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Category: Music News

0 Reminder – JULY 29th at WACKEN OPEN AIR – WACKEN METAL BATTLE USA 2026 Champions GANNONDORF

  • July 28, 2026
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Wacken Metal Battle USA

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 28, 2026

Reminder – JULY 29th at WACKEN OPEN AIR – WACKEN METAL BATTLE USA 2026 Champions GANNONDORF

WACKEN METAL BATTLE USA 2026 champions GANNONDORF will be performing on the Headbangers Stage at Wacken Open Air on July 29th.

Band: Gannondorf (Wacken Metal Battle USA Champions)
Date: Wednesday, July 29, 2026
Time: 11:25 AM – 11:45 AM
Stage: Headbangers Stage
Genre: Avant-garde Extreme Metal

​https://www.facebook.com/Gannondorfmetaloffical​

​https://www.instagram.com/gannondorfmetalofficial/​

​https://gannondorf.bandcamp.com/​

​https://open.spotify.com/artist/6HOB8sNatqHsDGAwMQei5N​

About Winning Wacken Metal Battle USA:

Photo Credit – C.Huerta.Photos​

One band has conquered them all! Wacken Metal Battle USA proudly crowns San Diego’s GANNONDORF as the 2026 champions. The band now seizes a coveted slot at Wacken Open Air, one of the world’s most iconic and influential metal festivals, and will advance to the international Wacken Metal Battle, where rising bands from across the globe unleash their headbanging, mosh‑ready power before a massive sea of metalheads gathered from every corner of the world.

The Wacken Metal Battle USA 2026 National Final brought together the top six bands from across the country after months of battles in cities nationwide. Representing the fiercest underground metal the United States has to offer, the final contenders were FATE DEFINED (Spokane, WA), NEMESIS (Houston, TX), GANNONDORF (San Diego, CA), RAMTHA (St. Petersburg, FL), THE VICTORIOUS DEAD (New York, NY), and THROUGH THE OCULUS (Apple Valley, CA).

After taking the stage on June 13th at Brick By Brick in San Diego, CA, before a crowd of metal‑hungry fans and a panel of industry judges including Rod Kukla (Silver Lining Music), Martin Koller (Prophecy Productions / SPKR Media), and Kelly McLauchlin (Pessimist), only one band could claim the title of WMBU 2026 Champion. GANNONDORF delivered with unrelenting fury, winning over both judges and fans to seize the crown.

WMBU organizer Eric Dow comments:

“Once again, we had a successful battle. 41 shows with over 200 bands competing. The National Final was full of talent, energy, and an overall sense of pride in our underground US bands. Thank you to all the judges, venues, media partners, promoters, bands, and, of course, the fans for making this thing happen every year. Special shout-out to Salman, Jon Asher, and Dean Guitars. Best of luck to Gannondorf at Wacken and best of luck to the rest of the bands as they move forward with their careers.”

Judges Rob Kukla, Kelly McLauchlin, and Martin Koller add:

“My fourth time judging the USA final, and I can honestly say the quality of the finalists was the best ever. Good luck to the winner, Gannondorf, in their final metal battle at the legendary Wacken Open Air.” – Rod Kukla

“What an amazing night… all the bands brought great energy, and were extremely talented – the best from all over the country – and it was fierce competition… some of the most brilliant performances I’ve seen. I know the judges agree that it was a very, very close battle, and it literally came down to fractions of a point to determine the winner. Congratulations to Gannondorf, and we wish them all the best as they represent the USA this year at Wacken!” – Kelly McLauchlin

“Congratulations to Gannondorf, the winner of the Wacken Metal Battle National Final! The final was a tight race; there were 4 bands just one point apart. Let’s push thumbs and hope Gannondorf will also rule at the Wacken Festival in Germany” – Martin Koller

Listen to all the USA national final bands on the WMBU 2026 Final Spotify Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/playlist/14751T41YocZkJCVUJWcjL?si=HGcF4x2xRXKHWR8PEaXy5w​

Previous WMBU national winners: Mourning High (2025 – Southern California / Arizona), Cascade Effect (2024 – San Diego), Fadrait (2023 – San Diego), Mythraeum (2022 – San Diego), Monarch (2019 – San Diego), Voices of Ruin (2018 – Anaheim), and Corpse Hoarder (2017 – Philadelphia).

For the last seven years of battles (2017-2019, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025), Wacken Metal Battle USA has hosted battles across the country to send one independent metal band to perform at the world’s largest metal festival, Wacken Open Air in Wacken, Germany. 2019 saw the festival celebrate its 30th anniversary, but due to COVID, the 2020 and 2021 editions were both canceled. As the metal community regains its strength, Wacken Open Air 2026 will be the 35th edition of the festival and will be held from July 29th to August 1st. The 2026 event is already sold out with a line-up that includes Def Leppard, Lamb Of God, In Flames, Powerwolf, Emperor, Sepultura, and Running Wild, among others. Details here.

Wacken Metal Battle USA is part of an international competition that sees bands from across the country battle each other for the chance to win their spot among over 55 other countries’ champions and represent the USA in an international battle of the bands at the world’s largest outdoor metal festival: Wacken Open Air. The battles have been hosted at the festival for over a decade and allow independent bands to showcase their talents to an international audience, along with the chance to win multiple prizes.

How it works:​
​Participating cities will host qualifying rounds plus a city final organized by a local city concert promoter, where one band will move forward to the American national final (date and city to be determined). The winner of the national final will advance to perform at Wacken Open Air 2026 and compete against the winners of international bands from around the globe in a major international battle. All bands will be judged during battle rounds by respected local music industry representatives.

About Wacken Open Air:​
Wacken Open Air is the largest heavy metal festival in the world. Starting with 800 visitors in 1990, nowadays 85,000 fans from all over the world travel to Wacken every year, turning the small village in Schleswig-Holstein into the center of the festival scene for several days. The organizing WOA Festival GmbH is connected to a broad network, including band management, the Wacken Foundation, tour booking, music publishing, Travel & Stay, merchandising distribution, and ticketing. In cooperation with partners, these results in creative solutions and ideas that revolutionize the festival experience, enable technical innovations, and produce extraordinary event concepts. Wacken Open Air 2026 will take place from July 29 to August 1, 2026.

More info:​
​Metal-Battle.com​
​MetalBattleUSA.com​
​Facebook.com/metalbattleusa​.official​
​X.com/MetalBattleUSA​
​Instagram.com/wmbusa.official​

– 30 –

Sponsors / Partners:​
Fatal Illness Management
Bravewords.com
Metal-Rules.com
V13.net
GhostCultMag.com
Come And Take It Productions
Brick By Brick
Distilled Entertainment
Piox Promotions
Tampa Bay Metal Scene
Last Light Presents
East Coast Metal Mayhem
Dean Guitars
Asher Media Relations

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media Relations
Instagram – AsherMedia
Tweet – AsherMedia

0 Reminder – July 31st – Aug 2nd – LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR FESTIVAL 2026 (Drumheller, AB) w/ FALLUJAH, ALLEGAEON, SUMMONING THE LICH, GRAVEMASS, CRIMSON SHADOWS, EDGE OF PARADISE and more!

  • July 28, 2026
  • by Asher
  • · Loud As Hell Festival · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 28, 2026

​Festival Press Materials – Posters, Band Links, EPKs, Photos – HERE​

Reminder – July 31st – Aug 2nd – LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR FESTIVAL 2026

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, 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

​

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)
Citizen Rage (Calgary, AB)
Supermodel Taxidermy (Fort McMurray, AB)
​​
​Saturday, August 1​
Allegaeon (Fort Collins, CO)
Damn Coyote Chris (Grande Prairie, AB)
Gravemass (Vancouver, BC)
Hazzardous Material – Burlesque (Alberta)
Death Toll Rising (Edmonton, AB)
Super Monster Party (South Florida)
Autumn Lies Buried (Clarksville, TN)
Selias (Toronto, ON)
Cyanate (Reno, NV)
Arrow In The Quiver (Vancouver, BC)
Brain Stem (Edmonton, AB)
Shackled To The Throne (Edmonton, AB)
Crimson Caliber (Medicine Hat, AB)
Enduring The Fall (Edmonton, AB)
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)
Divinity (Calgary, AB)
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 (Saskatoon, 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)
BrokenNeckRadio

– 30 –

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
Facebook – Asher Media Relations
Instagram – AsherMedia
Tweet – AsherMedia

0 REMINDER at WACKEN OPEN AIR – JULY 29th – METAL BATTLE CANADA 2026 Champions BORNBROKEN

  • July 27, 2026
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Uncategorized · Wacken Metal Battle Canada

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 27, 2026

REMINDER at WACKEN OPEN AIR – JULY 29th – METAL BATTLE CANADA 2026 Champions BORNBROKEN

WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA 2026 champions BornBroken will be performing on the Headbangers Stage at Wacken Open Air on July 29th.

Stage: Headbangers Stage
Day: Wednesday, July 29th
Time: 12:15pm- 12:35pm (CEST) GMT+2

Their latest album “Am I Invisible” is available on vinyl and digitally at the following links:

Music Video – Am I Invisible – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3JXTHX0svI​

Bandcamp – https://bornbroken.bandcamp.com​

Vinyl – https://loudtrax.com/bornbroken-am-i-invisible-vinyl-74535​

Digital Album – https://ffm.to/785376b4ad1c4c7e8b394d6c59d215c6​

YouTube Album Stream – https://youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_n1g45sHdHIUNYMf350HdQSyBOHi3GgZ5I​

More info – https://linktr.ee/bornbroken​

About Winning Wacken Metal Battle Canada:

Following intense regional clashes, four bands, BORNBROKEN (Montreal, QC), ASHES OF YGGDRASIL (Lloydminster, AB/SK), EMPALEMENT (Victoria, BC) and GRAVEARTH (Oshawa, ON) rose above the rest to earn their place at the national final on May 9th in Montreal, QC, taking over Piranha Bar (680 Ste‑Catherine Ouest). There, they all unleashed their might before a crowd of die‑hard metal fans and a judging panel of industry veterans, including Luc Laine (CFLX 95.5 FM – Alerte Metallique), Pierre Beaubien (CIBL 101.5 FM – Décibel Métal), Andrew Wieler (CJLO 1690 AM – Metal Director), Kaje Annihilatrix (Promoter, Freelance Metal Writer, Asher Media), Dany Soucy (Nova Spei, Bam&Co‑Heavy Label, Trois‑Rivières Metalfest), and Patrick Loisel (Augury).
​
Only one band could claim the crown, and BornBroken emerged victorious as Canada’s 2026 national champion, earning the honour of representing the nation at the 35th anniversary of Wacken Open Air and competing in the international Wacken Metal Battle, where bands from over 30 countries collide in a global showdown.

WMBC organizer JJ Tartaglia comments:

“Congrats to BornBroken; they are sure to tear it up at Wacken this summer and do Canada proud!”

BornBroken‘s guitarist and vocalist, Mike Decker, comments on their crowning:

“Winning the Canadian Wacken Metal Battle still hasn’t fully sunk in. We’ve spent years grinding through clubs, hauling gear through snowstorms, playing to half-empty rooms, and fighting for every inch as a band, so this means more to us than we can really put into words. To now represent Canada at Wacken Open Air is something we will never take for granted.

This win belongs to everyone who’s supported BornBroken over the years. Our families, our friends, the promoters who gave us chances, the people who bought merch when we were struggling to keep moving, and every single person who ever stood in front of the stage and gave us their energy. You carried us here as much as we carried ourselves.

We also want to give respect to every band that was part of this year’s battle. The level of talent, passion, and heart we saw was incredible. We may be the band getting on the plane, but we honestly feel like we’re carrying a piece of every one of those bands with us onto that stage in Germany. In our eyes, everyone who stepped into this battle and gave it everything they had is a winner.

We’re proud, we’re grateful, and we’re ready to give Wacken everything we’ve got…”

======

WMBC 2026 National Final Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1Yizi851LwbShAduRaqHf3​

About Metal Battle:

The Wacken Metal Battle is an international metal music contest that culminates at the famous Wacken Open Air festival. It features the top bands from each nation, showcasing fresh and young metal music directly from the underground. The contest is open to unsigned metal bands and has become a significant platform for breaking through the local circuit. The 2026 edition of Wacken Metal Battle Canada is currently underway. The winner will have the opportunity to perform at Wacken Open Air, one of the world’s largest metal festivals, attracting tens of thousands of metal fans from around the globe. For more information and updates, you can visit the official Wacken Metal Battle website – https://www.metal-battle.com/​

About Wacken Open Air:​
Wacken Open Air is the largest heavy metal festival in the world. Starting with 800 visitors in 1990, nowadays 85,000 fans from all over the world travel to Wacken every year, turning the small village in Schleswig-Holstein into the center of the festival scene for several days. The organizing WOA Festival GmbH is connected to a broad network, including band management, the Wacken Foundation, tour booking, music publishing, Travel & Stay, merchandising distribution, and ticketing. In cooperation with partners, these results in creative solutions and ideas that revolutionize the festival experience, enable technical innovations, and produce extraordinary event concepts. Wacken Open Air 2026 will take place from July 29 to August 1, 2026.

More info:

​https://www.facebook.com/WMBCanada.official​

​https://www.instagram.com/wmbcanada.official/​

-30-

Media Partners:​
Bravewords.com
Metal-Rules.com
Absolute Underground Magazine
BrokenNeckRadio.com
V13.net
Rich Embury (internationally syndicated DJ)
GhostCultMag.com
Rocknroam.ca
Vox & Hops Podcast
The Metal Voice
Décibel Métal (CIBL 101.5 FM)
—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media Relations
Instagram – AsherMedia
Tweet – AsherMedia

0 Montreal Tech-Death VOLUBILIS Unleashes New Lyric Video “Unukhalai Supernova” From Debut Sci-Fi Concept Album “Theasterion” Out Now!

  • July 27, 2026
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Volubilis

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 27, 2026

Montreal Tech-Death VOLUBILIS Unleashes New Lyric Video “Unukhalai Supernova” From Debut Sci-Fi Concept Album “Theasterion” Out Now!

L-R – Shawn Hillman (Fretless bass) | Miguel Marcheterre-Pina (Guitar) | André Dubien (Vocals)

Photo Credit – Jade Weeles & Miguel Marcheterre-Pina

Montréal technical death metal force Volubilis has unveiled the lyric video for “Unukhalai Supernova,” premiering today exclusively via NoCelanSinging. The single arrives ahead of the band’s debut full‑length album, “Theasterion,” a colossal conceptual release that positions Volubilis as one of Canada’s most ambitious new voices in progressive and technical death metal.

Founded in 2020 by Afro‑Canadian multi‑instrumentalist Miguel Marcheterre‑Pina, Volubilis evolved from a pandemic‑era one‑man project into a fully realized lineup featuring some of the country’s strongest emerging musicians, André Dubien (vocals), Jacob Collins (drums), Alexis Rioux (guitar), and Shawn Hillman (fretless bass). Their multidisciplinary approach merges extreme metal, visual storytelling, and original sci‑fi worldbuilding into a unified artistic universe.

“Unukhalai Supernova is the ultimate climax of the album. I like to think of it as if Archspire meets Hans Zimmer. It features some of our most complex riffs and segments, plus real strings that immerse the listener in the epic finale of the record,” says Miguel Marcheterre‑Pina.

The track represents the album’s most explosive moment, an escalating, high‑velocity crescendo that showcases Volubilis’ world‑class technicality. Featuring a strings section performed by Shawn Hillman and Michelle Gao, the song blends blistering blast beats, neoclassical flourishes, and rapid‑fire vocal patterns into a cinematic, catastrophic finale.

Lyrically, “Unukhalai Supernova” depicts the cataclysmic event at the heart of Theasterion: the nearest star, Unukhalai, going supernova. The moment serves as both a literal and metaphorical rapture, experienced through the eyes of a lone human witnessing the collapse of their world.

Watch and listen to the video for “Unukhalai Supernova” via its premiere on NoCleanSinging HERE.

Released on July 10th, “Theasterion” is a sweeping sci‑fi concept album chronicling humanity’s desperate attempt to survive after Earth becomes uninhabitable. The narrative follows a colony of 11.3 million inhabitants living on a satellite orbiting the planet Theasterion until the mysterious appearance of The Prism reveals a prophecy foretelling the supernova of Unukhalai.

The album’s six tracks form a continuous narrative arc, each representing a chapter in the unfolding drama. Musically, “Theasterion” blends technical death metal, progressive metal, neoclassical influences, black metal, and melodic death metal, resulting in an immersive, cinematic listening experience.

“We want the record to feel immersive, something that transports listeners into the universe we worked tirelessly to create. Theasterion is meant to leave a legacy and inspire other creatives to pursue their dreams, even with limited resources,” says band founder Miguel Marcheterre‑Pina.

Volubilis has quickly become one of the most promising new acts in the Canadian metal community. Their intricate compositions, interdisciplinary storytelling, and world‑class musicianship have earned recognition from FACTOR, Concordia University’s FASA, and Montréal’s Art Matters Festival. Miguel’s visual and narrative work will soon expand into a full comic book during his upcoming residency at Casa na Ilha in Brazil.

Recommended for fans of Beyond Creation, Vale of Pnath, and Obscura to Ne Obliviscaris, “Theasterion” is available on all digital platforms on July 10, 2026.

Album order / digital streaming available at the following links:

Digital – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/volubilis1/theasterion​

Bandcamp – https://volubilisband.bandcamp.com/album/theasterion​

Lyric Video – Le Flamboiement Stellaire – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_DXs3fYcgw​

Track Listing:​
1. Le Flamboiement Stellaire (5:16)
2. Theasterion (6:30)
3. Homo Cumulus (5:48)
4. Ashes & Embers (4:50)
5. The Prism (4:01)
6. Unukhalai Supernova (6:24)
Total Album Length: 33min

Album Band Line-up:​
Miguel Marcheterre-Pina – Rhythm, lead and acoustic guitars, composition, concept art, lyrics.
Shawn Hilman – Fretless Bass, Contrabass
André Dubien – Vocals, lyrics on songs 03 & 06.
Jacob Collins – Drums
Alexis Rioux – Guest solos on songs 01, 02, and 03.
Michelle Gao: Violin, viola on song 06

Live Band Line-up:​
Miguel Marcheterre-Pina – Guitar, backing vocals
Shawn Hilman – Fretless Bass
André Dubien – Vocals
Jacob Collins – Drums
Alexis Rioux – Guitar

More info:

​https://bio.site/volubilis​

​https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093419962099​

​https://www.instagram.com/volubilisband/​

About: Volubilis is a Montréal‑based technical death metal band founded in 2020 by multi‑instrumentalist Miguel Marcheterre‑Pina, originally conceived as a pandemic‑era solo project. It soon expanded into a full lineup featuring André Dubien, Jacob Collins, Alexis Rioux, and Shawn Hillman, quickly establishing itself as one of Canada’s most promising new extreme‑metal acts. After releasing their first single, “Ashes & Embers” in 2025, the band now returns with their ambitious conceptual debut album, “Theasterion.” Defined by colossal blast beats, monstrous vocals, and sweeping harmonies, their sound delivers a fresh and immersive take on progressive and technical metal. Rooted in a self‑created sci‑fi universe and driven by world‑class musicianship, Volubilis push extreme metal into bold new artistic territory.

Volubilis has received support from FACTOR and Concordia University’s FASA.

– 30 –

“Theasterion, an astute masterstroke of progressive melodic death metal wrapped in thoughtful and technical aggression, deep space sci-fi storytelling and stunning amounts of conservatory-level musicianship reminiscent of Obscura, Gorod, Fleshgod Apocalypse and Beyond Creation.” – Decibel Magazine​
​
​“Volubilis is a solid techdeath band, and Miguel is one creative dude. The album cover, depicting the sacred Prism, was hand-drawn by the guy, and the concept and lyricism came directly from his brain. I love sci-fi more than the next guy, and I appreciate a solid concept record… all readers should surely spin it for the story.” – Metal Temple​
​
​“Volubilis came out swinging with a killer underground tech-death debut. You best move out of their way lest you get your face smashed.” – Angry Metal Guy​
​
​“Canada and Tech Death go together like France and wine. Please meet Volubilis, the newest star on the Canadian Tech Death firmament. Their second single ‘Le Flamboiement Stellaire’ has got everything Candian Tech Death needs: blistering guitar leads, fretless bass, blast beats and, of course, a cosmic/sci-fi story. And it even has French lyrics, how cool is that? So keep your eyes peeled for the release of their debut album “Theasterion” on July 10th if you’re digging this Stellar Blaze!” – The Prog Space​
​
​“In Theasterion, Volubilis have crafted an album that will broadly appeal to melodic and technical death metal enthusiasts…Theasterion is the perfect soundtrack to ponder our role in this chaotic universe of ours, and come to terms with your inner-nerd as an enthusiast of death metal and sci-fi alike.” – The Progressive Subway​
​
​“Whether the story connects with a listener or not, Volubilis give it there all to give legitimacy to the concept. Violin, viola and contrabass add gravitas to the excellent “Unukhalai Supernova,” which is also felt with the acoustic guitars during the finish to “Homo Cumulus.” The band pulls from all corners, from the flashy rage of Necrophagist to the orchestral waves of Fleshgod Apocalypse, for Theasterion.” – Heavy Music Headquarters​
​
​“With just 6 songs and a runtime a bit over 30 minutes, this album flies by. There is plenty of variety, melody, and speed, keeping things interesting throughout. The clean vocals tease was almost a surprise, and I would have loved for it to be more prominent in the mix, as well as utilized a bit more frequently. Overall, this is an impressive debut, and I look forward to seeing more from Volubilis, which hopefully includes a live experience in the near future. You should check this one out!” – My Metal of the Day
​
“Canadian technical death metal is frequently held in high regard. For whatever reason, those cool Canadians often manage to sound distinct from the bulk of the competition and craft excellent songs with real passion. Volubilis is another relatively new technical death metal band that makes a strong impression with *Theasterion*. Fans of lightning-fast riffing, screaming solos, an octopus-like drummer who seemingly has more limbs than the average musician, and a bassist who explores every inch of the fretboard will find plenty to enjoy here.” – Musika​
​
​“Canada’s Volubilis drops debut THEASTERION – 6 tracks of explosive technical progressive death metal. Science fiction narrative, blistering technical playing, roaring energy, brutality and melody, and a rich, expansive sound.” – Loud Enough? Magazine​
​
​“VOLUBILIS deliver an ambitious and technically impressive debut that combines progressive death metal with an engaging sci-fi narrative… Outstanding musicianship throughout, with commanding vocals, fluid fretless bass and exceptional guitar work. STANDOUT TRACKS: ”Theasterion”, ”Homo Cumulus” and ”Unukhalai Supernova”. – Metal Rager 666​
—
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0 MALEFIC Unleashes Provocative New Music Video for “Blood of the Throne” from Latest Album “Impermanence”

  • July 24, 2026
  • by Asher
  • · Malefic · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 24, 2026

MALEFIC Unleashes Provocative New Music Video for “Blood of the Throne” from Latest Album “Impermanence”

L-R – Andy McGraw – Bass ; Aaron Baumoel – Drums and Vocals ; Jason Davila – Guitars ; Sam Williams – Guitars

Photo by Jeri Mize IG@529jeri IG@vizions_of_mize.llc

Atlanta blackened death/thrash unit Malefic has dropped the official music video for “Blood of the Throne”, the explosive opening track from their latest album “Impermanence”, released this past February via Terminus Hate City. The video marks a bold visual departure for the band, one that drummer/vocalist Aaron Baumoel calls “another form of artistic expression; another layer of depth to add to the media.”​
​
​“Blood of the Throne” has long been one of Malefic’s most popular tracks, a blistering blackened thrash assault built on high‑speed precision picking, ornate drumming, and a soaring melodic break. The new video juxtaposes the band’s extreme‑metal identity with Atlanta’s dominant hip‑hop cultural influence, an intentional contrast that reflects the city they call home.
​
Baumoel acknowledges that some viewers may misinterpret the imagery. Despite anticipating criticism, the band stands firmly behind the concept and the talented women who helped bring it to life. The track itself explores the crushing realities of capitalism and modern power structures.
​
​“People will always judge based on their preconceived notion of things without ever digging in below the surface. This is part of the sickness in our society. We all know who the real demons of our society are; we just don’t agree on what the solution is,” adds Baumoel.
​
Following the video’s release, Malefic continues to push their latest album “Impermanence”, a 40‑minute whirlwind of thrash‑driven drumming, melodic black‑metal atmospheres, technical death‑metal precision, progressive rhythmic shifts, and lyrics rooted in personal struggle, societal pain, and existential reflection. Mixed by Alex Parra, the record rejects the sterile, overly‑compressed production dominating modern metal, instead embracing nuance, dynamics, and human imperfection.

“We wanted something that still showcased the nuances in the guitar work, the dynamics in the drumming, and allowed for mistakes. It just needed to feel human. The personal struggles, the current socio‑political issues, and the societal struggles all seemed extremely relatable… they tell the tale of the ever‑changing nature of life as a whole,” says Baumoel.​
​​
Formed in 2007, Malefic set out to push blackened metal into a modern direction while preserving its weight and emotional gravity. Their current lineup features Aaron Baumoel (drums/vocals), Jason Davila (guitar), Doug Rosander (bass), and Sam Williams (Guitar) (also of Cemetery Filth, Jaeger). The band’s collective experience across Atlanta’s metal scene fuels their razor‑tight live performances:
​
Watch the “Blood of the Throne” music video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Fnnqfysxxo

​Recommended for fans of Old Man’s Child, Carcass, Testament, Dissection, and The Black Dahlia Murder, “Impermanence” (released Feb 13, 2026) is available at the following links:

Vinyl – https://www.terminushatecity.com/shop​
​
Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/album/3d9ZKsvOYoYC2gi0Jrqy6Y

​

Track Listing:​
1. Blood of the Throne – [3:33]
2. In Darkest Dreams (the Reaping) – [3:44]
3. Of Gods and Man – [4:14]
4. Idiocracy – [3:56]
5. Deserter – [3:53]
6. Disembodiment – [4:39]
7. Obsidian Earth – [4:37]
8. Echoes of Silence – [4:45]
9. It Haunts – [4:01]

Album Band Line-up:​
Aaron Baumoel – Drums and Vocals
Devin Autry – Guitars
Jason Davila – Bass and Lead Guitars
Sam Williams – Lead Guitars

Live Band Line-up:​
Aaron Baumoel – Drums and Vocals
Jason Davila – Guitars
Sam Williams – Guitars
Doug Rosander – Bass

More info: https://linktr.ee/malefic​

-30-

“Drawing from black metal atmosphere, death metal precision, and thrash intensity without sounding derivative, Malefic sharpen their influences into something distinctly their own. The result isn’t just a collection of songs, but a document of survival — confronting politics, addiction, and the wreckage of human choice. Impermanence stands as a cohesive and uncompromising statement from Atlanta’s underground – dark, chaotic, and unrelenting.” – Blackmetalartists@IG

“The debut album from this Atlanta Blackened Death Thrash band is an incredible experience that hits all the right elements of the style. Blending Black Metal, Thrash Metal, Death Metal, and out-of-this-world melodies and harmonies that tie everything together. Between the clear and punchy production style and songwriting that feels endlessly inspired, this feels like the mix of The Black Dahlia Murder, Carcass, and Old Man’s Child that the world needs right now. Making an album this strong at 9 tracks and under 40 minutes is such a cool thing to see, as they give you everything they have, and you still want to see what will come next. You don’t often find a brand new band of this quality. Check out what Malefic is all about.” – Josh Rundquist, Heavy Debriefings

“This record fires on all cylinders with how heavy it is; from the intense vocals which are really impressive, to the aggressive way the guitars puncture through each and every song, it’s definitely a treat… Overall, this death metal album is very good. It has every element of a great album from the drumming to the riffs to the vocals. The energy this band has is unmatched and as I listened through it, I imagine bodies being thrown around in a mosh pit. I couldn’t recommend this album more.” – David Jones, Metal Temple Magazine

“Impermanence by @maleficbandatl has that raw blackened edge, but it’s got serious bite behind it… The riffs feel alive — sharp, urgent, and constantly pushing forward. It’s aggressive without feeling messy, and intense without turning into noise…There’s a weight to it as well. You can hear the death-metal thickness underneath, but it’s wrapped in that darker, almost suffocating atmosphere that keeps things feeling hostile…It sounds like a band that knows exactly what they’re doing and means every second of it…I really like how it never drags. It just keeps moving — blasting when it needs to, locking into tight grooves when it wants to hit harder. Nothing feels thrown in for the sake of it. Confident, focused, and properly heavy. If you’re into blackened thrash/death with real conviction behind it, this album deserves your time.” – LeightonBaller@IG

“Yes, “Impermanence” is an album that gives Black Metal a different aspect. Malefic‘s prone to make them grand and complex contributes a lot to their intent. The album is a kind of tour around Metal music subgenres that will please the fan a lot.” – Poleto, Metal Addicts (translated to english)

“Sans corpse paint, demonic titles, or masks; this band is taking the old-school approach of releasing quality heavy metal and letting the music speak for itself.” – Heavy Metal Philosophy

“Delivering nine tracks and around 38 minutes of high-octane music, this release is for the diehard fans of Black/Death Metal with plenty of melody and aggression. Headbanging from start to finish, this album will leave you neck sore and wanting more.” – Dark Emperor, Infernal Masquerade

“Since 2018, the band has navigated the friction of personal and professional upheaval, resulting in a record that feels weathered by experience rather than smoothed by polish. The agitation is audible and shows that Impermanence isn’t just a collection of songs, but a document of survival. Refusing to stay within the boundaries of any one genre, it collides sound in ways that mirror the instability of its core themes of politics, addiction, and the wreckage of human choice… “In the end, Impermanence is about consequences. The ones you fight for, the ones you abandon, and the ones that follow you regardless. It is the sound of choices made in real time, and the echoes that remain long after.” – Shelia Taylor, Amplify the Noise

“Impermanence is a must have for any thrash and/or death metal fans – a fierce, focused, and memorable release that demands to be played loud.” – Moshville Times UK

“The band has created a unique blend that doesn’t just blur the lines between thrash, black metal, death metal, and melodic metal, but completely obliterates them. It starts with the riffing, which at times veers into the death metal realm, while at other times lures the horned one out of the forest with black metal flair… MALEFIC’s Impermanence isn’t an album for relaxing or daydreaming; rather, it’s a constant adrenaline rush—almost contradicting the album title—that drags you through musical ups and downs and gives you no rest until you’re completely exhausted. The album is so intense and multifaceted at the same time that it took me several listens to find the peace to write this review.” – Maik, Zephyr’s Odem

“This is an essential listen.” – Metal Epidemic

“Overall, this album bleeds top-notch death metal because the energy the band brings is good enough to cause people to create a mosh pit. Malefic continues to prove that they have what it takes to keep thriving in the music industry as a powerful death metal band who is not afraid to show off the musical passions through their bombastic instrumentation and vocal performance.” – Cait Stoddard, MXDWN

“Forged through years of personal and professional trials, the album captures MALEFIC at their most focused and audacious, delivering a work that is as intellectually provocative as it is sonically devastating.” – El Templario del Metal

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0 A New Light for Prog Rock’s LUFEH – “End of the Tunnel” Video Marks the Band’s Next Chapter w/ New Album “Overwhelmed”

  • July 23, 2026
  • by Asher
  • · Lufeh · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 23, 2026

A New Light for Prog Rock’s LUFEH – “End of the Tunnel” Video Marks the Band’s Next Chapter w/ New Album “Overwhelmed”

Photo Credit – Joao Pinheiro

Progressive rock outfit LUFEH has released the official video for their new single “End of the Tunnel”, a cinematic and musically intricate piece that captures the emotional and spiritual rebirth at the heart of the track.

“End of the Tunnel” blends shifting atmospheres, fusion‑driven solo sections, and a cyclical guitar finale that mirrors the song’s theme of emerging from darkness with renewed clarity. Lyrically, it reflects on learning from past mistakes, enduring struggle, and finally seeing the light ahead.

Watch and listen to the video for “End of the Tunnel” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Py0BMSk0jGc

​

Released May 29th, “Overwhelmed” marks LUFEH’s most mature and melody‑driven work to date. Recorded at Sunset Sound in Los Angeles, the album balances technical progressive musicianship with memorable vocal hooks across eight tracks.

Unlike their debut “Luggage Falling Down” (2020), which began as instrumental compositions, “Overwhelmed” was crafted from the vocal melodies first, resulting in catchier choruses, richer textures, and a more fluid listening experience.

The album also introduces Ginny Luke as LUFEH’s new featured vocalist. An internationally recognized electric violinist and singer, Ginny’s performances with Foo Fighters, Britney Spears, and Snoop Dogg bring a powerful new dimension to LUFEH’s sound. Her violin appears on three tracks, “Overwhelmed,” “Feels Like I’m a Ghost,” and “Live the New Today.”

Fans can expect a blend of progressive rock, metal, fusion, jazz, and Brazilian influences, with standout moments including the exotic Bulbul Tarang on “Double Dip,” complex rhythmic structures, and emotionally charged lyrical themes.

LUFEH is a progressive rock/metal fusion group founded by drummer Lufeh Batera, who revived his musical journey after a 16‑year hiatus. What began as a solo instrumental project evolved into a full band defined by a sophisticated, progressive, refined, modern, and intriguing musical identity.

The band’s core members have played together in various forms for over 30 years, creating a deeply collaborative, ego‑free creative environment. Guitarist Deio Tambasco joined in 2025, reuniting with Batera and bassist Duca Tambasco from their early band Anno Domini.

LUFEH’s sound draws from Dream Theater, Rush, Vola, Tool, and Haken, blending technical mastery with emotional depth. Their live performances combine flawless musicianship with immersive lighting and video for a truly unforgettable experience.

Listen to “Overwhelmed” at the following links:

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/17TBW46gFIisvVekW4yyOW

Bandcamp – https://lufehband.bandcamp.com/​

Track Listing:​
1. He Commands The Sun and The Stars – 4:22
2. Breathe – 4:03
3. Double Dip – 4:39
4. Overwhelmed – 4:30
5. Feels Like I’m A Ghost – 5:43
6. Live The New Today – 4:50
7. War of Emotions – 3:50
8. End of the Tunnel – 4:18

Album and Live Band Line Up:​
Duca Tambasco – bass and backing vocals
Deio Tambasco – guitar and backing vocals
Gera Penna – keyboard and backing vocals
Lufeh Batera – Drums
Ginny Luke – vocals (featuring)

More Info:

​https://www.lufehband.com​

​https://www.facebook.com/lufehband​

​https://www.instagram.com/lufehband/​

About:

LUFEH is a progressive rock/metal band blending technical precision with emotional depth and genre‑bending influences. Formed by drummer Lufeh after a long hiatus from music, the band now features guitarist Deio Tambasco, bassist Duca Tambasco, keyboardist/producer Gera Penna, and vocalist/violinist Ginny Luke. Their sound draws inspiration from Dream Theater, Rush, Vola, Tool, Haken, and Brazilian musical traditions.

Album Recording Credits:​
• All songs performed by: Duca Tambasco, Deio Tambasco, Gera Penna, Lufeh Batera, and Ginny Luke
• All songs written by: Duca Tambasco, Deio Tambasco, Gera Penna, and Lufeh Batera
• Produced by: Gera Penna
• Mixed by: Adair Daufembach
• Mastered by: Adair Daufembach
• Album Artwork by: Lufeh Batera

– 30 –

“Lufeh ‘s music is a beautiful piece of creation, flowing into your brain like one of the best album ever made. A brilliant singer who manage the melodies and different parts like she is the whole music. The intensity and power sounds like the band has been here for years. A masterpiece to own without thinking 100/100.” – The Metal Mag​
​
​“What grabbed me most on the album, besides the deeply personal approach to songwriting, was the level of talent the band has. We all know that talent isn’t the measuring stick to success, but it never hurts. This band has plenty, but they don’t let it overtake their sound. This was a feel good album with plenty of substance.” – Metal Temple (2026 – Overwhelmed)​
​
​“My take on the album: I do like that Lufeh do things their own way. For me this is an exceptional album with a fresh take on traditional metal. Ginny is a gem on vocals and the use of instruments is damn good. A flawless album that deserve nothing less than the perfect 10.” – Project Metal Music​
​
​“You need to take a listen here, and you’ll probably buy this album. Great!” – Melodic.net (2026 – Overwhelmed)
​
“If their debut consisted of showing their instrumental muscles, their next album Overwhelmed (released May 29) seems to focus on purely melodic choruses. It has the complexity of Haken or Rush, but with choruses that really stick in your head.” – Radio Papy Jeff (2026 – Overwhelmed)​
​
​“With a renewed lineup and a track record of progressive evolution, Lufeh delivers here a disciplined, technically formidable body of work that will satisfy those who take their Heavy Prog seriously.” – Progressive Rock Journal​
​
​“Very soulful breaks.Like the dynamics. The drummer is very powerful and precise. Like Rush if they were a soul band.” – CFRU 93.3 FM – Planet Groove (Guelph, ON, Canada)
​
“With „Overwhelmed“ LUFEH are opening a new chapter – more emotional, melodic and at the same time more powerful than ever. The title track of their upcoming album combines progressive virtuosity with haunting storytelling and marks an impressive evolution – an intense foretaste of what happened on March 29th. May 2026 is coming.” – Metalogy (2026 – Overwhelmed)
​
“Heavy prog shines with the new single ‘He Commands the Sun and the Stars’ from LUFEH. Dream Theater and Shadow Gallery fans will find a lot to love here including a spotlight performance from featured vocalist and electric violinist Ginny Luke. Musically the band doesn’t disappoint with soaring keys, complex percussion, driving riffs, strolling bass lines…all at a high level, which is what is demanded when you enter the sacred space of progressive rock. Just as much a beautiful performance as it is a breathtaking adventure, this track raises expectations for the new album “Overwhelmed” which can’t get here fast enough on May 29th. Catch LUFEH on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll (2026 – Overwhelmed)
​
“Overwhelmed‘ may be born from pressure, but its greatest achievement is the way it turns that pressure into motion, melody, and release.” – Infrared Magazine (2026 – Overwhelmed)

“Great prog album, love Feels Like I’m A Ghost song” – The Chill dude on the Couch (2026 – Overwhelmed)
​​
​“”Overwhelmed” is a strong progressive rock album, full of skill, emotion and smart writing. Lufeh do not bury the listener under endless technical games, which is a good call. The songs have complex parts, odd rhythms, heavy passages and fusion touches, yet the main focus stays on melody and flow. That is where the album wins most of its points.” – Hevay Metal Darkness (2026 – Overwhelmed)​
​
​“Throw four talented musicians, the sound of Dream Theater and Rush, the songwriting craft of Aerosmith in their glory years, and a singing voice that is somewhere between Leslie Hunt (District 97) and Ann Wilson (Heart) in a blender and the result is ‘Overwhelming’. That is the very appropriate title of the second album by the American LUFEH.” – Progerweld

—

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0 ESHTADUR Unveils Music Video “Into The Woods” From New Album “In Darkness All Shadows Gone” Out Oct 2026

  • July 22, 2026
  • by Asher
  • · Eshtadur · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 22, 2026

ESHTADUR Unveils Music Video “Into The Woods” From New Album “In Darkness All Shadows Gone” Out Oct 2026

Colombian melodic black/death metal band ESHTADUR announce their new full-length album, “In Darkness All Shadows Gone“, due for release on October 2nd, 2026 through Rockshots Records.

The announcement is accompanied by “Into The Woods”, the first single and official video introducing the musical and conceptual journey behind the record.

Developed over four years, “In Darkness All Shadows Gone” consists of twelve compositions combining melodic black and death metal, symphonic arrangements, layered vocals, Tuvan throat singing and atmospheric passages. Recorded with the Caldas Symphonic Orchestra, the album expands the band’s established sound while maintaining the combination of heavy riffing, dark melodies and orchestral textures that has shaped its identity.

The album follows a conceptual journey through mysticism, transformation and inner transmutation. At the centre of the narrative stands The Crow, a shamanic figure moving between existence, death, emptiness and the unknown. Acting as both master and apprentice, The Crow guides the listener through a process of isolation, self-discovery and spiritual awakening, where darkness becomes not only an oppressive force but also a path towards understanding the self.

Across the record, ESHTADUR explore the relationship between darkness and the light contained within each individual. The songs draw upon occult symbolism, cosmic philosophy, ancestral knowledge and human emotion, forming a continuous narrative rather than a collection of disconnected tracks. Musically, black and death metal alternate as leading forces throughout the album, supported by melodic writing, cinematic orchestration and folk-rooted elements.

Jorg August comments on the creation of the album:

“We worked on this material for four years. It is a long album with twelve tracks, symphonic arrangements, a real orchestra, many vocal layers and Tuvan voices. At times, it felt like a giant puzzle, but everything finally came together. We are proud of the result and grateful to everyone who helped us build it. A crow is calling.”

The first single, “Into The Woods,” represents the call to initiation and the first step into the album’s inner world. The listener is invited to leave behind external noise and enter the forest alone, confronting silence, memory, and self-delusion. Inspired by contemplative philosophies and the idea of returning to nature as a means of self-discovery, the song presents the forest as both a physical place and a metaphorical descent into consciousness.

Musically, “Into The Woods” combines fast melodic and aggressive guitar riffs, alternate-picked passages, dark orchestration, dissonant elements, ancestral chants and forceful vocals. The track establishes the balance between aggression, melody and atmosphere that continues throughout the album, while its lyrics address inner turmoil, past trauma and the need to confront fear before transformation can begin.

The accompanying official video focuses on frontman Jorg August, who is guided by the symbolic Crow into the forest and towards the first dimension of the album’s narrative. The visual interpretation reinforces the song’s themes of solitude, initiation and departure, presenting the journey as an individual mission in search of a deeper understanding of the self.

Listen to “Into The Woods”: ​https://lnk.to/N8qobN

​Watch the official video: ​https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ewIYMme4L1c

​

“In Darkness All Shadows Gone” will be available from October 2nd, 2026 through Rockshots Records. The album can be pre-ordered now from the Rockshots Records store at:
​https://rockshots.eu/cuhb5ys9ncs1ndx​

The album was produced by Jorg August, who also wrote the music, lyrics, compositions, and orchestral arrangements. The recordings took place at RockStar Studios Colombia, while the orchestra was recorded at Batuta’s Theater in Manizales, Colombia. The album was mixed and mastered by Tomasz “Zed” Zalewski, with additional mixing and mastering by Chris Clancy on “Fire Above Mountain Below” and “Umbra.” The cover artwork was created by Valesia Obscura.
​
​For fans of: Septicflesh, Dissection, At The Gates.

Track Listing:​
1. Age of Antumbra – 2:00
2. Into The Woods – 4:41
3. Umbra – 6:22
4. August’s Burdens – 4:59
5. Fire Above Mountain Below – 5:08
6. Old Shaman Blind – 5:08
7. Thunderground – 3:40
8. Ruler of the Lake – 5:14
9. A Black Winged Waltz – 9:23
10. Nebulae (Virgo) – 5:09
11. Omen of Millennia – 3:56
12. Soy Real – 5:11
​
​ESHTADUR are:
Jorg August – Vocals, guitars
Camilo Barbosa – Lead guitars
Andres Gonzalez – Bass
David Lopez – Drums

More info:

​https://rockshots.eu/​

​https://www.facebook.com/EshtadurOfficial/​

​https://www.instagram.com/eshtadur/​

BIOGRAPHY:

Founded in Colombia and active since 2007, ESHTADUR combines Gothenburg-influenced death metal, black metal and classical composition with an interest in poetry, mysticism, existence and cosmogony. The band has toured extensively across Europe and North America, sharing stages with artists including Behemoth, Deicide, Vader, Hate and Exodus and appearing at events such as 70000 Tons of Metal, Rock al Parque and Grita Fest.

-30-

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0 Canadian Doom / Sludge DESTROY MY BRAINS Prepare to Unleash “WILT” – The Final Chapter of Their Trauma‑Forged Five‑Album Saga; Streaming Singles “OCI” and “Decontribute”

  • July 22, 2026
  • by Asher
  • · Destroy My Brains · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 22, 2026

DESTROY MY BRAINS Prepare to Unleash “WILT” – The Final Chapter of Their Trauma‑Forged Five‑Album Saga

Streaming Singles “OCI (Obsessive Compulsive Imploder)” and “Decontribute”

Destroy My Brains – L-R – Rob – Bass, Jarret – Vocals, Guitar, Chase – Guitar, Jadan – Drums

From the frozen prairies of Lloydminster, Canada, doom/sludge cult Destroy My Brains unleash “WILT” on August 14th, 2026, the catastrophic final chapter in their long‑planned five‑album saga. Beginning with “Worthless” (2018), followed by “InsignifiCan’t” (2020), “Lifeless” (2020), “Tormented” (2022), and now culminating in “WILT” (2026), the band has executed a conceptual arc conceived from day one, each release carving deeper into their signature themes of self‑destruction, trauma, and sonic decay.

“We already picked the titles of the albums so that all the first letters would spell WILT,” says vocalist/guitarist Jarret
​
​Destroy My Brains deal in corrosive, melting, abhorrent, Crowbar‑worshipping sludge, and “WILT” drives that identity straight into the ground. The album hits with pounding grooves, chugs heavy enough to buckle steel, soul‑removing drums, and vocals that scorch everything in their path. Rather than reinventing themselves, the band sharpened their already‑lethal formula, each member pouring their own darkness into the record until it becomes a collective collapse. Frontman Jarret pushes deeper than ever, turning “WILT” into both a sonic beating and a personal exorcism.

“We didn’t reinvent anything. We sharpened, hardened, turned it up louder… and put some of the darkest, most meaningful lyrics we have ever done. I got deep inside to a place of furious hate and pain… trauma I caused myself and others… self-destruction, dying, drug/alcohol abuse, and hatred towards others leading to their ultimate ruin,” adds Jarret.

“WILT” unfolds as a seven‑part descent into psychological collapse and sludge‑soaked extremity, each track carving out its own form of emotional and sonic violence. It opens with OCI, a claustrophobic portrayal of OCD spiraling into anxiety, compulsion, and eventual institutionalization, before shifting into Burn the Virgin, a ritualistic Walpurgisnacht sacrifice story that moves from eerie melody into suffocating doom. Decontribute serves as the band’s manifesto of societal decay, embracing personal ruin with lines like “YOU CAN WATCH ME, FALL APART… I DECONTRIBUTE TO REALITY.” The album sinks deeper with Avulsion, the bleakest and most doom‑laden track, using the imagery of bodily tearing to mirror lifelong psychological torment. Downgrade drags listeners through punk‑rooted sludge about manipulation, overdose, and satanic delusion, while Spill confronts childhood violence and emotional shutdown, ending with the devastating admission “I CAN’T FEEL, I DON’T FEEL, I WON’T FEEL, ANYTHING EVER…” Finally, the 11‑minute title track Wilt stands as the album’s tragic apex, confronting the wounds of child abuse and opening with the harrowing line “YOU DESTROYED THE CHILD WITHIN ME.” Together, these songs form a cohesive, crushing exploration of trauma, degradation, and the darkest corners of human experience.

“WILT” is Destroy My Brains at their most evolved, most hateful, and most emotionally devastating. “We are pleased to degrade and devolve you while you take in our sonic displeasures,” comments Jarret.

Destroy My Brains is currently streaming two singles, “OCI (Obsessive Compulsive Imploder)” and “Decontribute,” in lead-up to the release of “WILT”, with a third, “Downgrade,” being revealed with a music video in the coming weeks.

Listen at the following links:

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/67kJ5QtfRsT22WZpIZ2NKu

​OCI (Obsessive Compulsive Imploder) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQ5BJsJeI8g

Decontribute – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4BZ4tET6r4

​Recommended for fans of Eyehategod, Crowbar, Buzz-oven, Acid Bath, and Electric Wizard, the album pre-order for “WILT” (release date August 14th, 2026) is available at https://destroymybrains.bandcamp.com/​

Track Listing:​
1. OCI (Obsessive Compulsive Imploder) – 4:32
2. Burn The Virgin – 10:30
3. Decontribute – 7:28
4. Avulsion – 7:08
5. Downgrade – 5:14
6. Spill – 9:30
7. Wilt – 11:40
Album Length: 56:03

More info: https://linktr.ee/destroymybrains​

-30-

“Lyrically, this is a hateful and hopeless screed, the vicious and fatalistic thoughts of someone falling apart and drowning in intoxicants.” No Clean Singing (Decontribute single off Wilt – 2026)

“The riffing swarms like carnivorous insects; the bass brutally thunders; the drums cut like a dismembering ax; and the vocals sound like a screaming person being strangled, in arms with a growling pit bull.” No Clean Singing

“Catharsis has been defined as “the process of releasing, and thereby providing relief from, strong or repressed emotions.” DESTROY MY BRAINS is a vehicle created to do just that.” – Doomed & Stoned (Tormented – 2022)

“a coup de grace of sludgy Crowbar riffs and throat shredding screams of hate” Those Once Loyal (Tormented – 2022)

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Jon Asher – Music Publicist
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0 Victoria’s Story Comes Alive! VICTORIA LIES Unveils First Single “Red” From Debut Concept Record “Vendetta” Out October 2026

  • July 21, 2026
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Uncategorized · Victoria Lies

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 21, 2026

Victoria’s Story Comes Alive! VICTORIA LIES Unveils First Single “Red” From Debut Concept Record “Vendetta” Out October 2026

L-R – Jay Powell (Bass), Brett Hetherington (vocals), James Cuncanon (Drums), Chris Koehler (Guitars), Rory Fitzsimmons (Guitars)

Photo Credit – Heather Kim

Calgary, Canada metalcore storytellers Victoria Lies have announced the first single from their long‑awaited forthcoming debut full‑length, “Vendetta.” The track, “Red,” arrives today alongside a cinematic music video that plunges listeners directly into the dark, lore‑rich universe the band has spent years constructing.
​
​“Red” marks the moment where the album’s central character, Victoria, transforms emotionally, psychologically, and violently. The song’s explosive contrast between chaotic verses and a soaring, cathartic chorus mirrors the character’s unraveling and rebirth, and it stands as one of the band’s most visceral, immediate compositions.

“The defining moment when Victoria becomes Victoria… heavy, disorienting, and urgent,” adds vocalist Brett Hetherington.
​
The video for “Red” brings Victoria’s world to life with the band’s signature theatricality. Their dancer and on‑stage embodiment of Victoria, Sadie Rieb, appears throughout, adding movement, narrative weight, and emotional intensity to the visual storytelling.
​
A memorable moment from the recording sessions made its way into the energy of the performance. During vocal tracking, the studio was overtaken by the Euro football finals. Producer Scott Bennett hauled in a TV, guitarist Rory Fitzsimmons spent 90 minutes yelling at the screen, and the chaos fueled Brett’s most ferocious screams.

“All this yelling really helped Brett get in the mindset for laying down his screams on one of our angriest songs,” adds the band.

The single and music video for “Red” are available at the following links:

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

​Digital Single – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/victorialies/red

​

“Vendetta” is a 10‑track concept album that blends melodic metalcore, groove metal, and genre‑bending experimentation. The band describes it as a “constantly evolving universe” filled with narrative twists, emotional depth, and unexpected musical turns, from trap beats to saxophone lines.
​
The album explores themes of power abuse, violence against women, personal grief, societal collapse, and moral ambiguity, all woven through the story of Victoria, a character who appears in choreography, prose, and live performance.
​​
“We wanted to give listeners a journey. Not just ten heavy songs, something with twists, turns, and storytelling,” says bassist Jay Powell.

“When you hear it, you know you’re in Victoria’s universe,” adds Fitzsimmons.
​
Formed in 2023, Victoria Lies is a Canadian metalcore band known for blending heavy grooves with theatrical storytelling. Their lineup includes vocalist Brett Hetherington, drummer James Cuncannon, guitarists Chris Koehler and Rory Fitzsimmons, and bassist Jay Powell. The band has previously released singles “Trial By Fire,” “…Ready for it?” and “Zerotonin,” earning thousands of streams and building anticipation for their debut album.
​
They’ve performed across Alberta, including Calgary, Drumheller, Lethbridge, and Edmonton, and appeared at Gatorfest II and Decimate Metalfest.

Recommended for fans of Bad Omens, Atreyu, AFI, and Killswitch Engage, “Vendetta” is due out on October 30th, 2026 via Black Cat Records.

Album pre-save – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/victorialies/vendetta​

Track Listing:​
1. Victoria – 1:40
2. We Ignite – 3:25
3. Terra Critical – 4:00
4. Laced With Hate – 6:30
5. Red – 2:44
6. Weaving Webs – 4:18
7. Trial by Fire – 3:33
8. Absurd – 4:21
9. Red Lips, Loaded Gun – 5:52
10. Ravens – 3:41
11. Truth and Sugar – 4:15
Album Length: 44:23

Album and Live Band Line-up:​
Jay Powell (Bass)
Brett Hetherington (Vocals)
James Cuncanon (Drums)
Chris Koehler (Guitars)
Rory Fitzsimmons (Guitars)

More info: Victorialies.com | Facebook.com/victorialiesband | Instagram.com/victorialiesband | Tiktok.com/@victoria.lies

-30-

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0 CONFLUX COLLECTIVE Unleashes “Reincarnation” Drum Playthrough via Sick Drummer Magazine; New Album “In the Wake of Saturn” (ft. members of ex-Augury, ex‑Decrepit Birth, Derelict, Gross Misconduct, Continuum and more!)

  • July 20, 2026
  • by Asher
  • · Conflux Collective · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 20, 2026

CONFLUX COLLECTIVE Unleashes “Reincarnation” Drum Playthrough via Sick Drummer Magazine

Out Now! New Album “In the Wake of Saturn” (ft. members of ex-Augury, ex‑Decrepit Birth, Derelict, Gross Misconduct, Continuum and more!)

L-R – Max Lussier, Jesse Brint, Mallika Sundaramurthy, Tommy McKinnon, Eric Burnet, Jeffrey Mott

PHOTOGRAPHER CREDITS: Joe Diaz, Derek Carr of Visionsinpixels, Mat Barbeau, Tania Hébert

Conflux Collective has unleashed a blistering new drum playthrough for their track “Reincarnation,” premiering now on Sick Drummer Magazine’s YouTube channel. Performed by drummer Tommy McKinnon, the video showcases the track’s intricate rhythmic architecture, explosive transitions, and the uncompromising technicality that defines the band’s sound. “Reincarnation” stands as one of the album’s core compositions, an embodiment of rebirth, resilience, and the project’s brutal‑progressive identity.
​
The track was originally written by guitarist Chase Fraser during the band’s early creative period, with McKinnon recording an early version years before the project fell dormant. Its revival marks a symbolic moment for Conflux Collective; the band lives again. Vocalist Jeff Mott delivers a powerful interpretation of McKinnon’s lyrics, bringing emotional weight and clarity to the song’s themes of overcoming desire and reclaiming purpose.

Watch the drum playthrough at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbTiSuDjiZM

​The drum‑playthrough premiere supports Conflux Collective’s long‑awaited full‑length album, “In the Wake of Saturn,” released June 19th. The record is a progressive, brutal, melodic, and uncompromising journey through pain, fear, defeat, survival, and ultimately rebirth. Written and assembled over several years, the album is a testament to perseverance and creative willpower.
​
Across eight tracks, listeners are pulled through blast‑driven chaos, atmospheric tension, crushing grooves, and climactic melodic peaks. The album blends the ferocity of ’90s death metal with modern technical precision, featuring contributions from a powerhouse roster of extreme vocalists that includes Jesse Brint (Gross Misconduct), Mallika Sundaramurthy (Emasculator, ex‑Abnormality), Jeffrey Mott (The Monster Factory, Growlers Choir), Eric Burnet (Derelict, Samskaras), and Max Lussier (Derelict), who also contributes a blistering guitar solo
​
Mixed and mastered by Jeanne Comateuse of Magma Art & Sound, the album stands as a DIY triumph, raw, honest, and fiercely unique. As vocalist Jesse Brint put it, “It’s a journey.”​
​
​Conflux Collective was born from a chance reunion in a Montreal fast‑food joint after a King Diamond concert. Guitarist Chase Fraser (Continuum, ex‑Decrepit Birth, ex‑Animosity) and drummer Tommy McKinnon (Derelict, Akurion, ex‑Neuraxis, ex‑Augury) discovered they had once shared a stage years earlier in San Francisco. A spontaneous jam session soon followed, and within an hour, a full song had taken shape. Within six weeks, they had written and recorded their debut EP, “The Inception” (2016).
​
​Conflux Collective was never intended to be a traditional band. It is a collective, built on collaboration with diverse extreme vocalists and driven by a desire to push progressive technical death metal into new emotional territory. After years of dormancy, McKinnon resurrected the project, rewriting material, recording all bass tracks by ear, and crafting lyrics drawn from deeply personal experiences.
​
The result is a multi‑dimensional, vocalist‑driven album that defies convention and embraces transformation. Though Conflux Collective has no plans for live performances, the project stands as a meeting point for extreme music’s most creative forces.

Recommended for fans of Cryptopsy, Necrophagist, Decrepit Birth, Augury, and Beyond Creation, “In the Wake of Saturn” will be available at the following links:

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/album/10ynZM1hUezpQLfV9hyJwZ

Album – https://confluxcollective.bandcamp.com/​

Vinyl and CD order – https://elasticstage.com/confluxcollective​

Merch / Apparel available – https://confluxco-shop.fourthwall.com/​

Lyric Video – Reincarnation – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nce0-kz3nTk

​Lyric Video – Devouring Light – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skYaLYoVjX8

​Lyric Video – “The Antidote” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgHR0TOQtcI

​

Track Listing:​
1. The Antidote – 3:02
2. Devoid of True Form – 2:39
3. Ethereal Executioner – 4:45
4. Devouring Light – 4:59
5. Blood from a Rock 4:18
6. Reincarnation – 3:20
7. In the Wake of Saturn – 2:29
8. Desperate Post-Humanist – 5:18
Album Length: 30:53

Album Band Line-up:​
Guitar: Chase Fraser (Continuum)
Vocals: Eric Burnet (Derelict), Max Lussier (Derelict), Jesse Brint (Gross Misconduct), Mallika Sundaramurthy (Emasculator), Jeff Mott (Hollow, Monster Factory)
Additional guitar, bass, and drums: Tommy McKinnon
Track 1,2, 3, 6. Music: Chase Fraser. Lyrics: Tommy McKinnon
Track 4. Music: Chase Fraser. Lyrics: Jesse Brint
Track 5, 7. Music & Lyrics: Tommy McKinnon
Track 8. Music: Tommy McKinnon. Lyrics: Eric Burnet

More info:

​https://www.facebook.com/confluxcollective​

​https://www.instagram.com/confluxco/​

About: Formed in Montreal after a chance post‑show encounter, The Conflux Collective is a progressive technical death‑metal project built on collaboration, experimentation, and emotional depth. Featuring contributions from some of the genre’s most distinctive vocalists, the band blends the ferocity of old‑school death metal with the precision and ambition of modern tech‑death. In the Wake of Saturn marks their first full‑length album.

Album Recording Credits:​
• All songs performed by: Conflux Collective
• All songs written by: Conflux Collective
• Produced by: Tommy McKinnon
• Mixed by: Jeanne Comateuse at Magma Art & Sound
• Mastered by: Jeanne Comateuse at Magma Art & Sound
• Album Artwork by: Filip Ivanovic
• Member of SOCAN

Affiliated links:

Mix engineer: https://magma-sound.com

Derelict: https://derelictmetal.bandcamp.com

Akurion: https://akurion-ca.bandcamp.com/album…

Emasculator: https://www.instagram.com/emasculator_bdm

Mallika: https://www.instagram.com/mallika_sun

Gross Misconduct: https://grossmisconduct.bandcamp.com

The Monster Factory: https://www.themonster-factory.com/en

Coma Cluster Void: https://comaclustervoid.com

– 30 –

“The song’s (Devouring Light) opening moments create tension and are viscerally frightening. They combine wrenching howls, swaths of eerily ringing guitar, immense groaning bass tones, and methodically bludgeoning beats. As the growled words (also frightening) cut loose, the tension doesn’t really break but the music morphs. The dissonant notes miserably writhe and dart away in strange angles; the drums variably clatter and slug in ways that both exacerbate the music’s feeling of dementia and create a vivid rhythmic counterpoint to the increasingly hallucinatory effect of the fretwork. A shrill and swirling guitar solo rises up, creating its own kind of ecstatic counterpoint to the music’s chilling manifestations of confusion and despair. Yet those very same melodic motifs that make the music so unsettling also turn out to be hooks: as they surface and re-surface, strangely ringing and warping, they dig in — as the bass-and-drum performances continue landing body blows while creating their own mystifying attractions. Although this song, unlike the album’s first single, isn’t a high-speed cavalcade of technically eye-popping adventurousness, it’s still a technically impressive exercise, one that deploys the musician’s technical skills to create chilling hallucinatory effects.” – No Clean Singing​
​
​“Centered around guitarist Chase Fraser (Continuum, ex‑Decrepit Birth, ex‑Animosity) and drummer Tommy McKinnon (Derelict, Akurion, ex‑Neuraxis, ex‑Augury) and featuring guest appearance contributions from members of Gross Misconduct, Emasculator, Samskaras, Hollow and Monster Factory, the Conflux Collective is a true collective that puts ’90s lensed, technical death metal in its creative crosshairs.” – Decibel Magazine – Track Premiere: Getting Cosmic with The Conflux Collective’s “In the Wake of Saturn”

“Canada’s Conflux Collective return with IN THE WAKE OF SATURN – 8 crazed pieces of death metal infused with manic energy, prog and tech metal complexity and loaded with mean aggression! Totally insane!” – Loud Enough Magazine​
​
​“This release sits far outside ordinary death metal territory, travelling through unknown and uncharted musical ground. Structurally, the songs do not follow the traditional verse-bridge-chorus form. That same refusal is emphatic in the lyrics, which follow no fixed pattern and take a far more narrative shape, moving closely alongside musical sections that stubbornly break free of conventional forms. The intensely personal lyrics gain even more weight through the voices of Max, Jeffrey, Jesse, Mallika and Eric, whose performances add further emotional gravity to this narrative journey. The final result is a rough-hewn creation that defies familiar musical patterns and lyrical norms. It is indifferent to the world outside and makes that clear in every possible way. Yet, almost by accident, it points the way forward, leaving a wholly personal imprint for those who follow. 10/10” – Metal Ourgio

“”In the Wake of Saturn” is a technically impressive and pleasingly compact debut album. Conflux Collective combine the raw energy of 90s death metal with modern technical death metal, progressive structures, heavy grooves, and melodic guitar work. “Devouring Light , ” “Blood from a Rock , ” “Reincarnation,” and the atmospheric “Desperate Post-Humanist” are particularly compelling. The very clean guitar production occasionally sounds a bit clinical, while the five vocalists offer less nuanced vocal range than their number would suggest. Nevertheless, there’s clearly more to these eight songs than just technical fretboard virtuosity. The album convincingly tells a story of loss, survival, and rebirth, and ends its assault before the complex arrangements can become tiresome. Saturn, at least, is awake—and after these 31 minutes, he probably needs a coffee.” – Metal Underground Austria​
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