Category: Music News

0 Quebec’s VORTEX Lay Down Intricate Storytelling And Melodic Death Metal Riffs In “The Walls” Off Forthcoming Album “The Future Remains In Oblivion” Out June 2023

May 10, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Vortex

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 10, 2023

Quebec’s VORTEX Lay Down Intricate Storytelling And Melodic Death Metal Riffs In “The Walls”

New Concept Album “The Future Remains In Oblivion” Out June 2023

L-R – Justin L’Italien Dubé (Drums and Piano), Simon Desjardins (Bass), Alexandre Labrie (Vocals), Dany Lévesque (Guitars), Mathieu Duguay (Guitars and Orchestrations)
Photo Credit: Freeman

Prepare to be whisked away to a bleak world that is recovering from a devastating cataclysm in the latest album from Canada’s Vortex. “The Future Remains In Oblivion” is the third concept album from the band which takes great pride in weaving cinematic stories set to orchestral melodic death metal. Scenes of war and survival are punctuated with harrowing strings, technical riffs, and guttural and black metal vocals. The second single “The Walls” is the fourth chapter in this eight-track sojourn and the band is eager to explain this part of the story:

“Our Fool got all sorts of people to believe and follow him. They’ve put everything they’ve got into building a secret small city that is protected by reinforced walls and an arsenal. Inside these walls, they have everything they need to survive any cataclysm and its aftermath. Although it is fast and aggressive, ‘The Walls’ is the catchiest song on our new album. Its verses have a strong orchestral melody underlying black metal riffing and vocals to create a unique feel.”

According to the band, the choruses have some of their best orchestral writing with its predominant violin melody supporting powerful layers of guttural vocals. “The Walls” has one of the best solos of the album, technical with lots of feel and melody.

Listen to “The Walls” via its premiere on NoCleanSinging HERE.

Vortex is comprised of seasoned musicians with an abundance of studio and live experience, and with an offer to join a label, they decided to band together to create music that would have dynamics and a strong melodic side while retaining the essence of what death metal is.

Recommended for fans of Septicflesh, Lorna Shore, and Dimmu Borgir, “The Future Remains In Oblivion” is due out June 9th, 2023.

Digital (Bandcamp, Spotify, Apple Music) – https://linktr.ee/vortexband

Music Video – First Blood – https://youtu.be/Wd-yfIfRRzQ

Tour Dates:
May 20 – Lévis, QC – Corsaire Microbrasserie w/ Fracturus, Strigampire
June 9 – Matane, QC – Le Barachois – Gaspesian Metal fest
Sept 15 – Rivière du Loup, QC – Espace Collectif Berger St-Modeste w/ Aeternam
Sept 16 – Montreal, QC – Piranha Bar (Hellstorm Productions 20th Anniversary Show)
Oct 20 – Quebec City, QC – L’Anti Bar w/ Strigampire, Beyond Fiction
Oct 21 – Ottawa, ON – The House of Targ w/ Serene Dark, Strigampire
Nov 3 – Saguenay, QC – CEM w/ Beyond Fiction, Strigampire
Nov 4 – Montreal, QC – Piranha Bar w/ Strigampire, Serene Dark
Dec 15 – Rimouski, QC – Le Paradis – Strigampire, Serene Dark, Beyond Fiction
Dec 16 = Trois-Rivières, QC – L’Entité w/ Strigampire, Serene Dark

Track Listing:
1. From The Sun (5:24)
2. Downfall (4:11)
3. The Fool (3:13)
4. The Walls (4:32)
5. Our Possible End (4:23)
6. First Blood (4:29)
7. The Future Remains In Oblivion (4:50)
8. When No More Words Will Be Heard (5:22)
Album Length: 36:29

For more info: Vortex.band | Facebook.com/vortex.band.ca | Instagram.com/vortex.band.ca | Twitter.com/vortexband

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“Vortex, with their epic and heavy music, are truly a staple of the Quebec metal scene and it’s always a pleasure to see them perform.” – Thorium Mag – Live Review 2022

“Symphonic tones merge beautifully with wailing guitar riffs and thunderous drums in a storm of terrible and wonderful fury of the gods. VORTEX’s very name sums up the unique blend of complex sounds they’ve taken time to master.” – 9/10 – Metal Temple (Lighthouse Review 2019)

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780 | jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations | Instagram @AsherMedia | Tweet @AsherMedia
(Rockshots Records, Extreme Metal Music, Armstrong MetalFest, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Toledo DeathFest)

0 RED CAIN Is On “The Great Hunt” With New Live Video Off Wheel of Time Inspired Album “NÄE’BLISS” Out June 2023

May 10, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Red Cain

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC- May 10, 2023

RED CAIN Is On “The Great Hunt” With New Live Video Off Wheel of Time Inspired Album “NÄE’BLISS” Out June 2023

L-R – Taylor Gibson (drums), Kalie Yan (bass, vocals), Evgeniy Zayarny (vocals), Samuel Ridout (guitar)

Photo Credit Zak Kelly

The hunt is on with Calgary, Canada’s Red Cain‘s last single to be released before they unleash their new album “NÄE’BLISS” on June 2nd, 2023. One of the heaviest tracks in the Red Cain repertoire “The Great Hunt” is a stomping, driven ¾ march utilizing 8-string guitars and layers and layers of bass.

“This track pushes further into the djent riffs present elsewhere on the album, yet contains all of the usual characteristics of a Red Cain anthem – lush electronic backing, soaring, aggressive vocals, and a pulsing, headbanging groove. Conceptually, within the album’s theme continuing to revolve around the “Wheel of Time” universe, “The Great Hunt” calls our Forsaken protagonists to begin the hunt for the most dangerous game – their archenemy, the world-breaking Champion of the Light – the Dragon Reborn himself. With regression to the status quo threatening, and Chaos the only antidote, will this bold move yield success – or drive the world deeper into the designs of the Wheel? Step up, heft your spear – and join The Great Hunt.” adds the band.

Watch and listen to “The Great Hunt” via its live video at https://youtu.be/Xm8OeUGVkjg

Red Cain‘s third full-length album “NÄE’BLISS” is a homage to the legendary world of Robert Jordan’s fantasy epic “The Wheel of Time” (novel/TV series). With a grimdark edge, down-tuned guitars, death and power prog metal influences, and an unrelenting march forward, “NÄE’BLISS” is a foray into the reverse side of the Wheel of Time story – that of the Forsaken, antagonists, instruments of the Great Lord of the Dark, and the brutal and captivating allure of letting Chaos reign supreme.

The band explains further:

“We are fascinated by antagonists, why they stand against the “common good”, and how they came to fill that role – and when reading the Wheel of Time, there was the same intrigue behind how the very clearly defined “evil” faction in this world justified its existence. Why did the Forsaken willingly join the Shadow? Why do some men and women want the world to burn, and the Wheel to stop spinning? Within such a carefully crafted narrative and beautifully balanced universe, there were puzzling, unexplored gaps that we were determined to delve deeper into.

And of course, fantasy is but a mirror of reality – so outside WoT lore, these questions apply equally well to the world beyond our window. Which of our idols are false, which heroes degenerate, and what history is a compendium of careful lies? It is all too easy to raise your fist against those labeled evil by the multitudes or a voice above while failing to realize you yourself are the instrument of tyranny and corruption.

We are all massive fantasy fans, and for us, Wheel of Time rubs shoulders with LOTR as a genre-defining epic fantasy series that started it all. The world of the Wheel is a brutal, compelling world with multitudes of fascinating characters, and we were particularly interested in exploring its more visceral aspects – an area that begs to be paired with heavy metal. We’ve seen some of our musical icons, like Blind Guardian, successfully go down this path, and it was magnificent to see new musical interpretations of those stories spun out by them – not to mention some bloody good fun.

Now, it is our turn to ride forward in another turn of the Wheel. Enjoy!”

Red Cain is recommended for fans of Kamelot, Symphony X, Myrath, Powerwolf, Mastodon, and The Contortionist.

“NÄE’BLISS” is due out on June 2, 2023.

Album pre-order – https://redcain.bandcamp.com

Previous Music Videos:

We Are Chaos – https://youtu.be/YbXEV1DFjnQ

Fisher King – https://youtu.be/WaPe8mQ5uG8

Track Listing:
1. Fisher King – 5:35
2. Blight – 6:37
3. The Great Hunt – 4:09
4. We Are Chaos – 4:55
5. Sightblinder – 2:47
6. The Man Who Can’t Forget (Part I) – 2:38
7. Crane of Malkier (Part II) – 2:04
8. Red Cain – Fires of Heaven ft. James Delbridge (Lycanthro) – 8:02
Album Length: 36:52

Red Cain, from Calgary, Canada is a modern progressive metal project with Eastern European roots. They have been making waves since their first release in 2016, with award-winning music videos and concept albums “Kindred: Act I” and “Kindred: Act II”. Red Cain’s first two full albums conceptually told a sprawling story of how raw and primal ancient myth collides with modern society and human yearning toward the stars, toward perfection. The albums contained a ton of genre inspirations, from gothic rock to ambient electronica, power, black, and death metal, and were universally lauded for their inventiveness, variety, and strong conceptual content. They continue this momentum with forthcoming releases.

Red Cain is:
Evgeniy Zayarny – Vocals
Samuel Ridout – Guitars
Tyler Corbett – Guitars
Kalie Yan – Bass, Vocals
Taylor Gibson – Drums

For more info: Redcain.ca | Facebook.com/redcainofficial | Instagram.com/redcainarmy | Redcain.bandcamp.com | Spotify

– 30 –

What the press is saying:

“This is a track (Sunshine (Blood Sun Empire) that infuses their progressive and power metal sound, similar to that of Symphony X and Kamelot. Alongside this, there are also faint similarities to bands like Dream Theater and even Korn. This is a nearly 6 minute track that doesn’t let up and doesn’t fear to change up its style throughout.” – Metal Injection

#10 Red Cain !earshot – The National Loud Chart For the Week Ending: Tuesday, February 9, 2021 (Earshot)

“From the proggy goodness of album opener “Kindred”, to the blast beats of “Baltic Fleet”, to the epic closer “Sunshine (Blood Sun Empire), there is something here for every fan of progressive power metal. With this being Act II in Red Cain’s Kindred body of work, I really feel as though I entered a movie theater right in the middle of an epic saga. Each song is a journey in and of itself, but each also contributes to the overall fantastic voyage. I will absolutely be purchasing Act I of this amazing tale and listen from start to finish, the way it was intended. Do yourself a favor and do the same!” – Metal Rules

“If you like your music melodic, mysterious, and gothic, with a progressive power metal base, then this is for you. This has been a joy to review and yet another band to add to my favoured list. ” – The Prog Space

“Zayarny is a powerhouse vocalist and the contortions he forces into Red Cain make for a very diverse record.. the talent behind the record is undeniable, and at the very least, Kindred proved far more creative and thought-provoking than most death metal records I’ve recently tackled. You should give it a shot — even if you’re not a big weenie..” – Angry Metal Guy

“Overall, ‘Kindred: Act II’ is an interesting mix of styles that combine together in technical wizardry to set the backdrop for the continued tales of the warrior Zalcoatl. There’s some unexpected musical influences that bubble to the surface, particularly the liberal use of electronic elements provides a futuristic, yet gothic, element to the tales. Vocally, there’s some clear inspiration from Kamelot going on here. They’re predominantly clean, but with a wide range between high pitched and deep passages. The guitar work is pretty varied as well and at times even hits a distinctly djent groove that seems to appear out of nowhere!… Fans of Kamelot and Mastodon alike will find some common ground with ‘Kindred: Act II’ (and Act I for that matter).” – Uber Rock

“These seasoned metal performers brought me to school with a clear cut album, delivered beautifully across seven tracks. The epic highs and lows of the album leave me wanting more… My hat is off to RED CAIN!” – Metal Temple

“With a flurry of progressive guitars, grandiose vocals and intriguingly wild effects, Red Cain burn brightly from the very start with the opening track, Kindred.” – Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780 | jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations | Instagram @AsherMedia | Tweet @AsherMedia
(Rockshots Records, Extreme Metal Music, Armstrong MF, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Le FestEvil)

0 Descend Into Darkness With ETHEREAL VOID’s Death Metal Single “The Voiceless”; New Album “Gods of a Dead World” Out May 2023

May 9, 2023
by Asher
· Ethereal Void · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 9, 2023

Descend Into Darkness With ETHEREAL VOID’s Death Metal Single “The Voiceless”

New Album “Gods of a Dead World” Out May 2023

Behold Ethereal Void, a triad of malevolence hailing from the dark corners of Ontario, Canada. Their macabre melodies blend together the harmony of death metal with a sinister groove and progressive flair, all in worship to the gaping maw of the void. Born from the emptiness beyond time and space, they defy the norms of mortal ears with a sound that defiles all that has come before. They are ready to unleash their third album “Gods of a Dead World”, which promises to be unlike anything they have done before. They are now streaming their second single “The Voiceless” and share the background of the track:

“Conceptually, this song is about a mass exodus of people from another realm, silently venturing onward to an unfathomable destination. It is definitely one of the more chaotic songs on the album, countered by what could generously be called a thrashy riff in the chorus. The theme is a little more abstract, dealing with a mass exodus of people in a different existential realm.”

Ethereal Void are inspired by the darkness alive within humanity and within the universe as a whole. Throughout their discography, they explore the concepts of entropy, decay, void, and ruin. This third album diverges from their first two and they expect that it will be a welcome change for existing fans. It is more raw, visceral, and primitive than before.

“Gods of a Dead World” is a dark and heavy exploration of war, suffering, and demise. It is recommended for fans of Gojira, Septic Flesh, and The Design Abstract.

Listen to “The Voiceless” via its premiere on NoCleanSinging HERE.

“Gods of a Dead World” is due out May 26, 2023 via Abstrakted Records.

Album pre-order – https://design.bandcamp.com

Lyric Video – Seeds of Hatred – https://youtu.be/ZN2wTUjij8c

Track Listing:
1. Overture to Annihilation (1:35)
2. The Voiceless (2:59)
3. Seeds of Hatred (3:44)
4. The Art of Ruination (2:48)
5. Psychosomatic Suicide (2:59)
6. Decay (Interlude) (0:46)
7. Return to the Void (3:34)
8. The Brown Stone Spire (2:32)
9. Gods of a Dead World (5:49)
Album Length: 26:50

For more info: Facebook.com/EtherealVoid

– 30 –

0 JON OF MARS Releases Otherworldly Playthrough Video For “A Respite!” Off “Songs from Nowhere” (Holcomb Records)

May 8, 2023
by Asher
· Jon of Mars · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal QC – May 5, 2023

JON OF MARS Releases Otherworldly Playthrough Video For “A Respite!” Off “Songs from Nowhere” (Holcomb Records)

Hailing from the red planet, a mysterious creature crawls forth from the farthest depths of the earth to observe the denizens of Earth to decide their ultimate fate, drawn by the curious nuance of human life he seeks to understand the human race, either to help them find salvation or destruction in their greatest and most universal creation: Music. So begins the tale of Jon of Mars, an alien who shares his perspective on Earth in creative ways, set to heavy music. The debut tale of Jon of Mars “Songs from Nowhere” was released in April and now they present a playthrough video for the track “A Respite!”. Vocalist and guitarist Barrett Holcomb explains the story behind the track:

“In “A Respite!” the alien has accessed the internet and is now experiencing internet culture for the first time and all of the worst things that people become on the internet. This was the song that started the band, it was the first part of the project Jordan approached me with, it was finished in 4 weeks’ time and really got us in the groove for the next few songs. It’s about internet culture and the dangers of not having self-love, or trying to become what you see on the internet.”

The album “Songs from Nowhere” is a fusion of styles and genres, along with concepts and ideas that represent the chaos that the human population has experienced in the last few years, along with the entropy that is the online culture of humanity. Musically, Fear Factory influenced a lot of the grooves and lyrical decisions in the album, GWAR inspired the radical ideas behind the lyrical content, there’s a little bit of rock and metal fusion like DOWN, Korn influenced the fusion of genres and differing songs, and Mudvayne was a big influence on the bass and rhythms. Any fans of nu-metal, modern metal, guitars, drums, and blast beats will find Jon Of Mars intriguing.

Watch the playthrough for “A Respite!” at https://youtu.be/0YJfcElj4QI

“Songs from Nowhere” was released on April 20, 2023and is available at Jonofmars.bandcamp.com, Spoti.fi/3mM3cno

Lyric Video – “Mr. Blue” – https://youtu.be/HIoM9C3QicM

Track Listing:
1. Soultest – 1:21
2. A Respite! – 4:31
3. MisinformedNation – 3:40
4. Azag’s Fable – 3:55
5. Mister Blue – 4:44
6. Inhumane Tragedy – 3:35
7. Ghosts – 5:34
Length is 27:22

Album Lineup:
Barrett Holcomb – Vocals and Guitar
Wendall Holmes – Bass Guitar
Jordan Karg – Drums and Keys

Live Lineup:
Barrett Holcomb – Vocals and Guitar
Wendall Holmes – Bass Guitar
AJ Fry – Drums

For more info: Holcombrecords.wixsite.com/jon-of-mars/ | Twitch.tv/jonofmars | Facebook.com/Marsjonmusicman

About: Having cut his teeth in the underground metal and punk scenes of Northwestern PA, Barrett Holcomb formed Jon of Mars out of a collaborative effort after having worked with Berklee Alumni and music producer Jordan Karg. From the pandemonium of the COVID-19 Pandemic Jon of Mars was forged as a musical outlet to vent trapped creativity, as the world had paused and there were no shows for this creative magma to erupt forth upon the world.

“Hailing from the red planet, a mysterious creature crawls forth from the farthest depths of the earth to observe the denizens of Earth to decide their ultimate fate, drawn by the curious nuance of human life he seeks to understand the human race…. either to help them find salvation or destruction in their greatest and most universal creation: Music.”

– 30 –

“Just a good solid groovin’ metal. Some clean and harsh vox, but I like to just say it’s “Metal metal” good” – Moshpit Radio 89.9 FM (Madison, WI)

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780 | jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations | Instagram @AsherMedia | Tweet @AsherMedia
(Rockshots Records, Extreme Metal Music, Armstrong MF, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Toledo DeathFest

0 Wacken Metal Battle USA – National Final – May 13th – San Diego – One Band To Conquer Them All & Play Wacken Open Air 2023

May 8, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Wacken Metal Battle USA

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 8, 2023

Wacken Metal Battle USA – National Final – May 13th – San Diego

DEATHBLOW – SALT LAKE CITY – WINNER
FADRAIT – SAN DIEGO WINNER
STEELLAKE – TEXAS WINNER
FINAL GIRLS – NEW JERSEY WINNER
ANUBIS – WEST COAST WINNER
VILLIANS IN VAIN – PACIFIC NORTHWEST FINAL
AUTUMN LIES BURIED – OHIO FINAL

– One Band To Conquer Them All & Play Wacken Open Air 2023 –

After months of battles across the country, Wacken Metal Battle USA is proud to announce the top seven independent bands performing at the 2023 National Final in San Diego, CA on May 13th at the Brick By Brick (Ticket Info). One band will be crowned champion and represent the USA at the international battle that hosts 29 other participating countries at one of the world’s most prestigious stages and the largest metal festival Wacken Open Air (Aug 4 -6), which has an attendance of over 80,000 people, and held in Wacken, Germany for now over 30 years.

To date, the battle has sent 4 previous bands to perform on metal’s most prestigious stage. San Diego’s Mythraeum (2022), San Diego’s Monarch (2019), Anaheim’s Voices of Ruin (2018) and Philadelphia’s Corpse Hoarder (2017).

This year’s 2023 WMBU national finalists are the following:

DEATHBLOW – Salt Lake City, UT – https://www.facebook.com/deathblowofficial
FADRAIT – San Diego, CA – https://www.facebook.com/Fadrait
STEELLAKE – El Paso, TX – https://www.facebook.com/SteellakeEPTX
FINAL GIRLS – New Jersey – https://www.facebook.com/FINALGIRLSNJ
ANUBIS – Los Angeles, CA – https://www.facebook.com/AnubisBandOfficial
VILLIANS IN VAIN – Eugene, OR – https://www.facebook.com/villainsinvain
AUTUMN LIES BURIED – Clarksville, TN – https://www.facebook.com/autumnliesburied

For the national final, all seven bands will be judged by experienced industry professionals on various categories of professionalism and musicianship for only one to be selected to represent the USA on the world stage at Wacken Open Air.

Guest Judges:
Rod Kukla (Silver Lining Music/Wacken)
Mark Vieira (Parts Unknown Management)
Jon Halperin (Talent Buyer @ Glass House)
More TBA

For the last 4 years of battles (2017-2019, 2022), 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 2023 will be the 32nd edition of the festival and will be held from August 2nd to 5th. The 2023 event is already sold out with a line-up that includes Iron Maiden, Megadeth, The Dropkick Murphys, Wardruna, Jinjer, Beartooth, Trivium, Kataklysm and many more. Details here.

Wacken Battle Trailer Video – https://youtu.be/fjMugRXEc5g

Wacken Metal Battle USA is part of an international competition that sees bands from across the country battle each other for the chance of winning their spot among 29 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 giving independent bands the opportunity 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 move on to perform at the Wacken Open Air 2023 and compete against the winners of 29 other countries in a final global battle. All bands will be judged during battle rounds by respected local music industry representatives.

Rules for participation: https://metalbattleusa.com/rules/

Links:
Metal-Battle.com
MetalBattleUSA.com
Facebook.com/metalbattleusa
Twitter.com/MetalBattleUSA
Instagram.com/metalbattleusa

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Sponsors / Partners:
Bravewords.com
MetalDevastationRadio.com
Metal-Rules.com
V13.net
Dungeon Works Productions
Asher Media Relations
Fatal Illness Management
Come And Take It Productions
Brick By Brick
VonWolfe Entertainment
Aces High Saloon
TMI Collaborations
Funhouse Seattle
SBS Live
Dingbatz
Dean Guitars

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780 | jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations | Instagram @AsherMedia | Tweet @AsherMedia
(Rockshots Records, Extreme Metal Music, Armstrong MF, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Toldeo DeathFest)

0 ARMSTRONG METALFEST Announces 2023 Lineup w/ WARBRINGER, FALLUJAH, ENTERPRISE EARTH, THE ZENITH PASSAGE, VALE OF PNATH, STRIKER and more!

May 5, 2023
by Asher
· Armstrong Metal Fest · Music News

EWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 5, 2023

ARMSTRONG METALFEST Announces 2023 Lineup

w/ WARBRINGER, FALLUJAH, ENTERPRISE EARTH, THE ZENITH PASSAGE, VALE OF PNATH, STRIKER and more!

July 14-15 – Armstrong, BC, Canada

Watch the official video recap of AMF 2019 here.
(video created by Mayne Brand Productions)

AMF Spotify Playlist 2023 Lineup Here.

British Columbia’s rocky mountains will be quivering this summer from the thunderous sounds of this year’s 2023 lineup for Armstrong MetalFest being held on July 14th and 15th in the Okanagan Valley at the Hassen Arena in Armstrong.

The 2023 lineup features headliners LA thrashers WARBRINGER, San Francisco tech-death giants FALLUJAH, festival alumni Spokane, WA’s ENTERPRISE EARTH, and Los Angeles’ THE ZENITH PASSAGE, along with Denver’s H.P. Lovecraft extreme metallers VALE OF PNATH, and Edmonton’s Juno award-winning heavy metal champions STRIKER among the 28 bands performing on the two-day extreme music festival. (full lineup listed below)

“The artist list for the 13th annual Armstrong Metalfest is here! The announcement is definitely a little later than we would have hoped, but it’s definitely worth the wait! Our team has crafted the biggest lineup the festival has ever seen! Six international acts alongside some of Canada’s best. We are looking forward to seeing the streets of Armstrong busy with metalheads from all over! We are straight up getting ready for the biggest year yet. Our pre-sale tickets before the lineup announcement have been the highest of any year since we started.” says Jessie Valstar – General Manager/Co-founder.

Tickets are available at https://armstrongmetalfest.ca/tickets/

Prices are as follows:

Pre-sales $179.99 (Until July 12th)

Door sales weekend pass $219.99

One day admission $119.99

Armstrong MetalFest 2023 Lineup:
Warbringer (Los Angeles, CA)
Fallujah (San Francisco, CA)
Enterprise Earth (Spokane, WA)
The Zenith Passage (Los Angeles, CA)
Vale of Pnath (Denver, CO)
Striker (Edmonton, AB)
Golers (Vancouver, BC)
Wormwitch (Vancouver, BC)
Greyhawk (Seattle, WA)
Pound (Seattle, WA)
The Hallowed Catharsis (Vancouver, BC)
Empress (Vancouver, BC)
Blackwater Burial (Vancouver, BC)
Liminal Shroud (Victoria, BC)
Atavistia (Vancouver, BC)
Truent (Vancouver, BC)
Nomad (Okanagan, BC)
Tymo (Edmonton, AB)
Our Last Crusade (Calgary, AB)
Traceless Dimensions (Kelowna, BC)
Bogue Brigade (Edmonton, AB)
Thousand Arrows (Vancouver, BC)
No More Moments (Siksika Nation, AB)
Storm The Empire (Kelowna, BC)
Blackthrone Ascension (Vancouver, BC)
Cranial Fungus (Okanagan, BC)
Bleak Valley (Kamloops, BC)
Param-Nesia (Vancouver, BC)

2023 follows AMF‘s most successful event to date in 2022, which saw the festival’s highest attendance on record along with it marking its return after a two-year hiatus due to the Covid pandemic. The 2023 edition promises to be an eclectic earth-shaking lineup with bands from across Canada and beyond.

Since 2009 (minus pause years 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid pandemic), West Metal Entertainment and Armstrong Metalfest have not only fostered the talent of hundreds of local bands, but have imported well-known, international acts to the quiet, little Canadian town of Armstrong, British Columbia.

Each year up to 700 metalheads from Canada and the USA descend into the picturesque Okanagan Valley and under the blistering sun they spend three days camping, taking in as much metal over two days, participating in wrestling events, scavenger hunts, and catching up with their metal family.

The festival has seen such renowned headliners as Kataklysm, Cattle Decapitation, Archspire, Nekrogoblikon, Origin, Rivers of Nihil, and Beyond Creation as well as emerging artists from across North America. At the end of the revelry, the festival disappears without a trace, leaving the landscape as pristine as it has always been.

West Metal Entertainment is a non-profit society that not only puts on Armstrong Metal Festival every year in Armstrong, B.C., but gives bands opportunities to play different venues throughout the region including all-ages shows, to encourage musical passion in kids as well as adults.

Partners:
WCMFA
Vox and Hops
Rancho Vignola
Creative BC
Province of BC
Shepherds Hardware
Askews Foods
Armstrong Coop
ACE Containers
Asher Media Relations
Armadillo Trailers
Staggs Head
Nor-Val
Exclaim!
Bravewords
Absolute Underground Mag
Broken Neck Radio
V13
Metal-Rules
Trash Talk w/ Nate
Valstar Electric
Voets

For more info:
Armstrongmetalfest.ca
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter

Festival Press Materials HERE.

What the press is saying:

“Armstrong Metalfest brings aggressive music to the North Okanagan” – Global BC News

Kelowna Now: Armstrong Metal Festival Co-founder reflects on a decade of metal – Video Interview here.

CHBC – Global Okanagan: Metalheads celebrate a decade of gathering in Armstrong – Video Interview here.

“In the past, metalheads had to travel to Germany to experience the rush of a big festival, such as Wacken Open Air. But local headbangers decided to bring that feeling home with Armstrong Metalfest.” – Vernon Morning Star

“Go Big or Stay at Home: Armstrong has that welcoming feeling for a rock show.” – The Valley Voice

“To witness such a gathering of talent is an absolute privilege, and for that fact alone, I will certainly be returning to Armstrong Metal Fest.” – Beatroute BC

“This festival is now going to be my yearly must-go-to event and if you’re a metal head that hasn’t attended or a curious metal voyeur, do yourself a favour and check it out, you will not regret it.” – Abort Mag

“The Armstrong Metalfest is one such event and has grown from its initial, humble beginnings seven years ago to be a regular mainstay, with its south-central BC location making for a popular summertime destination for fans and bands alike.” – Decibel Mag

Named one of the out-of-town music festivals worth the trip by The Vancouver Sun

“For metalheads, this is a great vacation where groups of all sizes can enjoy their favourite musical genre in a fun, energized environment. Not to mention, the camping!” – The Permanent Rain Press

– 30 –

—

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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

0 Out Now! Israel’s NEOLIA Self-Titled Debut Progressive Metal Album + New Music Video “A Better Version of You” (Live at Barby)

May 5, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Neolia

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 5, 2023

Out Now! Israel’s NEOLIA Self-Titled Debut Progressive Metal Album

New Music Video “A Better Version of You” (Live at Barby)

Album Mastered by Howie Weinberg (Metallica, Pantera, Nirvana)

L-R: Neolia Current Line Up – Tomer Mash (Bass), Yair Ben Shalom (Drums), Ben Reiss (Vocals), Guy Greenberg (Guitar), Inbar Davish (Guitar)

Photo Credit – Avi Veldman

Photo Edit by: Rana Sneider

Israel’s Neolia is a force to be reckoned with in the world of progressive metal, and their self-titled debut album is proof of that. With intricate instrumentation, soaring vocals, and unrelenting energy, this album is a must-listen for any fan of progressive music. According to the band, this album has traveled a lifetime with them already, and they are excited to be releasing it to the world. They share their thoughts:

“Being able to shine a light and allowing others to see, hear, and feel what we feel this elaborate vision is in itself a blessing and it is what keeps us going. We wanted to allow new emotions and new subjects that we had felt were not given the proper attention, such as child neglection, mental illnesses, personal family issues, torture and more to be given the option to be approached from a perspective of a fictional story in order for people to be able to connect to the complexity of the lyrics more easily.”

They continue to explain that although this is a concept album, each track presents its own unique characteristics and expresses a variety of styles and musical ideas that are derived from world music, jazz, and electronic at times. The album also incorporates different interludes some atmospheric and some piano based adding more emotional layers and subcontext to the mood changes in the album. It is intended to feel artistic in its nature and to convey a message of freedom.

Neolia was formed to give to others and to encourage people to come together. They give in a few dimensions — one is personal and spiritual, and the other is musical and expressive.

The self-titled album was mastered by Howie Weinberg (Metallica, Pantera, Nirvana) and is available as of May 5th, 2023.

In addition to the album’s release, the band is sharing their latest live video for the track “A Better Version of You”, which was captured during a recent performance at the legendary Tel-Aviv venue Barby.

Watch the video at https://youtu.be/pI_qa14kZ-k

Album order is available at https://neolia.bandcamp.com/album/neolia

Previous Videos:

Track Listing:
1. The Shed – 3:44
2. The Shed Outro – 0:52
3. Your Prophecy – 7:44
4. Dance of Violence – 7:10
5. Carried Away – 5:49
6. Carried Away Outro – 1:24
7. Karma – 4:09 ft. guest vocals Ran Yerushalmi
8. Karma Outro – 0:44
9. Day In Day Out – 11:06
10. Anchors – 7:14
11. Rise and Fall – 5:06
12. Blow the Leaves – 7:02
13. A Better Version of You – 4:53
14. Refahim – 8:00
Album Length: 74:57

For more info: Neoliaband.com | Facebook.com/neoliaband | Instagram.com/neoliaband

– 30 –

“This band is going to be huge. You know how Tool and the Mars Volta developed into their own sound and how they have a legion of devoted fans? That’s what Israel’s Neolia is about to do with this self titled debut album.” – Transcending the Mundane

“Karma”, (the video) accompanied by a beautiful shot somewhere in the deserts of Israel, has that fantastic balance of aggression and melody that I love about alternative metal. At its more frenetic moments, like the excellent transitions from the heavier moments near the end of the track and the more melodic chorus, it reminds me of The Mars Volta, and that is one big compliment. Elsewhere, Yerushalmi’s guest vocals are expertly utilized to balance the rawer, more harried vocals of the band’s own singer, Ben Reiss. Together, they present the major melodic force on the track, while the instruments deliver well written, complex, and undeniable groove. This mix is exactly what alternative metal is so good for, hitting on both the emotional and the visceral level of enjoyment. The track ends up being both interesting to dissect and take apart but also something you can move and sing to. If the band’s self-titled is as good as this, and the other tracks released so far seem to indicate that that is indeed the case, then we’re in for a treat. Make sure you head on over to the band’s Bandcamp to pre-order it; I think it’s going to be a lot of fun!” – Heavy Blog Is Heavy

“Neolia’s Self titled debut album is a reflection of years of soaking up music of different genres from rock to pop to world music and whatnot. It’s a fusion of bits upon bits of pieces absorbed and processed and then spat out from a personal perspective. In its musical aspect, its rock and metal based, but with a twist of African, Latin, Jazz, and ambient that reaches the spectrum of high and low, tender, extreme, and crazy.” – New Prog Releases

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780 | jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations | Instagram @AsherMedia | Tweet @AsherMedia
(Rockshots Records, Extreme Metal Music, Armstrong MF, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Le FestEvil)

0 Streaming Now! Montreal’s VVON DOGMA I (ex-Unexpect – 9 String Bassist) Abrasive New Album “The Kvlt of Glitch”

May 4, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Vvon Dogma I

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 4, 2023

Streaming Now! Montreal’s VVON DOGMA I (ex-Unexpect – 9 String Bassist) Abrasive New Album “The Kvlt of Glitch”

New Album “The Kvlt of Glitch” Out May 5th

Fans of Radiohead, Meshuggah, and Deftones are sure to appreciate VVON DOGMA I‘s unique, bass-centric, progressive metal sound. The band takes inspiration from these bands, but puts their own spin on it, creating something that is entirely their own. With “The Kvlt of Glitch”, being released on May 5th, VVON DOGMA I is set to solidify its place as one of the most exciting and innovative bands in the experimental rock genre. To further hype this release, they are sharing an advance full stream of the album via its premiere on TheProgSpace HERE.

Band founder and bassist Frederick Filiatrault (ChaotH) adds:

“Musically I come from a world where you have to dare to do something different so… hopefully this album takes the listener a bit out of their comfort zone. If it can reach and touch just one person I’ll be happy. Again coming from a band (Unexpect) that reached tens of thousands of people worldwide, it’s quite humbling to start it all over on my own so I’ll just be happy to put it out there really.”

Vvon Dogma I came to be mostly out of 9-string bassist Chaoth’s desire to experiment with different lower tunings and different sounds. He was already starting to think of a side project but when his previous band Unexpect disbanded he slowly but surely started creating another entity to keep experimenting and crafting. The album “The Kvlt of Glitch” was produced by Chaoth along with Blaise Borboën-Léonard, Chris Donaldson (Cryptopsy), and Dave Evangelista and was mixed and mastered by Max Lacroix at House of Gain Studio.

Synthetic feeling and melancholic, the album is chaotic, well thought out, and something different that will intrigue progressive metal fans. It is highly recommended for fans of Igorrr, Deftones, and Sleep Token.

“The Kvlt of Glitch” is due out May 5, 2023.

Album pre-order – Vvondogmai.bandcamp.com

Music Video – “One Eye” – https://youtu.be/ebEmZojXIgk

Lyric Video – “The Void” – https://youtu.be/G5MTer7TkMA

In addition to the album, Chaoth has launched bass lessons via his Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/chaoth

Track Listing:
1. The Void – 4:45
2. Tabula Rasa – 4:25
3. Triangles and Crosses – 4:33
4. Day of The Dead – 4:36
5. One Eye – 4:34
6. Hivemind – 2:47
7. Lithium Blue – 4:51
8. 2 + 2 = 5 – 3:11 (Radiohead Cover)
9. Hurt – 3:58
10. The Great Maze – 6:54
Album Length: 44:40

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: VVON DOGMA I
• All songs written by: CHAOTH and VVON DOGMA I (except 2+2=5 written by Radiohead)
• Produced by: Blaise Borboën-Léonard, Chris Donaldson, Dave Evangelista, Chaoth
• Mixed by: Max Lacroix at House of Gain studio
• Mastered by: Max Lacroix at House of Gain studio
• Album Artwork by: Patrick Filteau and MidJourney
• Canadian Content (MAPL) (for Canadian

Vvon Dogma I – Album and Live Band Lineup:
ChaotH (Frederick F) – 9 String bass
Kevin Alexander – Drums
Yoan MP – Guitar
Blaise Borboën – Synth, Strings, Production

For more info: Facebook.com/VvonDogmaI | Instagram.com/vvondogmai | Twitter.com/vvondogmai | Youtube.com/@vvondogmai8596

– 30 –

“The invigorating glitched out bliss they have on display here is as dense as it is rewarding, with nothing falling out of place, yet with everything shifting all the time. If “The Void” is any indication of what’s to come, I seriously cannot wait to hear the rest of The Kvlt of Glitch, when it lands on May 5th independently.” – Everything Is Noise

“Vvon Dogma are back with a new video for their new record, The Kvlt of Glitch, in the form of the track “One Eye.” It features some seriously insane nine-string bass playing… Chaoth, their nine-string bassist, is a big driver behind their experimental sound and their popularity.” – Metal Sucks

“The album promises to push boundaries with its unconventional approach to music.” – Metal Insider

Unsubscribe | Update your profile | Montreal, QC

0 Streaming Now! Canada’s SOVEREIGN COUNCIL Pave Their Own Distinct Path Through Power Metal With New EP “World On Fire”

May 4, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Sovereign Council

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 4, 2023

Streaming Now! Canada’s SOVEREIGN COUNCIL Pave Their Own Distinct Path Through Power Metal With New EP “World On Fire”

L-R – Joe Moon – Lead Guitarist & Backup Vocals, Brandon Schneider – Drummer, Lisa Thompson – Lead Vocals, Shaun Vanhooser – Bassist, Chris Thompson – Rhythm Guitarist
Photo Credit: Dark Moon Productions

Canada’s Sovereign Council embraces metal head-on, with all of its throttling guitar riffs, intense bass lines, driving drums, and fluctuating vocals that are at times guttural and at others more mellow and introspective. They have two albums under their belts thus far and the third “World On Fire” is out on May 5th, for those looking for the next thing in power metal. The EP was written and composed from a place of love and vulnerability to show a different side of the band who have adjusted their lineup and musical trajectory since their last album “Laniakea”. They explain:

“We feel that the sound we have created here is still at its core very “Sovereign Council” but has matured and developed into something greater. We are extremely proud of this new sound and cannot wait to see how people respond to it. We have another set of songs nearly completed as well; these new songs continue our new direction and add another new edge as well as a heavier feel. You’ll have to stick around for the next release to find out what that edge is.”

For this EP, the band picked five of their strongest tracks which follow the same feel and give listeners a cohesive listening experience through a range of emotions and imagery ranging from inspiring, motivational lyrics to darker subject matter.

The EP was produced by guitarist Joe Moon; mixed and mastered by Silver Wings Studios and the EP cover artwork was done by Martin Trottier. Melodic and powerful, Sovereign Council puts a distinct spin on progressive power metal. They will be enjoyed by those who have Lacuna Coil, Evergrey, and Evanescence in their rotation.

Listen to “World On Fire” in full via its EP stream premiere on MetalInsider HERE.

“World On Fire” is due out May 5, 2023, and available for pre-order at https://sovereigncouncil.bandcamp.com

https://youtu.be/fah0ZMFPfr4

Track Listing:
1. World On Fire – 4:43
2. The Wait – 4:24
3. Aberration – 4:00
4. Breathe You In – 3:34
5. Of The Ashes – 4:13
EP Length: 20:52

For more info: Facebook.com/SovereignCouncilpage | Twitter.com/sovcouncil | Instagram.com/sovereigncouncil

– 30 –

““World On Fire” is simply an excellent EP all around. Every track has something unique to offer and it is easy to imagine any of the five songs becoming a favourite depending on the listener. The melodies are catchy, the production is clean and the talent is immense. In particular, I would recommend this release to fans of bands with a more modern take on symphonic metal, such as recent Within Temptation, Beyond The Black, Dark Horse | White Horse and Phantom Elite to name a few. I’m excited to see what comes next for SOVEREIGN COUNCIL. They have certainly made a fan out of me.” – Female Fronted Power

“World on Fire marks a welcome return for Sovereign Council, showing a band with a will to break genre boundaries” – Metal Observer

0 Moncton’s DINER DRUGS Release Video For Punchy, Groovy “This War” Off Upcoming EP “42” + Tour Dates (NL, PEI, NB, NS) w/ CANCER BATS

May 4, 2023
by Asher
· Diner Drugs · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 4, 2023

Moncton’s DINER DRUGS Release Video For Punchy, Groovy “This War” Off Upcoming EP “42”

Tour Dates w/ Cancer Bats, Thousand Knives

Diner Drugs is a four-piece stoner metal punk crew, born out of a desire to defeat the boredom of east coast living. Diner Drugs is fast, loud and are always keen to turn up the heat with catchy choruses and deep vocal harmonies while sticking to their deep stoner metal roots. They are ready to hit the road this spring and have a flashy new single “This War” coming out to get fans excited. The single is the first look at a new EP that will be coming out this year. The band explains in detail:

“This is the first single off of our latest EP titled “42”. We are proud of this loud and driving track, complete with catchy choruses and an epic, heavy ending. This song features powerful vocals, with lyrics warning about the dangers of assuming things will work out for the best, without cautiously preparing for the worst. So much hard work from so many people went into this, it’s loud and fast and we hope everyone digs it.”

The tour this spring will take Diner Drugs all over the east coast of Canada. With relaxed attitudes and groovy riffs, they enjoy bringing fun metal to people and enticing them to headbang. Loud and energetic is their goal, and their lyrics come from both personal experience and witnessing the experiences of others. They live in a have-not town, so they are more than familiar with hard times. They draw from these troubles for inspiration and hope to maybe help anyone stuck in these situations feel a little less alone in their battles.

It’s loud, fast, meaningful metal, and according to the band the song means a lot more to them this time around and they feel it reflects in the upcoming record. They are recommended for fans of Cancer Bats, Dead Quiet, and Mokomakai.

Watch and listen to “This War” at https://youtu.be/XwLLFLMmrzU

https://youtu.be/XwLLFLMmrz

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3p4Ub9H

The EP “42” is due out via BatSkull Records later this year.

Tour Dates:
May 12 – St. John’s, NL – The Deck
May 13 – St. John’s, NL – The Abbey (All Ages)
May 13 – St. John’s, NL – The Deck
May 24 – Charlottetown, PEI – Trailside w/ Cancer Bats, Thousand Knives
May 25 – Moncton, NB – Xeroz w/ Cancer Bats, Thousand Knives
May 26 – Halifax, NS – The Seahorse w/ Cancer Bats, Thousand Knives
May 27 – Sydney, NS – Curling Club w/ Cancer Bats, Thousand Knives

For more info:
SheSaidFeckRecords.com/diner-drugs-epk
Facebook.com/DinerDrugs
Twitter.com/DinerDrugs
Youtube
Instagram.com/DinerDrugs

Management – She Said Feck – shesaidfeckrecords@gmail.com

– 30 –

“Jack Of All Trades” uses clever drum timing between guitar riffs which assaults the senses in different ways and rattles your eardrums like an off-balanced washing machine. The skate punk style writing of this track will have you wondering if NOFX and Suicidal Tendencies had a baby.” – Sarah Hellingwerf, The East

“Diner Drugs is one of those “f&*k all” bands that play heavy, fast and dirty rock.” – Jamie Robash, Divide and Conquer Music

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780 | jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations | Instagram @AsherMedia | Tweet @AsherMedia
(Rockshots Records, Extreme Metal Music, Armstrong MetalFest, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Toledo DeathFest)

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