Category: Music News

0 IRON KINGDOM’s New Video Opens The “Deadhouse Gates” Ahead of Sixth Album “Shadows and Dust” Out June 2026 + Cross Canada Tour Dates

May 21, 2026
by Asher
· Iron Kingdom · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 21, 2026

IRON KINGDOM’s New Video Opens The “Deadhouse Gates” Ahead of Sixth Album “Shadows and Dust” Out June 2026

Sixth Album “Shadows and Dust” Out June 6th, 2026 via Steel Shark Records

Headline Hometown Show in Vancouver + Cross Canada Tour! and Armstrong Metal Fest, Loud As Hell Open Air Fest

L-R – Max Friesen (Drums), Leighton Holmes (Bass), Chris Osterman (Lead Vocals / Lead Guitar), Megan Merrick (Lead Guitar),

Photo Credit – Cailin Haley

Vancouver, Canada’s purveyors of heavy metal Iron Kingdom, are charging forward with the next chapter of their upcoming sixth studio album, “Shadows and Dust,” and unveiling their third single and music video, “Deadhouse Gates”.

“Deadhouse Gates” follows the album’s first two singles, “Defenders” and “Blood and Steel,” continuing to showcase the band’s blend of classic heavy metal power, epic storytelling, and electrifying musicianship.

Bassist Leighton Holmes offers a deep look into the single’s literary inspiration:

“Deadhouse Gates is based on Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson. The Deadhouse is a seemingly abandoned house in Malaz City that serves as a conduit to other planes of existence and is used by two mortals to ascend to godhood as rulers of Shadow. The song tells the story of ancient power waiting for those worthy, or crafty, enough to gain entry, but warns of the dangers presented to the unprepared. Straying from the path means an eternity of torment and imprisonment, but the chance for power is enticing. The dead trees scattered across the yard of the house hide those that are unsuccessful in their roots. It is a cautionary tale of reach exceeding grasp as well as an inspirational story of striving towards greatness.”

Frontman Chris Osterman adds:

“This one is just a total rock n’ roll song, some great leads and melodies, and just overall, I think very catchy!”

Watch and listen to the video for “Deadhouse Gates” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zBE3s4WRlIw

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/5YtmnaBqfbJkUBa4s4N42d

“Shadows and Dust” marks a major milestone for Iron Kingdom: their 15th anniversary and their first release under their new label partnership with Steel Shark Records (France), who will offer an exclusive EU edition limited to just 300 double‑CD copies. Disc 1 will contain the full “Shadows and Dust” album, while Disc 2 will feature a “Best Of” collection highlighting tracks from Iron Kingdom’s previous five releases. In addition, the label will introduce a third vinyl colour (100 copies) available only to EU fans. The album arrives June 6, 2026, coinciding with the 82nd anniversary of D‑Day, a symbolic date the band intentionally chose.

Recorded entirely in their newly completed home studio, the album explores themes of mortality, hardship, perseverance, and the search for meaning. Osterman describes the emotional weight behind the record:

“This album plays in quite a dark realm of topics… but I also think that’s exactly what will make this album accessible to people going through tougher times… The music shows hope for a positive way out, and hopefully offers the listener the will to fight on.”

Iron Kingdom will celebrate the album with their biggest hometown headliner yet at Vancouver’s iconic Rickshaw Theatre on June 5, 2026. Info – https://orangetickets.ca/detalles_evento.php?id_evento=2127

“To feel in some way that we have worked our way up to headline a venue of that size is very exciting, and we cannot wait to bring our biggest show yet!”

Following the album’s release, Iron Kingdom will hit the road across Western Canada (dates listed below) with confirmed festival appearances at Armstrong Metal Fest and Loud As Hell Open Air Festival.

True North Strong And Heavy Canadian Tour – Iron Kingdom, W.M.D.
https://www.iron-kingdom.com/tour-dates
June 5 – Vancouver, BC – The Rickshaw
July 2 – Nanaimo, BC – The Globe
July 3 – Victoria, BC – Lucky Bar
July 4 – Cumberland, BC – The Waverley
July 5 – Powell River, BC – The Carlson Loft
July 17 – Armstrong, BC – AMF 2026
July 21 – Prince George, BC – Knox Performance Centre
July 23 – Whitehorse, YT – Lefty’s Well
July 24 – Dawson City, YT – The Pit
July 25 – Dawson City, YT – The Pit
July 26 – Whitehorse, YT – The 98 Hotel
July 28 – Yellowknife, NT – The Underground
July 29 – Fort Smith, NT – Dirty O’ Fergie’s
July 30 – Edmonton, AB – Starlite
July 31 – Drumheller, AB – LAH 2026
Aug 1 – Winnipeg, MB – Park Theatre
Aug 2 – Thunder Bay, ON – Bloom Bar + Lounge
Aug 3 – Sudbury, ON – The Lounge 390
Aug 4 – London, ON – Supply & Demand
Aug 5 – Waterloo, ON – Maxwells
Aug 6 – Ottawa, ON – Dominion Tavern
Aug 7 – Toronto, ON – Bovine
Aug 8 – Montréal, QC – Foufounes Électriques
Aug 9 – Sherbrooke, QC – Le Murdoch
Aug 11 – Woodstock, NB – Monteith Manor
Aug 12 – Halifax, NS – Gus’ Pub
Aug 14 – Corner Brook, NL – Retro
Aug 15 – St. John’s, NL – The Rockhouse
Aug 17 – Truro, NS – Marigold Cult. Centre (Lobby)
Aug 18 – Quebec City, QC – L’Anti
Aug 19 – Hamilton, ON – Doors Pub
Aug 21 – Saskatoon, SK – Black Cat Tavern
Aug 22 – Calgary, AB – Dicken’s
Aug 23 – Kelowna, BC – Jackknife Brewing

Formed in 2011 in Vancouver, Iron Kingdom carries the flame of classic heavy metal inspired by Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Helloween, The Scorpions, and Rush. Known for their high‑energy performances, intricate twin‑guitar work, and unwavering DIY ethos, the band has toured extensively across Canada, the USA, Europe, and Brazil, sharing stages with Night Demon, Blaze Bayley, and more.

Their discography includes “Curse of the Voodoo Queen” (2011), “Gates of Eternity” (2013), “Ride for Glory” (2015), “On the Hunt” (2019), and “The Blood of Creation” (2022). “Shadows and Dust” marks the next chapter in their evolution, an album that blends old‑school metal spirit with fresh energy and emotional depth.

Album pre-order (release date June 6th, 2026) available at the following links:

Official Merch store: https://www.iron-kingdom.com/shop
Bandcamp: https://iron-kingdom.bandcamp.com/music

Music Video – Defenders – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3k7tW5-9Os

Lyric Video – Blood and Steel – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qb8BIzHT3_Q

Track Listing:
1. Defenders
2. Eternal Emperor
3. Dreamless Sea
4. Deadhouse Gates
5. Line Of Fire
6. Blood And Steel
7. Shadow Of Time
8. Dark Demands
9. Starlight
10. Sacred Fire

For more info:
https://www.iron-kingdom.com
https://www.facebook.com/ironkingdomofficial
https://www.instagram.com/iron_kingdom

– 30 –

“Ten tracks leading to a beautiful journey you will wish to live forever. A masterpiece to own with pleasure. Iron Kingdom has arrived on the stardom stairs, and it’s worth it 100/100.” – The Metal Mag

“the entire album is rock-solid from start to finish. If you call yourself a metal fan, this is a mandatory addition to your playlist.” – Broken Neck Radio

“If you only have one selection to convince someone whether they should invest time/money/effort into Iron Kingdom, play them “Shadow Of Time” as it locks into the classic sound they do so well. Winner!” – Mark Gromen – Bravewords

“Iron Kingdom has really taken their stance with hard rock and heavy metal to a standstill, packed with amazement and shining glory in all of its wonder, but making sure the two genres between the NWOBHM and thrash eras are kept in their mighty epic book of ingredients to keep you coming back for more. What can I say? Shadows and Dust is the album we’ve been waiting for this upcoming summer of 2026.” – Echoes and Dust

“After countless tours, line-up changes and even after a serious accident, IRON KINGDOM seem stronger today than ever. With ‘Shadows And Dust’ they deliver exactly the album that traditionalists have been longing for for years. Powerful, melodic, anthemic and rousing, full of great guitar moments and an honest passion for classic heavy metal. If you love IRON MAIDEN, RIOT, HELLOWEEN or SAVATAGE, you should definitely grab it here. The release in all formats as well as via “Steel Shark Records” with vinyl for collectors also fits in with this.” – Saitenkult

“Iron Kingdom’s sixth full-length continues the band’s upward trajectory in a way that is both concise and still varied. Every track has just enough difference between to make them all stand out from one another, while never feeling like they belong to a different artist. 2022’s “Blood of Creation” was an absolute clinic in modern metal perfection, and it would always be a tough act to follow but Iron Kingdom did so with gusto. Masterfully produced and even better performed, “Shadows and Dust” is one of the years best.” – The NWOTHM

“If you enjoy classic heavy metal and want more of that timeless sound, then ‘Shadows and Dust’ will feel very familiar in a good way… it is honest, energetic, and enjoyable from start to finish.” – AfterNoiz

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0 Canada’s Mock‑Rock Cult Heroes SONS OF BUTCHER Unveils Raunch-Fueled Video “Steeltown Handy” Off New EP “Skids”

May 20, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Sons of Butcher

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 19, 2026

Canada’s Mock‑Rock Cult Heroes SONS OF BUTCHER Unveil Raunch-Fueled Video “Steeltown Handy”

New EP “Skids” Out Now!

L-R – Doug Borski – Bass/Vocals, Joey Salami – Guitar, Crissy Stixx – Drums, Ricky Butcher – Lead Vocals/Guitar

Photo Credit – Evan Thompson

Canada’s cult mock‑rock legends Sons of Butcher have dropped the brand‑new music video for “Steeltown Handy,” the latest visual installment supporting their newly released EP “Skids,” released this past March 2026. The video continues the band’s expanding skid‑rock universe, following the recent singles “Peppercorn Steak,” “Denim Dreamin’,” and “Makin’ Bacon.”

A pop‑leaning rocker soaked in grit, grime, and Sons of Butcher’s trademark raunch‑comedy charm, “Steeltown Handy” dives into the underbelly of Hamilton’s streets with a chorus built for shouting along. The video leans fully into that world, equal parts sleaze, satire, and skid‑life sincerity, delivering a visual companion as catchy and unhinged as the track itself.

“This EP marks the first time we’ve written songs that aren’t tied directly to the cartoon storyline. Except for ‘Peppercorn Steak,’ these songs come straight from our grease‑clogged hearts. ‘Steeltown Handy’ is pure skid‑anthem energy, wrong in all the right ways,” says frontman Ricky Butcher.

Released on March 27, 2026, “Skids” marks Sons of Butcher’s first major collection since 2020’s “Lockdown in Steeltown” and their first full creative surge since reuniting after a decade‑long hiatus. Produced by longtime collaborator Jordon Zadorozny at Skylark Park, the EP showcases a sharper, more polished version of the band’s signature absurdity.

The four‑track EP includes 4 tracks, “Denim Dreamin’,” a socially acceptable ode to denim culture. “Makin’ Bacon”, a metal‑forward bacon‑worshipping anthem. “Steeltown Handy”, a pop‑rock banger about desperation deals in the gritty city. “Peppercorn Steak” is a fully realized studio version of a fan‑favourite cartoon‑era track. The EP also features drumming by Kellii Scott (Failure), completing a full‑circle moment for the band’s long‑running creative lineage.

Born from their Teletoon animated series, Sons of Butcher fuse absurdist comedy with heavy rock in a proudly self‑proclaimed genre: mock rock. Known for spandex, pepperette‑throwing, chaotic stage antics, and butcher‑shop‑bred humour, the band has built a cult following across Canada.

With “Skids,” Sons of Butcher aren’t just back, they’re carving forward with their most polished and unfiltered work to date.

Watch the video for “Steeltown Handy” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2ki1ioWm6A

Recommended for fans of Tenacious D, Spinal Tap, Psychostick, and Steel Panther, “Skids” (released March 27th, 2026) is available at the following links:

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/7M0suHkgLiADLzbMXegRjV

Bandcamp (CD and Digital) – https://sonsofbutcher.bandcamp.com/album/skids

Music Video – Makin’ Bacon – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lnsb7uWp4g

Music Video – Denim Dreamin’ – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZNUtzaO8IY

Music Video – Peppercorn Steak – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9tMsBq0GvGg

Track Listing:
1. Denim Dreamin’ – (3:05)
2. Makin’ Bacon – (2:37)
3. Steeltown Handy – (2:21)
4. Peppercorn Steak – (1:42)

EP Line Up:
Ricky Butcher – Lead Vocals, Guitar
Doug Borski – Vocals, Bass
Kellii Scott – Drums
Jordon Zadorozny – Lead Guitar
Brandon Wars – Lead Guitar

Live Band Line Up:
Ricky Butcher – Vocals, Guitar
Doug Borski – Vocals, Bass
Crissy Stixx – Drums
Joey Salami – Lead Guitar

More Info:

https://www.sonsofbutcher.ca/

https://www.facebook.com/therealsobs

https://www.instagram.com/therealsobs/

-30-

“You can have fun with the SONS OF BUTCHER… solid entertainment awaits you.” – PowerMetal.de (Skids – 2026)

““Skids” is a raw, four‑track eruption of cheap‑meat swagger and skid‑life grit” – Music Life Magazine (Skids – 2026)

“Sons of Butcher return meatier than ever… Unlike many novelty acts, Sons of Butcher proved they had the chops to back up the joke. Fronted by Trevor Ziebarth as Ricky Butcher, the band transformed the cartoon’s crude comedy into a live show filled with spandex, shredded guitar riffs, flying pepperettes, and an onstage meat-tray ritual that has become a bizarre but beloved tradition. Musically, their sound lands somewhere between classic metal, power-pop hooks, and full-throttle comedy rock, often compared to acts like Tenacious D, Steel Panther, Spinal Tap, and Psychostick.” – Hamilton City Magazine (Skids – 2026)

“Originally born from a school project and catapulted into the mainstream via their own animated series, the band has spent over two decades crafting what they call “comedic ear-worm riff rock.” – Switching Styles

“The band haven’t lost their touch for “mock rock” absurdity, swinging from the denim-soaked bounce of “Denim Dreamin’” to the gritty swagger of “Steeltown Handy”…. If you’re a fan of Tenacious D, Psychostick, or Steel Panther, you’ll want to get this one on your radar. ” – Moshville Times

“Keeping with the butcher theme, the band played its fair share of meat-themed tunes such as “Beef & the Chicken” and “Makin’ Bacon” during their high energy set, alongside fan favourites like “Fuck the Shit”, “We Fuckin’ Rule,” and of course, “Sons of Butcher Theme,” all of it delivered with the proper big, dumb rock ‘n’ roll attitude and absolutely zero subtlety. Steeltown skids represent!” – Panic Manual (Live Review – Toronto 2026)

“However one slices it, SONS OF BUTCHER’s long-awaited comeback only further prove that good entertainment has no expiry date.” – KNAC (Live Review – Ottawa 2026)

“After a ten year hiatus, the rock behind Teletoon’s cult animated series, is back as Sons of Butcher release a new 4-track EP, “Skids”. The riffs, thunderous percussion and lyrics are designed to put fun back in rock and that they do. Tracks like ‘Makin’ Bacon’, ‘Steeltown Handy’ and ‘Denim Dreamin” are built for a party and a great reminder that rock should never take itself too seriously. So if you’re lookin’ for a good time listen up for Sons of Butcher on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll (Skids – 2026)

“Be careful, be careful, these Canadians are downright crazy and it starts to show as soon as you look at the cover. They do a crazy ’ Rock n’ Roll fuckin, crazy, humorous, delirious… this EP, well, that’s it, big fuckin’ madness. «Makin’ Bacon», for example, is hilarious, while sending the Caribou to play in the woods. This EP by SONS OF BUTCHER is a big slice of good humor, made by musicians who don’t take themselves seriously. Despite the weather, these guys are still crazy…. A CD for fans of ULTRA VOMIT, NANOWAR OF STEEL and others, in short for fans of joyful Metal. And that gives 4 titles for 4 peaks ! Personally, I’m really a customer.” – WTR Mag (Skids – 2026)

“In its brief runtime, Skids delivers a clear statement: the band hasn’t lost its grit, just sharpened it… Sons of Butcher embraces its original spirit with honesty, energy, and unapologetic attitude… Skids finds meaning in the space between parody and authenticity, where the band has always thrived.” – FirstWave Radio (Skids – 2026)

“Sons Of Butcher prove that after all these years they are still masters at combining sleazy rock, chaos, and pure fun. Anyone who loves dirty guitars, rattling rock, and a hefty dose of self-mockery is in the right place here. The gas pedal stays pressed – and fortunately so.” – Musika (Skids – 2026)

““Skids” stands out as a release with a clear entertainment-driven focus… an immediate and thoroughly enjoyable listening experience.” – MetalWar (Skids – 2026)

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0 AITTALA Unleash New Performance Video “Blacklisted,” the First to Feature New Bassist Dane Taylor + Tour Dates (WV, VA, TN, NC)

May 19, 2026
by Asher
· Aittala (Exitus Stratagem Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 19, 2026

AITTALA Unleash New Performance Video “Blacklisted,” the First to Feature New Bassist Dane Taylor

+ Tour Dates (WV, VA, TN, NC)

New EP “Ill-Gotten Gains” Out Now via Exitus Stratagem Records

AITTALA Lineup – Gary ‘Smith’ Zeus (Drums), Eric Aittala (Guitar/Vox), Dane Taylor (Bass)

AITTALA (pronounced EYE‑tah‑la) has released the official performance video for “Blacklisted,” the third track from their second EP of 2025, “Ill‑Gotten Gains,” out now on Exitus Stratagem Records.

The clip marks a milestone for the long‑running metal project; it is the first video to feature new bassist Dane Taylor, joining Eric Aittala (guitars/vocals) and Gary “Zeus” Smith (drums). The trio’s chemistry is on full display, delivering a tight, groove‑driven performance that captures the grit and weight of the track.

A groove‑ and sludge‑inspired standout, “Blacklisted” serves as the thematic counterpoint to the EP’s opening tracks “Isolation” and “Ill‑Gotten Gains.” Where those songs explore the chaos created by self‑serving actions, “Blacklisted” flips the perspective, calling out the people who manipulate, exploit, and leave destruction in their wake.

Musically, the song leans into thick riffs, a grinding mid‑tempo pulse, and the band’s signature blend of heaviness and melody. It’s a concise, punishing statement that reinforces why AITTALA’s sound remains difficult to categorize, and impossible to ignore.

Watch the video via its premiere on Metal Addicts HERE.

Released this past November, “Ill‑Gotten Gains” continues AITTALA’s tradition of blurring metal subgenres, pulling from traditional metal, doom, groove, progressive elements, and more to create a cohesive, emotionally charged experience.

The EP’s lyrics trace a path from chaos to consequence to the search for redemption, examining how people create disorder for personal gain, face the fallout of those choices, and grapple with whether forgiveness is still possible. Each track sharpens that arc: “Isolation” delivers doomy heaviness and shifting time signatures as it confronts consequences; “Ill‑Gotten Gains” rides a bouncing 8‑string riff into the mindset of exploiting chaos; “Blacklisted” uses groove‑sludge grit to call out manipulative behavior; “Ever After” offers a modern metal ballad of internal struggle and uncertain redemption; and “Ashes” leans into traditional heavy metal as it follows someone spiraling downward and pulling others with them.

The EP cover features an updated version of Frank, AITTALA’s long‑running mascot, a cartoon pig head inside a pentagram, created in 2014 for the album “Effigy.” Frank represents the shady figure who helps acquire “ill‑gotten gains”…for the right price. His return on the cover ties directly into the EP’s themes of corruption, consequence, and moral decay.

AITTALA’s sound resists simple labels, blending classic heavy metal, doom, groove, progressive and power metal, thrash, and hard rock into a style that’s distinctly their own. Lyrically, Eric Aittala pulls from the darker edges of human experience, crafting songs that balance heaviness with introspection.

Founded in 1991 in the Netherlands, AITTALA quickly became a staple of the Dutch metal scene, even opening for The Gathering and Sadist after releasing their 1993 EP “Selling Heaven.”

After disbanding and later resurrecting the project in 2008, AITTALA released six full‑length albums between 2009 and 2022, followed by the “Machines” EP (2025). Each release showcases the band’s evolution while preserving their unmistakable core sound.

Recommended for fans of Mastodon, Eyehate God, Baroness, Crowbar, Katatonia, live music enthusiasts can catch AITTALA at the following show dates below.

Aittala Tour Dates (WV, VA, TN, NC)
May 21 – Tilty McFlipperz – Martinsburg, WV
May 22 – The Spot on Kirk – Roanoke, VA
May 23 – Capones – Johnson City, TN
Jun 19 – Cannonball Music Hall – Raleigh, NC
Jul 31 – The Den | Winston – Salem, NC
Aug 7- White Rabbit Pub – Fayetteville, NC
Aug 29 – Scandals Live – Virginia Beach, VA

“Ill-Gotten Gains” (released Nov 21, 2025) is available from Exitus Stratagem Records – https://hypeddit.com/aittala/illgottengains

Music Video – “Isolation” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V5Y_azlkGLg

Music Video – “Ill-Gotten Gains” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjlP92y_sQg

Lyric Video – “Ever After” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipo98unZUoQ

Track Listing:
1. Isolation – 4:22
2. Ill Gotten Gains – 4:20
3. Black Listed – 3:35
4. Ever After – 4:29
5. Ashes – 3:50
EP Length: 20:37

Live lineup:
Eric Aittala – Guitars/Vocals
Gary “Zeus” Smith – Drums
Dane Taylor – Bass

For more info: Exsrmusic.com | Aittala.com | Facebook.com/aittalamusic | Instagram.com/aittalamusic

– 30 –

“Six full-lengths, two EPs, strong and steady since 2008. Dang. What keeps North Carolina trio AITTALA going? Sheer compulsion for music making is my guess. There’s nothing like the experience of the real thing, despite the obscene ease and seductive sophistication of AI fakery. To hear and feel heavy music live from their minds and voices and hands of real human beings just like you – well, there’s just nothing like it. Bands with stubborn longevity like Aittala serve as an inspiration to the scene. Pick up an instrument, get to jamming, let your voice be heard. If this is your first encounter with the band, perhaps “Isolation” is as good an introduction as any. Mysterious strumming, powerful emphatic chords, and wall-shaking disruption clears the path for soulful, soaring guitar soloing and somber Gothic intonations.” – Doomed & Stoned (2025)

“Bookended by “Machines (Prologue)” and “Machines (Epilogue)”, the album’s structure feels like a full-circle journey. One that captures the essence of the band’s evolution. The blend of storytelling and heavy music makes it clear why these tracks were worth bringing back. With Machines, Aittala doesn’t just revisit the past. They make it hit harder than ever.” – Amplify The Noise (2025 – Machines EP)

“Captivatingly versatile, genre-connecting with plenty of attitude. An intensely powerful and emotionally captivating Electric Doom/Heavy/Power HouseTrip that is excellent at combining expansive melodies and atmospheric melancholic heavy touch. 8/10” – FFM-Rock (2025 – Machines EP)

“A pure blast of good tunes flying around for life. A retro llike cover artwork, it matches it all. The atmosphere and the old tunes still ringing after so many years like it was yesterday. A very good album to own with pleasure. Aittala is here to stay, get your dose of good tunes 100/100.” – The Metal Mag (2025 – Machines EP)

“Eric Aittala is obviously nostalgic on ‘Machines’. But that in no way means that the sound is frozen in the past. On the contrary, the production is modern and powerful. The individual songs are thus transferred to the here and now. A good album, even if the band is ‘only’ a duo.” – Metalheads Forever Magazine (2025 – Machines EP)

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0 HELLMETALL Unleashes New Single “Gemona Btg. Doesn’t Exist Anymore” From Upcoming Album “Mgla” Out Sept 2026

May 18, 2026
by Asher
· HELLMETALL (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 18, 2026

HELLMETALL Unleashes New Single “Gemona Btg. Doesn’t Exist Anymore”

New Album “Mgla” Out Sept 2026

HELLMETALL unveil “Gemona Btg. Doesn’t Exist Anymore”, the second single taken from their forthcoming album “Mgla“, set for release on September 4th, 2026, via Rockshots Records.

Emerging from the isolated mountain valley of Resia, on the border between Italy, Austria, and Slovenia, HELLMETALL continue to forge a deeply personal vision of Thrash/Death Metal rooted in memory, identity, and cultural heritage. What sets the band apart is not only the violent fusion of razor-sharp Thrash riffs, Death Metal aggression, and dark melodic undertones but also their uncompromising decision to perform entirely in Resian – the ancient Slavic language still spoken in Val Resia.

Far beyond a stylistic choice, the use of Resian represents the very core of HELLMETALL’s artistic identity. Through this endangered and highly distinctive language, the band forges local history into something visceral and immediate, preserving the voice, memory, and spirit of their homeland through extreme music. As vocalist and founder Daniele Micelli explains, “the project was born from the desire to merge aggressive metal with the folk traditions and cultural heritage of the valley where I grew up“.

Musically, “Gemona Btg. Doesn’t Exist Anymore” perfectly embodies the band’s evolution toward a darker, heavier, and more mature sound. While early HELLMETALL material incorporated stronger folk elements and violin arrangements, “Mgla” pushes the band deeper into Death and Black Metal territories while retaining the melodic sensibility inherited from the musical traditions of Val Resia. The result is a sound defined by crushing riff work, relentless rhythmic intensity, and haunting melodic passages, balancing violence and memorability with remarkable authenticity.

Lyrically, the single continues HELLMETALL’s exploration of the traumatic events that scarred the mountains and borderlands surrounding their homeland during the First and Second World Wars. “Gemona Btg. Doesn’t Exist Anymore” is dedicated to the Alpini soldiers of the 8th Regiment Julia Battalion Gemona. After surviving the Albanian campaign against Greek forces, the battalion was struck by tragedy when the steamship Galilea, carrying the soldiers back toward Italy, was sunk by a British submarine. Most drowned at sea, while many of the survivors were later sent to die on the Russian front.

This historical and emotional depth lies at the heart of “Mgla” – a record whose title, meaning “Fog,” reflects the oppressive atmosphere surrounding the stories narrated throughout the album. Across its tracks, HELLMETALL channel the brutality of war, the oral memories passed down through generations, and the harsh reality of mountain life into an uncompromising sonic assault sung entirely in the language of their ancestors.

Following the release of the album’s title track “Mgla” earlier this year, “Gemona Btg. Doesn’t Exist Anymore” further confirms HELLMETALL as one of the most distinctive and culturally unique acts emerging from the contemporary extreme metal underground.

With an intense live activity already extending beyond Italy into Eastern Europe, including appearances at Austria’s Kaltenbach Open Air and a dedicated Polish mini-tour later in 2026, HELLMETALL are steadily expanding their presence while remaining fiercely connected to the identity and traditions of Val Resia.

“Mgla” will be released on September 4th, 2026.

Spotify – https://lnk.to/AxZae1

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqxfiouR51w

PRE ORDER “MGLA“: https://rockshots.eu/products/hellmetall-mgla-cd

HELLMETALL lineup (“Mgla” era / until October 2025):

Daniele Micelli: Vocals
Damiano Biasutto: Guitar
Matteo Cameran: Guitar
Luca Fumagalli: Bass
Gabriele Barbarino: Drums

Current lineup:

Daniele Micelli: Vocals
Damiano Biasutto: Guitar
Matteo Cameran: Guitar
Luca Fumagalli: Bass
Federico Zuin: Drums

More info:

https://www.rockshots.eu

https://www.instagram.com/hellmetall_official/

https://www.facebook.com/HellMetAll.Resia

About:
HELLMETALL is a Thrash/Death Metal band from Resia (Udine), a remote mountain valley located at the crossroads between Italy, Austria, and Slovenia. Since their formation, the band has developed a distinctive artistic identity by combining aggressive extreme metal with the cultural heritage and historical memory of their homeland. Their most recognizable trait is the use of Resian – the ancient Slavic language spoken in Val Resia – as the exclusive language for their lyrics, giving their music a unique and deeply authentic character.

Musically, HELLMETALL blends the violence and speed of Thrash Metal with the heaviness of Death Metal, enriched by dark melodic textures inspired by the blend of traditions of their valley. Originally featuring stronger folk elements and violin arrangements, the band has progressively evolved toward a heavier and darker sonic direction, incorporating stronger Death and Black Metal influences while preserving the melodic sensibility that has always defined their sound.

The lyrical concept behind HELLMETALL is deeply rooted in the history of Val Resia and the surrounding border territories. Their songs recount real events connected to the First and Second World Wars, drawing inspiration from local memories, stories passed down through generations, and the personal experiences of their ancestors. Through their uncompromising musical approach and the evocative power of the Resian language, the band transforms historical trauma and mountain folklore into a raw and visceral extreme metal experience.

HELLMETALL released their debut album “Sa Naso Semjo” in 2015, establishing the foundations of their aggressive and culturally distinctive sound. In early 2026, the band unveiled “Mgła“, the title track from their forthcoming second studio album “Mgla“, scheduled for release on September 4th, 2026. The new material marks a significant evolution in both songwriting and production, presenting a darker, more mature, and focused incarnation of the band.

Alongside an intense live activity throughout Italy, HELLMETALL has increasingly expanded its presence across Eastern Europe. Their 2026 schedule includes an Eastern European tour, an appearance at Austria’s Kaltenbach Open Air festival, and a dedicated Polish mini-tour later in the year, further strengthening the band’s growing reputation within the underground extreme metal scene.

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

May 18, 2026
by Asher
· Little King · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 18, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Little King – WestCoast USA Tour 2026
July 10 – Ruidoso, NM – Downshift Brewery Riverside
July 12 – Tucson, AZ – Brick Box Brewery w/ The Crown Syndicate and Zold
July 14 – Tempe, AZ – Yucca Tap Room
July 15 – Anaheim, CA – The World Famous Doll Hut
July 16 – San Diego, CA – The Holding Company w/ Stretcher
July 18 – West Hollywood, CA – The Viper Room
July 19 – Pacifica, CA – Winters Tavern w/ The Wandering Jews and Melting Elephants
July 23 – Bisbee, AZ – Gene’s Place
July 25 – El Paso, TX – Lowbrow Palace

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
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0 Out Now! HEAVENFALL’s New Album “Thorn” + Stop Motion Video “The Wind Chimes Garden”

May 15, 2026
by Asher
· Heavenfall (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 15, 2026

Out Now! HEAVENFALL’s New Album “Thorn” + Stop Motion Video “The Wind Chimes Garden”

New Album “Thorn” Out May 15th, 2026 via Rockshots Records

Italian heavy metal band Heavenfall officially releases their new studio album “Thorn” today (May 15th) via Rockshots Records, marking the culmination of a creative journey that has progressively revealed the band’s most mature, introspective, and emotionally layered work to date. To celebrate the release, the band also unveils the official stop-motion video for “The Wind Chimes Garden”, one of the album’s most atmospheric and emotionally resonant compositions.

Across its eleven tracks, “Thorn” moves beyond traditional heavy metal formulas in favor of a more fluid and emotionally connected songwriting style. The album retains a strong riff-oriented foundation, but compositions evolve through layered guitar work, carefully shaped dynamics, and continuous interplay between aggression and atmosphere. Faster songs deliver immediacy and impact, while slower and mid-tempo passages introduce darker grooves and more reflective tonalities that reinforce the album’s introspective core.

The guitar work remains central throughout the entire record, alternating between incisive rhythmic patterns and expressive melodic phrasing. Rather than functioning as mere embellishment, lead guitars actively reinforce the emotional direction of each composition. Tracks such as “Midnightingale” reveal a more fragile and melancholic side of the band through bittersweet harmonic development and nuanced arrangements. At the same time, the closing suite “Stramonium” expands the album’s progressive scope without sacrificing cohesion or narrative flow.

Lyrically, “Thorn” explores emotional fragmentation, self-confrontation, and the lingering psychological weight carried through life experiences. The album title itself symbolizes the emotional splinter that remains embedded within the individual, continuously shaping perception, memory, and identity. Rather than relying on abstract symbolism alone, Heavenfall maintains a direct yet poetic lyrical approach, allowing themes of disillusionment, emotional isolation, and self-deception to emerge with both personal intimacy and universal resonance.

Coinciding with the album release, Heavenfall now premieres the official stop-motion video for “The Wind Chimes Garden”. One of the album’s most evocative moments, the song explores emotional withdrawal and the fragile balance between protection and freedom. Built around ethereal melodies, melancholic atmospheres, and a deeply introspective lyrical perspective, the track perfectly embodies the emotional depth and artistic direction that define “Thorn”.

The production of “Thorn” further strengthens the album’s identity through a sound approach focused on clarity, depth, and dynamic balance. Produced by the band with drums recorded by Maurizio Cardullo at Crono Sound Factory and mixing and mastering handled by Davide Tavecchia at Twilight Studio, the album delivers a powerful yet highly detailed sonic impact. Guitars remain articulate and harmonically rich without losing aggression; the rhythm section preserves both precision and depth; and vocals maintain expressive nuance and emotional immediacy throughout the listening experience.

“Thorn” was recorded by Dest (vocals), Pave and Giò (guitars), Nick (bass), and Panta (drums), while the current live line-up continues to translate the same intensity and emotional connection onto the stage. Throughout the years, Heavenfall has shared stages with bands such as Q5, Domine, Elvenking, and Crying Steel, steadily building a reputation grounded in consistency, authenticity, and strong audience engagement.

Positioned between the dramatic intensity of Nevermore, the riff-driven power of Iced Earth, and the narrative sensibility of Savatage, “Thorn” stands as Heavenfall’s most complete and emotionally focused work to date, a deliberate, cohesive, and enduring heavy metal album shaped by artistic maturity, compositional discipline, and emotional authenticity.

Watch the official music video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iRt8hez9RRg
Video by Stefania Balzarotti

Listen to the album: https://lnk.to/HfThorn

New album “Thorn” out today, May 15th, 2026

CD ORDER “Thorn“: https://rockshots.eu/products/heavenfall-thorn-cd

Music Video – No Candelight – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMqJJAZaQDE

Lyric Video – Squall-led – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SGYWX5blAUQ

Track Listing:
1. Squall-led – 3:37
2. Sudden Zenith – 4:04
3. No Candlelight – 4:13
4. This Illusion – 3:51
5. Left Apart – 4:23
6. Lingering Under The Acid Rain – 4:43
7. Midwinter In July – 4:45
8. Ora Pro Nemine – 4:53
9. Midnightingale – 5:41
10. The Wind Chimes Garden – 4:55
11. Stramonium – 8:10
Album Length: 53:15

Album Line-up
Dest: Vocals
Pave: Guitars
Giò: Guitars
Nick: Bass
Panta: Drums

Current Lineup:
Dest: Vocals
Pave: Guitars
Simo: Guitars
Stefano: Bass
Marco: Drums

More info: https://www.rockshots.eu | https://www.instagram.com/heavenfallmetal/ | https://www.facebook.com/Heavenfallmetal/

ABOUT:

Heavenfall was formed in 2003 by four teenage friends united by a shared urgency to express themselves through heavy music. What started as a raw and instinctive project, built with limited means but strong determination, gradually evolved into a defined artistic identity rooted in classic heavy and thrash metal, enriched by darker and more introspective elements. From the outset, the band focused on developing a personal sound rather than adhering strictly to genre conventions.

Following years of rehearsals, songwriting, and live activity, Heavenfall released their debut full-length “Falling From Heaven” in 2012, receiving positive feedback from both audiences and specialized press. The 2017 EP “The Besiders” confirmed the band’s steady growth, highlighting a more mature compositional approach and a stronger inclination toward introspective and emotionally layered songwriting.

A consistent live presence has played a key role in the band’s development. Heavenfall is known for delivering intense and engaging performances, built on direct interaction with the audience. Over the years, they have shared the stage with established acts such as Q5, Domine, Elvenking, and Crying Steel, strengthening their position within the European heavy metal circuit.

In 2026, the band will release their new full-length album “Thorn” via Rockshots Records, marking a further step in their artistic evolution. The record reflects a natural progression toward a heavier, more introspective and structurally refined sound, consistent with the trajectory the band has been shaping since its early years.

Now active for over two decades, Heavenfall stands as a cohesive and experienced act whose path has been defined by continuity, stylistic coherence, and a clear commitment to their own vision of heavy metal.

—
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0 LUFEH Unleashes Their Heavy Prog Fusion “War of Emotions” From Sophomore Album “Overwhelmed” Out May 2026

May 15, 2026
by Asher
· Lufeh · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 15, 2026

LUFEH Unleashes Their Heavy Prog Fusion “War of Emotions” From Sophomore Album “Overwhelmed” Out May 2026

Photo Credit – Joao Pinheiro

Progressive rock collective LUFEH return with their most intense and emotionally charged release yet, “War of Emotions,” the fourth single from their upcoming album “Overwhelmed,” due out May 29th. Following the success of their recent singles “Double Dip,” the album’s title track “Overwhelmed,” and the soaring first single “He Commands the Sun and the Stars,” this new offering dives deep into the psychological battlefield within.

A dramatic fusion of LUFEH’s sophisticated prog sensibilities and a heavier, metal‑leaning edge, “War of Emotions” stands out as one of the band’s most cathartic tracks to date. Musically, the single blends heavier guitar tones with LUFEH’s signature progressive arrangements, anchored by expressive keyboards and soaring vocal lines. Lyrically, it explores the clash between truth and illusion, the struggle of confronting one’s own reflection, and the emotional turbulence of personal transformation.
It stands as one of the album’s most dramatic and cathartic moments.

“This song is about an internal war, the moment when truth and illusion blur, and you realize your biggest battle is with your own reflection. It’s about finally facing yourself so you can move toward the light,” says drummer and band founder Lufeh Batera.

Listen and watch the video for “War of Emotions” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLpdNpBKaqM

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/3r8oDsgH4HxsP9LaBwHO7W

With “Overwhelmed,” LUFEH intentionally evolved from the more technical, instrumental focus of their debut “Luggage Falling Down.” This time, the band built every track around memorable vocal melodies, sing‑along choruses, and emotional clarity, without sacrificing their trademark rhythmic complexity.

“We wanted complicated music that’s also catchy. All eight songs have strong vocal parts and choruses that stick with you. I think fans will really connect with that balance,” explains Batera.

The album also marks a major sonic expansion with the addition of Ginny Luke, internationally recognized electric violinist and vocalist known for her work with Foo Fighters, Britney Spears, Snoop Dogg, Miguel, and more. Her violin appears on three tracks, adding a dramatic new dimension to LUFEH’s sound.

LUFEH’s core members, Lufeh Batera, guitarist Deio Tambasco, and bassist Duca Tambasco, share a musical bond spanning more than 30 years, dating back to their early days in Anno Domini. Their long‑standing chemistry fuels the band’s collaborative writing process, even as Lufeh works from Los Angeles and the rest of the band from São Paulo.

Roughly 70% of the new album was created online, with ideas exchanged daily across continents. Keyboardist and producer Gera Penna shaped the album’s sonic architecture, while lyricist Dennis Atlas crafted nearly all of the album’s thematic narrative.

“Overwhelmed” was recorded at Sunset Sound in Los Angeles, the historic studio home to iconic albums by Prince, Van Halen, The Doors, and countless others. The result is LUFEH’s most mature, emotionally resonant, and musically refined work to date.

The album’s artwork reflects its emotional weight: a submerged silhouette suspended underwater, caught between heaviness and hope, mirroring the album’s balance of intensity and release.

Recommended for fans of Rush, Dream Theater, Haken, Sleep Token, and Tool, LUFEH‘s new album “Overwhelmed” marks a bold new era, one defined by melody, maturity, and a renewed creative spark.

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

Videos:

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:

http://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.

– 30 -

“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)

“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)

“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)

“From the riff heavy opener Find My Way to the latest single ‘My World’ and the sharp riffs of closing track The Edge’, these are 20-minute epics condensed into welcome four-minute compositions. It’s an interesting stance for any progressive band but Lufeh have caught it right on the nail. This is an album full of cleverness and maturity. A joy to listen to, Luggage Falling Down’ provides opportunity to marvel at the quality and the playing. In a world which has lost its marbles, this album is a breath of fresh air. 8/10” – Powerplay Magazine UK (2020 – Luggage Falling Down)

“Luggage Falling Down will be a pleasant surprise for those who enjoy their prog on the heavy side, with occasional flourishes of metal, plenty of instrumental workouts, short song formats and a strong foundation in jazz. The eight songs are technical, energetic and always seeking a melodic hook.” – DPRP (2020 – Lugage Falling Down)

“In addition to brevity, there is Luggage Falling Down nothing wrong. Fantastic prog metal, crisply short songs that are still varied. Matching singing in the intersection between James LaBrie And Brendon Boyd as well as terrific guitar and drum inserts. Very entertaining and fun…. Luggage Falling Down a very entertaining record ahead of us. 9 /10 does that for me.” – Sound Magnet

“Anyone starting to get tired of all the cliché album titles and song titles? LUFEH are going their own way and I really like this album title ”Luggage Falling Down”!… I have to say the LUFEH guys have some moves of their own, which makes this album more interesting than most progressive metal albums. The RUSH vibes are not the most obvious ones, but the verse of ”Trial Of Escapade” clearly shows that these guys like the Canadian trio. There’s a smashing guitar solo from Dornellas in this one too.” – Melodic.net – (2020 Luggage Falling Down)

“A track from prog debutants Lufeh now, as I ‘Find My Way’ straight into being earwormed by their Prog metal goodness. Guitar solos that sound like they’ve been written by some of the hard rock greats, with plenty of atmospheric synths and across the board able musicianship means this one was a sure fire hit from the off!” – Uber Rock (2020 Luggage Falling Down)

“This is heavy prog with some strong elements” – Prog Archives (2020 Luggage Falling Down)

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Jon Asher – Music Publicist
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0 Canadian Progressive Death CONFLUX COLLECTIVE Announces Its “Reincarnation” w/ New Album “In the Wake of Saturn” Out June 2026

May 15, 2026
by Asher
· Conflux Collective · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 15, 2026

Canadian Progressive Death CONFLUX COLLECTIVE Announces Its “Reincarnation” w/ New Album “In the Wake of Saturn” Out June 2026

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

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

After years of dormancy, reinvention, and sheer force of will, The Conflux Collective erupts back into the extreme‑metal landscape with the announcement of their long‑awaited debut LP, “In the Wake of Saturn,” arriving June 19th, 2026. Alongside the album announcement, the band has released the first single and lyric video, “Reincarnation,” a ferocious statement of rebirth that sets the tone for the album’s uncompromising vision.

Born from a chance reunion between guitarist Chase Fraser (Continuum, ex‑Decrepit Birth, ex‑Animosity) and drummer Tommy McKinnon (Derelict, Akurion, ex‑Neuraxis, ex‑Augury), The Conflux Collective began as a spontaneous spark, one that quickly ignited into a creative explosion. Within their first hour of jamming, a full song had formed; within six weeks, their debut EP, “The Inception,” was complete. But the band’s evolution was far from linear.

After life circumstances forced the project into years of silence, McKinnon resurrected The Conflux Collective with a renewed sense of purpose. Armed with unreleased material from Fraser and a determination to finish what they started, he rebuilt the album from the ground up, writing new songs, reconstructing arrangements, recording all bass tracks by ear, and crafting lyrics drawn from deeply personal turmoil, transformation, and catharsis.

To bring the record fully to life, McKinnon assembled a powerhouse roster of extreme‑metal vocalists whose performances became the album’s emotional core: Jesse Brint (Gross Misconduct), Mallika Sundaramurthy (Emasculator, ex‑Abnormality), Jeffrey Mott (The Monster Factory, Growlers Choir, Hollow), Eric Burnet (Derelict, Samskaras), and Max Lusier (Derelict), who also contributes a blistering guitar solo.

The result is “In the Wake of Saturn,” a progressive, brutal, melodic, and deeply human exploration of loss, survival, and rebirth. Across eight tracks, the album bridges the raw ferocity of ’90s death metal with the precision and ambition of modern tech‑death, unfolding like a narrative guided by shifting voices and emotional intensity.

“In the Wake of Saturn is a journey through pain, fear, defeat, survival, and finally rebirth. It’s a transformative experience that was created out of the necessity for change… a true underground monster made for those who seek the unusual,” says Tommy McKinnon.

The album’s first single, “Reincarnation,” was originally written by Fraser during the project’s early years. The track embodies the album’s themes of resilience and renewal.

“The Conflux Collective lives again, and this song tells the story of rebirth and resilience… It gives an impression of how the album sounds as a whole, with all the elements explored in depth in the other songs,” adds McKinnon

Featuring a commanding vocal performance by Jeffrey Mott, “Reincarnation” delivers intricate drum work, uncompromising guitar lines, and the unmistakable intensity that defines The Conflux Collective’s sound.

Watch and listen to the lyric video for “Reincarnation” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nce0-kz3nTk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More info:

https://www.facebook.com/confluxcollective

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

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

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

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“Centered around guitarist Chase Fraser (Continuum, ex‑Decrepit Birth, ex‑Animosity) and drummer Tommy McKinnon (Derelict, Akurion, ex‑Neuraxis, ex‑Augury) and featuring guest appearance contributions from members of Gross Misconduct, Emasculator, Samskaras, Hollow and Monster Factory, the Conflux Collective is a true collective that puts ’90s lensed, technical death metal in its creative crosshairs.” – Decibel Magazine (2026 – Reincarnation (single premiere) – In The Wake of Saturn)

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

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

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

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

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

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0 Blackened Thrash ETERNAL DRAK Unleashes “We Force It To Speak” From Sixth Album “The Violence of Time” Out July 2026

May 15, 2026
by Asher
· Eternal Drak · Music News · Uncategorized

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 15, 2026

Blackened Thrash ETERNAL DRAK Unleashes “We Force It To Speak” From Sixth Album “The Violence of Time” Out July 2026

L-R – Andres Martinez Torres (Drakar) – Voices, Lead Guitar, Bass – Michel Amyot – Rhythm Guitar

Photo Credit – Patrick Auger

Eternal Drak, the long‑running extreme metal force originally from Latin America and now based in Quebec City, Canada, known for its evolving blend of black, thrash, and death metal, announces the arrival of its sixth full‑length album, “The Violence of Time,” a work that reframes time itself as the enemy of human meaning and will be released on out July 17th, 2026, on Canadian label FirstWave. Alongside the announcement, the band unveils the album’s first single, “We Force It To Speak.”

Born, as the band puts it, “in the middle of a drunk among friends,” Eternal Drak has spent years forging a sound defined by varied rhythm and catchy aggression, shaped by decades within the metal underground. With this new album, the band reaches its most cohesive and intense expression to date.

“The Violence of Time” is not a concept album in the traditional sense; it is a philosophical assault. Lyrically and musically, the record presents time as a hostile, eroding force that distorts memory, identity, and causality. The songs function as “violent theses,” each dismantling a human assumption about how time works.

The band explains:

“Time does not accompany human beings; it subdues them. It does not flow; it imposes. It does not advance; it erodes.”

Every track reflects fragments of a larger narrative inspired by a short story written for the album, an exploration of how attempts to understand time only warp it further.

Serving as the album’s opening strike, “We Force It To Speak” captures the essence of Eternal Drak’s new era. Rooted in black metal yet enriched with acoustic textures and dense atmospheric layering, the track establishes the album’s emotional and conceptual tone. Lyrically, it confronts the human obsession with explanation, how the act of observing or defining reality alters it beyond recognition. The band describes it as a reflection on “how the more we search for answers, the more certainty slips away.”

Eternal Drak’s evolution has been shaped by decades of experimentation, from analog distortion and classic pedals to modern digital textures. With “The Violence of Time,” the band believes it has finally crystallized its definitive sound: aggressive, cohesive, and uncompromising.

Influences such as Dimmu Borgir, Watain, Kreator, Motörhead, and Desaster echo throughout the record, yet the album stands firmly in its own identity, extreme metal sharpened by introspection and conceptual depth.

Listen to “We Force It To Speak” at the following links:

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

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nMt45oS5uxY

Album pre-order (out July 17th, 2026) – https://eternaldrak.bandcamp.com/

Track Listing:
1. We Force It To Speak – 5:15
2. The Unborn Paths Rot – 3:51
3. Me Hice Simultaneo – 3:30
4. The Blasphemy of Time – 3:35
5. Chaos Is the Law – 3:34
6. Where Cause Is Buried – 3:55
7. Across the Watching Veils – 3:53
8. Breathing Once Again – 3:45
9. The Cosmos Rejects You – 4:09
10. No Direction Total War – 2:57
Album Length: 38:24

Album Band Line Up:
Andres Martinez Torres (Drakar) – Voices, Lead Guitar, Bass
Michel Amyot – Rhythm Guitar

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

About:

Eternal Drak is an extreme metal band based in Quebec City, Canada, originally founded in Latin America in the late ’90s. Rooted in a fierce blend of thrash and black metal, the band has continually expanded its sound with elements of death metal, groove, and melodic experimentation. Lyrically, Eternal Drak explores human and cosmic darkness, a theme present across all seven of its official releases. The band is currently signed to the Canadian label FirstWave.

Formed in 1997 by brothers Drakar and Warhammer, later joined by guitarist Reijav, Eternal Drak quickly gained recognition, winning a City TV award for Best Metal Video in the early 2000s. After releasing early EPs and their first full-length, the band went on hiatus in 2007.

In 2020, the members reunited in Quebec to create The Past Is Gone, A New One Is Coming, honoring co‑founder and drummer Eduardo “Warhammer” Martínez. This revival led to a prolific new era, including the albums Drak Metal (2021), Shadow Storm (2022), Imprisoned Souls (2024), and multiple EPs. The lineup later expanded with guitarist Mike Amyot and drummer Patrick Auger.

Today, Eternal Drak (featuring Andres Martinez Torres (Drakar) – Voices, Lead Guitar, Bass, and Michel Amyot – Rhythm Guitar) continues to evolve while staying true to its extreme metal roots, driven by intensity, melody, and a commitment to pushing its sound across continents.

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“A fine collection from the masters of ancient evil” – Metal Noise (The Warrior Order – 2025)

“There’s evil intent at the start of next song “Eternal Drak” something I’d expect as it’s named after the band. Again, the trio are delving into themes of dark forces and mythical battles, but they have upped the intensity on this one as it sounds more powerful. It’s hard not to imagine a town or castle besieged by dragon’s fire and the hellish earth that awaits any survivors.” – The Razor’s Edge (The Warrior Order – 2025)

“another great sounding recording from Eternal Drak and if you are a fan of blackened thrash metal, you should check out this ep. RECOMMENDED TRACKS INCLUDE “Oda A La Luna” and “La Nueva Orden”. 8 out of 10.” – Bringer of Death Zine (The Warrior Order – 2025)

“„Eternal Drak“ is a small grab bag. Here they use different tempos that fit into the fast, rhythmic sound. With an extremely thrashy and vocally aggressive sound, you always have to be prepared for changing rhythms and moods. An extremely brutal melody blows with us „La nueva Order“ counter. At the end of the „EP“ they take a Metallica song from the album „Master of Puppets“ before. „Leper Messiah“ rewound in a radical version. Just as the album title says: they implement the warrior code musically.” – Hellfire Magazin (The Warrior Order – 2025)

“The Warrior Order is a real surprise and shows a completely new face of ETERNAL DRAK,” – PowerMetal.de (The Warrior Order – 2025)

““Oda A La Luna” sees a powerful drum at the beginning, before the rhythm settles in this dark ode. The lyrical theme is one of rebellion and ritual, and you can feel the intensity with each slap on the snare. The middle section has a sudden tempo change, with a riff that will get your head moving and the intensity follows through.” – The Razor’s Edge (The Warrior Order – 2025)

“This is a pretty good EP that’s got plenty of thrashy riffs, grooves and black metal harmonies and tremolos, give this a spin. ” – Drako’s Metal Reviews (The Warrior Order – 2025)

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0 LA Symphonic Metal LEVINIA Unleashes “Silver Tongues” Exploring Dark Grooves Against Modern Idols

May 15, 2026
by Asher
· Levinia · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 15, 2026

LA Symphonic Metal LEVINIA Unleashes “Silver Tongues” Exploring Dark Grooves Against Modern Idols

Produced by Brandon Friesen (Halestorm, Nickelback, The Hu, Papa Roach)

L-R – Dylan Suierveld – Drums, Alon Mei-Tal – Guitar, Kourt Henson – Vocals, Liam Alexander – Bass

Photo Credit – Dream of Mirrors Photography

Los Angeles symphonic‑metal hybrid Levinia has announced the release of their second single and music video of 2026, “Silver Tongues,” the next chapter in a four‑single rollout that marks the band’s most ambitious era yet. The track follows the success of their first 2026 release, “The Thorn.” It continues their collaboration with acclaimed producer Brandon Friesen, known for his work with Halestorm, Nickelback, The Hu, and Papa Roach.

“Silver Tongues” showcases a new facet of Levinia’s evolving identity, groovier, more rhythm‑driven, and deceptively restrained on the surface, while lyrically cutting deep. The band describes the track as a warning against the seductive pull of modern celebrity culture, where public figures are elevated to near‑religious status.

“We think fans are going to have a strong reaction to these upcoming releases because each song reveals a very different side of Levinia. “Silver Tongues” will likely catch listeners by surprise with its groovier, more rhythm-driven feel. It is a bit more restrained melodically on the surface, but the lyrical message is sharp and unsettling, which we think fans will connect with once they sit with the song. It’s about the danger of surrendering your identity to someone else’s narrative. It’s a rebellion against polished voices that promise certainty while quietly demanding conformity. Overall, we believe fans will appreciate not only the heaviness but the versatility. This is Levinia pushing into new territory while still maintaining the cinematic drama and emotional weight that listeners know us for,” says vocalist Kourt Henson.

The single’s artwork reflects this theme with a commanding, mysterious figure pressing a finger to her lips, an homage to a striking behind‑the‑scenes photograph of Henson that inspired the visual direction.

Levenia was formed in 2017 by drummer Dylan Suierveld and guitarist John Pinon Martinez, and has steadily transformed from a symphonic‑leaning project into a dark, modern, hybrid metal force. With the addition of lead guitarist Alon Mei‑Tal in 2020 and new bassist Liam Buckley in 2026, the band has sharpened its sound into something heavier, more deliberate, and more emotionally immersive.

Their 2026 singles represent the most refined version of Levinia that is aggressive, thought‑provoking, cinematic, melodic, and emotionally charged. Teaming up with producer Brandon Friesen has played a pivotal role in shaping the band’s new chapter, helping them refine a pool of developing tracks into the four‑song arc planned for release throughout the year.

“Silver Tongues” is only the second step in a four‑part journey. Each planned single to be released will reveal a different side of Levinia’s identity, pushing them into new creative territory while preserving the cinematic drama and emotional weight fans have come to expect.

Levinia’s writing process has grown increasingly collaborative, with Alon and Kourt shaping the melodic and lyrical core before the rest of the band builds the dynamic foundation around it. This approach has led to music that feels more cohesive, more vocal‑driven, and more emotionally impactful.

Kourt’s lyrics draw heavily from personal experience, classical literature, and folklore, blending confession with gothic storytelling. The new singles embrace darker romanticism, haunting imagery, and a more mature narrative voice, marking a significant evolution from their earlier work.

Recommended for fans of Within Temptation, Amaranthe, Nightwish, Lacuna Coil, and Delain, listen to “Silver Tongues” at the following links:

Music Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vqhk6j6wzKs

Spotify – https://hypeddit.com/levinia/silvertongues

First Single – Music Video – The Thorn – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30EmGiQL7ug

Levinia:
Vocals – Kourt Henson
Guitar – Alon Mei-Tal
Bass – Liam Buckley
Drums- Dylan Suierveld

More info:

https://www.leviniaofficial.com/

https://instagram.com/leviniaofficial

https://www.facebook.com/LeviniaOfficial/

About: Levinia blends symphonic atmosphere, modern metal aggression, and cinematic storytelling into a sound influenced by Epica, Lacuna Coil, Sabaton, Disturbed, and Evanescence. Formed from the ashes of Los Angeles power‑metal band Aerius, the group has spent nearly a decade refining its identity into something bold, emotional, and unmistakably its own.

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“The mixing was just absolutely incredible for the guitars. I really like that.” (referring to the complex rhythm). This was, I mean, I was super impressed. Really impressed. I love the chorus. That’s what we really love. (about catchy choruses). I love that. It was so good (about the operatic vocals), super super cool. What a good job. I’m happy that she’s back with her band. They all look like they were having a great time. That was super cool. (about the live setting) I love it. Yeah. Yeah. I love it.” (about headbanging). This was perfect. Right up my alley.” “It was very good. Very high rating. This was really cool, and I’m very happy we did this one.”- YouTube Reaction Video – The Rockin’ Roundtable (2026 – The Thorn (single)

“Overall, Liberation is a thoroughly impressive EP that should find appeal with both the modern metal and symphonic crowds, especially those craving a little extra heaviness in their material. Levinia are onto something great here, best to catch them here at the ground level and watch them explode to the next level in the near future.” – Dead Rhetoric (2018 – Liberation)

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