Category: Music News

0 Saskatoon’s DESPITE THE REVERENCE Embodies An Assassin In “Surprise Kill Vanish” Off “Stress Of Evolution” Out April 2023

March 9, 2023
by Asher
· Despite The Reverence · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, Qc – March 9, 2023

Saskatoon’s DESPITE THE REVERENCE Embodies An Assassin In “Surprise Kill Vanish”

New Album “Stress Of Evolution” Out April 14th

Despite The Reverence has been ripping across the Canadian metal scene for over ten years and in that time has done many tours and released four albums. They are continuing to bolster this legacy with a fifth album “Stress Of Evolution” coming out this April. In anticipation, they have been releasing singles on YouTube, and in the spotlight now is the heavy “Surprise Kill Vanish”, which the band explains in detail:

“This track was inspired by the black ops and the assassin’s goal to surprise, kill and then disappear. The main riff was inspired by Lamb Of God but turns into a bluesy hard rock verse riff. The chorus again builds in dynamics and the middle section of the song breaks down into a dark pulsing riff followed by a blues rock style solo mixed with some tapping. The outro of the chorus is interesting as the lyrics become a spoken story over a quieter groove version of the chorus.”

Listen to “Surprise Kill Vanish” via its stream at https://youtu.be/mRf1ub1T8JM

Digital – https://despitethereverence.bandcamp.com, Spotify

One of the band’s primary goals when writing this album was that it is very dynamic, encompassing all elements from heavy to melodic. They have achieved this with a mixture of tempos, styles, and instrumentation. They say that variety is the spice of life and these guys are effortlessly bringing everything under one roof creating unique and interesting compositions that flow together under a common concept.

“Stress Of Evolution” is twelve bloodthirsty tracks that encourage headbanging and mosh pits. No punches are pulled, this one is heavy. It is recommended for fans of Pantera, Tool, and Black Sabbath.

“Stress Of Evolution” comes out on April 14th, 2023.

Previous Music Videos:

“Primate Centurion” – https://youtu.be/0ehkuCbxB-M

“Cyborg” –https://youtu.be/jDKmioxuSsk

“Killing Plebs” – https://youtu.be/tT2KCEXp1Hc

Track Listing:
1. Cyborg – 5:41
2. Khali Yuga – 4:33
3. Surprise Kill Vanish – 4:42
4. Primate Centurion – 6:11
5. Killing Plebs – 3:54
6. Fears Of Our Fathers – 1:45
7. Stress Of Evolution – 5:02
8. Human Obsolete – 4:28
9. Thinning The Herd – 3:19
10 .War Machine – 4:55
11. At My Door Knocks Death – 5:47
12. Disco Death Tech – 4:07
Album Length:

For more info: Facebook.com/despitethereverence | Instagram.com/despitethereverence | Twitter.com/DTRofficialband

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

0 Canada’s MEDEVIL Delve Into A Dense And Proggy Atmosphere With “Pray For Me” Off “Mirror in the Darkness” Out April 2023

March 8, 2023
by Asher
· Medevil · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 8, 2023

Canada’s MEDEVIL Delve Into A Dense And Proggy Atmosphere With “Pray For Me”

New Album “Mirror in the Darkness” Out April 2023

L-R – Brett Gibbs (Guitar) | Eric Wesa (Bass) | Liam Collingwood (Vocals) | Chris Malcolmson (Drums) | Gary Cordsen (Guitar)

Photo Credit: Matthew Collingwood

Chilliwack, BC, Canada’s Medevil is gearing up to release their second album “Mirror in the Darkness” in April and the 2015 Wacken Battle Canada finalists couldn’t be more pleased to show off their updated sound. This album is also bittersweet, it is dedicated to drummer Chris Malcolmson who, since recording, has passed away. The latest single off this progressive and adventurous new album is “Pray for Me” presented with a visualizer video. The band digs into the slower and moodier song:

“It’s a slower-paced, moodier song with a dense atmosphere and spacious chord progressions that give Liam room to shine on the vocals. The lyrics portray a person who is building walls around them, keeping others out, and not wanting to deal with the world. “Pray for Me” is one of the more accessible tracks on the album, with a driving groove and lush production. Featuring dual guitar solos and biting vocal harmonies over a soaring chorus section that will definitely get stuck in your head.”

“Pray for Me” came out of a jam session between guitarist Brett Gibbs and Malcolmson, while it’s highly accessible, they juxtaposed that accessibility with dark tones and Drop-C tuning. They focused on getting a densely layered soundscape, and since the demo had the best production while writing, they also used it as a template for producing the rest of the album, which they mostly did amongst themselves.

Angry and atmospheric and at times soothing and thought-provoking, “Pray For Me” is recommended for fans of Baroness, Metallica, and Mastodon.

Listen to “Pray For Me” via its premiere on Metal-Rules HERE.

“Mirror in the Darkness” comes out on April 7, 2023.

Album pre-order with an immediate download of “The Signal” at https://medevil.bandcamp.com

Album teaser – https://youtu.be/ljUlC7DPt40

Previous Singles:

Lyric Video – Among Thieves – https://youtu.be/sC55M5Cy-3M

Stream – The Signal- https://youtu.be/1Uv350l-UBQ

Upcoming Events:
March 11 – Bully’s Studio – New Westminster, BC – w/ Hem Netjer, Thirteen Goats – Info
March 24 – Chilliwack, BC – Flashback Brewing Co. (Album Listening Party)
April 13 – Fox Cabaret – Vancouver, BC – Hyperspace MetalFest – w/ Riot City, Greyhawk, Atavistia, Hyloxalus, Zack Brannon – Info
June 9 – The Wise – Vancouver, BC w/ Iron Kingdom

Track Listing:
1. Dead Before Birth (6:18)
2. Among Thieves (5:00)
3. Pray for Me (6:35)
4. The Signal (7:22)
5. Smoke and Mirrors (1:48)
6. Weight of the Crown (4:18)
7. Mirror in the Darkness (8:31)
8. Gateways (2:41)
9. Veiled (3:56)
10. No Peace in Rest (9:23)
Album Length: 55:58

Album Recording Lineup:
Liam Collingwood – Vocals
Gary Cordsen – Lead Guitar
Brett Gibbs – Rhythm Guitar, Lead Guitar & Backup Vocals
Eric Wesa – Bass & Backup Vocals
Chris Malcolmson – Drums

For more info: Facebook.com/medevilband | Twitter.com/MedevilMusic | YouTube | Instagram.com/medevilofficial

About: Medevil is a highly energetic, fast-paced metal band known for its tight songwriting, intense stage presence, and roaring vocals. They are one of the few metal bands coming out of Chilliwack BC and hold that title proud as they have earned much praise and respect since their inception in 2014. As one of the 6 national finalists of the 2015 Wacken Metal Battle Canada, they are becoming more and more renowned throughout the country; their fame attaining them a following in their local town and across through to Vancouver.

Their music could be described as “power thrash” with half of their set being chorus-driven, and the other half focusing on blistering fast riffs. Influences for the band include Iron Maiden, Megadeth, and Metal Church. Their fast but catchy songs keep the crowd chanting throughout the set, and leave them wanting more. Liam Collingwood, the band’s singer, keeps the band image in theme with the songs while on stage and will wear thematic outfits when the mood demands it.

The band was founded on January 13, 2014, by Eric Wesa (bass), as well as brothers Liam (vocals) and Ross Collingwood (drums). It only took two months after the band’s inception before the boys found the ultimate guitar duo they were looking for, Gary Cordsen and Brett Gibbs. Once the lineup was solidified, they wasted no time performing shows and begin their musical journey. As a band, Medevil has two common goals; to explore their musical talents, and continue performing live for their fast-growing fanbase.

– 30 –

“Perfectly situated to please fans of classic heavy metal, Conductor Of Storms is very strong debut from the young Medevil.” – The Monolith (2016)

“Rejoice metalheads! Chiliwackian power thrashers, Medevil, has created a top-notch debut full-length album entitled Conductor Of Storms”. – Bravewords (2016)

“Play it loud, play it fast as heavy metal world has found another new soldier to carry on the flag in the form of “Medevil”” – Planet Caravan (2016)

“Conductor of Storms is one of the most complete, fully-formed and damn near perfect debut albums I’ve ever heard from a young heavy metal band. Tracks like Escape – a blustering, no-holds-barred mashup of Metal Church, Megadeth and Overkill – are just so mature, so faultlessly executed and so, well, heavy metal, it beggars belief that they are not being delivered by a band that’s been in the game for thirty years.” – Sentinel Daily (2016)

“Riding out of the cold wastes of western Canada on warhorses of steel comes Medevil with their amazing, self-released debut album Conductor of Storms. Bruising Traditional Heavy Metal is what these guys play and they play it well. Monstrous riffs and pounding, organic drums underscore the powerful vocals and intricate solos. The band has a taste for things epic, so no love songs or cliché odes to the Metal lifestyle here.” – Metal Crypt (2016)

0 NECRONOMICON EX MORTIS Announces Horror Drenched Debut EP and Single “Nocturnal”

March 8, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Necronomicon Ex Mortis

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 8, 2023

NECRONOMICON EX MORTIS Announces Horror-Drenched Debut EP and Single “Nocturnal”

Top – Michael Bala – Guitar, Manuel Barbarà – Guitar
Bottom – Yusuf Rashid – Bass, Craig Schmul – Vocals, Joey Ferretti – Drums

Chicago, USA’s Necronomicon Ex Mortis is a bubbling cauldron of 80’s horror movies, the 80s shred goods, modern production, and tight thrash metal. They are gearing up to release their debut self-titled album which is intended to transport listeners into a VHS tape of campy horror and aggressive riffs. The single “Nocturnal” is a combination of guitarist Michael Nystrom Bala’s favorite thrash riffs and follows the classic plot line about murdering teenagers at a summer camp. The band details the track:

““Nocturnal” was the result of an experiment on Mike’s part to write a more mid-tempo thrash song. He wanted to have a relatively interesting song structure with very little repetition (except for the chorus). He also decided to challenge himself in the studio by improvising the guitar solo, which he recorded in a single take.”

Encapsulating all the best that horrors have to offer, from old school horror movies and games and H.P. Lovecraft, Necronomicon Ex Mortis introduce their bloody music with gusto in hope that it will worm its way into the brains of metal fans around the world.

Necronomicon Ex Mortis was formed out of extreme love for 90s death metal and 80s shred. The idea came to be when Bala called some of his best friends from Berklee and used a combination of pestering, begging, and trickery to get them to play metal with him.

This EP acts as a trailer for their music, a taste of the feature-length that is on the horizon, and a small sampling of what is the gory good time that awaits in the future. It is recommended for fans of Black Dahlia Murder, Obscura, and Arsis.

Watch and listen to “Nocturnal” via its lyric video premiere on Slam Worldwide YouTube channel – https://youtu.be/fQ7Ski78NOQ

Digital – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/necronomiconexmortis/nocturnal

The debut self-titled EP is due out March 31st, 2023, and is available for pre-order at Necronomiconexmortis.bandcamp.com.

Lyric Video – “Celestial Tomb” – https://youtu.be/gWSmqWpGVCI

Digital – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/necronomiconexmortis/celestial-tomb

Track Listing:
1. Celestial Tomb (4:35)
2. Earth Cancer (4:22)
3. Nocturnal (4:00)
4. The Burning (4:59)
EP Length: 17:58

For more info: Necronomiconexmortisband.com | Facebook | Instagram.com/necronomiconexmortisband

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0 Rockshots Records – Take A Motorcycle Ride w/ BAD BONES New Video “Wanderers & Saints” Off New Album “Hasta El Final!” Out March 2023

March 8, 2023
by Asher
· Bad Bones (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 8, 2023

Rockshots Records – Take A Motorcycle Ride w/ BAD BONES New Video “Wanderers & Saints”

New Album “Hasta El Final!” Out March 2023

Photo Credit – Federica Bagagiolo – Hellucination Photography

Time to kickstart your motorcycle and take a ride with Bad Bones and their next music video for the single “Wanderers & Saints” in support of their sixth album “Hasta El Final!” due out March 17th, 2023 via Rockshots Records.

“Free, without rules, we abandon this society, to live on the margins, aware of the things we will miss, but proud of the choices made, an intro reminiscent of The Police, a song that flies away fast, light and powerful, perhaps the most “modern” song that Bad Bones have ever written.” adds the band.

Influenced by NWOBHM to the LA street rock scene, Bad Bones was formed in 2007. The band has made a name for themselves with tours across Europe along with making the move from Italy to LA in 2009 to make a foothold in the USA until returning to their home country in 2010. Over the years, the band has consistently toured the USA and Europe with appearances at events such as the Hollywood Rock Convention, Italian Gods of Metal, and Metalitalia Festival along with supporting bands like Steel Panther, Hardcore Superstar, Crucified Barbara, Entombed, Gotthard, Crazy Lixx, Strana Officina and more.

True Metal Magazine named “Bad Bones” the Best Hard Rock band of the year for 2010 along with Metal Hammer Italy awarding “Demolition Derby” the Best Album of The Year for 2016.

A musical amalgamation of blues, punk, classic rock, and heavy metal, Bad Bones’ latest offering “Hasta El Final!” is a powerful record, that shakes your bones and must be listened to in one go, in its entirety, just like taking a shot of whiskey, throw it down and then enjoy it while it warms your guts.

“The sound of the band has changed since the beginning, the first album “Small-town Brawlers” was very raw, it sounded almost punk in some ways, in 2012 when Max Malmerenda joined the band, who has an amazing and very melodic voice, a process had begun that led us to write albums more on the 80s hard rock side like “Demolition Derby” in 2016, today, with the return of Mekk we have found a more powerful sound and we have several songs that we could define as heavy metal. We want Hasta El Final! to hit you like a punch in the face, we had this in mind, make it compact and powerful, we didn’t use samples, nor quantized/triggered fake drums, everything was played live, even the overdubs were kept to a minimum, and we wanted to keep the fierce spirit of our first albums.” says the band.

Making uncompromising rock that is meant to be loud in volume and make ya sweat in the pit, Bad Bones give listeners classic old-school rock n’ roll fun. Their lyrics reflect the things they see and hear, from memories, and life experiences, but also from movies or places they’ve been, there have many sources of inspiration that fans can clearly relate to.

Album pre-order – https://bit.ly/HastaElFinalCD

Track Listing:
1. Bandits – 3:13
2. Behind The Liar’s Eyes – 3:58
3. Rattlesnake – 3:54
4. Wanderers & Saints – 3:43
5. Sand On My Teeth – 3:58
6. Libertad – 4:45
7. To Kill Somebody – 3:33
8. Home – 2:14
Album Length: 29:21

Album Credits:
Recorded @ Rima Maia Studio – Dronero ( CN) – December 2022 by Riccardo Paravicini
Produced by Bad Bones
Mix & Mastering by Riccardo Parravicini @ Rima Maia Studio
Words : Steve Balocco
Music : Bad Bones
Cover Artwork: Christian Wallin
Dedicated to the memory of Andrea “Benny” Bernini a true rocker! Miss ya!

Bad Bones is:
Mekk Borra – Vocals & Guitars
Steve Balocco – Bass & Vocals
Lele Balocco – Drums

Discography:
2009 – Smalltown Brawlers (Red Pony Records)
2010 – A Family Affair ( Nadir Music)
2012 – Snakes And Bones (Bagana Records)
2016 – Demolition Derby (Sliptrick Records)
2018 – High Rollers (Sliptrick Records)
2023 – Hasta El Final! (Rockshots Records)

For more info: Rockshots.eu | Badbones.it | Facebook.com/badbonesband | Instagram.com/badbones_official

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“Rough, Rude, dirty… simply irresistible!!! Bad Bones know how to Rock !!” – Metal Maniac

“Bad Bones are on a mission for the god of rock’n’roll!” -Rockandmetalinmyblood.it

“Bad Bones have harnessed all the great sounds of the 80’s and brought it into the present. These guys just have that element that instantly grabs people and gets you going. They have the high gain distorted guitar sound with catchy riffs full of hard rock and blues. The leads are flashy and tight as well. They have a great rhythm section and every song is packed full of melody. They have a sound that is reminiscent of Trixter, Whitesnake, Def Leppard and Mr. Big, This album is 100% awesome form start to finish. Demolition Derby is already top of my play list and with one listen it will be on the top of yours. “The Dirty Room – USA)

“Bad Bones liefert sauber eingespielten, klassischen Hardrock amerikanischer Art. Knackige Gitarren, solider halbhoher Gesang, satter Groove und dieser nicht unerhebliche 80er-Touch sorgen für Stimmung sowie Gefühlswallungen in Richtung Sunset Strip. Man kann die Herren getrost zwischen rockigen Trixter, Hardline, Firehouse und Whitesnake platzieren – und selbst dann findet sich immer noch die eine oder andere Truppe, die man ebenfalls mit dem Stil der Italiener in Verbindung bringen könnte” – Classic Rock Deutschland

” … Over the years, the Bad Bones have become the nicest thing of hard rock of our country” – Simone Sacco – Metal Hammer Italy
—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780 | jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations | Instagram @AsherMedia | Tweet @AsherMedia
(Rockshots Records, Extreme Metal Music, Armstrong MF, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Toledo DeathFest)

0 Canada’s One Man Melodic Black Metal MALICE DIVINE Video “Usurping The Paragon” Is Ready To Instigate The Mosh Pit At 218 BPM

March 6, 2023
by Asher
· Malice Divine · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 6, 2023

Canada’s One Man Melodic Black Metal MALICE DIVINE Video “Usurping The Paragon” Is Ready To Instigate The Mosh Pit At 218 BPM

New Album “Everlasting Ascendancy” Out Now!

Pictured – Malice Divine (created by Ric Galvez)

Canada’s one-man melodic black metal Malice Divine helmed by guitarist Ric Galvez is ready to get fans going and prepped themselves for a live lineup coming soon!

Today, get ready for a quick smashing assault at 218 BPM with the latest video for “Usurping The Paragon” off the recently unleashed sophomore album “Everlasting Ascendancy”.

“The fastest song on the album, as well as the fastest Malice Divine song yet. This one will incite some insane mosh pits when performed live. This is also the most aggressive Malice Divine song yet as well. It has 3 guitar solos, the first of which was improvised in the studio. Lyrically the song is about becoming the best at what you do.” adds Galvez.

Watch and listen to “Usurping The Paragon” via its premiere on Slam Worldwide YouTube channel – https://youtu.be/ypGQNpNQllg

“Everlasting Ascendancy” is the second album from Canada’s one-man black metal project Malice Divine, following up their much acclaimed self-titled debut in 2021. Able to work freely without creative impediments, Ric Galvez has poured his passion into this album and it shows. A lot of the songs have complex song structures, but there is also a lot of catchiness and melody to make this album a very memorable listen, nonetheless. He shares his excitement for the release:

“I am incredibly excited to finally have the sophomore Malice Divine album “Everlasting Ascendancy” released into the world! With this album, I am aiming to have the listener feel empowered and inspired to go after what they want in life and not settle for less. The message of Malice Divine is one of empowerment and that message can be found throughout all 8 tracks on “Everlasting Ascendancy” in some shape or form. I poured my heart and soul into this album, which will be apparent both musically and lyrically. Despite the music obviously being extreme metal, that doesn’t stop me from writing about very personal matters. All in all, I am incredibly proud of this album, and I can’t wait for everyone to hear it!”

“Everlasting Ascendancy” is a dynamic experience while also being an overall more aggressive album than the first one, especially in the vocal delivery. There are still plenty of melody and classical guitar sections, which is a major part of Malice Divine’s sound. The solos on this album are even more virtuosic than before as well.

All songs on “Everlasting Ascendancy” were written by Galvez who enlisted session drummer Dylan Gowan (Vesperia, Birds of Bellwoods, Co-Host We’re Talkin Drums, Overkill Reviewer Banger TV) to hammer them out. The album was produced and mixed by Tyler Williams (Sludgehammer, Monolithic Productions) and mastered by Jamie King (Between the Buried and Me, The Contortionist, Scale The Summit). The album artwork was done by Eka Saputra (Psychopart).

Malice Divine intends to deliver a listening experience that is highly memorable and one that will leave the listener feeling empowered and wanting to listen to it again and again. They are recommended for fans of Watain, Thulcandra, and Dissection.

“Everlasting Ascendancy” was released on January 27, 2023.

Digital album at https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/malicedivine/everlasting-ascendancy-2

Guitar Playthrough – Apparitions of Conquest – https://youtu.be/sIdY9G2N4eA

Guitar Playthrough – Silenced Judgement – https://youtu.be/1txFo60rUKI

Lyric Video – Everlasting Ascendancy https://youtu.be/-F-J7OKMskA

Fun Fact – Ric Galvez (Malice Divine) has appeared on Banger TV’s Shredders of Metal (Seasons 1 and 2).

Track Listing:
1. Silenced Judgement (4:10)
2. Apparitions Of Conquest (8:22)
3. Usurping The Paragon (6:07)
4. At One With Infinity (6:06)
5. Parasitic Demons (5:39)
6. Reclaimed Strength (5:31)
7. Illusions Of Fragmentation (8:39)
8. Everlasting Ascendancy (8:10)
Album Length: 52:44

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Malice Divine
• All songs written by: Ric Galvez
• Produced by: Tyler Williams
• Mixed by: Tyler Williams
• Mastered by: Jamie King
• Album Artwork by: Eka Saputra (Psychopart)
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Album Band Lineup:
Ric Galvez – Vocals/Guitars/Bass
Dylan Gowan – Drums (Session)

For more info: Facebook.com/malicedivineband | Youtube.com/malicedivine | Instagram.com/malicedivineofficial

About: Toronto, Canada’s Malice Divine is a solo project conceived by Ric Galvez, who had always had the dream of being the leader of his own project. He wanted to expand beyond being known as just a lead guitarist, into also being known as a songwriter, vocalist, and frontman. Ric has played in local bands previously and was a contestant on Banger TV’s Shredders of Metal Seasons 1 & 2.

Ric has a major in music from York University, and through Malice Divine he shows off his vocal, guitar, and bass prowess. His lyrics are inspired by psychology, spirituality, as well as personal experiences that involve the overcoming of obstacles and hardships, using the resulting verses as a form of empowerment.

The second offering from Malice Divine, entitled “Everlasting Ascendancy”, will be released in early 2023. Once again it features Ric Galvez on Vocals, Guitars, & Bass, as well as Dylan Gowan (Vesperia, Banger TV) playing session drums. Malice Divine is also currently transitioning from being a solo project into being a band effort, and is set to start performing live in 2023. What people can expect from seeing Malice Divine live is highly aggressive black and death metal-inspired music, with shreddy and virtuosic guitar solos that add a melodic layer that isn’t common in the genre.

Malice Divine’s sophomore album “Everlasting Ascendancy” is set to be released on January 27th, 2023.

– 30 –

“This is one of the first albums to come out this year and it is this strong. So as we gather our thoughts for AOTY 2022, an early contender for 2023 kicked this year off right! This album is essential. You’re welcome!” – Metal-Rules

“Loud, fast, and aggressive but with a shed load of melody. Ric Galvez, I salute you and take a bow to Dylan Gowan for a world-class performance and producer Tyler Williams for capturing the immense sounds. My only criticism would be that some of the songs are maybe a tad too long but that’s only because I probably don’t have the stamina I once did. The songs are well constructed and although the vocals may be an acquired taste, they fit the music. This is a killer album – so if you like melodic death metal – put your hand in your pocket! You won’t be disappointed.” – My Global Mind

“Slaves of shred will have another reason to bow down in 2023 because Toronto-based Malice Divine will be releasing their second album Everlasting Ascendancy on January 27th. As lots of people already know, the man behind this project — Ric Galvez — has made a name for himself as a guitar virtuoso, and if anything, he elevates his skill to even greater heights on Everlasting Ascendancy. But as the album’s title track that we’re premiering today (through a lyric video) demonstrates quite convincingly, the songs aren’t just excuses to show off, but are instead well-crafted pieces that display dynamism, inspiring melodies, and the kind of hard-charging ferocity that creates primal reactions.” – NoCleanSinging

“The solos and those vocals just emit black metallic sparks and they eat into my ear canals. Watain and Dissection merge here with his own style. An explosive mix does the honors and every track is a feast. “Eight songs long” always surprising variety. A very successful album. A uniform porridge was absolutely not touched here. The cover is like an invitation card. “Come and listen to this beast”. A great start to my first review of the year.” – Hellfire-Magazin

“Everlasting Ascendancy” is a good melodic thrash/death album in the tradition of Carcass, Children Of Bodom or Arch Enemy, punchy, energetic, pleasant and well executed, driven by a devastating passion… A good record whose dark and varied ambiences, cavalcades punctuated by moments of bravery make the pleasure born. The essential is there!” – Music Waves

“Malice Divine hop back and forth between coming off like a death metal band doing covers of stuff they’ve recorded as a black metal band and coming off like a black metal band doing covers of stuff they’re recorded as a death metal band.”- Decibel Magazine

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

0 STRIKER Posts Studio Update – Enter Studio To Work With Producer Josh Schroeder (Lorna Shore, Tallah, King 810) For 7th Full-Length

March 6, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Striker

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 6, 2023

STRIKER Posts Studio Update – Enter Studio To Work With Producer Josh Schroeder (Lorna Shore, Tallah, King 810) For 7th Full-Length

L-R – Tim Brown – Guitar, Pete Klassen – Bass, – Dan Cleary – Vocals, Jono Webster – Drums, – John Simon Fallon – Guitar
Photo Credit: Dana Zuk

Canadian shredders STRIKER are excited to share the news that they have entered the studio to work on their seventh album with producer Josh Schroeder (Lorna Shore, Tallah, King 810). The yet-to-be-titled album follows the band’s singles “Strange Love” (2022) and “Death Wish” (2021), which will be featured on the record that follows their Juno Award-winning self-released full-length “Play to Win” (2018) (Record Breaking). The forthcoming album will also feature the band’s latest lineup addition of long-time friend and guitarist John Simon Fallon (The Order of Chaos).

The band comments:

“We have arrived at shred central in Midland, MI. We’ll be spending the next 5 weeks WITH Josh Schroeder who will essentially be our 6th band member for the creative process. We are stoked to get into the studio with HIM. We are looking to do something different sonically with this album, more extreme, more over the top, and more punishing and we think he’s the right man for the job. It’s going to be a bit of an experiment for us but we are ready to push out of our comfort zone and lay down some caveman riffs and bigger hooks. Stay tuned for more updates and don’t forget to check out our Patreon for exclusive content!”

In additional news, STRIKER is confirmed to perform this summer in Europe at Bloodstock Festival in the UK and Headbangers Open Air in Germany. Canadian fans can also check out STRIKER at this year’s Hyperspace Metal Festival in Vancouver on April 14th at The Fox Cabaret.

Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/strikermetal

Blending classic heavy metal, hard rock, and 80’s hair metal, Striker has been making shredtacular anthems since 2007. The band has toured multiple times across Europe and North America along with festival appearances at 70,000 Tons of Metal, Bang Your Head Festival (Germany), and more to add to their almost 1000 shows performed in their decade-plus career. The band has been honoured with multiple Best Album awards in their home country of Canada from the JUNO Awards, Western Canadian Music Awards, and the Edmonton Music Awards. Since their inception, Striker has released six studio albums Eyes in the Night (2010, Iron Kodex), Armed to The Teeth (2012, Napalm), City of Gold (2014, Napalm), Stand in the Fire (2016, Record Breaking), Striker (2017, Record Breaking), and Play to Win (2018, Record Breaking).

For more info:
Striker-metal.com
Facebook.com/strikermetal
Twitter.com/StrikerMetal
Instagram.com/strikermetal

– 30 –

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0 Hyperspace MetalFest (Vancouver, BC) Adds GRAVESHADOW To 2023 Full Lineup w/ Exmortus, Striker, Riot City, Judicator and more!

March 6, 2023
by Asher
· Hyperspace Metal Festival · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 6, 2022

Hyperspace MetalFest (Vancouver, BC) Adds GRAVESHADOW To 2023 Lineup w/ Exmortus, Striker, Riot City, Judicator and more!

April 13 – 15 – Vancouver, BC, Canada

HMF Lineup Spotify Playlist – https://spoti.fi/3MpKpW6

Canada’s premier melodic and power metal festival HYPERSPACE is proud to announce Sacramento, CA symphonic metal Graveshadow to its 2023 lineup in replacement of Immortal Guardian, who unfortunately are unable to make this year’s event being held on April 13-15 in Vancouver, BC at The Fox Cabaret and Rickshaw Theatre.

Graveshadow mixes symphonic/gothic metal with elements and influences from a variety of styles to create something epic, progressive, melodic, and powerful. The band released their third album, “The Uncertain Hour” in July of last year via M-Theory Audio. It was produced by Miss May I guitarist Justin Aufdemkampe (Clutch, War of Ages) and mastered by Alberto De Icaza (Crobot, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist).

Graveshadow will be joining HMF’s 2023 lineup that includes headliners California melo-death warriors EXMORTUS, Edmonton Juno Award winners, and heavy metal champions STRIKER, along with HMF alumni JUDICATOR and LORDS OF THE TRIDENT, Calgary’s speed demons Riot City, Atlanta power thrashers Paladin, Denver fantasy heroes Celestial Wizard along with locals, epic metallers Atavistia, and one-man instrumentalist Zack Brannon among many more for the three-night event. (festival day-by-day schedule listed below).

Festival organizer Joey Hockin of Journeyman Productions adds:

“We’re excited to have our 2023 lineup complete. This fourth year of the fest is going to be another great gathering of metal’s best and upcoming power and prog-influenced bands. We look forward to seeing everyone making the trek to Vancouver this April.”

Tickets are on sale at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/hyperspace-metal-festival-iv-tickets-322242725667

Facebook Event – https://www.facebook.com/events/784033792568691/

Hyperspace Metal Festival 2023 Lineup:

Thursday, April 13th (Fox Cabaret)
Riot City
Greyhawk
Atavistia
Medevil
Hyloxalus
Zack Brannon

Friday, April 14th (Fox Cabaret)
Striker
Traveler
Celestial Wizard
Thousand Arrows

Saturday, April 15th (Rickshaw Theatre)
Exmortus
Judicator
Lords Of The Trident
Paladin
Graveshadow
Lutharo
Hyperia

Highlights of the confirmed bands include American melodic death metal band Exmortus, whose lyrics mostly deal with battles and war along with Striker, one of Canada’s favourite heavy metal shredders and 2020 Juno award winners for Best Metal / Hard Music Album of The Year for their sixth studio album “Play To Win”. Tucson, AZ’s Judicator is returning for their second performance at the festival with their historical-based storytelling metal. They will be supporting their sixth album ‘The Majesty of Decay’ out now via Prosthetic Records.

Over the three editions of Hyperspace Metal Festival, bands from all over the world have come to play power, prog, melodic death, and speed metal on the Canadian West Coast. The festival has presented lineups that have included performances by Into Eternity, Witherfall, Planeswalker, Iron Kingdom, Helion Prime, Ravenous, Crimson Shadows, West of Hell, Judicator, Odinfist, Tanagra, Scythia, Greyhawk, The Order of Chaos, Red Cain, and many more.

To follow updates for Hyperspace Metal Festival 2023, please visit the following links:
Facebook.com/HyperspaceMetalFestival
Instagram.com/HyperspaceMetalFestival

Festival Press Materials Dropbox HERE.

– 30 –

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0 Canada’s PHAETON’s Dramatic Progressive Metal Emerges With Playthrough For Single “Monsoon” Off New Album “Between Two Worlds” Out April 2023

March 3, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Phaeton

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 3, 2023

Canada’s PHAETON’s Dramatic Progressive Metal Emerges With Playthrough For Single “Monsoon”

New Album “Between Two Worlds” Out April 2023

L-R – Colin Righton – Drums & Percussion, Daniel Airth – Lead & Rhythm Guitars, Kevin Thiessen – Lead & Rhythm Guitars, Keyboards, Ferdy Belland – Electric & Fretless Bass
Photo by Julian Bueckert

Phaeton is interplanetary instrumental heavy prog metal hailing from the West coast of Canada. Like 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. Their dramatic music emerges from the void in thrilling bursts and unexpected turns in their second album “Between Two Worlds” and the first single “Monsoon”. The band shares their excitement for the single and what fans can expect:

“Daniel brought this one into the band and proves that he’s the Canadian King of the Killer Riff. After the kickoff crunch riffs set the mood, here comes a spooky halftime riff with a spookier guitar lead on it, and then another Killer Riff in quasi-swung time stabs out of the speakers. If Kevin is Phaeton’s version of a traditional Classical Composer (mind you, one with a 7-string Ibanez), then Daniel is our Classic Metalhead (one with a 7-string Schechter). Whereas Kevin’s songwriting style usually threads a string of different interlocking themes, Daniel knows how to capture the ears of even non-prog listeners by repeating the familiar themes, albeit with slightly different punctuations which are, to use formal musical terminology – Hella Cool.”

Phaeton strives to deliver an attention-focused listening experience. One drenched in joy and wonder and the emotional, visceral release that only prog-metal can deliver. And the lack of lyrical interference only allows the listener the better opportunity to let their imaginations run wild with the music, drifting emotionally away on the solar winds to wherever they wish to soar.

Listeners of Phaeton will find a unique twist on progressive metal, which they define on their own, song after song. They are recommended for fans of Rush, Dream Theater, and King Crimson.

Watch and listen to “Monsoon” via its premiere on Bravewords HERE.

“Between Two Worlds” is due out April 21st, 2023, and available for pre-order at Phaetonband.bandcamp.com

Track Listing:
1. Predestination – 4:57
2. Oceans of Time – 6:44
3. Terra Australis – 4:42
4. Monsoon – 6:06
5. Refraction – 4:48
6. Geomorphic – 4:51
7. Magma Chamber – 6:09
8. Between Two Worlds – 9:21
Album Length: 47:40

For more info: Facebook.com/Phaetonband | Instagram.com/phaetonband | Twitter.com/phaetonband

About: PHAETON was formed in Kimberley, BC in March 2017 by Kevin Thiessen (lead & rhythm guitar), Daniel Airth (lead & rhythm guitar), Colin Righton (drums & percussion), and Ferdy Belland (electric & fretless bass). Combining technically ferocious compositions of modern metal with the ambitious song-arrangement mindset of classic prog-rock, PHAETON (named for the theoretical proto-planet which collided with Ancient Earth during the Primordial Era) stands alone in the wilderness of British Columbia with their unique approach to instrumental prog-metal.

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

Discography
2018 – Self Titled – LP
2023 – Between Two Worlds – LP

– 30 –

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

“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)

“An epic Progressive Metal listening experience.” – Trevor Hatter (BeatRoute Magazine)

“This badass band makes a devastating impact with their high velocity musical assault.” – Time Lord (Progarchy)

“A sparkling, sizzling debut from PHAETON, taking us on a futuristic musical journey, with deep roots in the ancient past.” – Stephen Conrad (Progressive Rock Fanatics)

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
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Facebook @AsherMediaRelations | Instagram @AsherMedia | Tweet @AsherMedia
(Rockshots Records, Extreme Metal Music, Armstrong MF, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Le FestEvil)

0 Out Now! Abaddonia’s Witchy, Occult Tendencies Take Shape On Debut EP “Dawn of the Serpent” + New Music Video For Title Track

March 3, 2023
by Asher
· Abaddonia · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 3, 2023

Out Now! Abaddonia’s Witchy, Occult Tendencies Take Shape On Debut EP “Dawn of the Serpent”

New Music Video For Title Track

L-R – The Reaper – Brendan Luetkenhaus (Guitar), The Possessed – Branden O’Neill (Vocalist), The Plague – Zach Neisius (Guitar), The Wendigo – Billy Jordan (Drums), Not pictured: The Cultist – Isaak Clarkson (Bass)

And so it is written, the dawn of a new era engulfs the horizon. The abyss swallows the Sun, and all its light illuminates. Mortifer, hell-bent on the eradication of all that is unjust and uninspiring, will rise above what remains. The darkness belongs to the new land: Abaddonia. Hailing from the Midwest, USA, this deathcore act got together back in 2019 and after pandemic delays are ready to release their debut EP “Dawn of the Serpent” produced by Chris Wiseman (Shadow of Intent).

“Dawn of the Serpent” is, to an extent, an opening and closing of a chapter for Abaddonia. They had pieces of what remained on this EP back when they started, but thanks to the pandemic, things were indefinitely put on hold. They shifted from a personal-lyric project that focused on personal aspects to embracing that tarot, witchy, dark stuff that they were using their branding for. “Dawn of the Serpent” marks a new horizon beyond what they once viewed as their horizon. They comment:

“We are elated to be unveiling our debut musical compilation “Dawn of the Serpent”. With this, we hope to bring music that can be used interchangeably throughout the day. We hope that people can listen to every single track at their altars, at the gym, at work through their headphones, anything. We want to offer something polished, but still containing some raw elements. Storytelling, but with emotion. This album helped us find our identity, and we hope to accurately tell that story to all of our followers.”

Abaddonia says that they think this is a great starting point for them and that there are definite building blocks rooted in the foundation of this EP that will carry into their more solidified sound as they grow into it. Atmospheric, brooding, and unique “Dawn of the Serpent” offers a wide, but consistent sound that is consumable to a diverse audience, but is also something capable of being held sacred to a particular niche of metal-heads into occult vibes. It is recommended for fans of Lorna Shore, Shadow of Intent, and Aversions Crown.

“Dawn of the Serpent” is now available as of March 3rd, 2023 on all digital platforms at https://linktr.ee/abaddonia and Abaddonia.bandcamp.com

Watch and listen to their new music video for EP title track below.

Track Listing:
1. Horsemen Pt 1- War (ft. Casey Needler) – 4:29
2. Keres – 4:28
3. Holy Water – 3:16
4. Mortifer (ft. Devin Duarte) – 4:27
5. Dawn of the Serpent – 3:30
EP Length: 20:12

EP Credits:
All songs performed by Abaddonia
All songs written by Brendan Luetkenhaus and Chris Wiseman with additional writing from Zach Neisius and Isaak Clarkson
Produced and Mixed by Chris Wiseman
Album artwork by Imperfect design

Recording and Live Lineup:
Brendan Luetkenhaus (Guitar)
Branden O’Neill (Vocalist)
Zach Neisius (Guitar)
Billy Jordan (Drums)
Isaak Clarkson (Bass)

For more info: Facebook.com/Abaddonia-119472886105121 | Instagram.com/abaddoniaband | Twitter.com/AbaddoniaUS

– 30 –

“Abaddonia showcases an eerie atmosphere that builds onto the tension of the tracks.” – New Fury Media

“Tarot cards, broody tunes and a whole lotta fire. What more could you ask for?” – The Musical Misfit

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

0 Israel’s NEOLIA Weave World Music Into Explosive Metal With New Self-Titled Album Out May 2023 + Music Video “Blow The Leaves”

March 3, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Neolia · Uncategorized

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 3, 2023

Israel’s NEOLIA Weave World Music Into Explosive Metal With New Self-Titled Album Out May 2023 + Music Video “Blow The Leaves”

Israel’s Neolia chooses to float in a space where a balance between nirvana and chaos coexists. They create a wild and mystic energy field with their music by incorporating rock/metal with different elements, mostly from Latin and African music. They are releasing their self-titled debut album this coming May 2023 and plan to tour with it internationally while constantly exploring new creative ways to increase their connection with their audience and supporters.

The video for “Blow The Leaves” is now available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/kcsOO7tCf-Y

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/41x1k1j

Musically, the album is a reflection of years of soaking up music of different genres from rock to pop to world music and whatnot. It’s a fusion of bits upon bits of pieces absorbed and processed and then spat out from a personal perspective. In its musical aspect, it’s rock and metal based, but with a twist of African, Latin, Jazz, and ambient that reaches the spectrum of high and low, tender, extreme, and crazy. The band explains the album further:

The way the music combines with the lyrics is parallel in the sense that it doesn’t tell the story that inspired it in a chronological way, but as a puzzle where the character, Alex, reflects upon fractions of his life, from different phases. We don’t know where Alex ends up in his life, but we do know where he has been, and what he goes through in each place. Each track gives us a glimpse into Alex’s life and describes a certain scene, a thought process, or an emotional conflict from childhood to adulthood. He gets shoved to the margins of society, and follows a long and harsh way in search of purpose and communication with the people around him.”

Neolia formed to give to others and to encourage people to come together (A connection between souls). They formed to give showcase their art in a few dimensions, one that’s personal, and spiritual and the other that is musical and expressive.

Recommended listening for fans of The Mars Volta, Sikth, and Mudvayne, the self-titled album was mastered by Howie Weinberg (Metallica, Pantera, Nirvana) an due out on May 5th, 2023.

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

Track Listing:
1. The Shed – 3:44
2. The Shed outro – 0:52
3. Your prophecy – 7:44
4. Dance of violence – 7:10
5. Carried away – 5:49
6. Carried away outro – 1:24
7. Karma – 4:09
8. Karma outro – 0:44
9. Day in day out – 11:06
10. Anchors – 7:14
11. Rise and fall – 5:06
12. Blow the leaves – 7:02
13. A better version of you – 4:53
14. Refahim – 8:00
Album Length: 74:57

For more info: http://www.neoliaband.com | http://www.facebook.com/neoliaband | http://www.instagram.com/neoliaband

– 30 –

“It’s as if Ben’s screams had come straight out of hell tearing the skies in all directions” – Metalist Magazine

“Filled with different time signatures, that incorporate beautiful melodic parts and screams that hit you directly in the center of the stomach” – Radio Ze Rock Magazin

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
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