Space Metal Opera AEDAN SKY Unveils First Single/ Video “Beyond The Vortex Of Time” From Debut Album “The Universal Realm” Out Sept 2025
Rockshots Records is proud to unveil “The Universal Realm”, the debut full-length by France’s AEDAN SKY – a visionary space metal opera crafted by Sébastien Chabot, known for his work as singer/guitarist of GALDERIA and bassist in KINGCROWN.
Echoing the golden age of European power metal, “The Universal Realm” is a conceptual journey that blends speed, melody, and spiritual narrative into ten chapters of awakening. Drawing inspiration from science fiction and esoteric philosophy, the album tells the story of SKY and AEDAN as they traverse space, time, and consciousness on a mission to ignite humanity’s inner light.
Three lead vocalists interpret the story’s characters, creating a theatrical and emotionally charged vocal experience:
Sébastien Chabot as SKY
Bob Saliba (Kingcrown, ex-Galderia) as AEDAN
Thomas Schmitt (Galderia) as SKY’s Soul
Musically, the album delivers an intense and uplifting melodic power metal ride: fast riffing, massive choirs, anthemic choruses, and cinematic soundscapes.
The first single to be released from “The Universal Realm” is titled “Beyond The Vortex Of Time”, and it serves as the perfect introduction to AEDAN SKY’s interstellar universe, a sweeping space opera built on the foundations of classic power metal. With high-speed riffs, majestic choirs, and soaring vocals, “Beyond The Vortex Of Time” delivers a powerful experience for fans of early Helloween, Gamma Ray, and Avantasia.
“Beyond The Vortex Of Time” captures the moment when the main character, SKY, is pulled through a vortex of light, transcending time and space and awakening to a new cosmic consciousness. It’s a dynamic and uplifting track, driven by speed, melody, and anthemic intensity.
The full album “The Universal Realm” is a concept work mixed and mastered by Simone Mularoni (Domination Studio), Artwork by Felipe Machado Franco.
“The Universal Realm” will be released on September 12th, 2025, and will be available on all digital platforms and in a CD Digipak. Pre-orders are now open at the following link
ALBUM PRE ORDER: https://rockshots.eu/products/aedan-sky-the-universal-realm-cd
FFO: early Helloween (“Walls of Jericho”, “Keeper of the Seven Keys”), late 90s Gamma Ray (“Land of the Free”, “Power Plant”), Avantasia’s “Metal Opera” era.
Track Listing:
1. Opening
2. Call of the Universe
3. A Kingdom to the Stars
4. Gate of Skies
5. Beyond the Vortex of Time
6. From the Ashes to the Light
7. Land of Paradise
8. Interlude
9. Illumination
10. The Universal Realm
Aedan Sky Line Up:
Vocal Cast / Characters
Sébastien Chabot: Lead Vocals as SKY
Bob Saliba: Lead Vocals as AEDAN
Thomas Schmitt: Lead Vocals as SKY’s Soul Musicians
Sébastien Chabot: Lead & Rhythm Guitars, Bass Guitar, Keyboards
Thomas Schmitt: Lead Guitar on track 4
Bob Saliba: Lead Guitar on track 9
Julien Digne: Piano on tracks 4 & 10
S.D.: Drums
KRATORNAS Unleashes “Evil and Plunder” w/ Next Single Off New Album “God Of The Tribes” Out Aug 2025
Mastered by Dan Swanö (Dissection, Bloodbath, Marduk, Incantation)
One-man extreme metal act Kratornas is unleashing the next single “Evil and Plunder” off the forthcoming full-length album “God of the Tribes”, mastered by Dan Swanö (Dissection, Bloodbath, Marduk, Incantation), and is set for release on August 22, 2025, through Grathila Records.
The track is a blistering 3-minute descent into ritualistic chaos and psychological warfare. Unlike the band’s earlier hyperfast brutality, this song embraces a slower, more instinctual pacing that feels like a ceremonial march through scorched earth. It trades blast beats for hypnotic grooves, creating tension through repetition and raw texture. Its lyrical themes evoke sacrificial rites, spiritual rebellion, and the collapse of false idols. Recorded without compression or metronome, the track pulses with primal energy and is meant to feel “alive” in the listener’s head.
Kratornas comments on the single:
“This is about the world falling apart, with endless creeping war and violence. “Demons” rise, plague spreads, and the idea of peace is nonexistent. The lyrics talk about secret societies and symbols of ownership hidden in plain sight, with people turned into slaves (as seen on the album cover). It depicts a world ruled by greed and cruelty, where religion and authority become tools for mass murder, and no one is spared from the upcoming slaughter.”
Watch and listen to the lyric video premiere for “Evil and Plunder” via NoCleanSinging HERE.
Kratornas’ upcoming album “God of the Tribes” marks a bold evolution in the band’s sonic identity, trading its signature hyperfast brutality for a more instinctual, ritualistic atmosphere. The album channels apocalyptic themes and tribal mysticism through raw, uncompressed production and unconventional instrumentation—including chimes, jaw harps, and fretless bass. Mastered by Dan Swanö, the record pulses with organic tension across four sprawling tracks, including the hypnotic “Evil and Plunder” and the previously previewed “Ravaged by Hurakaan.”“God of the Tribes” is less a collection of songs and more a confrontation—an instinct-driven descent into chaos that refuses to conform.
“I don’t know… If they’re expecting another “superfast brutality” or “sudden excitement,” this album will alienate most of them. Look, Kratornas is done. I’m retired, and I’ve been doing “fast” for the first 15 years, so it’s time to “evolve” and do whatever I want with it now. On this album, I used instruments that were new to me, like a 7-string guitar for L/R channels, a 6-string fretless bass, and more. It will disappoint them because this one is NOT “fast,” no blast beats, no power chords, no distorted fizzy guitars—none of that stuff will be heard here. It’s about “BUILD UP” this time. If listened to loud, it’s ENERGY, motivation, and aggressive behavior. If you sit down and listen with good headphones, it will bring out a different “experience” because the mix is “moving and breathing,” if that makes sense. Kratornas is created by an active person for another active person. It’s not meant to be “experienced” by some lethargic, depressed “dude” with “mental health” issues looking to experience some… “atmosphere.” Kratornas drives “function”: working out, contributing to the community, training, etc. I don’t get this “suicidal metal” experience. Never that I encouraged the “fans” to slump inside, watch TV all day, and eat Cheerios. NO! We sleep when we’re dead! If you’re a hyper person, then Kratornas is your jam!”
“With the upcoming release of God of the Tribes, extreme metal entity Kratornas returns from the abyss with a devastating new record that leans into ritualism, atmosphere, and unapologetic chaos. For over two decades, Kratornas has operated as a one-man war machine, who has consistently rejected conformity, trends, and convention.” – Crannk
“I think it’s a good thing that it is a bit darker for music this intense and with so much “action” in the upper midrange – Dan Swano (on mastering God of the Tribes)
“Kratornas has returned and have taken large steps in progression with their musical maelstrom of violence.” – Canadian Assault (2017 – Human Livestock 7″ EP)
“What’s even better is that the music doesn’t just move in the sense that a rocket moves. The songs are more than sheer exultations in the thrill of speed and violence. They also change course. They veer into hammering grooves; they bolt into bursts of blood-pumping thrash riffing; they pulse like some kind of laser weapon being triggered. Yes, the songs are often deranged — when Kratornas is in full grind mode, you can imagine oceans of blood spray ejected from a fire hose and bodies being atomized in a frenzied butchery — but there’s impressive intricacy and dynamism in the songs, as well as jaw-dropping technical skill and manifest blood lust.” – No Clean Singing (2016 – Devoured by Damnation LP)
“If you like chaotic, blasting Black Metal, then this is a good bet.” (2016 – Devoured by Damnation LP)
“This album is intense. From start to finish Kratornas is absolutely relentless and have put together one hell of an album with a whole lot of everything in the mix without sounding repetitive.” – Metal At The Gates (2016 – Devoured by Damnation LP)
“While its – drum and guitar/voice – format might suggest similarities with the Inquisition, in sound terms are two quite distinct entities. Here there is a greater degree of chaos and a greater departure from the traditional scene (second wave of black metal) than the one we can find ourselves in Inquisition. Basically it is what would happen if we join powerviolence with black metal. It is something that impresses, without a doubt, but that may have a tendency to tire. Fortunately this does not happen much here because all the themes end up having healthy dynamics, mainly a healthy rib of primitive death metal ( plus an element to join the party) and mainly a solo guitar taken from the breca that looks like a bouncing diabolite. Awesome and surprising album.” – World of Metal Mag (2016 – Devoured by Damnation LP)
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w/ BORN OF OSIRIS, HAVOK, GLYPH, RIOT CITY, THE BROWNING, VIRVUM and more!
Armstrong, BC, Canada – 15 Years of Mountain Moshing In The Okanagan!
“It’s one of the premier festivals of its kind in Canada, showcasing the biggest names in local, national, and international heavy metal music.” – Vancouver Sun
Celebrating 15 Years of mountain moshing in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, Armstrong MetalFest’s conquering 2025 lineup with BORN OF OSIRIS, HAVOK, GLYPH, RIOT CITY, THE BROWNING, VIRVUM, and lots more from across Canada and beyond will descend on Armstrong, BC on July 11th and 12th at the Hassen Arena, for two days of moshing, headbanging, and camping.
All tickets provide general admission and grant access to the festival grounds, camping area, and arena from 9:00 AM on Friday, July 11, 2025, until 10:00 AM on Sunday, July 13, 2025. Free camping is included.
Armstrong MetalFest 2025 Schedule
Headlining opening night, Friday, July 11th, Denver thrashers HAVOK are no strangers to the mosh pits, these veterans have unleashed five studio albums – Burn (2009), Time Is Up (2011), Unnatural Selection (2013), Conformicide (2017), V (2020) – and recently surprised fans this past November with the EP “New Eyes”. Music Video – Death Is An Illusion – https://youtu.be/hkUgz-DeFAo
Also supporting the Friday night stage, the Pacific Northwest’s Glyph (ft. members fromGatekeeper, Greyhawk, Hjelvik), which is not just a heavy metal band, they are a crew of intergalactic mercenaries escaping a dying planet in their spaceship, the VSS Dragonlord. Clearly, Glyph isn’t just writing songs, they’re building worlds and they bring it forth in their latest album “Honor, Power, Glory” released in March 2024. Lyric Video – March of the Northern Clan (feat. Nathan Harrison) – https://youtu.be/htSyUb25wD4
Another highlight for Friday is the screaming heavy metal from Calgary’s speed demons Riot City, who bring forth theirsteel, spikes, and leather! A youthful band that represents the new face of Canadian metal. An amalgam of ripping and hot heavy metal, created in pure and youthful madness, their bullet belts feature two full-length albums, “Electric Elite” (2022), “Burn The Night” (2019), and their latest live album, “Live in Newcastle” (2023). Album Stream – Electric Elite – https://youtu.be/j3hA1nrG7M0
Saturday, July 12th will be headlined by international tour de force, progressive deathcore titans, Chicago’s BORN OF OSIRIS. The group is signed to Sumerian Records and has released seven full-length albums and two EPs. Their album, A Higher Place, reached number 73 on the Billboard 200. Their second full-length album, The Discovery, debuted at 87 on the Billboard 200. The band unveiled their latest single “In Desolation” this past August. Visualizer – In Desolation – https://youtu.be/9OyMRRAq9fI
Also featured on Saturday is AMF alumni Kansas City’s THE BROWNING who will be unleashing their unique eclectic blend of electronicore and deathcore. This past November, they released their sixth album, “OMNI,” which features 10 powerful tracks, including collaborations with Nik Nocturnal and the eponymous song with THE DEFECT. Music Video – OMNI (feat. THE DEFECT) – https://youtu.be/VhyuduP3MdY
Performing for the first time at AMF and adding to the nostalgia of Saturday night, VIRVUM, progressive/technical death metal all the way from Zürich, Switzerland, that many in Canada have been waiting a long time to witness. There’s no better place to see them along with the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies than at AMF 2025. The Cypher Supreme – https://youtu.be/9W9Kp38I9yY
Other treasured highlights of this year’s fest not to miss are Montreal, QC up-and-coming thrashers DROWNING IN BLOOD, who are notorious pit mongers and have made quite a name for themselves in Eastern Canada. Vancouver’s GRAVEMASS might be a new band, but they feature some seriously experienced metalheads from Zimmers Hole, The Golers, Punch Drunk, 3 Inches of Blood, and Revocation. Switzerland’s technical death/black metal Stortregn delivers a mix of charging riffs, blast beats, and brutality that leaves the listener begging for more. The Defect is an electronic rock/metal project created by husband and wife duo – Jonny McBee (The Browning) and Moon McBee. Their debut album “Death X Destiny” was released on February 7, 2025, under the record label FiXT. From the Salish lands of Spokane, WA, Hísemtuks Hími•n introduces their Indigenous melodic black metal of hard-hitting riffs, fast-paced drumming, and a lot of melody. This project has strong roots in the Spokane Tribe/Nez Perce. Most songs are about Native American mythology, history, and folklore.
AMF 2025 Lineup:
Havok (Denver, CO)
Born of Osiris (Chicago, IL)
Glyph (Seattle, WA)
Riot City (Calgary, AB)
The Browning (Kansas City, KS)
Virvum (Zürich, Switzerland)
Atavistia (Vancouver, BC)
Drowning In Blood (Montreal, QC)
Convictions (Fremont, OH)
Scalding (Vancouver, BC)
Syryn (Calgary, AB)
Stortregn (Geneva, Switzerland)
The Defect (Kansas City, KS)
Gravemass (Vancouver, BC)
Lover (Calgary, AB)
Yegg (Vancouver Island, BC)
Hísemtuks Hími•n (Spokane, WA)
The Spruce Moose (Edmonton, AB)
Volt (Fort McMurray, AB)
Jisei (Vancouver, BC)
Nomad (Okanagan Valley, BC)
Planetkiller (Kelowna, BC)
Shackled To The Throne (Edmonton, AB)
The Cadavor Dog (High River, AB)
Famous Strangers (Edmonton, AB)
Valley of Despair (Edmonton, AB)
Naitaka (Kelowna, BC)
FloodGate (Kelowna, BC)
In addition to the performing bands, Armstrong Metal Fest is bringing back the following on-site activities: Yeti Games, Metal Madness Market, and Thrash Wrestling.
Please Note: Camping – RV / Non-Hookup RV / Vehicle Passes: Make sure to reserve your vehicle spot to get the best location on the grounds. A fee is required for a weekend pass per vehicle in addition to your day or weekend pass. RV hookups include water and power. If you choose to park your vehicle outside the camping area in the main parking lot, then a vehicle pass is not required.
About: Since 2009 (minus pause years 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid pandemic), West Metal Entertainment and Armstrong Metalfest have not only fostered the talent of hundreds of local bands, but have imported well-known, international acts to the quiet, little Canadian town of Armstrong, British Columbia.
Each year hundreds of metal music fans from Canada and the USA descend into the picturesque Okanagan Valley and under the blistering sun, they spend three days camping, taking in a tonne of heavy metal fun over two days, spectating wrestling events, participating in scavenger hunts, and catching up with their extended metal family.
The festival has seen such renowned headliners as Kataklysm, Cattle Decapitation, Archspire, Nekrogoblikon, Origin, Rivers of Nihil, Warbinger, Fallujah, Striker, and Beyond Creation as well as emerging artists from across North America. At the end of the revelry, the festival disappears without a trace, leaving the landscape as pristine as it has always been.
West Metal Entertainment is a non-profit society that not only puts on the Armstrong Metal Festival every year in Armstrong, B.C. but also gives bands opportunities to play at different venues throughout the region including all-ages shows, to encourage musical passion in kids as well as adults.
Partners:
WCMFA
AlumaPro Welding & Fabrication Ltd
Vox and Hops
Rancho Vignola
Creative BC
Province of BC
Shepherds Hardware
Askews Foods
ACE Containers
Asher Media Relations
Staggs Head
Sunbelt Rentals
Bravewords
V13
Metal-Rules
Absolute Underground Mag
Broken Neck Radio
Ghost Cult Magazine
This Day In Metal
Valstar Electric
Voets
What the press is saying:
“Armstrong Metalfest brings aggressive music to the North Okanagan” – Global BC News
Kelowna Now: Armstrong Metal Festival Co-founder reflects on a decade of metal – Video Interview here.
CHBC – Global Okanagan: Metalheads celebrate a decade of gathering in Armstrong – Video Interview here.
Global Okanagan – Armstrong Metalfest brings aggressive music to the North Okanagan – Video here.
“In the past, metalheads had to travel to Germany to experience the rush of a big festival, such as Wacken Open Air. But local headbangers decided to bring that feeling home with Armstrong Metalfest.” – Vernon Morning Star
“Go Big or Stay at Home: Armstrong has that welcoming feeling for a rock show.” – The Valley Voice
“To witness such a gathering of talent is an absolute privilege, and for that fact alone, I will certainly be returning to Armstrong Metal Fest.” – Beatroute BC
“This festival is now going to be my yearly must-go-to event and if you’re a metal head that hasn’t attended or a curious metal voyeur, do yourself a favour and check it out, you will not regret it.” – Abort Mag
“The Armstrong Metalfest is one such event and has grown from its initial, humble beginnings seven years ago to be a regular mainstay, with its south-central BC location making for a popular summertime destination for fans and bands alike.” – Decibel Mag
Named one of the out-of-town music festivals worth the trip by The Vancouver Sun
“For metalheads, this is a great vacation where groups of all sizes can enjoy their favourite musical genre in a fun, energized environment. Not to mention, the camping!” – The Permanent Rain Press
“From farm to stadium: Armstrong Metal Fest’s humble beginnings” – Info News
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Canada’s DOLL Sinks Teeth into “Shark Bait” as New EP “Better Days, Different Times” Drops July 18th
Canadian alt-rock powerhouse DOLL is making waves this summer with the release of their biting new single “Shark Bait”, arriving just as the world celebrates the 50th anniversary of Steven Spielberg’s iconic thriller Jaws.
The timing is no coincidence, though it might feel like fate. “Shark Bait” is a snarling, doom-tinged anthem that channels the same primal fear and survival instinct that made Jaws a cultural phenomenon. With razor-sharp riffs and frontwoman Christina Kasper’s haunting vocals, the track explores emotional predators and the fight to stay afloat in a world full of teeth.
“Shark Bait was a fun song that we came up with after playing around with some hardcore style riffing and our passion for the Jaws movies. We have always had a strong attraction to shark movies, and when Pete came up with the riff for the chorus, it just felt so right with the “Shark Bait” vocals, everything was clicking, and we just went for it,” says Christina Kasper.
“Shark Bait” is the second track from their highly anticipated EP, “Better Days, Different Times”, set for release on July 18, 2025.
The new EP marks a bold evolution for DOLL, who first made waves with their 2009 debut “Inside the Dollhouse” and 2011’s “The Ragdoll Diaries”. “Better Days, Different Times” represents a significant evolution in both sound and approach, incorporating new collaborators and instruments while maintaining the raw, honest edge that has defined Doll since their inception. Core songwriting duo Christina and Pete have expanded their creative process, bringing in local Ottawa musicians and even a cellist to add depth and new textures to their established sound.
Doll is recommended for fans of Nobro, SoftCult, Amyl and the Sniffers, and The Pretty Reckless.
Track Listing:
1. Bleeding – 4:32
2. Shark Bait – 3:07
3. Smoke on the Water – 4:26
4. Scene Dream – 4:28
5. Ends Like This – 3:24
6. Goodbye – 3:27
Album Length: 23:29
Album Credits:
All songs performed by: Doll
All songs written by: Doll
Produced by: Josh Hart, Jason Jaknunas
Mixed by: Josh Hart
Mastered by: Josh Hart
Album Artwork by: Mark Kidd
Album Lineup
Guitar: Pete Kasper
Guitar, Vocals, Bass: Christina
Drums: Chris Zimmerman – Smoke on the Water,
Josh Hart – All the Rest
Cello: Raphael Weinroth-Browne
Keys: Phil Campbell
Extra Guitars : Athanasios Maravelis
“The Rag Doll Diaries” is the story of a road weary/world weary band with so much to say and share. Its the combination on heartache and despair offered with a hand meant for holding. In other words here is real music for the real world.” – Heavy Metal Time Machine (2013 – The Ragdoll Diaries)
“Doll was conceived as a bridge between punk and rock, a bridge that was fulfilled in the early ’90s by bands like Nirvana and the mid-’90s by Foo Fighters… A good punk band doesn’t write about the joys of picking daisies and Doll is no exception.” – The Whig Standard (Kingston, ON) (2013)
“Doll provides a missing link between punk and rock.” – The Intelligencer (Belleville, ON) (2013)
“The four-piece are definitely reminiscent of the grunge era and have provided a concise four-word biography of the band: “Rock N’ Fucking Roll.” – Exclaim! (2011 – The Ragdoll Diaries)
“One of the most striking aspects of Inside The Dollhouse, after Christina’s whiskey-and-hell voice, is a fictional character by the name of Sally created to carry the songs. A concept completely unexpected given the band’s twentysomething youth, immediately reminiscent of Alice Cooper’s infamous character Steven, introduced on Welcome To My Nightmare in 1975.” – Bravewords (2010 – Inside the Dollhouse)
“The debut from Ottawa’s Doll caught me instantly like a fish on a hook. This is serious music. Dark, intense and magnetic, this is the kind of gritty ’90s grunge that doesn’t fuck around. Fronted by the vocally vicious Christina Kasper, Doll recall an angry and confused era of music devoid of pop but not catchiness. Kasper howls in the vein of Courtney Love and Brodi Dalle, and while the lyrics are simple and not exactly fresh, they are impacting. Songs like “Perfect” deal with trying to live up to society’s standards, while “Sally Lost Her Shoelaces” and “Daddy’s Little Girl” deal with hurt, confusion and heroin against a backdrop of chunky guitars, assaulting drums and badass attitude. Julie-Anne Madore’s backing vocals add a whispered, haunting feel to this record. If the dirty rock’n’roll alone doesn’t reel you in, nothing will.” – Exclaim (2009 – Inside the Dollhouse)
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Out Now! Enter the Realm of RIMMAR w/ Debut Album “Raises” + New Video “Mighty Messenger” ft. Fabio Lione (Rhapsody of Fire, Angra)
RIMMAR, the audacious solo project of Italian guitarist and producer Marco Rinaldi, has officially dropped its long-awaited debut album “Raises”—now streaming worldwide on all major platforms.
Blending the raw power of industrial and progressive metal with melodic finesse, “Raises” is an atmospheric ride through epic soundscapes, haunting vocals, and virtuosic guitar work. The release is accompanied by a brand-new music video for the single “Mighty Messenger”, featuring a spectacular vocal performance by symphonic metal icon Fabio Lione (Rhapsody of Fire, Angra).
Filmed with cinematic flair, “Mighty Messenger” explores themes of destiny and defiance, fusing Lione’s soaring vocals with Rinaldi’s thunderous instrumentation. The video’s dystopian visuals echo the album’s concept of personal evolution and universal struggle.
Rimmar is not a conventional band but a one-man artistic endeavor shaped entirely by Marco Rinaldi. His creative process begins with a riff or rhythm, eventually evolving into fully orchestrated arrangements through the use of synths, pads, and layered textures. His lyrics draw inspiration from readings, philosophical thought, and vivid dreams, always serving the music rather than leading it. As Rinaldi says, “The word is a servant of music in my case.”
The album “Raises” features a cast of exceptional guest performers from the Italian metal scene. Among them, Fabio Lione (Rhapsody of Fire, Angra) appears on two tracks (“Mighty Messenger” and “Vortex”), along with Kyo Calati (MindAheaD), Marco Andreotti (Imagine Dragons tribute), Mattia Fagiolo (White Thunder, Dragonhammer) and Alessandro Cola (Eldritch)—each lending their voice and energy to the project.
On stage, Rimmar becomes a full live band composed of experienced musicians from the Italian scene, delivering performances that merge metal’s impact with the visual and rhythmic elements of electronic dance.
Whether you’re into the genre-defying swagger of Devin Townsend or the mechanized punch of Rammstein, “Raises” deserves a front-row spot in your playlist.
Bottom – L-R – Fred Barros (Guitar), Diego Santiago (Bass)
Photography: Kevin Eisenlord, Anderson Hildebrando
Brazilian extreme metal visionaries Ophiolatry have unveiled a lyric video for “Revenge”, a standout track from their recently released album “Serpent’s Verdict”. The video offers fans a deeper look into the thematic core of a powerful and devastating album. The band shares the inspiration for the track:
“This song was inspired by a true event that occurred in the United Kingdom, where a woman killed her husband by placing boiling water mixed with sugar in her husband’s mouth when he was sleeping. She did so in an act of revenge after discovering accusations of child sexual abuse.”
“Revenge” exemplifies the album’s exploration of indigenous spirituality and historical vengeance, drawing from a particularly chilling real-life event connected to the band’s history. The track tells the story of a criminal who abused a small child and was subsequently hunted by the victim’s parent along with indigenous warriors, only to meet a fate where a massive snake swallowed him whole before regurgitating him, a story that directly inspired the band’s name, Ophiolatry, which refers to snake worship.
This lyric video presents these narratives through striking visual elements that complement the band’s combination of technical brutality and tribal-influenced rhythms, allowing viewers to fully absorb the depth of storytelling that sets “Serpent’s Verdict” apart from conventional death metal releases.
“Serpent’s Verdict” is living, breathing, an invocation of the past, and a battle cry for the future. This artistic vision offers both longtime fans and newcomers alike an opportunity to engage with the mythological and historical foundations that inform Ophiolatry‘s unique approach to extreme metal. It is recommended for fans of Death, Deicide, and Suffocation.
Watch and listen to the lyric video for “Revenge” via its premiere on NoCleanSinging HERE.
Album Recording Credits:
All songs performed and composed by Ophiolatry.
Mastering: Dan Swanö – http://www.unisound.se
Artwork: LouLou – http://www.louloufineart.com
Pre-Production: Steve Rumpli & Ophiolatry
Production, Recording & Mixing: Diego Santiago
Studio: Satori Estudio
Photography: Kevin Eisenlord, Anderson Hildebrando
Graphic Layout: Beto Mustafa
Album Band Line Up:
Jaime Veron – Lead Vocals
Diego Santiago – Bass
George “Dog” Duarte – Drums
Fred Barros – Guitars
“On this new record, the band bring their traditonal Brazilian influence and their heavy, atmospheric approach together to create something new. All the songs on the record come together to tell a story. ” – Decibel Magazine (2025 – Seprent’s Verdict)
“Blending technical brutality with tribal rhythms and ritualistic atmosphere, “Jesus Complex” tackles themes of religious indoctrination and spiritual hypocrisy. Serpent’s Verdict marks Ophiolatry’s long-awaited return following 2008’s Transmutation.” – Metal Insider (2025 – Seprent’s Verdict)
“One good turn deserves another and so having punched us full in the face with first single “Death Tour“, Brazilian Death Metal force Ophiolatry kick us in the guts with “Jesus Complex“. Both tracks take pride of place on the bands upcoming new album “Serpent’s Verdict“, a 6th June release via WormHoleDeath Records. Introducing views to the ritualistic atmosphere that is said to run through the album, the track explores themes of religious manipulation and spiritual corruption with tribal rhythms adding to the bands signature technical brutality.” – Metal Noise (2025 – Seprent’s Verdict)
“Each song adds something unique or subtly deviates from the previous one, underscoring the band’s versatility and craftsmanship. With ‘Serpent’s Verdict’, Ophiolatry proves that they are completely back – stronger, deeper, and more creative than ever. 9/10” – Arrow Lords of Metal (2025 – Seprent’s Verdict)
““Serpent’s Verdict” of Ophiolatry it’s the new face of the band, it’s unlike any of their past albums, and that’s best of all, Death Metal with a 90s flavor, but it has all the power of our times in style, and with that you are already guaranteed many pogo and monstrous parts on your speakers. Very good. 8.7/10” – Hardsounds.it (2025 – Seprent’s Verdict)
“the new guitarist smokes and shreds with a fury and the new vocalist is perfectly suited for this style.” – Mystification Zine (2025 – Seprent’s Verdict)
“Brutal death metal, a smidge of a blackened death too” – WORT 89.9 FM – The Mosh Pit (Madison, WI) (2025 – Seprent’s Verdict)
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DYING AWKWARD ANGEL Release New Single “9.99” – A Bleak Reflection On The Value of Life
New Album “The Missing Frame” Out August 22nd, 2025 via Rockshots Records
Italian melodic death metal act Dying Awkward Angel unveil their latest single “9.99” taken from their upcoming album “The Missing Frame” out next August 22nd, 2025, via Rockshots Records.
“9.99” is a fierce and unrelenting track that dives headfirst into the moral abyss of modern society, posing a disturbing question: how much is a human life worth? Combining razor-sharp riffing and ominous atmospheres with a crushing groove, the song channels the relentless energy of classic Swedish death metal while delivering a powerful commentary on the commodification of violence.
Influenced by genre-defining acts such as At The Gates, Carcass, and Dark Tranquillity, Dying Awkward Angel blends their old-school roots with a modern sensibility, crafting songs that are both brutal and deeply reflective. “9.99” adds another layer of depth to the band’s already diverse sonic arsenal, reinforcing their ability to balance aggression and melody with lyrical substance. Lyrically written by Davide Onida, the track explores themes of nihilism, despair, and systemic dehumanization in a world where life can be extinguished for the cost of the cheapest gun.
Following the acclaimed singles “The Magical World of the Dead” and “Music Kills”, “9.99” offers a third glimpse into “The Missing Frame“, an album that marks the band’s return with renewed ferocity and sharpened intent.
Recorded at Bottleneck Studios in Torino, mixed and mastered by Davide Onida and featuring cover art by Fabrizio Durigon and Federica Dall’Omo “Arièlika”, the new material captures the band’s vision in its most intense form to date.
LISTEN “9.99“ atthe following links:
Track Listing:
1. The Ecstasy of God (Instrumental)
2. Black Waves
3. The Fallen
4. Music Kills
5. 9.99
6. Raptus
7. YOU MUST DIE!
8. Blinded
9. Skin and Bones
10. The Inner Paradox
11. Out of Mind (R’lyeh)
12. A Promise
13. The Missing Frame (Instrumental)
ABOUT:
Dying Awkward Angel is an Italian melodic death metal band formed in 1998 by guitarist Edoardo Demuro and drummer Ivan Longo. Influenced by the ferocity and melody of the ‘90s extreme metal scene—drawing from the Gothenburg sound as well as UK and US death and thrash metal—the band quickly developed a distinctive style that blends raw aggression, dark atmospheres, and introspective lyricism.
After two well-received demos (Dying Awkward Angel, 200,2, and Ghost at the Spine, 2004), the band released their first full-length “Waiting for Punishment” in 2013, followed by the EP “Madness Rising” (2015), showcasing a more mature and dynamic approach to songwriting. In 2018, Dying Awkward Angel released “Absence of Light” through Rockshots Records / Extreme Metal Music, gaining praise from international press and expanding their reach across Europe, the USA, and Japan.
Having shared the stage with acts like Decapitated, Impaled Nazarene, Necronomicon, Forgotten Tomb, Keno,s and Node, the band is known for delivering uncompromising live performances and intense musicality.
In 2024 and 2025, the singles “The Magical World of the Dead“, “Music Kills“, and “9.99” marked the band’s powerful return, leading up to the release of their new album “The Missing Frame“, due out on August 22nd, 2025, via Rockshots Records. This new chapter reflects a more focused and violent sonic identity—one that remains faithful to the Swedish melodeath tradition while embracing a darker, more deliberate production.
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Out Now! Black Metal Storytellers MARGANTHA Debut EP “Blood Moon Sacrifice”
+ New Music Video “Miriam And The Endless Night (ft. Andy LaRoque)”
Rockshots Records proudly announces the official release of “Blood Moon Sacrifice”, the debut EP from Finnish-Italian black metal act MARGANTHA, available today on all digital platforms.
Rooted in myth, fear, and ritual, “Blood Moon Sacrifice” is more than just a collection of songs—it’s a narrative journey steeped in dark folklore and haunting atmosphere. The EP unfolds around the legend of a werewolf that terrorizes a secluded hunters’ village beneath a remote mountain range, channeling the emotional tension, primal fear, and descent into hysteria that defines the story.
Each track serves as a chapter in this tale:
“Blood Moon Sacrifice” opens the story with a dark waltz-like cadence, evoking the atmosphere of an ancient forest. During a solitary hunt, the protagonist is bitten, sealing the origin of the curse. Two instrumental interludes—bass and drums—heighten the track’s unsettling tone, making it feel like the soundtrack to a twisted fairy tale.
“Wolves at the Door” marks the creature’s approach to the village. This is no pack—but a lone, primordial predator whose thirst rivals that of many. Opening with a dark yet exotic riff and evolving through a melodic death metal core, the track balances blackened aggression, speed, and melody in a cinematic, dynamic form.
“Miriam and the Endless Night” (feat. Andy LaRocque) shifts perspective. Told through the eyes of a woman trapped in an endless night of terror, the song moves from eerie, unorthodox harmonies into a vortex of riffs and violence. Andy LaRocque (King Diamond) adds his signature touch where bloodlust and survival collide.
“Curse of the Full Moon” concludes the cycle with a hypnotic 6/8 ballad that depicts the protagonist’s full transformation. With elongated tempos, obsessive rhythms, and oppressive harmonies, the track channels the ritualistic core of classic black metal—slow, relentless, and introspective.
Driven by evocative riffs, atmospheric layering, and a primordial vocal delivery, MARGANTHA’s music balances black metal’s raw essence with moments of melody, tension, and dynamic pacing. As the band explains:
“We start from the story. Every riff, every rhythm is designed to serve the narrative. We’re not interested in technical excess—our focus is atmosphere, cohesion, and emotion.”
The entire EP was mixed and mastered by Andy LaRocque (King Diamond) at Sonic Train Studio, giving the record a powerful and precise sound while preserving its shadowy intensity.
Influenced by the cinematic dread of Mgła, the emotional fire of Uada and Gaerea, and the timeless aggression of Venom, Behemoth, and Celtic Frost, MARGANTHA builds a sound that is immersive, urgent, and steeped in meaning.
With “Blood Moon Sacrifice”, MARGANTHA mark their official debut—a work that merges ancient horror with the raw force of contemporary black metal. For fans of narrative-driven metal, hypnotic atmospheres, and unrelenting darkness, this is a first chapter worth embracing.
BIOGRAPHY:
Margantha is an Italian-Finnish band formed by three musicians united by a passion for black metal and horror aesthetics. The project aims to create a powerful, evocative, and dramatic sound inspired by bands like Mgła, Ensiferum, Behemoth, and 1349, while incorporating atmospheric and melodic elements into their approach.
The band’s sound is a haunting and captivating tribute to black metal, enriched with lyrics inspired by horror and Gothic atmospheres reminiscent of the 19th century. Their music evokes a journey into the darkest and most mysterious corners of the soul, characterized by somber tones and lyrics that delve into the macabre and the supernatural.
Margantha draws inspiration from art in all its forms: from the literature of Bram Stoker, Mary Shelley, and Stevenson, to the paintings of Caravaggio, Bosch, and Turner. The band’s visual identity also reflects this artistic inclination, with carefully crafted photos designed to mimic the style of classical paintings, aligning with the dark and ominous atmospheres central to the project.
Born from the union of two distinct cultures, Italian and Finnish, Margantha blends the musical and artistic traditions of both countries to create a unique sonic experience.
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“Dense, atmospheric, professional: MARGANTHA deliver a narratively strong debut for fans of melodic black metal. 4/5” – MetalUnderground.at
“The EP is focused, direct, and built around a clear vision. Blood Moon Sacrifice is a strong debut, highly recommended and a welcome new addition to the black metal scene.” – Decibel Warfare
“The Blood Moon Sacrifice EP is a promising first release. ” – MetalTalk
“With Blood Moon Sacrifice, Margantha carves out their space in black metal’s ever-twisting labyrinth. They’re theatrical, shadow-soaked, and conceptually unshakable. The beast may be myth, but the impact is real.” – Amplify The Noise
“Soaked in the blood of Scandinavian Black Metal purveyors from the past “Blood Moon Sacrifice” combines atmospheric synths with fierce vocals in brutally majestic story telling.” – Metal Noise
“Margantha: ‘Blood Moon Sacrifice’ Marks Bold Entry into Black Metal’s Narrative Form” – Atmosfear-Entertainment
“This is a solid debut EP for Margantha” – Heavy Music HQ
“Margantha are a very great sounding atmospheric black metal band and if you are a fan of this musical genre, you should check out this ep. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE “Blood Moon Sacrifice” and “Wolves At The Door”. 8 out of 10.” – Occult Black Metal Zine
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Edmonton, Canada’s Famous Strangers, unravels their new music video for their latest single “L.S.C.” as they gear up for perfmances at this year’s festival appearances at Armstrong Metal Fest (Armstrong, BC – July 11-12) and Loud As Hell Open Air (Drumheller, AB – Aug 1-3) along with upcoming tour dates to be announced.
As one of the first songs that all four of them in Famous Strangers wrote together from start to finish, the track is raw and intense. It represents exactly where they are as a band right now: fearless in their songwriting and unafraid to blend melody with brutality.
“L.S.C. is meant to take you on a ride. It starts soft, like it is letting you in slowly, and then it flips the switch. The heaviness hits out of nowhere. It grabs you, shakes you, and then drags you through the rest of the track without letting go. It eases you in, then completely takes over, and by the time it is done, it feels like it has drained the life out of you in the best way,” adds guitarist Jeff Kittilitz.
Lyrically, the song is told from the perspective of a female figure who is part human and part spider. It is inspired by the mating behavior of black widows, where attraction, intimacy, and destruction all collide. At its core, it is about obsession, power, and survival. It speaks to the emotional weight of wanting something that was never meant to be yours, and the strength it takes to pull yourself back from that edge.
“What we hope is that this song opens people up a little, even if it’s not what they usually listen to. There’s so much music out there that people miss out on because they’re stuck in one genre or one mindset. We’re trying to break through that and just write what feels real, no matter what it sounds like. We are about being fearless in our songwriting. Put everything on the table, be yourself, and don’t hold back. That’s the energy they’re trying to give people when they press play,” says Kittilitz.
Famous Strangers has had a healthy and steady evolution. Since their earlier singles in 2024, Famous Strangers have started to lock in with each other creatively and naturally found a sound that they can all stand behind. It flows and feels more cohesive, and everyone in the band feeds off each other in a way that keeps pushing the songs to a new level.
Watch and listen to the music video for “L.S.C.” via its premiere on Decibel Magazine HERE.
About: Since their formation in 2023, Famous Strangers‘ signature blend of haunting melodies, powerful vocals, and immersive soundscapes has captivated listeners. The band brings together accomplished musicians whose past experiences in various musical projects have shaped their collective sound. Their diverse influences converge in a unique sonic experience characterized by atmospheric instrumentals and a dynamic vocal approach that seamlessly shifts between melodic and aggressive. They are recommended for fans of Halestorm, Judas Priest, Dio, and Arch Enemy.
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“Haunting, Stirring and Impactful…those words just keep going through our mind as we take in the new single “I’ll See You In The Stars” from Famous Strangers. This one is quite unique with a powerful intensity that is full of rhythm and achieves the rare feat of fury as a pure form of beauty. We really dig this one and you can catch it on your Home for the Best New Rock…” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll
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Photo Credit – Megan Rose // Instagram @mrosedesigner
After years of dedication to their craft, USA’s metalcore outfit Jawfane has officially released their debut EP “Me and All My Demons” via Exitus Stratagem Records. The six-track collection represents the culmination of the band’s journey from DIY beginnings to a refined musical force that defies easy categorization. The band shares their excitement for the release:
“We are absolutely beyond words for how excited we are to bring our first collection of songs into the world with and through Exitus Stratagem Records. It has been an absolute privilege working with Gordon, Jason, and the team to bring “Me And All My Demons” to life. This record is a personal journey for Jawfane. Sonically, we brought the hammer, lyrically we brought a bigger hammer, and we intend to beat out a place in the world for us and our brand of Metal-core.”
“Me and All My Demons” is a deeply personal record, drawing from the lived experiences of each band member. They anticipate that it will be received with an open mind to metal and what it can be when you are angry, but also determined to find the beautiful things in this life.
The EP showcases Jawfane‘s unique collaborative process, where traditional roles are often subverted: guitarists writing bass parts, bassists writing guitar parts, instrumental sections evolving into vocal melodies. This fluid approach to composition results in music that feels both technically impressive and emotionally authentic.
Though the band acknowledges their sound has elements of post-hardcore, metal-core, and even mathcore, they prefer to let the music speak for itself, promising that they will continue to evolve and change as they grow and no matter what genre they end up in, they’d like to think it will always sound like them.
“Me and All My Demons” aims to create a genuine connection with listeners. It is recommended for fans of King 810, Wage War, and The Ghost Inside.
Track Listing:
1. Damaged Goods – 3:48
2. Cataclysm (Nightmare) – 2:42
3. Me and All My Demons – 3:46
4. Friends and Enemies – 3:20
5. Time Hunts Us All – 4:01
EP Length: 17:39
“What a privilege to listen to an EP that is flawless and filled with brilliance. Jawfane is the real deal. See them live and experience the captivating performance of the songs.” – Project Metal Music
“If you like what you hear from rising Metalcore act Jawfane with their new single “Time Hunts Us All” then we can warn you that their debut EP “Me and All My Demons” is pencilled in for a 26th June via Exitus Stratagem Records grand unveiling. A five track affair that fulfils a mission statement to create music that offers “a boisterous, chaotic and clarifying genuine catharsis“, the band claim it was built on the foundation of crafting through an organic and democratic process.” – Metal Noise
“Raw, cathartic expressions” – Flight of Pegasus
“It is that raw and cathartic expression that really does make this EP stand out as Jawfane pour so much passion into delivering a heavy sound that combines the best of hardcore’s stomp and metalcore’s anthemic ways. Yet, if that wasn’t enough to make this a notable EP, Jawfane add in some cinematic vibes. The end result is an EP genuinely worth shouting about…. Jawfane have arrived and with this EP, left one hell of an impression.” – Games, Brrrains & A Head-Banging Life
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