Category: Music News

0 Saskatoon’s PYTHONIC Sheds Its Skin w/ New EP “Laws of Karma” Out July 2026; Streaming Single “Sentience” + Western Canada Tour Support w/ Exit Wound

May 29, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Pythonic

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 29, 2026

Saskatoon’s PYTHONIC Sheds Its Skin w/ New EP “Laws of Karma” Out July 2026

Streaming Single “Sentience” + Western Canada Tour Support w/ Exit Wound

L-R – Ryan Hunter (Lead Guitar), Morgan Warriner (Vocals), Max Hiske (Bass), Vincent Kohut (Rhythm Guitar & Backing Vocals), Jayden Warriner (Drums)

Saskatoon, Canada’s Pythonic return in 2026 with “Laws of Karma,” their heaviest and most personal release to date. Arriving July 10th, the EP marks the band’s third chapter following 2025’s “Decomposition” and 2024’s “EP01”, pushing their signature death‑groove sound into darker, more aggressive territory. The first single, “Sentience,” is streaming now.

Rising from the ashes of their previous lineup, Pythonic have rebuilt themselves into a tighter, more ferocious unit, aggressive, groovy, raw, thick, and dirty. The new EP captures that evolution with revamped tracks, sharpened performances, and a renewed focus on emotional intensity and extreme heaviness.

“These songs mark the true step forward for Pythonic. Even the ‘worst’ track on the EP is still a killer. We’re driving the death‑groove harder than ever,” says the band.

“Laws of Karma” delivers five tracks forged from hardship, recovery, and personal transformation, written during periods of physical limitation, disability, and emotional turmoil. The EP captures Pythonic’s resilience and their determination to create music that moved others, even when they themselves could not. Musically, the record pushes deeper into death‑metal and slam territory while holding tight to the groove‑driven backbone that defines the band, resulting in tighter rhythms, heavier riffs, ripping solos, and vocals that swing between grit, terror, and raw catharsis.

At its core, “Laws of Karma” is the final evolution of older, unrecorded material, now rewritten, re‑lyricized, and reborn through the current lineup. Tracks like “Venom,” “Set You Free,” “Feed the Flames,” and the title track channel deeply personal experiences, religious critique, abusive relationships, supernatural horror, and the consequences of one’s actions. The EP’s artwork, created by @apocalyptic.nuke, depicts a figure impaled on a liberty scale in a hellscape, a stark visual metaphor for karmic justice that ties directly into the record’s themes.

“This is the first set of music that is fully me. We made music to make you move when we ourselves at times could not,” says vocalist Morgan.

The lead single “Sentience” is Pythonic at their most emotionally charged. Written after guitarist Vincent returned from a nearly two‑year hiatus caused by injury, the track channels existential dread, rebirth, and the struggle to reclaim one’s identity. Lyrically, the song explores the chaos of awakening, questioning reality, confronting internal contradictions, and wrestling with the burden of awareness.

“It’s as though sentience itself is calling out to you, telling you that you can’t escape it,” adds the band.

The track’s head‑banging verse riff, crushing chorus breakdown, and standout vocal performance from Morgan make it one of the band’s strongest singles to date.

Listen to “Sentience” at the following links:

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/0sgsoKfdkUTIGRKggTPNf3?si=7fb02f34759645b8

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymCFKjZ5tX0

In additional news, Pythonic will join Calgary’s Exit Wound for select Western Canada dates, bringing their destructive live energy to new cities. Known for their tight performances and explosive crowd response, Pythonic continue to build a reputation as one of Saskatchewan’s most intense rising acts.

Tour Dates (with Exit Wound):
May 28 – Regina, SK – The Exchange (Club Side)
May 29 – The Pas, MB – Venue TBA
May 30 – Brandon, MB – The Hall
May 31 – Winnipeg, MB – Sidestage
June 5 – Calgary, AB – The Rock Shop
June 6 – Edmonton, AB – Starlite Room (Temple Stage)

Track Listing:
1. Laws of Karma (3:17)
2. Feed The Flames (3:52)
3. Set You Free (4:07)
4. Sentience (4:36)
5. Venom (2:59)
EP Length: 18:51

EP recording credits:
All songs performed by Pythonic
All songs written by Pythonic
Produced by Pythonic
Mixed by Reid Paraszczynec / Lucid Distortion Audio
Mastered by Reid Paraszczynec / Lucid Distortion Audio
Album Artwork by Apocalyptic Nuke

EP and Live Lineup:
Morgan Warriner – Lead Vocals
Ryan Hunter – Lead Guitar
Vincent Kohut – Rhythm Guitar and Backing Vocals
Max Hiske – Bass
Jayden Warriner – Drums

More info:

https://www.facebook.com/pythonicband

https://instagram.com/pythonicband

About: Pythonic is a Canadian death‑groove band known for their crushing riffs, relentless energy, and emotionally charged lyricism. Influenced by Lamb of God, Black Dahlia Murder, Death, Morbid Angel, Devildriver, Pantera, and modern slam, the band continues to evolve toward a heavier, more extreme sound. Their live shows are defined by precision, intensity, and a connection with the crowd that consistently sparks movement, even as the opening act.

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“Pythonic’s Decomposition EP: Rebuilt, Refined, and Ridiculously Relentless” – North Sask Music Zine

“A nice blast of heaviness to see out the year. Pythonic throw their all into delivering a memorable showcase of thrashing death metal. An EP of five tracks that shows off plenty of creativity, has moments of exciting flair, and undeniably delivers the hefty ‘one-two’ punch of death crossed with thrash metal. 8/10” – Games, Brrraaains and A Head-Banging Life (Decomposition – 2025)

“PYTHONIC does command respect. The way they have approached the music is impressive. I hear Metalcore, I get Metal Hardcore, I receive Groove metal and I hear Heavy Metal. Sometimes one of the four, at other times two or more of the four ingredients on offer. And what is even more impressive; they work well together.8/10” – Metal Temple (Decomposition – 2025)

“Pythonic assuredly on fine footing based on the reinterpretation of older songs for Decomposition. Strap yourself in for a modern mix of groove metal with thrash, death, and metalcore components which leaves you battered, bruised, and craving more.8/10” – Dead Rhetoric

“The first thing that grabs you about this second stab in the dark from Pythonic is Warriner’s shrill screams which are as nasty as a low budget horror movie from the 1980’s but in a good way. That’s not to say he doesn’t have a death growl of course but it’s not all that deep, his preference being to shred your ear canals as he screeches like a lunatic awaiting asylum on opening gambit “Guiltfeeder“. A track with a sinister urge and classy bit of lead towards the end from Hunter, it’s something that has that classic Morbid Angel about it while there can be little doubt the band love a bit of Swedish Death Metal.” – Metal Noise

““EP 1” is a testament to Pythonic‘s dedication to their craft and their refusal to be confined by sub-genre limitations. Each song is a blend of technical prowess and raw emotion, offering listeners a chance to experience the full spectrum of the band’s capabilities. It is recommended for fans of Machine Head, Trivium and Pantera.” – Metal-Rules (EP01 – 2024)

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0 Edmonton’s FAMOUS STRANGERS Unveils Explosive Single “Ghosts of Men”

May 29, 2026
by Asher
· Famous Strangers · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 29, 2026

Edmonton’s FAMOUS STRANGERS Unveils Explosive Single “Ghosts of Men”

L-R – Amanda Kiernan (Vocals), Brian Jolly aka “Beej” Beejerson (Drums), Braden Sustrik (Bass, Vocals), Jeff Kittlitz (Guitar, Vocals)

Photo by J-Kiernen Photography

Edmonton, Canada’s heavy rock force, Famous Strangers, unveils the explosive single “Ghosts of Men” from their long‑awaited self‑titled debut album, co‑produced with Phil Anderson, mixed by Joel Wanasek, and mastered by Maor Appelbaum, set for release on August 21, 2026.

“Ghosts of Men” was originally somewhat written back when Braden, Beej, and Jeff first got together, but put on the back burner. It was then rewritten, including vocals, just three days before entering the studio. The track evolved rapidly into one of the album’s most personal and hard‑hitting tracks.

“Famous Strangers tear down the double standard with ‘Ghosts of Men,’ a track that hits as hard as the conversation it starts. Bold, unapologetic, and impossible to ignore,” adds Kiernan

The music video takes a wild, tongue‑in‑cheek look at the emotional chaos of being ghosted, an over‑the‑top visual interpretation of the song’s raw vulnerability.

Music Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JllvDWc2AC4

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/famousstrangers/ghosts-of-men

The self-titled album marks the band’s first full‑length statement after a run of well‑received singles and videos throughout 2024–2025, including “Deep Star,” “George,” “I’ll See You in the Stars,” and “LSC”. Built on decades of collective experience in the Alberta music scene, Famous Strangers deliver a sound that is unpredictable, moody, haunting, old‑school, and intriguing, a fusion of classic heavy rock energy with modern emotional depth.

Famous Strangers formed organically after years of crossing paths in the Edmonton scene. Guitarist Jeff Kittlitz and drummer Beej had accumulated several original songs over a decade of part-time jamming. Bassist Braden Sustrik and Beej had a history in other past projects, and he was integrated into the jams around 2018. When vocalist Amanda Kiernan joined in 2023, everything clicked instantly.

“The connection was undeniable, the energy and vibe were pure magic. The lyrics poured out of me as if they’d been waiting for this exact moment,” says Kiernan.

The self‑titled debut is built around a central theme: knowing your worth. Drawing from deeply personal experiences, the album explores self‑love, growth, resilience, and the journey of breaking free from what holds you back. Musically, it’s a dynamic ride through heavy grunge‑soaked riffs, explosive high‑energy moments, atmospheric breakdowns, and softer introspective passages. The band pushes genre boundaries, embracing creative freedom and emotional honesty. Tracks range from the empowering opener “Fire Inside”, to the punk‑driven alien‑abduction romp “Far Away from Home”, to the blues‑infused vulnerability of “Rain.”

Recommended for fans of Halestorm, Nothing More, Sevendust, Godsmack, Evanescence, Butcher Babies, and Bad Omens, the self-titled album is available for pre-order / pre-save (Vinyl/Digital) (Out August 21, 2026) – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/famousstrangers/famous-strangers

Album artwork and track listing will be revealed in the coming weeks.

Upcoming Show Dates:
June 27 – Decimate MetalFest – Millet, AB
July 3 – The Slice – Lethbridge, AB
July 4 – The Blox – Calgary, AB
Aug 6 through 20 – Western Canadian Tour
Aug 21 – Album Release Show 1 – Rec Room – Edmonton, AB
Aug 22 – Album Release Show 2 – Temple Starlite – Edmonton, AB

More info:

https://www.famousstrangersband.com/

https://www.facebook.com/FamousStrangersBand/

https://www.instagram.com/famousstrangersband

About: Famous Strangers is a heavy metal band from Sherwood Park, Alberta. Rooted in the classics and built for today, the band brings together four veterans of the Alberta music scene with over 20 years of collective experience. With four singles, a music video for every release, and a debut album on vinyl dropping in August 2026, Famous Strangers is all raw power, emotional depth, and a sound that refuses to sit still.

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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 (Single – I See You In The Stars – 2025)

““George” by Famous Strangers is not just a song—it’s a full-throttle, unapologetic metal anthem that grips you from the very first crushing drumbeat and refuses to let go. Heavy. Relentless. Unstoppable. This track is a ferocious sonic onslaught, packed with blistering guitar riffs, bone-rattling drums, and a vocal performance that will leave you breathless.” – Switching Styles (Single – George – 2025)

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0 Streaming Now! Prog Fusion Visionaries LUFEH’s New Album “Overwhelmed”

May 28, 2026
by Asher
· Lufeh · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 28, 2026

Streaming Now! Prog Fusion Visionaries LUFEH’s New Album “Overwhelmed”

Photo Credit – Joao Pinheiro

Progressive rock collective LUFEH will release their highly anticipated sophomore album “Overwhelmed” on May 29th, marking a major new chapter for the band as they continue to evolve their sophisticated fusion of prog rock, metal, jazz, and Brazilian musical influences. Fans will get their first chance to hear the full record a day early with an exclusive album stream premiere on TheProgSpace at https://theprogspace.com/lufeh-overwhelmed-album-premiere/

The release follows a powerful run of singles that have steadily revealed the album’s musical depth and emotional range. “He Commands the Sun and the Stars”, the first single, is a rhythmically complex yet instantly memorable track that sets the tone for the album’s direction.
“Overwhelmed”, the cinematic title track featuring a standout violin performance from new featured vocalist Ginny Luke. “Double Dip”, a time‑shifting prog fusion piece highlighted by the exotic Bulbul Tarang. “War of Emotions”, the band’s heaviest single to date, explores the internal battles of the self.

Recorded at the legendary Sunset Sound in Los Angeles and produced by keyboardist Gera Penna, “Overwhelmed” represents LUFEH’s most refined and expressive work to date. While the band’s debut “Luggage Falling Down” leaned heavily into technicality, the new album strikes a deliberate balance: intricate musicianship paired with catchy, memorable vocal melodies designed to stay with listeners long after the songs end.

“We still have that elaborate, complicated playing, but this time every song has vocal parts and choruses that are easy to remember and sing along to. It’s complicated music that’s also catchy,” says band founder and drummer Lufeh Batera.

The album also marks the arrival of Ginny Luke as LUFEH’s new featured vocalist and electric violinist. Known for her work with Foo Fighters, Britney Spears, Snoop Dogg, and more, she brings a dynamic voice and violin performances that add a new dimension to the band’s sound.

Though Lufeh Batera resides in Los Angeles and the rest of the band is based in São Paulo, Brazil, the group crafted nearly 70% of the album online, exchanging ideas daily and refining arrangements collaboratively. Longtime musical partners Deio Tambasco (guitar) and Duca Tambasco (bass) bring decades of chemistry, having played with Lufeh since the early ’90s.

The band’s creative process remains deeply collective, something Batera says defines their identity:

“Our creative process is like a drawing that passes from hand to hand. Everyone adds their own stroke until it has the right colors and depth.”

Across its eight tracks, “Overwhelmed” explores themes of pressure, renewal, duality, longing, and self‑reflection. From the rock‑opera drama of “Feels Like I’m a Ghost” to the uplifting message of “Breathe” and the spiritual catharsis of “End of the Tunnel,” the album blends technical mastery with emotional storytelling.

With influences ranging from Dream Theater and Rush to Vola, Tool, and Haken, LUFEH’s new album stands as their most cohesive and expressive work yet. It’s a record built for both musicians and melody‑seekers, complex, modern, refined, and deeply human.

Album pre-order (Out May 29th, 2026) – Bandcamp – https://lufehband.bandcamp.com/

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/artist/0an1zJbJGzCFkoXapSmjaB

Videos:

War of Emotions – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLpdNpBKaqM

Double Dip – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_vbw_09koSo

Overwhelmed – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2ZN21fSq0c

He Commands the Sun and the Stars – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0WG8j9ovlU

Track Listing:
1. He Commands The Sun and The Stars – 4:22
2. Breathe – 4:03
3. Double Dip – 4:39
4. Overwhelmed – 4:30
5. Feels Like I’m A Ghost – 5:43
6. Live The New Today – 4:50
7. War of Emotions – 3:50
8. End of the Tunnel – 4:18

Album Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Duca Tambasco, Deio Tambasco, Gera Penna, Lufeh Batera, and Ginny Luke
• All songs written by: Duca Tambasco, Deio Tambasco, Gera Penna, and Lufeh Batera
• Produced by: Gera Penna
• Mixed by: Adair Daufembach
• Mastered by: Adair Daufembach
• Album Artwork by: Lufeh Batera

Album and Live Band Line Up:
Duca Tambasco – bass and backing vocals
Deio Tambasco – guitar and backing vocals
Gera Penna – keyboard and backing vocals
Lufeh Batera – Drums
Ginny Luke – vocals (featuring)

More Info:

https://www.lufehband.com

https://www.facebook.com/lufehband

https://www.instagram.com/lufehband/

About:

LUFEH is a progressive rock/metal band blending technical precision with emotional depth and genre‑bending influences. Formed by drummer Lufeh after a long hiatus from music, the band now features guitarist Deio Tambasco, bassist Duca Tambasco, keyboardist/producer Gera Penna, and vocalist/violinist Ginny Luke. Their sound draws inspiration from Dream Theater, Rush, Vola, Tool, Haken, and Brazilian musical traditions.

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“What grabbed me most on the album, besides the deeply personal approach to songwriting, was the level of talent the band has. We all know that talent isn’t the measuring stick to success, but it never hurts. This band has plenty, but they don’t let it overtake their sound. This was a feel good album with plenty of substance.” – Metal Temple (2026 – Overwhelmed)

“My take on the album: I do like that Lufeh do things their own way. For me this is an exceptional album with a fresh take on traditional metal. Ginny is a gem on vocals and the use of instruments is damn good. A flawless album that deserve nothing less than the perfect 10.” – Project Metal Music

“If their debut consisted of showing their instrumental muscles, their next album Overwhelmed (released May 29) seems to focus on purely melodic choruses. It has the complexity of Haken or Rush, but with choruses that really stick in your head.” – Radio Papy Jeff (2026 – Overwhelmed)

“Lufeh has built a sound that sits at the intersection of three demanding disciplines — Progressive Rock’s structural ambition, Progressive Metal’s physical weight, and Jazz-Fusion’s harmonic and rhythmic sophistication — and has managed to do so without reducing any of the three to background texture. The integration of Ginny Luke‘s violin gives the ensemble a tonal signature that is genuinely distinctive and provides the record with some of its most memorable moments. The dual vocal format, consistently well-deployed, expands the expressive range of the material in ways that a single voice simply could not replicate. With a renewed lineup and a track record of progressive evolution, Lufeh delivers here a disciplined, technically formidable body of work that will satisfy those who take their Heavy Prog seriously.” – Progressive Rock Journal

“Very soulful breaks.Like the dynamics. The drummer is very powerful and precise. Like Rush if they were a soul band.” – CFRU 93.3 FM – Planet Groove (Guelph, ON, Canada)

“With „Overwhelmed“ LUFEH are opening a new chapter – more emotional, melodic and at the same time more powerful than ever. The title track of their upcoming album combines progressive virtuosity with haunting storytelling and marks an impressive evolution – an intense foretaste of what happened on March 29th. May 2026 is coming.” – Metalogy (2026 – Overwhelmed)

“Heavy prog shines with the new single ‘He Commands the Sun and the Stars’ from LUFEH. Dream Theater and Shadow Gallery fans will find a lot to love here including a spotlight performance from featured vocalist and electric violinist Ginny Luke. Musically the band doesn’t disappoint with soaring keys, complex percussion, driving riffs, strolling bass lines…all at a high level, which is what is demanded when you enter the sacred space of progressive rock. Just as much a beautiful performance as it is a breathtaking adventure, this track raises expectations for the new album “Overwhelmed” which can’t get here fast enough on May 29th. Catch LUFEH on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll (2026 – Overwhelmed)

“Progressive hard rock’s LUFEH have just released another powerful new single, ‘OVERWHELMED (feat. Ginny Luke)’. The title track from their forthcoming album slated for a May 29th launch, this one is also like the prior single (‘He Commands the Sun and the Stars’), a masterclass of modern prog metal. Hooks that sink deep, superb performances by the band and outstanding songwriting are all on display. The anticipation for the new album is swelling with each single and based on what we’ve heard so far, we’re ready for an exceptional experience. Catch Lufeh on your Home for the Best New Rock…W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll (2026 – Overwhelmed)

“With Overwhelmed, LUFEH have crafted a progressive rock album that is mature without feeling restrained, technical without becoming cold, and melodic without sacrificing ambition. It is the sound of a band refining its identity while opening itself to greater emotional risk. The result is a record that feels both grand and personal, the kind of album that rewards close listening while still offering choruses, hooks, and moments of immediate impact. LUFEH are not simply flexing their instrumental muscles here. They are building songs that understand what it means to carry too much, to lose sight of the surface, and to keep reaching anyway. ‘Overwhelmed‘ may be born from pressure, but its greatest achievement is the way it turns that pressure into motion, melody, and release.” – Infrared Magazine”

Great prog album, love Feels Like I’m A Ghost song” – The Chill dude on the Couch

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0 VICTORIA K – New single “Oh So Weary”; The First Glimpse From Upcoming Album “The Pleasure Of Sorrow”

May 28, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Victoria K

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 28, 2026

VICTORIA K – New single “Oh So Weary”; The First Glimpse From Upcoming Album “The Pleasure Of Sorrow”

Australian gothic/modern metal act Victoria K unveil “Oh So Weary”, the first single taken from the upcoming album “The Pleasure Of Sorrow”.

With “The Pleasure Of Sorrow”, Victoria K moves toward a darker and more intimate sound, combining gothic atmospheres, modern heaviness, haunting melodies, and emotionally driven songwriting. The album expands the band’s sonic identity while exploring themes of grief, mortality, vulnerability, and rebirth.

“Oh So Weary” offers the first glimpse of this new direction through a composition that balances fragility, tension, and crushing dynamics. Layered arrangements, haunting melodies, and a sharp modern production approach – helmed by producer Lee Bradshaw and elevated through Lance Prenc’s mixing and mastering – shape a track that feels both massive and deeply personal. Additional electronic textures and sound design elements further reinforce the song’s contemporary edge and immersive atmosphere.

The single reflects on mortality and on the human body as a temporary shell inhabited by the soul. Recurring references to “home” and “house” symbolise physical existence itself, questioning what may remain once that form disappears.

Rather than relying on traditional genre formulas, Victoria K continues refining a sound built around atmosphere, emotional weight, and contemporary influences. Over the years, the Australian act has developed a distinctive identity within the modern gothic and alternative metal landscape through dynamic songwriting and cinematic storytelling.

Further details regarding “The Pleasure Of Sorrow”, including the album release date, will be revealed in the coming months. Stay tuned!

Listen to “Oh So Weary” here: https://lnk.to/b2R91u

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gmo57RpzXrI

For fans of: Spiritbox, Evanescence, Lacuna Coil

VICTORIA K lineup:

Victoria Knight: Vocals
Charlie Curnow: Extreme Vocals
James Davies: Drums
Ethan Collusi: Bass

BIOGRAPHY:

Emerging from the sepulchral mists and haunted landscapes of ancient myth, Victoria K cast a lengthening shadow over Australia and beyond. Leading the Australian Gothic Metal charge with soaring vocals, expansive melodies, and bombastic songwriting that draws on the resonance of the oldest tales and fresh emotion.

Victoria K first came to the notice of listeners with their single “Lacuna,” which was distributed in Australia and New Zealand by Warner Music Group (Australia) and was an early taste of things to come with their debut album, “Essentia“.

Soon after the release of the 2019 single “Lacuna” ahead of the band’s first album, Victoria K were invited to support Swiss Folk Metal legends Eluveitie at Melbourne’s Croxton Bandroom. Though this was Victoria K’s first live outing, they took the crowd by storm and left them chanting for more. This entry into the live scene set the stage for the release of “Essentia” perfectly.

The diversity of music across the “Essentia” album is showcased across the four single/video releases – “Essentia“, “Forsaken“, “The Haunting“, and “Matrix“. While “Forsaken” reaches into the darker corners of Victoria K’s musical palette, “Matrix,” by contrast, is a fast and uplifting song guaranteed to get the blood pumping.

Just as Victoria K was about to play their first headline show, however, the world was plunged into the throes of lockdowns and the now-infamous pandemic. Even in the face of such a challenging time for the music industry, the band remained undeterred and performed a live show streamed directly from the studio, which was later released as the DVD “Essentia – Live Isolation Concert“.

By the time the world opened up again, Victoria K were ravenous for touring and embarked upon an extensive trek across the Great Southern Land that took in capital cities and regional towns alike, from their hometown of Melbourne to Whyalla.

Even as they toured, Victoria K showed no sign of slowing down in their songwriting, and 2023 saw the release of their sophomore album “Kore“. For this release, Knight drew on her own Greek heritage to weave an enchanting interpretation of the story of Persephone, including lyrics and chants sung in Ancient Greek to truly capture the epic tale.

The lineage from such luminaries of Gothic Metal as Within Temptation, Lacuna Coil, and Evanescence, as well as Prog/Power acts like Evergrey and Melbourne’s own Teramaze, to Victoria K is clear; however, with their latest release, Victoria K pays tribute to a more surprising inspiration, Madonna. In April 2024, Victoria K released their heavy rendition of the iconic 1998 ballad “Frozen“, running the gamut from heavy riffs to more dulcet moments, giving homage to the soulful and introspective nature of the song.

In addition to Knight’s majestic lead vocals, Victoria K’s current touring line-up includes Charlie Curnow tearing up the stage on harsh vocals, Ethan Colussi holding down the bottom end on bass, and the indomitable percussive machine of James Davies on drums.

Victoria K has amassed over 475,000 streams on Spotify and accumulated over 717,000 views on YouTube, averaging over 90 hours a month of watch time, with Matrix achieving over 150,000 views. They also boast over 6300 Facebook, 4000 Instagram, and 2700 TikTok followers, as well as over 6600 YouTube subscribers and 1000 monthly Spotify listeners primarily in Australia and the US.

With Victoria K leaning into epic and fantastical tales, it’s only fitting that they supported Blind Guardian at the Northcote Theatre on Friday, February 9, 2024, and Katatonia at The Croxton on Saturday, February 10, 2024.

Victoria K’s have recorded their 3rd studio album, “The Pleasure of Sorrow.” The details will be revealed in the coming weeks.

More info:
https://rockshots.eu/

https://www.instagram.com/victoria_k_official/

https://www.facebook.com/victoriakofficial/

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0 China’s DEHUMANIZING ITATRAIN WORSHIP Drops “Yomi” A Slam‑Fueled Tribute to Acheron and Japanese Folklore From New Album “二次元コンプレックス 2D Complex”

May 28, 2026
by Asher
· Dehumanizing Itatrain Worship (Stillbirth Records/Gore House Productions) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 28, 2026

China’s DEHUMANIZING ITATRAIN WORSHIP Drops “Yomi” A Slam‑Fueled Tribute to Acheron and Japanese Folklore

New Album “二次元コンプレックス 2D Complex” Out July 2026 via Stillbirth Records / Gore House Productions

Line Up – L-R – Zen (Bass) | Shiru (Drums) | Kiryu Zhang (Vocals) | Xenochrist (Guitar) | Khezk (Composer)

Photo Credit – Wendy

China’s most unhinged fusion of anime culture and extreme metal, Dehumanizing Itatrain Worship, return with their newest single “Yomi”, taken from their upcoming full‑length album “二次元コンプレックス 2D Complex” out this July 2026 through Stillbirth Records, the subsidiary label from Gore House Productions.

Known globally as “the best anime death metal from China,” the band continues to push their bizarre, hyper‑violent, kawaii‑infected sound to new extremes. With brain‑melting anime‑style melodies, high‑speed blast beats, and a chaotic blend of J‑pop, brutal death metal, blackgaze, and Japanese folk, DIW have carved out one of the most unique identities in modern extreme music.

Having toured extensively across China, Japan, and Europe, and appearing at major festivals including Deathfeast Open Air, Eastsea Metal Fest, Monster Kill EU Tour, and Shockwave Fest, along with sharing the stage with such bands as Suicide Silence, Stillbirth, Born of Osiris, Origin, Belphegor, Vulvectomy, and more, the band now prepares to unleash their most ambitious and personal work yet.

Today, the band unveils their new single “Yomi” featuring Alan Grnja (Distant). The song stands as one of the album’s most striking and emotionally charged tracks, blending DIW’s signature slam brutality with Japanese folk elements and a solemn, atmospheric tone.

“‘Yomi’ features Alan Grnja from the Dutch deathcore heavyweights Distant. We blended in Japanese folk elements here. It’s solemn yet fierce, I think you guys are going to love it,” adds vocalist Kiryu.

The track follows the atmospheric piano interlude “Utsushiyo”, setting the stage for a descent into a mythic, folkloric underworld inspired by the character Acheron from Honkai: Star Rail.

Listen to “Yomi” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1y5hIAykpOc

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/1fyoWtozo3cyRSOTiUrGuc

“二次元コンプレックス 2D Complex” marks a major evolution for Dehumanizing Itatrain Worship, both musically and lyrically. While the band first gained notoriety for their meme‑driven anime‑slam chaos, this album digs deeper into Otaku psychology, isolation, and emotional collapse.

“We moved away from pure gore this time to focus more on anime culture, the hikikomori life, and my own mental state. These Otaku memes are just a shell. What’s actually inside is pain, hatred, and a genuine urge for self‑destruction. Imagine a car crash in Akihabara, that’s our music in a nutshell. We threw in everything from J‑pop and Blackgaze to Japanese folk. Every track is meant to stick with you. This album refuses to be boring,” adds Kiryu.

Dehumanizing Itatrain Worship was formed from the collision of Japanese animation and extreme metal. DIW has become one of the most recognizable names in the global slam scene. Their sound is fast, brutal, kawaii, weird, and funny, a chaotic blend that has earned them a cult following across Asia and Europe.

For fans of: Ingested, Vulvodynia, Within Destruction, and Maximum The Hormone.

Due out on July 10, 2026, from Stillbirth Records / Gore House Productions, “二次元コンプレックス 2D Complex” is available for pre-order / pre-save at: https://orcd.co/2d-complex

Track Listing:
1. Lucky☆Slam – 1:32
2. Slamonogatari (feat. Andrew Lee from Ripped to Shreds) – 3:57
3. Brutal Panzer – 3:14
4. Twisted Light (feat. Akihiro Muto from Agent 0) – 3:11
5. 苦痛昇天 (feat. Yui from Earthists.) – 3:03
6. Song of the Neet (feat. Yanchi from 5PM Promise and Matt Yakesh from No Face No Case) – 3:35
7. Utsushiyo – 1:38
8. Yomi (feat. Alan Grnja from Distant) – 4:01
9. 約束 (feat. Niik from Pale) – 5:51
Album Length: 30:03

Album and Live Band Line Up:
Kiryu Zhang – Vocals
Xenochrist – Guitar
Zen – Bass
Shiru – Drums
Khezk – Composer

More info: Gorehouseproductions.com | Facebook.com/DehumanizingItatrainWorship | Instagram.com/dehumanizing_itatrain_worship

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“If the only thing the band had was a well-executed gimmick, I likely would have lost interest by now. One of their main strengths is that the core sound would hold up even if the gimmick was taken out.” – The Goat Review

“China’s Dehumanizing Itatrain Worship took the internet by storm with their debut EP μ’Sick.” – MetalSucks

“Dehumanizing Itatrain Worship made a mark on the metal community with head-spinning brutality accompanied” – Unite Asia

“It promises to be the most unusual new track (Eien Parasites) you’ll check out for a while.” – New Noise Magazine (2022)

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0 Montreal Tech-Death VOLUBILIS Announce Debut Album “Theasterion” Out July 2026; Streaming Single “Ashes & Embers”

May 27, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Volubilis

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 27, 2026

Montreal Tech-Death VOLUBILIS Announce Debut Album “Theasterion” Out July 2026

Streaming Single “Ashes & Embers”

L-R – Shawn Hillman (Fretless bass) | Miguel Marcheterre-Pina (Guitar) | André Dubien (Vocals)

Photo Credit – Jade Weeles & Miguel Marcheterre-Pina

Montréal technical death metal force Volubilis officially announce their highly anticipated debut album “Theasterion,” set for release on July 10, 2026. The announcement arrives alongside the band’s first single, “Ashes & Embers,” now streaming on all major platforms.

Founded in 2020 by Afro‑Canadian multi‑instrumentalist and world‑builder Miguel Marcheterre‑Pina, Volubilis first emerged as a pandemic‑era solo project before expanding into a full lineup featuring some of Canada’s most promising extreme‑metal musicians: André Dubien (vocals), Jacob Collins (drums), Alexis Rioux (guitar), and Shawn Hillman (fretless bass). What began in a bedroom has since evolved into a multidisciplinary, lore‑driven creative universe, one that fuses technical death metal, visual storytelling, and ambitious conceptual worldbuilding.

Volubilis shape their identity through an intricate, hyper‑speed, melodic, modern, and fully immersive approach to extreme metal. Drawing from progressive and technical death metal, neoclassical and black metal, metalcore, and even classical and hip‑hop influences, the band pushes the genre into bold new conceptual territory. Powered by colossal blast beats, monstrous vocals, and soaring harmonies, “Theasterion” positions Volubilis as one of the most compelling new forces in the progressive and technical metal landscape. Their meticulous songwriting and expansive self‑built sci‑fi universe reveal a level of ambition rarely seen in a debut release.

“This album represents a significant milestone, not just for us, but for the visibility of Afro‑Canadian and BIPOC artists in extreme metal. Theasterion is a legacy project. It’s meant to inspire others to pursue their creative visions, even with limited resources,” says Miguel.

“Theasterion” is a fully conceptual record that follows a sweeping science‑fiction narrative. Humanity, no longer able to survive on Earth, colonizes a satellite orbiting the planet Theasterion. When a mysterious monument, the Prism, appears, its glyphs reveal a prophecy foretelling the supernova of the nearest star, Unukhalai. The revelation fractures the colony, igniting political upheaval, a coup d’état, and a desperate expedition to the hostile planet below. There, the explorers encounter the Homo Cumulus, a non‑linear anthropoid species evolved beyond human comprehension. As tensions rise and resources collapse, humanity faces extinction long before the cataclysm arrives.

The album’s first single, “Ashes & Embers,” showcases the band’s signature blend of technical precision and cinematic intensity. Opening with a triplet‑driven riff inspired by Beyond Creation and Ne Obliviscaris, the track erupts into high‑velocity phrygian runs, a Necrophagist‑esque solo, and a dramatic tapping section that highlights the band’s world‑class musicianship.

Streaming now, “Ashes & Embers” offers listeners their first step into the vast universe of “Theasterion.”

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/track/2jL5Lvva0VYWoKfyvdcIec

Visualizer – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4f130h2824Q

Bandcamp – https://volubilisband.bandcamp.com/track/ashes-embers

Recommended for fans of Beyond Creation, Vale of Pnath, Obscura, First Fragment and Ne Obliviscaris.

Album pre-order / pre-save available at the following links

Digital pre-save – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/volubilis1/theasterion

Bandcamp – https://volubilisband.bandcamp.com/album/theasterion

Track Listing:
1. Le Flamboiement Stellaire (5:16)
2. Theasterion (6:30)
3. Homo Cumulus (5:48)
4. Ashes & Embers (4:50)
5. The Prism (4:01)
6. Unukhalai Supernova (6:24)
Total Album Length: 33min

Album Band Line Up:
Miguel Marcheterre-Pina – Rhythm, lead and acoustic guitars, composition, concept art, lyrics.
Shawn Hilman – Fretless Bass, Contrabass
André Dubien – Vocals, lyrics on songs 03 & 06.
Jacob Collins – Drums
Alexis Rioux – Guest solos on songs 01, 02 and 03.
Michelle Gao: Violin, viola on song 06

Live Band Line Up:
Miguel Marcheterre-Pina – Guitar, backing vocals
Shawn Hilman – Fretless Bass
André Dubien – Vocals
Jacob Collins – Drums
Alexis Rioux – Guitar

More info:

https://bio.site/volubilis

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093419962099

https://www.instagram.com/volubilisband/

About: Volubilis is a Montréal‑based technical death metal band founded in 2020 by multi‑instrumentalist Miguel Marcheterre‑Pina, originally conceived as a pandemic‑era solo project. It soon expanded into a full lineup featuring André Dubien, Jacob Collins, Alexis Rioux, and Shawn Hillman, quickly establishing itself as one of Canada’s most promising new extreme‑metal acts. After releasing their first single, “Ashes & Embers” in 2025, the band now returns with their ambitious conceptual debut album, “Theasterion.” Defined by colossal blast beats, monstrous vocals, and sweeping harmonies, their sound delivers a fresh and immersive take on progressive and technical metal. Rooted in a self‑created sci‑fi universe and driven by world‑class musicianship, Volubilis push extreme metal into bold new artistic territory.

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0 Montreal Blackened Thrash SHROUD Unveils The Darkness w/ Debut Album “Pax Nocturna” Out June 2026; Streaming Singles “All Creation” and “The Eternal Void”

May 26, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Shroud

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 26, 2026

Montreal Blackened Thrash SHROUD Unveils Its Darkness w/ Debut Album “Pax Nocturna” Out June 2026

Streaming Singles “All Creation” and “The Eternal Void”

Vinyl / CD Pre-Order Available

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

Montreal’s rising Blackened Thrash force SHROUD will release their long‑awaited debut album, “Pax Nocturna,” on June 4th, 2026, delivering a ferocious first statement forged in chaos, philosophy, and pure extreme‑metal intensity. The band has already begun their ascent with two singles, “All Creation” and “The Eternal Void”, both now streaming and showcasing the band’s blistering blend of Black, Thrash, Death, and Melodic metal.

Formed during the isolation of the COVID‑19 pandemic, SHROUD began when guitarist/vocalist Matteo Conti approached drummer Zack Osiris with the idea of starting a new project while the world was locked down. Despite restrictions and the stigma of even leaving the house, the pair began writing in Montreal, crafting songs week by week and discovering a shared foundation of influences and vision. By 2022, as the world reopened, the lineup solidified with Justin Cournoyer on bass and Jordan Barillaro on guitar, a chemistry that immediately felt inevitable.

“Once Jordan joined after our first show, it was clear this was the real beginning of Shroud. Everything since has been a train of reckoning, writing, performing, and bonding. The four of us feel truly united in what Shroud has become,” adds Conti.

SHROUD describes their sound in five words: Blackened Thrash Metal, but “Pax Nocturna” expands that foundation with elements of Death Metal, Melodic Metal, and atmospheric extremity. Fans of Watain, Dissection, Hellripper, Skeletonwitch, and Necrophobic will find themselves right at home.

The band expects the album to resonate strongly with extreme‑metal listeners:

“Black and Thrash are the driving forces, but we pull from Death and Melodic Metal too. It’s meant to be a ride, fast, punishing, sometimes slowing down, but always taking you somewhere while staying true to the sound of Shroud,” says Conti.

Lyrically, “Pax Nocturna” explores Satanic Gnosticism, existential dread, anti‑religious critique, and the darker corners of human nature. Each track dives into a different facet of the void.

“It’s the rejection of imposed order and the corruption of organized religion. It’s embracing the chaos we come from, acknowledging we are our own gods and masters. It is peace within the night. It is Pax Nocturna,” adds Conti.

The album was primarily written by Conti and Osiris, with Cournoyer and Barillaro shaping and refining the final structures. Newer material has become fully collaborative as the band continues to evolve.

The album artwork reflects SHROUD’s fascination with the occult and surrealism, drawing inspiration from Yoshitaka Amano, Zdzisław Beksiński, and dark fantasy imagery. Depicting the four band members in ritualistic worship of the demonic Archduke Murmur, the piece symbolizes philosophy, music, and the band’s unified creative force.

SHROUD has already carved a reputation in the Quebec metal scene for their tightness, intensity, and unrelenting stage presence, sharing stages with Exciter, Midnight, Wraith, Goatwhore, Vitriol, Necrofier, Wormwitch, Spiter, Tomarumvoid, Angelus Apatrida, and Sorguinazia.

“We play with vigour and hate, but also love and determination. Our presence and delivery stand out. It’s all or nothing.”

The band is set to support Atlanta’s Tómarúm and LA’s Gudsforladt alongside locals Black Market Fossil on May 28th at Piranha Bar in Montreal. Info at https://www.facebook.com/events/2763370517331518/

and Album Release Show – June 5th at Foufounes Electriques w/ LÜGER, KATÖ et BURNING SANCTUM.

Info at https://www.facebook.com/events/1636052210962146/

Recommended for fans of Watain, Dissection, Hellripper, Skeletonwitch, and Necrophobic.

Listen to singles “All Creation” and “The Eternal Void” at the following links:

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/artist/60dzfqRWshGC9cqd0TbFIE

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

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

“Pax Nocturna” is due out June 4th, 2026.

CD / Vinyl – https://shroudmtl.bandcamp.com/

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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0 Australia’s GREYSTONE CANYON Shares Claymation Cover Video of LED ZEPPELIN Classic “Immigrant Song”

May 22, 2026
by Asher
· Greystone Canyon (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 22, 2026

Australia’s GREYSTONE CANYON Shares Claymation Cover Video of LED ZEPPELIN Classic “Immigrant Song”

New Album “Something Borrowed…Something New” Out Now!

Australian hard rockers Greystone Canyon unleash their explosive take on the legendary Led Zeppelin classic “Immigrant Song”, delivering the iconic anthem with raw power, grit, and unapologetic attitude.

The track is taken from the band’s third full-length album “Something Borrowed…Something New”, a record that perfectly captures the authentic spirit of Greystone Canyon: loud, direct, and fiercely organic. Recorded live in a single room without click tracks, heavy editing, or digital manipulation, the album embraces the timeless energy of classic rock records where feel and performance mattered more than sterile perfection.

Rather than reinventing the song, Greystone Canyon chose to honor its primal energy while injecting its own hard-hitting approach into the performance. The result is a version that feels immediate, visceral, and alive, staying true to the essence of the original while carrying the band’s unmistakable personality.

Accompanying the release is a completely handcrafted official video built around a striking claymation concept. Staying true to the album’s old-school philosophy, the animation features plasticine characters and construction-paper backgrounds, with every frame individually photographed to recreate an epic, Viking-inspired journey that perfectly matches the relentless drive of the track.

Claymation characters & animation: Dumindu
Mixed & mastered by: Joel Taylor

Watch the claymation cover video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OKcuHv8BU8I

“Something Borrowed…Something New” combines reimagined classics with brand new original material, creating a record that balances nostalgia, personality, and pure rock energy. It’s an album built on honesty, instinct, and the kind of human performance that modern productions often forget.

For fans of Led Zeppelin, Ozzy Osbourne, and Thin Lizzy.

“Something Borrowed… Something New” was released on December 5th, 2025, from Rockshots Records and is available on all major streaming platforms and physical formats.

CD – https://rockshots.eu/products/greystone-canyon-something-borrowed-something-new-cd

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/1ZyEq4kWkhDg6RnzCbGKJj

Track Listing:
1. Doctor, Doctor (UFO cover) – 04:16
2. Just Got Paid (ZZ Top cover) – 03:35
3. Drives Us – 05:06
4. Immigrant Song (Led Zeppelin cover) – 02:21
5. Friend of the Fox – 03:57
6. Suicide (Thin Lizzy cover) – 05:14
7. Hey, Hey, My, My (Into the Black) (Neil Young cover) – 03:22
8. AAF – 1:47
9. Stealing Our Freedom – 04:26
Album Length: 33:54

More info: Rockshots.eu | Facebook.com/greystonecanyon | Instagram.com/greystonecanyon_official

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“An honest record for sure, Something Borrowed…Something New could gain favor for Greystone Canyon as there’s something so timeless about this style. It’s the type of record that enhances your love of heavy music as well as the versatility that has been there since the 70s.8.5/10” – DeadRhetoric

“My take on the album: May people have wondered who will replace AC//DC as the next Hard Rock/Metal band with heavy blues in their music. Greystone Canyon is the answer. Remember the name these guys are going places. Every member of the band have mastered their skills and is a tight unit that complement each other. This a belter of an album. Nothing less than the perfect 10 would do justice to the album.” – Project Metal Music

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0 Out Now! EMBRACE OF SOULS’ New Concept Album “Battle of the Dead”; Streaming New Visualizer “Eversun”

May 22, 2026
by Asher
· Embrace of Souls (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 22, 2026

Out Now! EMBRACE OF SOULS’ New Concept Album “Battle of the Dead”; Streaming New Visualizer “Eversun”

Embrace Of Souls proudly unveil “The Battle Of The Dead“, the band’s new full-length album and most ambitious work to date, together with the release of the new focus track “Eversun,” further supported by a brand new Official Visualizer. Following the momentum generated by the previously released singles “Desolate Lands” and the album’s title track “The Battle Of The Dead”, the Italian power metal force pushes its artistic vision even further, delivering a record where epic storytelling, symphonic grandeur, and classic European power metal converge into a cohesive and emotionally charged listening experience.

Conceived as an 11-track fantasy concept, “The Battle Of The Dead” unfolds across a medieval world fractured into rival kingdoms where a mysterious plague begins corrupting human souls and slowly drags the continent toward an inevitable war between the living and the dead. Rather than unveiling every detail of the storyline, the band deliberately preserves the narrative’s mystery, inviting listeners to discover its deeper meaning through the interplay between music and lyrics. Themes of power, betrayal, sacrifice, and hope permeate the album, shaping a journey designed to be experienced in its entirety.

Musically, “The Battle Of The Dead” marks a decisive step forward for Embrace Of Souls. Firmly rooted in the legacy of ‘80s and ‘90s heavy and power metal while embracing the epic and symphonic scope of early-2000s European metal, the album delivers a sound that is both commanding and emotionally resonant. Driving guitar work, relentless double-kick rhythms, layered keyboards, and expansive choral arrangements form the backbone of the record, while the dynamic interplay between Giacomo Rossi’s powerful lead vocals and Martina Mazzeo’s operatic performances elevates the material with additional depth, contrast, and theatrical intensity.

Among the album’s standout moments is “Eversun”, the new focus track released alongside the album. Perfectly encapsulating the duality that permeates the entire record, the song balances darkness and melody through a powerful blend of energetic power metal, symphonic textures, and emotionally driven vocal arrangements. Defined by its dynamic pacing, triumphant melodic direction, and dramatic atmosphere, “Eversun” highlights the band’s increasingly mature songwriting approach while preserving the epic spirit that has characterized Embrace Of Souls since its inception.

Founded by drummer and composer Michele Olmi, Embrace Of Souls originally emerged as a studio project created to unite talented Italian musicians under a shared passion for classic heavy and power metal. Over time, the project evolved into a fully established live band, steadily refining its artistic identity while sharing the stage with renowned acts such as Stratovarius, Sonata Arctica, and Rhapsody of Fire.

The album also features a special guest appearance by Morby (Domine), further strengthening the connection with the most authentic tradition of Italian power metal.

The record showcases a particularly refined production, enhanced by the mix and mastering handled by Alessio Garavello at Rogue Studios in London, bringing out both the album’s powerful rhythmic impact and its rich melodic and symphonic atmosphere.

With “The Battle Of The Dead“, Embrace Of Souls deliver their strongest and most complete statement to date: a record conceived not merely as a collection of songs but as a fully interconnected musical and narrative experience where epic power metal, symphonic atmospheres, and emotionally charged storytelling merge into a world waiting to be discovered.

Watch the video – Eversun: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMmtIjk-nHg

and previous videos:

Music Video – Desolate Lands – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8TS0sF6CQ2s

Music Video – The Battle Of The Dead – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4UivMmjBSIY

“The Battle Of The Dead” releases today, on May 22nd, 2026, in digital format and digipak CD edition, and will be available to be ordered at the following links:

CD DIGIPAK: https://rockshots.eu/products/embrace-of-souls-the-battle-of-the-dead-cd
DIGITAL: https://lnk.to/kwCVof

OFFICIAL MERCH: https://embraceofsoulsband.bigcartel.com/

For fans of: Rhapsody Of Fire, Stratovarius, Sonata Arctica, Nightwish.

RELEASE PARTY: MAY 30th, 2026
Embrace Of Souls will present The Battle Of The Dead live at La Cripta Club (Cusano Milanino, Italy), alongside Derdian, Drakkar and Axe Blade.

Track Listing:
1. The Battle Of The Dead
2. Eversun
3. The Plague
4. The Gathering
5. Spine
6. Who Can Save Us
7. Betrayal
8. The Dark Lord
9. The War (feat. Morby)
10. Sacrifice
11. Desolate Lands

Line-up:
Giacomo Rossi – Vocals
Martina Mazzeo – Vocals
Edward De Rosa – Guitars
Xavier Rota – Bass
Davide Baldelli – Keyboards
Michele Olmi – Drums

More info:
https://www.rockshots.eu

https://www.instagram.com/embraceofsouls/

https://www.facebook.com/embraceofsoulsofficial/

BIOGRAPHY:

Embrace Of Souls is an Italian power metal band founded by drummer and composer Michele Olmi, conceived with the aim of bringing together talented musicians around a shared vision rooted in collaboration, brotherhood, and a deep passion for classic metal. Initially born as a studio project, the band took shape with the release of their debut album “The Number Of Destiny” in 2021, receiving positive feedback on an international level and notable acclaim in Japan.

Drawing inspiration from ’80s and ’90s heavy and power metal, as well as the epic and symphonic metal of the early 2000s, Embrace Of Souls developed a sound characterized by powerful riffs, epic atmospheres, and strong melodic sensibility. Over time, the project evolved into a full live band, allowing the group to further consolidate its artistic identity and deepen its expressive range.

In 2024, Embrace Of Souls returned with their second full-length album, “Forever Part Of Me,” marking a significant step forward in terms of maturity and songwriting. This phase also introduced important changes within the line-up, bringing renewed energy and a broader musical perspective to the band’s sound.

A key element of this evolution is the current vocal pairing. Giacomo Rossi, already involved in previous releases, now takes on a central role as lead vocalist while Martina Mazzeo, an accomplished soprano vocalist, adds a symphonic and operatic dimension to the band’s music. Together, their voices embody the duality that defines Embrace Of Souls: light and darkness, power and elegance, intensity and emotion.

Having shared the stage with renowned acts such as Domine, Vision Divine, Stratovarius, Sonata Arctica, and Rhapsody Of Fire, Embrace Of Souls continue to refine their identity while looking toward the future. The band is now working on new material, further developing their epic and narrative-driven approach to solidify their presence on the international power metal scene.

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0 WITHOUT MERCY Unleash Lyric Video “The Saint” From New EP “Infinite Loss” Out Now!; Produced by John Douglass (Alluvial, Nile, Nekrogoblikon)

May 21, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Without Mercy

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 21, 2026

WITHOUT MERCY Unleash Lyric Video “The Saint” From New EP “Infinite Loss” Out Now!

Produced by John Douglass (Alluvial, Nile, Nekrogoblikon)

Top – L -R – Alex Friis – Vocals, Matt Helie – Drums, Ryan Loewen – Bass
Bottom – DJ Temple – Guitars
Photo Credit: Shimon Photo – www.shimonphoto.com

Vancouver extreme metal unit Without Mercy has released the brand‑new lyric video for “The Saint,” the latest visual chapter supporting their newly issued EP “Infinite Loss.” The track follows the band’s earlier lyric video for the EP’s title track and the previously revealed singles “Glass” and the official music video for “The Saint.”

“The Saint” marks one of the most significant creative departures in Without Mercy’s catalogue, a song shaped through deep collaboration between the band and their producer John Douglass (Alluvial, Nile, Nekrogoblikon), built on tension, space, and unfamiliar structure.

“The Saint represents the furthest departure from our usual writing approach. It came from a willingness to step back and let someone we trust help guide the process… Instead of discarding our roots, it tests their flexibility, exploring how far they can be stretched before they break,” adds guitarist DJ Temple.

Released May 8th, 2026, “Infinite Loss” captures Without Mercy at their most focused, intentional, and uncompromising. Written during a period of instability and recorded after uprooting their lives to track the EP abroad, the record documents a band choosing discomfort, honesty, and discipline over convenience.

The EP’s three tracks, “Infinite Loss,” “The Saint,” and “Glass”, were selected not as singles, but as statements. Each survived months of scrutiny, revision, and collective challenge.

“This record exists because we chose to be uncomfortable, to argue honestly, and to stay in the room until it felt right… It is focused, intentional, and real. These songs document a short, intense window of our lives where commitment mattered more than convenience and honesty mattered more than expectation,” says Temple.

Lyrically, “Infinite Loss” is about being hunted, not by a single antagonist, but by the relentless pressures of modern life: economics, identity, time, and survival. The threat shifts, but never disappears.

Musically, the EP mirrors that tension through weight, repetition, and restraint. Riffs sit and suffocate. Rhythms feel deliberate and physical. Aggression is controlled rather than explosive.

The artwork, created in collaboration with artist Diego Gedoz de Souza, reflects this emotional core: a desolate forest, a massive void carved into the earth, stillness above and violence below, a visual entry point into the EP’s world.

Without Mercy was formed in 2007, blending groove, extreme metal, and technical precision into a sound described as “heavy and insightful at the same time.” The band has shared stages with Cattle Decapitation, Aborted, and Death Angel, and has appeared as downloadable content in Rock Band 3, bridging gaming culture and heavy music.

Their discography includes “All Else Fails” (2007), “Without Mercy” (2009), “Reborn” (2014), rereleased as “Mouichido” (2016), and “Seismic” (2020). “Infinite Loss” marks their most focused and intentional work to date, a release built from collapse, rebuilt through discipline, and finished with absolute conviction.

Recommended for fans of Meshuggah, Gojira, Decapitated, Alluvial, and Pantera, experience the new lyric video for “The Saint” via TheCirclePit YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4O54Lr9G6ug

Music Video – The Saint – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Le9wnFk5vzM

Lyric Video – Glass – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7Ub18HjM_w

Listen to the full EP “Infinite Loss” on all digital platforms at https://ffm.to/infiniteloss

Track Listing:
1. Infinite Loss – (4:15)
2. The Saint – (3:39)
3. Glass – (3:16)
EP Length: 11:11

EP and Live Band Line Up:
Alex Friis – Vocals
DJ Temple – Guitars
Ryan Loewen – Bass
Matt Helie – Drums

More info:

https://www.withoutmercyband.com/

https://www.facebook.com/withoutmercyband

https://www.instagram.com/withoutmercyband

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“The music was excellent…a potent mixture of aggression and technical precision. Now that I can taste them, I am very much looking forward to a full length from the band.” – Metal-Temple

““The Saint” is somehow both maniacal and controlled. In its opening couple of minutes it seems to be a carefully calibrated convulsion, discharging its myriad sensations in quick stop-start bursts of seemingly off-kilter but tightly executed mayhem. Those sensations include sledgehammer rhythmic brutishness, shrill and spidery fretwork-delirium, and napalm-strength vocals. The grooves are there — grooves of differing kinds — but they quickly jackhammer listeners in the midst of harrowing howls, scorching screams, and a multitude of fleet-fingered but berserk and discordant string contortions. Moreover, at the 2:18 mark the song suddenly and dramatically changes — indeed, it’s difficult to overstate just how dramatic the change is. In place of all the frenetically bursting frequencies the lead guitar gently rings and seductively warps above gravel-toned bass-lines and steady beats, an interlude that brings hints of jazz fusion to mind. That’s just a quick breather before the song’s intensity blazes again, and yet the segue back into the finale of bludgeoning grooves and squirming guitars is a smooth and near-seamless one.” – No Clean Singing

“WITHOUT MERCY With this release they position themselves clearly in the intersection of death metal, groove and metalcore, without completely submitting to any of these genres. The band uses elements of these directions to develop their own language that relies on suspense rather than classic hooks. Conclusion: WITHOUT MERCY succeeds with »Infinite Loss« an impressive statement in the field of death/groove metal, metalcore. 4/5” – Metal Underground Austria
“the controlled aggression and delicious grooves of title track “Infinite Loss” gradually ramp up in their intensity, creating a sense of slow suffocation before the riffs subside to allow for a technical solo of the highest order from DJ Temple. A powerful statement piece that flows in wave like patterns through dark moods, the sonic weight of the music conveys the message without the need for the harsh vocals from Alex Friis. That’s not to say his words are superfluous; on the contrary, they’re the fuel for the fire as the world burns.” – Metal Noise

“we hear a solid force coming through, where riffs are the main ingredient, alongside a brutal and aggressive-sounding voice.” – Musika

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