Category: Music News

0 TRISKELYON Forge Classics Into Steel w/ New Cover Album “Metalmorphosis” Out Aug 2026; Streaming First Single “Heartbreaker”

June 26, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Triskelyon

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 26, 2026

TRISKELYON Forge Classics Into Steel w/ New Cover Album “Metalmorphosis” Out Aug 2026

Streaming First Single – Cover of Pat Benatar’s “Heartbreaker” ft. Vocals from Amanda Jackman (Category VI)

Canada’s unstoppable metal force Triskelyon is set to unleash “Metalmorphosis,” a digital‑only onslaught that reimagines iconic rock and pop classics as a fierce storm of heavy‑metal intensity. The release arrives on all major digital platforms on August 21, 2026, via Moribund Records.

Founded in 2021 by guitarist and mastermind Geoff Waye (Category VI), Triskelyon has rapidly risen through the ranks of the underground with the acclaimed releases “Downfall,” “Artificial Insanity,” “Shattered Elysium,” and “Maelstrom of Chaos.” Now, the band unleashes its boldest concept yet, a full album dedicated entirely to crushing cover versions, forged in the fires of thrash, speed, power, and traditional metal.

Aptly titled “Metalmorphosis,” this release represents the complete metalization and transformation of timeless classics into high-octane metallic weapons. From the arena-sized power of Bryan Adams’ “Summer of ’69,” to the dark intensity of Tears for Fears’ “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” Triskelyon reinvents each track with razor-sharp riffs, thunderous rhythms, soaring vocals, and explosive solo work. Fan favorites from previous albums also return, including the band’s acclaimed renditions of “Hungry Like the Wolf,” “Major Tom (Coming Home),” “It Doesn’t Really Matter,” and “Nobody’s Business.”

Covering icons such as Tears for Fears, Pat Benatar, Duran Duran, Billy Idol, Men Without Hats, Men at Work, Platinum Blonde, Peter Schilling, and Bryan Adams, “Metalmorphosis” stands as both a tribute to the golden age of rock and pop and a declaration of Triskelyon’s limitless creativity. Each song is reborn heavier, faster, darker, and more powerful than ever before, while still preserving the unforgettable hooks and melodies that made them legendary.

“Metalmorphosis” is more than a covers album; it is a celebration of transformation through metal. A relentless collision of nostalgia and aggression, this digital-only release proves once again that Triskelyon can take any musical form and forge it into molten steel. As before, all songs were mixed and mastered by Michael Small. Album art by Ellim.

Today, Triskelyon shares the first single, their cover of Pat Benatar‘s “Heartbreaker,” featuring vocals from Amanda Jackman from Category VI.

Listen to “Heartbreaker” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5H1ljv2GzLk

Track Listing:
1. Everybody Wants to Rule the World (Tears for Fears cover)
2. Summer of 69 (Bryan Adams cover)
3. The Safety Dance (Men Without Hats cover)
4. Overkill (Men at Work cover)
5. Heartbreaker (Pat Benatar cover)
6. Nobody’s Business (Billy Idol cover) <Downfall album>
7. It Doesn’t Really Matter (Platinum Blonde Cover) <Artificial Insanity album>
8. Hungry Like The Wolf (Duran Duran Cover) <Shattered Elysium album>
9. Major Tom (Coming Home) (Peter Schilling Cover) <Maelstrom of Chaos album>

Note: ALL Album Released covers are the same except “Major Tom,” which is a remaster (not a remix).

Note: 5 brand new covers packaged with the 4 covers already done into one compilation album!

Follow TRISKELYON:
Facebook | Bandcamp

Follow Moribund Records:
Moribund Website | Facebook | Instagram | Bandcamp

– 30 –

“One of my favorite albums of the year” ~Brutally Delicious Podcast

““Hellbound Hellions” follows and is just a great tune. That scream in the beginning and I knew immediately that Pete Healey was back for another album with Waye. The last of the opening trio and it is a slayer. Killer thrash riffs and Healey’s soaring vocals and a really sick solo makes this one of my favorites on the album.4.5/5” – Metal Rules

“It’s refreshing, for once, to discover a thrash band that aren’t geared towards utter devastation but, rather, crafting a record that an audience can simply put on and vibe to. With more than forty-five minutes to work with, the band still stuck to their guns and applied songwriting that saw every minute feel earned and needed for what their performance entailed.” – The Razor’s Edge

“Waye has shown he can write in any metal style and the guys he got together to perform are world class. The production is pretty big too so, if you like Megadeth, Agent Steel, Exodus, Overkill, etc. then there will be something on here that you like. Me? I liked it all! Hopefully, Canadian metal will be taken a bit more seriously with this release.” – My Global Mind

“classical Thrash Metal tracks and many 80s vibes.” – Metal-Temple

“Heavy, pounding, in-your-face, power metal-laced thrash” – Metal Crypt

“A who’s who of musicians in the Canadian Thrash scene! Riffs and soloing are nothing short of fantastic!” – MetalNoise

“Powerful at the right point but also epic, with sharp and anthemic vocal parts” MetalHead.it

“Power-Thrash equipped with murderous riffs on a technically first-class level with changeable exciting vocal variability.” – FFM-Rock

“Minimal filler and maximum melody!” – Heavy Music HQ

“Tighter than a shark’s arsehole and shows that Triskelyon are continuing to do what they do best.” – Metal-Digest

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0 Out Now! DIRTY SHIRT’s New Album “Dirty Thirty (The Best Of)” – 30 Years of Folkcore! + Full Live Video at Rockstadt Extreme Fest 2025

June 26, 2026
by Asher
· Dirty Shirt · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 26, 2026

Out Now! DIRTY SHIRT’S New Album “Dirty Thirty (The Best Of)” – 30 Years of Folkcore!

+ Full Live Video at Rockstadt Extreme Fest 2025

+ 2026 EU Tour Dates

Romanian folkcore metal innovators Dirty Shirt proudly announce the release of their new album “Dirty Thirty (The Best Of),” arriving June 26th, 2026, on digital platforms, limited double‑CD digipak, and vinyl. The career‑spanning collection celebrates more than 30 years of one of Eastern Europe’s most distinctive and genre‑defying metal bands.

Featuring 30 tracks that chart Dirty Shirt’s evolution from their earliest recordings to their most recent material, and two new singles, “FOMO” and “Büntető” from the band’s upcoming studio album.

The anthology draws from every era of the band’s discography, including:

Very Dirty (2000) – 1 track (newly re‑recorded version from Pandemic Special)

Same Shirt Different Day (2010) – 2 tracks

Freak Show (2013) – 4 tracks + orchestral “Away”

Dirtylicious (2015) – 7 tracks

Letchology (2019) – 7 tracks

Get Your Dose Now & Pandemic Special (2022) – 7 tracks

Several early‑era songs have been newly remastered by longtime sound engineer Adrian “Bila” Urițescu. At the same time, the album’s artwork, created by internationally acclaimed artist Costin Chioreanu, continues a creative partnership now spanning more than 13 years. The project was partially funded through a successful 2025 crowdfunding campaign and features contributions from over 40 musicians.

Keyboardist/guitarist Mihai Tivadar reflects on the milestone:

“Dirty Shirt became much more than a band. It became a family… This album is a celebration of everyone who has been part of these thirty years.”

CD and Vinyl order available at the following links:

https://www.dirty-merch.com/

https://dirtyshirt.bandcamp.com/

Digital – https://linktr.ee/dirtyshirtband

Alongside the new album announcement, Dirty Shirt has released their full live performance from Rockstadt Extreme Fest 2025, one of the most important concerts in the band’s history.

This marked the band’s third appearance at Romania’s premier metal festival, and their first time as co‑headliners, performing on a main stage during a prime‑time slot before 10,000+ fans. The closing‑night lineup also featured Static‑X and Sepultura, with a standout moment occurring when drummer Sergio Ponti joined Sepultura on stage for a special performance of “Kaiowas.”

The 2025 edition was especially emotional, serving as the final Rockstadt Extreme Fest held in Râșnov, the festival’s home for more than a decade. Dirty Shirt’s full set captures both a defining moment in their career and the atmosphere of a festival that has become a landmark of the European metal scene.

Watch the band’s full set performance at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hSEJmpKThQ

Dirty Shirt will also be back on the road for the summer season and a series of fantastic open-air festivals in Romania, Germany, and Slovakia (dates listed below).

Tour Dates:
5 JUN – Nocturnal – Alexandria
18 JUN – Bikers for Humanity – Brezoi
26 JUN – Rock pod kameňom – Snina (Sk)
28 JUN – Zilele Resitei – Resita (Ro)
4 JUL – Praetorian Gates – Alba lulia
11 JUL – Guitar Day – Cluj Napoca
17 JUL – Bucharest Town Charity Run
29 JUL – Wacken Open Air (De)
1 AUG – Bucovina Motor Fest – Suceava
8 AUG – CityFest – Ziar Nad Hronom (Sk)
22 AUG – Rock Revolution – Bobâlna
3 SEP – Guitar Meeting – Sibiu
More Shows T.B.A.

For more info: https://dirty-shirt.com/

About Dirty Shirt:
For over 30 years, Dirty Shirt has stood as one of Eastern Europe’s most original and successful rock/metal acts. Formed in the mid‑90s as a wedding band, they evolved into a genre‑blending powerhouse, fusing modern heavy music with the vibrant energy of Eastern European traditional sounds. Their explosive live shows and innovative approach have taken them to major festivals across Europe, including Hellfest, Wacken Open Air, Pol’and’Rock, Electric Castle, and more—and earned praise from outlets such as Metal Hammer, Rock Hard, Metalsucks, and Hard Rock Mag. Dirty Shirt has performed over 1000 shows in 17 countries and shared stages with Megadeth, Godsmack, Gogol Bordello, Skindred, and Orphaned Land.

-30-

“Long time readers will know by now that I am partial to the weirder side of heavy music. Dirty Shirt certainly has my attention this week. They’re like a mix of 6:33, Russkaja, and Turisas. This is bombastic, fun metal with Romanian folk mixed in. ” – Metal Injection

“Dirty Shirt, Your New Favorite Transylvanian Folk-Core Band ” – Metal Sucks

“DIRTY SHIRT only sound like DIRTY SHIRT.” – Metal Temple

“Is it catchy? Yes. Is it fun? Yes. Is it utterly mental? Yes. Highly recommended” – Metal Observer

” “…you’ve never heard anything quite like this before”” – Sonic Abuse

“This album is buoyant, blistering and bolshy; you certainly want to get your dose now!” 8/10 – Powerplay Magazine (2022 – Get Your Dose Now!)

“”Whoa! ‘Get Your Dose Now!’ is definitely not your average metal album. It’s simply something that you won’t hear anywhere else. Dirty Shirt is the real deal with extraordinarily talented musicians and a uniqueness that sets them apart from the crowd. If you’re in the market for some new music, this band offers something for everyone, from hardcore metal and thrash to tribal and traditional. It’s like your grandmother’s goulash recipe, a little of this and a little of that, with the end result being magical and inimitable.” – Uber Rock (2022 – Get Your Dose Now!)

“Dirty Shirt did a good job again and ‘Get Your Dose Now!’ is a very nice album to listen to and it deserves a listen.” – Folk-Metal.nl (2022 – Get Your Dose Now!)

“with DIRTY SHIRT you have joy in life and fun in music. They ignite a light in the currently dark world. A good mood is guaranteed. So get your dose today, now, get vaccinated against sadness and depression. before it’s too late. – Saitenkult (2022 – Get Your Dose Now!)

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0 Vancouver’s TRUENT Unleashes New Music Video “Vilemaker” ft. New Vocalist Darian Mazloomi (Cryptic Enslavement, Argent Strand)

June 26, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Truent

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 26, 2026

TRUENT Unleashes New Music Video “Vilemaker” ft. New Vocalist Darian Mazloomi (Cryptic Enslavement, Argent Strand)

L-R – Matthew Pancoust (Guitar) | Jason Whitewick-Bonenfant (Bass) | Darian Mazloomi (Vocals) | Nicolas Landry (Drums) | Eli Slamang (Guitar)

Photo Credit – Paradox Visuals – Instagram: @_prdxvisuals

Canadian death juggernaut Truent returns with a vengeance as they release their crushing new single and music video “Vilemaker,” marking the official debut of new vocalist Darian Mazloomi (also of Cryptic Enslavement, Argent Strand) and new bassist Jason Whitewick-Bonenfant (also of Sideon).

“Vilemaker” is a ferocious statement of intent, fast, technical, groove‑laden, and lyrically dense. Inspired by the Berserk “Golden Age” arc, the song explores the rise of a tyrant who climbs toward absolute power through manipulation, deceit, and the bodies of those he destroys along the way. Musically, it’s one of the band’s most crushing offerings to date, packed with razor‑sharp riffing, relentless momentum, and the unmistakable chemistry of Truent’s newly energized lineup.

The single also marks the first lyrical contribution from Mazloomi, whose arrival injects a new level of intensity into the band’s sound.

“‘Vilemaker’ is the most recent song we’ve written. There was a lot of deliberation on the structure and placement of certain parts, but it came together in a very satisfying way. It’s also the first song Darian has written lyrics for,” adds drummer Nicolas Landry.

According to drummer Nicolas Landry, fans can expect a noticeable evolution in the band’s songwriting and sonic identity. The new material is raw, dynamic, and intentionally less polished than much of today’s hyper‑produced metal, without sacrificing clarity or tone.

“We’ve really strived for a rawer sound this time around… This is some of our most dynamic music thus far, and we wanted the production to reflect that.”

Lyrically, the upcoming releases lean heavily into nihilism, frustration, and societal disillusionment, each song telling its own story through vivid imagery and shifting points of view.

Truent will release a limited but steady stream of singles throughout 2026, each showcasing the band’s sharpened songwriting, expanded influences, and collaborative creative process. The new material continues to blend tech‑death, groove, and metalcore elements.

Truent has spent the last several years carving out a reputation as one of Canada’s most exciting rising metal bands. Their technical, groove‑driven approach has earned them stage time alongside Archspire, Decapitated, Voivod, Revocation, Signs of the Swarm, and more. With a refreshed lineup and a wave of new music on the horizon, Truent enters 2026 with renewed force and a rapidly growing audience.

Listen to and watch the music video for “Vilemaker” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxQnYt0QWKI

Add to your Spotify Playlist – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/truent/vilemaker

Band Lineup:
Nicolas Landry – Drums
Matthew Pancoust – Guitar
Eli Slamang – Guitar (also of Terrifier)
Jason Whitewick-Bonenfant – Bass (also of Sideon)
Darian Mazloomi – Vocals (also of Cryptic Enslavement, Argent Strand)

More info: https://ffm.bio/truentmetal

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“Maple Ridge’s Truent draw out the progressive side of thrash metal in a tightly knit package similar to greats such as Lamb Of God, Revocation or even Gojira. The band aren’t happy to sit on their hands slaying overdone thrash metal, opting to mix in melodic riffing, experimental passages of prog metal and more.” Altpress

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0 AS OCEANS DIVIDE’s New Single “World Collapse” Is A Powerful Surge of Chaos, Melody, and Emotional Weight; Debut EP in Memory of Late Bassist

June 25, 2026
by Asher
· As Oceans Divide · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 25, 2026

AS OCEANS DIVIDE’s New Single “World Collapse” Is A Powerful Surge of Chaos, Melody, and Emotional Weight

Debut EP in Memory of Bassist Dale Burrows

L-R – Matt McGuire – Drums, Thomas Ireland – Guitar, Tom Emmans – Vocals, Eric Camilleri – Guitar

Ontario metalcore force As Oceans Divide continue their ascent with the announcement of their next single, “World Collapse”. The track marks the third release from the band’s upcoming self‑titled EP, following the momentum of previous singles “White Noise” and “Into The Dying Light.”

The lyric video for “World Collapse” expands the EP’s overarching themes of tension, internal conflict, and emotional weight, concepts visually represented in the EP’s striking artwork: a chained sea serpent wrapped around an anchor, thrashing against a violent ocean backdrop. The imagery mirrors the band’s sonic identity: a constant push and pull between aggression and melody, chaos and control, heaviness and atmosphere.

“World Collapse” delves deeper into the EP’s emotional core. While “Into The Dying Light” explored acceptance, resistance, and the confrontation of one’s breaking point, “World Collapse” widens the lens, capturing the feeling of everything falling apart at once, both internally and externally.

Musically, the track blends the band’s signature elements of technical, hard‑hitting riffs, dynamic melodic passages, atmospheric tension, and a powerful vocal performance from Tom Emmans that shifts seamlessly between aggression and clarity. The result is a song that feels massive, immersive, and emotionally charged, an embodiment of the EP’s core contrasts.

Listen to “World Collapse” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GemshKJvdQQ

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/artist/1oKSKBjhTMy7IHOBZOq5QN

As Oceans Divide’s debut EP is built around contrast. Every track balances intensity with reflection, heaviness with melody, and chaos with structure. Lyrically, the EP dives into themes of internal struggle, loss, resilience, and the weight of what lies beneath the surface. The band describes the EP as “a journey rather than a collection of parts,” with each song crafted to pull listeners in, hit hard, and leave space for emotional connection.

Forged from years of friendship and a shared legacy in Canadian metal, As Oceans Divide brings together members with roots in Bloodshoteye, Aquila, Odium, Battlesoul, and more. Their sound blends early‑2000s metalcore influence with modern precision, harmonized guitars, mid‑tempo anthems, technical aggression, and emotionally driven vocals. The lineup includes Tom Emmans (Vocals), Eric Camilleri (Guitar/Songwriting), Thomas Ireland (Guitar/Production), and Matt McGuire(Drums).

The band also honours the memory of bassist Dale Burrows, whose passing in March 2026 left a profound impact on their music and their brotherhood.

Recommended for fans of Killswitch Engage, As I Lay Dying, All That Remains, Unearth, and God Forbid.

EP pre-order / pre-save (out July 9, 2026) – https://asoceansdivideband.bandcamp.com/

Previous Singles:

“Into The Dying Light” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJd_XF61K7Y

“White Noise” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GnMcAkJQvCE

Track Listing:
1. Into The Dying Light – 4:04
2. White Noise – 3:31
3. World Collapse – 3:16
4. Cursed Oblivion – 3:59
5. One Of The Herd – 3:25
EP Length: 18:15

For more info:

https://asoceansdivide.com

https://www.facebook.com/asoceansdivide

https://www.instagram.com/asoceansdivide

-30-

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0 SIEGE PERILOUS Ignite Cosmic Warfare in New Lyric Video “Eschaton” From New Story Album “Becoming The Dragon” ft. guests Fabio Lione (Rhapsody, Angra), Kristin Starkey (Twilight Force, Temperance)

June 25, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Siege Perilous

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 25, 2026

SIEGE PERILOUS Ignite Cosmic Warfare in New Lyric Video “Eschaton” From New Story Album “Becoming The Dragon”

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

Colorado fantasy metal Siege Perilous have released the official lyric video for “Eschaton”, the colossal final chapter track of their debut full‑length story album “Becoming the Dragon,” released this past March 2026 via Crunchtronic Records.

“Eschaton” stands as one of the band’s most ambitious compositions to date, a multi‑movement epic inspired by Blind Guardian’s “And Then There Was Silence,” Avantasia’s “The Scarecrow,” and Iron Maiden’s “Fear of the Dark.” The track follows the album’s protagonist as he battles the cosmic forces of destiny, shattering the universe to rebuild it free from fate. Musically, the song weaves soaring melodies, shifting tempos, thunderous riffs, and cinematic orchestration into a seamless narrative arc.

The lyric video brings this sweeping story to life, highlighting the emotional and mythic weight of the album’s finale while giving fans a deeper look into the world Siege Perilous has crafted.

Vocalist Shaughnessy McDaniel describes “Eschaton” as the culmination of everything the band set out to achieve with “Becoming the Dragon”:

“This song is an epic with a lot of pieces that flow seamlessly between each other, telling the story of the end of one cosmos and the dawn of a better one.”

As the final chapter of the album’s ten‑part saga, “Eschaton” captures the emotional and narrative climax of the Child of Prophecy’s journey, one that spans destiny, denial, tragedy, transformation, and ultimately cosmic rebirth.

Watch the video via its premiere on V13.net HERE.

A sweeping concept album years in the making, “Becoming the Dragon” is the band’s most ambitious project yet. The record features guest performances from Fabio Lione (Rhapsody, Angra) and Kristin Starkey (Twilight Force, Temperance), both of whom were major inspirations for the band long before Siege Perilous existed.

The album’s story follows a hero bound by prophecy who must confront destiny, reject it, and ultimately embrace it to overcome it. Each track represents a major story beat, crafted collaboratively by all members of the band.

“Creating a massive, sweeping power‑metal epic has been a dream since before we even formed this band. This album represents our collective experience, skill, hopes, and dreams as musicians,” says McDaniel.

Formed in 2021 after a life‑changing Unleash the Archers concert in Denver, Siege Perilous was born from the shared storytelling roots of live‑action roleplay, cooperative world‑building, and a deep love of power metal. Founders Shaughnessy McDaniel (vocals), Scott Hancock (guitar), and Mark Girard (drums) soon recruited longtime collaborator Eric Fischer (bass) and, in 2024, welcomed guitarist Ryan Flanagan, completing the lineup.

Their music blends classic heavy‑metal influences from Manowar, Iron Maiden, Hammerfall, and Sabaton with the symphonic grandeur of Blind Guardian, Rhapsody, Helloween, and Avantasia. The result is a sound that is epic, melodic, powerful, cinematic, and story‑driven.

Every Siege Perilous track is a chapter in a larger saga, drawing from myth, history, and fantasy: the Black Plague, the Rubicon, dragon‑slaying quests, and the emotional journeys of heroes shaped by destiny.

The band’s writing process is deeply collaborative. Each member contributed to the story and composition of Becoming the Dragon, shaping different narrative beats before uniting them into a cohesive whole.

“We arranged, re‑drafted, and tackled each song as a team until we had something that really clicked. By the end, every track belonged to a unified Siege Perilous sound,” adds McDaniel.

On stage, Siege Perilous delivers more than a performance; they create an immersive world. Their shows blend high‑energy musicianship with theatrical storytelling, inviting audiences into the realms they sing about.

“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: http://www.siegemetal.com/

-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

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0 Streaming Now! Denver Prog Metal ENTROPIST Debut Concept Album “The Vision” Produced by Jamie King (BTBAM, The Contortionist)

June 25, 2026
by Asher
· Entropist · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 25, 2026

Streaming Now! Denver Prog Metal ENTROPIST Debut Concept Album “The Vision”

Produced, Mixed, and Mastered by Jamie King (BTBAM, The Contortionist)

L-R – Matt Gleason – Drums, Parker Kitching – Lead Vocals, Solomon Smith – Guitars/Backup Vocals, Will Vinson – Guitars, Jeremy Smith – Bass

Photo Credit – Entropist

Denver, Colorado’s Entropist has rapidly emerged as one of progressive metal’s most compelling new voices, crafting a sound vocalist Parker Kitching calls “a love letter to metal.” Their music fuses the ambition of progressive metal, the weight of deathcore, the precision of djent, and the emotional depth of post‑hardcore into a sweeping, cinematic style defined by technical mastery and immersive storytelling.

Formed from a decade‑long bond between Solomon Smith (guitar/vocals), Parker Kitching (vocals), Jeremy Smith (bass), and Matt Gleason (drums), Entropist’s origins trace back to 2013 in Greeley, Colorado, where the members first connected as college roommates and neighbors. United by a shared obsession with prog metal and djent, the group spent their early years carpooling to Denver shows, dissecting new releases together, and eventually jamming in their living room with Matt’s drum kit set up beside the couch.

Life pulled the members in different directions after college, but the spark reignited during the COVID era when Solomon began revisiting old material and reconnecting with the band through long Discord calls, shared Guitar Pro files, and late‑night idea exchanges. The lineup solidified with the addition of guitarist Will Vinson, whose creativity and technical approach elevated the band’s sound into its fully realized form.

Their debut album, “The Vision,” is being released on June 26, 2026, and marks a bold and ambitious entrance. A dual‑layered concept record, the album intertwines a fantastical narrative of demons, celestial beings, and the void with a grounded exploration of mental struggle, nihilism, and the search for meaning. Written largely from the perspectives of the story’s characters, the album is designed as a front‑to‑back experience filled with recurring motifs, callbacks, and evolving themes.

Musically, Entropist draws from Between the Buried and Me, Meshuggah, Opeth, and The Contortionist, yet their sound remains unmistakably their own. Solomon’s intricate compositions form the backbone of the record, while the rest of the band shaped the material through relentless collaboration and experimentation. The result is a dynamic, through‑composed progressive metal odyssey that spans everything from crushing downtuned heaviness to atmospheric passages, soaring vocal harmonies, and genre‑bending rhythmic exploration.

To bring the album’s massive sound to life, Entropist enlisted renowned producer Jamie King, whose work with BTBAM and The Contortionist helped define modern progressive metal. His mixing and mastering elevated the band’s wide‑ranging ideas into a cohesive, powerful whole. The album’s visual identity comes from a hand‑painted canvas by Solomon’s wife, Shannon Bortfeldt, whose impressionist artwork captures the emotional and narrative weight of the story’s opening moments.

On stage, Entropist has already shared the bill with Nightwraith, So This Is Suffering, Eternal Bloom, The Dawn Chose Orion, WOR, and Fused by Defiance, bringing their intense, immersive sound to audiences across Colorado.

With a debut album that spans genres, tells a sweeping story, and showcases the band’s technical and emotional range, Entropist is poised to become a defining voice in modern progressive metal. Their music is ambitious, meticulously crafted, and driven by a genuine passion for the genre, and “The Vision” is only the beginning.

Listen to the album’s full stream premiere on NoCleanSinging HERE.

“The Vision” will be available on all digital platforms as of June 26, 2026.

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

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/artist/5ZHLaSydJSPqval3Cd0cjs

Lyric Video – Intense Warmth – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUZw7YAAaB0

Lyric Video – Creation – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YZ9DAdwSXto

Track Listing:
1. Intense Warmth (4:00)
2. Devour Us (6:34)
3. I Hunger (5:34)
4. The Ritual (8:36)
5. Desert of Limbo (6:04)
6. The Wandering (6:47)
7. Creation (8:49)
8. Revelation (14:12)
Album Length: 1:00:40

Album Band Line Up:
Solomon Smith – Guitar
Will Vinson – Guitar
Jeremy Smith – Bass
Matt Gleason – Drums
Parker Kitching – Vocals
Cecily Meade – Violin

Live Band Line Up:
Solomon Smith – Guitar
Will Vinson – Guitar
Jeremy Smith – Bass
Matt Gleason – Drums
Parker Kitching – Vocals

More info:

https://entropistband.com/

https://www.facebook.com/EntropistBand

https://www.instagram.com/entropistband

About: Entropist is a Denver‑based progressive metal band blending technical musicianship, emotional storytelling, and genre‑spanning heaviness. After reconnecting during the pandemic and completing their lineup with guitarist Will Vinson, the band has crafted a sound that is ambitious, immersive, and unapologetically metal. They have shared the stage with Nightwraith, So This Is Suffering, Eternal Bloom, The Dawn Chose Orion, WOR, and Fused by Defiance.

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Entropist
• All songs written by: Entropist
• Produced by: Jamie King
• Mixed by: Jamie King
• Mastered by: Jamie King
• Album Artwork by: Shannon Bortfeldt

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“Although this was a lengthy album, it was also one where you could feed off the energy of each song. Their musicianship, is second to none, and each song was carefully crafted to lead you through the journey and come out at the end alive, but definitely bruised and battered. 8/10” – Metal Temple

“What an amazing Prog Death debut this is, if you’re into bands like Rivers of Nihil, BTBAM and some of Obscura, then absolutely add this one to your lists! Rating: 9.2/10” – Drako’s Metal Reviews

“Progressive Newcomers Entropist seek The Vision through Creation” – The ProgSpace

“The Vision is clearly a very ambitious work… an extensive album that’s colorful, repeatedly arresting, and an effective representation of the fantastical narrative that unfolds through the lyricism… As a piece of music, it’s as eye‑opening as the cover art, initially mesmerizing and then exhilarating… These first two songs prove what a good idea it was to bring in Jamie King. The production displays an evenness of mix and a clarity that befits the talents of all the performers… So many things happen in each track, and each one differs in important ways from the others… Both songs are well worth all the minutes they ask of you. (on “Creation” and “Revelation”)” – No Clean Singing

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0 Canadian Prog Metal Newcomers CANDOR ZEALOT (ft. ex-members of Annihilator, The Slyde) Unveils Second Video / Single of 2026 “All For You”

June 23, 2026
by Asher
· Candor Zealot · Music News · Uncategorized

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 23, 2026

Canadian Prog Metal Newcomers CANDOR ZEALOT (ft. ex-members of Annihilator, The Slyde) Unveils Second Video / Single of 2026 “All For You”

L-R – Alberto Campuzano (Bass Guitar, Vocals) | Dino Soares (Drums) | Nate Silva (Lead Vocals, Guitar) | Chris Gagnon (Guitar, Vocals)

Photo Credit: Ryan Stacey

Progressive metal upstarts Candor Zealot continue their ambitious 2026 singles campaign with the release of their second track, “All For You”.

A sharp contrast to their politically charged debut single “Lie For Country”, the new track dives into deeply personal territory. “All For You” channels raw emotional fallout, catharsis, and the process of reclaiming one’s power after surviving emotional manipulation or abuse. Musically, it blends angst‑driven modern rock with the band’s signature progressive edge, balancing accessibility with technical bite.

“‘All For You’ is the second single for us, showcasing a more radio‑friendly side of the band, and channeling more angst‑ridden inspiration this time around. It’s for everyone who has experienced emotional or other forms of abuse in a previous relationship and is making peace with it,” says Nate Silva, Candor Zealot

Drawing influence from Linkin Park and Bring Me The Horizon, the track’s soaring chorus and heavy mid‑section nod to Gojira and Dream Theater, a fusion that positions “All For You” as one of the band’s most musically ambitious offerings.

Watch and listen to the music video for “All For You” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c390iJYn6GA

Spotify – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/candorzealot/all-for-you

Bandcamp – https://candorzealot.bandcamp.com/track/all-for-you

Rather than releasing a traditional album, Candor Zealot is unveiling six singles throughout 2026, each spotlighting a different facet of their melodic, progressive, and socially aware sound. The band aims to build momentum one track at a time, embracing modern listening habits while maintaining the depth and musicianship of classic prog and metal.

Formed in Ottawa by vocalist/guitarist Nate Silva, Candor Zealot emerged from the dissolution of his previous project, The Slyde, whose members won Wacken Metal Battle Canada 2019 and performed at Wacken Open Air. After years of pandemic delays, academic pursuits, and a brief detour into alternative rock, Silva returned to his progressive roots, reuniting with drummer Dino Soares and bassist Alberto Campuzano, formerly of Annihilator, who also performs with Toronto’s Metallica tribute act Sandman, and recruiting Ottawa multi‑band guitarist Chris Gagnon.

Candoz Zealot‘s influences span Rush, Billy Talent, Megadeth, Dream Theater, Coheed & Cambria, European metal, pop‑punk, video‑game music, J‑rock, and even K‑pop.

For more info:

https://candorzealot.com/

https://www.facebook.com/candorzealot/

https://www.instagram.com/candorzealot

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

Fun Facts – Story Angles:

1. The band name “Candor Zealot” was chosen because we wanted to convey the general intentions of our storytelling within the band name: “to be uncompromising in the pursuit of honesty and openness.”

2. Frontman Nate Silva and drummer Dino Soares have been playing music together since they were 14 years old.

3. Nate Silva, Dino Soares, and Alberto Campuzano were former members of the Toronto-based prog metal band THE SLYDE, who won the 2019 Wacken Metal Battle Canada competition and performed at Wacken Open Air in Germany.

4. Guitarist Chris Gagnon currently plays in 8 tribute bands.

5. Nate Silva wrote a thesis paper for his Master’s degree on chiptune artists who incorporate guitar playing into their music.

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“In nearly 20 years of working in Rock Radio & Covering Music, I have never heard a band burst onto the scene with such an electric debut track. Candor Zealot is one of Canada’s next great bands” – Patrick Walford – idobi Howl Curator, host of Rock The Walls (2026 – Lie For Country – single)

“Ladies and Gentlemen, allow me to introduce you to Candor Zealot. This new band has just dropped their debut single ‘Lie For Country’ and it’s a monster. Fast and furious progressive metal with deep hooks and a familiar voice with NATE SILVA on lead vocals, ‘Lie For Country’ is a hell of a beginning as the band states plans to release six singles in 2026. Well, bring ’em on fellas cause we’re all about it. Catch Candor Zealot on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll (2026 – Lie For Country – single)
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0 IRON KINGDOM Shares Behind‑the‑Scenes Mini‑Documentary for New Album “Shadows and Dust” Out Now!

June 23, 2026
by Asher
· Iron Kingdom · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 23, 2026

IRON KINGDOM Shares Behind‑the‑Scenes Mini‑Documentary for New Album “Shadows and Dust” Out Now!

Cross Canada Tour! and Armstrong Metal Fest, Loud As Hell Open Air Fest

L-R – Max Friesen (Drums), Chris Osterman (Lead Vocals / Lead Guitar), Megan Merrick (Lead Guitar), Leighton Holmes (Bass)

Photo Credit – Cailin Haley

Vancouver traditional heavy‑metal torchbearers Iron Kingdom have released a brand‑new behind‑the‑scenes mini‑documentary offering fans an inside look at the making of their sixth studio album, “Shadows and Dust,” released June 6, 2026.

The short film captures the band speaking of the recording process and pushing themselves creatively as they crafted what they describe as one of their darkest and most emotionally charged records to date. The documentary highlights the group’s jam‑oriented writing style, their collaborative approach, and the personal inspirations behind the album’s themes of death, impermanence, hardship, and resilience.

“Shadows and Dust” marks a significant evolution for Iron Kingdom. While rooted firmly in the classic heavy‑metal tradition they’ve championed since 2011, the album explores heavier emotional territory.

“The album explores a dark realm of topics, from death, hardship, and the lowest points of human emotion, balanced by music that offers hope and the will to fight on,” says bassist and lyricist Leighton Holmes.

Across its 10 new tracks and 48‑minute runtime, the album blends NWOBHM spirit, melodic storytelling, and the band’s signature twin‑guitar attack. Songs draw inspiration from history, mythology, literature, and personal reflection, ranging from the Battle of Gdansk (“Defenders”) to Malazan‑inspired fantasy (“Deadhouse Gates,” “Blood and Steel”) to philosophical meditations on time, compassion, and purpose.

The mini‑doc showcases how these ideas took shape in the rehearsal room, where riffs, lyrics, and arrangements were built collectively.

“We’re a very jam‑oriented band. We walk in with ideas, feel them out together, and let the songs grow naturally,” says vocalist/guitarist Chris Osterman.

Formed in Vancouver in 2011, Iron Kingdom has built a reputation for reviving the spirit of traditional heavy metal with unwavering authenticity. Inspired by Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Helloween, Riot, and Savatage, the band delivers high‑energy performances, intricate melodies, and a stage presence reminiscent of metal’s golden era.

The current lineup, Chris Osterman (lead vocals/lead guitar), Leighton Holmes (bass), Megan Merrick (lead guitar), and Max Friesen (drums), represents the strongest incarnation of the band to date. Their chemistry is on full display in the documentary, revealing the trust, camaraderie, and shared passion that fuel their sound.

Iron Kingdom’s journey has taken them across Canada, the U.S., Europe, and Brazil, with appearances at festivals such as Keep It True XVII and tours alongside acts like Night Demon and Blaze Bayley. Through lineup changes, near‑fatal touring accidents, and global disruptions, the band has remained committed to carrying the torch of classic heavy metal.

Watch the mini‑doc at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSiSsMpY8pg

“Shadows and Dust” can be heard in full at the following links:

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

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/album/1E5IetyIvOdAt5CKG54gLw

Official Merch store: https://www.iron-kingdom.com/shop
Bandcamp: https://iron-kingdom.bandcamp.com/music

Music Video – Deadhouse Gates – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zBE3s4WRlIw

Music Video – Defenders – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3k7tW5-9Os

Lyric Video – Blood and Steel – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qb8BIzHT3_Q

The album’s exclusive EU edition is available from Steel Shark Records (France), offering limited-edition 300 double‑CD copies. Disc 1 will contain the full “Shadows and Dust” album, while Disc 2 will feature a “Best Of” collection highlighting tracks from Iron Kingdom’s previous five releases. In addition, the label will introduce a third vinyl colour (100 copies) available only to EU fans.

To celebrate the album, Iron Kingdom is kicking off a summer of touring that includes festival appearances at Armstrong Metal Fest and Loud As Hell Open Air Festival (dates listed below).

True North Strong And Heavy Canadian Tour – Iron Kingdom, W.M.D.
https://www.iron-kingdom.com/tour-dates
July 2 – Nanaimo, BC – The Terminal
July 3 – Victoria, BC – Lucky Bar
July 4 – Cumberland, BC – The Waverley
July 5 – Powell River, BC – The Carlson Loft
July 17 – Armstrong, BC – AMF 2026
July 21 – Prince George, BC – Knox Performance Centre
July 23 – Whitehorse, YT – Lefty’s Well
July 24 – Dawson City, YT – Palace Grand Theatre
July 25 – Dawson City, YT – outside at The Pit
July 26 – Whitehorse, YT – The 98 Hotel
July 28 – Yellowknife, NT – The Underground
July 29 – Fort Smith, NT – Dirty O’ Fergie’s
July 30 – Edmonton, AB – Starlite
July 31 – Drumheller, AB – LAH 2026
Aug 1 – Winnipeg, MB – Park Theatre
Aug 2 – Thunder Bay, ON – Bloom Bar + Lounge
Aug 3 – Sudbury, ON – The Lounge 390
Aug 4 – London, ON – Supply & Demand
Aug 5 – Waterloo, ON – Maxwells
Aug 6 – Ottawa, ON – Dominion Tavern
Aug 7 – Toronto, ON – Bovine
Aug 8 – Montréal, QC – Foufounes Électriques
Aug 9 – Sherbrooke, QC – Le Murdoch
Aug 11 – Woodstock, NB – Monteith Manor
Aug 12 – Halifax, NS – Gus’ Pub
Aug 14 – Corner Brook, NL – Retro
Aug 15 – St. John’s, NL – The Rockhouse
Aug 17 – Truro, NS – Marigold Cult. Centre (Lobby)
Aug 18 – Quebec City, QC – L’Anti
Aug 19 – Hamilton, ON – Doors Pub
Aug 21 – Saskatoon, SK – Black Cat Tavern
Aug 22 – Calgary, AB – Dicken’s
Aug 23 – Kelowna, BC – Jackknife Brewing

Track Listing:
1. Defenders
2. Eternal Emperor
3. Dreamless Sea
4. Deadhouse Gates
5. Line Of Fire
6. Blood And Steel
7. Shadow Of Time
8. Dark Demands
9. Starlight
10. Sacred Fire

For more info:
https://www.iron-kingdom.com
https://www.facebook.com/ironkingdomofficial
https://www.instagram.com/iron_kingdom

About: Formed in 2011 in Vancouver, Iron Kingdom carries the flame of classic heavy metal inspired by Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Helloween, The Scorpions, and Rush. Known for their high‑energy performances, intricate twin‑guitar work, and unwavering DIY ethos, the band has toured extensively across Canada, the USA, Europe, and Brazil, sharing stages with Night Demon, Blaze Bayley, and more.

Their discography includes “Curse of the Voodoo Queen” (2011), “Gates of Eternity” (2013), “Ride for Glory” (2015), “On the Hunt” (2019), and “The Blood of Creation” (2022). “Shadows and Dust” marks the next chapter in their evolution, an album that blends old‑school metal spirit with fresh energy and emotional depth.

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“Ten tracks leading to a beautiful journey you will wish to live forever. A masterpiece to own with pleasure. Iron Kingdom has arrived on the stardom stairs, and it’s worth it 100/100.” – The Metal Mag
“the entire album is rock-solid from start to finish. If you call yourself a metal fan, this is a mandatory addition to your playlist.” – Broken Neck Radio

“Iron Kingdom has really taken their stance with hard rock and heavy metal to a standstill, packed with amazement and shining glory in all of its wonder, but making sure the two genres between the NWOBHM and thrash eras are kept in their mighty epic book of ingredients to keep you coming back for more. What can I say? Shadows and Dust is the album we’ve been waiting for this upcoming summer of 2026.” – Echoes and Dust

“After countless tours, line-up changes and even after a serious accident, IRON KINGDOM seem stronger today than ever. With ‘Shadows And Dust’ they deliver exactly the album that traditionalists have been longing for for years. Powerful, melodic, anthemic and rousing, full of great guitar moments and an honest passion for classic heavy metal. If you love IRON MAIDEN, RIOT, HELLOWEEN or SAVATAGE, you should definitely grab it here. The release in all formats as well as via “Steel Shark Records” with vinyl for collectors also fits in with this.” – Saitenkult

“Now six albums into their career, the NWOTHM Canadians show that they are very much still firing on all cylinders! The band are all insanely talented players, for one, and it translates perfectly into some awesome songwriting throughout this nearly-50-minute release. Opener ‘Defenders’ is an absolute banger perfectly reminiscent of that 80s sound. Then you have the likes of ‘Dreamless Sea’, ‘Blood and Steel’ and ‘Dark Demands’ that are also big highlight. If you’re into all things Maiden, Priest or Hammerfall, this is absolutely the release for you. It’s a sound that has remained hugely popular across the decades since its inception, and honestly these guys do it just as good as anyone. How they aren’t a massive name by now I don’t know. Hopefully this is finally the album to push them to that level, as it’s a really great release! A very easy 8/10 from us!” – Overtone Magazine

“There are no weak tracks on the album, just kick ass traditional metal from start to finish. Queue this one up if you want a mix of mid-80s Iron Maiden and Malice with a hint of Arch-era Fates Warning.” – Metal Crypt

“This is exactly how traditional heavy metal stays vital. True believers like Iron Kingdom guard the flame while adding their own chapter to the story. Shadows and Dust doesn’t omly honour the legacy of the genre, it actually strengthens it. Heavy metal remains a lifestyle as much as a sound, and this album is a worthy soundtrack for those who live it. Essential listening for anyone who still believes in real heavy metal.” – Sentinel Daily

“With Shadows and Dust, Iron Kingdom enter a new era with sharpened purpose, renewed fire, and a sound that honors the past while forging boldly ahead. It’s a story of endurance, evolution, and the unbreakable power of Heavy Metal, and I’m sure that after Shadows and Dust we’ll see those Canadians rockin’ for many years to come no matter what. Best moments of the album: Deadhouse Gates, Line of Fire and Dark Demands.” – The Headbanging Moose

“If you only have one selection to convince someone whether they should invest time/money/effort into Iron Kingdom, play them “Shadow Of Time” as it locks into the classic sound they do so well. Winner!” – Mark Gromen – Bravewords

“Iron Kingdom’s sixth full-length continues the band’s upward trajectory in a way that is both concise and still varied. Every track has just enough difference between to make them all stand out from one another, while never feeling like they belong to a different artist. 2022’s “Blood of Creation” was an absolute clinic in modern metal perfection, and it would always be a tough act to follow but Iron Kingdom did so with gusto. Masterfully produced and even better performed, “Shadows and Dust” is one of the years best.” – The NWOTHM

“If you enjoy classic heavy metal and want more of that timeless sound, then ‘Shadows and Dust’ will feel very familiar in a good way… it is honest, energetic, and enjoyable from start to finish.” – AfterNoiz

“Shadows and Dust is therefore an album recommended for all fans of classic heavy and power metal… forty-plus minutes of sincere, energetic, and expertly played music. For those who love traditional sounds and are looking for something slightly off the beaten track of contemporary mainstream metal, Iron Kingdom have created one of the most interesting works of their recent career.” – Tempiduri

“this new ten‑track album from Iron Kingdom definitely caught our attention. What we hear is very traditional heavy metal, with history and mythology serving as the thematic backbone for their lyrics. The result is ten songs that are well‑constructed and well‑arranged. You’ll find everything the subgenre demands: power, melody, and catchiness.” – Musika

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0 Climbing New Heights DOLL Drops “Snakes and Ladders” Lyric Video As The Final Chapter In Their “Animal Crackers” Trilogy

June 22, 2026
by Asher
· DOLL · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 22, 2026

Climbing New Heights DOLL Drops “Snakes and Ladders” Lyric Video As The Final Chapter In Their “Animal Crackers” Trilogy

Ottawa alternative rock band DOLL has released the new lyric video for their latest single “Snakes and Ladders,” the newest chapter in their evolving Animal Crackers trilogy. Following January’s standalone track “Bear Claw” and the fan‑favourite “Shark Bait” from their 2025 album “Better Days, Better Times,” the single continues the band’s creative resurgence, now brought to life visually with a gritty, high‑energy lyric video that amplifies the song’s message and mood.

After re‑emerging from a long hiatus with a renewed sense of purpose, DOLL, the wife‑and‑husband duo of Christina and Pete Kasper, have embraced a period of sonic exploration, pushing their sound into new territory while staying true to the raw emotion and honesty that defined their early work.

With “Snakes and Ladders,” the band lean into a D‑standard, grunge‑inspired throwback while weaving in the darker tones and textures that have shaped their recent evolution. Packed with harmonics, punchy riffs, and Christina’s unmistakable vocal rasp, the track captures DOLL’s signature blend of tension, drive, and cathartic release.

“Our fans expect the unexpected at this point. ‘Snakes and Ladders’ feels like the perfect final piece, gritty, energetic, and a real reflection of where DOLL is headed,” shares the duo.

The single channels the feral energy defining their latest era, a full‑throttle return to old‑school DOLL with raw vocals, jagged guitars, and drums that hit like a runaway car with no brakes. Carrying the emotional weight of Better Days, Better Times, the track confronts uncomfortable truths with a mix of vulnerability and defiance.

Lyrically, “Snakes and Ladders” stands as an anthem of resistance, calling out the “snakes in suits” who pretend to help but only serve themselves. It urges listeners to stay grounded, ask questions, and refuse to play someone else’s game. Musically, it’s one of the band’s most exhilarating songs to perform, built for movement, release, and shaking off whatever’s weighing you down. “As the song says, ‘I refuse to play your game.’ Always ask questions. Keep perspective. Don’t drink the Kool‑Aid blindly.”

The single’s artwork came together through a moment of pure serendipity. While wandering through a thrift store, the duo stumbled upon a vintage Snakes and Ladders board game, complete with classic packaging that felt uncannily perfect for the song’s theme.

“It was like the universe dropped it in front of us. Once we saw it, we knew this was the cover. It was meant to be,” they add.

The artwork mirrors the song’s message, life’s unpredictable climbs and falls, and the importance of staying true to yourself no matter where the board leads.

Listen to “Snakes and Ladders” at the following links:

Lyric Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fWD7Imbwjcg

Add to your Spotify Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/2jaDZUp5fZoRJDu7wXTEU7

All digital platforms – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/doll14/snakes-and-ladders

More info: https://www.facebook.com/dollband | https://www.instagram.com/dollbandmusic/

About: DOLL is a Canadian alternative rock band from Ottawa, Ontario. After releasing their debut album Inside the “Dollhouse” in 2009, with singles “Daddy’s Little Girl” and “Sally Lost Her Shoelaces” earning rotation on MuchMusic and MusiquePlus, the band followed up with 2011’s The Ragdoll Diaries, featuring the singles “FMO” and “Youth of Today, Hope for Tomorrow.”

Over the years, DOLL has shared stages with Three Days Grace, Lacuna Coil, Danko Jones, Protest the Hero, Halestorm, SNFU, Die Mannequin, and many more. After a long hiatus, the band returned in 2025 with Better Days, Better Times, reigniting their momentum and setting the stage for the Animal Crackers trilogy.

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What the press has said about DOLL:

!earshot – August 2025 – Top 20 Loud – #5 – DOLL – Canadian Campus Radio Charts (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

!earshot – August 2025 – Top 200 – #55 – DOLL – Canadian Campus Radio Charts (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“#1 Doll – Zach’s Picks of the Week – July 7 – 12, 2025 – Canadian Beats (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“In one of the best comeback stories in music in 2025, Canadian Alt-Rock duo DOLL will release their first new collection of material since 2011’s The Ragdoll Diaries… In addition to five slamming originals, DOLL chips in an inspired take on the Deep Purple classic rock anthem – “Smoke On the Water!” “- Ghost Cult Magazine (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“Doll sharpens their grit with new muscle and melody. Their return after more than a decade is not a nostalgia trip but a rebirth. The Ottawa band’s forthcoming EP Better Days, Different Times (July 18th) expands their core formula of raw energy and no-frills honesty by inviting new players and broader sonic choices into the mix. But even with cello flourishes and genre jumps, their identity remains firmly intact.” – Amplify The Noise (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“The new track ‘Shark Bait’ from Doll is a blast! The world has been celebrating the 50th anniversary of “JAWS” and now we have a brand new punk-fueled bite in the pants to go along with all of the bloody hoopla. ‘Shark Bait’ is basically straight ahead hardcore riffage with razor sharp teeth, fun lyrics and a precursor to their new EP, ‘Better Days, Different Times’ set for a July 18th release. Catch it on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“DOLL has returned as potent and as impressive as they were before but with greater impact we suggest, Better Days, Better Times quite simply a must exploration for punk and feral rock hearts.” – The Ring Master Review (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“Christina Kasper’s changeable voice is impressive.” – Keep On Rocking (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“‘Bleeding’ is a colourful mixture of Hard and Alternative Rock, paired with influences from Punk and Gothic, in a very melancholic sounding melody. The powerful voice of singer Christina Kasper dominates like a siren. ” – Metal Heads Forever Magazine (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

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0 DieveNoire Drops Defiant New Video “IDGAF” + Performing at Rockfest 2026 w/ The Offspring, Halestorm, The Pretty Reckless and more!

June 19, 2026
by Asher
· Dieve Noire · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 19, 2026

DieveNoire Drops Defiant New Video “IDGAF” – A Personal Journey From When Humanity Breaks You

Performing at Rockfest 2026 w/ The Offspring, Halestorm, The Pretty Reckless and more!

L-R – Aaron Esquitin – Drums, Lothar Keller – Lead Guitar, Lariyah Perrin – Vocals, Paul McBride – Bass, Josh Perrin – Rhythm Guitar

Photo by Darrelle Esquitin

Melodic blues‑heavy rock band DieveNoire has released its boldest visual statement yet with the new music video for “IDGAF,” a track from their debut concept album “The Story of a Gunslinger.” The band will also bring their dynamic, theatrical live show to Rock Fest in Cadott, Wisconsin, on July 18, marking their biggest festival appearance to date and sharing the stage with a lineup that includes The Offspring, Halestorm, The Pretty Reckless, Hollywood Undead, and many more! More info available at https://rock-fest.com/.

Fans attending Rock Fest can expect a performance that goes far beyond simply recreating their album. DieveNoire’s live show is theatrical, high‑energy, and emotionally charged, with Lariyah (Havron, Hessler, Khaotika) delivering vocals with more grit, harshness, and intensity than on the studio recordings. The band’s stage presence transforms each song into a full‑body experience.

Demonstrating this emotion, the track “IDGAF” erupts unfiltered, born from a night of insomnia, overwhelming stress, and a moment of stark clarity as Lariyah lay in morning grass heavy with petrichor, reflecting on life, humanity, and the weight of her own history. It channels the rawest parts of the human experience, unapologetic, unfiltered, and fiercely honest, standing in sharp contrast to the album’s western narrative and highlighting the band’s ability to shift from cinematic storytelling to deeply personal expression.

Shaped by Lariyah’s own lived intensity, the song carries the urgency of someone who has survived the unimaginable. After a tragic tour accident that claimed three lives and left her clinically dead before being revived, she approaches every day with uncompromising authenticity.

“This song is a display of a middle finger to the two‑faced, fake world. If you give me an apple, I’ll give you an orchard. Cut off my finger, and I’ll cut you off from my life. I’m Polish; I’m blunt. You’ll always know exactly what I think.”

Though separate from the album’s gunslinger storyline, the track can still be interpreted through the lens of the concept, echoing the voice of the woman observing the gunslinger’s journey, a moment of surrender as she realizes she may never be able to follow where he goes.

Watch the video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XaBKRsvsfP0

DieveNoire began as a solitary creative spark in Lariyah’s mind: simple beats, tribal textures, and haunting blues‑rock vocals. Over time, the project evolved into a full band featuring world‑touring musicians, guitarists Josh Perrin (Akhlys, Havron) and Lothar Keller (The Skull / Legions of Doom), along with drummer Aaron Esquitin, and the recent addition of Paul McBride (The Reticent) joining post-album release.

Their combined backgrounds in black metal, doom, progressive metal, and heavy rock helped transform DieveNoire into a melodic, blues‑driven heavy rock band known for its emotional depth and dynamic arrangements.

Their debut album, “The Story of a Gunslinger”, inspired by a vivid dream of the old wild west, blends storytelling, grit, and southern‑gothic atmosphere. The album was further shaped by renowned Gothenburg producer Jakob Herrmann (Draconian, Thyrfing, Art Nation), who encouraged the band to push toward heavier textures while preserving their blues‑rock soul.

Recommended for fans of Clutch, Dorothy, Everybody Loves an Outlaw, Pretty Reckless, and Halestorm, “The Story of a Gunslinger” (released September 5, 2025) is available on all digital platforms.

Add to your Spotify Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/5AaQXA6NbVieLh8YBpo4vH

Bandcamp – https://dievenoire.bandcamp.com/album/the-story-of-a-gunslinger

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

Music Video – The Graveyard Song – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1fJB5zDz3c

Show Dates:
7/16 – Chicago, IL – Live Wire Lounge
7/17 – Milwaukee, WI – Shank Hall
7/18 – Cadott, WI – Rock Fest

Track Listing:
1. Preacher – 3:36
2. To The Gallows – 3:43
3. Gunslinger in Black – 2:44
4. Streets of New Orleans – 5:04
5. The Graveyard Song – 4:04
6. Morning Star – 4:00
7. These Boots Are Made for Walkin’ – 3:48
8. Spell of White Oleander – 4:55
9. Throughout the Night – 3:28
10. IDGAF – 4:24
Album Length: 39:50

Album Band Line Up:
Lariyah Perrin – Vocals
Lothar Keller – Lead guitars
Josh Perrin – Rhythm guitars
Aaron Esquitin – Drums

Live Band Line Up:
Lariyah Perrin – Vocals
Lothar Keller – Lead Guitars
Josh Perrin – Rhythm Guitars
Aaron Esquitin – Drums
Paul McBride – Bass (joined the band fully after the album release)

More info:

http://dievenoire.com/

https://www.facebook.com/dievenoire

https://www.instagram.com/dievenoire

About: DieveNoire is a melodic blues‑heavy rock band blending storytelling, emotional depth, and dynamic musicianship. Formed by vocalist and songwriter Lariyah Perrin, the band evolved from a solo concept into a collaborative force featuring members of Akhlys, The Skull/Legions of Doom, The Reticent, and Havron. Their debut album, The Story of a Gunslinger, delivers a cinematic narrative rooted in dream‑born mythology, southern‑gothic atmosphere, and raw human emotion.

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“The nostalgic whistles, the storytelling approach of singer Lariyah Perrin, and the overall atmosphere of the song take the listener on a hypnotic journey. The song is the band’s third track before they drop their new album, which already seems like it will be a feast for the ears. Pushing the repeat button is the only way when the highly engaging, beautiful song ends.” – New Noise Magazine

“It may be true that Lariyah’s personal and dramatic story pushed her to see life from a somewhat different perspective. Her dark words, at times, attest to this. Through the darkness of West American history, is this some kind of introspection on her part? I will conclude by writing that this album is the result of a fusion of dark blues rock and Southern-gothic rock, carried by an expressive voice, powerful guitars, and a universe where the Wild West meets shadow and rebellion. For this album, 9/10 is essential.” – Rock Meeting

If DieveNoire should be recognised as anything, it should be as an unreckonable cultural force, wielding music as a conduit for their ethos, one that scratches beneath the superficial and strikes at the cerebral. Their latest seminal single, IDGAF, delivers an intimately candid rum-soaked vignette of a soul clawing for freedom through the rebellion of living authentically, sacrilegiously in the eyes of many, yet chasing redemption through defiant selfhood.” – A&R Factory (anrfactory.com)

“Hailing from Elgin, IL DieveNoire is a Dark Blues Rock Band that started from the vision and creation of Lariyah Perrin. Originally, this new endeavor was intended as a solo project. However, after the overwhelmingly positive reception of her debut single, “Gunslinger in Black,” Lariyah decided to form a full five-member, stage-ready band. Since a young age, Lariyah was exposed to none other than Johnny Cash, a key influence. Combining her Slavic roots, which are evident in her vocal style and songwriting with a newfound passion for blues and southern gothic rock, Lariyah began work on the band’s debut album, “The Story of a Gunslinger.”” WGN Channel 9 (Chicago)

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jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
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