfect tension. Critics praised its originality and ambition, calling it a “symphonic extreme metal masterpiece” (AMMO Underground) and “an album that captures imagination and balances beauty with intensity” (GBHBL).

Building upon that foundation, Püschner continued to refine his approach – weaving together cinematic orchestrations, classical influences and the raw intensity of black and death metal. Collaborating with Nahuel Lozano (Mental Cruelty) on guitars, recording, and production, Daidalos shaped its signature sound: monumental, dramatic and deeply emotional.

Across his work, Püschner treats music as a form of storytelling – each record conceived as a self-contained world. His compositions often explore historical, philosophical and spiritual themes portrayed through the lens of symphonic black metal and theatrical expression.

With “Dante” (2025), Daidalos reaches a new artistic chapter: not a retelling but a reinterpretation of the Divine Comedy, where doubt, despair and revelation intertwine. Yet the core remains the same – the search for meaning in darkness, expressed through meticulous orchestration, intense vocal delivery and the balance between aggression and melancholy that defines Daidalos.

Endorsements: Steinberg (Cubase 12), Hörluchs (In-Ear Monitoring)

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0 Montreal Avant-Garde Metal with An Oboe DISORIENTATION Unveils New Single “The Pact” To Welcome New Members

February 20, 2026
by Asher
· Disorientation · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 20, 2026

Montreal Avant-Garde Metal with An Oboe DISORIENTATION Unveils New Single “The Pact” To Welcome New Members

L-R – Daniel Daris – Bass and Dirty Semi-Acoustic Rhythm Guitar; Marie-Claude Fleury – Lead and Backing Vocals, Oboe and Noise; Laurent Bellemare – Drums and Backing Vocals; Samuel Arseneau-Roy – Lead and Rhythm Guitar

Photo Credit – Geneviève Racine

Montreal dark experimental metal band Disorientation returns with “The Pact,” a new standalone single that signals the beginning of the group’s next chapter. Following the acclaim surrounding their 2023 EP “Survival Mode,” the band now emerges as a fully formed lineup, an evolution that is both sonic and symbolic.

Formed in 2020 by Marie‑Claude Fleury and Daniel Daris, Disorientation quickly carved out a niche with their unsettling blend of harsh vocals, dissonant woodwind arrangements, and structures that defy conventional metal boundaries. Their 2021 self‑titled EP earned early praise from local fans and media outlets such as Metal Trenches and Metalperver, while “Survival Mode” pushed their sound further into unorthodox territory, drawing accolades like “oddly fascinating” (Real Gone Rocks) and “madness bottled into just wonderfulness” (The Doorway to Zine).

Now joined by guitarist Samuel Arseneau‑Roy (Spectral Wound, Basalte) and drummer Laurent Bellemare (Chthe’ilist (live), Basalte, Sutrah), Disorientation is stepping into a fuller, more organic incarnation of itself.

“The Pact” was intentionally crafted as a standalone release, an opportunity to integrate the new members quickly and establish the band’s updated identity.

“We decided to limit ourselves to a single track so we could bring our two new members into the band quickly. We had to take some extra steps to bring the music to life, but it was worth it. This is our best‑sounding effort to date,” says vocalist/oboist Marie‑Claude Fleury.

Musically, “The Pact” is a journey through tension, revelation, and unease. It opens with a distant, noisy oboe motif before erupting into a fast, jagged pace. The track shifts through abrupt stops, whispered exchanges, mid‑tempo introspection, and acoustic glimmers of light, only to be swallowed again by the return of its initial riff. The final section, driven by palm‑muted guitars and unsettling vocal textures, places the listener at a crossroads.

“Which way do you go? This is the moment where choices must be made,” adds Fleury.

Lyrically, “The Pact” explores the rapid formation of intense connections and the darker undercurrents that can accompany them.

“It’s about those people you meet and get close to very quickly. As the attachment forms, a dark side appears. Is the bond as positive as it first seemed? And where can it lead?” says Fleury.

The single’s artwork reflects this duality: two hands clasped willingly, yet bound by shackles, an alliance that is both chosen and constrained.

With the addition of Samuel Arseneau‑Roy and Laurent Bellemare, who, along with Fleury, also perform in Montreal’s Growlers Choir, Disorientation’s sound has expanded in depth and physicality.

“Having a real drum and an extra guitar player definitely improved our sound. We now sound fuller and thicker. We’re looking forward to creating more music together,” comments Fleury.

Although Disorientation has yet to make its official live debut, the newly completed lineup has already explored its chemistry through private semi‑acoustic performances, an early glimpse of the versatility and intensity they intend to bring to the stage. Their unsettling atmospheres, atypical structures, and the uncommon presence of the oboe within extreme music remain central to their identity. The band fully embraces its odd, miserable, in‑your‑face, and troubling sonic character, and with “The Pact,” they push those traits even further while solidifying themselves as a unified creative force.

Recommended for fans of Celtic Frost, Imperial Triumphant, Sear Bliss, Fear of God, and Show of Bedlam, listen to “The Pact” at the following links:

Lyric Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qolhe_eE_SQ

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/3xThE92nJKTHkPTGPbUAbj

Bandcamp – https://disorientationmetal.bandcamp.com/album/the-pact

More Info:

https://www.facebook.com/disorientationmetal

https://www.instagram.com/disorientationmetal

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“Anyone who loves powerful metal and classical music will love this unorthodox fusion project.” – New Noise Magazine (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“Delving deeper into the eerie atmospherics of metal’s less-trodden path, we find Disorientation, a Montreal-based duo who eschews the symphonic metal genre’s usual dalliance with ethereal beauty, opting instead for an odyssey through sonic desolation. Born from the minds of Marie-Claude Fleury and Daniel Daris, Disorientation is the antithesis of grandeur and elegance, painting a world where the grotesque and the sublime collide.” – Idioteq (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“A really good surprise, and a magical, tragic, lysergic EP, which immerses us in a Rank Xerox universe. 8.5/10” – MetalNews.fr (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“This EP is obtuse, ugly and deeply troubled. Yet, at the same time, it’s oddly fascinating. (…) In terms of finding a way into Disorientation’s world of noise, there’s no easy route – and the duo seemingly want to keep it that way. For those who wrongly claim that extreme metal has nothing new to offer, this EP will gladly prove otherwise.” – Real Gone Rocks (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“Il risultato è a tratti stupefacente nella sua originalità, e la coppia riesce costantemente a esaltarsi grazie a trovate teatrali e visionarie.” 8/10 – Rock Hard Italia (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“DISORIENTATION sind kompromisslos schräg und nicht auszurechnen (…) die Songs und deren Stimmungsaufbau fügen sich dann doch zu einem Ganzen zusammen, das motivierend genug ist, um die Repeat-Taste zu drücken – solange bis die Kopfschmerzen nicht mehr auszuhalten sind.” – Vampster (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“Au vrai, Disorientation ne ressemble à rien et c’est finalement très bien ainsi. (…) Il n’est pourtant pas interdit de déceler dans cet EP de prime abord peu engageant, non pas une forme de beauté (il ne faut pas exagérer) mais au moins une espèce d’éclat fascinant, une lueur obsédante qui n’est parfois pas sans rappeler le King Crimson le plus halluciné. A conseiller à ceux que n’effraie pas le metal (très) extrême le plus dissonant.” 3/5 – Music Waves (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“It is madness bottled into just wonderfulness. (…) I love how it goes between symphonic, hardcore, dark metal and just experimental noise at times, there’s a lot of orchestral arrangements and just bizarreness in this band, (…) This band is just advanced in ways that you’re either going to love it or hate it.” – The Doorway to Zine (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“Moving away from the raw quality of the recording of their self titled debut EP with “Survival Mode” while Disorientation claim to have created something more straightforward this time around, that’s not the impression that we get. The Avant-garde duo instead go deeper down the rabbit hole and continue their perpetual forward motion with a ferocious and spine chilling trio of cuts that once again disorientate and disturb.” 8/10 – Metal Noise (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

“Montreal duo, Disorientation, aim to create a feeling of dizziness and nausea in the listener. If this fails, they can at least punish you with confusion. As an avant-garde metal act with a cor anglaise (English horn) and an oboe as their primary instruments, you can expect unorthodox interpretations of the metal orthodoxy. Survival Mode is their second release following 2021’s self-titled EP, and it’s the type of art that would have landed them an appointment with the hangman in sixteenth-century England as enemies of public decency. (…) Clearly, Igor Stravinsky is the main influence on this EP.” 7/10 – Scream Blast Repeat (2023 – Survival Mode – EP)

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0 SONS OF BUTCHER Fire Up The Grill w/ Video “Makin’ Bacon” From New EP “Skids” Out March 2026

February 20, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Sons of Butcher

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 20, 2026

SONS OF BUTCHER Fire Up The Grill w/ Video “Makin’ Bacon” From New EP “Skids” Out March 2026

L-R – Doug Borski – Bass/Vocals, Joey Salami – Guitar, Crissy Stixx – Drums, Ricky Butcher – Lead Vocals/Guitar

Photo Credit – Evan Thompson

Canada’s filthiest, funniest, and most fearlessly unwashed rock band, Sons of Butcher, return with “Skids”, a brand‑new four‑song EP due out in March 2026 to mark a fresh chapter in the band’s long, greasy legacy. After a decade‑long hiatus, the band behind Teletoon’s cult animated series is officially back in the butcher shop, with their most polished, unhinged, and radio‑ready material to date.

“This EP is an honest batch of comedy songs from the grease‑clogged hearts of a band of has‑been butchers,” says Ricky Butcher, lead vocals/guitar.

After releasing five full‑length albums and becoming infamous for spandex, pepperette‑throwing, and the roaming meat tray, the band stepped away until a reunion show reignited the flame. A photo from that night now serves as the EP’s cover art, capturing Ricky and Doug in a triumphant, full‑body rock pose that symbolized their return.

“Skids” is a raw, four‑track eruption of cheap‑meat swagger and skid‑life grit, marking Sons of Butcher’s first batch of songs not tied to their Teletoon storyline, aside from the fully overhauled “Peppercorn Steak,” revived from an indie pilot episode. Reuniting with longtime producer Jordon Zadorozny at Skylark Park and featuring drumming from Kellii Scott of Failure, the band carves out a sound that pushes their legacy forward while staying true to their cult‑favourite chaos. Across the EP, Sons of Butcher swing from the denim‑soaked bounce of “Denim Dreamin’” to the metal‑fired frenzy of lead single “Makin’ Bacon,” slide into the gritty pop‑rock swagger of “Steeltown Handy,” and land squarely back in classic SOB absurdity with the 80s‑riffed peppercorn‑obsessed anthem “Peppercorn Steak” (planned for release to be the band’s official anthem for National Steak Day on April 25th).

The EP’s lead single, “Makin’ Bacon,” is a high‑speed, metal‑tinged celebration of bacon worship. It’s chaotic, catchy, and quintessentially Sons of Butcher, shot out of a cannon and straight into your frontal lobe. The accompanying music video is a meaty, maximalist feast of absurdity, riff‑fueled energy, and pure mock‑rock spirit.

Watch the “Makin’ Bacon” video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lnsb7uWp4g

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/2xlPHi4gvvJ9BRnpZDQb7k

Sons of Butcher began as the real‑life incarnation of their animated Teletoon alter‑egos, blending absurdist comedy and heavy riffs into the proudly self‑made genre of mock rock. The band quickly grew beyond the cartoon, releasing five albums, one live album, and an EP, and has built a cult following through chaotic, spandex‑clad live shows and meat‑soaked theatrics. “Skids” marks their first major release since 2020’s “Lockdown In Steeltown” and their first collection of songs not directly tied to the original series’ storyline.

Recommended for fans of Tenacious D, Spinal Tap, Psychostick, and Steel Panther, “Skids” will be released on March 27th, 2026, and is available for CD pre-order at: https://sonsofbutcher.bandcamp.com/album/skids

Sons of Butcher will support the EP with a run of Spring 2026 tour dates, including five shows with Hamilton’s beloved skid‑icon B.A. Johnston.

Show Dates:
Feb 28 – The Parlour @ Ridiculous – Hamilton, ON – ‘Makin Bacon’ single release w/ Marty Topps
April 2 – Honey Dip – London, ON – opening for B. A. Johnston
April 3 – L’Hemisphere Gauche – Montreal, QC – opening for B. A. Johnston
April 4 – House of Targ – Ottawa, ON – opening for B. A. Johnston
April 17 – The Corktown – Hamilton, ON – opening for B. A. Johnston
April 18 – Baby G – Toronto, ON – opening for B. A. Johnston

Track Listing:
1. Denim Dreamin’ – (3:05)
2. Makin’ Bacon – (2:37)
3. Steeltown Handy – (2:21)
4. Peppercorn Steak – (1:42)

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Sons of Butcher
• All songs written by: Trevor Ziebarth
• Produced by: Jordon Zadorozny
• Mixed by: Jordon Zadorozny
• Mastered by: Bill Hendersen
• Album Artwork by: Jay Ziebarth, Randy Gilbert (front cover), Kidd Gloves Photography (back cover)
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

EP Line Up:
Ricky Butcher – Lead Vocals, Guitar
Doug Borski – Vocals, Bass
Kellii Scott – Drums
Jordon Zadorozny – Lead Guitar
Brandon Wars – Lead Guitar

Live Band Line Up:
Ricky Butcher – Vocals, Guitar
Doug Borski – Vocals, Bass
Crissy Stixx – Drums
Joey Salami – Lead Guitar

More Info:

https://www.sonsofbutcher.ca/

https://www.facebook.com/therealsobs

https://www.instagram.com/therealsobs/

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“Lockdown In Steeltown is a cheeky account that belongs with all historical records, as a kind of sly reminder when the next pandemic hits. Although it should probably be kept in the same section with Spinal Tap, “Weird” Al Yankovic, and pretty much every Dr. Demento show. I give this EP two Purell-sanitized thumbs up!” – Boston Rock Radio (2020 – Lockdown in Steeltown)

“the EP manages to lift the spirits of one or another rock fan with heavy music and silly jokes when they’re feeling cooped up, it has fulfilled its purpose. In any case, we’re not going to let a virus ruin our good mood.” – PowerMetal.de (2020 – Lockdown in Steeltown)

“Thing is, if there’s a word or a sentiment that could sum up 2020 is there one better than “FUCK!”?. As such, this could well be the album of our times. Crank it up, grab a beer, laugh at the childishness of it all and let twenty minutes or so more of the damn year slip by forever.” – Moshville Times (2020 – Ricky Butcher – Fuck! The Album)

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0 “Becoming the Dragon” Power Metal Warriors SIEGE PERILOUS Unchain New Video For Title Track For Concept Album Out March 2026

February 19, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Siege Perilous

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 19, 2026

“Becoming the Dragon” Power Metal Warriors SIEGE PERILOUS Unchain New Video For Title Track For Concept Album Out March 2026

A narrative-driven punch of epic fantasy power metal featuring incredible guests like Fabio Lione and Kristin Starkey!

Left to Right: Mark Girard (Drums) | Eric Fischer (Bass) | Shaughnessy McDaniel (Vocals) | Ryan Flanagan (Guitar) | Scott Hancock (Guitar)

Photographer Credit – Gii Astorga

Colorado power‑metal storytellers Siege Perilous are unschackling the official music video for “Becoming the Dragon,” the climactic title track from their upcoming concept album “Becoming the Dragon,” due out March 27, 2026.

The new video marks the band’s most ambitious visual project to date, capturing the album’s central transformation moment, where the protagonist embraces destiny, defies cosmic fate, and ascends into mythic power. The track arrives as the band continues to build momentum following the release of their first single, “As the Dragon Falls” (feat. Fabio Lione).

“‘Becoming the Dragon’ forms the critical climax of the story of our album. We wanted to capture something beyond just fantasy; it’s about defying fate, defying the stars, and embracing the power within. There are moments in life where we either transform or perish, and this song embodies that choice. It’s the moment our hero unlocks the true power inside him, and we think the track shows that transformation expertly,” says vocalist Shaughnessy McDaniel.

The song features thunderous drums, soaring vocals, shredding solos, and a standout bass interlude that drives the track toward its explosive finale. Musically, it represents the band’s evolution into a more cinematic, orchestrated, and emotionally charged sound.

Watch and listen to the music video “Becoming the Dragon” via its premiere on Metal Insider HERE.

A sweeping ten‑chapter concept record, “Becoming the Dragon” follows the “Child of Prophecy” through destiny, denial, destruction, and ultimately transcendence. The album blends classic heavy metal roots with modern symphonic power metal, drawing influence from Blind Guardian, Rhapsody, Iron Maiden, Avantasia, and Sabaton.

The record features guest performances from two major voices in modern power metal, Fabio Lione (Rhapsody, Angra) on “As the Dragon Falls”, and Kristin Starkey (Twilight Force, Temperance) on the power ballad “Echoes of Home”.

“Creating a massive, sweeping power‑metal epic has been a dream since before we even formed this band. Having Fabio and Kristin join us, two artists who inspired us long before Siege Perilous existed, is beyond anything we imagined when we started this project four years ago,” says McDaniel.

Forged in Colorado’s fantasy‑driven LARP community, Siege Perilous formed after McDaniel, guitarist Scott Hancock, and drummer Mark Girard were inspired by a 2021 Unleash the Archers show in Denver. Joined by bassist Eric Fischer (The Stubby Shillelaghs) and later guitarist/arranger Ryan Flanagan, the band has built a reputation for crafting epic, story‑driven metal that blends myth, history, and cinematic world‑building.

Their sound, described in five words as Epic, Melodic, Powerful, Cinematic, Story‑Driven, has evolved through collaborative songwriting, theatrical live performances, and a commitment to narrative‑focused metal.

Recommended for fans of Wind Rose, Hammerfall, Sabaton, Blind Guardian, and Iron Maiden, “Becoming the Dragon” is due out on March 27, 2026 and available for pre-order / pre-save at the following link:

https://siegemetal.bandcamp.com/album/becoming-the-dragon

First Single: “As the Dragon Falls” ft. Fabio Lione

Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzMIMvm4wvY

Add to your Spotify Playlist – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/siegeperilous/as-the-dragon-falls-feat-fabio-lione

Track Listing:
1. Overture (Instrumental) – (2:37)
2. Ancient Rite – (4:37)
3. As the Dragon Falls (feat. Fabio Lione) – (4:33)
4. Child of Prophecy – (4:05)
5. Shattered Mirage – (4:07)
6. Chieftain – (4:03)
7. Cut Down – (3:01)
8. Echoes of Home (feat. Kristin Starkey) – (4:48)
9. Becoming the Dragon – (5:09)
10. Eschaton – (7:50)
Album Length: 44:54

More info: Siegemetal.com | Facebook.com/siegeband | Instagram.com/siegeperilousmetal | Tiktok.com/@siegemetal

About:

Siege Perilous is a Colorado‑based power metal band specializing in epic, cinematic storytelling through music. Formed by Shaughnessy McDaniel (vocals), Scott Hancock (guitar), and Mark Girard (drums)—later joined by Eric Fischer (bass) and Ryan Flanagan (guitar/arrangements), the band draws from fantasy, history, and myth to craft immersive metal narratives. Their debut album, Becoming the Dragon, arrives March 27, 2026.

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“It gives me great pleasure to tell you that Creation’s Call is a blast. Siege Perilous has succeeded in creating what I would call Epic Power Metal for the Working Man. They don’t waste your time with overlong symphonic interludes between tracks, melodramatic narration, or overproduction that tests the limits of your sanity. The band gets right to the point and pulls you into their epic tales of heroic daring immediately. This is a nice breath of fresh air and if this EP is anything to go by, Siege Perilous has a great future ahead of them. Yes, this could be considered power metal but the no-nonsense approach and urgency to the songwriting makes this release absolutely worth checking out for those of us in the NWOTHM scene. Plus, it’s really just a lot of fun. This one is highly recommended. THENWOTHM SCORE: 9/10” – The NWOTHM

“‘Creation’s Call’ never gets boring, even on Heavy Rotation. Five gifted musicians have succeeded in creating a varied EP. The twin guitar solos are convincing the whole time. It’s just a shame that it ends after twenty-one minutes. It makes you wish for a full-length album. And, of course, a thrilling live performance. 9.3/10” – Metalheads Forever Magazine

“solid power metal style that should satiate any LARP-attendees or Dungeons and Dragons mavens. Keep an eye on this quintet – wield thy sword as they lead the battle charge for more quality power metal from the states. 8/10” – Dead Rhetoric

“There are any number of quality bands like Siege Perilous active right now but the style is popular (and I love it) and these guys are as decent as the next similar act. They lean more the Metal side of the equation using the folk and orchestral moments as flavour, not the main style. CREATION’S CALL is a fine effort and I could easily see them on tour with Brothers Of Metal, All For Metal, Fellowship and other costumed Metal heroes. Worth checking out!” 4/5 – Metal Rules

“Denver metal mob reckon that their goal on “Creation’s Call” was to build a world and tell a story in “three to five minutes.” It’s a world of fantasy, as “Oathsworn” proves, where metal rules and swords are held high. “Across The Rubicon,” however, is delivered with such skill that you can’t resist getting sucked in with them. Shaughnessy McDaniel has a brilliant “metal” voice, roaring on “Sons Of The Verdant,” and guitar duo Scott Hancock and Cody Martinez can knock out a NWOBHM riff like it’s 1982, as the title song underlines. “Brothers Of Five” brings the epic one last time, galloping in proper fashion, and it’ll be interesting to see how Siege Perilous develops. This is one hell of an opening statement, mind you. 8.5/10” – Maximum Volume Music

“Creation’s Call not only highlights Siege Perilous’ dedication to epic storytelling but also emphasises their versatility within the power metal genre. With influences ranging from historical events to high fantasy, this EP offers a rich and varied auditory experience that will captivate fans. Prepare to embark on a grand journey through myth and history as Siege Perilous delivers their latest saga.” – Amplify The Noise

“Creation’s Call it is a cohesive and well-crafted work, where the combination of rich letters in history and fantasy, with a meticulous musical execution, it makes mandatory, regardless of its short duration. [82%]” – Via Nocturna

“Creation’s Call doesn’t get boring even in heavy rotation. Five gifted musicians have created a varied EP. The solos of the twin guitars are convincing across the board. It’s just a shame that it’s over after twenty-one minutes. You want a full-length album. And of course a sweaty live performance. 9.4/10” – Keep On Rocking

“Colorfully mixed NWOTHM/Epic Heavy/Power Metal elixir that appeals to a broad range of fans between ALESTORM, BATTLEROAR, ETERNAL CHAMPION, GATEKEEPER, IRON MAIDEN, RUNNING WILD and WRATHBLADE. Awakens a huge appetite for a full long-play album. On this EP you can clearly see that the band has enormous potential and has already given a great taste of their skills. Conclusion: Strong-looking genretobak that falls out of the usual range! 8,5/10” – FFM-Rock

““Oathsworn” simply explodes out of the gate. The band ratchets every possible dial up to 11 and charges into battle with an epic statement of intent.” – Nine Circles

““Brothers Of The Five” offers classic power metal as you would appreciate it. The strain on the neck muscles is correspondingly high and in some places the number cannot deny a slight Maiden stable smell.” – Hellfire Magazin

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0 Quebec’s HOPELESS NATION Remerges Amid The World Chaos To Unleash New Video “Disaster”

February 19, 2026
by Asher
· Hopeless Nation · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 19, 2026

Quebec’s HOPELESS NATION Remerges Amid The World Chaos To Unleash New Video “Disaster”

From left to right: Karl Héroux Rella (Bass), Louis-Simon Bellerose (Lead Guitar), Frederic Marchand (Vocals), Steve DC (Drums), Guy Provencher (Rhythm Guitar)

Photo Credit: @willodoescontent

Quebec metal/hardcore veterans Hopeless Nation erupt into 2026 with the release of their explosive new single “Disaster”, accompanied by a gripping cinematic music video. The track marks the band’s most intense and precise work to date, blending their hardcore roots with modern metal atmosphere and emotionally charged storytelling.

Formed in 1998 and revitalized after a decade-long hiatus, Hopeless Nation has re-emerged as a powerful force in heavy music. Their 2025 comeback single “Silverspoon” premiered on Hardcore Worldwide (HCWW), earning them accolades from fans new and old. With renewed momentum, the band now pushes further with “Disaster,” the first in a series of new releases leading into an EP.

“Disaster” plunges listeners into a world on the brink, cities in ruin, humanity under pressure, and the search for hope amid destruction. Musically, the track delivers crushing riffs, relentless rhythms, and raw vocals that mirror the urgency of a live performance. The accompanying video amplifies the narrative: band members move through collapsing environments as firefighters, first responders, and civilians, navigating danger and fleeting moments of courage. Flickers of resilience cut through the chaos, creating a visual experience that is both cinematic and deeply human.

“We’re thrilled to release Disaster and the upcoming singles. These songs are a mix of energy, reflection, and raw honesty, and we couldn’t have done it without the incredible people around us,” adds the band.

The band highlights the contributions of engineer Francis Perron (RadicArt), known for his work with Voïvod, whose production elevated the music to new heights. They also pay tribute to former members Jonathan Houle and Maxime Dupont, whose years of musicianship helped shape Hopeless Nation’s identity.

“These releases are our way of honoring their legacy,” says the band.

Hopeless Nation’s sound has transformed from fast, raw hardcore into a heavier, more dynamic form of modern metal. Their influences span All Out War, ZAO, Gojira, Darkest Hour, Turnstile, and more, resulting in music that is cinematic, explosive, aggressive, intense, and evolving.

The writing process remains collaborative and deliberate. Lead guitarist Louis‑Simon Bellerose and the rhythm section spark ideas through riffs and melodies, while arrangements and breakdowns are shaped collectively.

“Every song gets the time it needs. We don’t rush. The goal is impact, not quantity,” adds the band.

Members Steve DC (drums) and Guy Provencher (rhythm guitar) also perform with Strigampire, winners of the 2023 Wacken Metal Battle Canada, representing the country at Wacken Open Air (Live Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RCPWXKf7RA). Collectively, Hopeless Nation’s members have played more than 200 shows, sharing stages with Despised Icon, 100 Demons, Bane, With Honor, Lofofora, and many more.

“Disaster” is the second of many more singles leading into a new EP. These tracks revisit and reimagine material from the band’s 2014 archives, refined with modern precision while preserving the raw hooks and intensity that define Hopeless Nation.

Watch and listen to the music video for “Disaster” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdSXUtJwjaU

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/artist/4DHSU9qBA5i8Fzs0yLI6b7

More info: https://www.instagram.com/hopelessnation_official | https://www.facebook.com/hopelessnation

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“Cette pièce immédiate, dense et agressive frappe dès la première seconde et se démarque par son intensité, ses couches sonores riches et ses refrains plus mélodiques, ouvrant le groupe à un public plus large tout en restant fidèle à son essence.” – Metal Universe (2025 – Silverspoon – Single)

“Hopeless Nation’s Silverspoon is featured on Exclaim!’s Weekly Playlist, highlighting the band among Canada’s notable new releases.” (2025 – Silverspoon – Single)

“I won’t lie to you and say I couldn’t wait to see the return of HOPELESS NATION. Their ten years of absence will have been far too long, having left their mark on the Trois-Rivières hardcore/metal scene from 1998 to 2014. Although many of their fans seemed absent (probably due to age), those from the first hours who were there as well as those who discovered the band for the first time were not disappointed. Fred, the singer, did not lose his enthusiasm at the time and his interaction with the public was impeccable. When we say that music is a story of passion, their performance was proof of that. HOPELESS NATION delivered a performance without artifice, rooted in a hardcore and metal heritage old school too often put aside these days.” – Chicks Rock Media – TROIS-RIVIÈRES METALFEST (2024)

“Invigorated by the arrival of new blood, Hopeless Nation channeled all this newfound energy into Built from Scratch, an album propelled by “the rage to start playing again”, to use the expression used by Maxime. Made with Francis Perron at Studio Radicart, the record marks a new stage in the journey of the group which, with 10 years of career behind its belt, is surely one of the deans of the Trois-Rivières metal scene. ” – Voir (2009)

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0 Gore House Prod. – ONCHOCERCIASIS ESOPHAGOGASTRODUODENOSCOPY Unleashes Single “Hurt Beyond Healing” From New Album “Fugue Gnawed from the Scabbed God Cerebrum”

February 19, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Onchocerciasis Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (Gore House Productions)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 19, 2026

ONCHOCERCIASIS ESOPHAGOGASTRODUODENOSCOPY Unleashes Single “Hurt Beyond Healing”

New Album “Fugue Gnawed from the Scabbed God Cerebrum” Out April 2026 via Gore House Productions

L – R – The Popuko – Guitars, Drums, Bass, Backing Vocals, Alice Simard – Guitars, Drums, Jesse Agiomamitis – Vocals

Apocalyptic death metal entity Onchocerciasis Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (OxE) has announced the release of “Hurt Beyond Healing,” the first single from their upcoming full‑length album “Fugue Gnawed from the Scabbed God Cerebrum,” out April 3, 2026, through Gore House Productions.

The track marks the beginning of a new era for the multinational trio, Canadian guitarist Alice Simard, Australian vocalist Jesse Agiomamitis, and German multi‑instrumentalist Popu, whose sound has evolved from raw goregrind origins into something far more calculated, dissonant, and otherworldly.

“We chose Hurt Beyond Healing because it’s one of the more straightforward tracks on the record. It still carries our weirder elements, but it gives listeners a taste of the brutality before the rest of the LP throws them into far stranger territory,” says vocalist Jesse Agiomamitis.

Listen to “Hurt Beyond Healing” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BB-fAVXSSGE

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/67zmkZcB3tOdb3RUcUFmww

“Fugue Gnawed from the Scabbed God Cerebrum” is OxE’s most ambitious and punishing work to date, a labyrinth of warped synths, alien textures, and meticulously crafted brutality. Musically, the album pushes the band deeper into experimental territory, drawing inspiration from releases such as Nithing’s “Agonal Hymns” and Dripping’s “Disintegration of Thought Patterns During A Synthetic Mind Traveling Bliss.”

“The LP is definitely the most experimental OxE release so far. Between the carnage of the main instrumentals are layers of synths and organic instrumentation that have been sonically destroyed to give everything an alien feel,” says Popu.

Lyrically, the album follows a cryptic conceptual arc centered around a mythic “godslayer” figure, an entity on a cosmic, God‑of‑War‑esque rampage through the universe. The narrative mirrors the album’s emotional core: cold, calculated violence intertwined with themes of mental illness, mythological annihilation, and existential dread.

For the album’s artwork, the band once again collaborated with acclaimed artist Mei Maro, whose surreal, folklore‑infused style visually captures the album’s fusion of myth, brutality, and psychological distortion.

“We wanted something that represented all of our combined influences. Mei always delivers something incredible, and this piece ties together everything we explored on the record,” adds the band.

The album’s eleven songs carve out a relentless and disorienting sonic journey. It opens with “Conquering Divinity,” a chaotic, myth‑laden assault designed to immediately destabilize the listener. “Gutted & Corpsed” delivers ferocious blasting, inhuman vocal textures, and a plunge into an underworld‑like atmosphere. “Heaven’s Empty Halls” shifts into eerie, dungeon‑synth‑infused territory, setting the stage for the album’s final descent. The closer, “Forged in the Blackest Reaches of Blasphemy,” ties the record together with a melodic yet brutal homage to the band’s key influences. Across the journey, from the twisted melodicism of “Apotheotic Apotemnophilia” to the crushing weight of “Entombed Within the Infinite Panopticon,” the album balances experimentation with the visceral heaviness fans expect.

“With this album, we’ve done what we’ve always done, simply better. We don’t want to stray too far from our original DNA, from what makes the band who we are, but there’s always going to be progression in some direction. This record marks our longest gap between releases, which isn’t something we had in mind, but great art can’t be rushed out the door, and while it may have taken some time to materialize, I’m certain that this record will be everything fans have wanted and then some, because it certainly was for us. Each album is a learning process, and I feel as though these new tracks we’ve got, more than anything else we’ve made, have taught us invaluable lessons about who we are as people, and just how much we love music and the creative process,” says vocalist Jesse.

Formed in Quebec City, OxE began as a solo project by guitarist Alice Simard, who sought to explore heavier, more grotesque sonic territory. After recruiting vocalist Jesse Agiomamitis in 2019 and later joining forces with German musician Popu, the project evolved into a fully collaborative, internationally connected force.

Their sound, described by the band as Inhuman, Unnerving, Calculated, Chaotic, Apocalyptic, draws from brutal death metal, black metal, avant‑garde experimentation, and a wide range of non‑musical influences, including Dark Souls, NieR, Berserk, Evangelion, and global mythology.

For Fans of Deathspell Omega, Disentomb, Artificial Brain, First Fragment, Disgorge, and Ulcerate, OxE’s “Fugue Gnawed from the Scabbed God Cerebrum” is available on CD, Cassette, and digitally from Stillbirth Records / Gore House Productions at https://orcd.co/scabbed-god-cerebrum

Track Listing:
1. Conquering Divinity – 3:17
2. The Fallen Lament, Paralytikus Ascends – 1:21
3. Severing What Makes Me Human – 2:41
4. Apotheotic Apotemnophilia – 3:03
5. Entombed Within the Infinite Panopticon – 2:23
6. Gutted & Corpsed – 3:05
7. Heaven’s Empty Halls – 5:13
8. Hurt Beyond Healing – 2:33
9. Abyssikataplexika – 2:35
10. Vile Verses Flogged into the Wings of Angels – 1:23
11. Forged in the Blackest Reaches of Blasphemy – 4:58
Album Length: 32:32

ROLES:
Jesse Agiomamitis: Vocals, Lyrics
Alice Simard: Composition, Guitars, Lead Guitars
The Popu: Additional Songwriting, Mixing and Mastering, Guitars, Bass, Orchestration and Sound Design, Additional lyrics, Additional Vocals

More info:

https://gorehouseproductions.com/

https://www.facebook.com/OnchoOfficial

https://www.instagram.com/onchocerciasis_official

-30-

“It’s brutal as fuck, but it’s also explores the entire bouquet of sick creativity extreme music has to offer. The Fallen Lament is fun. It’s violent and it loves to blur boundaries between already scummy, disgusting genres.” – Vox & Hops Metal Podcast (The Fall Lament – 2024)

“This EP is definitely for the lovers of the extreme – fans of Deathspell Omega, Defeated Sanity, and Ulcerate will dig the fuck out of this record. So will fans of Dehumanizing Itatrian Worship, whose Kiryu Zhang contributes vocals on the last track of the EP, ‘Facial Gutting’. 9/10” – Ever Metal (The Fall Lament – 2024)

“The tracks revolve around blast beats and slams with some truly impressive breakdowns on display. Lyrics are themed around many different influences including mental health issues that have plagued the bands members, anime and video games making for an interesting read. In essence this EP provides a really promising preview of things to come for this band, who have the potential based on this evidence of creating something special.” – The Razor’s Edge (The Fall Lament – 2024)

“OxE are a different beast, very heavy and extreme but different to most bands of this ilk. The best way to describe them would be like Mortician, but with slam riffs! They have that downtuned bass that trawls the depths of hell with its tone and razor-sharp guitars, frantic programmed drums and some seriously deranged vocals. The tracks are short and sweet, the whole EP only goes on for ten minutes twenty one secs but in that time, you feel so bludgeoned and battered listening to it that it feels much longer, almost like you are succumbing to some exquisite torture!| – The Razor’s Edge (The Fall Lament – 2024)

“What’s cool here is when the music slows down almost to a crawl and sounds creepy as fuck, with a horror/suspense-like feeling that’s not without reminding me of some of the most disgusting episodes of the X-Files when they had some kind of monster eating its victims or what have you, and you can probably throw in a few horror B-movies in there as well. The Fallen Lament is kind of chaotic and dissonant and certainly sets itself apart in the sea of brutal death metal releases out there. 4/5” – The MetalCrypt (The Fall Lament – 2024)

“primal and brutal variety of dramatic and booming extreme metal ” – The Viking in the Wilderness (The Fall Lament – 2024)

“Brutal gore death grind metal with pig squeally vox” – 89.9 WORT FM – The Moshpit (Madison, WI) (The Fall Lament – 2024)

“It’s been a long time since I heard anything like this mentioned, and the truth is that I haven’t been disappointed. Those from Canada bring us the best formula to execute it. This is based on being as heavy as they are fluid, without giving up the occasional surprise in the form of extra convolutions, which, by the way, fits like a glove. I was extremely grateful that they didn’t focus on composing ultra-heavy and simplistic «ruido» with little direction twist like many others do, reminding us once again that Slam can be rich in nuances within its borders.” – Broken Tomb (The Fall Lament – 2024)

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0 Rockshots Records – Visit The “Desolate Lands” With EMBRACE OF SOULS’ New Music Video From Concept Album “The Battle Of The Dead” Out May 2026

February 18, 2026
by Asher
· Embrace of Souls (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 18, 2026

Visit The “Desolate Lands” With EMBRACE OF SOULS’ New Music Video

Concept Album “The Battle Of The Dead” Out May 2026

Embrace Of Souls release today “Desolate Lands”, the new single and official video taken from their upcoming fantasy concept album “The Battle Of The Dead”, set for release on May 22nd, 2026.

Watch the official video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8TS0sF6CQ2s

Listen: https://lnk.to/7wfF6l

Forged in classic power-metal steel and sharpened with symphonic force, “Desolate Lands” delivers fast, militant rhythms, massive orchestral arrangements, and a relentless melodic drive rooted in the ’80s and ’90s tradition. Dark tonalities and epic tension shape the track, driven by Giacomo Rossi’s commanding vocals and reinforced by Martina Mazzeo’s operatic power – a song of devastation, sacrifice, and defiance rising from the ashes of war.

Taken from the upcoming fantasy concept album “The Battle Of The Dead”, the single introduces a world torn apart by a mysterious plague that corrupts the soul, pushing kingdoms toward an inevitable clash between the living and the dead. The album unfolds as a complete narrative experience, exploring themes of power, betrayal, sacrifice, and hope.

Founded by drummer and composer Michele Olmi, Embrace Of Souls began as a studio project aimed at bringing together talented musicians from the Italian metal scene, before evolving into a full band with a strong identity and a collaborative creative approach.

This new chapter is marked by a renewed line-up. Giacomo Rossi steps forward as lead vocalist, delivering a powerful and expressive performance, while Martina Mazzeo’s soprano vocals add a theatrical dimension. Their interplay reinforces the balance between power metal intensity and symphonic elegance, a dualism of light and dark that runs throughout the album.

The songwriting process reflects the same collaborative spirit: initial ideas developed by Michele Olmi are expanded together with the band, with each member contributing to the final shape of the music and the narrative.

The album also features a special guest appearance by Morby (Domine), further strengthening the connection with the classic Italian power metal tradition.

“The Battle Of The Dead” was mixed and mastered by Alessio Garavello at Rogue Studios, London, enhancing the clarity, impact, and cinematic depth of the band’s sound.

As the band states:

“We want The Battle Of The Dead to be a complete listening experience. Each track has its own identity, but everything is connected to the story. We want listeners to dive into the world of the album and discover it step by step.”

“The Battle Of The Dead” will be released on May 22nd, 2026, in digital format and digipak CD edition, and will be available for pre-order at the following link: https://rockshots.eu/products/embrace-of-souls-the-battle-of-the-dead-cd

OFFICIAL MERCH: https://embraceofsoulsband.bigcartel.com/

For fans of: Rhapsody Of Fire, Stratovarius, Sonata Arctica, Nightwish.

Track Listing:
1. The Battle Of The Dead
2. Eversun
3. The Plague
4. The Gathering
5. Spine
6. Who Can Save Us
7. Betrayal
8. The Dark Lord
9. The War (feat. Morby)
10. Sacrifice
11. Desolate Lands

Line-up:
Giacomo Rossi – Vocals
Martina Mazzeo – Vocals
Edward De Rosa – Guitars
Xavier Rota – Bass
Davide Baldelli – Keyboards
Michele Olmi – Drums

More info:
https://www.rockshots.eu

https://www.instagram.com/embraceofsouls/

https://www.facebook.com/embraceofsoulsofficial/

BIOGRAPHY:

Embrace Of Souls is an Italian power metal band founded by drummer and composer Michele Olmi, conceived with the aim of bringing together talented musicians around a shared vision rooted in collaboration, brotherhood, and a deep passion for classic metal. Initially born as a studio project, the band took shape with the release of their debut album “The Number Of Destiny” in 2021, receiving positive feedback on an international level and notable acclaim in Japan.

Drawing inspiration from ’80s and ’90s heavy and power metal, as well as the epic and symphonic metal of the early 2000s, Embrace Of Souls developed a sound characterized by powerful riffs, epic atmospheres, and strong melodic sensibility. Over time, the project evolved into a full live band, allowing the group to further consolidate its artistic identity and deepen its expressive range.

In 2024, Embrace Of Souls returned with their second full-length album, “Forever Part Of Me,” marking a significant step forward in terms of maturity and songwriting. This phase also introduced important changes within the line-up, bringing renewed energy and a broader musical perspective to the band’s sound.

A key element of this evolution is the current vocal pairing. Giacomo Rossi, already involved in previous releases, now takes on a central role as lead vocalist while Martina Mazzeo, an accomplished soprano vocalist, adds a symphonic and operatic dimension to the band’s music. Together, their voices embody the duality that defines Embrace Of Souls: light and darkness, power and elegance, intensity and emotion.

Having shared the stage with renowned acts such as Domine, Vision Divine, Stratovarius, Sonata Arctica, and Rhapsody Of Fire, Embrace Of Souls continue to refine their identity while looking toward the future. The band is now working on new material, further developing their epic and narrative-driven approach to solidify their presence on the international power metal scene.

-30-

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0 Rockshots Records – Cosmic Prog Metal VANDERLUST Unveils First Single “Humanity 2.0 – The Human Farm” From New Sci-Fi Metal Opera “The Human Farm” Out April 2026

February 18, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Vanderlust (Rockshots Records)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 18, 2026

Cosmic Prog Metal VANDERLUST Unveils First Single “Humanity 2.0 – The Human Farm” From New Sci-Fi Metal Opera “The Human Farm” Out April 2026

Rockshots Records is proud to announce the release of “The Human Farm“, the ambitious new sci-fi concept album by progressive metal band Vanderlust, hitting stores worldwide on April 17th, 2025.

To ignite this interstellar journey, the band has unveiled the first single and opening chapter of the album today: “Humanity 2.0 – The Human Farm“.

STREAM “HUMANITY 2.0 – THE HUMAN FARM”: https://lnk.to/iEpgIm

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUPFUoBm1Tc

“Humanity 2.0 – The Human Farm” is the symphonic overture that opens the gates to the band’s dystopian universe. More than a standard song, it serves as the narrative prologue, setting the atmosphere for the entire record. The track transports the listener to the year 2500 A.D. Humanity, suffering from poverty and despair, is visited by an ancient alien species known as the Coelacanth. They offer a “perfect life” inside a “Human Farm“: safety, comfort, and care, but at a terrible price -execution at the age of 40. This opening chapter poses the central dilemma of the record: if you were offered a short but perfect life in exchange for your freedom… would you accept?

Arriving April 17th, “The Human Farm” is a metal opera that blends traditional melodic power metal with technical progressive elements and thrash intensity. Inspired by Plato’s Cave allegory and classic sci-fi lore, the album tells the story of Abe and a group of rebels who discover their “perfect life” is a prison and attempt a desperate escape through the cosmos. Musically, the band describes the sound as energetic, refined, and atmospheric.

Drawing inspiration from the melodic grandeur of Angra and Dream Theater, the new material incorporates intricate, sci-fi riffing reminiscent of Vektor and Megadeth. Guitarist Francesco comments on the release: “To me, this album represents the band’s maturation. It is a journey; to fully enjoy it and truly understand its content, it needs to be listened to in its entirety. Just like the story tells, it unfolds as a narrative in which each track follows the previous one with a particular sense of continuity.”

The album features special guest appearances by Martina Barreca (Mess Excess), who provides the growls and operatic vocals representing the alien Coelacanths, and Francesco Londino (S91), who contributes keyboard solos and arrangements.

PRE-ORDER THE ALBUM: https://rockshots.eu/products/vanderlust-the-human-farm

Track Listing:
1. Humanity 2.0 – The Human Farm
2. Golden Shackles
3. The Turning Point
4. Connection Failed
5. Viral Escape
6. … Find Them!
7. Battlefield
8. From The Cave – Fuga
9. Drive
10. Reborn … Again
11. Humanity 3.0: The New Canaan

Line-up:
Ricca “ZP” Morello: Vocals
Francesco “Franz” Romeggini: Guitars, Backing Vocals
David Cantina: Bass
Giacomo Mezzetti: Drums, Backing Vocals

More info:
https://rockshots.eu/

https://www.facebook.com/vanderlustofficial/

BIOGRAPHY:

Vanderlust was born from a precise artistic vision: to tell science fiction stories through the language of melodic/progressive metal. What began as an ambitious concept soon evolved into a fully developed identity, where traditional heavy and power metal foundations merge with progressive structures, intricate riffing, and atmospheric textures shaped by a futuristic imagination.

At the creative core stands guitarist Francesco Romeggini, whose compositional direction defines the band’s sonic architecture. His ideas, later refined collectively by the band, result in a dynamic balance between technical detail and emotional depth. The members bring experience from previous acts such as S91, Dreal, and Speed Kills, combining classic metal roots with a forward-looking approach.

Vanderlust’s sound can be described as energetic, refined, and intricate, yet always driven by narrative purpose. Melodic power metal emerges strongly in the vocal phrasing, while progressive elements influence structures and rhythmic patterns rather than sheer song length. Sci-fi atmospheres surface not only through thematic choices but also through electronic layers and occasional orchestral arrangements, reinforcing the cinematic scale of their storytelling without losing the grit of traditional metal.

With “The Human Farm“, the band reaches a clear stage of maturation. Expanding beyond the more traditional framework of their debut, Vanderlust intensifies their progressive edge and strengthens the conceptual dimension of their work. The album unfolds as a cohesive narrative journey, exploring themes of freedom, control, and existential choice delivered through high-energy tracks, dynamic contrasts, and emotionally charged moments.

On stage, the band translates complexity into impact. Rather than focusing solely on instrumental execution, Vanderlust aims for a powerful, engaging live presence, ensuring that the emotional force of their music connects directly with the audience.

Vanderlust stands at the intersection of classic melodic metal and progressive sci-fi – a band committed to building worlds, not just songs.

– 30 –

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#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
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