Category: Music News

0 GANNONDORF Crowned WACKEN METAL BATTLE USA 2026 Champions! Set To Play WACKEN OPEN AIR!

June 17, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Uncategorized · Wacken Metal Battle USA

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 17, 2026

GANNONDORF Crowned WACKEN METAL BATTLE USA 2026 Champions! Set To Play WACKEN OPEN AIR!

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

The 2026 WMBU champion will receive the following:
– A slot at the 2026 Wacken Open Air Festival.
– Full professional backline provided.
– $1,000 USD towards flights to Germany.
– VIP camping at the festival.

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.

About the bands:

GANNONDORF (San Diego, CA) (2026 WMBU Champion) – https://www.facebook.com/Gannondorfmetaloffical

Gannondorf is an avant‑garde black metal project from the San Diego/Escondido, California area, originally formed in 2008. The band began as a fusion of black metal and video‑game‑inspired themes, later evolving through a period under the name Gravespell before returning to their original identity in 2020. Their music blends experimental, gothic, and extreme‑metal elements, drawing on dark, apocalyptic, and fantastical themes. Gannondorf’s most notable release is The Nightmare Institution (2024), an eight‑track, hour‑long album praised for its technical guitar work, atmospheric horror‑driven aesthetics, and genre‑blending approach. The project remains active and independent, continuing to expand its sound while maintaining a cult following within the California extreme‑metal underground.

FATE DEFINED (Spokane, WA) – https://fatedefined.com/about-us-epk

Fate Defined is a heavy metal powerhouse from Spokane, Washington, formed in late 2020. Blending modern aggression with old‑school thrash, they aim to define the Pacific Northwest metal sound. Their debut EP, World in Flames, dropped in May 2024, fueling a run of headlining shows, festivals, their first music video, and a tour that included the historic Knitting Factory. The band kicked off 2025 with multiple sold‑out shows, including a support slot for (Hed) P.E. The quintet continues to hit stages while writing their next record.

NEMESIS (Houston, TX) – https://www.nemesisriffs.com/

NEMESIS began as the brainchild of guitarist Nick Broussard, who started writing music soon after picking up the instrument at 13. Through high school collaborations and the unexpected isolation of COVID, Nick wrote an entire album and shaped the band’s identity before lineup changes stalled their early momentum. After reconnecting with drummer Alex and teaming up with Reagan and Ezra, the revived lineup recorded and released their debut album False Reality in summer 2023. The band quickly hit the stage, opening for major acts like Fueled by Fire, Metal Church, Armored Saint, EYEHATEGOD, Goatwhore, and Accept while performing across Texas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma. Now finishing their second album, NEMESIS enters the 2026 Wacken Metal Battle as the reigning Texas State Champion, heading to San Diego to compete for the national title.

RAMTHA (St. Petersburg, FL) – https://linktr.ee/ramthabandfl

Ramtha is an extreme‑metal band from St. Petersburg/Tampa, Florida, known for fusing death metal, thrash, grind, and hardcore into a high‑intensity hybrid sound. Active since 2022, the band has carved out a distinct identity within Florida’s extreme‑metal scene. They’ve released two EPs, Void Tyrant (2023) and Through Eyes of Death (2024), and are currently developing a third EP slated for 2026. Ramtha has earned a reputation for explosive live performances, frequently hitting Tampa’s Brass Mug and sharing stages with major acts such as Exhorder, Crypta, Worm, Gruesome, Artillery, Killing Addiction, Bandit, Gillian Carter, Dayglo Abortions, and Hong Kong Fck You. With momentum continuing to build, the band remains a rising force in the underground.

THE VICTORIOUS DEAD (New York, NY) – https://linktr.ee/hailtvd

Founded in 2023 by guitarist Jonathan Theriault, The Victorious Dead is on a mission to unleash crushing and melodic metal upon the world. Joined by drummer Jude Austin and bassist Andrew Klabin, the band released their debut EP Life of Death in June of 2024. The Sound The crushing impact of The Victorious Dead’s sound is not at all compromised by their catchy hooks and breathtaking moments. With influences such as Iron Maiden, Amon Amarth, Mastodon, and Enslaved, both musicality and demolishing riffage take top priority.

THROUGH THE OCULUS (Apple Valley, CA) – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572792274421

Through the Oculus is a female‑fronted metal band from Apple Valley, California, formed in 2017. The group blends powerful vocals, melodic guitar work, thunderous bass, and driving drums into a modern heavy‑metal sound that quickly sets them apart in the Southern California scene. Within a short time, they began performing at iconic venues including The Viper Room, Whisky a Go Go, and Adelanto Stadium, building momentum through high‑energy live shows. Their self‑titled debut album showcased a dynamic mix of hard‑rock and metal influences, earning attention for its blend of personal lyrical themes and fictional narratives of quests, revenge, sacrifice, and destruction. The band continues to write new material and perform actively, solidifying their reputation as one of the region’s rising heavy‑music acts.

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 THE MOURNING Unveils New Members To Lineup Jason Ashcraft (Helion Prime) and Alon Mei-Tal (Helion Prime, Nili Brosh) + New Video “If I Die I Die”

June 17, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · The Mourning

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 17, 2026

THE MOURNING Unveils New Members To Lineup Jason Ashcraft (Helion Prime) and Alon Mei-Tal (Helion Prime, Nili Brosh)

+ New Video “If I Die I Die”

L-R – Alex Nasla, Nanda Hayek, Jason Berlin, Jason Ashcraft, Alon Mei-Tal, Johnny Ray, Francesco Pinter.

Photo credit: Alex Nasla

Progressive metal collective The Mourning announces a major evolution in their lineup with the official addition of guitarist Jason Ashcraft (Helion Prime, Lunar, Planeswalker) and bassist Alon Mei‑Tal (Helion Prime, Levinia). Their arrival marks a pivotal moment for the band, expanding its sonic depth, technical range, and creative firepower as they enter their next chapter.

Ashcraft expresses his excitement about joining the fold:

“I’m super stoked to be coming on officially with The Mourning. I’ve had the pleasure of working with a few of the members for a while, and everyone has been very welcoming. From a musical side, it’s been fun stepping out of my comfort zone and challenging myself to explore new avenues. I look forward to future adventures with The Mourning!”

Mei‑Tal adds:

“It’s official! I’ve been a friend of the band for a couple of years now, helping out on shows, recordings, etc., but I’m very pleased to be one of the gang now. The Mourning is a great group of talented musicians and quality humans. The songs are proggy enough to be interesting, but catchy enough to be fun and memorable, and I can’t wait to join them in bringing listeners more epic tunes and top‑tier performances!”

With both musicians now fully integrated, The Mourning steps into its most ambitious and musically dynamic era yet.

Alongside the lineup announcement, The Mourning recently unveiled their powerful new single and cinematic music video, “If I Die I Die.” The track introduces the band’s renewed sonic identity, heavier, darker, and more emotionally charged, while showcasing the expanded dual‑vocal dynamic between founding vocalist Johnny Ray and newly joined Brazilian co‑vocalist Nanda Hayek (OverAlive).

Built on the band’s signature blend of cinematic songwriting, progressive metal precision, and layered vocal interplay, the song confronts fear, existential dread, and the psychological exhaustion of living under its weight. Its core declaration, “I’m tired of all this fear, I’m done living in fear”, captures the track’s central theme of liberation through surrender.

Written by Francesco Pinter and Johnny Ray, and produced, mixed, and mastered by Alex Nasla (Edge of Paradise), the single blends intricate progressive elements with a more direct, modern heaviness. The band describes it as “a psychological and spiritual battle,” moving from dread into cathartic release.

The accompanying music video mirrors the emotional arc of the song. A woman is hunted by a mysterious figure of death, terrified at first, then increasingly resolute. She rides her motorcycle toward the confrontation she has avoided, only to discover that death was never the true enemy. Fear was.

“By facing it directly, she conquers the thing that had been ruling her,” says Johnny Ray.

The Mourning’s evolution follows a landmark year for the band. In 2025, they made their live debut aboard 70000 Tons of Metal, where Kerrang! hailed them as an “outrageously talented new prog collective” and praised their 3 a.m. debut as “one of the sets of the weekend.” They later performed at Prog on the Ranch 2025, further solidifying their rising status in the progressive metal world.

With the addition of Nanda Hayek and now Jason Ashcraft and Alon Mei‑Tal, The Mourning enters a new era, one defined by expanded musicianship, deeper emotional storytelling, and a sharpened modern metal edge.

Recommended for fans of Lacuna Coil, Amaranthe, Flyleaf, Disturbed, and Evanescence, watch and listen to the video for “If I Die I Die” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pbms_iiHgAM

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/themourning/if-i-die-i-die

Single and Live Band Lineup:
Nanda Hayek – Female Co-Vocalist
Johnny Ray – Male Co-Vocalist
Alex Nasla – Keyboards
Jason Berlin – Drums
Jason Ashcraft – Guitar
Alon Mei-Tal – Bass
Francesco Pinter – Lead Guitar

For more info: https://www.themourningmusic.com

About: Formed by vocalist and songwriter Johnny Ray, The Mourning was created to transform personal struggle, spiritual searching, and existential weight into emotionally immediate progressive metal. Their music blends soaring dual vocals, intricate musicianship, atmospheric tension, and deeply human lyrical themes. The band’s previous album, “Hush,” established them as a rising force in modern progressive metal, exploring anxiety, trauma, meaning, and inner transformation across its acclaimed tracklist.

– 30 –

“The band blends mid to uptempo grooves while also introducing space and atmosphere in just the right places. Combining melody, technical/progressive musical elements, and harmony lead vocals, I feel this band caters to both musicians and non-musicians alike.” – Todd La Torre (Queensrÿche)

“The Mourning masterfully marries classic synth sounds, modern Haken-esque rhythms, and massive vocal hooks into a modern progressive package worthy of every fan’s undivided attention.” – Metal Injection

“In a world of clones, The Mourning is a true original and a breath of fresh air.” – Gear Gods

“With the release of “Hush”, the band continue to showcase their mastery to balance technical prowess with broader thematic appeal. The Mourning will most definitely make a big impact on the prog metal scene today and in the future.” – Metal Epidemic

“An impressive first album from a young band with room to grow. Fans of bands like Haken and Distrct 97 will enjoy this album. One to watch.” – Prog Radio

“Hush” a sensory treat that transcends the limits of perception.” – Roadie Metal

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

0 Fantasy Metal SIEGE PERILOUS Unveils “Cut Down,” the Battle‑Scarred Path to Redemption From New Concept Album “Becoming The Dragon” ft. guests Fabio Lione (Rhapsody, Angra), Kristin Starkey (Twilight Force, Temperance)

June 15, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Siege Perilous

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 15, 2026

Fantasy Metal SIEGE PERILOUS Unveils “Cut Down,” the Battle‑Scarred Path to Redemption From New Concept Album “Becoming The Dragon”

Album Guests Fabio Lione (Rhapsody, Angra) and Kristin Starkey (Twilight Force, Temperance)

Colorado fantasy metal heroes Siege Perilous have released the official lyric video for “Cut Down”, a high‑octane heavy‑metal assault drawn from their new concept album “Becoming the Dragon” released this past March.

“Cut Down” stands as one of the band’s most traditional heavy‑metal tracks to date, a blazing fusion of Judas Priest grit, Dio‑inspired drama, and the battle‑ready bravado of Manowar. The song follows the album’s protagonist as he cuts a bloody path across the Infinite Steppe, only to confront the truth that he has become the very villain he once sought to destroy. In a moment of reckoning, he abandons his title as Chieftain and begins the long journey home.

Watch the lyric video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0kkbxuKfrhg

The new single offers a fierce glimpse of the band’s first full‑length album, “Becoming the Dragon”, a sweeping, ten‑chapter concept record chronicling the rise, fall, and transformation of the Child of Prophecy. The album blends cinematic storytelling with standalone, hook‑driven tracks, featuring guest appearances from two titans of the genre, Fabio Lione (Rhapsody, Angra) and Kristin Starkey (Twilight Force, Temperance).

Forged in Denver, CO, and rooted in fantasy, history, and cooperative storytelling, Siege Perilous blends epic riffs, soaring vocals, and cinematic arrangements into immersive power‑metal sagas. Formed by Shaughnessy McDaniel (vocals), Scott Hancock (guitar), and Mark Girard (drums), and later joined by Eric Fischer (bass) and Ryan Flanagan (guitar), the band draws inspiration from Manowar, Battle Beast, Iron Maiden, Hammerfall, Sabaton, Blind Guardian, Rhapsody, Helloween, and Avantasia.

“Becoming the Dragon” (released March 27th) is available via Crunchtronic Records on all digital platforms, along with physical CD and Vinyl, plus merch at the following links:

CD + Vinyl (Limited Edition 12″ Vinyl in Draconic Red) – https://siegemetal.bandcamp.com/album/becoming-the-dragon

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/2ij7lZIEXDFMn4I65Slc87

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

-30-

Siege Perilous Unleashes a Dragon-Slaying Debut – Westword Denver

“The LARP-loving five-piece’s first LP is its most immersive work to date, introducing a protagonist who is destined to slay an oppressive cosmic dragon. Spoiler: He defeats the nemesis by the third track, “As The Dragon Falls,” featuring former Rhapsody of Fire frontman Fabio Lione. But it’s what follows that makes Becoming the Dragon such a mind-bending metal journey for the child of prophecy. Siege Perilous brought in operatic singer Kristin Starkey (Temperance and Twilight Force) for somber ballad “Echoes of Home.” Vocalist Shaughnessy McDaniel, bassist Eric Fischer, drummer Mark Girard, and guitarists Scott Hancock and Ryan Flanagan rally the hordes on “Chieftain” and “Eschaton,” but Becoming the Dragon is best experienced in one shot.” – Westword Denver – The Best New Music Releases of March 2026

“Siege Perilous, a group with a ton of talent and potential, have the chops to be major players in the epic metal field. They need to get out of Colorado and head over to Europe!” 10/10 – Powerplay Magazine

“Denver, CO power-metal storytellers Siege Perilous launch their full-length Becoming the Dragon, which stands as a genre-defining concept album for the modern era.” – New Noise Magazine

“The debut album from this Colorado band is another fine example of just taking what makes power metal and epic heavy metal work and putting your own spin to it all.. with the excellent production and two awesome guest spots from Fabio Leone and Kristen Starky to give this just a little more cred and you having an album that is for anyone who enjoys the likes of Blind Guardian, Rapsidity, Krilloan, and Evermore. Excellent. Excellent music.” – Heavy Debriefings

“Becoming the Dragon is an excellent album in its own right, and it shows an up-and-coming band making great strides towards becoming a force to be reckoned with… a strong debut in its own right, and one I can easily recommend for fans of epic heavy metal and fantasy-themed power metal.” – My Global Mind Magazine

“With „Becoming The Dragon“ Siege Perilous follow in the big footsteps of bands like Avantasia, Iron Maiden and Blind Guardian. And the musicians do this extremely well. Great epic, sometimes bombastic sound, strong vocal direction and very good musicians make this debut extremely worth listening to.” – Keep On Rocking Mag

“This is epic Power Metal again, with driving drums and fast guitar solos.” – Metalheads Forever Mag

“The debut album from the epic, Colorado-based power metallers is a true journey from start to finish…. The band are insanely good songwriters, and for this to be a debut album makes it feel like we have some truly special things to come in the next few years! They’re ones to watch, for sure! However, for now, this is an excellent release for anyone into the genre even a little bit!” – Overtone Magazine

“For a debut, ‘Becoming The Dragon’ is a bold and confident statement… undeniably compelling, and a promising sign of greater things to come.” – Metal Rager 666

“Siege Perilous puts all the notes in the right places and has the chops to be a player in the epic power metal arena… and Becoming the Dragon offers a glimpse of this band’s potential.” – The Metal Crypt

“orchestral power metal with a fine story” – FFM-Rock

“With ‘Becoming The Dragon’, Siege Perilous proves that they are ready for the bigger stage. For fans of Wind Rose, Hammerfall, Sabaton, Blind Guardian, and Iron Maiden, this is a must. This is power metal with heart, brains, and a sword in hand.” – Musika

“Becoming The Dragon is an ambitious work that combines epic heavy metal with orchestral elements. Siege Perilous show talent in songwriting and variety of arrangements… The mix of powerful vocals, triple guitar riffing and orchestral interjections makes the album interesting for fans of epic metal,” – MetalUnderground.at

““It’s certainly not a lack of ambition, this is a band that clearly sees itself as the natural successors to the true greats of fantasy-based power metal… Guest Fabio Lione… absolutely lays waste to all around him in the role of ‘The Dragon’ on As The Dragon Falls…. They deserve the highest praise for their commitment to the cause if nothing else.” – Sentinel Daily

“The 10 tracks keep you on the edge of your seat and even feature a collaboration with Fabio Lione, who deserves to be praised in every way… An album to enjoy!” – Nada Hay Bajo El Sol

““‘As the Dragon Falls’ is elevated to a completely different level…. The catchy melodies and gripping guitar work are among the highlights of the record…. With the melancholic dark ballad ‘Echoes of Home,’ the band proves their knack for atmospheric arrangements with depth… Kristin Starkey contributes female vocals that give the track a beautifully atmospheric dimension… The gripping, catchy anthem ‘Chieftan’ is another noteworthy and praiseworthy exception.” – Obliveon

“All the songs are catchy, well constructed and technically flawless” – Tempiduri

“Musically, this is a total love letter to the European masters. You can hear the DNA of Blind Guardian and Iron Maiden all over the place, especially in the way the guitars layer up. Having three guitarists isn’t just for show; they use that extra firepower to build some seriously big harmonies that actually stick in your brain… “Becoming The Dragon” is a damn strong start for a band that clearly lives and breathes this genre. They aren’t hiding their influences; they’re wearing them like a suit of armor and heading straight for the front lines.” – Heavy Metal Darkness

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

0 “Breathe” In Progressive Collective LUFEH’s New Music Video In Support of Latest Album “Overwhelmed”

June 15, 2026
by Asher
· Lufeh · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 15, 2026

“Breathe” In Progressive Collective LUFEH’s New Music Video In Support of Latest Album “Overwhelmed”

Photo Credit – Joao Pinheiro

Progressive rock fusionists LUFEH have released their brand‑new music video “Breathe”, a vibrant and uplifting track from their newly released album “Overwhelmed,” out now as of May 29th. The song captures the band’s refined balance of technical sophistication and memorable, sing‑along melodies, an evolution that marks a new era for the long‑running musical collective.

“Breathe” stands out as one of the album’s most positive and energetic moments. Built on upbeat rhythms and bright melodic hooks, the track delivers a simple but powerful message: slow down, breathe, and reconnect with yourself amid the chaos of daily life. The band describes it as “a blast to play” and a reminder that sometimes the most important thing we can do is pause and take a breath.

Watch and listen to “Breathe” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0JHbR1hR5A

Recorded at the legendary Sunset Sound in Los Angeles, “Overwhelmed” represents LUFEH’s most mature and melodic work to date. While the band’s signature progressive complexity remains intact, this album places a stronger emphasis on catchy vocal melodies, memorable choruses, and emotional clarity.

The album features eight meticulously crafted tracks, designed to blend technical musicianship with accessibility. From the rhythmic intricacy of “Double Dip” to the emotional weight of “Feels Like I’m a Ghost,” the record showcases LUFEH’s ability to merge prog, fusion, metal, and Brazilian influences into a cohesive, modern sound.

A major highlight of the album is the addition of Ginny Luke as the band’s new featured vocalist. An internationally recognized electric violinist and singer, she brings a powerful new dimension to LUFEH’s sound, appearing on multiple tracks and elevating the album’s emotional and melodic impact. Luke has performed with artists such as Foo Fighters, Britney Spears, Snoop Dogg, Miguel, and many others.

LUFEH is a progressive rock band blending sophisticated, refined, and modern musical elements with deep emotional expression. Founded by drummer Lufeh, the band has evolved through decades of collaboration, friendship, and shared musical history. Guitarist Deio Tambasco and bassist Duca Tambasco, longtime collaborators dating back to their early band Anno Domini, rejoined forces with Lufeh to help shape the group’s current sound, alongside keyboardist/producer Gera Penna.

Despite living on different continents, drummer Lufeh Batera in Los Angeles and the rest of the band in São Paulo, the group wrote nearly 70% of the new album online, exchanging ideas daily and refining each track collaboratively. Their creative process is built on trust, honesty, and a shared commitment to crafting music that feels both intricate and emotionally resonant.

Influenced by Dream Theater, Rush, Vola, Tool, and Haken, LUFEH continues to push the boundaries of progressive rock while remaining grounded in melody, storytelling, and musical connection.

Listen to “Overwhelmed” (released May 29th, 2026) 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:

http://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 –

“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)

“Lufeh has built a sound that sits at the intersection of three demanding disciplines — Progressive Rock’s structural ambition, Progressive Metal’s physical weight, and Jazz-Fusion’s harmonic and rhythmic sophistication — and has managed to do so without reducing any of the three to background texture. The integration of Ginny Luke‘s violin gives the ensemble a tonal signature that is genuinely distinctive and provides the record with some of its most memorable moments. The dual vocal format, consistently well-deployed, expands the expressive range of the material in ways that a single voice simply could not replicate. 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)

“Progressive hard rock’s LUFEH have just released another powerful new single, ‘OVERWHELMED (feat. Ginny Luke)’. The title track from their forthcoming album slated for a May 29th launch, this one is also like the prior single (‘He Commands the Sun and the Stars’), a masterclass of modern prog metal. Hooks that sink deep, superb performances by the band and outstanding songwriting are all on display. The anticipation for the new album is swelling with each single and based on what we’ve heard so far, we’re ready for an exceptional experience. Catch Lufeh on your Home for the Best New Rock…W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll (2026 – Overwhelmed)

“With Overwhelmed, LUFEH have crafted a progressive rock album that is mature without feeling restrained, technical without becoming cold, and melodic without sacrificing ambition. It is the sound of a band refining its identity while opening itself to greater emotional risk. The result is a record that feels both grand and personal, the kind of album that rewards close listening while still offering choruses, hooks, and moments of immediate impact. LUFEH are not simply flexing their instrumental muscles here. They are building songs that understand what it means to carry too much, to lose sight of the surface, and to keep reaching anyway. ‘Overwhelmed‘ may be born from pressure, but its greatest achievement is the way it turns that pressure into motion, melody, and release.” – Infrared Magazine”

Great prog album, love Feels Like I’m A Ghost song” – The Chill dude on the Couch

—

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
Instagram @AsherMedia
Tweet @AsherMedia

0 METALADIAN Unleashes Ferocious Title‑Track Single “Deaditation” Ahead of Debut Album Out On Canada Day!

June 15, 2026
by Asher
· Metaladian · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 15, 2026

METALADIAN Unleashes Ferocious Title‑Track Single “Deaditation” Ahead of Debut Album Out On Canada Day!

L-R: Dan Brophy – Rhythm and Lead Guitars and Vocals, Andrew Brophy – Drums and Lead Vocals, Dustin Smith – Bass Guitar and Vocals, Ruth Guechtal – Rhythm Guitar and Vocals

Photo Credit – Andrew Brophy

Hamilton, Ontario, extreme‑metal outfit METALADIAN erupt with the release of “Deaditation,” the ferocious and hypnotic title‑track single from their upcoming debut album out on Canada Day, July 1st, 2026. After more than twenty years of composing, refining, and shaping the band’s sound, composer, lead vocalist, and drummer Andrew Brophy finally unveils the first official chapter of METALADIAN’s long‑awaited recorded legacy.

“Deaditation” is METALADIAN’s most aggressive and unrelenting work, a dizzying, chromatic, multi‑vocal assault built on a three‑stage structure: plateau, ascension, descent. Each time the cycle restarts, the tempo subtly increases, dragging listeners deeper into a spiralling frenzy.

“The interplay between vocalists is quick, dizzying and hypnotizing… the music is incrementally and constantly gaining momentum, driving the track to a spiralling frenzy by the final descent,” adds Brophy.

Lyrically, the single paints a blackened world where victims reclaim power through a psychic retaliation, a Deaditation, forcing abusers to feel the pain they inflicted “100,000 fold.” Musically, it opens with riotous crowd samples, chromatic bass lines, droning harmonies, ripping feedback, and a tribal drum solo that launches the track into its relentless progression.

Fans of extreme metal, progressive death metal, and classical‑influenced metal will immediately recognize the ambition and precision behind the single.

Listen to the lyric video for “Deaditation” at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3hjKm_7NoCs

Arriving July 1, 2026, “Deaditation” is the culmination of more than two decades of writing. Brophy began composing the framework on classical guitar in 2003, later expanding the material into a full three‑album arc.

The debut album is a story‑driven descent and ascent, moving through spiteful violence, spiralling depression, suicidal ideation,
confrontation with God, revenge, and finally, redemption.

“The album is drenched in violence and darkness, but with a hint of light that begins to show itself as the album progresses,” says Brophy.

Musically, the record is dense, chromatic, harmonically lush, and rhythmically punishing. Vocally, all four members contribute in a rapid‑fire call‑and‑response style: Andrew Brophy (drums, lead vocals) with melodic leads and rhythmic anchors, Dustin Smith (bass) brings guttural, ogre‑like lows, Dan Brophy (guitar) adds vicious, rabid‑dog riot vocals and Ruth Guechtal (guitar) exports ripping, high‑screeching screams. The result is a massive, layered vocal machine unlike anything in the Canadian metal landscape.

METALADIAN formed in Hamilton, Ontario, as the vehicle for Andrew Brophy’s intricate compositions, music that blends thrash, death, progressive, and technical metal with the darker works of classical composers such as Bartók, Penderecki, Mussorgsky, Stravinsky, Beethoven, and Mahler.

“Metaladian is my passion, my main source of creativity and catharsis for years,” adds Brophy.

Their sound is best described as complex, emotional, heavy, dark, and hypnotizing. The band’s lineup is deeply interconnected: Andrew and guitarist Dan are brothers, Ruth (guitar) is Dan’s wife, and Dustin (bass) is their “metal brother from another mother.”

All four also perform in the Hamilton extreme‑theatre metal act 30 Immolated; 16 Returned, and three members hold classical‑music degrees, including two doctorates in composition.

Recommended for fans of Strapping Young Lad, Metallica (early), Suffocation, Bela Bartok, and Ludwig Van Beethoven, METALADIAN’s “Deaditation” is available for pre-order at https://metaladian.bandcamp.com/

Track Listing:
1. Left Hand Path – 9:44
2. Deaditation – 6:21
3. No Worse Death Than The Loss Of All Hope – (Wondering Why I Wonder Why) – 7:35
4. Confrontation With God – 11:59
5. Cure For Judgement – 6:51
6. Welcome To Your Holy Hell – 8:49
Album Length: 51:19

Band Line-up:
Andrew Brophy – Lead Vocals – Drums
Dan Brophy – Vocals – Rhythm, Lead and Classical Guitars
Ruth Guetchal – Vocals – Rhythm Guitars
Dustin Smith – Vocals – Bass Guitars

More info:

https://www.facebook.com/metaladian/

https://www.instagram.com/metaladian

https://www.tiktok.com/@metaladian

About: Metaladian is a new band formed in Hamilton, Ontario, led by composer, drummer, and vocalist Andrew Brophy. Musically, we belong in the metal genre, but are greatly influenced by classical composers, lending itself to the progressiveness and complexity. The overall feel of the music is drenched in violence and darkness, but with a hint of light that can be achieved through our musical journey. The lead vocals, performed by drummer Andrew Brophy, are both harsh and melodic, with soaring melodies and lush harmonies, which alternate with the more thrash-style vocals from the rest of the band. The drums themselves are virtuosic, complementing the crushing riffs and flowing chords. The debut album “Deaditation” from Metaladian is the culmination of 20+ years of work. There is a great deal of variation within the album in terms of musical content, tempo, and texture.

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Metaladian
• All songs written by: Andrew Brophy
• Produced by: Andrew Brophy
• Mixed by: Dan Brophy
• Mastered by: Andreas “Seidr Jonsson” Westholm of Dark Prod Mixing and Mastering
• Album Artwork by: Roberto Toderico of Roberto Toderico Art

-30-

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

0 LA Symphonic Metal LEVINIA Sinks Their Teeth Into 2026 With Dracula Inspired Single “Bite”

June 12, 2026
by Asher
· Levinia · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 12, 2026

LA Symphonic Metal LEVINIA Sinks Their Teeth Into 2026 With Dracula Inspired Single “Bite”

Produced by Brandon Friesen (Halestorm, Nickelback, The Hu, Papa Roach)

L-R – Alon Mei-Tal – Guitar, Liam Alexander – Bass, Kourt Henson – Vocals, Dylan Suierveld – Drums

Photo Credit – Dream of Mirrors Photography

Los Angeles cinematic‑metal outfit Levinia returns with the third installment of their 2026 four‑single cycle, releasing their heaviest and most visceral track yet: “Bite.” The single and accompanying music video arrive as the follow‑up to the band’s recent releases “Silver Tongues” and “The Thorn,” continuing the group’s evolution into a darker, sharper, and more emotionally charged era.

“Bite,” like all four upcoming singles, is produced by Brandon Friesen (Halestorm, Nickelback, The Hu, Papa Roach), whose cinematic approach and modern metal sensibilities have helped elevate Levinia’s sound into its most refined form to date.

Drawing inspiration from Dracula, specifically the character of Mina Murray/Harker, “Bite” reimagines the classic Gothic arc of vulnerability transformed into strength. Vocalist Kourt Henson channels Mina’s evolution from prey to force of will, weaving a narrative of emotional reclamation, toxic entanglement, and the quiet power of survival.

“‘Bite’ is for anyone who’s ever felt drained by something or someone that tried to control them. It’s about finding the strength to fight back and become something stronger than what tried to break you,” says Henson.

Musically, “Bite” is Levinia at their most aggressive, relentless riffs, cinematic tension, and a vocal performance that swings between haunting restraint and explosive catharsis. Fans of the band’s heavier material, especially tracks like “Push and Pull,” will immediately gravitate toward its intensity.

The single’s artwork features a single drop of blood, a minimalist but potent symbol tied directly to the song’s themes. More than a nod to vampiric imagery, the blood represents the shedding of a former self, a transformation born from pain, loss, and the reclaiming of personal power.

“Bite” continues Levinia’s 2026 collaboration with producer Brandon Friesen, who worked closely with guitarist Alon Mei‑Tal and vocalist Kourt Henson during pre‑production to refine the band’s most ambitious material yet. The partnership has resulted in a sound that is heavier, more cinematic, and more emotionally deliberate than anything in the band’s catalog.

This single marks the third chapter in a four‑part release cycle that showcases the full spectrum of Levinia’s identity, from groove‑driven modern metal to atmospheric balladry to the ferocity embodied in “Bite.”

Recommended for fans of Within Temptation, Amaranthe, Nightwish, Lacuna Coil, and Delain, listen to “Bite” at the following links:

Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55Uw9l0cmAA

Digital – https://hypeddit.com/levinia/bite612

Previous Singles:

Silver Tongues – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vqhk6j6wzKs

The Thorn – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30EmGiQL7ug

Levinia:
Vocals – Kourt Henson
Guitar – Alon Mei-Tal
Bass – Liam Alexander
Drums- Dylan Suierveld

More info:

https://www.leviniaofficial.com/

https://instagram.com/leviniaofficial

https://www.facebook.com/LeviniaOfficial/

About: Levinia blends symphonic atmosphere, modern metal aggression, and cinematic storytelling into a sound influenced by Epica, Lacuna Coil, Sabaton, Disturbed, and Evanescence. Formed from the ashes of Los Angeles power‑metal band Aerius, the group has spent nearly a decade refining its identity into something bold, emotional, and unmistakably its own.

-30-

“The mixing was just absolutely incredible for the guitars. I really like that.” (referring to the complex rhythm). This was, I mean, I was super impressed. Really impressed. I love the chorus. That’s what we really love. (about catchy choruses). I love that. It was so good (about the operatic vocals), super super cool. What a good job. I’m happy that she’s back with her band. They all look like they were having a great time. That was super cool. (about the live setting) I love it. Yeah. Yeah. I love it.” (about headbanging). This was perfect. Right up my alley.” “It was very good. Very high rating. This was really cool, and I’m very happy we did this one.”- YouTube Reaction Video – The Rockin’ Roundtable (2026 – The Thorn (single)

“Overall, Liberation is a thoroughly impressive EP that should find appeal with both the modern metal and symphonic crowds, especially those craving a little extra heaviness in their material. Levinia are onto something great here, best to catch them here at the ground level and watch them explode to the next level in the near future.” – Dead Rhetoric (2018 – Liberation)

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

0 Edmonton’s POWERLÖAD Drops Music Video “Drunk in a Taxi Cab” For New Album “In The Pocket” Out End of June 2026 + Tour Dates ANVIL

June 12, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Powerload

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 12, 2026

POWERLÖAD Drops Music Video “Drunk in a Taxi Cab” For New Album “In The Pocket” Out End of June 2026

+ Tour Dates ANVIL (BC/AB)

L-R: Hell Hammered (Drums/Vocals), Shel Shock (Bass/Vocals), Brett Michaels (Guitar)

Photo Credit – STUDIO VON PHOTOGRAPHY

Canadian sleaze‑rock troublemakers POWERLÖAD have released their brand‑new music video for “Drunk in a Taxi Cab”, the latest single from their upcoming album “In The Pocket,” due out on June 26, 2026, from Luv Machine Records (Vinyl), Night Strike Records (Cassette) and Nice Load Records & Marital Aid (CD).

The video is a hilariously literal, grimy, one‑location ride through the life of a drunk trying to get home, shot entirely in the back of a car. The concept came straight from bassist/vocalist Shel Shock, who adds:

“One night I was in a car coming home from the bar & in the midst of all the spinning, some lyrics appeared. Anyone who’s listening to POWERLÖAD has been there, you drunks. Can’t get more literal or bonehead than that.”

A slower, swagger‑heavy rocker, “Drunk in a Taxi Cab” captures the bleary, reflective moment between the chaos of the night and the consequences of the morning, all wrapped in the band’s signature maximum-voltage street rock attack attitude.

Watch the video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EnoG43vlJy0

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/artist/6r7vD3wBNn5j6qdqvKdpVk?si=qqnV1ZABQhe6IBZwtMRVrA

POWERLÖAD’s new album is eight tracks of unapologetic, high‑octane sleaze rock that chronicle a full night of the band’s self‑proclaimed lifestyle.

“We wanted this album to be almost conceptual of the POWERLÖAD lifestyle. People compare it to Tommy or The Wall, mostly because of the musicianship & lyrical themes, which are superior on In The Pocket,” adds Shel Shock.

Lyrically and musically, the band sums the album up in three words: sex, drugs, and rock’n’ roll. The record is a full‑throttle plunge into that chaos, ripping through eight filthy, high‑energy chapters that kick off with the AC/DC charged opener “Tons of Tail”, a song that sounds like it’s about lots of chicks, but it’s actually about lots of cocktails. Rolling into “Bad Girls,” a tribute to the strong, street‑owning women the band admires. “The Ballad of Shit Faced Tony” follows Toronto’s most persistent blow‑seeker, while “Chains of Rock n’ Roll” channels the reckless spirit of the Sunset Strip. The stakes rise, literally and chemically, with “Stakes Are High (& So Am I),” a gambling‑fueled Motörhead homage, before the weed‑worshipping “Defenders of the Eighth” lights up the room. “Lapdog Deluxe” dives into glam‑trash absurdity inspired by ZZ Top confusion, and the night finally collapses into “Drunk in a Taxi Cab,” a bleary, stumbling ride home that closes the album with hungover honesty.

Following the album release, POWERLÖAD will hit the road with ANVIL for three Western Canadian shows, including a hometown blowout in Edmonton, AB.

Tour Dates:
June 25 – Kelowna, BC – Unleashed Brewing Co. w/ Corpus Upir, Charlie Handsome & the Brats
June 26 – Chilliwack, BC – The Chillhouse Tour w/ Anvil
June 27 – Vancouver, BC – Astoria Tour w/ Anvil
July 2 – Edmonton, AB – Divebar Tour w/ Anvil

POWERLÖAD formed as a reaction to safe, sanitized rock, choosing instead to deliver raw, dirty, high‑energy sleaze rock built for people who want to feel “sexy as hell” when they hit play. The trio features Shel Shock (Bass + Vocals), Hell Hammered (Drums), and Brett Michaels (Guitar).

Recommended for fans of G.B.H., Motorhead, AC/DC, and Mötley Crüe, “In The Pocket”, out on June 26th from Luv Machine Records (Vinyl), Night Strike Records (Cassette), and Nice Load Records & Marital Aid (CD) is available for pre-order (CD/ Vinyl/ Cassette) at https://powerload.bandcamp.com/album/in-the-pocket

Previous Videos:

Defenders of the Eighth – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=at0E5z-_7vw

Bad Girls – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ls_2za63Sdg

Track Listing:
1. Tons Of Tail (2:36)
2. Bad Girls (3:02)
3. The Ballad Of Shit Faced Tony (2:58)
4. Chains Of Rock n’ Roll (2:51)
5. Stakes Are High (So Am I) (3:21)
6. Defenders Of The Eighth (2:42)
7. Lapdog Deluxe (2:20)
8. Drunk In A Taxi Cab (3:25)

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Powerload
• All songs written by: Powerload
• Produced by: Powerload & Rob Lawless
• Mixed by: Rob Lawless
• Mastered by: Rob Lawless
• Album Artwork by: Adan Vazquez
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Band Line Up Album + Live
Shel Shock – Bass, Vocals (Tracks 1, 3, 4, 6)
Brett Michaels – Guitar
Hell Hammered – Drums, Vocals (Tracks 2, 5, 7, 8)

More info:

https://www.facebook.com/POWERLOADYEG

https://instagram.com/POWERLOAD.YEG

-30-

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

0 Saskatoon’s PYTHONIC Unleash Groove‑Driven Assault “Set You Free” From New EP “Laws of Karma” Out July 2026

June 12, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Pythonic

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 12, 2026

Saskatoon’s PYTHONIC Unleash Groove‑Driven Assault “Set You Free”

New EP “Laws of Karma” Out July 2026

L-R – Ryan Hunter (Lead Guitar), Vincent Kohut (Rhythm Guitar & Backing Vocals), Max Hiske (Bass), Morgan Warriner (Vocals), Jayden Warriner (Drums)

Pythonic erupt with their second single, “Set You Free,” a vicious, groove‑driven assault that challenges religious corruption and hypocrisy with unflinching aggression. Following the May release of their first single, “Sentience,” the band now doubles down on heaviness, message, and momentum as they prepare to unleash their third EP, “Laws of Karma,” on July 10th, 2026.

“Set You Free” has long been a staple of Pythonic’s live set, a track that consistently ignites pits, commands movement, and showcases the band’s sharpened direction. Musically, it’s a crafted banger by guitarist Ryan Hunter, built on riffs that have evolved through years of live refinement. The song’s ripping solo and newly added backing vocals from guitarist Vincent Kohut thicken the attack, giving the track the weight and venom it always demanded.

Lyrically, the single is a direct strike at the failures of organized religion. Vocalist Morgan Warriner’s words condemn the harm, hypocrisy, and abuse perpetuated under the guise of holiness, declaring that any doctrine built on hate deserves to burn. It’s one of the band’s most confrontational statements to date, a message delivered with conviction, fury, and purpose.

Listen to “Set You Free” at the following links:

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/2u07T0lYmbg5R76oZecF5e

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJw7vOY-lU0

First Single – “Sentience” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymCFKjZ5tX0

The Saskatoon band’s third EP, “Laws of Karma,” marks a defining moment for them, the end of their “rewriting old material” era and the beginning of a heavier, more death‑driven future.

The EP features revamped tracks once tied to the band’s previous lineup, now reborn with new lyrics, new energy, and a unified vision. Pythonic describes it as their true leap forward, shedding their old skin and emerging with a sound that is thicker, dirtier, groovier, and far more aggressive.

Musically, the EP pushes deeper into death groove, death metal, and slam‑leaning extremity, while still carrying the band’s signature rhythmic swagger. Tracks like “Venom,” “Feed the Flames,” and the title track “Laws of Karma” reflect years of personal struggle, disability, recovery, and catharsis, written through surgeries, immobility, and the darkest periods of the members’ lives.

“The first set of music I’ve written that is fully me… created when I couldn’t walk or move. We made music to make you move when we ourselves at times could not,” adds vocalist Morgan Warriner.

Rising from the ashes of their former lineup, Pythonic now operates as a tight, dedicated unit, a band committed solely to its identity and to pushing its sound into heavier territory. Their live shows have become a destructive force: raw energy, tighter performances, and an aggressive presence that has earned praise from scene veterans like Stu Block (Into Eternity) and Matt Cuthbertson (Untimely Demise).

Recent performances at Slaughter Fest, Serenade Metal Fest, and their May / June 2026 tour with Exit Wound have solidified their reputation as one of Western Canada’s most explosive rising acts.

With their aggressive, groovy, raw, thick, and dirty sound, Pythonic is recommended for fans of Lamb of God, Black Dahlia Murder, Death, Morbid Angel, Devildriver, Pantera, and 200 Stab Wounds.

“Laws of Karma” is available for pre-order at https://pythonic.bandcamp.com/

Track Listing:
1. Laws of Karma (3:17)
2. Feed The Flames (3:52)
3. Set You Free (4:07)
4. Sentience (4:36)
5. Venom (2:59)
EP Length: 18:51

EP and Live Lineup:
Morgan Warriner – Lead Vocals
Ryan Hunter – Lead Guitar
Vincent Kohut – Rhythm Guitar and Backing Vocals
Max Hiske – Bass
Jayden Warriner – Drums

More info:

https://www.facebook.com/pythonicband

https://instagram.com/pythonicband

About: Pythonic is a Canadian death‑groove band known for its crushing riffs, relentless energy, and emotionally charged lyricism. Influenced by Lamb of God, Black Dahlia Murder, Death, Morbid Angel, Devildriver, Pantera, and modern slam, the band continues to evolve toward a heavier, more extreme sound. Their live shows are defined by precision, intensity, and a connection with the crowd that consistently sparks movement, even as the opening act.

EP recording credits:
All songs performed by Pythonic
All songs written by Pythonic
Produced by Pythonic
Mixed by Reid Paraszczynec / Lucid Distortion Audio
Mastered by Reid Paraszczynec / Lucid Distortion Audio
Album Artwork by Apocalyptic Nuke

-30-

“Pythonic’s Decomposition EP: Rebuilt, Refined, and Ridiculously Relentless” – North Sask Music Zine

“A nice blast of heaviness to see out the year. Pythonic throw their all into delivering a memorable showcase of thrashing death metal. An EP of five tracks that shows off plenty of creativity, has moments of exciting flair, and undeniably delivers the hefty ‘one-two’ punch of death crossed with thrash metal. 8/10” – Games, Brrraaains and A Head-Banging Life (Decomposition – 2025)

“PYTHONIC does command respect. The way they have approached the music is impressive. I hear Metalcore, I get Metal Hardcore, I receive Groove metal and I hear Heavy Metal. Sometimes one of the four, at other times two or more of the four ingredients on offer. And what is even more impressive; they work well together.8/10” – Metal Temple (Decomposition – 2025)

“Pythonic assuredly on fine footing based on the reinterpretation of older songs for Decomposition. Strap yourself in for a modern mix of groove metal with thrash, death, and metalcore components which leaves you battered, bruised, and craving more.8/10” – Dead Rhetoric

“The first thing that grabs you about this second stab in the dark from Pythonic is Warriner’s shrill screams which are as nasty as a low budget horror movie from the 1980’s but in a good way. That’s not to say he doesn’t have a death growl of course but it’s not all that deep, his preference being to shred your ear canals as he screeches like a lunatic awaiting asylum on opening gambit “Guiltfeeder“. A track with a sinister urge and classy bit of lead towards the end from Hunter, it’s something that has that classic Morbid Angel about it while there can be little doubt the band love a bit of Swedish Death Metal.” – Metal Noise

““EP 1” is a testament to Pythonic‘s dedication to their craft and their refusal to be confined by sub-genre limitations. Each song is a blend of technical prowess and raw emotion, offering listeners a chance to experience the full spectrum of the band’s capabilities. It is recommended for fans of Machine Head, Trivium and Pantera.” – Metal-Rules (EP01 – 2024)

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

0 ETERNAL DRAK Returns With Blackened Thrash‑Fueled Single “The Unborn Paths Rot” From Sixth Album “The Violence of Time” Out July 2026

June 12, 2026
by Asher
· Eternal Drak · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 12, 2026

ETERNAL DRAK Returns With Blackened Thrash‑Fueled Single “The Unborn Paths Rot”

Sixth Album “The Violence of Time” Out July 2026

L-R – Andres Martinez Torres (Drakar) – Voices, Lead Guitar, Bass – Michel Amyot – Rhythm Guitar

Photo Credit – Patrick Auger

Eternal Drak unleashes their second single, “The Unborn Paths Rot,” a violent, thrash‑driven strike that deepens the conceptual and sonic identity of their upcoming album “The Violence of Time,” due out on July 17th, 2026 via Canadian label FirstWave. Following the May release of the first single, “We Force It To Speak,” this new track sharpens the band’s attack, fusing the aggression of classic thrash with the bleak philosophical weight that defines the record.

“The Unborn Paths Rot” explores the collapse of possibility itself. The band describes the song as a reflection on futures that die before they ever become real, paths that flicker into existence only long enough to fail. Its lyrics confront the tension between fate and free will, questioning whether we truly shape our future or whether the weight of past decisions already narrows our choices. Musically, the single reconnects with Eternal Drak’s thrash foundations: razor‑edged riffs, relentless rhythmic force, and a sense of urgency that bridges the band’s early identity with their evolved 2026 sound.

Listen to “The Unborn Paths Rot” at the following links:

Spotify – https://hypeddit.com/eternaldrak/theunbornpathsrot

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

“The Violence of Time” is Eternal Drak’s sixth full‑length album and their most conceptually ambitious work to date. The record frames time as a hostile force, not a neutral medium, but an oppressive pressure that erodes meaning, identity, and memory. Each track is built as a “violent thesis,” dismantling human assumptions about past, present, and future.

Lyrically, the album is rooted in a short story written by the band, following an individual who gradually realizes that time cannot be explained, contained, or trusted. Each song becomes a fragment of that realization—an emotional and philosophical collision rather than a narrative.

Musically, the album is crafted for true old‑school metal devotees: those who crave the rawness of thrash, the darkness of black metal, and the severity of death metal. Eternal Drak blends these foundations with modern production and subtle influences from groove and Latin folk, creating a sound that is aggressive, layered, and unmistakably theirs.

Formed, as the band puts it, “in the middle of a drunk among friends,” Eternal Drak have spent years evolving through the extreme‑metal spectrum. Their sound, described as varied in rhythm and catchy, has shifted from raw thrash/black origins to a more expansive, digitally enhanced sonic identity.

Recommended for fans of Dimmu Borgir, Watain, Kreator, Motörhead, and Desaster, “The Violence of Time” is available for album pre-order (out July 17th, 2026) at https://eternaldrak.bandcamp.com/

First Single – “We Force It To Speak” at the following links:

Spotify – https://hypeddit.com/eternaldrak/weforceittospeak

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nMt45oS5uxY

Track Listing:
1. We Force It To Speak – 5:15
2. The Unborn Paths Rot – 3:51
3. Me Hice Simultaneo – 3:30
4. The Blasphemy of Time – 3:35
5. Chaos Is the Law – 3:34
6. Where Cause Is Buried – 3:55
7. Across the Watching Veils – 3:53
8. Breathing Once Again – 3:45
9. The Cosmos Rejects You – 4:09
10. No Direction Total War – 2:57
Album Length: 38:24

Album Band Line-up:
Andres Martinez Torres (Drakar) – Voices, Lead Guitar, Bass
Michel Amyot – Rhythm Guitar

More info: http://www.eternaldrak.com | https://www.facebook.com/EternalDrak | https://www.instagram.com/eternaldrak

About:

Eternal Drak is an extreme metal band based in Quebec City, Canada, originally founded in Latin America in the late ’90s. Rooted in a fierce blend of thrash and black metal, the band has continually expanded its sound with elements of death metal, groove, and melodic experimentation. Lyrically, Eternal Drak explores human and cosmic darkness, a theme present across all seven of its official releases. The band is currently signed to the Canadian label FirstWave.

Formed in 1997 by brothers Drakar and Warhammer, later joined by guitarist Reijav, Eternal Drak quickly gained recognition, winning a City TV award for Best Metal Video in the early 2000s. After releasing early EPs and their first full-length, the band went on hiatus in 2007.

In 2020, the members reunited in Quebec to create The Past Is Gone, A New One Is Coming, honoring co‑founder and drummer Eduardo “Warhammer” Martínez. This revival led to a prolific new era, including the albums Drak Metal (2021), Shadow Storm (2022), Imprisoned Souls (2024), and multiple EPs. The lineup later expanded with guitarist Mike Amyot and drummer Patrick Auger.

Today, Eternal Drak (featuring Andres Martinez Torres (Drakar) – Voices, Lead Guitar, Bass, and Michel Amyot – Rhythm Guitar) continues to evolve while staying true to its extreme metal roots, driven by intensity, melody, and a commitment to pushing its sound across continents.

-30-

“A fine collection from the masters of ancient evil” – Metal Noise (The Warrior Order – 2025)

“There’s evil intent at the start of next song “Eternal Drak” something I’d expect as it’s named after the band. Again, the trio are delving into themes of dark forces and mythical battles, but they have upped the intensity on this one as it sounds more powerful. It’s hard not to imagine a town or castle besieged by dragon’s fire and the hellish earth that awaits any survivors.” – The Razor’s Edge (The Warrior Order – 2025)

“another great sounding recording from Eternal Drak and if you are a fan of blackened thrash metal, you should check out this ep. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE “Oda A La Luna” and “La Nueva Orden”. 8 out of 10.” – Bringer of Death Zine (The Warrior Order – 2025)

“„Eternal Drak“ is a small grab bag. Here they use different tempos that fit into the fast, rhythmic sound. With an extremely thrashy and vocally aggressive sound, you always have to be prepared for changing rhythms and moods. An extremely brutal melody blows with us „La nueva Order“ counter. At the end of the „EP“ they take a Metallica song from the album „Master of Puppets“ before. „Leper Messiah“ rewound in a radical version. Just as the album title says: they implement the warrior code musically.” – Hellfire Magazin (The Warrior Order – 2025)

“The Warrior Order is a real surprise and shows a completely new face of ETERNAL DRAK,” – PowerMetal.de (The Warrior Order – 2025)

““Oda A La Luna” sees a powerful drum at the beginning, before the rhythm settles in this dark ode. The lyrical theme is one of rebellion and ritual, and you can feel the intensity with each slap on the snare. The middle section has a sudden tempo change, with a riff that will get your head moving and the intensity follows through.” – The Razor’s Edge (The Warrior Order – 2025)

“This is a pretty good EP that’s got plenty of thrashy riffs, grooves and black metal harmonies and tremolos, give this a spin. ” – Drako’s Metal Reviews (The Warrior Order – 2025)

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

0 WITHOUT MERCY’s New Music Video Breaks The “Glass” With Its Extreme Metal Groove For New EP “Infinite Loss” Out Now!; Produced by John Douglass (Alluvial, Nile, Nekrogoblikon)

June 12, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Without Mercy

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 12, 2026

WITHOUT MERCY’s New Music Video Breaks The “Glass” With Its Extreme Metal Groove

Produced by John Douglass (Alluvial, Nile, Nekrogoblikon)

L -R – DJ Temple – Guitars, Alex Friis – Vocals, Ryan Loewen – Bass, Matt Helie – Drums
Photo Credit: Shimon Photo – http://www.shimonphoto.com

Canadian extreme‑metal veterans Without Mercy have released the official music video for “Glass”, the newest single from their latest EP “Infinite Loss” produced with John Douglass (Alluvial, Nile, Nekrogoblikon) and released this past May.

“Glass” stands as one of the band’s most focused and physically weighted compositions to date. Built around a single riff written after guitarist DJ Temple witnessed Meshuggah live, the track locks into a deliberate, crushing groove that becomes the backbone of the entire arrangement.

“Glass hits hard because it was written with clarity, conviction, and momentum from the first note. Everything else was built to serve that initial idea,” says Temple.

Lyrically, the song explores eyes, mirrors, and translation, the distortion between what is seen and what is understood. The video mirrors that tightening tension, capturing the song’s sense of pressure and its final, cathartic release.

The new single arrives in support of “Infinite Loss,” a three‑track EP created during the most immersive recording process of the band’s career. Without Mercy uprooted their routines, crossed borders, and lived inside the studio for ten days, no comfort, no distance, no escape.

“This record exists because we chose to be uncomfortable, to argue honestly, and to stay in the room until it felt right. It’s focused, intentional, and real,” adds Temple.

The EP’s three songs, Infinite Loss, The Saint, and Glass, were selected not as singles but as statements, each surviving months of scrutiny, revision, and collective decision‑making. Lyrically, “Infinite Loss” is about being hunted, not by a single antagonist, but by the pressures of modern life: economics, identity, time, survival. The threat shifts, but never disappears. Musically, the EP leans into weight, repetition, and restraint. Riffs sit long enough to suffocate. Rhythms feel physical and deliberate. The aggression is controlled, not chaotic, a reflection of endurance rather than escape.

The EP’s artwork, created with artist Diego Gedoz de Souza, depicts a desolate forest split by a massive void, a visual metaphor for inevitability, loss, and the gravitational pull of forces beyond control. It mirrors the EP’s emotional core without explaining it, inviting listeners into the world before a single note plays.

Without Mercy was formed in 2007, blending groove, extreme metal, and technical precision into a sound described as “heavy and insightful at the same time.” The band has shared stages with Cattle Decapitation, Aborted, and Death Angel, and has appeared as downloadable content in Rock Band 3, bridging gaming culture and heavy music.

Their discography includes “All Else Fails” (2007), “Without Mercy” (2009), “Reborn” (2014), rereleased as “Mouichido” (2016), and “Seismic” (2020). “Infinite Loss” marks their most focused and intentional work to date, a release built from collapse, rebuilt through discipline, and finished with absolute conviction.

Recommended for fans of Meshuggah, Gojira, Decapitated, Alluvial, and Pantera, experience the new music video for “Glass” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRG4DolDI5s

Listen to the full EP “Infinite Loss” (released May 8th) on all digital platforms at https://ffm.to/infiniteloss

Track Listing:
1. Infinite Loss – (4:15)
2. The Saint – (3:39)
3. Glass – (3:16)
EP Length: 11:11

EP and Live Band Line-up:
Alex Friis – Vocals
DJ Temple – Guitars
Ryan Loewen – Bass
Matt Helie – Drums

More info:

https://www.withoutmercyband.com/

https://www.facebook.com/withoutmercyband

https://www.instagram.com/withoutmercyband

-30-

“The music was excellent…a potent mixture of aggression and technical precision. Now that I can taste them, I am very much looking forward to a full length from the band.” – Metal-Temple

““The Saint” is somehow both maniacal and controlled. In its opening couple of minutes it seems to be a carefully calibrated convulsion, discharging its myriad sensations in quick stop-start bursts of seemingly off-kilter but tightly executed mayhem. Those sensations include sledgehammer rhythmic brutishness, shrill and spidery fretwork-delirium, and napalm-strength vocals. The grooves are there — grooves of differing kinds — but they quickly jackhammer listeners in the midst of harrowing howls, scorching screams, and a multitude of fleet-fingered but berserk and discordant string contortions. Moreover, at the 2:18 mark the song suddenly and dramatically changes — indeed, it’s difficult to overstate just how dramatic the change is. In place of all the frenetically bursting frequencies the lead guitar gently rings and seductively warps above gravel-toned bass-lines and steady beats, an interlude that brings hints of jazz fusion to mind. That’s just a quick breather before the song’s intensity blazes again, and yet the segue back into the finale of bludgeoning grooves and squirming guitars is a smooth and near-seamless one.” – No Clean Singing

“WITHOUT MERCY With this release they position themselves clearly in the intersection of death metal, groove and metalcore, without completely submitting to any of these genres. The band uses elements of these directions to develop their own language that relies on suspense rather than classic hooks. Conclusion: WITHOUT MERCY succeeds with »Infinite Loss« an impressive statement in the field of death/groove metal, metalcore. 4/5” – Metal Underground Austria

“the controlled aggression and delicious grooves of title track “Infinite Loss” gradually ramp up in their intensity, creating a sense of slow suffocation before the riffs subside to allow for a technical solo of the highest order from DJ Temple. A powerful statement piece that flows in wave like patterns through dark moods, the sonic weight of the music conveys the message without the need for the harsh vocals from Alex Friis. That’s not to say his words are superfluous; on the contrary, they’re the fuel for the fire as the world burns.” – Metal Noise

“we hear a solid force coming through, where riffs are the main ingredient, alongside a brutal and aggressive-sounding voice.” – Musika

“The resulting output is “Infinite Loss”, a three track assault that zeroes in on a choking atmosphere of mechanical hostility. Musically, the band leans heavily into calculated syncopation and technical restraint, letting rhythmic patterns lock in to create a claustrophobic pressure.” – Heavy Metal Darkness

“It’s only three songs, but it’s a lot to process. This isn’t background music. It’s a physical record that reflects the stress of just existing right now. Honestly, after nearly twenty years, it’s cool to see a band still willing to make themselves this uncomfortable just to see what happens. It paid off.” – Radio Papy Jeff

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

Page 12 of 532

Asher Media Relations Tweets

Tweets by AsherMedia

Asher Media Email Subscription

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

Email Address:

Join 2,164 other subscribers