Category: Music News

0 Prog Guitarist Manuel Barbará Ties Together Powerful Vocal And Instrumentals In “Whisper In A Storm” Off Blade Runner-Themed Metal EP Out Now!

November 2, 2024
by Asher
· Manuel Barbara · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – November 2, 2024

Prog Guitarist Manuel Barbará Ties Together Powerful Vocal And Instrumentals In “Whisper In A Storm”

Blade Runner-themed metal EP Out Now!

Manuel Barbará, an acclaimed metal guitarist and composer, is pleased to announce the release of his new video for the single “Whisper in a Storm”. The track, featuring Thalia Tymowski of Among the Stars and guitarist Millisa Henderson, is the title track from Barbará’s latest EP, released on September 13, 2024. He comments on the collaboration:

“I’ve wanted to have Thalia Tymowski sing a song of mine ever since I met her in 2020. I’m super happy to be able to feature her on something as cool as this. It was very satisfying to pour my fascination with Cyberpunk into a song with Thalia’s help and Millisa’s guest solo at the end made me nervous to record mine.”

Barbará continues to explain that “Whisper in a Storm” is the most “traditional” of the four songs with a typical verse-chorus structure. It still features odd expanding and contracting rhythms and huge stacks of guitars with Tymowski’s powerful voice tying the whole thing together. The final bridge gives way to two melodic guitar solos and a final, crushing riff.

Inspired by the Cyberpunk genre and specifically the film “Blade Runner”, the single showcases Barbará‘s ability to weave complex narratives through instrumental music. His fascination with Cyberpunk as a genre grew out of a few authors in the 80s reinventing the noir genre to talk about the political, social, economic, and scientific shifts that were happening at the time.

The collaboration with Tymowski on vocals adds a new dimension to Barbará‘s typically instrumental approach and is recommended for fans of Keith Merrow, Monuments, and Meshuggah.

Watch and listen to the music video for “Whisper in a Storm” via its premiere on V13 HERE.

Released on September 13, 2024, “Whisper in a Storm” is available at https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/manuelbarbar/whisper-in-a-storm

Track Listing:
1. Dead Hand (feat. Jody Miller) – 5:43
2. A Different Horizon (feat. Jake Howsam Lowe) – 5:49
3. Aphelion (feat. Michael Nystrom Bala) – 4:13
4. Whisper in a Storm (feat. Thalia Tymowski & Millisa Henderson) – 4:51
5. Whisper in a Storm (instrumental) – 4:51
EP Length: 24:42

More info: Manuelbarbara.com | Facebook.com/8stringalchemy | Instagram.com/8stringalchemy | Tiktok.com/@8stringalchemy

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“the song (A Different Horizon (feat. Jake Howsam Lowe (Plini)) blends metal heaviness and classical music concepts to create something intricate, unique, and highly technical.” – Decibel Magazine

“Berklee trained and steeped in metal music, composing, and shredding, the EP (Whisper in the Storm) is going to unite die-hard metal fans and guitar geeks alike. The first single off this EP is “Dead Hand,” which features Jody Miller, a renowned violinist in the video game music scene.” – Ghost Cult Magazine

“If a sophisticated and often elegant variety of mainly instrumental progressive metal is a subject matter of particular interest, and you are fond of such creations exploring the entire span from gentle and melodic all the way towards the extreme, then you will find this EP quite the rewarding experience I’d imagine.” – Progressor

“When I came across New Jersey based guitarist and composer Manuel Barbará and his solo debut album “Moonrise” in 2021, I saw myself blown away by his modern instrumental style, combining mighty heaviness with dreamful electronic sounds. Finding inspiration in a wide range of classical, neoclassical as well as contemporary artists and bands, his new EP, “Whisper in a Storm”, lines up here as well, offering epic shredding within a spacey atmosphere fitting to the Blade Runner theme. While the playing is highly sophisticated and not an easy listen due to its dissonance and complexity, there’s still this djenty grooviness that keeps me vibing with it. Recommended ffo modern Progmetal in the veins of Tesseract, Periphery and Meshuggah.” – The ProgSpace

“It is no surprise that a composer and big-time guitar player as Manuel Barbará took care of everything on “Whisper in a Storm”: all songs were written and (almost) performed only by Manuel Barbará, and produced and promoted all by himself. The result of Barbará’s musical expertise resonates throughout all the sequences of this musical journey on “Whisper in a Storm”, full of guitar solos and complex string instrument arrangements and impressive drum tempo and captivating Djent riffs. But the cleverness of “Whisper in a Storm” is on the other side of the coin. Even though “Whisper in a Storm” is grounded by lavishing on melodies which are composed in the high level of mastery of Barbará, the fact is that “Whispers in Storm” brings to us five palatable songs. I guess that Manuel Barbará’s main goal was not only to mesmerize guitar-students-amazed-by-complex-solos-lovers on “Whisper in a Storm”, but also to relate with people who love just to listen to good songs. The Progressive harmonies on “Whisper in a Storm” seem to stroll by guitar riffs, with synchronized tempo that resembles experimental Metal bands like Tesseract and Devin Townsend, and shredders players as Yngwie Malmsteen and Steve Vai. 10/10” – Ever-Metal

“Prog metal, with a pinch of metal/deathcore musically” – Moshpit Radio 89.9FM WORT (Madison, WI)

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0 Quebec’s TROLLWAR Presents New Single “The Offering” From New EP “Tales from the Frozen Wastes” ft. Guests From Kalmah, Atavistia Out Nov 2024

November 1, 2024
by Asher
· Music News · Trollwar

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – November 1, 2024

Quebec’s TROLLWAR Presents New Single “The Offering”

New EP “Tales from the Frozen Wastes” – A Journey Into Darkness – Out Nov 2024

EP Guests Veli-Matti Kananen (Kalmah), Mattias Sippola (Atavistia)

Quebec, Canada’s melodic symphonic metal outfit Trollwar continues to build anticipation for their upcoming EP with the release of “The Offering”, the second single from their forthcoming EP “Tales from the Frozen Wastes”. The single further showcases Trollwar‘s musical evolution, presenting a harmonious blend of aggressive metal riffs, intricate symphonic arrangements, and progressive elements. The song delves deeper into the EP’s overarching theme of a falling pantheon and the glooming curse that befalls adventurers who dare to tread where they’re unwelcome. The band shares their thoughts:

“This is the most recent song composition-wise. We think that this one is the best representation of where the Trollwar sound has evolved. It contains some great Melodic Death Metal riffs, a good chorus, epic symphonies.. the whole package. This is also the 2nd song where we have a guest coming in to push the limit of the song with astonishing power metal vocals and choirs.”

They go on to explain that the black-metal elements are also brought forward, with an epic evil bridge that will give chills to the symphonic black metal enjoyers. The transitions are smooth and flow easily.

This is the last song off the album, leaving the listener with an enjoyable symphonic epilogue, and giving hints of something greater to come. It is a pivotal piece in the narrative of the EP, representing the moment where the veil between worlds thins, and the consequences of mortal ambition clash with divine will. It is recommended for those who enjoy Amon Amarth, Kalmah, and Equilibrium.

Listen to “The Offering” via its premiere on Bravewords HERE.

Due out on November 15th, “Tales from the Frozen Wastes” is available for digital pre-save – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/trollwar/tales-from-the-frozen-wastes

EP Teaser – https://youtu.be/-k5SH3biGjk

First Single – “Bane of the Underworld” – https://youtu.be/TGKXUH9F-3Q

Single Digital – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/trollwar/bane-of-the-underworld

Track Listing:
1. Prologue (2:00)
2. The Unseen One (7:05) ft. Keyboard Solo by Veli-Matti Kananen (Kalmah)
3. Bane of the Underworld (5:26)
4. In The Fields of Frost (4:05)
5. The Offering (5:46) ft. Clean Vocal / Choir by Mattias Sippola (Atavistia)
EP Length: 24:24

More info:

Trollwar.wixsite.com/trollwar | Facebook.com/Trollwar | x.com/trollwarqc | Instagram.com/trollwarmetal/

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Top 20 2018 Metal album from Quebec by Metal Universe (Oath of the Storm LP – 2018)

“The whole record is an adventure; the sequencing flows well from song to song and is bumpered nicely by an intro that sets the mood, plus an outro that gently brings things to a close, returning the listener safely back to their respective realities. At the end of the day, I definitely think Trollwar is onto something here; they are proudly waving the folk-metal banner and are destined for big things.” – PureGrainAudio (Oath of the Storm LP – 2018)

”The vocals are abrasively savage, and the swirling keyboard melody is like ear heroin. I can’t help myself — the song pushes too many buttons for me to resist.” – No Clean Singing (Oath of the Storm LP – 2018)

“OATH OF THE STORM has a wave of well-written catchy songs, good production, lots of intensity and power as well, which is something some of the other bands lack. TrollWar is a pretty appropriate name for this enjoyable act and OATH OF THE STORM is one of the more intense Folk Metal albums out this year.” – Metal Rules (Oath of the Storm LP – 2018)

“Overall, this was an outstanding album, for a band that clearly has a lot to offer. What I can’t figure out is why no one has signed them yet? The production is excellent. They have a sophistication and complexity in their sound that few others do, yet each track is very easy to listen to. It’s like you combined the best of the old, IRON MAIDEN, with the best of the new, WINTERSUN, and you have TROLLWAR, with their own unique flair. The melodies are both playful and dangerous, and the entire album is excellent from the opener through the closer. “Oath of the Storm” is a fascinating glimpse into the soul of the band, where they let it all out there for you to enjoy. And enjoy it I did!” – 9/10 – Metal Temple (Oath of the Storm LP – 2018)

”the tracks are face smashing and memorable with enough layers to satisfy even the most tech savvy of you folksters”…….”It’s hard to necessarily give you specifics other than multiple layers of instrumentation, blast beats, keys and symphonic touches with shredding guitar and vocals.”- Folk Metal.NL (Oath of the Storm LP – 2018)

“TROLLWAR deliver “Oath of the Storm”, a strong second work that should not only be interesting for fans of FINNTROLL and ENSIFERUM… The Canadians’ independent, accordion-driven folk black metal proves that real fighting roles don’t just inhabit Scandinavia and the surrounding area. Then a resounding “kippis!” or an elegant “à votre santé!”. 4/5″ – Stormbringer

“Uncompromising and lovable – Oath Of The Storm… Conclusion: “Oath Of The Storm” is an interesting folk metal album and for fans of EQUILIBRIUM or FINNTROLL. TROLLWAR is characterized by good song progression and incredible joy in playing… So if you’re still looking for a Christmas present, you can grab it here without hesitation.” – Metal.de

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0 Heavy Southern Stoner Devil Metal HELLFIRE 76 Shares Music Video “The Omen” Off New Album “Rags to Rage” Out End of Nov 2024

November 1, 2024
by Asher
· Hellfire 76 · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – November 1, 2024

Heavy Southern Stoner Devil Metal HELLFIRE 76 Shares Music Video “The Omen” Off New Album “Rags to Rage” Out End of Nov 2024

Taboo lyrics served over blues-infected grooves! This is the unique blend of sounds that HELLFIRE 76 brings to the table. With influences ranging from ZZ Top, Killing Joke, and Kyuss to the Melvins, HELLFIRE 76 delivers a sound sure to satisfy doom, stoner, and psych rock fans alike!

Formed by founding members Von Bury (formerly of the Southern Gothic act LOVESUCKER and the Occult Rock act and Napalm Recording artist BLOODY HAMMERS) and Mike McGuiness (formerly of the Industrial Metal act FACE THE WORLD), HELLFIRE 76 set out to create a brand of Heavy Southern Stoner Devil Metal that has been missing for quite some time.

All killer-no filler, this two-piece brings 110% to their first full-length “Rags To Rage” due out at the end of November 2024. The overall theme of this album is dark, taboo, spooky, tongue-in-cheek, fuzzed-out southern metal. Von Bury explains further:

“The album RAGS TO RAGE is a continuation of our first release, in that the subject matter is all thought-provoking. As for a lot of music, we want the lyrics to be literal but also open to the listener’s interpretation. Sticking with the theme and ideas of Voodoo, Witchcraft, The Occult, and other oddities. We want to take the listeners on a dark and ominous journey into a place they don’t normally think about.”

To give the first glimpse into the album, HELLFIRE 76 is sharing their new music video for the first single “The Omen”.

“We wanted to have a song on the album (last track specifically) that we wouldn’t really play live as there are Organ sounds and whatnot that we can’t replicate live. I wanted a closer on the record in the vein of No Quarter, something that has a completely different vibe from the rest of the album,” adds Von Bury.

Watch and listen to the video for “The Omen” via its premiere on DoomedandStoned HERE.

For fans of Melvins, Clutch, Killing Joke, and Fu Manchu, “Rags To Rage” is due out on November 29, 2024.

Album pre-order – https://hellfire76.bandcamp.com/

Track Listing:
1. Rags to Rage – 3:33
2. Steal Your Soul – 3:25
3. 1000 Crimes – 3:38
4. As Above – 3:44
5. The Keepers – 3:40
6. Magic and Religion – 3:23
7. Black Angel – 3:43
8. The Omen – 5:45
Album Length: 30:52

More info: Hellfire76.com | Facebook.com/Hellfire76nc | Instagram.com/hellfire76nc

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“Drink the concoction prepared by the band, a cocktail of blood riffs, genuine rhythms and distorted vocals that you can find in the dirtiest pubs in New Orleans! Fans of Kyuss, ZZ Top, Killing Joke, The Melvins and Clutch will be thrilled!” – Heavy Mag

“In the radius of bituminous rhythms, nevertheless animated by a Rock energy, we frankly opt more for cousinage with CLUTCH, a formation that has always been able to evolve between thickness, melody and conciseness. With, as a bonus, these hints of greasy and oily Blues which inject a kind of groove and sap within a Metal which should not silence or ignore its affinities with the severe and groovy Metal proper to Pantera.” – Integral Metal

“Hellfire 76 comes at you hard and heavy and without mercy.” – Doomed Nation

“Hellfire 76, A duo devoted to rampaging Stoner-Doom-Psych-Metal, which swings to dense blues licks that suggest a Triceratops mating with a Sherman Tank!” – Q C Nerve

The Hellfire 76 use the masks of voodoo, witchcraft, the occult and tarot cards to tell us stories of how Evil has taken over our world, ruled by liars, impostors and careerists. People are flooded with a river of lies, perpetrated by governments and the Church, which obscure our view of the Truth.” – Progressive Rock Journal
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0 Rockshots Records – NEKOMATA New Video “Zero” Off Upcoming Album “EUPHORIA” Out January 2025

November 1, 2024
by Asher
· Music News · NEKOMATA (Rockshots Records)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – November 1, 2024

NEKOMATA New Video “Zero” Off Upcoming Album “EUPHORIA” Out January 2025

Following the successful release of their first single, “In My Flesh”, Nekomata continues to build anticipation for their second album “EUPHORIA” with their new single, “Zero”. Known for their signature “Power Core” style – a high-energy blend of Power Metal, Metalcore, and Death Metal – the band returns with an even more aggressive and refined sound.

After making a powerful impact with their debut album “…And Then, The Abusement Park Left Town” (2022) and its standout singles “Call to Arms” and “Algorithmically Imperfect,” Nekomata is pushing their sonic boundaries even further. “Zero” showcases their evolution: combining razor-sharp riffs, intricate melodies, and vocals that range from soaring harmonies to guttural growls. Enhanced by dramatic cinematic elements, the track delivers a complex yet accessible experience.

The band, featuring Filippo Zavattari (bass and backing vocals), Andrea Cappellari (guitar and programming), Andrea Olivieri (vocals), and Alberto Mezzanotte (drums), has established itself as a standout act in the Italian metal scene. Their sound appeals to fans of bands like Architects, Veil of Maya, and Periphery bringing power, precision, and a unique identity to every track.

“Zero” promises to be a relentless and memorable listening experience, packed with fierce breakdowns, powerful hooks, and a lyrical exploration that digs deeper into the concept of “EUPHORIA”. The accompanying music video captures the intensity of the song and adds a visual narrative to its thematic depth.

“Zero explores the inner conflict of someone trapped in an unending cycle of self-doubt and the pursuit of unattainable perfection. Every achievement feels overshadowed by ever-larger challenges, fueling a persistent sense of inadequacy. Despite the progress made, the protagonist struggles to recognize his own victories, feeling trapped in a mindset that makes him his own worst enemy. This relentless fight against the impossible leads to continuous effort with no apparent end, leaving a profound sense of emptiness, as if everything inevitably circles back to zero. Instrumentally speaking, Zero is the djentiest of the songs, with a modern groovy approach.” adds the band.

Watch and listen to the music video for “Zero” at https://youtu.be/-y6vG-eq71Y

Digital – https://lnk.to/QHFQmb

With this release, Nekomata continues its reputation as a leading force in modern metal. Keep an eye out for more news about “EUPHORIA” and the band’s upcoming activities, including their anticipated Japanese tour dates this November (November 4th / 5th, 2024), where they will premiere new tracks from the album to their growing international audience.

Nekomata second album “EUPHORIA” will be available on all platforms on January 24, 2025, from Rockshots Records.

CD pre-order – https://shop.rockshots.eu/en/home/6962-nekomata-euphoria.html

Previous Single:

Music Video – “In My Flesh” – https://youtu.be/KQcwB8WeHoM

Track Listing:
1. Py
2. Shattered
3. Automata
4. In My Flesh
5. Feedback
6. Zero
7. De Priapi Dilemma
8. Road To Ruin
9. Super Omnia
10. Ataraxia – Still Abused

Nekomata is:
Andrea Olivieri: Vocals
Andrea Cappellari: Guitars and programming
Filippo Zavattari: Bass guitar and backing vocals
Alberto Mezzanotte: Drums

For more info:

https://www.rockshots.eu
https://www.theprojectneko.com/
https://www.facebook.com/theprojectneko/
https://www.instagram.com/theprojectneko/

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0 Yellowknife’s GNARWHAL’s New Video “War / Nothing More” Speaks of Survival From Their Hometown Wildfires; New EP “Altered States” Out Now!

October 31, 2024
by Asher
· Gnarwhal · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 31, 2024

Yellowknife’s GNARWHAL’s New Video “War / Nothing More” Speaks of Survival From Their Hometown Wildfires

New EP “Altered States” Out Now!

From the far reaches of the Canadian North in the Northwest Territories, Yellowknife’s award-winning (Best New Single at the 2022 Music NWT Awards) Gnarwhal unleashed their doomy stoner sludge rock sound to the masses with their latest EP “Altered States” this past May.

Today, the quartet presents its new music video for the track “The War/Nothing More”. The video depicts the real-life chaos of wildfires and evacuations that the band experienced first-hand last year in Yellowknife creating this unsettling strangeness in real time.

“It was a messy, scary, disturbing, wild, incomprehensible, maddening, dangerous, and disorienting experience for an entire territory. We wanted to represent a fever dream version of our new reality as an act of personal catharsis that speaks to our reality that wildfires act as nature’s regenerative agent and bring forth rebirth. Sometimes, only through brutality and pain does life start new,” says the band.

For the music video, Gnarwhal teamed with their friends from Yellowknife’s amazing Artless Collective studio.

“They were totally into undertaking this creative journey with us. The Creative Vision is a fever-dream assault on the senses, The War Nothing More tells the surreal experience of the band in the sudden throes of fighting for their northern home, burning to the ground by wildfire. Close to Yellowknife reality in 2023 but based in a strange alternate “Yellowknife”, this world is full of smoke, black charred forests, and strange illusions. Apocalyptic, surreal, and vibrating with strange energy. After spitting out of the belly of a narwhal, the men are in possession of the last 4 ‘seeds’ available to mankind (not revealed til the end) and they must travel towards their demise across the desiccated landscape, surviving a dangerous and surreal journey to ‘plant’ the last ‘seeds’ in a specific location. There they will pay the ultimate sacrifice to initiate the regrowth of their charred world in a hot and searing fever dream. Paying loose homage to the surreal style of Alejandro Jodorwosky films like Holy Mountain and El Topo, and utilizing new AI technology to raise the visual bar, mixing live action on a 360 8K camera that allows for maximum shooting ease, this is a visual journey that is to be felt/understood more on an emotional/subconscious level.” adds the band.

Watch the music video for “The War / Nothing More” via its premiere on MetalInsider HERE.

The band’s sophomore record, “Altered States” represents a significant evolution in Gnarwhal‘s musical journey, offering a darker and heavier atmosphere compared to their debut release. From the haunting melodies of “Tides” to the introspective depth of “From Her Hands”, each track on the EP contributes to a cohesive and immersive listening experience.

The creation of the EP was not without its challenges, as the band navigated the uncertainties of the pandemic and unforeseen obstacles during the recording process. Despite these hurdles, Gnarwhal remained steadfast in its commitment to delivering a powerful and authentic musical statement. “Altered States” was produced and mixed by Dan Ponich, mastered by David Collins, and the album artwork was done by Jonah Cutler.

“We hope our progression as a band and as songwriters appeals to our fans and listeners. The Altered States EP is a bit darker and maybe heavier than our first one. Conceptually and thematically, the songs on the EP fit together better as a package and we hope this is conducive to a front-to-back experience for listeners.” says guitarist Benji Srtaker.

Recommended for fans of Kyuss, Mastodon, Truckfighters, and Elder, “Altered States” was released on May 24, 2024, and is available at https://gnarwhalband.bandcamp.com

and Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3YHlaro

Previous singles:

Lyric Video – “Altered States” – https://youtu.be/yLtXbxLuFrY

Lyric Video – “Tides” – https://youtu.be/ix726UB1FKU

Track Listing:
1. Tides (3:37)
2. The War / Nothing More (6:36)
3. From Her Hands (3:46)
4. Altered States (3:19)

More info: Gnarwhalband.com | Facebook.com/gnarmusic | Instagram.com/gnarwhalsounds

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“Gnarwhal moves along at its own Fuzzed Out Stoner pace with its style of Hard Rock and slightly Doom tinged grooves. Taking cues from bands such as Mastodon, The Sword, Elder and King Buffalo, these guys walk a fine line between Classic and Modern day Stoner sensibilities especially with the Proggy Spaced out vibes. There’s a HEAVY METAL beast waiting to escape from the cleaner grooves that Gnarwhal plays and when it does escape from its cage, Gnarwhal becomes a more exciting creative unit.” – Outlaws of the Sun

““Tides,” a brutal, stormy track that meshes fuzzy, downtuned vibes with unrelenting proggy rhythms. Forlorn vocals that seem to prophesy the inevitable collapse of civilization, as illustrated by the single art.” – Doomed And Stoned

“Altered States follows Canadian four-piece Gnarwhal‘s 2023 self-titled debut full-length with four songs that effectively bring together atmosphere and impact in the six-minute “The War Nothing More” — big build in the second half leading to more immediate, on-beat finish serving as a ready instance of same — with twists that feel derived of the MastoBaroness school rhythmically and up-front vocal melodies that give cohesion to the darker vibe of “From Her Hands” after displaying a grungier blowout in “Tides.” The terrain through which they ebb and flow, amass and release tension, soar and crash, etc., is familiar if somewhat intangible, and that becomes an asset as the concluding “Altered States” channels the energy coursing through its verses in the first half into the airy payoff solo that ends.” – The Obelisk

“With their innovative sound and thought-provoking lyricism, Gnarwhal continues to push the boundaries of heavy music and establish themselves as a formidable force in the Canadian rock landscape and Altered States is a testament to Gnarwhal‘s ability to seamlessly blend diverse influences into a cohesive sonic tapestry.” – Amplify The Noise

“To Canada, Yellowknife to be precise, and the fuzzed-up, whacked-out goodness of Gnarwhal. The band has not long since released a nice little EP, Altered States, that simply oozes class. At times they inject a bit of space rock quirkiness – that should probably be quarkiness, given that first track Tides carries more than a whiff of Hawkwind about it – but for the most part this is wholesome, fuzzy doom of the highest order.” – Sentinel Daily

“rich in beautiful qualities in a vein that is both granite and catchy, these four titles confirm that Gnarwhal a group to follow closely. ” – Music Waves

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0 RED CAIN Unleashes Reimagined Goth Rock Banger “Demons II” For Halloween!

October 31, 2024
by Asher
· Music News · Red Cain

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 31, 2024

RED CAIN Unleashes Reimagined Goth Rock Banger “Demons II” For Halloween!

L-R: Taylor Gibson (Drums), Oman Costa (Guitar), Samuel Ridout (Guitar), Evgeniy Zayarny (Vocals)

Photo Credit Zak Kelly

Power prog storytellers RED CAIN have unleashed a reimagined goth rock version of their track “Demons” from their 2020 album “Kindred: Act II”. The track has been djentified, revocalized, injected with bigger drums, and metalized!

Vocalist Evgeniy Zayarny elaborates on “Demons II”:

“Stand with your demons and own them. A lethal and heavy encounter with your demons awaits you in the succinctly titled “Demons II’ – Red Cain’s reimagining of their 2021 goth rock hit. With all-new, heavier, djentier guitars, revised drums, and vocal performance to die for, this is a quintessential Halloween headbanger.

We are all defined by our battles with our demons – each of us fighting our own private war every day to remain ourselves and wrest control of this sense of self from the things that afflict us, drag us down, attempt to change us, and bring us into discomfort and malcontent.

This lurid tale of a deadly dance with your demons captures that struggle, yet ultimately carries a message of acceptance and control of one’s own flaws and imperfections, and an elevation of these into pure strength.”

Watch the music video for “Demons II” at https://youtu.be/7VViLOrFfQ8

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3NMW83L

Earlier this year, Red Cain also shared “Firestarter”, the first single of 2024 that is loosely based on the lore of the action role-playing game “Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree”. The band spent a lot of their time this year playing this fantastic release. Elden Ring is not only a brilliant game and a visual masterpiece, but also a storytelling phenomenon that deliberately has lore gaps to let fans and players create their own stories and interpretations of the lore. This strongly resonates with Red Cain‘s approach as musicians, as they always write music for their fans to read in unique ways and weave into their mythology.

“Firestarter” is also a new statement for Red Cain, as they continue to embrace a modern sound and reinvent their songwriting. You will hear a lot more groove and synth backing on this one, along with the same anthemic hooks, technical riffs, and vocal layering they are known for.

Listen to “Firestarter” at the following links:

Lyric Video – https://youtu.be/aKnOVyjRT6o

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/4e4bFap

Red Cain, from Calgary, Canada is a modern progressive metal project with Eastern European roots. They have been making waves since their first release in 2016, with award-winning music videos and concept albums “Kindred: Act I”, “Kindred: Act II” and “NÄE’BLISS”. The albums contained a ton of genre inspirations, from gothic rock to ambient electronica, power, black, and death metal, and were universally lauded for their inventiveness, variety, and strong conceptual content. They continue this momentum with forthcoming releases.

Red Cain is:
Evgeniy Zayarny – Vocals
Samuel Ridout – Guitar
Oman Costa – Guitar
Taylor Gibson – Drums

For more info: Redcain.ca | Facebook.com/redcainofficial | Instagram.com/redcainarmy

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“NAE’ BLISS is a fine example of world-class Metal. With every album they grow in statue and status they can stand shoulder to shoulder with the titans of the genre.” – Metal-Rules (2023 – NÄE’BLISS)

“Red Cain continue their evolutionary path with NÄ̈E’BLISS, taking us all on a fantastic and metallic journey that will surely help them carve their name even deeper into the metal scene worldwide.” – The Headbanging Moose (2023 – NÄE’BLISS)

“they come up with elements of melodeath, symphonic-, prog- and powermetal, melted together by the expressive vocal performance of singer Evgeniy Zayarny, who convinces with his full tone and an impressive range… “Näe’bliss” is well written, varied and dynamic, telling the stories about a common “good” against an “evil” antagonist in a great way.” – The Prog Space (2023 – NÄE’BLISS)

“What a masterpiece! In my last review, I gave my first 10/10 and called it my album of the year. That place has already been overtaken.” – Musipedia of Metal (2023 – NÄE’BLISS)

“Canadians Red Cain took on the mammoth task of turning Robert Jordan’s works of the Wheel of Time series into an album… Needless to say the Power Prog band delivers an ambitious album filled with twists and turns that will keep you on your toes!” – Belgian Jasper (2023 – NÄE’BLISS)

“Red Cain has made by far the best Wheel Of Time-related piece of art that I’ve seen or heard since before November 18, 2021. Sour grapes aside, this is some energetic power metal worthy of the source material.” – Metal Utopia (2023 – NÄE’BLISS)

“Red Cain combine with clean singing and growling vocals on opener “Fisher King.” Much of Nae Bliss has a fresh modern sound (“Blight” and the gothic “The Great Hunt”) and some modern groove (“Sightblinder”)… The modern metal here reminds me of Iced Earth and Nevermore which has some excellent clean vocals. ” – Transcending the Mundane (2023 – NÄE’BLISS)

“this is an album to explore if you tend to enjoy a more theatrical and bombastic variety of progressive metal.” – Progressor (2023 – NÄE’BLISS)

“If you’re into the symphonic side of metal, then this is a must have album.” – Smorg Magazine (2023 – NÄE’BLISS)

“As such Red Cain uses Näe’bliss to showcase the slickest noodling and power grooving of their career… Red Cain hasn’t yet made an album for the ages in this modern expression of classic prog/power exuberance, but each record thus far has swung for the fences and landed in good graces—stop sitting around and spin some Red Cain!” – Angry Metal Guy (2023 – NÄE’BLISS)

“you’ll still feel the mighty pull of Power Metal all over the record. But the progressive parts now start to encroach on soundscapes bands like Haken or Caligula’s Horse3) usually usurp. And that leaves us with an uncannily savvy power prog mix with an unholy urge for unusual extreme metal undercurrents on full display. And that led – yet again – to overheated turntables over at the RMR office tower. Red Cain are back and in full swing yet again, feisty as ever. And as well they should be. So, where’s that bookshop? Robert Jordan’s fantasy lore’s beckoning us.” – Rock Music Raider (2023 – NÄE’BLISS)

“With Näe’bliss, Red Cain has created their own progressive metal epic fantasy that is fuelled with blast beats, howling guitars, wailing vocals, and rumbling bass. The intricate lyrics tell their own tales and have captured the essence of the adversaries and nemesis of the story. Perhaps for me, storyline aside, is the wonderful vocal dynamic between Evgeniy Zayarny and Kalie Yan and how they play off each other in a beautiful tit for tat of clean versus harsh and singing versus operatic as if they were the protagonist and antagonist. Let the chaos reign supreme, crank Näe’bliss to 11.” – Amplify The Noise (2023 – NÄE’BLISS)

““Fisher King,” is a monstrous opening, a song that tempts the deliverance and brings the power of brilliance and chaos of the whirlwind…. “Fires of Heaven,” is bombastic, powerful, enchanting and downright haunting. A song that smashes through everything.” – The Median Man (2023 – NÄE’BLISS)
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0 Rockshots Records – DYING AWKWARD ANGEL Shake Up The Pit w/ New Single “The Magical World of the Dead”

October 31, 2024
by Asher
· Dying Awkward Angel · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 31, 2024

DYING AWKWARD ANGEL Shake Up The Pit w/ New Single “The Magical World of the Dead”

Dying Awkward Angel is back to shake up the metal scene with their latest single, “The Magical World of the Dead”!

This intense and dark track dives into the boundary between life and death, taking listeners on a sonic journey filled with haunting melodies and powerful riffs—a true homage to Swedish melodic death metal! Featuring a dramatic dialogue between a man and Death, Dying Awkward Angel creates a dark, contemplative atmosphere that captures the beauty and tension of humanity’s inevitable fate.

LISTEN NOW on all digital platforms – https://lnk.to/SBtKsD

Youtube – https://youtu.be/IQKnB3ZoQb0

More info: https://www.rockshots.eu | http://www.dyingawkwardangel.com

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0 Rockshots Records – VICTORIA K Pays Tribute To Origins w/ “Humanity XXIV”

October 31, 2024
by Asher
· Music News · Victoria K

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 31, 2024

VICTORIA K Pays Tribute To Origins w/ “Humanity XXIV”

Rockshots Records is proud to announce the release of “Humanity XXIV” by Victoria K, which is now streaming on all digital platforms!

Single – https://victoriak.lnk.to/HumanityXXIV

Youtube – https://youtu.be/dqGL_6lMMUE

This re-recorded fan-favorite track from their debut album “Essentia” captures a refreshed intensity, featuring new vocals from Victoria Knight herself – a powerful leap from the original recording.

This release is part of Victoria K’s journey of both reflection and evolution, looking forward to a third album in 2025. Known for pushing the boundaries of their sound, Victoria K’s last album, “Kore”, embraced a conceptual approach inspired by Greek mythology. But with “Humanity XXIV” (and the upcoming “Lacuna XXIV”), Victoria K pays tribute to their origins, infusing these tracks with matured skill and spirit.

These tracks are only the beginning, marking a new era in Victoria K’s Gothic Metal legacy, and follow the band’s recent chart-topping success with their “Frozen” cover, which reached the top 10 on Metal Contraband charts. As the anticipation builds for the 2025 album, “Humanity XXIV” serves as a powerful reminder of their journey from a rising name in the Melbourne metal scene to a band opening for legends like Eluveitie, Blind Guardian, and Katatonia.

More info:
Rockshots.eu
Victoriakmusicofficial.com

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“I have always loved a good concept album being a Prog head at heart and there are lots of progressive metal records floating around the constant stream of modern metal. But for me, none so well produced, performed and as inspired as this one. If you’re looking to dip your toes into the waters of concept albums this is most defiantly the one to try. It’s not dry or heavy going like some and you don’t need to have a degree in Astrophysics to enjoy it. Long gone the image of thick-rimmed glassed music professors in flares noodling around in impossible time signatures. Now there is new blood, new energy and WHAT a voice, it truly has left me with goosebumps. This young talent from Melbourne Australia is really going places. And I for one will be really keen to see quite how far she can go.” (Kore) – Metal Roos

“a really enjoyable record (Kore)” – Sentinel Daily

“Victoria K. are refreshingly different and very profound on “Kore”. Symphonic Metal gets a breath of fresh air here, both lyrically and musically.” (Kore) – Dark Divas

““A Divine Revelation”, is one of my favorites off this album. Victoria’s depth of character and love for this story can be felt with every note she sings. She is “alive” in this story as if it were real. You can feel it in her vocal delivery. So much time and effort was put into delivering the lyrics and story in just the right way. I take my hat off to her and the band for trying to bring such a powerful story to life with music. She sings in Greek to add to the authenticity of this masterpiece.” (Kore) – Progressive Rock Central

“How nice it is that the power in her voice does not decrease, but increases. No high warbling but pure power. Just listen to ‘A Divine Revelation’ for example. Do you like bands with their own sound and who know how to bring something new? Then put this on.” (Kore) – Arrow Lords of Metal

“Lovers of symphonic metal listen up… because Victoria K is about to put Australia on the map.” – Heavy Magazine

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0 The Perfect Devil’s Night Soundtrack! Canada’s GRAVEMASS’ (ft. members of Zimmers Hole, 3 Inches of Blood, Revocation) New Music Video “Spitting Hell”

October 30, 2024
by Asher
· GraveMass · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 30, 2024

The Perfect Devil’s Night Soundtrack! Canada’s GRAVEMASS’ (ft. members of Zimmers Hole, 3 Inches of Blood, Revocation) New Music Video “Spitting Hell”

GraveMass L-R – Mayan Hate – Guitar, Destroyer of Souls – Drums, Lord Heathen – Vocals, Bowels of Hell – Bass, Murderer of Colonizers – Guitar

Photo Credit – Whytewolf Photography

Just in time for Devil’s Night! and your Halloween scares! Canada’s newest black / death metal demons GraveMass (ft. members from Zimmers Hole, West of Hell, The Golers, Punch Drunk, 3 Inches of Blood, Revocation) are unleashing their next single and music video “Spitting Hell”, which will be featured on their forthcoming debut album in 2025. The full-length, written by Mayan Hate and with lyrics by Lorde Heathen, promises to be a masterclass in extreme death metal, capturing the true spirit of Canadian black metal.

Watch and listen to the music video for “Spitting Hell” at https://youtu.be/r477FZl1VFo

Emerging from the depths of the Canadian West Coast metal scene, GraveMass is set to redefine extreme death metal and black metal with their fierce and unrelenting sound. Embodying the essence of sonic brutality with their sinister riffs, bone-crushing rhythms, and unholy vocals. Drawing inspiration from legends like Slayer, Venom, Morbid Angel, Watain, and Napalm Death, GraveMass is a relentless onslaught of evil, guaranteed to leave a lasting impact on any listener. With decades of experience between its members, they have united to create a sound that is both devastating and true to the roots of black metal.

Prepare yourself for the extreme sonic assault of GraveMass – this is just the beginning.

Previous Single:

Music Video – “Slave to Pain” – https://youtu.be/9cW-Rk9koq0

Digital singles available at https://gravemass.bandcamp.com/

More info: Gravemass.com | Facebook.com/people/Grave-Mass/61556695854887/ | Instagram.com/gravemass1

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
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0 Canadian Thrashers MUTANK Return With New Album “Think Before You Think” Out End of November 2024 via Boonsdale Records

October 29, 2024
by Asher
· Music News · MUTANK

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 29, 2024

Canadian Thrashers MUTANK Return With New Album “Think Before You Think” Out End of November 2024 via Boonsdale Records

L-R – Ahmed Saad (Drums), Stephen Reynolds (Bass, Vocals), Costa Skoulikas (Guitar), Chris Nascimben (Guitar)

Photo Credit – Kat Dydyk

Canadian thrash maniacs MUTANK return with their newest collection of bangers and first taste of new neck-breaking tunes in seven years since releasing their mosh heavy EP “W.H.A.T.S.T.H.A.T.” in 2017 via Boonsdale Records.

Entitled “Think Before You Think” will be released once again on Boonsdale Records on November 29th, 2024, and features ten volcanic thrash tracks to blaze a new path to jackhammer a pure audio assault. Live favourites such as “Running Reds”, “Abortron”, and “Thrash Primordial” are sure to please die-hard fans for easy repeat listens.

Vocalist/bassist Stephen Reynolds comments:

“We want this album to energize people and make them feel the way we do when we listen to some of our favourite artists. This album is the most material we have ever put out! 50 minutes of pure metal across 10 tracks. The songs really picked themselves as we kept writing tracks we really enjoyed playing.”

With a passion for classic thrash and a desire to play radical riffs, MUTANK made a deservedly big splash on the Canadian metal scene with their debut EP “M.E.C.H METAL” and a performance at Wacken Open Air after being declared champions of the 2014 Wacken Metal Battle Canada competition.

Live Video – MUTANK at Wacken Open Air 2014 – https://youtu.be/yQrLaG8BPL4

With their distinctive sound, the band moved forward in 2017, touring across Canada supporting ANNIHILATOR alongside Australia’s MASON in support of their EP “W.H.A.T.S.T.H.A.T” (Boonsdale Records). Metal Injection also named the band “1 of 8 Hidden Gems in Canadian Metal You Need To Know” (Read here).

2024 will be a tour de force for MUTANK with the launch of “Think Before You Think”. Fans of D.R.I., Suicidal Tendencies, Havok, Megadeth, Overkill, and Exodus are sure to join them in the pit when it releases on November 29th, 2024 on Boonsdale Records.

CD Pre-Order (Limited to 250 copies) – https://boonsdale.bigcartel.com/product/mutank-think-before-you-think-cd-pre-order

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3NLOS88

Track Listing:
1. Illuminatus – 6:14
2. Payback – 5:24
3. All Against All – 4:43
4. Channel Change – 5:11
5. Bad Magnitude – 5:30
6. Abortron – 3:37
7. Groundbreaker – 2:08
8. Metalheads For Hire – 5:37
9. Running Reds – 6:27
10. Thrash Primordial – 4:40
Album Length: 49:38

More Info: Boonsdalerecords.com | Facebook.com/bonebrainsnotdemolishers | Instagram.com/mutank_or_die | X.com/MUTANK

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Highlight: #2 – Canadian National Loud Chart – August 2017 – Top 20 Loud (Earshot)

“they play good-natured thrash a la Overkill and Exodus… perfectly serviceable and enjoyable, definitely more effective when they are playing fast.” – Decibel Mag

Metal Injection named MUTANK 1 of 8 Hidden Gems in Canadian Metal You Need To Know – Read here.

“Based out of (arguably) the metal hub of the nation, Montreal, Mutank are a ferocious and frenzied crossover-thrash band that infect its listener with an ear worm that no amount of Michael Buble ballads can remedy. The 2014 winners of the Wacken Metal Battle Canada contest have churned out consistently crushing thrash riffs for years and have all the tools and check off all the required boxes to make a major play in the global metal market. For first time listeners, check out “Corporate Child” from their 2014 album M.E.C.H. Metal and the pulverizing headbanger “D.E.A.T.H.” from their 2017 EP W.H.A.T.S.T.H.A.T” – Metal Injection

“Montreal punk/thrash crossover act MUTANK has quickly become my favourite new discovery in the world of metal. They’re fast, funny, and equal parts smart and stoopid, with lyrics like “Who do Mu Tank you are?” and a band name that gets likened to a cross between a “mutant” and a “tank”. MUTANK’s music hearkens back to vintage Suicidal Tendencies, D.R.I., or the more metal moments of the Dayglo Abortions or SNFU.” – Georgia Straight

“Killer drumming, awesome bass hooks, great rhythm & furious sounding vocals. It’s a statement of intent from Mutank. That they are not to be underestimated & written off as just another ‘thrash throwback’.” – Games, Brains & A Headbanging Life

“They have a lot of thrashing songs that have abbreviated titles, and they kick some serious ass with their old school music and hardcore attitude.” – The Headbanging Moose

“Mutank have gotten creative with each song on the album, by coming up acronyms to fit the title of the album, they describe their sound as a “T-rex skateboarding down a volcano”. If your a fan of old school Overkill, Megadeath or Exodus or if you just want a fast and thrash album check it out” – Canadian Beats

“Fast riffs, Heavy tempos crazy yelling.. its got all you’ve asked for. A mix of Suicidal Tendencies Punk/Thrash debut, Nuclear Assault fast moshing killer speed assault…a great funny and entertaining mini album for all beer drinkers fans of Tankard and ready to get into the moshpit 100/100.” – The Metal Mag

“grab you battlejack, studs and spandex trousers and feel like you are back in 1985.” – Lords of Metal

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