Category: Music News

0 Reminder – Deadline October 15th – ARMSTRONG METALFEST Opens Band Submissions For 2026 Lineup – The Okanagan’s Ultimate Mountain Mosh Pit Returns

October 13, 2025
by Asher
· Armstrong Metal Fest · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 13, 2025

Reminder – Deadline October 15th

ARMSTRONG METALFEST Opens Band Submissions For 2026 Lineup – The Okanagan’s Ultimate Mountain Mosh Pit Returns

“It’s one of the premier festivals of its kind in Canada, showcasing the biggest names in local, national, and international heavy metal music.” – Vancouver Sun

Following a landmark celebration of 15 years of extreme metal in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, marked by record-breaking attendance and its most triumphant edition yet, ARMSTRONG METALFEST is officially set to return in 2026 on July 17th and 18th at the Hassen Arena, for two days of moshing, headbanging, and camping.

Armstrong MetalFest’s 15th year of mountain moshing roared to life with a powerhouse 2025 lineup featuring BORN OF OSIRIS, HAVOK, GLYPH, RIOT CITY, THE BROWNING, VIRVUM, and many more heavy hitters from across Canada and beyond. On July 11th and 12th, the town of Armstrong, BC, was transformed into a metal haven, complete with Yeti Games, the Metal Madness Market, and the chaos of Thrash Wrestling.

Check out the Armstrong MetalFest 2025 Spotify playlist – https://spoti.fi/4i4u2OV

Armstrong MetalFest has also released a promotional video that traces its journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Canada’s premier metal festivals in British Columbia. Watch the full recap here: https://youtu.be/47QjFrOHLv8

Band submissions for the 2026 edition of Armstrong MetalFest will end on October 15th, inviting artists to become part of the next chapter in the festival’s legendary legacy.

Interested bands can apply through the official portal: https://armstrongmetalfest.ca/band-submissions/

“To close the night and the weekend, Born of Osiris delivered a high-octane headline set that tore the roof off. It was the perfect finale to an unforgettable weekend. When the last note rang out, it hit us — AMF 2025 was coming to a close. There’s always that bittersweet feeling as you start packing up. But that’s the beauty of this festival: it stays with you long after the amps cool down. Every year, Armstrong Metalfest brings together a community that truly loves heavy music. It’s not just about bands and beer — it’s about belonging. The friends you make, the moments you live, the memories that stick — they’re why we keep coming back. If you’ve never been to AMF, consider this your sign. It’s more than a music festival—it’s a metal rite of passage. Once you go, it gets into your blood. We’re already counting the days until the next one.” – Stan Schinners of Broken Neck Radio / Absolute Underground Magazine (Live Review AMF 2025)

Tickets for AMF 2026 will be announced at a later date, granting general admission and access to the festival grounds, camping area, and arena from 9:00 AM on Friday, July 17, 2026, until 10:00 AM on Sunday, July 18, 2026. Free camping is included.

Please Note: Camping – RV / Non-Hookup RV / Vehicle Passes: Make sure to reserve your vehicle spot to get the best location on the grounds. A fee is required for a weekend pass per vehicle in addition to your day or weekend pass. RV hookups include water and power. If you choose to park your vehicle outside the camping area in the main parking lot, then a vehicle pass is not required.

About:

Since its inception in 2009 (with a brief hiatus in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic), West Metal Entertainment and Armstrong MetalFest have championed hundreds of local bands while welcoming renowned international acts to the quiet town of Armstrong, British Columbia.

Every year, metalheads from across Canada and the U.S. converge on the scenic Okanagan Valley for three days of camping and two days packed with heavy metal mayhem. Under the blazing summer sun, fans revel in live performances, wrestling spectacles, scavenger hunts, and reconnecting with their extended metal family.

Armstrong MetalFest has hosted legendary headliners like Kataklysm, Cattle Decapitation, Archspire, Nekrogoblikon, Origin, Rivers of Nihil, Warbringer, Fallujah, Striker, and Beyond Creation, alongside rising stars from across North America. And when the final riff fades, the festival vanishes without a trace, leaving the landscape as untouched as it was before.

West Metal Entertainment, a non-profit society, not only produces Armstrong MetalFest annually but also supports the regional music scene by organizing performances at various venues, including all-ages shows, to inspire musical passion in both youth and adults.

For more info:
http://www.armstrongmetalfest.ca/

https://www.facebook.com/armstrongmetalfest/

https://www.instagram.com/armstrongmetalfest/

https://x.com/amfcanada

Partners:
WCMFA
AlumaPro Welding & Fabrication Ltd
Vox and Hops
Rancho Vignola
Creative BC
Province of BC
Shepherds Hardware
Askews Foods
ACE Containers
Asher Media Relations
Staggs Head
Sunbelt Rentals
Bravewords
V13
Metal-Rules
Absolute Underground Mag
Broken Neck Radio
Ghost Cult Magazine
This Day In Metal
Valstar Electric
Voets

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.

Global Okanagan – Armstrong Metalfest brings aggressive music to the North Okanagan – Video 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

“From farm to stadium: Armstrong Metal Fest’s humble beginnings” – Info News

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0 Toronto’s DAWN VALLY Unleash Jailhouse Rage with New Single “Graves” Off Forthcoming EP Out In 2026

October 10, 2025
by Asher
· Dawn Vally · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 10, 2025

Toronto’s DAWN VALLY Unleash Jailhouse Rage with New Single “Graves” Off Forthcoming EP Out In 2026

L-R: Joe Bartolo (Drums), Antonio Bratta (Guitar), Zac Emmons (Vocals), Jeff Bartolo (Bass)

Photo Credit: Josh Vicente

Canadian deathcore outfit Dawn Vally has dropped their latest single, “Graves,” a punishing, raw track that marks a new chapter in the band’s evolution. Formed in 2007 by twin brothers Jeff (bass) and Joe Bartolo (drums), Dawn Vally has built a reputation for delivering aggressive, high-intensity music that blends metalcore and deathcore with fearless originality.

“Graves” is the second single from the band’s upcoming EP, slated for release in early 2026. It’s also the first recording to feature new vocalist Zac Emmons, formerly the guitarist of hardcore band Pound Of Flesh. Zac joined the band earlier this year, bringing a visceral lyrical style rooted in personal experience.

“Graves lyrically is a song about betrayal and the emotions that come with it. I went into a dark place in my mind to get the words,” says Zac.

Musically, “Graves” builds on the foundation laid by their previous album, “Blueprints of the 416,” but pushes the intensity even further. With punishing breakdowns and relentless energy, the track is already being hailed as Dawn Vally’s heaviest release to date.

The single’s artwork, created by Paul Padgett of Eightfold Visuals, features a horror-tinged jailhouse setting that perfectly complements the song’s themes of emotional confinement and rage.

Dawn Vally’s sound is a collaborative effort, shaped by the eclectic influences of its members. While metalcore and deathcore dominate, the band draws from jazz, classic rock, and hardcore to create a sonic landscape that’s both brutal and nuanced. Guitarist Antonio Bratta, a classically trained musician with a jazz background, adds a unique layer to the band’s dynamic compositions.

With plans to expand their reach across Canada in 2026, Dawn Vally is preparing for tours both out west and east. Their live shows promise the same raw energy and sonic devastation that fans have come to expect.

For fans of Whitechapel, Parkway Drive, BMTH, and Hatebreed, Dawn Vally is a band that doesn’t just play metal; they live it.

“Graves” is now streaming on all major platforms, along with its music video filmed and created by Brett and Hayley Wright, who have worked with other artists such as LÜZR, Seagrave, and CRUELINTENT.

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://ampl.ink/ezq3P

Music Video – https://youtu.be/xRxnMQq8xgU

More info: https://linktr.ee/Dawn_Vally

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0 This Halloween, Avant-Garde Prog Doom LIMINAL SPIRIT Will Unleash An EP Séance “Unwell”; Streaming Title Track

October 10, 2025
by Asher
· Liminal Spirit · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 10, 2025

This Halloween, Avant-Garde Prog Doom LIMINAL SPIRIT Will Unleash An EP Séance “Unwell”; Streaming Title Track

This Halloween, Milwaukee’s solo project Liminal Spirit unveils its most intense and cinematic offering to date: “Unwell,” a five-track EP that plunges deep into themes of memory, guilt, and spiritual reckoning. Helmed by multi-instrumentalist Jerry Hauppa (also known for his work with Deorbit), the release fuses progressive doom metal with avant-garde narrative techniques, crafting what Hauppa describes as “seance music”, a genre-defying sonic ritual meant to stir movement between spiritual realms. Adding to its eerie and otherworldly atmosphere, three of the tracks were composed using microtonal guitars, lending the EP a distinct sense of unease and spectral depth.

“Unwell” follows the story of Phillip, an elderly dementia patient confined to a nursing home, haunted by the spirits of two children who claim he murdered them decades ago. As Phillip’s mind unravels, the music mirrors his psychological collapse, shifting from jazz-inspired calm to microtonal chaos and oppressive distortion. The EP culminates in Phillip’s death and spiritual judgment, casting him into hell in a chilling epilogue.

The lead single and title track captures Phillip’s inner turmoil and identity crisis. Composed on microtonal guitars, the song’s alien tonalities and increasing distortion reflect his fractured mental state. “Unwell” is a sonic embodiment of isolation and existential dread, setting the tone for the EP’s descent into darkness.

“My goal with this record is to explore ideas that represent some of my greatest fears. Having worked in nursing homes, I’ve seen firsthand how miserable they can be. The thought of losing my faculties and facing spiritual judgment terrifies me—and that’s what I wanted to capture,” says Hauppa.

Listen to the title track at the following link:

YouTube – https://youtu.be/IeiBBqAmu9o

For fans of Skepticism, Jesu, Confessor, Cynic, and Anata, “Unwell” will be available on all major streaming platforms on October 31st, 2025.

EP pre-save – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/liminalspirit2/unwell

EP pre-order – https://liminalspirit.bandcamp.com/

Track Listing:
1. Admittance (5:27)
2. Unwell (6:52) (single)
3. Visiting Day (8:01)
4. EOLC (8:26)
5. A Better Place (5:42) (single)

EP Credits:
All songs written, performed, produced, and mixed by Jerry Hauppa.
Mastered by Jeff Wojtysiak at Spiral Sound Mastering

Lineup:
Jerry Hauppa – Guitar, microtonal guitar, bass, violin, synth, vocoder, drum programming

More Info:
https://www.facebook.com/people/Liminal-Spirit/61575618106702/
https://www.instagram.com/liminal_spirit_mke

Liminal Spirit is the solo endeavor of Jerry Hauppa, known for his work in Deorbit and the Milwaukee metal scene. The project fuses doom metal with cinematic storytelling, drawing influence from Skepticism, Anata, My Bloody Valentine, Jesu, and Confessor—though Hauppa insists Liminal Spirit sounds like none of them. With roots in old-school death metal and a growing interest in psychedelic electronic music, Liminal Spirit continues to push sonic boundaries.

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0 Rockshots Records – Norway’s ALIEN ORCHESTRA Unveil New Single “The Last Horizons” – First Glimpse Into Upcoming EP “Under My Pale Skin”

October 10, 2025
by Asher
· Alien Orchestra (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 10, 2025

Rockshots Records – Norway’s ALIEN ORCHESTRA Unveil New Single “The Last Horizons”

First Glimpse Into Upcoming EP “Under My Pale Skin”

After years of silence, Alien Orchestra, the Oslo-based studio band led by Jan “EpicAlien” Mojdis, returns with a new sense of purpose and creative rebirth. The single “The Last Horizons”, taken from the upcoming EP “Under My Pale Skin” due out in December 2025 (release date TBA), marks a powerful comeback for a project that merges heavy metal intensity with cinematic orchestration, crafting an evocative and deeply emotional soundscape.

“The Last Horizons” features Mats Haugen (Circus Maximus) on lead guitar and Simen Sandnes (Evergrey, Temic, Shining) on drums, adding remarkable depth and musicianship to the song’s dramatic composition. The track blends soaring melodies, layered orchestrations, and heavy metal drive, embodying Alien Orchestra’s trademark fusion of epic atmospheres, melodic metal, and ambient textures.

Founded in 2014, Alien Orchestra has always existed at the intersection between metal and film music, exploring themes of the deep universe, extraterrestrial life, and the mysticism of Nordic nature. The upcoming EP “Under My Pale Skin” was written in the aftermath of Jan’s victorious battle against cancer — a struggle that profoundly shaped his outlook and songwriting.

While he composed the main riff for the EP on piano back in 2022, his true creative return took place in 2024 when he was finally able to play guitar again and give life to a new chapter of Alien Orchestra’s story. The record stands as both a reflection on survival and renewal and a tribute to those who fought and fell — especially children.

Mixed and mastered by Drop RMX at Downtone Studio and EpicAlien, “Under My Pale Skin” delivers four tracks that range from sorrowful cinematic passages to powerful metal energy — a sonic journey that captures the fragility and strength of the human spirit.

With “The Last Horizons” and its official video, Alien Orchestra invites listeners to step into a world where sound meets emotion and metal meets infinity.

LISTEN to “The Last Horizon” – https://lnk.to/eYeBFj

Watch the video – https://youtu.be/axo2XZjI8gA

TRACKLIST:
1. Inside The Worn Shell
2. The Last Horizons (Radio Edit)
3. Svært Mysterium
4. The Last Horizons

Credits:
Songwriting:
All songs written by EpicAlien
Simen Sandnes – drum parts on “Inside The Worn Shell” and “The Last Horizons”
Mats Haugen – lead guitar writing, and performance on both versions of “The Last Horizons”
Production:
Mixed and mastered by Drop RMX at Downtone Studio and EpicAlien
Line-up:
EpicAlien – guitars, bass, alienscapes, orchestration

More info: https://www.rockshots.eu | https://www.facebook.com/alienorchestraofficial | https://www.instagram.com/alienorchestraofficial

ABOUT:

ALIEN ORCHESTRA is an Oslo-based cinematic metal project founded in 2014 by Jan Batista Mojdis, known artistically as EpicAlien. Initially conceived as an experimental studio act, the project quickly evolved into a unique blend of heavy metal, cinematic orchestration, ambient, and trailer music, merging the intensity of metal with the grandeur and emotion of film scores.

Alien Orchestra’s music often draws inspiration from science fiction, cosmic exploration, underwater worlds, and the vast Nordic landscapes, transforming these themes into soundscapes that feel both otherworldly and deeply human.

The project’s early releases, including the debut EP Fall of Mars and the single Dark Nordic Dramæ, established its distinctive atmosphere and storytelling approach. In 2021, EpicAlien returned to writing after a long battle with leukemia and a bone marrow transplant, channeling his experience of struggle and rebirth into a new creative cycle.

The result is the new mini album Under My Pale Skin — a deeply personal work that narrates a journey through pain, healing, and hope. Featuring renowned guests such as Mats Haugen (Circus Maximus) on guitars and Simen Sandnes (Evergrey, Shining, Temic) on drums, the EP marks a turning point where Alien Orchestra solidifies its identity as a metal-driven yet cinematic act.

As EpicAlien himself describes it, Alien Orchestra represents “the meeting point between the human spirit and the cosmic unknown — where heavy metal riffs collide with orchestral emotion and alien soundscapes.”

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0 Quebec’s BORN DIVIDED Unleashes New Video For Title Track “Chronicle of a Shipwreck” From Upcoming Album (Mixed and Mastered by Chris Donaldson (Cryptopsy)

October 10, 2025
by Asher
· Born Divided · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 10, 2025

Quebec’s BORN DIVIDED Unleashes New Video For Title Track “Chronicle of a Shipwreck” From Upcoming Album

(Mixed and Mastered by Chris Donaldson (Cryptopsy)

L-R – Michael Beaudoin – Guitar, Fred Bedard – Guitar, Maxim Levesque – Vocals, Lucas Biron – Drums, Tommy Demers – Bass

Photo Credit – Paul Giacomo

Quebec City progressive melodic death Born Divided returns with a thunderous new visual offering: the official music video for “Chronicle of a Shipwreck,” the title track from their sophomore album set for release on October 24th. Mixed and mastered by Chris Donaldson of Cryptopsy, the track plunges listeners into a dark, emotionally charged soundscape that showcases the band’s evolution and raw intensity.

Formed in 2020 by former members of Blinded by Faith, Tommy Demers (bass), Michaël Beaudoin (guitar), and Fred Bédard (guitar), Born Divided quickly cemented their place in the Québec metal scene. Joined by Lucas Biron (drums) and Maxim Levesque (vocals), the band debuted with 2022’s “Impending Doom,” a seven-track barrage of precision and power. Now, with “Chronicle of a Shipwreck,” they push deeper into their signature blend of epic orchestration, aggressive riffing, and progressive structure.

The new video captures the emotional devastation and triumph woven into the song’s DNA. With haunting Black Metal undertones and one of the album’s most soaring choruses, “Chronicle of a Shipwreck” is a visceral journey through chaos and catharsis. Vocalist Maxim Levesque delivers a standout performance, channeling both fury and fragility, while the band erupts into a storm of chaotic riffs and blast beats before returning to a triumphant reprise.

“This track represents everything we’ve built toward. It’s heavy, cinematic, and brutally honest, just like the album itself,” says bassist and founding member Tommy Demers.

The album features seven meticulously crafted songs selected from twelve original compositions, each offering a unique listening experience. From the emotionally rich opener “Everything Comes to an End” to the abyssal finale “Anxiety,” “Chronicle of a Shipwreck” is a sonic voyage through melody, aggression, and introspection. Lyrically penned by longtime collaborator Danny Emond, the record explores themes of collapse, resilience, and transformation.

Born Divided’s sound has drawn comparisons to Ne Obliviscaris, Scar Symmetry, Persefone, Dimmu Borgir, and Symphony X, fusing death, black, and heavy metal influences into a cohesive and compelling force. Their live performances match the intensity of their recordings, delivering precision, energy, and connection with every show.

The music video for “Chronicle of a Shipwreck” can be viewed at https://youtu.be/0LtUFyeaC-M

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/5VcfDE6DOkWaYau0xwZQsT

Album pre-order (out Oct 24th) – https://borndividedofficial.bandcamp.com/

Music Video – “Everything Comes to an End” – https://youtu.be/IVkHsg6vkk0

Track Listing:
1. Everything Comes to an End – 5:09
2. Chronicle of a Shipwreck – 4:10
3. Illusion Factories – 7:38
4. The Dead Inside Ourselves – 5:54
5. Run, Burn, Die! – 7:52
6. Subterranean Corridors – 4:48
7. Anxiety – 7:57
Album Length: 43:31

Born Divided is:
Tommy Demers – Bass
Maxim Levesque – Vocals
Michael Beaudoin – Guitars
Fred Bedard – Guitars
Lucas Biron – Drums

For more info: https://linktr.ee/borndivided

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“It doesn’t matter whether BORN DIVIDED plays fast and furious, slow and deliberate or is hovering somewhere in between, everything on “Chronicle Of A Shipwreck” is as it should be. 9/10” – Metal-Temple

“If it wasn’t obvious, Born Divided’s Chronicles of a Shipwreck was a very good experience for me. This one netted me about 8–10 listens (I stopped counting around 6) and I never felt like there was a song that didn’t fit. Nothing was skipped, and I remain entirely impressed this one was self-released. So, here’s one for us Canadians!” – Dire Notes

“Born Divided is in every way my surprise for 2022. I’m really looking forward to seeing them in concert. This is a new group that I think is likely to break through if the right people hear them. Born Divided – Impending Doom = 9.8/10” – Ondes Chocs (Impending Doom 2022)

“Alternating between clear vocals and « growl», melodies and aggressiveness, it’s a promising album!” – Metal Universe (Impending Doom 2022)

“This was the group I was looking forward to. I had the opportunity to see the musicians of the group with their other projects (except the singer), but never all together. We’re talking about groups like Blinded by Faith, Moonlight, Kalter and GFK. I want to say that I was not disappointed… Born Divided is a new group that, in my opinion, deserves to be on big shows or even tours. They have their own sound. A group to watch!!” – Ondes Chocs (Live Review -Le Corsaire, Lévis – May 20, 2023)

“A solid opening performance for this promising group with experienced musicians and compositions that adapt wonderfully well to live performances. If you still haven’t listened Impending Doom, I highly recommend this first album.” – Metal Universe (Live Review – Quebec City – Source de la Martinière – June 15, 2024

“Born Divided delivers the listener’s ears with a musical spectrum consisting of melodic sections of melodic death metal combined with a high level of complex/technical proficiency, intricacy, and dynamics from progressive music. They also blend orchestration arrangements within their musical spectrum. Impending Doom doesn’t just deliver a fruit of art death metal to the listener’s ears -but the lyrical concept (without looking into it – it’s there in front of the listener) that has a solid/meaningful lyrical meaning.” – Aathenaeumofsinreviews (Impending Doom 2022)

“While it is a fact that tight, hard and intense extreme metal parts dominate this production, this is also a band that appears to know their way around progressive metal landscapes. Just about all the compositions here will twist and turn multiple times, alternating the extreme metal onslaught with delicate and atmospheric interludes, instances of classic era progressive metal and also passages exploring a more distinct and melodic variety of atmospheric metal. Orchestral style backing is applied for both the extreme and some of the less intense parts, and quirky, technical details is a recurring feature too. The vocals alternate between harsh, distorted vocals and clean, clear and melodic singing, with the former mainly being restricted to the extreme metal parts and the latter mainly restricted to the passages that doesn’t venture into the most extreme passages here. Progressive death metal is apparently a thing, and those who tend to enjoy music defined in that manner can safely add this album to their list of music to get more familiar with.” – Progressor (Impending Doom 2022)

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0 Instrumental Prog Masters PHAETON Unveil Crushing Band Playthrough “Arachnid” from Upcoming Album “Neurogenesis”

October 9, 2025
by Asher
· Music News · Phaeton

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 9, 2025

Album Download HERE (for media use only)

Instrumental Prog Masters PHAETON Unveil Crushing Band Playthrough “Arachnid”

New Album “Neurogenesis” Out Oct 2025 via INB Music

ft. Album Guest Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater, Planet X, Sons of Apollo)

Front (L-R): Kevin Thiessen (Guitars, Keyboards), Ferdy Belland (Bass), Daniel Airth (Guitars), Back: Colin Righton (Drums)

Photo Credit – Scott Courtemanche

Canadian instrumental prog-metal quartet Phaeton has dropped their latest sonic beast, “Arachnid,” the next single from their forthcoming third album, “Neurogenesis,” out on October 24th. With a riff that bites and grooves like its namesake, “Arachnid” weaves a dazzling web of melody, menace, and metallic precision, solidifying Phaeton’s place in the modern vanguard of instrumental rock.

Formed by drummer Colin Righton, who had a hunch that combining the talents of Daniel Airth (guitar), Kevin Thiessen (guitar, keys), and Ferdy Belland (bass) would spark something extraordinary, Phaeton has evolved into a genre-defying force. Their sound? Interplanetary Psychedelic Hyper-Melodic Metallic Prog. Their mission? To thrill the senses and expand the mind.

“Arachnid” is a standout track on “Neurogenesis,” crawling through crushing riffs and elegiac passages that evoke the delicate artistry of a spider’s web. It’s a metaphor for the band’s intricate songwriting, which balances brute force with melodic finesse.

“Even if spiders freak people out. They’re essential, and so is this riff. Without it, the song would fall apart,” adds the band

“Neurogenesis” marks a new chapter for Phaeton. While their debut laid the foundation and “Between Two Worlds” expanded their sonic universe, this third album sharpens the edges and tightens the structures, without sacrificing imagination. Inspired by themes of technological singularity and the fusion of biology with machine, the album offers a cold warning wrapped in warm, electrifying grooves.

As an all-instrumental outfit, Phaeton lets the guitars and keyboards do the talking. Their live shows are heavier, crunchier, and thrashier than their crystal-clear recordings suggest, often catching audiences off guard in the best way possible. With influences ranging from Devin Townsend and Rush to Meshuggah, Mastodon, and Gojira, Phaeton’s sound is a kaleidoscope of prog, tech-death, thrash, and djent.

The band’s playthrough for “Arachnid” is now streaming at https://youtu.be/QxyU0U-vSOc

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/artist/5F6RHipUtHpTXxrlABsHth

“Neurogenesis” will be available on October 24th, 2025, with more music, including the standalone 22-minute epic “Clouds of Mercury,” coming in 2026, and a fourth full-length album, “Quartum,” slated for 2027.

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

Previous Singles:

Isochron ft. Derek Sherinian – https://youtu.be/Ri8wXGYJcJg

Tethys Rising – https://youtu.be/mjehuUQS9G8

Track Listing:
1. Tethys Rising (6:25)
2. Discontinuum (6:37)
3. Isochron (4:12) ft. Derek Sherinian
4. Synethesia (6:24)
5. Arachnid (4:48)
6. Augmented (4:37)
7. Neurogenesis (6:16)
Album Length: 39:19

Band Lineup:
– Colin Righton: Drums & Percussion
– Daniel Airth: Lead & Rhythm Guitars
– Kevin Thiessen: Lead & Rhythm Guitars, Keyboards
– Ferdy Belland: Electric Bass

For more info: https://linktr.ee/phaetonofficial

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“Oh prog-metal how we love thee…case in point, the new single ‘Isochron ft. Derek Sherinian’ from Phaeton. This dandy little slice of modern prog-metal is not only exceptionally recorded but is jammed full of stabbing riffs, fluid bass lines, drum rolls galore and of course keyboard wizardry courtesy of the legendary Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater, Planet X, Sons of Apollo). Keep an eye out for the new album “Neurogenesis” from PHAETON set to drop on Oct. 24th and to tide you over listen up for ‘Isochron’ on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll

“I’ve always maintained that instrumental bands have to work harder at their craft, because the lack of vocals is one more thing they have to find a replacement for. Lead guitar breaks can take the place of vocals, as can keyboards. They do a solid job of this on the album… They have the chops, that’s for sure.” – Metal-Temple

“A”An instrumental quartet from Kimberley, British Columbia, Phaeton are skillfully blurring the boundaries between old- and new-school prog metal. Their second album, Between Two Worlds, covers a vast amount of ground, from intricate post-djent riffing, to indulgent prog pomp, and no single outstays its welcome. The nine-minute title track is a particularly impressive display of showboating and smart songwriting.” – Prog Mag – Dom Lawson (Between Two Worlds – 2023)

It’s Prog Mag’s brand new Tracks Of The Week! (April 21, 2023) – “Hailing from Columbia, Canada’s Phaeton are an interplanetary instrumental heavy prog metal quartet and as their name suggests, they are fascinated with astronomy, and the idea of life itself, in all its beauty and wonder and majesty, emerging from an instant of catastrophic cosmic violence. The epic Between Two Worlds is the title track of the band’s latest album.” (Between Two Worlds – 2023)

“Top-tier instrumental prog-metal-math music from the East Kootenay region performed by a quartet of veteran musicians.” – Stuart Derdeyn (The Vancouver Sun) (Between Two Worlds – 2023)

“Phaeton are relatively unknown, especially compared to the above mentioned bands (scale The Summit, Animals as Leaders), but they definitely hold their own on Between Two Worlds. All members absolutely kill it on their instruments, the songs are wonderfully arranged and produced, and there’s plenty of variety here to hold our attention. Instrumental prog might be a little talked about genre, but Phaeton belong in the conversation.” – Heavy Music Headquarters (Between Two Worlds – 2023)

“…a killer album indeed, wonderfully arranged and produced; a superb prog metal opus where the music almost makes you dizzy, but most of all longing for more indeed. “Between Two Worlds” to me is one of the absolute highlights of this year, a unique twist and rollercoaster of progressive, instrumental metal, highly recommended indeed: especially suitable for fans of Rush, Dream Theater and Liquid Tension Experiment. Play it LOUD and you will be hooked, listening tip: “Monsoon.”” – Rock United (Between Two Worlds – 2023)

“”Between Two World” was very competently arranged and recorded by PHAETON. Prog fans, who like sounds and virtuosity above all, will be well served with the disc.” – PowerMetal.de (Between Two Worlds – 2023)

“PHAETON releases an instrumental album in which the voice is not lacking; a nervous, boosted opus where the frank and limpid musicality makes you dizzy, where the notes invite you to travel in space to another dimension, where harmony is combined with controlled djent power; innovative music, on modern math metal-prog.” – Profil Prog (Between Two Worlds – 2023)

“If you’re open minded in your choice of Metal genres, you should feel free to let this instrumental work slip through your ears. It takes a little getting used to, so completely without singing. But if you get involved and listen carefully, one or the other will surely like something. The whole thing should appeal to fans of RUSH or DREAM THEATER.” – Hellfire Magazin (Between Two Worlds – 2023)

“The sound on all seven tracks is huge and if there was a “best sounding hammer-ons” award then March of the Synthetics could be a contender.” – Stuart Derdeyn (The Vancouver Sun) (Self-titled – 2018)

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0 Bun to Be Wild DEVOLVER Shreds in a Hot Dog Suit of Fury in New Playthrough “Merciless Storm” Off New Album “Non Compos Mentis”

October 9, 2025
by Asher
· Devolver · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 9, 2025

Bun to Be Wild DEVOLVER Shreds in a Hot Dog Suit of Fury in New Playthrough “Merciless Storm”

New Album “Non Compos Mentis” Out Now!

Produced by Mark Lewis (Whitechapel, Trivium, DevilDriver, Black Dahlia Murder)

L-R: Jayde Penner (guitar), Bevin Booth (drums), Jaylen Elias (bass), Devin Babcock (guitar), Chris Brown (vocals)

Photo Credit – Heidi Robertson

Canadian metal outfit Devolver has dropped a new playthrough video for “Merciless Storm,” a standout track from their latest album “Non Compos Mentis,” released August 22nd. The video showcases the band’s precision, intensity, and collaborative firepower, offering fans a raw look at the musicianship behind one of the album’s most punishing cuts, along with a comedic side to them.

The band explains further:

“Merciless Storm” began as a tongue-in-cheek experiment in heaviness, but quickly transformed into a full-fledged monster. With slam riffs, groovy solos, and a breakdown written on the spot in the studio, the track embodies the album’s ethos: unrelenting force and the emotional wreckage left in the wake of disaster. Jayde and Jaylen mustered up the courage to hot dog suit their way through the playthrough, delivering a performance that’s both relentless and razor-sharp. True to Devolver’s spirit, the band doesn’t take themselves too seriously and just aims to have fun with their videos. Devin’s solo, featuring a wild “horsey squeal,” cements the song as one of the band’s most technically daring.”

Watch the “Merciless Storm” playthrough video now and experience the storm for yourself via its premiere on TheCirclePit YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/RleEVAAsdl4

Formed in 2015 by guitarist Devin Babcock as a creative outlet for material outside his main project, Devolver has evolved into a five-piece force of nature. Their sound, described as “Gothenburg melodic death and 2000s metalcore,” has matured into a focused, aggressive, and massive sonic identity, thanks in part to the razor-sharp production of acclaimed producer Mark Lewis (Whitechapel, Trivium, DevilDriver, Black Dahlia Murder).

Non Compos Mentis marks a major evolution for Devolver. Unlike their debut, which was written solely by Babcock, this album is the product of full-band collaboration. The result is a cohesive, emotionally resonant record that blends melody and brutality with surgical precision. From the haunting true-crime-inspired title track to the high-octane energy of “Merciless Storm,” the album is designed to be experienced front to back without pause.

The band also teamed up with legendary artist Travis Smith (Opeth, Avenged Sevenfold, Soilwork) for the album artwork, which depicts the chilling story of the 1805 murder of Amos Babcock’s sister in a religious frenzy, an ancestor of Devin Babcock. The art depicts Amos bloodied in the snow, surrounded by the ghostly eyes of his nine children.

Recommended for fans of In Flames, Dark Tranquillity, Killswitch Engage, and As I Lay Dying, “Non Compos Mentis” is a bold leap forward, each track a chapter in a larger emotional and sonic narrative.

“Non Compos Mentis” is available at the following links:

Album order (released Aug 22nd) – https://devolvermusic.bandcamp.com/

Spotify for Playlist Add – https://open.spotify.com/album/3eeLxBrxx55QvIm3EnahLm

Music Video – Merciless Storm – https://youtu.be/o_6jcqK2qFQ

Lyric Video – Suffocating Syndrome – https://youtu.be/mmRskxYe1q4

Track Listing:
1. Deathtouch – 3:55
2. New Blood – 3:14
3. Jewels of the Maw – 3:30
4. Wraiths – 3:20
5. At Any Cost – 3:40
6. Non Compos Mentis – 3:53
7. Merciless Storm – 3:56
8. Suffocating Syndrome – 3:36
9. Dehumanize – 3:47
Album Length: 32:55

Album Credits:
– All songs performed by: Devolver
– All songs written by: Devolver
– Produced, Mixed, Mastered by: Mark Lewis
– Album Artwork by: Travis Smith
– SOCAN members

Band Lineup:
Chris Brown – Vocals
Devin Babcock – Guitar (lead)
Jayde Penner – Guitar (rhythm)
Bevin Booth – Drums
Jaylen Elias – Bass

More info: https://linktr.ee/devolverab

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“The goal of Devolver through Non Compos Mentis has been to take the listener on a thoroughly pleasing journey from the first note to the final crushing moment. That’s been achieved, and so much more – as these Canadians understand how to compose songs and execute them in a highly convincing fashion that has this scribe grinning ear to ear – bringing the exciting sounds of the late 90s/early 2000s to a newer generation who desire more of this style. 9/10” – Dead Rhetoric

“For a group from a small northern city, every move has required deliberate effort—whether it was recruiting the right collaborators, waiting until circumstances lined up, or carrying material through years of delay. Non Compos Mentis is the document of that persistence: an album shaped by distance, disruption, and devotion to the sound that first made them want to pick up instruments.” – IDIOTEQ

“DEVOLVER is definitely ahead of the last releases of their great role models. On the one hand, because the Canadians work straight and without any frills, and on the other hand, because the melodies are all right without reducing the heaviness. When it comes to melodic death, there’s no way around this album this year. The only downside: 32 minutes is pretty short, even for such energy output!” – PowerMetal.de

“There is a sense of nostalgia listening to the guitarmonies throughout the album, calling back to the golden days of early 2000’s metalcore. Whether you’re a fan of death metal or metalcore, you’ll definitely find elements that you’ll appreciate on this album. Personally, my favourites are “Deathtouch” and “Suffocate Syndrome”” – False Chord

“Now we have Devolver with Non Compos Mentis. The sophomore album from this Canadian band is the perfect blend of melodeath and metalcore. Much like chocolate and peanut butter, this takes the best aspects of both genres, makes enough changes to feel authentic, and creates a sound that hits just as much in 2025 as it would have back in 2005. The production is brutal, but still audible and filled with layers. The songwriting shows off the capabilities of everyone in the band, but it doesn’t reveal all of its tricks. Overall, this is for anyone who enjoys everything from ’90s era In Flames to 2000 Soilwork to later 2000’s Lamb of God to the modern-day capabilities of what Melodeath and Metal Core are all about. This is a great trip back in time, but also a look forward to what can be done. This is excellent stuff.” – Heavy Debriefing

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0 JON HARRIS Unleashes the Heavier Side of Album “Parallel Heart” in New Playthrough “Wasted Entertainment”

October 7, 2025
by Asher
· Jon Harris · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 7, 2025

JON HARRIS Unleashes the Heavier Side of Album “Parallel Heart” in New Playthrough “Wasted Entertainment”

Edmonton instrumental rock guitarist JON HARRIS returns with a new playthrough video for his track “Wasted Entertainment”, taken from his acclaimed album “Parallel Heart,” released via Epictronic in December 2024.

“‘Wasted Entertainment’ takes aim at our obsession with social media, calling out the endless scroll that eats away those precious hours of our lives. It’s one of the heavier songs on the album, built on an early riff and loaded with punchy textures and layered sounds that took me a few tries to get right. Recently, I met someone who said it was their favourite track on the whole record, so crank it up!” says Harris.

Watch “Wasted Entertainment” at https://youtu.be/gIiLPbsf6wI

“Parallel Heart” is a vivid showcase of Harris’ multi-instrumental skills and compositional vision. While completely instrumental, the album conveys stories of tension and release, exploring the space between connection and chaos, creative ambition and everyday demands. From the pulsing energy of Togetherness to the shimmering retro feel of 97BPM, each track builds its own emotional narrative.

Harris, who performed guitar, drums, bass, piano, and production on the record, proves himself not only a guitarist to watch but a full-scale sonic architect. His sound bridges blues-soaked rock, synth-driven textures, and funk grooves with cinematic flair, evoking a blend that’s reminiscent of Jeff Beck meeting Prince with a modern rock edge.

Stream the full album “Parallel Heart” now (released Dec 13, 2024): https://orcd.co/parallelheart

Track Listing:
1. If You Wouldn’t
2. Wasted Entertainment
3. Entitled
4. Mustard N Ketchup
5. Parallel Heart
6. Mehnoynoy
7. 97BPM
8. My Little Lady
9. Togetherness
10. Humpty Dumpty

More Info – https://linktr.ee/jonharrisrocks

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“It’s a looping track (Entitled) that turns noodling guitar solos into an optimistic resolve. ” – Exclaim!

“guitar virtuoso Jon Harris offers a welcome throwback on ‘Togetherness’, the second single to be released from his forthcoming LP ‘Parallel Heart’. An instrumental number, its mid tempo and groove oriented base is immediately reminiscent of works by Joe Satriani, but unlike so many fretboard freaks, Harris clearly values a great melody instead of a pure shred. Here, he lays down a semi bluesy tone over a solid rock groove, before branching out to inject a funk derived rhythm with a cleaner tone, and bell like melodies. The arrangement eventually finds room for a few slightly fuzzy sounding harmonics and a melody that could be one of Satch’s best, circa ‘The Extremist’.” – Real Gone Rocks

“It’s Friday! And we have the pleasure of adding the new single “Togetherness” from six-string slinger Jon Harris. An instrumental driving rock track with an accessible melody and plenty of layered soloing to keep you engaged throughout, “Togetherness” is a rewarding five minutes without those pesky vocals! Taken from his forthcoming album “Parallel Heart” set for a December release, catch Jon Harris on your Home for the Best New Rock…W-J-O-EEEE!”

“His artistic ability blends technical brilliance and emotional depth, creating immersive soundscapes that push the boundaries of rock.” – Video Sound Art Magazine

“If melodic and elegant instrumental hard rock is music you tend to enjoy, and you appreciate some occasional funky interceptions in such landscapes, then this is an album that you probably will find to be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.” – The Viking in the Wilderness

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0 THE FIXER Unleashes New Single “Ugly Knots” For “The Ugly Knots Tour” Across Canada w/ TEKNOSIS

October 7, 2025
by Asher
· Music News · The Fixer

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 7, 2025

THE FIXER Unleashes New Single “Ugly Knots” For “The Ugly Knots Tour” Across Canada w/ TEKNOSIS

L-R: The Fixer Current Line Up | Vic Sin (Guitar) | Null (Drums) | Busuzu (Bass) | Melladonna (Vocals)
Photography by: Chu Shang

Thunder Bay, Canada’s The Fixer has dropped their new single “Ugly Knots”, a sonic and emotional powerhouse that sets the tone as they kick off their “The Ugly Knots Tour” this October with fellow hometown band Teknosis.

“Ugly Knots” is a raw, genre-defying track that fuses industrial metal with hardcore grit and ambient textures. It opens with abrasive riffs and harsh electronics before evolving into a sweeping, melodic climax, mirroring the emotional journey the band intends for listeners.

“This song is for the kind people we’ve seen be hated, harassed, and threatened. It’s written from the first-person perspective, but the spoken word section—contributed by our friend John Forget—comes directly from someone who lived that experience. It’s a message of strength in the face of cruelty,” says the band.

Lyrically and musically, “Ugly Knots” is one of The Fixer’s heaviest and most artful releases to date. Eschewing formulaic conventions, the band leans hard into their industrial roots while exploring themes of anger, sadness, and resilience. Fans of their heavier material will find plenty to latch onto, while new listeners will be drawn into its emotional depth.

The single marks the beginning of a new chapter for The Fixer, as they prepare to hit the road with Teknosis for a tour of Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta (dates listed below) that promises catharsis, chaos, and connection. “Ugly Knots” is more than a song; it’s a statement.

Listen to “Ugly Knots” at the following links:

YouTube – https://youtu.be/n3WZWMESNn8

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/3hvFHi6mVgqRlmDWHlAo8f

L to R – Andrew Wojciechowski – Vocals | Craig Kainulainen – Guitar | Ian – Drums | Travis Doggett – Bass

Photo Credit – Incompass Photography

Formed out of pure love for metal. Teknosis has quickly evolved into a tight, aggressive unit with a shared vision: to make heavy music that hits hard and leaves no room to breathe. Set to ignite stages across the country this October, Teknosis is bringing their relentless live energy to fans in support of their acclaimed 2024 EP “Return to Civilization”, a five-track barrage of groove-laced hardcore and death metal influences. It’s a compact, violent sonic explosion that lyrically channels frustration and isolation from lockdowns, with themes ranging from societal collapse to personal survival.

With ambient samples bridging each track, Teknosis will be a visceral live experience as they deliver a seamless, high-impact set that’s organic, heavy, and hypnotic.

“We still believe in live amps and drums straight to the cochlea. It’s all about maximum intensity. A sonic experience that’s as brutal as it is addictive,” says bassist Travis Doggett.

Fans can expect new singles starting in Fall 2025, leading up to a full-length album in late 2025 or early 2026. The October tour will feature tracks from “Return to Civilization” alongside unreleased material, giving audiences a taste of what’s to come.

Lyric Video – Teknosis – Shapeshifter – https://youtu.be/dWfqfwHSbQY

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/artist/5Cu2jRvDUKvEZdqJd5QjwJ

Ugly Knots Tour 2025 – The Fixer, Teknosis
Oct 2 – La Sarre, QC – La Brute du Coin *
Oct 3 – Montreal, QC – Piranha Bar *
Oct 4 – Levis, QC – Taverne La Barricade *
Oct 9 – Fort Frances, ON – Pink Parasol Tea Room
Oct 10 – Brandon, MB – The 40
Oct 11 – Prince Albert, SK – Studio Q
Oct 12 – Edmonton, AB – The Rendezvous
Oct 13 – Calgary, AB – Pin Bar
Oct 14 – Lethbridge, AB – The Slice
Oct 15 – Moose Jaw, SK – Chillers
Oct 16 – Saskatoon, SK – Green Room
Oct 17 – Regina, SK – The Exchange
Oct 18 – The Pas, MB – The Wescana Inn
Oct 19 – Winnipeg, MB – Osborne Taphouse
Oct 31 – Thunder Bay, ON – The Hunger 18 (Downtown-wide Hallowe’en Festival)
* = without Teknosis

More Info:

https://www.facebook.com/TheFixerBand | https://www.instagram.com/thefixercanada | https://www.tiktok.com/@thefixercanada

https://www.facebook.com/teknosismetal | https://www.instagram.com/teknosis.metal/

-30-

“Teknosis puts listeners through their paces. It feels like the songs could go off the rails at any moment, but remain incredibly syncopated throughout…. Teknosis has created an EP that lays the groundwork for bigger things to come and leaves listeners eager to hear more.” Jason Wellwood – Walleye Magazine

“Dark. Sexy. Loud. It’s The Fixer, and they create a soundtrack that would be fit for a disco in Hell. The Canadian four-piece straddle the line between rock and metal” – Games, Brrrains & A Headbanging Life

“One of the great young acts I found in 2023 came from Canada, The Fixer, who have created bold music and an even bolder look. Led by vocalist Melladonna, the band tries to give the look of a goth outfit. The music, however, tells a different story, as the band rocks as hard as anything you might hear out there now (if not more aggressive). The hook song was “Smoke Show,” but there were quality tracks all through the record. I enjoyed “Ghosts Will Talk,” which presents a spookier sound, and the bookends to the album, the title track and “Your Truth,” which gives a storytelling aspect to the album. I will be interested in seeing where this band goes, and I certainly hope they can get down to the southern tip of North America to bring their sound to an audience that would enjoy them!” – Rock At Night

“The song material is simply great, the emotions are wonderfully combined, and the performance is absolutely over the top.” – PowerMetal.de

“A high-resolution journey through pop rock, goth spirit, punk moods, metal vibes, and party glam rock, with a hint of comedy horror. ‘Your Lie’ is a spiky sound with a razor-sharp edge throughout.” – Rock Queen Reviews

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0 Fiddle Meets Fire THUNDEROR’s Celtic Rock Anthem “Cape Breton Home” Celebrates Maritime Heritage

October 6, 2025
by Asher
· Music News · Thunderor

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 6, 2025

Fiddle Meets Fire THUNDEROR’s Celtic Rock Anthem “Cape Breton Home” Celebrates Maritime Heritage

Thunderor L-R: Jonny Nesta (Guitar) | JJ Tartaglia (Vocals, Drums) | Brycen Gunn (Bass)

Photo Credit – Rae Chatten

Canadian rock powerhouse THUNDEROR returns with a stirring new single and music video, “Cape Breton Home,” a Celtic Rock anthem that pays homage to the island roots of frontman JJ Tartaglia. Known for their electrifying blend of heavy metal, pop punk, and rock opera, the band takes a reflective turn with this release, weaving nostalgia and tradition into their signature sound.

“I wanted to write a song inspired by back home, maybe it’s the time passing by, I felt a bit nostalgic and needed something to reconnect me to the island. What better way than with music! And I think in return, Cape Breton also needs a song like this,” says Tartaglia.

The track features a guest performance by acclaimed fiddler Colin Grant, whose work with Rum Ragged earned a 2021 JUNO nomination for Traditional Roots Album of the Year. Grant’s authentic Cape Breton fiddle style adds a rich layer of heritage to the song, grounding it in the island’s musical legacy.

The accompanying video, filmed on location in Cape Breton, captures the rugged beauty and emotional resonance of the place that inspired the song.

“I had a great trip back to shoot the video. It was a full-circle moment,” Tartaglia adds.

Formed in 2020 by multi-JUNO-nominated musicians JJ Tartaglia and Jonny Nesta (Skull Fist), THUNDEROR has quickly carved out a global following. Their debut album “Fire It Up” topped Earshot’s National Loud Chart, and their theatrical rock opera “Thunderor the Musical” premiered at the Toronto Fringe Festival in 2025 to rave reviews.

With “Cape Breton Home,” THUNDEROR continues to evolve, proving that even the loudest bands have a quiet place in their hearts.

Music Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfmVtc8HU1k

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/3UTjzJzo4teUElvWLgEyjY

Appreciated by fans of Judas Priest, Van Halen, and Saxon, Thunderor‘s releases are available via Boonsdale Records.

CD – https://thunderor.bigcartel.com

For more info: Boonsdalerecords.com/thunderor | Facebook.com/ThunderorOfficial | Instagram.com/thunderor_official | Musicnovascotia.ca/artist/thunderor/

– 30 –

“The bottom line for THUNDEROR is that a listen is urgently required. Those who like the singing will have a lot of fun with the CD” – Vampster

“If you’re looking for a solid rock record that’s equal parts pop and metal, Fire It Up could be your jam. The songs are well crafted, catchy and fun road companions. Take it on your next drive or spin it at Saturday’s kegger. Thunderor takes not being serious very seriously. They recaptured the spirit of 80s rock staples like Ozzy to Journey but also managed to put their own stamp on it. Not many throwback NWOTHM acts succeed in putting this much character in their sound.” – Angry Metal Guy

“The moment I first heard “How We Roll,” I knew I was in trouble…and instantly hooked. Other numbers like “All or Nothing,” “On the Run,” “We Can Make It,” and the epic title track, infuse multiple sub-genres like thrash, power, and synth metal, and are the type of adventurous anthems that make life still feel like it’s worth living even on its darkest of days.” – Rewind It Magazine

“The spirit of the glorious 80’s is omnipresent on the debut, those who like authentic 80’s sound should definitely check out.” 8/10” – Rock It!

“The good mood album of the season comes from Canada. Crisp, consistently catchy songs with excellent guitar work, sometimes enhanced with appropriate keyboard sounds.” 8,5/10” – Deaf Forever

“There must be room somewhere between Steel Panther, The Darkness and The Night Flight Orchestra!” – Metal Hammer

“Thunderor the Musical is infectious, hard-rocking comic book fun that blows the roof off the place – I smiled my way through the whole show – I bet you will, too.” – Sesaya Arts Magazine

“Thunderor the Musical is raucous fun with shredding guitars and driving drums… filled with catchy anthems, flawlessly performed by powerhouse musicians.” – Grind Mag

“I’m always impressed when a drummer handles lead vocals, especially in metal, where the physical demands of drumming are intense. JJ Tartaglia nailed it, delivering flawless vocals without missing a drum beat.” – Allfather Metal

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