Category: Music News

0 Rockshots Records – STYGIAN FAIR Unveils New Single “All of Us” – The Next Glimpse Into Upcoming Album “The Hidden Realm” Out July 2025

June 18, 2025
by Asher
· Music News · Stygian Fair (Rockshots Records)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 18, 2025

STYGIAN FAIR Unveils New Single “All of Us”

The Next Glimpse Into Upcoming Album “The Hidden Realm” Out July 2025

Following the raw intensity of their previous single “Abide Your Master”, Swedish heavy epic metallers Stygian Fair unveil a new and more introspective side of their upcoming album “The Hidden Realm” with the release of “All Of Us” — available now on all digital platforms alongside an official music video on the Rockshots Records YouTube channel.

Described by the band as “the closest we’ll come to a ballad on this record”, “All Of Us” explores themes of loneliness and conscience, trading thunder for nuance while keeping the emotional impact intact. With its haunting melodies and melancholic undertones, the track stands as a powerful reflection on the fragile spaces between isolation and inner strength.

The upcoming full-length “The Hidden Realm” marks a new chapter for Stygian Fair — sharper, more melodic, and more direct than ever before, yet uncompromising in its authenticity. Lyrically, the album dives deep into modern chaos and ancient myth alike, tackling everything from AI, political cults, and consumerism to existential reckoning and forgotten histories. It’s a record about the truths we bury, the world we ignore, and the cost of staying silent.

Known for their refusal to chase trends or rely on backing tracks, Stygian Fair keep things real, both in the studio and on stage. Their live performances are raw, honest, and deeply human. No masks. No click tracks. Just honest, melodic, heavy music delivered with purpose.

Featuring members with deep roots in the Scandinavian metal scene — including Andreas Stoltz (Hollow, Binary Creed), Emil Holmqvist and P-O Jonsson (Crave), and Anders Hedman (Witch) — Stygian Fair blends epic heavy metal with progressive influences and strong, emotionally driven songwriting. Their sound has been described as “uncompromising, melodic and timeless”, drawing comparisons to bands like Tad Morose and Memento Mori.

With “All Of Us,” Stygian Fair shows that heaviness doesn’t always come from volume—sometimes, it comes from honesty.

Digital – http://lnk.to/pLFwWLD2

Music Video – https://youtu.be/pOAK2Bf52rE

“The Hidden Realm” will be released on July 11th, 2025, via Rockshots Records.

ALBUM PRE-ORDER: https://rockshots.eu/PVKFrT2QFCWg6AF

Previous Single – “Abide Your Master”

Digital – https://lnk.to/AC8CVo

Music Video – https://youtu.be/SUY3nlK2_os

Track Listing:
1. The Hidden Realm
2. Abide Your Master
3. Into The Well
4. Peel The Layers Off
5. What You’re Fighting For
6. All Of Us
7. Dawn
8. Meteor
9. Anthem Of The Lost
10. Rise From The Shadows
11. Ferwor Of Fools

All songs written by Andreas Stoltz, Emil Holmqvist, Per-Olov Jonsson and Anders Hedman.
Produced by Stygian Fair, recorded at Ballerina Studios in Umeå.
Mixed by Marcus Jidell and mastered by CJ Grimmark.

STYGIAN FAIR Line Up:

Andreas Stoltz: Vocals, Guitar
Emil Holmqvist: Guitar
Anders Hedman: Bass
P-O Jonsson: Drums

Rockshots.eu

FOLLOW:
Stygian Fair on Instagram
Stygian Fair on Facebook
Stygian Fair on Spotify

ABOUT:
Stygian Fair is a band from a small town called Umeå in the north of Sweden. The band has existed for about nine years now, and it all started when both P-O Jonsson and Emil Holmqvist decided to leave a band called ” Crave” to lay the foundations for Stygian Fair. Erik Andersson joined on bass, and Andreas Stoltz on lead vocals and guitar. This first incarnation of the band never made a big mark, recording or gig-wise… due to life’s crooked path.

In the autumn of 2016, Erik left the band, and a few weeks later, so did Andreas as well. Soon thereafter, the band gathered new momentum by welcoming Anders Hedman as the new powerhouse bass player. After a couple of auditions, Pontus Åkerlund became the new singer, and with this setting, the band recorded and launched an EP named “Into the Coven”. The band began playing live frequently at different local venues. At the end of August 2018, the band entered the studio again, and in October of the same year, came the debut “Panta Rei”. In January 202,0 came the sophomore album “Nadir” and in April 2021, “Equilibrium”.

In September 2021, Pontus Åkerlund decided to leave the band. A few weeks’ search for a new vocalist led to the return of Andreas Stoltz as lead vocalist and guitar player, after his years in Binary Creed and Hollow. In late 2022, Stygian Fair entered the studio once again to record ten new powerful songs with Stygian Fair’s trademark strong melodies. It is titled Aradia after the witch daughter of Diana, the goddess of the hunt and the moon.

Now it’s time for a new chapter with a new album due in 2025 with Rockshots Records.

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0 Ethan Henry (Freya, The Last Season) Reveals First Single “A New Way To Die” From One-Man Solo Band ASHES OF THE SUN’s Debut Album “Gods With Machines”

June 17, 2025
by Asher
· Ashes of The Sun · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 17, 2025

Ethan Henry (Freya, The Last Season) Reveals First Single “A New Way To Die” From One-Man Solo Band ASHES OF THE SUN

Debut Album “Gods With Machines” Out August 2025

“If Metallica and Megadeth had a baby with Alice in Chains, that’s Ashes of the Sun.” – Ethan D. Henry

Ethan D. Henry – Photo Credit – Gidget Photos

Drummer and filmmaker Ethan D. Henry is proud to announce his first solo effort, ASHES OF THE SUN, and its debut album “Gods With Machines” due out August 1st, 2025, via his label Ignorant Tourist Productions.

Henry is best known as the drummer of hardcore titans FREYA (2004 – 2008, 2017-present), featuring EARTH CRISIS members Ian Edwards, Eric Edwards, and Karl Buechner, along with co-writing and performing on the THE LAST SEASON 2003 album “Called It Civilization”.

Henry has worn many hats over the years in his bands. Whether he needed to play bass, guitar, or drums, he was always up for the challenge.

“I was always a bass player with guitar second in my comfort zone. I could always sing, but I wasn’t like great at it. I don’t know when it happened, like when I became good enough to play any instrument, if we needed a drummer or guitar player, I was like…Okay, I’ll give it a shot. Then one day I was a drummer, I guess? I think I have impostor syndrome. ha”

Over the years, Henry had compiled a huge catalog of songs he had written. Unsure what to do with them, He sat in his studio and started to record them. Not sure what would become of them. He had his friend Jason “Jocko” Randle at CAPTURE STUDIO (Syracuse, N.Y.) to take a listen and put his mixing and mastering touch on it. After those sessions, Ethan decided his eclectic song list was cohesive enough to make an album. Thus, ASHES OF THE SUN was born.

“After recording about a dozen songs, I developed solos and vocals for them. I felt the way I played the solos and sang would help bring the songs together and could make the collection work as a full-length album. I’m very happy with the way GODS WITH MACHINES came out. It’s simply the way I play and write, and shows some of my influences in the metal/rock/grunge/alternative scene and how they blend together. The vision for this album was to have a flow like some of my playlists, and I imagine most people’s playlists. I hope that fans will enjoy the mellow acoustic/ballad intros that transition into hard rock/ metal flows. I wanted these songs to reach rock fans and metal fans alike. I’ve been in metal bands for a long time and love the brutality Karl and Dan brought to Freya and The Last Season, but I wanted to reach a broader audience. So I chose to tone the heavy vocals back and sing the album. I think ultimately, whether it’s my metal, rock, or grunge influences coming through in these songs, it sounds like the era of music I grew up listening to. late 90s, early 2000s. I like that about this record,” adds Henry.

The nine tracks on “Gods With Machines” were written, performed (drums, guitar, bass, vocals), and produced, along with the album artwork, all by Ethan D. Henry. Overall, the album is ultimately about having faith in God and constantly questioning it. It expresses feelings of being misled by those you admire and trust. It’s about being yourself and finding your spiritual path and God.

“On this particular album, my lyrics are about an alien race that lands on a planet after destroying their world. Realizing the people are looking to the sky for heaven, they pretend they are gods and take advantage of the natives, steal their resources, and live in their paradise. Eventually, the people rebel against the gods after years of abuse and lies. They overthrow the gods and realize they aren’t what they claim to be,” says Henry.

Bringing fans back to the era where metal and hard rock ruled the scene, and Headbangers Ball was kicking, Ashes of the Sun reveals the first single “A New Way to Die”. Henry explains the track:

“The chosen one is lost and giving up. He has lost his faith and doesn’t have the drive to carry on when he hallucinates a child taunting him. He cannot catch the child and continues to follow deeper into the wild. Eventually, he concludes this is the end and there is no hope. No one will find him. No one will save him. There is no heaven. We live in hell. What’s the point of going on? It’s time to throw in the towel.”

Listen to “A New Way to Die” via its premiere on New Noise Magazine HERE.

Digital single pre-save – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/ashesofthesun/a-new-way-to-die-single

“Gods With Machines” – Album pre-order (out August 1, 2025) – https://ignoranttouristproductions.com/

Track Listing:
1. Sophisticated Clowns – 5:49
2. Save The World – 4:17
3. Forced To Kill – 5:51
4. The Elephant – 4:34
5. A New Way To Die – 4:26
6. Gods With Machines – 5:15
7. The Lost Ones – 4:07
8. Here To Stay – 6:11
9. They Bleed Just Like You 4:31
Album Length: 45:05

More info: https://ignoranttouristproductions.com/ | https://www.instagram.com/ethanhenry43/ | https://www.instagram.com/ignorant_tourist_productions_/

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“One-man solo band ASHES OF THE SUN is the work of drummer / filmmaker Ethan D. Henry and he’s just dropped his new single, “A New Way To Die” from the forthcoming full length album “Gods With Machines” (Aug. 1st). Razor sharp riffs, heavy duty percussion and an overdrive rhythm section rule on “A New Way To Die” and it’s pretty glorious. We’ve had a chance to preview the entire album and it’s a hard rock juggernaut just waiting to be unleashed that is sure to please. Catch ASHES OF THE SUN on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
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0 Rockshots Records – Black Metal Storytellers MARGANTHA Unveils Next Single “Wolves At The Door” Off Debut EP “Blood Moon Sacrifice” Out June 2025

June 13, 2025
by Asher
· Margantha (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 13, 2025

Black Metal Storytellers MARGANTHA Unveils Next Single “Wolves At The Door”

Debut EP “Blood Moon Sacrifice” Out June 2025

Rockshots Records is excited to unveil “Wolves At The Door”, the new single from MARGANTHA, taken from their upcoming debut EP “Blood Moon Sacrifice“, out next June 27th, 2025.

Following the evocative atmospheres of the previous single “Curse Of The Full Moon“, this new track delves into a defining moment of the EP’s conceptual arc.

As the band explains:

“‘Wolves At The Door’ tells the story of when the villagers, isolated beneath the shadow of the mountains, finally come face to face with the horror they’ve feared—not a pack but a single, relentless werewolf. A nocturnal and primal being whose thirst for flesh evokes the terror of an entire horde.”

The song opens with a dark riff laced with exotic nuances, immediately setting a mysterious and foreboding tone. The central section evolves with a powerful melodic death metal influence, introducing new shades of aggression and tension. Balancing speed, melody, and black metal fury, the track offers a powerful and dynamic blend, at once brutal and atmospheric.

“This creature is more than just a legend—it’s a force that devours silence and sows panic. With this song, we wanted to translate the fear of the hunt, the chaos of uncertainty. The riffs alternate between menace and urgency, while the vocals embody both the predator and the prey,” the band continues.

True to MARGANTHA’s creative ethos, the songwriting began with the concept. Each musical decision was guided by narrative intent, prioritizing mood over technicality. The result is a visceral, cinematic experience where no element is superfluous—every note drives the story forward.

“Wolves At The Door” was mixed and mastered by Andy LaRocque (King Diamond) at Sonic Train Studio, whose precise production further intensifies the song’s sharp contrasts and layered textures.

MARGANTHA’s sound lies at the crossroads of Mgła’s atmospheres, Uada’s drive, Gaerea’s emotional weight, and the classic aggression of Venom and Behemoth. With “Blood Moon Sacrifice“, the band delivers a debut that fuses ancestral myth with the raw immediacy of modern black metal.

With this new chapter, MARGANTHA invites listeners deeper into the legend, where every shadow hides a truth and every door could open to a monster.

The third single, “Wolves At The Door,” is out now!

Spotify – http://lnk.to/y02jck

YouTube – https://youtu.be/62kdauyauHg

ALBUM PRE-ORDER – https://bit.ly/3Yz60nn

Track Listing:
1. Blood Moon Sacrifice
2. Wolves at the Door
3. Miriam and the Endless Night (ft. Andy LaRoque)
4. Curse of the Full Moon

Band Members:
• Nocturnus I – Vocals and Bass (FIN)
• Nocturnus II – Guitars (ITA)
• Nocturnus III – Drums (FIN)

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

BIOGRAPHY:

Margantha is an Italian-Finnish band formed by three musicians united by a passion for black metal and horror aesthetics. The project aims to create a powerful, evocative, and dramatic sound inspired by bands like Mgła, Ensiferum, Behemoth, and 1349, while incorporating atmospheric and melodic elements into their approach.

The band’s sound is a haunting and captivating tribute to black metal, enriched with lyrics inspired by horror and Gothic atmospheres reminiscent of the 19th century. Their music evokes a journey into the darkest and most mysterious corners of the soul, characterized by somber tones and lyrics that delve into the macabre and the supernatural.

Margantha draws inspiration from art in all its forms: from the literature of Bram Stoker, Mary Shelley, and Stevenson, to the paintings of Caravaggio, Bosch, and Turner. The band’s visual identity also reflects this artistic inclination, with carefully crafted photos designed to mimic the style of classical paintings, aligning with the dark and ominous atmospheres central to the project.

Born from the union of two distinct cultures, Italian and Finnish, Margantha blends the musical and artistic traditions of both countries to create a unique sonic experience.

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
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0 Blackened Thrash ETERNAL DRAK Unveils New Single “Eternal Drak” Off New EP “The Warrior Order” Out July 2025

June 13, 2025
by Asher
· Eternal Drak · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 13, 2025

Blackened Thrash ETERNAL DRAK Unveils New Single “Eternal Drak” Off New EP “The Warrior Order” Out July 2025

“The Warrior Order” Out July 17th, 2025

Eternal Drak’s current lineup – L-R – Andres Martinez “Drakar” (Vocal/Guitar), Patrick Auger “PPO”(Drums), Mike Amyot (Guitar)

Photo credit: Caroline Juneau

A year after unleashing their fourth studio album, “Imprisoned Souls,” in July 2024, Eternal Drak, formerly from Colombia and now residing in Quebec City, Canada, returns with their next offering, “The Warrior Order.” This five-track EP includes the band’s rendition of Metallica’s “Leper Messiah,” and it will be released on July 17th, 2025.

The EP serves as a heartfelt homage to the band’s journey, a way to honour the memories they’ve created and express their immense gratitude to the fans who have stood by them through the years. By revisiting and reimagining these older tracks from their 2002 debut, “La Resurreccion De La Orden Guerrera”, the now-formed trio aims to rekindle the connection with their long-time listeners while simultaneously inviting new fans to discover and embrace our unique sound. They hope to bridge the past and the future.

Fans can expect the blending of raw, nostalgic vibes of classic metal with the refined production and innovation of contemporary music. By doing so, the EP seeks to evoke powerful memories and untold stories from the past while offering a renewed, enriched auditory experience that resonates with both long-time metal enthusiasts and newer audiences.

“This EP bridges two distinct eras in the journey of Eternal Drak: the energetic creativity of the 1990s and the refined artistry of the present day. It represents a homage to the band’s origins, where young minds passionately crafted what is now revered as old-school metal. These early works have been revisited and revitalized, bringing their raw spirit into the modern soundscape with enhanced production quality that respects the authenticity of the era while ensuring it resonates with contemporary audiences. Through meticulously re-recording the four original tracks, Eternal Drak breathes new life into their debut, preserving the integrity of black thrash metal while making it accessible to a new generation of listeners. To complement this effort, the album includes a cover of one of the most iconic and influential bands in metal history, serving as both a tribute and a testament to the enduring inspiration these legends have provided. This project encapsulates the band’s unwavering dedication to their craft, blending nostalgia with innovation to create a sound that is timeless yet refreshingly current,” adds band founder Andres Martinez, “Drakar” (Vocal/Guitar).

The lyrics on “The Warrior Order” are drawn from Eternal Drak‘s inspiration from a narrative crafted during the band’s early years, which delves into the tale of Lucifer’s exile to the underworld. The story portrays how his influence pervaded humanity, shaping beliefs, behaviors, and aspirations in profound ways. It explores the impact of his legacy on Earth, touching on themes of power, temptation, and rebellion. Furthermore, the narrative captures Lucifer’s relentless quest to find pathways back into the mortal realm, ultimately aiming to reclaim dominion and challenge the celestial forces that banished him. This intricate and evocative storyline serves as the foundation for much of the band’s lyrical content, blending mythological depth with existential reflection to resonate powerfully with listeners.

Since their inception, black thrash metal forms the backbone of Eternal Drak‘s musical identity, enriched by dynamic influences that span rock & roll and groove elements, with Latin rhythms adding a unique touch of cultural depth. The band’s steadfast commitment to black thrash metal serves as a constant through the years, acting as a solid foundation for their evolving sound. While their compositions continue to explore diverse stylistic directions, the essence of black thrash metal remains unshaken, anchoring their music with raw energy and authenticity. Eternal Drak’s ability to seamlessly integrate these varied influences showcases their versatility and adds layers of complexity to their identity, ensuring their sound is both compelling and intensely memorable.

Today, the band unveils the lead single “Eternal Drak” off “The Warrior Order”. The track stands as a monumental piece from the band’s original 2002 EP, embodying the raw energy and vision that first defined their journey. This signature track remains a centerpiece in live performances, electrifying audiences with its unapologetic intensity. Its original accompanying music video, crafted in 2002, clinched the prestigious CityTV award for Best Metal Video, a recognition that not only cemented the band’s place in the metal scene but also drew a wave of devoted fans into their fold.

Listen to “Eternal Drak” at the following links:

YouTube – https://youtu.be/1-0bf5dmCW0

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

Track Listing:
1. Oda a la luna – 4:22
2. Contra Viento – 5:16
3. Eternal Drak – 5:50
4. La Nueva Orden – 5:51
5. Leper Messiah (Cover) – 5:29
EP Length: 26:48

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

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“”Drak Metal” is an excellent album, a deserving addition to any metalhead’s collection. With a few specific focuses here and there, the combination of Black and Thrash and Groove metals is done with near perfect balance, so there should be a wide appeal. ” – Metal Temple (2024 – Imprisoned Souls)

“the album comes with a sharp and grim expression set to an appropriately dark mood and mode, and in terms of mood and atmosphere this album did remind me ever so slightly of Celtic Frost, even if the music itself is rather different. That being said, I would imagine that quite a few thrash metal fans that also enjoy a little bit extreme metal as well as a band like aforementioned Celtic Frost would feel right at home with the landscapes explored on this production.” – The Viking in the Wilderness (2024 – Imprisoned Souls)

“‘Drak Metal’ is actually very enjoyable… it has a supreme raw quality to it which gives the album a sense honest integrity that just means that the listener cannot get enough of it, that passion is infectious and is more than enough to say, more of the same guys… more of the same.” – Metal Digest (2021 – Drak Metal)

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0 Canada’s MAD PARISH Unleash Animated Odyssey with New Music Video “Hunted” Off New Album “The Dust Of Forever”

June 13, 2025
by Asher
· Mad Parish · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 13, 2025

Canada’s MAD PARISH Unleash Animated Odyssey with New Music Video “Hunted” Off New Album “The Dust Of Forever”

Limited Edition Red/Blue Vinyl Now Available + Comic Book

Montreal’s own progressive heavy metal powerhouse Mad Parish has dropped a thunderous new animated music video for their latest instrumental single “Hunted”, taken from their 2025 album “The Dust of Forever”. The video, now streaming on YouTube, marks a bold visual leap for the band, blending their signature classic metal sound with a dark, cinematic narrative brought to life through animation.

“Hunted” showcases the band’s evolving artistry, pairing soaring guitar riffs and thunderous rhythms with a haunting animated tale of pursuit, survival, and inner reckoning.

The video’s release follows a string of successful singles and continues Mad Parish’s tradition of fusing old-school metal and 70s progressive rock influences with modern storytelling. Known for their electrifying live shows and intricate compositions, the band has carved out a loyal following in the Canadian metal scene and beyond.

Fans can watch the full animated video for “Hunted” on Mad Parish’s official YouTube channel and stream the track on all major platforms.

Watch “Hunted” at https://youtu.be/iHbJNmYoiNY

“The Dust of Forever” is Mad Parish’s most ambitious project to date: a sprawling 21-track concept album that fuses classic metal roots with cinematic storytelling. Released on January 31st, the album is now available in a limited edition collector’s vinyl, offering fans a truly immersive experience both sonically and visually.

The special edition features a striking two-record set—Record 1 in red, Record 2 in blue—with only 100 hand-numbered copies in existence. Each package includes a Mad Parish patch, a 50-page full-color companion comic book titled The Experience Hunter Chronicles, and a metallic art print signed by the band.

“The Dust of Forever” follows the journey of Joe, an immortal protagonist navigating a universe on the brink of collapse. From the haunting “Prophecy” to the climactic “Hail to the Hunter,” the album blends NWOBHM-inspired riffs with progressive rock structures, 70s swagger, and even touches of classical and jazz. It’s a sonic odyssey recommended for fans of Iron Maiden, Rush, and Rainbow.

“The album has interesting origins. A song from our first album was inspired by a comic book. After Bob Eaglesham joined the band, he mused about what would happen if this priest from the comic discovered that he was immortal, and the song “The Dust Of Forever” was written. Once we started writing some more songs, we discussed what kind of album to make next. That is when we came upon the idea of expanding this world we were writing about, and making a concept album,” adds vocalist Josh McConnell.

The collector’s edition is available exclusively through Mad Parish’s Bandcamp page, and supplies are extremely limited.

Watch vocalist Josh McConnell showcase the vinyl on the band’s Instagram reel at https://www.instagram.com/p/DHPEXEgyNjz/

Only 100 numbered copies were printed. Get your copy at https://madparish1.bandcamp.com/album/the-dust-of-forever

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/4jBAs9v

Music Video – An Age To Quell – https://youtu.be/vjNGxXLMXtE

Music Video – Bishop’s Tomb – https://youtu.be/zrpXosWhnuU

Music Video – Loched – https://youtu.be/IHS5qxAp3-s

Comic Book Cover – The Experience Hunter Chronicles

Comic Book Credits:
Story – Josh McConnell
Artwork – Niall Skinner
Editing – Rahl Stafford
Design – Maximus Rex

Track Listing:
1. Prophecy – 1:30
2. Defecther – 4:32
3. Possess The Child – 4:45
4. Outerest In Irisius – 1:34
5. Ouen Formation – 6:35
6. Hunted – 1:51
7. Astra T.R.A.Z (Tower Reformatory Asteroid Zone) – 4:42
8. Transmission #1 Dream On – 1:40
9. Resistius – 6:44
10. Aeternal – 1:44
11. An Age To Quell – 4:05
12. Transmission #2 – Will Of God – 2:04
13. Loched – 3:24
14. Cathedron Wakes – 5:37
15. Book of Rites – 1:06
16. Bishop’s Tomb – 3:32
17. Transmission #3 – Baz Raa Luum – 1:46
18. The Experience Hunter – 5:04
19. Trajectory: Tantus – 2:02
20. The Dust Of Forever – 5:11
21. Hail To The Hunter – 1:01
Album Length: 1:10:40

Album Band Line Up:
Josh McConnell – Lead Vocals, Guitars, Bass (Track 8)
Bob Eaglesham – Guitars, Vocals, Bass (Track 18), Drums (Track 18), Keyboards (All Tracks except 8, 12, 15, 18, 19)
Andre Bisson – Keyboards (All Tracks except 1, 4, 6, 10, 12, 17, 21), Piano (Track 15)
Peter Mika – Keyboards (2nd keyboard solo on Resistius Track 9)
Patrick Latreille – Bass (All Tracks except 8, 18)
Paskal Belanger – Drums (Track 2,3,5,7,9,13,14)
Gopal Devanathan – Drums (Track 11, 16, 20)
Tony Spina – Drums (Track 12)
Jeff Louch – Piano (Track 12)

More Info: Madparishmetal.com | Facebook.com/madparishmetal | Instagram.com/madparishmetal

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“where some bands call the lyrics the story and leave it at that, not Mad Parish. They’ve actually made a full comic book as well to go along with the record” – Decibel Magazine

“We all know the prog metal genre is still overflooded by bands from all parts of the world. I stopped trying to keep updated in the genre many years ago, but sometimes there are bands that impress on me – or at least bring something different to most other bands in the genre. Montreal (Canada) band Mad Parish is a band I’d like to bring to your attention. They have a sound that comes closer to the end of the 80’s and early 90’s, which I like a lot. And the lead vocalist Josh McConnell has a very interesting voice, a bit like an early Ozzy Osbourne. Futhermore, they are not as progressive as your ’average’ prog metal act, and some songs can be described as ’hard rock with hints of prog’ – where others are true prog metal songs… well worth checking out, as this album offers something a little different to many bands.” – Melodic.net

““The Dust of Forever” is filled with material that will grab you right away but your appreciation will continue to grow with each additional spin. As I sit here writing this review and listening to the title track unfold (which btw is the last “song”), I’m already looking forward to hitting that repeat button to start this metal opera again. While I admit there is no one track that stands out, I’m realizing that the whole record stands out and works best when listened to from start to finish. This record may have taken many years to complete but it is worth it. 2025 is starting off with a bang and “The Dust of Forever” is a great way to usher in the new year.” – Wormwood Chronicles

“Progressive with classic riffs and a voice reminiscent of Ozzy. Overall, an interesting record that takes some getting used to ( because of the many interludes, but should not be underestimated. I find 8 out of 10 Hellfire points Canadians are allowed to attach themselves to their album.” – Hellfire Magazin

“For the Mad Parish comic, I must say that this booklet has certainly scored a more than enough score; the story, a fanciful epic with an entertaining mix of sci-fi and religious ingredients is a great pleasure, and the drawings may be somewhat “-easy” modern, but still of such quality, that really makes it worth taking a seat.” – Rock Portaal

“Josh McConnell’s vocals are a ray of hope because the singer exudes a lot of charisma and partly reminds me of a young Ozzy Osbourne… fine compositions such as ‘Ouen Formation’, which does it quite convincingly, to combine the prog page of IRON MAIDEN with GENESIS in the early Collins phase and even give you a good catchy tune.” – PowerMetal.de

“Somewhere between the melodic prog rock a la Asia to Rush, and the spicier NWOBHM of something in the direction of Praying Mantis; that’s how the music of The Dust Of Forever comes across to me. Names such as BOC, Boston or Iron Maiden can also sometimes appear. Mad Parish seems to belong to the NWOTHM movement; or the New Wave Of Traditional Heavy Metal. Very catchy, beautiful pieces with harmonic melody lines… The compositions are absolutely of top level, as are the appropriate and melodic ( often high) vocals and I also really need to mention the guitars. The technical interpretation of the rhythm section may not be as clear as, for example, the aforementioned Rush, but this is also just fine. With so much keyboard available, I had a completely different scene in mind for the title Transmission #2 Will Of God, but no (kerk) organ or gospel; We hear a wonderful jazz-freaky Fripp-like piece of work. This album is well put together and also contains some surprises.” – Rock Portaal

“A traditional and original album at the same time, whose intensive listening and acquisition should be added to the list of your good resolutions for the year 2025.” – Music In Belgium

“These Canadian trad metallers take us deeper into the story of their forthcoming concept album – and comic book – with a song which very much draws from how Black Sabbath recorded ‘Paranoid’, in that it was thrown together as a last-minute album filler but could become one of their defining musical moments’ – Uber Rock

“an ambitious heavy metal album that offers a mix of complex musicality and concept-oriented lyrics.” – MetalUnderground.at

“the album weaves an original story through a tapestry of Heavy Metal, following the journey of Joe, an immortal protagonist caught in a universe-threatening cataclysm, promising to transport listeners to another realm, with layered sounds and textures that reveal new aspects with each listen… Fans can look forward to an immersive album experience… one of the most innovative bands hailing from Montreal.” – The Headbanging Moose

“This one is red hot folks, the new album “Dust of Forever” from Mad Parish arrives today and it’s impressive. Track after track of ‘New Wave of British Heavy Metal’ that melds with progressive rock and in the end you have one kickin’ album man. Catch tracks from Mad Parish & “Dust of Forever” on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll

“A bit of a ‘catch-all’ album, but this musically rich and eclectic set, which brings Joe ‘s adventures to life and allows you to browse through the beautiful comic book illustrating the compositions at the same time, has the merit of being terribly addictive and allows Mad Parish to sign an excellent album.” – Prog Critique

“an album that overflows with a magnetism”- Dargedik Webzine

“The Dust of Forever presents a number of interesting musical ideas… it offers a thrilling blend of Floydian space rock, the playful prog of Rush, organ-driven Deep Purple, and British heavy metal.” – The NWOTHM

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
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0 Exitus Stratagem Records – Vancouver’s THIRTEEN GOATS Roar Into Summer 2025 with Dual Award Nominations and Festival Blitz (Loud As Hell, Mosh the Rock, Party in the Park)

June 12, 2025
by Asher
· Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 12, 2025V

Vancouver’s THIRTEEN GOATS Roar Into Summer 2025 with Dual Award Nominations and Festival Blitz (Loud As Hell, Mosh the Rock, Party in the Park)

New Album “Capricorn Rising” Out Now! via Exitus Strategem Records

“It’s really strong. GREAT musicians, great production, as well as a very progressive aspect without losing the darkness.” – Kelly Schaefer, Atheist

Vancouver’s genre-bending metal juggernaut Thirteen Goats is charging into the spotlight with two major award nominations and a stacked summer festival schedule that’s set to melt faces across Western Canada.

The band has been nominated for Best Metal Video at the Canadian Independent Music Video Awards (https://dropoutentertainment.ca/metal-the-5th-canadian-independent-music-video-awards/) for their blistering visual assault “Sign of the Goat,” and for Metal & Hard Music Artist of the Year at the Western Canadian Music Awards (https://breakoutwest.ca/awards) — a testament to their relentless creativity and rising influence in the Canadian metal scene. The band is nominated for a WCMA alongside Anciients, Torrefy, Art of Attrition, and Holy Void.

Fresh off their nomination highs, Thirteen Goats are gearing up for a trio of high-octane festival appearances:

Loud As Hell Open Air – Drumheller, AB – (August 1st – 3rd) – https://loudashell.ca/

MOSH THE ROCK – Sooke, BC – (August 10th) – https://www.facebook.com/events/1932051257598357

Party in the Park 3 – Fort McMurray, AB – (Sept 13th) – https://lnk.bio/partyintheparkfestYMM

Known for their punishing live shows, razor-sharp riffs, and tongue-in-cheek lyrical savagery, Thirteen Goats have carved out a unique niche by fusing numerous metal subgenres and delivering the results with a theatrical twist. The quartet unleashed their sophomore LP “Capricorn Rising” in July 2024 via Exitus Stratagem Records. The concept album tells the story of their mascot, Shepherd: a goat-skull-wearing Antichrist who raises an army of animals to liberate the earth from humanity’s constant wars and greed.

Each song on the record is part of a broader narrative that explores themes of disillusionment, radicalization, and rebellion as Shepherd and his 12 demon goats wage their crusade. This storytelling approach takes listeners on a journey through the darkest aspects of both human and animal nature across nine tracks that combine elements of death metal, thrash, and groove.

Listeners should expect furious riffage, ambitious song structures, and even occasional female guest vocals (courtesy of guest artist Carly Ellen Jones). What they shouldn’t expect is a record that plays it safe or falls neatly into one specific subgenre. Thirteen Goats is recommended for fans of Lamb of God, Carcass, and Mastodon.

Released on July 12, 2024, “Capricorn Rising” is available from Exitus Stratagem Records at https://www.exsrmusic.com/store/p/pre-sale-thirteen-goats-capricorn-rising

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/41hkue1

Music Videos:

Murder Lives in the Heart – https://youtu.be/hpgqlbehecM

Sign of the Goat – https://youtu.be/D_J3sPkBPxU

A Wolf in Shepherd’s Clothing – https://youtu.be/6J5wSen7Emc

More info: Exsrmusic.com | ThirteenGoats.com

-30-

“It’s really strong. GREAT musicians, great production, as well as a very progressive aspect without losing the darkness.” – Kelly Shaefer from Atheist

“take a spin around the room with Thirteen Goats’ “high-concept narrative” and take on modern metal stylized by everything from Mastodon and Carcass to Cannibal Corpse and Lamb of God.” – Decibel Magazine

“Tinnitist Album of The Week! Thirteen Goats ‘Capricorn Rising’ – Exitus Stratagem Records – https://tinnitist.com/2024/07/11/albums-of-the-week-thirteen-goats-capricorn-rising/

“All in all, on “Capricorn Rising” the gentlemen from the West Coast combine the universal power of North American thrash metal into a versatile, interesting and, above all, powerful record. 8/10″ – Power-Metal.de

“What makes this turbocharged song (Sign of The Goat) so damned much diabolical fun is the band’s melding of viscerally compulsive grooves, head-spinning instrumental pyrotechnics, and rapid-fire vocal assaults — and doing so in a way that makes the track highly infectious too. The song vividly intersects with the tech-death sphere through flurries of quickly darting, swirling, and swarming riffage, deliriously cavorting arpeggios, and a multitude of percussive fusillades. As displayed in the video, fingers and limbs fly like the wind, and the guttural barks and hair-raising screams in the vocal department rhythmically eject the violent words just as fast and just as furiously. But, as forecast, the song is also a viscerally groovesome beast. It’s almost relentlessly hard-slugging, but what really stands out are brutish, muscle-galvanizing jackhammer-bursts, the first of which comes only 25 seconds into the track. Another one of those episodes sets itself up as the backdrop for crazed guitar soloing that sounds like the ecstasies of fiends. And we did warn you — this thing is also immediately catchy and enduringly addictive. It comes recommended for fans of Bolt Thrower, Archspire, and Lamb of God.” – NoCleanSinging

“To get some idea of Thirteen Goats’ approach to heavy music, consider that the Straight’s own Mike Usinger once asked readers to imagine “Vulgar Display of Power-era Pantera in a cage match with Cannibal Corpse and Ministry.” That’s a great start, but it doesn’t account for tracks like “Beheading Zoo”, which tops neck-snapping thrash with enough throat-shredding black-metal screams to please even the most discerning Mayhem fan. Or “Murder Lives in the Heart”, which throws a soaring refrain of heaven-sent clean vocals (courtesy of Carly Ellen Jones) into the mix… Capricorn Rising is that rarest of things in today’s world: a true album, with a set of songs designed to be listened to in sequence. Those songs tell the tale of Shepherd, a man so distraught over the state of the world—endless wars, environmental devastation, and other human-made disasters—that he sells his soul for the power to communicate with non-human creatures… Capricorn Rising is a saga replete with scorched-earth mayhem and mass slaughter—something you can bang your head to while pondering your own complicity in the global capitalist exploitation of ecosystems and peoples alike. In other words, it’s basically the perfect LP for our profoundly fucked-up epoch.” – Georgia Straight (Vancouver Weekly)

“they turn on the thrusters for “Beheading Zoo” and “Permission To Die,” closer “Animal Kingdom” is a quasi-ballad with a ferocious second half. ” – Heavy Music Headquarters

“their music gets the blood pumping. Sounding something like Archspire mixed with Blackening-era Machine Head, the tracks on Capricorn Rising are direct and violent. ” – Metal Utopia

“I’d say this is melodic death, some brutal death stuff, melodic music, black metal vox, growns and clean vox too.” – 89.9 WORT FM – The Moshpit (Madison, WI)

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
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0 Canadian Death Metal HARVESTED Announces New Album “Dysthymia” With Devastating Music Video “Harvested”

June 12, 2025
by Asher
· Harvested · Music News · Uncategorized

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 12, 2025

Canadian Death Metal HARVESTED Announces New Album “Dysthymia” With Devastating Music Video “Harvested”

“Dysthymia” Out August 1st, 2025

Album Line-up: (L-R) – Jacob Collins – Drums, Vitto Oh – Guitars, Mitchi Dimitriadis – Guitars, Adam Semler – Vocals, Eric Forget – Bass

Photographer Credit: Kristen Semler

Canadian death metal quartet Harvested is proud to announce their new album “Dysthymia”, set for release on August 1st, 2025. The nine-track record showcases the band’s evolution from their 2022 demo debut, delivering a devastating blend of technical death metal, brutal death metal, and old-school stylings. The album announcement comes alongside a music video for the record’s opening track, “Harvested”, offering fans their first glimpse into the dark psychological landscape that defines “Dysthymia”. The band comments on the track:

“The single represents what the band is about. The old-school death metal influences and the dark realities of mental illness put someone through a tortured experience. This was the first song we worked on for this album and played live, which set the bar for the remaining material. We realized that we were onto something special, and the sheer brute force of the track compelled us to make our current music video.”

‘Harvested’ maintains the brutality from the demo but shifts toward exploring the psychological aspects of mental illness rather than relying solely on gore. It’s heavier, more aggressive, and showcases the band’s musical abilities in ways they’ve never presented before.

Recorded over nearly three years, “Dysthymia” features the core lineup of Mitchi Dimitriadis (guitars), Adam Semler (vocals), Eric Forget (bass), and Jacob Collins (drums). The album was produced by Harvested with mixing and mastering by Joe Lyko of Darkmoon Productions, achieving a modern sound while staying rooted in the foundational elements of death metal.

Recommended for fans of Cannibal Corpse, Suffocation, and Dying Fetus, Harvested has crafted an album that is both technically proficient and devastatingly brutal.

Watch and listen to the first single and music video “Harvested” via its premiere on Decibel Magazine HERE.

Spotify pre-save – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/harvested1/dysthymia

Album pre-order (out August 1st) – https://harvested.bandcamp.com

Track Listing:
1. Harvested (3:28)
2. Repressed Neurosis (3:32)
3. Unending Madness (3:21)
4. Synaptic Confusion (3:30)
5. Designed Dilemma (3:18)
6. Gathered and Deluded (3:00)
7. Voices of the Void (3:16)
8. Unanchored (3:51)
9. The Infestation (4:36)
Album Length: 31:55

Album Credits:
Artwork by: CJ Bertram
All songs written and produced by: Harvested
Mixed and Mastered by: (Joe Lyko) Darkmoon Productions

Album Band Lineup:
Adam Semler – Vocals
Mitchi Dimitriadis – Guitars
Vitto Oh – Guitars
Eric Forget – Bass
Jacob Collins – Drums

Live Band Lineup:
Adam Semler – Vocals
Mitchi Dimitriadis – Guitars
Vitto Oh – Guitars
Eric Forget – Bass
Nick Rodgers – Drums

More info: Facebook.com/harvested666 | Instagram.com/harvestedband

– 30 –

Press from 2022 Self-Titled EP:

MetalSucks – 10 Modern Canadian Death Metal Bands – “Ottawa’s Harvested present mental illness and the sometimes-deplorable actions resulting from it with their debut EP, Harvested. Harvested describe themselves as a modern death metal band with ‘90s and early ‘2000s influences, though what you’ll notice when listening is that Harvested are, probably due to the members’ prior history in the scene, skilled songwriters who don’t sacrifice catchiness for brutality. Songs like “Bludgeoned” skip the pleasantries and grab you by the nuts from the first second, though the torturous massage that follows is one you’ll be coming back to.” – MetalSucks

#11 – Harvested – Top 20 – August 2022 Loud Charts (Earshot)

#13 – Harvested – Top 20 – June 2022 Loud Charts (Earshot)

“From the first notes of first track ‘Apathetic’ you realize that these men are a serious bet to get a place in the death metal scene, with solid riffs and powerful rhythmic base, also melodic but not soft solo… I like this EP very much, it has all parts you need to listen to death metal: brutality, technical, good execution, guttural, screams, and growls, blast beats, double bass drums parts, virtuous parts and most important, good songs, it’s a sample of how to make everything fit correctly.” 4.5/5 – Brutalism

“There are very few things that are more exciting within the world of music than a good debut. A solid start for a band is something that should get every fan of the style of music the group plays jacked for what could hopefully be a long and fruitful career. Proficient debuts give you something to jam out to in the present but also hope for the future. Take my word for it, the self-titled debut EP from Ottawa-based Harvested (out May 7) is just that type of invigorating release.” – Metal Plague

“Thrashing guitars, blasting drums, and intense, chesty vocals start and end each track. Recording quality and production is good, allowing each of the instruments to cut through the mix… there is a tremendous amount of potential in this band, and I’d absolutely love to hear more from them. I certainly hope that in the coming years, the pace doesn’t slow or abate, as this EP ought to be on any tech-death fan’s radar for mid-2022.” – Metal Epidemic

“Each one of these cuts is something of a short, sharp shock at around the 210 second mark, while other bands could trim some fat and loose a chorus and verse, Harvested go straight for the jugular live and direct, leaving you wanting that extra chorus and verse which is testament to how good their debut really is. A clean and crisp high quality recording, if we were wine drinkers we would say it goes down like a glass of Chenin Blanc but chances are that if you had a glass in your hand, it would be smashed on the floor in your rush to get to the pit for this. ” – Metal Noise

“From the way closer ‘Bereavement’ comes to a thunderous close, you can just FEEL the energy of what is still to come. ‘Harvested’ is a good start, but I know this band have more in them and I look forward to what comes next. But if you need your head caved in for sixteen and a half minutes, Harvested can sort you right out.” – The Killchain Blog

“For a record that’s only fifteen minutes, the tracks on Harvested’s self-titled waste no time in establishing their barbarous quality. Among the style of tech, groove and dissonance, Harvested definitely went for the grooves! The members definitely know their roots and aren’t afraid to pay homage to them. The production quality has an old-school touch to it, which adds a raw vicious quality to the overall soundscape the band has painted. The abominable monstrosity that takes birth, mixed in with serious topics of Mental Illness accounts for a remorseless experience. While this might just be the starting point for Harvested, their self-titled EP establishes their grounds in the extreme realm of metal – all we can do now is wait and watch for what Harvested has to offer next! ” – Metal Genesis

“Five tracks in all with not a single entry which disappoints those who wish for their audio to incite movement. With quality like this on offer scouts should be scrambling over themselves in hopes to represent. I’m expecting future releases to propel the act to the lips of an excitable many.” – Cult Metal Flix

“Non-stop heaviness from start to finish. Every song has a different experience yet they all have memorable and catchy riffs that engage the listener” – Eric Morotti (Drummer of Suffocation)

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
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0 WACKEN METAL BATTLE USA 2025 National Final w/ PRIME PROPHECY (New Jersey Winner), WHAT’S WRONG (Pacific Northwest Winner), PONTIFEX (Florida Winner), FIREHAZE (East Coast Winner), MOURNING HIGH (West Coast Winner), BROKEN TIME (Texas Winner)

June 12, 2025
by Asher
· Music News · Wacken Metal Battle USA

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 12, 2025

WACKEN METAL BATTLE USA Announces 2025 National Final

w/ PRIME PROPHECY (New Jersey Winner), WHAT’S WRONG (Pacific Northwest Winner), PONTIFEX (Florida Winner), FIREHAZE (East Coast Winner), MOURNING HIGH (West Coast Winner), BROKEN TIME (Texas Winner)

One Band To Conquer Them All & Play Wacken Open Air

One Band To Conquer Them All! Wacken Metal Battle USA 2025 national final will be held on Saturday, June 21st, in Clifton, USA, at Dingbatz where one unsigned American band will be crowned champion and perform at one of the world’s most prestigious and largest already sold-out metal festivals Wacken Open Air (July 30th – August 2nd) (Attendance of over 80,000 people in Wacken, Germany for over 30 years).

After multiple battles across the country that began in January of this year, the final six American bands will bring their onslaught of metal and be judged by a panel of music industry judges that include Jeff Buttermark (FM Management), Shawn Quinn (Napalm Records), and more TBD.

“Another successful battle is nearing its conclusion. I can’t wait to see which band wins and represents the US in the Wacken Metal Battle this year at the Holy Ground. I want to give a special thanks to Jon Asher and Chris Cannella. Thanks to all of our promoters, venues, judges, media partners, fans, and of course…the bands for all their hard work. Close to 200 bands and 40 battles across the country, and we are down to the final 6 at the Legendary Dingbatz in New Jersey!” comments WMBU national organizer Eric Dow.

The 2025 WMBU champion will receive the following:
– A slot at the 2025 Wacken Open Air Festival.
– Full professional backline provided.
– $1,000 USD towards flights to Germany.
– VIP camping at the festival.

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

List of previous WMBU national winners: Cascade Effect (2024 – San Diego), Fadrait (2023 – San Diego), Mythraeum (2022 – San Diego), Monarch (2019 – San Diego), Voices of Ruin (2018 – Anaheim), and Corpse Hoarder (2017 – Philadelphia).

Winning their territorial battles respectively, the final six are the following:

Spotify – 2025 WMBU National Finalists Playlist – https://spoti.fi/4kDedzW

Formed in 2021, Broken Time is a modern metalcore band based in Temple, Texas. Known for their fusion of heavy riffs, melodic elements, and progressive structures, their music features complex guitar work, dynamic rhythms, and emotionally charged vocals. The band has been actively contributing to the Texas metal scene, performing at various venues and collaborating with other local acts.

Music Video – Conscious – https://youtu.be/MXJ8aLvdGE4

https://www.facebook.com/Brokentime254/

========================================

FireHaze is a Cuban-American metal band known for blending melodic death and thrash metal with groove and core influences. The band was formed in 2009 by three Cuban musicians—Yunior, Carlos, and Hector—who had migrated to West New York, New Jersey.

The story began in 2007 when Yunior arrived from Havana and sought out fellow musicians to form a band. He connected with Carlos, a guitarist from Bayamo, and later with Hector, a drummer who had also recently moved from Havana. Their chemistry was immediate, and after experimenting with different sounds and names—including a brief stint as “Illuminated By The Fire”—they officially became FireHaze during a jam session on a hot August night overlooking the New York City skyline.

From the start, FireHaze aimed to stand out. They incorporated unusual percussion and string instruments, and often collaborated with guest musicians to shape their live sound. Their influences include heavyweights like Lamb of God, Dimmu Borgir, Sepultura, Megadeth, and Children of Bodom.

Though unsigned, FireHaze has remained active in the North Jersey and New York metal scenes, performing live and working toward a full-length album. They proudly identify as a Cuban-American band, rooted in their heritage while forging a path in the U.S. metal underground.

Live Video – Rotten – https://youtu.be/Sl6OkU4KV_I

https://www.facebook.com/FireHaze

========================================

Mourning High is a rising thrash metal band that hails from Southern California and Arizona. Formed in 2023, the band quickly gained traction through social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where their raw energy and nostalgic thrash sound struck a chord with fans of classic metal.

Their music is heavily influenced by legendary acts like Megadeth, and they’ve been praised for bringing back the gritty, high-octane spirit of 1980s thrash. What sets Mourning High apart is not just their sound, but their chemistry—these guys have been friends since preschool, and that bond fuels their performances and touring life.

They’re currently unsigned and independent, but their momentum is undeniable. With over 50,000 followers on TikTok and a growing fanbase across streaming platforms, Mourning High is carving out a name for itself in the modern metal scene.

Live Video – F.F.Y.L – https://youtu.be/Qwu5aYEXYBk

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090975589433

========================================

Pontifex is a symphonic black/death metal band based in Orlando, Florida, formed in 2024. Known for their theatrical soundscapes and intense live performances, they blend the ferocity of black metal with symphonic elements, creating a dark, cinematic experience.

The band was founded by guitarist and flutist Kaleb Daniels, whose classical training and love for extreme metal shaped Pontifex’s unique sound. Despite being relatively new, they’ve already made waves by winning the Florida Wacken Battle, earning them a spot on the radar of metal fans nationwide.

Pontifex is currently unsigned but gaining momentum with an upcoming album titled Covenant, set to release in Fall 2025. Their music explores themes of mysticism, inner conflict, and spiritual decay, often delivered through layered instrumentation and haunting melodies.

Lyric Video – From The Pale Mist – https://youtu.be/srVAty5dWkc

https://www.facebook.com/pontifexmetal

========================================

Prime Prophecy is a six-piece progressive metal band based in Brooklyn, New York, blending European influences with symphonic, melodic, and modern metal elements. Known for emotionally driven soundscapes and vivid storytelling, the band creates music that resonates with both heart and mind, bridging genres and pushing the boundaries of contemporary metal.

Drawing from real-life experiences and deep introspection, Prime Prophecy’s signature sound combines layered arrangements, intricate lyrics, and powerful melodies that invite listeners to explore the human experience from new angles.

Over the course of two decades, Prime Prophecy has earned a reputation for both studio excellence and high-impact live performances. Their visual storytelling comes to life through music videos such as “End of the Beginning” and “Memories From the Past.” In 2011, their single “Viking”—commissioned for heavyweight boxer Mariusz Wach ahead of his world title fight—highlighted the band’s versatility and cultural reach.

2025 marks Prime Prophecy’s 20th anniversary—a milestone celebrating their creative evolution and lasting impact on the metal scene. Career highlights include a finals appearance at the Emergenza Festival (Webster Hall, NYC), and a strong run through the 2024 Wacken Battle of the Bands, where the band earned second place in the U.S. National Finals.

Looking ahead, Prime Prophecy is preparing to compete once again in Wacken Battle 2025, with the opportunity to take the stage at Germany’s legendary Wacken Open Air Festival.

Fueled by passion, innovation, and a relentless drive to connect, Prime Prophecy continues to forge new paths with a progressive, symphonic, and deeply human approach to metal.

Music Video – Memories From The Past – https://youtu.be/-OuallkE_-4

https://www.primeprophecy.com/

========================================

What’s Wrong is a Seattle-based metalcore band that emerged in early 2018. Their music blends elements of post-hardcore and progressive metal, delivering a dynamic and intense sound. The band’s lineup has evolved over time, but they have consistently been active in the local music scene, performing at venues like El Corazon, The Funhouse, and Real Art Tacoma. Their live performances have featured collaborations with bands such as Sleep Signals, Fauvism, and Groundfeeder.

Music Video – Singularity – https://youtu.be/EE2hz8npXDI

https://solo.to/whatswrongband

About WMBU:

For the last 6 years of battles (2017-2019, 2022, 2023, 2024), Wacken Metal Battle USA has hosted battles across the country to send one independent metal band to perform at the world’s largest metal festival, Wacken Open Air in Wacken, Germany. 2019 saw the festival celebrate its 30th anniversary, but due to COVID, the 2020 and 2021 editions were both canceled. As the metal community regains its strength, Wacken Open Air 2025 will be the 34th edition of the festival and will be held from July 30th – August 2nd. The 2025 event is already sold out with a line-up that includes Machine Head, Saltatio Mortis, Papa Roach, Gojira, Apocalyptica, Saxon, Within Temptation, Dimmu Borgir, Ministry, and many more. Details here.

Wacken Metal Battle USA is part of an international competition that sees bands from across the country battle each other for the chance to win their spot among 30 other countries’ champions, and represent the USA in an international battle of the bands at the world’s largest outdoor metal festival: Wacken Open Air. The battles have been hosted at the festival for over a decade and give independent bands the opportunity to showcase their talents to an international audience, along with the chance to win multiple prizes.

How it works:
Participating cities will host qualifying rounds plus a city final organized by a local city concert promote,r where one band will move forward to the American national final (date and city to be determined). The winner of the national final will move on to perform at the Wacken Open Air 2024 and compete against the winners of 30 other countries in a final global battle. All bands will be judged during battle rounds by respected local music industry representatives.

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

– 30 –

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

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
Instagram @AsherMedia
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0 Rockshots Records – RIMMAR Second Single “Unreal” Off New Album “Raises” Out July 2025

June 11, 2025
by Asher
· Music News · Rimmar (Rockshots Records)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 11, 2025

RIMMAR Second Single “Unreal” Off New Album “Raises” Out July 2025

“It’s a dream come true, lasting for years. Now everything can begin!”. With these words, Marco Rinaldi announced the official debut of Rimmar‘s album “Raises”, his visionary solo project, to be released via Rockshots Records on July 4th, 2025. Today, that journey continues with the release of the second single called “Unreal,” now available on all digital platforms, accompanied by a Visualizer.

Listen to “Unreal” on all platforms – http://lnk.to/u4oDJEXZ
Watch the official visualizer – https://youtu.be/KxbLQZ3guNU

Like the entire upcoming album “Raises“, “Unreal” is entirely written, composed, and arranged by Rinaldi himself. It blends the power of classic, progressive, and industrial metal with disco and electronic elements, forging a sound that is as immersive as it is distinctive. While “Planet Mars” introduced the conceptual tone of the album—a journey through time, rebirth, and transcendence—”Unreal” adds a new emotional layer, exploring purification and transformation through a rich sonic landscape.

As the band explains, “The water motif, present and massive in the economy of the album, has a purifying connotation in the world of Unreal.” The track flows with melodic density and thematic intensity, evoking a submerged world of introspection and liberation. It’s another step forward in the evolution of “Raises” and a perfect representation of the album’s symbolic ascent—of raising the volume, the awareness, and the emotional stakes.

Rimmar is not a conventional band but a one-man artistic endeavor shaped entirely by Marco Rinaldi. His creative process begins with a riff or rhythm, eventually evolving into fully orchestrated arrangements through the use of synths, pads, and layered textures. His lyrics draw inspiration from readings, philosophical thought, and vivid dreams, always serving the music rather than leading it. As Rinaldi says, “The word is a servant of music in my case.”

The album “Raises” features a cast of exceptional guest performers from the Italian metal scene. Among them, Fabio Lione (Rhapsody of Fire, Angra) appears on two tracks (“Mighty Messenger” and “Vortex”), along with Kyo Calati (MindAheaD), Marco Andreotti (Imagine Dragons tribute), Mattia Fagiolo (White Thunder, Dragonhammer) and Alessandro Cola (Eldritch)—each lending their voice and energy to the project.

On stage, Rimmar becomes a full live band composed of experienced musicians from the Italian scene, delivering performances that merge metal’s impact with the visual and rhythmic elements of electronic dance.

With “Planet Mars” and “Unreal“, Rimmar marks the first two milestones of an ambitious musical vision—emotional, genre-defying, and unapologetically bold.

ALBUM PRE-ORDER: https://rockshots.eu/products/rimmar-raises

First Single “Planet Mars”

LISTEN: https://lnk.to/heoLct
VIDEO: https://youtu.be/O2JwJ8UtSO4

Track Listing:
1. Unreal (feat. Mattia Fagiolo)
2. Mighty Messenger (feat. Fabio Lione)
3. These Ruins (feat. Marco Bertuccelli)
4. 8th Sin (feat. Marco Andreotti)
5. Planet Mars (feat. Mattia Fagiolo)
6. Vortex (feat. Fabio Lione)
7. Queen of the Gold (feat. Marco Bertuccelli)
8. Cruel Summer (feat. Kyo Elisa Proietti)
9. Raises

Rimmar Line Up:
Marco Rinaldi: Guitars
Tommy Pellegrini: Rhythm Guitars
Marco Moretti: Drums
Alessandro Cola: Bass Guitar

More Info:

– https://rockshots.eu/

– https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063487690785

– https://www.instagram.com/rimmar_official/

– 30 –

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0 Canada’s DOLL Returns From The Dead with Single Cover “Smoke on The Water” and New EP “Better Days, Different Times” Out July 2025

June 11, 2025
by Asher
· DOLL · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 11, 2025

Canada’s DOLL Returns From The Dead with Single Cover “Smoke on The Water” and New EP “Better Days, Different Times” Out July 2025

After a lengthy hiatus, Canadian alternative rock band Doll announces their return with “Better Days, Different Times”, a new EP set for release on July 18th, 2025. The announcement comes alongside the premiere of their first single, a unique take on Deep Purple‘s “Smoke on the Water”, marking the band’s first new material in over a decade. They comment on the single:

“After seeing all the fires and the destruction that happened in 2024, there was this need to bring forward our version of the song. We updated the lyrics to match how the disasters have made us feel, and musically, we have always wanted to try a more doom-inspired vibe, and this song let us express ourselves in a raw and emotional way.”

The Ottawa-based quartet, known for their gritty, unfiltered indie sound, last released “The Ragdoll Diaries” in 2011, following their 2009 debut “Inside The Dollhouse”. Their return represents a significant evolution in both sound and approach, incorporating new collaborators and instruments while maintaining the raw, honest edge that has defined Doll since their inception.

The new material showcases a more mature sound while retaining the band’s signature intensity. Core songwriting duo Christina and Pete have expanded their creative process, bringing in local Ottawa musicians and even a cellist to add depth and new textures to their established sound. Doll is recommended for fans of Nobro, SoftCult, Amyl and the Sniffers, and The Pretty Reckless.

Watch and listen to the music video for Doll‘s cover of Deep Purple’s “Smoke on the Water” at https://youtu.be/cynliYX-Djk

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3FPB3oZ

EP-pre-order (out July 18th) – https://doll.bandcamp.com/

Track Listing:
1. Bleeding – 4:32
2. Shark Bait – 3:07
3. Smoke on the Water – 4:26
4. Scene Dream – 4:28
5. Ends Like This – 3:24
6. Goodbye – 3:27
Album Length: 23:29

Album Credits:
All songs performed by: Doll
All songs written by: Doll
Produced by: Josh Hart, Jason Jaknunas
Mixed by: Josh Hart
Mastered by: Josh Hart
Album Artwork by: Mark Kidd

Album Lineup
Guitar: Pete Kasper
Guitar, Vocals, Bass: Christina
Drums: Chris Zimmerman – Smoke on the Water,
Josh Hart – All the Rest
Cello: Raphael Weinroth-Browne
Keys: Phil Campbell
Extra Guitars : Athanasios Maravelis

More info: https://www.facebook.com/dollband

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“The Rag Doll Diaries” is the story of a road weary/world weary band with so much to say and share. Its the combination on heartache and despair offered with a hand meant for holding. In other words here is real music for the real world.” – Heavy Metal Time Machine (2013 – The Ragdoll Diaries)

“Doll was conceived as a bridge between punk and rock, a bridge that was fulfilled in the early ’90s by bands like Nirvana and the mid-’90s by Foo Fighters… A good punk band doesn’t write about the joys of picking daisies and Doll is no exception.” – The Whig Standard (Kingston, ON) (2013)

“Doll provides a missing link between punk and rock.” – The Intelligencer (Belleville, ON) (2013)

“The four-piece are definitely reminiscent of the grunge era and have provided a concise four-word biography of the band: “Rock N’ Fucking Roll.” – Exclaim! (2011 – The Ragdoll Diaries)

“One of the most striking aspects of Inside The Dollhouse, after Christina’s whiskey-and-hell voice, is a fictional character by the name of Sally created to carry the songs. A concept completely unexpected given the band’s twentysomething youth, immediately reminiscent of Alice Cooper’s infamous character Steven, introduced on Welcome To My Nightmare in 1975.” – Bravewords (2010 – Inside the Dollhouse)

“The debut from Ottawa’s Doll caught me instantly like a fish on a hook. This is serious music. Dark, intense and magnetic, this is the kind of gritty ’90s grunge that doesn’t fuck around. Fronted by the vocally vicious Christina Kasper, Doll recall an angry and confused era of music devoid of pop but not catchiness. Kasper howls in the vein of Courtney Love and Brodi Dalle, and while the lyrics are simple and not exactly fresh, they are impacting. Songs like “Perfect” deal with trying to live up to society’s standards, while “Sally Lost Her Shoelaces” and “Daddy’s Little Girl” deal with hurt, confusion and heroin against a backdrop of chunky guitars, assaulting drums and badass attitude. Julie-Anne Madore’s backing vocals add a whispered, haunting feel to this record. If the dirty rock’n’roll alone doesn’t reel you in, nothing will.” – Exclaim (2009 – Inside the Dollhouse)

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#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
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