Category: Music News

0 AS OCEANS DIVIDE New Single “White Noise” Cuts Through The Static To Introduce Canada’s Rising Heavy Force; Debut EP in Memory of Bassist Dale Burrows

June 4, 2026
by Asher
· As Oceans Divide · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 4, 2026

AS OCEANS DIVIDE New Single “White Noise” Cuts Through The Static To Introduce Canada’s Rising Heavy Force

Debut EP in Memory of Bassist Dale Burrows

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

Rising Canadian metalcore unit As Oceans Divide will release their second single, “White Noise,” accompanied by a gripping lyric video, marking the next chapter in the rollout toward their upcoming self‑titled EP, arriving July 9, 2026.

Following the impact of their debut single “Into The Dying Light,” “White Noise” pushes deeper into the emotional and sonic contrasts that define the band’s sound, balancing technical aggression with melodic atmosphere and raw intensity with introspective depth.

“White Noise” captures the internal static that builds when pressure, grief, and unresolved thoughts collide. The track channels the EP’s core themes of struggle, resilience, and confronting what lies beneath the surface rather than burying it.

Musically, the single continues the band’s signature interplay between heaviness and melody, tight, technical riffing paired with dynamic vocals and atmospheric layers, giving the song space to breathe. It’s a natural evolution from “Into The Dying Light,” but with a sharper emotional edge.

The accompanying lyric video amplifies that tension visually, pulling listeners deeper into the EP’s world.

The imagery surrounding “White Noise” ties directly into the EP’s striking artwork: a crest featuring a chained sea serpent wrapped around an anchor, thrashing against a violent ocean backdrop.

The serpent represents emotional weight and the intensity that lives beneath the surface. The chains symbolize restraint, internal conflict, and the pressure of carrying that weight. The anchor reflects both stability and the feeling of being dragged under.

This visual metaphor mirrors the band’s musical identity, a constant push and pull between chaos and control, aggression and melody.

The upcoming self‑titled EP is built around contrast, both lyrically and musically. Each track is crafted as a journey, blending technical, hard‑hitting sections with melodic, atmospheric moments that allow the emotional weight to land fully.

Themes across the EP include internal struggle, loss and resilience, emotional honesty, and confronting what lies beneath the surface. The band’s focus on structure and flow ensures every song feels intentional, immersive, and connected.

As Oceans Divide is a new heavy force rising from Ontario, Canada, formed by longtime friends and veterans of the Canadian metal scene. With roots in Bloodshoteye, Aquila, Odium, Battlesoul, Atria, and more, the band blends early‑2000s metalcore influence with modern precision and emotional depth. The lineup includes Tom Emmans (Vocals), Eric Camilleri (Guitar/Songwriting), Thomas Ireland (Guitar/Production), Matt McGuire(Drums).

The band also honours the memory of bassist Dale Burrows, whose passing in March 2026 profoundly shaped the emotional core of this release.

Their sound is defined by soaring melody, crushing rhythms, harmonized guitars, and a balance of aggression and atmosphere, technical, emotional, melodic, aggressive, immersive.

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

Watch and listen to the lyric video for “White Noise” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GnMcAkJQvCE

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/1kUOZlbHIQ9KtA7Q7NnUPB

First single – “Into The Dying Light” at the following links:

Lyric Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJd_XF61K7Y

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

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

For more info:

https://asoceansdivide.com

https://www.facebook.com/asoceansdivide

https://www.instagram.com/asoceansdivide

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0 Out Now! Montreal Blackened Thrash SHROUD Lifts The Veil To Debut Album “Pax Nocturna”

June 4, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Shroud

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 4, 2026

Out Now! Montreal Blackened Thrash SHROUD Lifts The Veil To Debut Album “Pax Nocturna”

L-R – Justin Cournoyer – Bass, Matteo Conti – Guitar and Vocals, Zack Osiris – Drums, Jordan Barillaro – Guitar

Rising from the shadows of Quebec’s extreme‑metal underground, SHROUD proudly announce the official release of their debut full‑length album, “Pax Nocturna,” available everywhere on June 4th, 2026. A blistering fusion of Blackened Thrash with elements of Death and Melodic metal, the album marks a defining first chapter for one of Montreal’s most intense and uncompromising new acts.

SHROUD began when guitarist/vocalist Matteo Conti approached drummer Zack Osiris (Warsenal) during the height of the COVID‑19 lockdowns. With their previous projects stalled and the music scene frozen, the pair began writing together in Montreal at a time when even leaving the house felt taboo. Despite the restrictions, the creative spark was undeniable. Week after week, riffs and ideas evolved into the earliest form of what would become “Pax Nocturna.”

As the world reopened in 2022, the band solidified with Justin Cournoyer joining on bass, and Jordan Barillaro recruited after filling in for their first show in November 2022. The chemistry was immediate. SHROUD was born, united, focused, and driven.

SHROUD’s sonic identity is rooted in Black and Thrash metal, sharpened by the aggression of Death metal and the atmosphere of Melodic metal. The band describes the album as a rollercoaster, fast, punishing, dynamic, and immersive, yet always unmistakably SHROUD.

Fans of extreme metal will find a record crafted for them. It’s intense, tightly executed, and overflowing with raw energy. Its lyrical depth explores philosophy, anti‑religion, the abyss and the darkest corners of human existence. The overarching concept is Satanic Gnosticism, a rejection of imposed order and corrupt leadership, and an embrace of the chaos from which humanity originates.

“It’s the acknowledgement that we are our own gods and masters. It is peace within the night. It is Pax Nocturna,” adds vocalist/guitarist Matteo Conti.

The cover art draws from the dark fantasy of Yoshitaka Amano, the surreal horror of Zdzisław Beksiński, and the mythic grandeur of The Lord of the Rings. The imagery depicts the four band members in ritualistic worship of Murmur, the Archduke and Lord of Hell, symbolising philosophy, music, and the pursuit of higher consciousness.

On stage, SHROUD deliver a level of intensity, tightness, and emotional ferocity that sets them apart. Their performances blend hate, love, determination, and pure sonic violence, a presence that has already earned them slots alongside Exciter, Midnight, Wraith, Goatwhore, Vitriol, Necrofier, Wormwitch, Spiter, Gudsforladt, Tomarumvoid, Angelus Apatrida, Sorguinazia, and more.

Local Montreal fans can see them perform this Friday, June 5th, for their album release show at Foufounes Electriques with support from Lüger, Katö and Burning Sanctum. More info at https://www.facebook.com/events/1636052210962146

Recommended for fans of Watain, Dissection, Hellripper, Skeletonwitch, and Necrophobic, “Pax Nocturna”, out June 4th, 2026, is available on all digital platforms and CD and Vinyl.

CD / Vinyl – https://shroudmtl.bandcamp.com/album/pax-nocturna

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/5dfAWpVKaWlsdSBYNZ8L1H

All Creation – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4okttHfnlg

The Eternal Void – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJ56_laldDc

Track Listing:
1. Pax Nocturna (0:43)
2. The Eternal Void (5:09)
3. The Zealot (5:15)
4. Merciless Tyrants (5:59)
5. Darkest Night (4:45)
6. Diablivion (5:28)
7. Death Blows Over (4:18)
8. All Creation (5:29)
9. Abaddon (7:55)
Album Length: 45:05

Album and Live Band lineup:
Matteo Conti – Guitar and Vocals
Jordan Barillaro – Guitar
Zack Osiris – Drums
Justin Cournoyer – Bass

More info:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086688022343

https://www.instagram.com/shroud.mtl

About: Emerging from the depths below, Shroud formed in 2022 when Conti and Osiris began writing together during the pandemic. With the later addition of Barillaro and Cournoyer, the band’s lineup solidified into a unit defined by technical skill, raw aggression, and a shared vision of darkness. Their sound, blistering riffs, thunderous drums, and vocals echoing through the void, has quickly earned them recognition as one of Montreal’s most promising extreme‑metal acts. Now, with Pax Nocturna, Shroud is ready to unleash its full power.

Album Recording Credits:
– All songs performed by: Matteo Conti, Zack Osiris, Jordan Barillaro, Justin Cournoyer
– All songs written by: Matteo Conti and Zack Osiris
– Produced by: Shroud and Jordan Barillaro
– Mixed by: Jordan Barillaro
– Album Art by: Justin Cournoyer
– Mastered by: Tore Stjerna

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“Imagine the ferocity, the grit and attitude of ‘Power n Pain’ era Whiplash, add the nocturnal melodic majesty of Necrophobic, and then a heaping helping of D-beat (always appreciated). Vicious, limb twitchin’ and about as infectious as something you believe you might have picked up on a recent European vacation, but wish you hadn’t. Recc for fans of SkeletonWitch, Necrophobic, Hellripper and others who successfully manage to imbue ragin’ Thrash insanity with an exquisite sense of darkness. This scatches the itch, then successfully obliterates it!” 94/100 – Cult Metal Flix

“A definite early AOTY candidate with strong claims, 5 star Black/Thrash!… There’s a high amount of crushing chugging riffs across this full length and the leadwork is absolutely scorching across the board, shreddy solos with that classic heavy metal, Thrash phrasing with a few mid-paced ones thrown in that are topped off with a couple of whammy bar accents and tremolos in them. Some of these riffs just will absolutely pummel you, as they’re fast and unrelenting as hell; also, there’s one or two solos that appear in a single track too. The vocals on this aren’t just high black metal screams, but there’s creepy deep spoken word vocals, chants and a few death growls also; if you’re into absolutely groove filled Blackened Thrash then absolutely look no further than this masterpiece, absolutely don’t sleep on it, a definite AOTY contender personally. Rating: 10/10!” – Drako’s Metal Reviews

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0 Denver’s MILE HIGH POWER FEST Announces 2026 Lineup w/ THE DREAD CREW OF ODDWOOD, LADY BEAST, ANUBIS, ICE GIANT, HEL HATH FURY, and more!

June 3, 2026
by Asher
· Mile High Power Fest · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 3, 2026

Denver’s MILE HIGH POWER FEST Announces 2026 Lineup

w/ THE DREAD CREW OF ODDWOOD, LADY BEAST, ANUBIS, ICE GIANT, HEL HATH FURY, and more!

Denver’s only dedicated power metal festival, Mile High Power Fest, storms into its third year on August 15, 2026, bringing another stacked lineup of heavy‑hitting national acts and rising local talent to The Oriental Theater. Founded by Denver’s underground champions, BiteSize Productions, the festival continues its mission to uplift the local scene while bringing world‑class power metal to the western United States.

This year’s main lineup features a high‑energy mix of returning favorites and new additions to the MHPF family. Fans can expect performances from The Dread Crew of Oddwood, Lady Beast, Anubis, Ice Giant, Hel Hath Fury, and more! With past years featuring Seven Spires, Lords of the Trident, Graveshadow, Aether Realm, Glyph, Owlbear, and Empress, MHPF continues to cement itself as a must‑attend event for power metal fans across North America.

A three‑day metal celebration, Mile High Power Fest apart is its full‑weekend experience, offering fans multiple opportunities to connect, celebrate, and shred together. Don’t Miss the Rockies’ Premier Power Metal Event! With a growing legacy, a passionate community, and a lineup built to shake Denver to its core, Mile High Power Fest 2026 promises its biggest year yet. Fans are encouraged to secure tickets early and join the full weekend of metal‑fueled events.

Mile High Power Fest 2026 LineUp:
The Dread Crew of Oddwood
Lady Beast Anubis
Ice Giant
Hel Hath Fury
Darconigan
Wicked Vixen

Event Details Mile High Power Fest 2026
Date: August 15, 2026
Time: Doors at 4 PM
Venue: The Oriental Theater 4335 W 44th Ave, Denver, CO 80212
Tickets: https://theorientaltheater.holdmyticket.com/tickets/459366
RSVP on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/2768706170154175/

Mile High Power Fest 2026 Spotify Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4qTxCdWqJl6HrqeQ0mq5Bl?si=KIWS6D2PRU29QAx2GNBITA

Kicking off on Thursday, August 13, the festival launches with the MHPF FREE Game Night at Creepatorium, a no‑cost community hangout where fans can dive into games, connect with fellow metalheads, and spark the festival weekend’s energy.

On Friday, August 14, the MHPF Pre‑Party hosted at Seventh Circle Music Collective will showcase up‑and‑coming metal bands and Denver’s thriving underground scene that includes Talia Holt, Burn The Myth, Gone Full, Monkey Under The Mountain, and Heathen.

After the festival lineup performs, MHPF will be hosting the official Afterparty, Saturday, August 15, from 11 PM–2 AM at BlackSky Brewery, featuring the debut of The Dread Crew of Oddwood’s custom beer, brewed exclusively for the festival.

About The MHPF 2026 Bands:

The Dread Crew of Oddwood – https://thedreadcrewofoddwood.com/

Music Video – Leather Ship – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGEOV66CXis

The Dread Crew of Oddwood, formed in 2008 in Southern California, has become one of the world’s leading independent folk‑metal acts. Armed solely with acoustic instruments, the band delivers its signature “Heavy Mahogany” sound, blending heavy metal energy with Celtic and European folk to tell tales of battle, revelry, and misadventure. They’ve released four albums with over 5,000 units sold, maintain more than 30,000 monthly Spotify listeners, and engage a social following of over 32,500 fans. Their music has appeared in Rocket League, and they’ve toured extensively across North America, the UK, and Europe, including runs with Alestorm and performances at Wacken Winter Nights. Following years of writing and recording, the band returned with their fifth album Rust & Glory, accompanied by new videos, major tours, and appearances on 70000Tons of Metal.

Lady Beast – https://www.facebook.com/ladybeastofficial

Music Video – Reaper – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DjNaL99FCFA

Since 2009, LADY BEAST have been flying the flag for refined HEAVY METAL. The band hails from the Steel City of Pittsburgh, forming with firm influences ranging from Motörhead, Dio, Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Mercyful Fate. From there, LADY BEAST has woven their own unique style of metal with silky yet sharp harmonizing guitars and the soaring, rally-the-warriors vocals!

Anubis – https://linktr.ee/AnubisMetalOfficial

Music Video – Fanged Angel – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p1FrqYDPkms

Anubis is a rising Los Angeles power‑thrash force known for soaring vocals, razor‑sharp riffing, and high‑energy, melodic songwriting. Blending European‑influenced power metal with modern American aggression, the band has built a loyal following through acclaimed releases, dynamic live shows, and a sound rooted in speed, precision, and storytelling. They’ve become a staple of the Southern California metal scene, sharing stages with acts like Delain, Xandria, Warbringer, Omnium Gatherum, Aether Realm, Týr, Seven Kingdoms, and more while performing material from their debut Dark Paradise and EP The Puppeteers. Now fronted by vocalist Hanna Preston, Anubis unveils a fiercer fusion of power, thrash, and melodic death metal. Their latest album, Anthromorphicide, was released on April 24 via M‑Theory Audio on CD, digital, and limited metallic‑gold vinyl.

Ice Giant – https://www.facebook.com/IceGiantBand/

Music Video – Obscuring Cloud – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sO4kPIE5EUM

Ice Giant is a Boston‑based progressive melodic death metal band known for their sweeping compositions, technical precision, and cinematic blend of melody and brutality. Drawing from Scandinavian melodeath, modern prog, and epic symphonic influences, the band crafts towering soundscapes built on soaring leads, crushing riffs, and dynamic storytelling. Their ambitious songwriting and commanding live performances have earned them a fast‑growing following throughout the New England metal scene and beyond. With a reputation for pushing genre boundaries while delivering undeniable heaviness, Ice Giant continues to rise as one of the most exciting emerging forces in American melodic death metal.

Hel Hath Fury – https://helhathfury.my.canva.site/

Music Video – Never Again – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZdPYNekakA

Denver’s Hel Hath Fury is a melodic death metal band formed in 2023 with a mission to inspire strength and perseverance through powerful, emotionally driven music. Their sound blends crushing riffs, soaring melodies, and technical songwriting with themes rooted in personal struggle, resilience, and triumph. Drawing from real experiences and shared battles, the band crafts lyrics meant to connect deeply with listeners and remind them they’re never alone. Centered on empowerment and emotional fortitude, Hel Hath Fury creates music that encourages fans to face life’s challenges with courage. With every performance, they invite audiences into a journey of catharsis, determination, and unbreakable spirit.

Darconigan – https://www.darconigan.com/

Music Video – Fire and Split Stone, The Southern Wall’s Collapse – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COw-nN_Teho

Darconigan hail from the shadowed Wet Mountains of Colorado, where their music and stories are forged in the dark places of the wood. Channeling Melodic Black/Death Battle Metal, the band blends fierce riffing, atmospheric melodies, and myth‑steeped storytelling into a sound that feels both ancient and untamed. Their songs draw from the wild spirit of their mountain home, creating an immersive world of fantasy, conflict, and raw emotion. As they continue to rise within Colorado’s metal scene, Darconigan stand apart with a style as rugged and evocative as the forests that shaped them.

Wicked Vixen – https://linktr.ee/yourwickedvixen

Music Video – In Cold Blood – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZP9uEf9DjJM

Wicked Vixen is a Colorado Springs hard rock band delivering heavy riffs, powerful vocals, and a driving edge that hits with purpose. With electric violin woven into their sound, they bring a sharp, distinctive dynamic to a genre built on intensity. Their music is bold, dark, and unapologetic—rooted in real experience, raw emotion, and a refusal to hold back. Drawing comparisons to Halestorm and Evanescence, the band commands the stage with a fierce live presence and a sound that never plays it safe. Wicked Vixen isn’t chasing trends; they’re forging something lasting entirely on their own terms.

More info:

Festival Info: https://www.bitesizeevents.com/mile-high-power-fest
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milehighpowerfest/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556641145956

About Mile High Power Fest:

MHPF was created by BiteSize Productions, a small but ambitious Denver‑based production company dedicated to uplifting underground music and creating accessible, community‑driven events. After drawing roughly 400 attendees in 2025, the festival continues to grow, strengthening the Rocky Mountain metal community and drawing fans from across the country.

Festival Press Materials Dropbox HERE.

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0 LITTLE KING Updates July West Coast Tour Dates in Support of New Album “Lente Viviente”

June 2, 2026
by Asher
· Little King · Music News · Uncategorized

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 2, 2026

LITTLE KING Updates July West Coast Tour Dates in Support of New Album “Lente Viviente”

L-R – Tony Bojorquez (Drums), David Hamilton (Bass, Cello), Ryan Rosoff (Guitar, Vocals)

Arizona’s Little King, the dynamic, melodic, progressive, heavy‑rock trio helmed by songwriter‑guitarist Ryan Rosoff, will hit the road this July for a string of West Coast U.S. dates in support of their latest album, “Lente Viviente,” released in September 2025. This run marks the band’s second major tour cycle since completing the record, following their early‑year shows across New Mexico, Texas, Arizona, and even a surprise pop‑up performance in Mexico. (Their full tour diary is available at https://littlekingtunes.com/2026/03/little-king-march-2026-tour-diary-power-shortages-ibuprofen-and-gratitude/.)

In addition to the tour, Little King will reveal a brand‑new single later this summer titled “Opus Perficit,” the first new music to follow “Lente Viviente” and a preview of the band’s next creative chapter.

Rosoff calls Lente Viviente “BY FAR our biggest release,” and the upcoming dates promise to bring that momentum to the West Coast.

“Lente Viviente” represents a major creative leap for the long-running project. With new members Tony Bojorquez (drums) and Dave Hamilton (bass), plus a fresh studio environment, Little King crafted what Rosoff describes as their most accomplished work to date, musically, lyrically, and emotionally.

The album’s title, Spanish for “Living Lens”, is a nod to Rosoff’s video memoir company, LivingLens Memoirs, and sets the thematic tone. Across its tightly constructed “micro-epics,” the record explores memory, identity, perception, and the shifting filters through which we understand ourselves and others.

Fans can expect a listening experience Rosoff likens to “a short, mind-blowing journey…like Musical DMT.”

The album’s lyrics move across a wide emotional and social landscape, touching on themes of childhood and enduring friendship (“Catch and Release,” “Dawn Villa”), immigration and identity (“Who’s Illegal?”), aging and addiction (“Pass Through Filters”), and the balance between strength and vulnerability (“Kindness for Weakness”).

Musically, the record blends progressive rock, hard rock, and melodic hooks with the band’s trademark precision and dynamic push-and-pull. Each track is densely arranged yet concise, with most songs clocking in under four minutes.

Little King’s live reputation is built on meticulous preparation, tight musicianship, and explosive energy. Ryan, Tony, and Dave bring decades of combined experience to the stage, delivering performances that are both technically sharp and emotionally charged.

Fans can expect high‑level musicianship, dynamic setlists, and a live show that’s both polished and unpredictable, what Rosoff describes as “meticulous, rehearsed, and RAGING with push and pull energy…PROS with experience.”

The band will perform across key West Coast cities, bringing “Lente Viviente” to life on stage for the first time.

Little King – West Coast USA Tour 2026
July 10 – Ruidoso, NM – Downshift Brewery Riverside
July 12 – Tucson, AZ – Brick Box Brewery w/ The Crown Syndicate and Zold
July 14 – Tempe, AZ – Yucca Tap Room
July 15 – Anaheim, CA – The World Famous Doll Hut
July 17 – San Diego, CA – Tower Bar w/ Stretcher
July 18 – West Hollywood, CA – The Viper Room
July 19 – Pacifica, CA – Winters Tavern w/ The Wandering Jews and Melting Elephants
July 23 – Bisbee, AZ – Gene’s Place
July 25 – El Paso, TX – Lowbrow Palace

With influences ranging from Rush, Porcupine Tree, Pink Floyd, Muse, Led Zeppelin, and Night Verses, Little King’s music resonates with fans of both classic and modern rock. Their new album “Lente Viviente” (released Sept 26th, 2025) is available on digital platforms.

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/3a3zhTxNkC6u9xaD5gytJe

Music Video – Who’s Illegal? – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTh1THFdij4

Lyric Video – Dawn Villa – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ksxlb2ekYIM

Lyric Video – Catch and Release – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hgt9U547jbw

Studio Video – Keyboard Soldier – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhDSUpl6PW8

Track Listing:
1. Catch and Release – 3:22
2. Dawn Villa – 3:42
3. Who’s Illegal? – 3:56
4. Kindness for Weakness – 3:21
5. Sweet Jessie James – 2:42
6. Pass Through Filters – 4:50
7. The Living Lens – 3:37
Album Length: 25:34

For more info: https://littlekingtunes.com/

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“Overall, this band showcased a sophisticated sense of melodies that were not overly complicated, but easy to assimilate as well. Not being familiar with them, I am surprised to learn of their longevity, and you wouldn’t know this was their eight album, because the drive and fire in them is very much alive in their music. 8/10” – Metal Temple

“Little King maintain high intensity from start to finish, achieving a rare balance between complexity and immediacy. Each track has its own identity and emotional range, and the musicianship and production are consistently top-tier. According to Rocky, Lente Viviente is essential listening for prog and heavy-rock fans who miss the spirit of Saga, Rush, and King’s X.” – Metalized

“Seven songs, clocking in at just over twenty-five minutes Little King pack a powerful and melodic cocktail of prog, rock and alternative. If Rush jammed with REM and King’s X it would sound a little like this. Impressive.” – Get Ready To Rock!

“Little King hasn’t just released an album; they’ve crafted an immersive, emotional journey that rewards every listen.” – Jace Media Music

“Long-running Progressive Rock outfit Little King is unveiling “Dawn Villa,” the second single from their highly anticipated eighth studio album, Lente Viviente! A sonic time capsule wrapped in staccato riffs and melodic crescendos, “Dawn Villa” is a heartfelt tribute to frontman Ryan Rosoff’s formative years in Mercer Island, Washington. The track comes from their eighth album Lente Viviente, which is available for pre-order/digital pre-save now at the links below, and releases September 26th, 2025. If you grew up obsessed with the classic seventies prog rock greats like Rush, King Crimson, and Pink Floyd, with a modern flare for drama such as Muse or Neal Morse, Little King deserves your attention! ” – Ghost Cult Magazine

“The album reflects a stylistic maturity that has strengthened over time and a layering of ideas that have, on this occasion, found a stable place. The project’s artistic perspective rests on very solid technical foundations and a strong will to celebrate the traditional principles of classic rock, while also flirting with progressive elements and ultimately making the most of a decidedly pronounced melodic inclination. An absolutely original point of view that has given rise to an elegant and refined sound, capable of effectively combining electric jolts and delicate harmonies in the spirit of a truly contagious passion.” – Rock Hard Italy

“Over nearly three decades, Little King has evolved from the El Paso roots of “Transmountain” to the intricate, personal soundscapes of “Lente Viviente,” blending complex arrangements, strong melodies, and lyrical depth.” – Progressive Rock Journal

“Lente Viviente is as striking as it is arousing and easy to suggest a must for all rock appetites. LITTLE KING seem to know how to feed every instinct and want with their eclectic enterprise and at the same time spring something strikingly new, the proof all there in Lente Viviente.” – The Ringmaster Review

“Tucson progressive rockers’ Little King are gearing up for the release of their 8th studio album, ‘Lente Viviente’ on Sept. 26th and have also just dropped their first single from the album, ‘Catch and Release’. This band truly pushes boundaries and yet makes modern prog rock very accessible. That is a difficult feat and a challenge many bands can’t overcome. But these fellas make it sound very simple, even though the music is quite complex. Similar to YES in that every instrument, including the vocals, all seem to be doing their own thing…but somehow it all works beautifully, and that is what good prog is about. Listen up for Little King on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll

“”Lente Viviente” is a great release, very short of course, but still atmospheric and moving. Overriding the higher-faster-further mentality in such a playful way deserves respect, and the men deserve it again with their eighth appearance overall.8/10″ – PowerMetal.de

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0 Canadian Progressive Death THE CONFLUX COLLECTIVE Unleashes “Devouring Light” From New Album “In the Wake of Saturn” Out June 2026

June 2, 2026
by Asher
· Conflux Collective · Music News · Uncategorized

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 2, 2026

Canadian Progressive Death THE CONFLUX COLLECTIVE Unleashes “Devouring Light”

New Album “In the Wake of Saturn” Out June 2026

L-R – Max Lussier, Jesse Brint, Mallika Sundaramurthy, Tommy McKinnon, Eric Burnet, Jeffrey Mott

PHOTOGRAPHER CREDITS: Joe Diaz, Derek Carr of Visionsinpixels, Mat Barbeau, Tania Hébert

Montreal’s extreme‑metal collaborative force Conflux Collective will release its long‑anticipated full‑length album “In the Wake of Saturn” on June 19th, 2026. The record marks the resurrection of a project once thought lost to time, rebuilt from the ground up by drummer, composer, and producer Tommy McKinnon (Derelict, Akurion, ex‑Neuraxis, ex‑Augury) after years of dormancy.

The album’s second single, “Devouring Light,” arrives next after the release of the first single and lyric video “Reincarnation.”

This second single showcases the project’s darker, slower, and more groove‑driven side.

“It’s a deep song with many twists and turns… Chase’s guitar mastery shines throughout and is crowned with a beautiful solo. The song itself is a doom-leaning, torturous piece that is a groove-filled and crafty maelstrom of heavy riffs and open chords. The bass line is rich with attitude. The words talk about witnessing an ecological disaster of epic magnitude,” says McKinnon

Listen to “Devouring Light” at the following links:

Lyric Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skYaLYoVjX8

Conflux Collective began as a spontaneous spark between McKinnon and guitarist Chase Fraser (Continuum, ex‑Decrepit Birth, ex‑Animosity) after a chance reunion in a Montreal fast‑food joint following a King Diamond show. As McKinnon recalls:

“We got talking and realized we actually played together at the San Francisco venue, the Pound… by the end of the first hour, we had a song pretty much done.”

Within six weeks, the pair had written and recorded their debut EP, “The Inception” (2016). But life’s unpredictability forced the project into years of silence until McKinnon revived it with renewed purpose, reconstructing the album from archived material, new compositions, and a completely DIY production approach.

“This is the first album I ever recorded on bass guitar… I had to figure out every note… it forced me to use my ears and think ‘out of the box.’”

Across eight tracks, “In the Wake of Saturn” delivers a progressive, brutal, melodic, and uncompromising journey through personal upheaval, transformation, and rebirth.

“A journey through pain, fear, defeat, survival, and finally rebirth… a true underground monster, made for those who appreciate and seek the unusual,” adds McKinnon.

Musically, the album fuses the ferocity of ’90s death metal with the precision of modern tech‑death. Lyrically, it channels deeply personal experiences, existential reflection, and the power to alter one’s destiny.

The record features a powerhouse lineup of extreme‑metal vocalists: Jesse Brint (Gross Misconduct), Mallika Sundaramurthy (Emasculator, ex‑Abnormality), Jeffrey Mac Dermott (The Monster Factory, Growlers Choir), Eric Burnet (Derelict, Samskaras), and Max (Derelict), who also contributes a blistering guitar solo.

Conflux Collective was built on the idea of merging diverse extreme‑vocal styles into a single, evolving entity. As McKinnon explains:

“The idea of a ‘collective’ came mainly from featuring many vocalists and bringing together different styles of extreme vocals to create something unique and diversified.”

Though the project has no plans for live performances, The Conflux Collective stands as a testament to collaboration without boundaries, a convergence of some of extreme music’s most creative voices.

Recommended for fans of Cryptopsy, Necrophagist, Decrepit Birth, Augury, and Beyond Creation, “In the Wake of Saturn” will be available on all digital platforms as of June 19th, 2026.

Album pre-save – http://confluxcollective.bandcamp.com/

Vinyl and CD pre-order – https://elasticstage.com/confluxcollective

Merch / Apparel available – https://confluxco-shop.fourthwall.com/

Lyric Video – Reincarnation – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nce0-kz3nTk

Track Listing:
1. The Antidote – 3:02
2. Devoid of True Form – 2:39
3. Ethereal Executioner – 4:45
4. Devouring Light – 4:59
5. Blood from a Rock 4:18
6. Reincarnation – 3:20
7. In the Wake of Saturn – 2:29
8. Desperate Post-Humanist – 5:18
Album Length: 30:53

Album Band Line-up:
Guitar: Chase Fraser (Continuum)
Vocals: Eric Burnet (Derelict), Max Lussier (Derelict), Jesse Brint (Gross Misconduct), Mallika Sundaramurthy (Emasculator), Jeff Mott (Hollow, Monster Factory)
Additional guitar, bass, and drums: Tommy McKinnon
Track 1,2, 3, 6. Music: Chase Fraser. Lyrics: Tommy McKinnon
Track 4. Music: Chase Fraser. Lyrics: Jesse Brint
Track 5, 7. Music & Lyrics: Tommy McKinnon
Track 8. Music: Tommy McKinnon. Lyrics: Eric Burnet

More info:

https://www.facebook.com/confluxcollective

https://www.instagram.com/confluxco/

About: Formed in Montreal after a chance post‑show encounter, The Conflux Collective is a progressive technical death‑metal project built on collaboration, experimentation, and emotional depth. Featuring contributions from some of the genre’s most distinctive vocalists, the band blends the ferocity of old‑school death metal with the precision and ambition of modern tech‑death. In the Wake of Saturn marks their first full‑length album.

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Conflux Collective
• All songs written by: Conflux Collective
• Produced by: Tommy McKinnon
• Mixed by: Jeanne Comateuse at Magma Art & Sound
• Mastered by: Jeanne Comateuse at Magma Art & Sound
• Album Artwork by: Filip Ivanovic
• Member of SOCAN

Affiliated links:

Mix engineer: https://magma-sound.com

Derelict: https://derelictmetal.bandcamp.com

Akurion: https://akurion-ca.bandcamp.com/album…

Emasculator: https://www.instagram.com/emasculator_bdm

Mallika: https://www.instagram.com/mallika_sun

Gross Misconduct: https://grossmisconduct.bandcamp.com

The Monster Factory: https://www.themonster-factory.com/en

Coma Cluster Void: https://comaclustervoid.com

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“this maddening musical force comprised of many of today’s best death metal musicians. – Austin Weber, No Clean Singing (EP The Inception, 2016)

“The Conflux Collective deliver their first song unto us, a brain scrambling ditty called “Lucid Hallucinations”. This new multi-national death metal group is definitely a band you’ll want to keep an eye on!” – Metal Injection (EP The Inception, 2016)

“Each song features a rotating cast of different vocalists and bassist on each song, with the only members on all three being guitarist/composer Chase Frasier (Continuum, ex-Decrepit Birth, ex-Son Of Aurelius, ex- Animosity, etc) and highly skilled drummer Tommy McKinnon (Akurion/Neuraxis as the only constants in this maddening musical force comprised of many of today’s best death metal musicians. The three vocalists on The Inception are: Mike Disalvo (Akurion/Coma Cluster Void/ex-Cryptopsy) on track one, Matt McGachy (Cryptopsy) on track two, and Beneath The Massacre vocalist Elliot Desgagnes on track three. All three songs on The Inception sound and unfold differently than each other, which bodes well for the groups future moving forwards! Jam below for some high-octane shred heavy tech-death that’ll bore a hole through your head. But do so in a finessed way of course!” – Metal Injection (EP The Inception, 2016)

“At just about 10-minutes in length, The Inception feels more like a teaser than anything else. But that’s just a consequence of how strong it sounds. If they continue to enlist the best of the best as they move forward with more material, Conflux could really be something special. A must-hear if you prefer your death metal on the tech-ier side of things (or you dig any of the members involved).” – Dead Rhetoric (EP The Inception, 2016)

“Helmed by guitarist/songwriter Chase Fraser (Continuum, ex Animosity, Decrepit Birth) and drummer Tommy Mckinnon (Akurion/Neuraxis), Conflux Collective is a new collaborative death metal project bent on both pushing the bounds of creativity within the genre and the culminating of ideas with other artists in the community.” – New Noise Magazine (EP The Inception, 2016)

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0 THE MOURNING Unveils New Chapter w/ Dual‑Vocal Lineup and New Video “If I Die I Die”

June 2, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · The Mourning

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 2, 2026

THE MOURNING Unveils New Chapter w/ Dual‑Vocal Lineup and New Video “If I Die I Die”

L-R – Alex Nasla, Nanda Hayek, Jason Berlin, Jason Ashcraft, Alon Mei-Tal, Johnny Ray, Francesco Pinter

Photo credit: Alex Nasla

Progressive metal band The Mourning returns with “If I Die I Die,” a powerful new single and cinematic music video that launches the next chapter of the band’s evolution, one defined by heavier sonics, deeper emotional intensity, and the introduction of new co‑vocalist Nanda Hayek.

Built on the band’s signature blend of cinematic songwriting, dual vocals, and progressive metal precision, the track confronts the fear of death, existential dread, and the psychological exhaustion of living under fear’s control. As the band states in the source document, the song’s core declaration, “I’m tired of all this fear, I’m done living in fear”, captures its central theme of surrendering fear and stepping into freedom.

Following the acclaim of their full‑length album “Hush”, praised as “a complex, engaging prog metal album” and “a very pleasant surprise” by metal media, the band sought a deliberate creative shift.

In October 2025, The Mourning quietly welcomed Brazilian vocalist Nanda Hayek into the lineup, known for her work with OverAlive and her background in psychotherapy and existential studies. Rather than announcing the change immediately, the band spent months crafting new material and building a complete visual identity around the single.

“If I Die I Die” is the first release to showcase the renewed dual‑vocal dynamic between Hayek and founding vocalist Johnny Ray, expanding the band’s emotional range and intensifying its modern metal edge.

Written by Francesco Pinter and Johnny Ray, and produced, mixed, and mastered by Alex Nasla, the single blends progressive metal intricacy with a darker, more direct heaviness. The band describes the track as “a psychological and spiritual battle,” moving from dread into cathartic release.

Lyrically, the song is framed as a dialogue between fear and faith, one voice clinging to control, the other fighting to break free. The refrain “If I die I die” is not nihilistic, but a moment of liberation: the refusal to let fear dictate one’s life.

The accompanying music video visualizes the song’s emotional arc through a symbolic narrative. A woman is hunted by a mysterious figure of death, terrified at first, then increasingly resolute. She rides her motorcycle toward the confrontation she has avoided, only to discover that death was never the true enemy. Fear was.

“By facing it directly, she conquers the thing that had been ruling her,” adds Johnny Ray.

The release also follows a breakthrough year for the band. In 2025, The Mourning made their live debut aboard 70000 Tons of Metal, where Kerrang! hailed them as an “outrageously talented new prog collective” and praised their 3 a.m. debut as “one of the sets of the weekend.” They later performed at Prog on the Ranch 2025, further solidifying their presence in the progressive metal scene.

Recommended for fans of Lacuna Coil, Amaranthe, Flyleaf, Disturbed, and Evanescence, watch and listen to the video for “If I Die I Die” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pbms_iiHgAM

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/themourning/if-i-die-i-die

For more info:

https://www.themourningmusic.com

https://www.facebook.com/themourningmusic

https://www.instagram.com/themourningmusic

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

About: Formed by vocalist and songwriter Johnny Ray, The Mourning was created to transform personal struggle, spiritual searching, and existential weight into emotionally immediate progressive metal. Their music blends soaring dual vocals, intricate musicianship, atmospheric tension, and deeply human lyrical themes. The band’s previous album, “Hush,” established them as a rising force in modern progressive metal, exploring anxiety, trauma, meaning, and inner transformation across its acclaimed tracklist.

– 30 –

“The band blends mid to uptempo grooves while also introducing space and atmosphere in just the right places. Combining melody, technical/progressive musical elements, and harmony lead vocals, I feel this band caters to both musicians and non-musicians alike.” – Todd La Torre (Queensrÿche)

“The Mourning masterfully marries classic synth sounds, modern Haken-esque rhythms, and massive vocal hooks into a modern progressive package worthy of every fan’s undivided attention.” – Metal Injection

“In a world of clones, The Mourning is a true original and a breath of fresh air.” – Gear Gods

“With the release of “Hush”, the band continue to showcase their mastery to balance technical prowess with broader thematic appeal. The Mourning will most definitely make a big impact on the prog metal scene today and in the future.” – Metal Epidemic

“An impressive first album from a young band with room to grow. Fans of bands like Haken and Distrct 97 will enjoy this album. One to watch.” – Prog Radio

“Hush” a sensory treat that transcends the limits of perception.” – Roadie Metal

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0 Thrash Metal From Reunion Island LOMOR Update EU Tour Dates + Hellfest; New Album “Sabouk Rouge” Out Now!

June 1, 2026
by Asher
· Lomor (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 2, 2026

Thrash Metal From Reunion Island LOMOR Update EU Tour Dates + Hellfest

New Album “Sabouk Rouge” Out Now! via Rockshots Records

Reunion Island thrash metal trio LOMOR is heading to Europe, launching a run of France and Belgium tour dates in support of their new album “Sabouk Rouge,” with the trek kicking off at Hellfest. This band will be bringing their raw, Creole‑infused thrash to some of the region’s most respected stages (updated tour dates are listed below).

The tour supports their latest album, “Sabouk Rouge,” released this past February 2026 via Rockshots Records. Produced by the band, recorded and mixed by Sébastien Camhi at Art Music Studio in France, and mastered by Kai Stahlenberg at Kohlekeller Studio in Germany, “Sabouk Rouge” expands LOMOR’s sonic palette while staying true to their primal thrash roots. With more Creole lyrics woven in at fans’ request, the album strengthens its cultural identity as it shifts through a wide range of moods.

“The tracks are all different, each bringing its own atmosphere. It’s still trash, but with a variety of flavors,” says Eric.

That diversity fuels a record that moves from the title track’s sharp satire of Réunion’s legacy of slavery to the grotesque obsession of “Meet Your Meat,” the ritualistic mysticism of “Sanctuary,” and the blistering critique of religion in “La Haine.” The tone lightens with the street‑racing humor of “La Pouss’,” then darkens again with “Panzram,” exploring the roots of a killer’s hatred. The album revisits Eric’s past with a reimagined “Kit Ta Mère” before closing on “Nevroz,” a reversed, tongue‑in‑cheek remake born from a studio joke.

LOMOR has carved its identity as one of the most distinctive metal acts emerging from the Indian Ocean. Their sound, described by guitarist/vocalist Eric Castelnau (Babouk) as “creole thrash old‑school stuff”, fuses classic 80s thrash aggression with the cultural grit and linguistic identity of Réunion Island.

LOMOR began as a deeply personal project for Eric, who formed the band in 2018 after the passing of his cousin and brother, both former bandmates in his earlier project, Black Babouk. The name Lomor, meaning “The Deads” in Réunion Creole, stands as a tribute to the people and memories that shaped his musical path.

Joined by drummer Gurvan Cambrai (Typhvs) (also of grind outfit Brvtal trve d’baal) and bassist Micha (member of a local Rage Against the Machine tribute band), the trio has forged a sound rooted in old‑school thrash but sharpened by modern production and raw island energy.

New album “Sabouk Rouge” is now available from Rockshots Records at the following links:

DIGITAL – https://lnk.to/th31Lt

CD ORDER – https://rockshots.eu/SaboukRougeCD

Music Video – Sabouk Rouge – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSBEQJOr754

Music Video – Tantine Lo Clou – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fx2FUx0G01c

Music Video – Panzram – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=388LBe1K7x4

Lomor – Sabouk Tour
17/06 — Hellfest – Clisson (FR)
19/06 — B52 Music Club, Icheteghem (BE)
20/06 — Le Brewpeppes, Lille (FR)
21/06 — Carolo Culture, Charleroi (BE)
25/06 — Axis Musique, Toulouse (FR)
26/06 — Bulle de Son, Lyon (FR)
27/06 — Café du Théâtre, Pontarlier (FR)
18/07 — Studiotic, Sainte‑Clotilde (RE)

Track Listing:
1. Sabouk Rouge – 5:13
2. Tantine Lo Clou – 3:40
3. Meet Your Meat – 3:16
4. Sanctuary – 5:17
5. A Shiny Day For A Vampire – 5:14
6. La Haine – 5:06
7. La Pouss’ – 3:07
8. Panzram – 4:29
9. The Ugly, The Bad & The Bastard – 3:02
10. Kit’ Ta Mère – 4:24
11. Nevroz (feat. S. Camhi) – 2:34
Album Length: 45:22

Lomor Line Up:
– Eric Castelnau (aka Babouk) – Vocals & Guitars
– Gurvan Cambrai (aka Typhvs) – Drums
– Mathieu Michalina (aka Micha) – Bass Guitar

More info:

https://rockshots.eu/

https://www.instagram.com/lomor.music

https://www.facebook.com/lomormusic

About: Lomor is a power trio from Reunion Island (France) delivering an explosive blend of old-school thrash, punk, and core metal. Drawing inspiration from Slayer, Testament, and Kreator, the band channels the raw spirit of 80s thrash through modern production and unrelenting stage energy.

Formed in 2018 by Eric Castelnau (vocals, guitars), joined by Gurvan Cambrai (drums) and Mathieu “Micha” Michalina (bass), Lomor quickly became one of the loudest voices in the island’s metal scene. Their first single, “Kanyar L’Enfer” (2021), set the tone for their uncompromising sound, followed by their debut full-length “Perseverance of Sickness” (2022), recorded by Sébastien Camhi (Art Music Studio, France). The album was praised by international outlets like Rock Hard France and Legacy.de for its sharp riffing and fierce authenticity.

In 2023, Lomor hit mainland France for their Kanyar Tour, performing seven shows and sharing stages with Akiavel and Mass Hysteria. They also released the live record “Live on Dock“, capturing the raw, chaotic energy that defines their performances.

Now, with their second studio album “Sabouk Rouge” (out February 2026 via Rockshots Records), Lomor dive deeper into the social and historical themes that shaped their identity, from the brutality of slavery on their island to the universal struggle against human madness and oppression. Recorded again with Sébastien Camhi and mastered by Kai Stahlenberg at Kohlekeller Studio (Germany), the album reaffirms Lomor’s old-school ethos while delivering a powerful, modern punch.

Fueled by adrenaline, rebellion, and Creole pride, Lomor stands as a unique voice in today’s global metal scene, pure thrash from Reunion Island.

-30-

“I’m completely captivated by this trio from Réunion Island, who are likely to make a huge impact on the thrash scene by bringing freshness and originality while respecting the genre’s fundamentals.” – Pavillon 666

“Conclusion: ‘Sabouk Rouge’ is a real treat for all fans of varied, authentic thrash. LOMOR present us with a wide range of riffs, creative drumming, and gritty vocals that will captivate any audience live.4.5/5” – MetalUnderground.at

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0 Colorado Power‑Metal Force SIEGE PERILOUS Unleash Battle‑Driven Lyric Video “Chieftain” From New Concept Album “Becoming The Dragon” ft. guests Fabio Lione (Rhapsody, Angra), Kristin Starkey (Twilight Force, Temperance)

June 1, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Siege Perilous

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 1, 2026

Colorado Power‑Metal Force SIEGE PERILOUS Unleash Battle‑Driven Lyric Video “Chieftain”

New Album “Becoming The Dragon” Out Now!

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

Colorado power‑metal storytellers Siege Perilous have released the brand‑new lyric video for “Chieftain”, one of the most ferocious and battle‑driven tracks from their 2026 full‑length concept album “Becoming the Dragon.”

“Chieftain” marks one of the album’s most explosive narrative chapters, chronicling the protagonist’s rise to power on the Infinite Steppe. As described in the album’s storyline, “Having survived the Crystalline dunes, our hero finds his way to the Infinite Steppe… There he follows a mighty Chieftain to victory. When the Chieftain perishes, our hero seizes control and cuts a bloody swath through his enemies.”

Driven by a fast, pounding rhythm, complex arrangement, and a chant‑ready chorus, “Chieftain” captures the raw adrenaline of conquest and the intoxicating pull of power that will have the fans’ blood pumping.

“Chieftain” is part of the sweeping ten‑track narrative that forms “Becoming the Dragon,” the band’s most ambitious project to date. The album follows the Child of Prophecy through destiny, denial, tragedy, and transformation, culminating in the hero’s ascension into the dragon itself.

The band describes the album as “a cinematic journey following the Child of Prophecy as he follows his path, then denies his destiny, and then slowly comes to realize that only by embracing it can he truly overcome it.”

The record features guest appearances from two giants of the symphonic and power‑metal world: Fabio Lione (Rhapsody, Angra) and Kristin Starkey (Twilight Force, Temperance). Their contributions elevate the album’s emotional and narrative scope, fulfilling a long‑held dream for the band.

“Getting to sing alongside one of the voices that got me into metal as a teenager is an indescribable blessing… This album represents our collective experience, skill, hopes, and dreams,” adds vocalist Shaughnessy McDaniel.

Watch the lyric video for “Chieftain” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3m4tDcXq4o

Siege Perilous was forged from the camaraderie of live‑action roleplay and a shared love of cooperative storytelling. Their music blends epic riffs, soaring vocals, and cinematic arrangements into immersive narratives inspired by myth, legend, and tabletop adventures. Every track is a chapter; every performance, an adventure.

Recommended for fans of Manowar, Iron Maiden, Sabaton, Blind Guardian, Rhapsody, and Avantasia, “Becoming the Dragon” (released March 27th) is available via Crunchtronic Records on all digital platforms, along with physical CD and Vinyl, plus merch at the following links:

CD + Vinyl (Limited Edition 12″ Vinyl in Draconic Red) – https://siegemetal.bandcamp.com/album/becoming-the-dragon

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/2ij7lZIEXDFMn4I65Slc87

Track Listing:
1. Overture (Instrumental) – (2:37)
2. Ancient Rite – (4:37)
3. As the Dragon Falls (feat. Fabio Lione) – (4:33)
4. Child of Prophecy – (4:05)
5. Shattered Mirage – (4:07)
6. Chieftain – (4:03)
7. Cut Down – (3:01)
8. Echoes of Home (feat. Kristin Starkey) – (4:48)
9. Becoming the Dragon – (5:09)
10. Eschaton – (7:50)
Album Length: 44:54

More info: Siegemetal.com | Facebook.com/siegeband | Instagram.com/siegeperilousmetal | Tiktok.com/@siegemetal

-30-

Siege Perilous Unleashes a Dragon-Slaying Debut – Westword Denver

“Denver, CO power-metal storytellers Siege Perilous launch their full-length Becoming the Dragon, which stands as a genre-defining concept album for the modern era.” – New Noise Magazine

“The debut album from this Colorado band is another fine example of just taking what makes power metal and epic heavy metal work and putting your own spin to it all.. with the excellent production and two awesome guest spots from Fabio Leone and Kristen Starky to give this just a little more cred and you having an album that is for anyone who enjoys the likes of Blind Guardian, Rapsidity, Krilloan, and Evermore. Excellent. Excellent music.” – Heavy Debriefings

“Becoming the Dragon is an excellent album in its own right, and it shows an up-and-coming band making great strides towards becoming a force to be reckoned with. Siege Perilous already had me interested with their previous EP, but this album shows them maturing in their delivery, as well as fleshing out their songwriting and showing signs of the kind of epic, fantasy-themed storytelling they’re capable of. Musically, it’s a very solid album, mostly staying in epic heavy metal territory, with brief flashes of power metal, and while vocalist Shaughnessy McDaniel is a tad unpolished at times, he makes up for it with power, energy and charisma in full supply. It’s obvious this is only the beginning for the band, and they have plenty of untapped potential, but it’s still a strong debut in its own right, and one I can easily recommend for fans of epic heavy metal and fantasy-themed power metal.” – My Global Mind Magazine

“With „Becoming The Dragon“ Siege Perilous follow in the big footsteps of bands like Avantasia, Iron Maiden and Blind Guardian. And the musicians do this extremely well. Great epic, sometimes bombastic sound, strong vocal direction and very good musicians make this debut extremely worth listening to.” – Keep On Rocking Mag

“This is epic Power Metal again, with driving drums and fast guitar solos.” – Metalheads Forever Mag

“The debut album from the epic, Colorado-based power metallers is a true journey from start to finish. From soaring melodies to insane harmonised guitars to the solid drumming and powerful vocals, it’s 44-minutes of grandiose heavy metal through and through! ‘As the Dragon Falls’ (feat. the awesome Fabio Lione) is a huge high point of the album, as is ’Chieftain’ and the epic closing track. It reminds me a lot of Fellowship or even Dragonforce, that epic huge power metal built more for its huge moments and soundscapes. The band are insanely good songwriters, and for this to be a debut album makes it feel like we have some truly special things to come in the next few years! They’re ones to watch, for sure! However, for now, this is an excellent release for anyone into the genre even a little bit!” – Overtone Magazine

“For a debut, ‘Becoming The Dragon’ is a bold and confident statement… undeniably compelling, and a promising sign of greater things to come.” – Metal Rager 666

“Siege Perilous puts all the notes in the right places and has the chops to be a player in the epic power metal arena… and Becoming the Dragon offers a glimpse of this band’s potential.” – The Metal Crypt

“orchestral power metal with a fine story” – FFM-Rock

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0 Brazilian Metal Titans EMINENCE Returns w/ Crushing New Single “Silent March” ft. SEPULTURA’s ANDREAS KISSER

June 1, 2026
by Asher
· Eminence · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 1, 2026

Brazilian Metal Titans EMINENCE Returns w/ Crushing New Single “Silent March” ft. SEPULTURA’s ANDREAS KISSER

Brazilian metal veterans Eminence return with “Silent March,” the crushing new single and music video that introduce the band’s heaviest and most uncompromising era to date. The track serves as the title song for their upcoming EP, arriving later this year, and features a special guest performance from Andreas Kisser of Sepultura, whose unmistakable guitar work elevates the band’s already explosive sound.

Recorded at Denmark’s legendary AntFarm Studios with world‑renowned producer Tue Madsen, “Silent March” marks a defining moment in Eminence’s nearly three‑decade career, a fusion of Brazilian metal identity, modern heaviness, and global production excellence.

The creation of the new EP began in late 2024, sparked by bassist Davidson Mainart, whose early riffs for “Silent March” allowed the band to complete the track in just two weeks. By early 2025, Eminence entered pre‑production at Audio One Studios in Belo Horizonte, collaborating remotely with Madsen in Denmark to shape the EP’s sonic direction.

Guitarist and founding member Alan Wallace describes the release as the band’s most intense work yet:

“I feel like we’ve captured the essence of Eminence while bringing in a heavier, more modern vibe. The guitars are especially intense on this one. The theme of the EP itself exposes structures, questions symbols, and confronts the idea that faith, power, and truth walk hand in hand. Here, there are no kings. There are no gods. Only the constant sound of humanity marching, in silence, through its own ruin.”

Lyrically and thematically, the single and title track “Silent March” is a brutal portrait of corrupted faith, blind obedience, and violence transformed into a system. The song depicts a voiceless procession marching under power structures built on lies, gold, and suffering, a world where martyrdom becomes industrial, and pain is mass‑produced.

Musically, it blends industrial metal, thrash, metalcore, and death metal, delivering a modern, groove‑driven assault shaped by Wallace’s songwriting and the band’s collaborative approach.

The single includes a standout guest appearance from Andreas Kisser, whose contribution adds a layer of legacy and intensity to the track. His involvement reflects Eminence’s long‑standing connection to the Brazilian metal lineage and its ongoing role in shaping its future.

The “Silent March” music video expands the EP’s themes through stark, symbolic imagery, a world where identity dissolves, faith becomes a weapon, and humanity marches toward its own collapse. The visuals mirror the EP’s narrative arc: the system collapses into mutation, a cycle with no clear beginning or end.

The single’s artwork, created by Brazilian designer Rafael Moco, continues the band’s tradition of powerful visual storytelling. Known for his work on Dark Echoes, Moco delivers another striking concept that reflects the EP’s themes of corruption, dehumanization, and transformation.

Recommended for fans of Machine Head, Slipknot, Gojira, Sepultura, and Architects, watch and listen to the music video for “Silent March” featuring Sepultura’s Andreas Kisser at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vy_uNvGff3o

Add to your Spotify Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/6WHCXUjFFbAhaiNwzJlfMO

More info:

https://www.eminence.com.br/

https://www.instagram.com/eminenceband

https://www.facebook.com/eminenceband

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

About: Formed in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Eminence has spent nearly 30 years forging a sound that blends extreme heaviness, technical nuance, and modern aggression while honoring the legacy of the Brazilian metal scene. Led by guitarist Alan Wallace, the band has completed over 30 international tours, performing across Europe, Asia, Oceania, the Middle East, and the Americas.

Their resume includes appearances at Rock in Rio, Woodstock Festival (Poland), SXSW, CMJ, Summer Breeze Brazil, Knotfest Brazil, Rock Al Parque, and a historic invitation to join Sepultura’s farewell tour.

Eminence has shared stages with Motörhead, Sepultura, Amon Amarth, Mercyful Fate, Immolation, Krisiun, Nervosa, and many more.

Lineup:
Alan Wallace — Guitars & Synths
Bruno Paraguay — Vocals
Davidson Mainart — Bass
Thiago Caeiro — Drums

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0 DOLL Release New Single “Snakes and Ladders,” The Final Chapter In Their “Animal Crackers” Trilogy

May 29, 2026
by Asher
· DOLL · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 29, 2026

DOLL Release New Single “Snakes and Ladders,” The Final Chapter In Their “Animal Crackers” Trilogy

Ottawa alternative rock band DOLL return with “Snakes and Ladders,” the newest single in their evolving Animal Crackers trilogy, following January’s standalone release “Bear Claw” and the fan‑favourite “Shark Bait” from their 2025 album “Better Days, Better Times.” The new track marks another bold step in the band’s creative resurgence, blending their classic grit with a darker, heavier edge.

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

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

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

The track channels the feral energy, defining their latest era, pulling listeners into a space where the stakes feel real, and the emotion hits hard. It’s a full‑throttle return to old‑school DOLL, raw, gritty vocals, punchy guitars, and drums that push the song forward like a runaway car with no brakes. Carrying the emotional weight and honesty of “Better Days, Better Times,” the single confronts uncomfortable truths with a mix of vulnerability and defiance.

Lyrically, “Snakes and Ladders” stands as an anthem of resistance, calling out the “snakes in suits” who pretend to help but only serve themselves, urging listeners to stay grounded, ask questions, and refuse to play someone else’s game. Musically, it’s one of the band’s most exhilarating tracks to perform, packed with harmonics, quick in‑your‑face riffs, and a vocal delivery that dials up the grit and angst. It’s built for movement, release, and shaking off whatever’s weighing you down.

“As the song says, ‘I refuse to play your game.’ Always ask questions. Keep perspective. Don’t drink the Kool-Aid blindly.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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What the press has said about DOLL:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
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