Category: Music News

0 Romanian Folkcore DIRTY SHIRT Teams Up with Hungarian Legends Besh o droM for Explosive Duo Version of “Büntető”

April 3, 2026
by Asher
· Dirty Shirt · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 3, 2026

Romanian Folkcore DIRTY SHIRT Teams Up with Hungarian Legends Besh o droM for Explosive Duo Version of “Büntető”

Dirty Shirt, one of Eastern Europe’s most innovative and high‑energy metal bands, announces the release of their new single “Büntető”, a powerful collaborative re‑imagining of the Hungarian folk hit originally performed by world‑renowned group Besh o droM. The track marks the second single from Dirty Shirt’s next studio album, following the success of their first preview, “FOMO.”

The collaboration brings together two of the region’s most dynamic musical forces, blending Dirty Shirt’s signature heavy, dance‑driven metal with Besh o droM’s virtuosic approach to Eastern European and Balkan folk traditions. The result is a 194 BPM explosion of energy, featuring 16 musicians and a seamless fusion of traditional instrumentation with modern metal intensity.

Dirty Shirt describes the partnership with Besh o droM as natural, inspiring, and full of mutual respect.

“We are very happy to have made this collaboration. We love Besh o droM’s music, and it was wonderful to see how open they were to working together with us. One of the highlights was performing the song together at Dirty Fest 2025, and part of the video includes footage from that incredible concert,” says the band’s leader, Mihai Tivada.

Dirty Shirt has been performing their live version of “Büntető” for over a year, including a standout moment at Pol’and’Rock Festival 2025, where the song became one of the most celebrated highlights of their set. Fans have been eagerly awaiting an official release.

“Many fans already know the song from our concerts, and it always gets an incredible reaction. We’re confident they’ll love this studio version, especially since we’re teaming up with one of the greatest gypsy/folk/rock bands from Hungary, Besh o droM,” adds Mihai.

At its core, “Büntető” is about positive, uplifting energy and the belief that music transcends borders. Lyrically inspired by traditional Hungarian folk themes, the song tells a vivid story rooted in village life, relationships, and raw human emotion. Musically, it merges the fiery spirit of gypsy folk with Dirty Shirt’s unmistakable modern folkcore metal sound.

The release of “Büntető” also comes as Dirty Shirt wraps up their triumphant Dirtylicious Decade Tour, with 8 of 11 shows sold out, and prepares for a packed summer festival season, including their third appearance at Wacken Open Air in Germany.

Recommended for fans of Skindred, Bloodywood, Alestorm, Dubioza Kolektiv, Russkaja, and The Hu.

Watch and listen to the video for “Büntető” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7v19wziCY8

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://ffm.to/bntet

First single “FOMO” (Fear of Missing Out) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tyloBE8YbqY

The band also recently released a full live performance from Pol’and’Rock Festival 2025 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v67KzzE6ivk

DIRTY SHIRT Dirtylicious Decade Tour
Ticket Info – https://www.ambilet.ro/dirtyshirt/
17.04.2026 – Oldies Pub – Sibiu
19.04.2026 – The Station – Petrosani
08.05.2026 – Log Out – Baia Mare
09.05.2026 – Soho Music Hall – Bistrita
22.05.2026 – Terasa Flex – Arad
23.05.2026 – In Spatele Casei – Timisoara

For more info: https://linktr.ee/dirtyshirtband

About Dirty Shirt:
For over 30 years, Dirty Shirt has stood as one of Eastern Europe’s most original and successful rock/metal acts. Formed in the mid‑90s as a wedding band, they evolved into a genre‑blending powerhouse known for fusing modern heavy music with the vibrant energy of Eastern European traditional sounds. Their explosive live shows and innovative approach have taken them to major festivals across Europe, including Hellfest, Wacken Open Air, Pol’and’Rock, Electric Castle, and more—and earned praise from outlets such as Metal Hammer, Rock Hard, Metalsucks, and Hard Rock Mag. Dirty Shirt has performed over 1000 shows in 17 countries and shared stages with Megadeth, Godsmack, Gogol Bordello, Skindred, and Orphaned Land.

About Besh o droM:
Formed in Budapest in 1999, Besh o droM is one of Hungary’s most influential and internationally celebrated world‑music groups. Their sound blends the folk traditions of Hungary, Eastern Europe, and the Balkans with modern elements, creating a unique “virtual folklore” free of cultural borders. Over the past 25 years, they have performed on five continents at major world‑music, folk, gypsy, jazz, and rock festivals. Their album Besh o droM20 spent several months on the World Music Chart Europe Top 20, and the band continues to evolve with new music and a dynamic, mature sound.

-30-

“Long time readers will know by now that I am partial to the weirder side of heavy music. Dirty Shirt certainly has my attention this week. They’re like a mix of 6:33, Russkaja, and Turisas. This is bombastic, fun metal with Romanian folk mixed in. ” – Metal Injection

“Dirty Shirt, Your New Favorite Transylvanian Folk-Core Band ” – Metal Sucks

“DIRTY SHIRT only sound like DIRTY SHIRT.” – Metal Temple

“Is it catchy? Yes. Is it fun? Yes. Is it utterly mental? Yes. Highly recommended” – Metal Observer

” “…you’ve never heard anything quite like this before”” – Sonic Abuse

“This album is buoyant, blistering and bolshy; you certainly want to get your dose now!” 8/10 – Powerplay Magazine (2022 – Get Your Dose Now!)

“”Whoa! ‘Get Your Dose Now!’ is definitely not your average metal album. It’s simply something that you won’t hear anywhere else. Dirty Shirt is the real deal with extraordinarily talented musicians and a uniqueness that sets them apart from the crowd. If you’re in the market for some new music, this band offers something for everyone, from hardcore metal and thrash to tribal and traditional. It’s like your grandmother’s goulash recipe, a little of this and a little of that, with the end result being magical and inimitable.” – Uber Rock (2022 – Get Your Dose Now!)

“Dirty Shirt did a good job again and ‘Get Your Dose Now!’ is a very nice album to listen to and it deserves a listen.” – Folk-Metal.nl (2022 – Get Your Dose Now!)

“with DIRTY SHIRT you have joy in life and fun in music. They ignite a light in the currently dark world. A good mood is guaranteed. So get your dose today, now, get vaccinated against sadness and depression. before it’s too late. – Saitenkult (2022 – Get Your Dose Now!)

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780 | jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
Instagram @AsherMedia
Tweet @AsherMedia

0 Gore House Prod. – Streaming Now! ONCHOCERCIASIS ESOPHAGOGASTRODUODENOSCOPY’s New Album “Fugue Gnawed from the Scabbed God Cerebrum”

April 2, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Onchocerciasis Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (Gore House Productions)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 2, 2026

Streaming Now! ONCHOCERCIASIS ESOPHAGOGASTRODUODENOSCOPY’s New Album “Fugue Gnawed from the Scabbed God Cerebrum”

L – R – The Popuko – Guitars, Drums, Bass, Backing Vocals, Alice Simard – Guitars, Drums, Jesse Agiomamitis – Vocals

Apocalyptic brutal slamming death metal entity Onchocerciasis Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (OxE) has partnered with Decibel Magazine for the exclusive stream premiere of their long‑awaited full‑length album, “Fugue Gnawed from the Scabbed God Cerebrum,” ahead of its official release on April 3, 2026, through Stillbirth Records / Gore House Productions.

The Decibel stream marks the first opportunity for fans to experience the album in its entirety, an eleven‑track descent into dissonant barbarity, cosmic violence, and experimental extremity. The LP represents OxE’s most ambitious and punishing work to date, expanding their sonic identity far beyond the foundations laid on their previous EP, “The Fallen Lament.”

Listen to the album in full on Decibel Magazine HERE.

OxE’s lineup spans three countries: Quebec City, Canada (Alice), Australia (Jesse), and Germany (Popu), yet their creative synergy is seamless. Originally a solo project by guitarist Alice Simard, OxE evolved into a collaborative force after Jesse joined in 2019. Popu, a longtime fan, later connected with Alice through their shared love of the obscure bullet‑hell game Touhou Project, completing the trio. Their influences range from Disentomb, Artificial Brain, and Deathspell Omega to video games (Dark Souls, NieR), anime (Berserk, Evangelion), and global folklore.

“Fugue Gnawed from the Scabbed God Cerebrum” is a meticulously crafted sonic nightmare. Musically, the album pushes OxE into their most experimental territory yet, layering warped synths, organic instrumentation, and alien sound design between the carnage of their signature riffs and gutturals.

“Start‑to‑finish, the album is dissonant, punishing, and disorienting. Many of the lyrical subjects are larger-than-life. The songs tell the story of a single entity, a godslayer, on a God‑of‑War‑esque rampage through the universe, all veiled in obscurity,” says vocalist Jesse Agiomamitis.

German multi‑instrumentalist The Popu adds:

“This is the most experimental OxE release to date. The synths and organic layers were destroyed and reshaped to give the soundscape an alien feel. I was heavily inspired by Nithing’s ‘Agonal Hymns and Dripping’s ‘Disintegration of Thought Patterns During A Synthetic Mind Traveling Bliss.’”

The album’s artwork, created by Mei Maro, reflects the band’s fascination with folklore, mythology, and surreal horror, an amalgamation of the influences that shaped the record’s writing.

From the chaotic opener “Conquering Divinity” to the melodic yet brutal closer “Forged in the Blackest Reaches of Blasphemy,” the album traverses a wide spectrum of textures and emotional weight. “Heaven’s Empty Halls” introduces dungeon‑synth‑esque atmospheres. “Entombed Within the Infinite Panopticon” delivers one of the album’s heaviest breakdowns. “Abyssikataplexika” showcases some of the most inhuman vocal performances OxE has ever recorded. “Apotheotic Apotemnophilia” explores melodic territory while maintaining crushing heaviness. Every track contributes to the overarching narrative of cosmic annihilation and psychological descent.

Recommended for fans of Deathspell Omega, Disentomb, Artificial Brain, First Fragment, Disgorge, and Ulcerate, OxE‘s “Fugue Gnawed from the Scabbed God Cerebrum” is their longest and most refined release yet: no filler, no restraint, and no compromise.

Album pre-order for CD, Cassette, and digitally from Stillbirth Records / Gore House Productions at https://orcd.co/scabbed-god-cerebrum

Track Listing:
1. Conquering Divinity – 3:17
2. The Fallen Lament, Paralytikus Ascends – 1:21
3. Severing What Makes Me Human – 2:41
4. Apotheotic Apotemnophilia – 3:03
5. Entombed Within the Infinite Panopticon – 2:23
6. Gutted & Corpsed – 3:05
7. Heaven’s Empty Halls – 5:13
8. Hurt Beyond Healing – 2:33
9. Abyssikataplexika – 2:35
10. Vile Verses Flogged into the Wings of Angels – 1:23
11. Forged in the Blackest Reaches of Blasphemy – 4:58
Album Length: 32:32

ROLES:
Jesse Agiomamitis: Vocals, Lyrics
Alice Simard: Composition, Guitars, Lead Guitars
The Popu: Additional Songwriting, Mixing and Mastering, Guitars, Bass, Orchestration and Sound Design, Additional lyrics, Additional Vocals

More info:

https://gorehouseproductions.com/

https://www.facebook.com/OnchoOfficial

https://www.instagram.com/onchocerciasis_official

-30-

“First of all besides the insane moniker and album title, I don’t even know how to label this shit. If you know, you know… It sounds like an army of angry lawnmowers rolling over cliffs and boulders, LOL! Fuck it… four tacos out of five!” – Micha Kite – Metal Underground

“A complex and bizarre name reflects the complex and bizarre nature of this band. Mixing Slam, Brutal Death Metal, hints of prog metal and other influences makes for a heady brew of extreme music…. This eclectic approach never lets up for the whole of the album, with so many familiar yet alien sounds emerging, riffs that sound like they were written by a thrash band, or slow dirgey sections that come straight from doom metal’s playbook. Does this approach work? Incredibly, yes! The album stays fresh and interesting; there is always something you draw your attention to and keep you listening. Combine this with the band’s art and lyrical efforts and it makes for a crazy, heady mixture of the heavy and the ridiculous, but at least it’s never boring!” – The Razor’s Edge

“Because the band varies quite a lot within the framework and smuggles in unwholesome elements, ‘Fugue Gnawed from the Scabbed God Cerebrum’ remains captivating from start to finish. Every listen reveals new details, and the craftsmanship and tight compositions make this album a delightful cocktail of proggy avant-garde brutal tech death slam jazz. Or something like that. Surprising, unexpected, and constantly memorable: this is a top record of brutality.” – Musika

“Victims of brutal death metal will recognize the trauma inflicted by the song’s (Gutted and Corpsed) opening, a combination of furiously rattling snare-drums, sewer-gurgling riffage, and equally grotesque sewer-dwelling vocals, but even there the band also discharge shrill and weirdly squirming frequencies and shotgun blasts, as well as slamming hammer blows and bursts of viciously darting and insanely screaming fretwork. But the song shifts, opening a portal to an even more macabre cavalcade of screeching and bizarrely contorting tonalities (some of which are ejected from a contorting throat), accompanied by sudden and equally crazed percussive contortions and thudding bass-level throbs. Ghosts might be wailing and screaming, and there’s a guitar solo in the mix too, but it too has lost its mind. Near the end, when the drumming has become heavily medicated and slumbers, the music changes even more dramatically. Something like a flute enticingly whispers, and something like an oboe woozily wanders against a backdrop of gentling shimmering strings — a little caress to help you begin unscrambling your brain.” – No Clean Singing

“The speed of the drums, the ferocity of the vocals, the intensity of the guitars and how all of that blends together in the most diabolical way… Onchocerciasis Esophagogastroduodenoscopy are pushing boundaries here.. what they have created here is fascinating and admirable.. it is an unforgettable listen…” – Games Brrraaains and Head-Banging Life

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
Instagram @AsherMedia
Tweet @AsherMedia

0 Progressive Sludge Trio APE VERMIN Embark On “The Riders of The Damned Tour Part 2” w/ MEAN GREEN

April 2, 2026
by Asher
· Ape Vermin · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 2, 2026

Progressive Sludge Trio APE VERMIN Embark On “The Riders of The Damned Tour Part 2” w/ MEAN GREEN

North Carolina progressive sludge metal trio Ape Vermin will hit the road this spring for “The Riders of the Damned Tour Part 2,” across the U.S. alongside stoner metal trio Mean Green. The run supports Ape Vermin’s crushing full‑length “Andromedas Colossus,” the band’s most dynamic, melodic, and brutally expansive release to date.

The tour launches May 16 at Bull City Metal Fest in Durham, NC, and storms across the Southeast, Texas, the Southwest, and the Mountain states before closing June 12 in Chattanooga, TN (dates listed below).

The announcement arrives alongside the release of the band’s new lyric video for “Awakened,” created by filmmaker Kenji Tsunami of Tsunami Films (also bassist for Narcotic Wasteland). The track, an explosive fusion of sludge, thrash, and cosmic devastation, showcases the album’s apocalyptic themes and the band’s sharpened, evolved sound.

“‘Awakened’ is my personal favorite. Hell has come back to life. The Colossus is awake. Prepare for your imminent obliteration,” says guitarist/vocalist Brett Lee.

Watch the lyric video for “Awakened” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFKiEXOC0qI

Formed in 2017 by Brett Lee, drummer Seth Lynn, and bassist Jared Edge, Ape Vermin has carved out a reputation for no‑frills, high‑volume, amplifier‑worshipping heaviness. Their sound, described by the band as Colossal, Epic, Unique, Exciting, Heavy, pulls from sludge, doom, thrash, groove metal, death metal, and progressive rock.

With “Andromedas Colossus,” Ape Vermin pushes further into a dark, prophetic sonic realm built over a decade of writing. The album’s ten tracks range from the obliterating opener “Obliteration Imminent” to the tribal‑tinged instrumental “Pulse Driver,” the environmentally charged “Mining the Colossus,” and the epic closer “Return to Andromeda.” Lyrically, the record explores outer‑space phenomena, extraterrestrial mythos, prehistoric terror, psychedelic visions, and sci‑fi horror, an entire universe crafted in Lee’s mind.

“We want to take listeners on an epic sonic journey. This record is extremely dynamic, melodic, visceral, and dark. Fans can expect even more crushing material. We’re already working on the next LP,” adds Lee.

Recommended for fans of High on Fire, Crowbar, Mastodon, Yob, and Conan, check out “Andromedas Colossus” (released May 17th, 2024) at the following links:

Bandcamp – https://apevermin.bandcamp.com/

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/1Y5DAyV5AP3hLNSMDfuQkh

“The Riders of The Damned Tour Part 2” w/ Ape Vermin, Mean Green
5/16 – Durham, N.C – Bull City Metal Fest
5/17 – Winston-Salem, N.C – The Den
5/18 – Atlanta, GA – Boggs Social
5/19 – Savannah, GA – TBA
5/20 – Jacksonville, FL – Jack Rabbits
5/21 – Orlando, FL – TBA
5/22 – Tampa, FL – Brass Mug
5/23 – Lafayette, LA – Freetown Boom Room
5/24 – Dallas, TX – Reno’s Chop Shop
5/25 – Corpus Christi, TX – Boozers
5/26 – San Antonio, TX – TBA
5/27 – Austin, TX – TBA
5/28 – Houston, TX – Black Magic
5/29 – El Paso, TX – The Rockhouse
5/30 – Albuquerque, NM – TBA
5/31 – Scottsdale, AZ – Pho Cao
6/2 – Palmdale, CA – Transplants Brewery
6/3 – Las Vegas, NV – The Griffin
6/4 – Salt Lake City, UT – TBA
6/5 – Cheyenne, WY – TBA
6/6 – Denver, CO – TBA
6/7 – Colorado Springs, CO – Whats Left Records
6/8 – Kansas City, MO – The Warehouse
6/9 – Chicago, IL – Reggies
6/10 – Lexington, KY – Als Bar
6/11 – Nashville, TN – TBA
6/12 – Chattanooga, TN – JJs Bohemia

Track Listing:
1. Obliteration Imminent – 5:12
2. Colony – 7:00
3. Solaruss – 5:30
4. Pulse Driver – 3:47
5. Mining The Colossus – 8:06
6. Signal Transmissions – 2:45
7. Motherlode – 8:32
8. Awakened – 3:17
9. Unearthing the Artifact – 7:43
10. Return to Andromeda – 7:57

Album/Live Band Line Up:
Guitarist/Vocalist – Brett Lee
Drummer – Seth Lynn
Bassist – Jared Edge

More info: Facebook.com/ProgressiveDoom | Instagram.com/ape_vermin_official

-30-

“North Carolina progressive sludge metal juggernaut Ape Vermin have released a brand‑new lyric video for “Awakened,” the eighth and most explosive track from their latest EP, Andromedas Colossus, released in 2024… Kenji Tsunami’s visual interpretation amplifies the track’s themes of cosmic destruction, ancient forces, and the return of something colossal and malevolent. The lyric video mirrors the EP’s overarching atmosphere, dark, prophetic, and unrelenting, while giving fans a deeper look into the world Ape Vermin has constructed across the record… an epic celestial journey.” – Decibel Magazine (Awakened – Lyric Video)

“Ape Vermin’s Andromedas Colossus is doom to the core. Though a lot for one sitting, it’ll sustain your attention during a long walk or drive. Fans of the genre will find much to relish, be it individual tracks or the whole, and it’s certainly one of the standout albums of the year so far.” – Doomed And Stoned

“Lovers of slow, massive riffs, rejoice! Ape Vermin is here for your daily dose of gnarly Sludge and Doom Metal music!” – Ghost Cult Magazine

“Ape Vermin have delivered a bone-crunching album that pulls no punches with it’s fearless attitude and exploration into SONIC and PSYCHEDELIC manipulation of the highest order.” – Outlaws of The Sun

“if you’re looking to be transported to another crushingly heavy musical universe, Ape Vermin are worth a listen.” – Rough Edge

“These axe-generated discharges alone were the stuff of Tony Iommi’s nightmares, but then the bass-made ferociously fuzz-rich, rhythmic rumbles and intensely explosive drumming sealed the deal. All combined and then topped off with Lee’s caveman-like gutturalized grunting vocals, it was a recipe that could’ve resulted in APE VERMIN being culpable for assault & battery charges.” – Riff Relevant

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
Instagram @AsherMedia
Tweet @AsherMedia

0 Prog Rock Visionaries LUFEH Announce New Album “Overwhelmed” Out May 2026; Streaming First Single “He Commands The Sun and The Stars”

April 1, 2026
by Asher
· Lufeh · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 1, 2026

Prog Rock Visionaries LUFEH Announce New Album “Overwhelmed” Out May 2026

Streaming First Single “He Commands The Sun and The Stars”

Progressive rock outfit LUFEH returns with their most ambitious and emotionally charged work to date, “Overwhelmed,” the band’s long‑awaited new studio album, set for release on May 29, 2026. Leading the preview to the full-length is the explosive first single, “He Commands The Sun and The Stars,” a track that captures the band’s signature blend of technical mastery, soaring melodies, and cinematic storytelling.

Recorded at the legendary Sunset Sound in Los Angeles, “Overwhelmed” marks a major evolution for LUFEH, musically, lyrically, and creatively. The album introduces the band’s new featured vocalist and electric violinist, Ginny Luke, whose dynamic performances add a new dimension to LUFEH’s sound.

“This album is the result of a lot of dedication, maturity, and the realization of a dream. We focused on strong, memorable vocal melodies while keeping the complex musicianship our fans love. It’s the perfect balance of sophistication and catchiness,” says founder and drummer Lufeh Batera.

While LUFEH’s 2020 debut, “Luggage Falling Down,” leaned heavily into technical, instrumental complexity, “Overwhelmed” takes a more melodic, vocal‑driven approach without sacrificing the band’s progressive roots.

“We wanted songs people could sing with us. All eight tracks have choruses that stick with you. It’s complicated music that’s also catchy, and I think fans will really dig that blend,” explains Batera.

The album features eight meticulously crafted tracks, each around four minutes long, shaped through a collaborative writing process between members in Los Angeles and São Paulo. Despite the distance, roughly 70% of the album was created online, showcasing the band’s modern, global workflow. “Overwhelmed” explores emotional turbulence, spiritual renewal, and the struggle to stay grounded in a chaotic world. From the uplifting message of “Breathe” to the rock‑opera drama of “Feels Like I’m a Ghost,” the album blends heavy moments with melodic clarity and introspection.

“Overwhelmed” also marks the debut of Ginny Luke as LUFEH’s featured vocalist. An internationally recognized electric violinist and singer, Luke has performed with Foo Fighters, Britney Spears, Snoop Dogg, Miguel, and many others.

Her violin appears on three tracks, “Overwhelmed,” “Feels Like I’m a Ghost,” and “Live the New Today”, adding a dramatic, orchestral edge to the band’s progressive sound.

“Ginny brought a whole new dimension to this album. Her voice and violin transformed the music into something unique and powerful,” adds Batera.

LUFEH’s lineup is built on decades of friendship and collaboration. Guitarist Deio Tambasco and bassist Duca Tambasco have been playing with Batera since the early ’90s in their original band Anno Domini. Their long‑standing chemistry fuels the band’s tight, expressive sound.

“We’re all in our 50s, but we feel like we’re 30. We’ve been friends forever. There’s no ego in this band, just honesty, passion, and a lot of love,” adds Batera.

The first single, “He Commands The Sun and The Stars,” is a rhythmic tour‑de‑force anchored by Batera’s intricate drumming and a massive, unforgettable chorus. Lyrically, the song explores the rise and unraveling of a powerful figure worshipped by the masses, until the crowd begins to question him.

“It’s one of my personal favorites. It’s complex, but the chorus stays in your head. That’s exactly the balance we aimed for,” comments Batera.

Recommended for fans of Rush, Dream Theater, Haken, Sleep Token, and Tool, listen to “He Commands The Sun and The Stars” at the following links:

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0WG8j9ovlU

Add yo your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/3F0lCl87w8HoigLE1jPOnJ

Bandcamp – https://lufehband.bandcamp.com/

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 musicianship with emotional depth, jazz fusion influences, and Brazilian musical roots. Founded by drummer Lufeh Batera, the band is known for its sophisticated arrangements, dynamic performances, and genre‑defying creativity. Overwhelmed is the band’s second studio album, following their 2020 debut Luggage Falling Down.

– 30 –

“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)

—

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
Instagram @AsherMedia
Tweet @AsherMedia

0 Instrumental Prog-Metal Quartet PHAETON Announces “The Cosmic Dissonance Tour” Across British Columbia in Support of New Album “Neurogenesis”

March 31, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Phaeton

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 31, 2026

Instrumental Prog-Metal Quartet PHAETON Announces “The Cosmic Dissonance Tour” Across British Columbia in Support of New Album “Neurogenesis”

ft. Album Guest Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater, Planet X, Sons of Apollo)

Front (L-R): Kevin Thiessen (Guitars, Keyboards), Ferdy Belland (Bass), Daniel Airth (Guitars), Back: Colin Righton (Drums)

Photo Credit – Scott Courtemanche

British Columbia’s all‑instrumental progressive metal force PHAETON is gearing up to hit the road for their 2026 Canadian West Coast “The Cosmic Dissonance Tour,” supporting their latest third full‑length album, “Neurogenesis,” released this past October 2025. The tour marks the band’s first extended run across the province of British Columbia since the release of their 2020 sophomore album “Between Two Worlds.” It promises a blistering showcase of their evolving, hyper‑melodic, and technically ferocious sound.

Formed in 2017 in the mountain city of Kimberley, BC, Phaeton, Kevin Thiessen (guitars, keyboards), Daniel Airth (guitars), Ferdy Belland (bass), and Colin Righton (drums) have carved out a unique place in Canada’s metal landscape. Their fusion of neoclassical melodicism, crushing riff architecture, and cosmic prog-metal atmospherics has earned them a growing international following and stages alongside Beyond Creation, Anciients, and Bison.

“We’re beyond stoked to finally pull off a tour like this. We impress many people through our recordings, but live it’s a souped‑up, heavy‑hitting experience that gets in your face right before it’s melted down to the skull. We’re playing selections from all three of our albums and bringing our A‑Game. This won’t be the last time we rock across British Columbia, but we plan to make this first stint something special for everybody to remember,” says bassist Ferdy Belland.

Phaeton 2026 Canadian West Coast Tour:
April 4 – Cranbrook, BC – Shotties Nightclub w/ The Honeymans, Brotherhood of Lost Souls, and Garuda (Ferdy’s 55th Birthday Party) – info
April 8 – Kamloops, BC – Blue Grotto Nightclub w/ Tortion – info
April 9 – Kelowna, BC – Dunnenzie’s Downtown w/ Tortion – info
April 10 – Vancouver, BC – Cobalt w/ Vaegon, Quasicosm, No Faith in Fortune (Hyperspace Metal Festival VII Pre-Party) – info
April 11 – Mission, BC – Captain’s Cabin Pub w/ Anthem (Rush tribute), The Bifurcated – info

Following their acclaimed releases, self-titled (2018) and “Between Two Worlds” (2020), the band’s new and third album, “Neurogenesis,” sharpens their signature sound into something more concise, more dynamic, and more thematically unified. Inspired by concepts surrounding the technological singularity, cybernetic evolution, and the future of human identity, the album blends jazz‑fusion sensibilities with prog‑metal precision, djent‑infused heaviness, and neo‑classical melodic architecture.

Tracks such as “Tethys Rising,” “Isochron,” “Synesthesia,” “Arachnid,” and the expansive title track “Neurogenesis” explore everything from cosmic awe to psychological phenomena to dystopian futurism, without a single lyric. Phaeton’s instrumental approach allows listeners to project their own narratives, guided only by the band’s kaleidoscopic riffs, soaring leads, and tectonic rhythmic shifts.

Named after the mythical proto‑planet believed to have collided with primordial Earth, Phaeton channels cosmic chaos into meticulously crafted instrumental soundscapes. Their music draws from Dream Theater, Rush, Devin Townsend, Meshuggah, Mastodon, Gojira, and the jazz‑fusion giants of the 1970s, while maintaining a distinct identity rooted in technical virtuosity and interstellar imagination.

The band’s writing process is a fluid, collaborative effort, with each member contributing compositions and refining arrangements as a unit. Their live performances are heavier, crunchier, and more visceral than their polished studio recordings, an unexpected duality that has become a hallmark of their reputation.

“Neurogenesis” (released Oct 24th, 2025) is available now on digital platforms via INB Music. Vinyl editions arrive later this year.

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/album/46CVWFcd3u2pSRt0D9pSrV

Bandcamp – https://phaetonband.bandcamp.com/

Previous Singles:

Band Playthrough – Augmented – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oy28HaTZjvY

Band playthrough – Arachnid – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QxyU0U-vSOc

Isochron ft. Derek Sherinian – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ri8wXGYJcJg

Track Listing:
1. Tethys Rising (6:25)
2. Discontinuum (6:37)
3. Isochron (4:12) ft. Derek Sherinian
4. Synethesia (6:24)
5. Arachnid (4:48)
6. Augmented (4:37)
7. Neurogenesis (6:16)
Album Length: 39:19

Band Lineup:
– Colin Righton: Drums & Percussion
– Daniel Airth: Lead & Rhythm Guitars
– Kevin Thiessen: Lead & Rhythm Guitars, Keyboards
– Ferdy Belland: Electric Bass

For more info: https://linktr.ee/phaetonofficial

Fun facts about the band:

Bassist Ferdy Belland owns nearly 8,000 vinyl records, collects Bronze Age comics and militaria, and has a long career as a respected music journalist.

Drummer Colin Righton is an exceptional chef and tennis fanatic, known as the “Gordon Ramsay of prog‑metal.”

Guitarist Daniel “Danimal” Airth is the quietest member of the band despite his ferocious riff output.

Guitarist/keyboardist Kevin Thiessen is one of BC’s top recording engineers and a die‑hard Back to the Future fan.

– 30 –

“A creative restlessness drives the music of Phaeton, British Columbia’s fieriest instrumental prog metal quartet. Their new album, Neurogenesis (INB Music), defies the notion that a lack of vocals can be a disadvantage, with smart, detailed tunes that get the balance between virtuoso showboating and tight, taut songwriting just about right. A cameo from Derek Sherinian on the exotic Isochron is a neat bonus, but this band have hooks and dynamics to burn, and Synesthesia and the title track are simply masterful.” – Prog Magazine

“Hailing from picturesque Kimberly, British Columbia — which is actually closer to Montana’s Glacier National Park than anywhere geographically challenged Americans might have heard of in British Columbia — comes progressive metal quartet Phaeton. Earlier this year the band released their third full-length, Neurogenesis a collection of songs with dizzying and intricate salutations to Cynic, BTBAM, Meshuggah and fellow BC-ers Anciients (who hail from the more recognizable Vancouver). Today we present the play through video of the album’s fourth single “Augmented.” Normally, we frown upon play through videos around these parts, but gave Phaeton a mulligan because not only does the track rule in a structured ‘tear-that-math-textbook-up!’ sort of way, but also because it reminds us a teensy bit of the classic Animusic digital video series.” – Decibel Magazine (Video Premiere: Getting Tech-y With Phaeton’s “Augmented”)

“Neurogenesis refers to the formation of new nerve cells in the brain. A suitable album title for a band that sees intellectual complexity as a pillar of their work. In this case, the brain consists of progressive heavy metal. Its way of thinking is fueled by a long learning process as well as a rich wealth of experience. That the “big names” of the genre have manifested themselves in it is also recognizable without neurological expertise. The art of the Canadian quartet consists of implementing the whole purely instrumentally. They succeed in doing this on “Neurogenesis” even a little better than on the predecessor “Between Two Worlds” (2023). The pieces are composed more clearly to the point, without losing any sophistication. Although the absence of the human voice still makes itself felt as a musical ‘guiding force.’ Once again, the band provides an extensive ‘track-by-track’ in which the backgrounds of the pieces are explained. And: Already, another EP as well as the successor to ‘Neurogenesis’ have been announced with title and release year. Someone is thinking ahead. Top Track: Isochron (feat. Derek Sherinian)” – Eclipse Magazin

“”Neurogenesis” one of the hottest tips of the running season. At least when it comes to instrumental prog, the band has reached the top of the annual list!” – PowerMetal.de

“Explore the sonic evolution of PHAETON in their album Neurogenesis, blending melody and heavy instrumentation for a unique experience.” – Bass Musician Magazine

“Neurogenesis is a crushing and cerebral listen from a band that has sharpened its sound to a fine point. Phaeton confidently bridges the gap between melody and pure, unadulterated musicianship. They fuse the ferocious compositions of modern metal with the ambitious spirit of classic prog rock, creating a unique and thrilling sound that stands alone.” – AltYegMusic

“Oh prog-metal how we love thee…case in point, the new single ‘Isochron ft. Derek Sherinian’ from Phaeton. This dandy little slice of modern prog-metal is not only exceptionally recorded but is jammed full of stabbing riffs, fluid bass lines, drum rolls galore and of course keyboard wizardry courtesy of the legendary Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater, Planet X, Sons of Apollo). Keep an eye out for the new album “Neurogenesis” from PHAETON set to drop on Oct. 24th and to tide you over listen up for ‘Isochron’ on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll

“I’ve always maintained that instrumental bands have to work harder at their craft, because the lack of vocals is one more thing they have to find a replacement for. Lead guitar breaks can take the place of vocals, as can keyboards. They do a solid job of this on the album… They have the chops, that’s for sure.” – Metal-Temple”Neurogenesis“ is a work that combines virtuosity, atmosphere and emotion in extraordinary balance.” 4/5 – MetalUnderground.at

“PHAETON’s Neurogenesis: Where Prog-Meets-Precision, and Machines Whisper to the Riffs” – Papy Jeff Metal

“Phaeton’s sound is a kaleidoscope of progressive sounds, tech-death, thrash and djent… The album opens with the song “Tethys Rising” has in it’s a lot of austerity, but you can hear perfectly strong and expressive here sound and style. Song “Discontinuum” also holds the right one level and very exciting. The dynamics and rhythm are impressive here. Piece “Isochron” with the guest participation of Derek Sherinian, he enriches and has in great riffs, but there are also Middle Eastern elements, which it also increases the effect. Number “Synethesia” it emphasizes even more the intensity and complexity of sounds with a lot of power and energy. Track “Arachnid” he has a lot of neoclassical playing, but he doesn’t forget about it crushing playing with lots of thrills. Song “Augmented” it also has a specific level to it. Title piece “Neurogenesis” he crowns the album with pride and precision. You can hear perfectly balanced music here, which has a claw, feistiness and focuses on diversity and versatility. 4/5″ – W-Mgnieniu-Rocka

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media Relations
Instagram – AsherMedia
Tweet – AsherMedia

0 California Modern Metal REIGN OF ECHOS’ New Single “Static Vein” Dives Deep In The Struggle of Our Inner Demons

March 31, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Reign of Echos

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 31, 2026

California Modern Metal REIGN OF ECHOS’ New Single “Static Vein” Dives Deep In The Struggle of Our Inner Demons

L-R – Robert Gresham (Bass, BU Vocals), Randy Lee (Guitar, Lead Vocals), Dustin Reddington (Drums, BU Vocals)

Southern California’s rising modern‑metal force Reign of Echos has released their highly anticipated second single and lyric video, “Static Vein,” recently released on March 13, 2026. The track follows the band’s January debut, “Blindside,” which introduced their signature blend of crushing heaviness, cinematic atmosphere, and emotionally charged storytelling.

Formed in 2025, Reign of Echos, featuring Randy Lee (guitar/lead vocals), Rob (bass/backing vocals), and Dustin (drums/backing vocals), has rapidly emerged as one of the most focused and creatively driven new metal acts to come out of Apple Valley in Southern California. Their chemistry was immediate, their writing process naturally seamless, and their shared vision unmistakable: to craft music that is creative, unique, powerful, driven, and relentlessly hard‑hitting.

The band aims to deliver a listening experience that feels deeply relatable, intensely energetic, and adrenaline‑charged, building not just songs but a full‑scale sonic experience. This project also marks the first time Randy has written using a 7‑string guitar, expanding the band’s tonal range and adding new depth to their evolving sound.

“Static Vein” dives deep into the universal struggle against inner demons and the lingering darkness that exists within all of us. The band describes the track as a collision of madness, tension, and hope, with the music mirroring the internal battle portrayed in the lyrics.

“Static Vein was exciting for us to release as it is more of a presentation of our style of music. The song will be relatable to a wide audience while we all have struggled with some type of inner demon,” says Lee.

Musically, the track pushes the trio into more intricate territory while maintaining the raw intensity that defines their sound. The accompanying music video amplifies the song’s themes with powerful, eye‑catching visuals that tell the story in a single, striking image.

The band’s debut single, “Blindside,” set the tone for their arrival, an explosive track born from real‑life betrayal and emotional upheaval.

“Blindside was our first song written together. The song came out so effortlessly since one of us had just encountered a betrayal that was perfect for a song lyrically and musically,” adds Lee.

With both singles now out, fans are getting their first real look into the band’s upcoming EP, featuring six of their most powerful and cohesive tracks to date, with a full album to follow. Listeners can expect raw emotion, crushing grooves, modern creative edge, and a relentless commitment to pushing their sound even further.

Recommended for fans of Lamb of God, Gojira, Korn, Mudvayne, and Trivium, listen to both singles at the following links:

Lyric Video – Static Vein – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPQ6XJ_godQ

Music Video – Blindside – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFebCeH6z6I

Add to your Spotify Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/artist/0ucAi70jllo0wXWmXnlO7H

More info: https://www.linktr.ee/reignofechos

-30-

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media Relations
Instagram – AsherMedia
Tweet – AsherMedia

0 Canada’s Raunchiest Rock n’ Roll Carnivores SONS OF BUTCHER Release New EP “Skids” + Video ‘Denim Dreamin'” + Tour Dates

March 27, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Sons of Butcher

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 27, 2026

Canada’s Raunchiest Rock n’ Roll Carnivores SONS OF BUTCHER Release New EP “Skids” + Video ‘Denim Dreamin'”

Ontario / Quebec Tour with B.A. Johnston

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

Photo Credit – Evan Thompson

After a decade‑long hiatus, the band behind Teletoon’s cult animated series is officially back in the butcher shop with their most polished, unhinged, and radio‑ready material to date. Canada’s raunchiest rock‑and‑roll carnivores, Sons of Butcher, have unleashed “Skids, a brand‑new four‑song EP and their first batch of fresh cuts since 2020. Released today, March 27th, 2026, the EP arrives alongside the new music video for “Denim Dreamin’,” the follow‑up to their first single “Makin’ Bacon.”

Known for fusing vulgar absurdist comedy with heavy riffs and chaotic live antics, Sons of Butcher first carved out their legacy as the real‑world extension of their Teletoon animated series, building a cult following through spandex‑clad performances, pepperette‑throwing, and unapologetically ridiculous rock theatre. Forged in the grease‑splattered heart of Hamilton’s mock‑rock scene, “Skids” marks a new chapter, one that slices away from their animated origins and dives headfirst into a raw, unfiltered batch of comedy‑rock anthems.

“This EP marks the first time we’ve written songs that don’t have a direct connection to the cartoon storyline, except for Peppercorn Steak. Instead, this EP is an honest batch of comedy songs from the grease‑clogged hearts of a band of has‑been butchers,” adds frontman Ricky Butcher.

Produced by longtime collaborator Jordon Zadorozny (Meatlantis, Rise & Fall of the Steaks) at Skylark Park in Pembroke, ON, “Skids” is a loud, unapologetic love letter to skid‑life: cheap meat, denim devotion, and the gritty charm of back‑alley ambition. The EP also features drumming by Kellii Scott of the acclaimed band Failure, a full‑circle moment for Ricky Butcher, who first discovered Zadorozny’s work through Scott’s playing.

Musically, “Skids” pushes Sons of Butcher into their most radio‑ready territory yet, without losing the filthy heart that made them cult icons. Opening track “Denim Dreamin’” is a surprisingly wholesome, socially acceptable anthem celebrating denim as a lifestyle. Catchy, bouncy, and tailor‑made for anyone who’s ever bought a patch or band tee. “Makin’ Bacon” is a metal‑forward, riff‑heavy ode to the universal love of bacon. Chaotic, catchy, and dangerously addictive. “Steeltown Handy” is a pop‑rock earworm exposing the underbelly of Hamilton’s gritty streets, raunchy, melodic, and impossible to forget. And EP closer, “Peppercorn Steak,” is a return to classic SOB absurdity. Originally featured in an independently created third‑season pilot of the cartoon, now fully realized with soaring vocals and chunky riffage.

The EP’s cover features a live photo from the band’s first show after their ten‑year hiatus, Ricky Butcher and Doug Borski locked in a triumphant rock pose. The image has become symbolic of the band’s rebirth and renewed momentum.

To celebrate the release of the new EP, SOB‘s newest music video brings “Denim Dreamin’” to life with a tongue‑in‑cheek celebration of denim culture, matching the track’s upbeat swagger and infectious chorus. It follows the success of the EP’s first single, “Makin’ Bacon,” which kicked off the new era of Sons of Butcher with a blast of high‑energy mock‑metal.

“This is the first clean‑cut Sons of Butcher track we have ever written! With a catchy refrain and bouncy riff, the song proudly declares that denim isn’t just a fashion choice, it’s a full‑blown way of life. Anyone who’s ever bought a patch or a band tee will feel this one in their soul,” says Ricky Butcher.

Watch the video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZNUtzaO8IY

With “Skids,” the band isn’t just back, they’re carving out a new chapter in their meaty legacy.

Recommended for fans of Tenacious D, Spinal Tap, Psychostick, and Steel Panther, “Skids” is available now as of March 27th, 2026, 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

In additional news, Sons of Butcher are gearing up for a handful of Spring 2026 tour dates, including five shows with Hamilton’s beloved skid‑icon B.A. Johnston.

Show Dates:
April 2 – Honey Dip – London, ON – opening for B. A. Johnston
April 3 – L’Hemisphere Gauche – Montreal, QC – opening for B. A. Johnston
April 4 – House of Targ – Ottawa, ON – opening for B. A. Johnston
April 17 – The Corktown – Hamilton, ON – opening for B. A. Johnston
April 18 – Baby G – Toronto, ON – opening for B. A. Johnston

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

“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” stands out as a release with a clear entertainment-driven focus… an immediate and thoroughly enjoyable listening experience.” – Metalwar.gr

“Lockdown In Steeltown is a cheeky account that belongs with all historical records, as a kind of sly reminder when the next pandemic hits. Although it should probably be kept in the same section with Spinal Tap, “Weird” Al Yankovic, and pretty much every Dr. Demento show. I give this EP two Purell-sanitized thumbs up!” – Boston Rock Radio (2020 – Lockdown in Steeltown)

“the EP manages to lift the spirits of one or another rock fan with heavy music and silly jokes when they’re feeling cooped up, it has fulfilled its purpose. In any case, we’re not going to let a virus ruin our good mood.” – PowerMetal.de (2020 – Lockdown in Steeltown)

“Thing is, if there’s a word or a sentiment that could sum up 2020 is there one better than “FUCK!”?. As such, this could well be the album of our times. Crank it up, grab a beer, laugh at the childishness of it all and let twenty minutes or so more of the damn year slip by forever.” – Moshville Times (2020 – Ricky Butcher – Fuck! The Album)

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media Relations
Instagram – AsherMedia
Tweet – AsherMedia

0 Wacken Celebrates Global Warm-Up Party! “One World One Stage,” 35 Shows Will Take Place In 35 Countries On A Single Day!

March 26, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Wacken Metal Battle Canada · Wacken Metal Battle USA

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 27, 2026

Wacken Celebrates Global Warm-Up Party!

“One World One Stage,” 35 Shows Will Take Place In 35 Countries On A Single Day!

On April 18th, 2026, 35 Wacken warm-up concerts will rock the globe! Almost 24 hours will pass between the first show in Japan and the last in Mexico, all of them filled with the best heavy metal music, with celebrating fans coming together for this special event. A live experience carried by the legendary Wacken spirit.

The worldwide party is being organized by various promoters from the global community of the Wacken Metal Battle, the festival’s own band competition, which now includes 102 participating nations. Promoters from 35 of these countries have joined forces for the Wacken anniversary to celebrate the worldwide warm-up party.

“The core idea is to bring the world together and unite it through what we love most: music! That’s what the Metal Battle community stands for, that’s what we stand for, and that’s what Wacken Open Air has represented since day one,” emphasizes festival founder Thomas Jensen.

In Germany, the warm-up will be celebrated at Hamburg’s Betty club starting at 8 p.m. The Boston-based band Lansdowne will bring their hook-driven, energetic rock to the Hanseatic city. The international event “One World One Stage” is being organized by Salman U. Syed, who is responsible for the Metal Battle at W:O:A and has been shaping the global networking of the scene for years.

“The sense of unity within the metal scene is strong worldwide, and bands as well as promoters in the individual countries immediately threw themselves into setting a powerful sign of unity while celebrating 35 years of Wacken Open Air together with us!”

The event in Hamburg on April 18th, therefore, seamlessly joins the global chain of parties. The event stands for unity, passion, and heavy metal without borders.

Tickets and further information about the warm-up parties around the globe are available here.

Additionally, impressions from the shows in all participating countries will be shared during the day via the social media channels of the Wacken Open Air. #oneworldonestage

Each country will present bands in a club selected by the local Metal Battle promoters.

For example, in Canada, Toronto, ON’s The Garrison will host the 2018 Canadian battle champions, Centuries of Decay as guest headliners for the Ontario Final along with Toronto round winners Dawn Vally, Gravearth, and Misothronos. More info here.

And in the USA, Tampa Bay, FL’s The Brass Mug will host the Southeast Regional Final with Endera (Savannah, GA), Nocturnal Dawn (Orlando, FL), Esca (GA / SC), ENDURUS (Tampa, FL), Dead Alive (Nashville, TN), Ramtha (St. Petersburg, FL) with guest co-headliner Psykotribe (Tampa, FL) and headliner Malevolent Creation (Tampa, FL). More info here.

*(Phantom Excaliver – Photo Credit: WOA Festival GmbH)*

In Tokyo, Phantom Excaliver will perform alongside three other Japanese bands. The musicians won the Wacken Metal Battle in 2023 and joyfully accepted their prize, after their singer briefly fainted. “The line-up at our warm-up party brings together the history, present, and future of the Japanese metal scene,” says Yutaro Shindo, Japan’s Metal Battle promoter.

Organizer Raúl Saavreda from Bogotá is also eagerly anticipating the event in his hometown: “Our warm-up party will be insane! With Tribute2Wacken, the first tribute band dedicated to a festival will perform — playing only songs devoted to the Wacken Open Air.” Additional tribute bands will perform highlights of British Heavy Metal. Saavreda is also the founder of Wacken Latinos, an association of Latin American fans who visit the Holy Ground in northern Germany every year. “A year without W:O:A is unimaginable for me,” he states. “When I first went there in 2019, Wacken changed my life. On the fields, I recharge my batteries — it’s a special time when I reunite with friends and fully devote myself to metal. The festival is my religion.”

Stjepan Juras from Zagreb confirms that most globally active promoters share similarly close ties to W:O:A. The respected music manager, author, and Iron Maiden expert represents Wacken Open Air and Metal Battle in his native Croatia, where he also organizes the warm-up party. “Wacken is not just a festival. The spirit and the community set it apart from other festivals. That’s also thanks to founders Thomas Jensen and Holger Hübner, who celebrate among their fans, maintain close contact with visitors, and are truly part of the scene.”

Since the very beginning, the motto of both W:O:A organizers has been “By fans for fans!” — and that naturally applies to the 35 warm-up shows on April 18, 2026, as well. “Normally, Wacken welcomes the world,” says founder Holger Hübner. “On this day, it’s the other way around: the world welcomes Wacken — and together we celebrate a global heavy metal party.”

Tickets for the Wacken Open Air are available here.

Further press materials, including a list of all participating countries, short interviews with selected Metal Battle promoters, and short biographies of selected bands, can be found here.

About Wacken Open Air:
Wacken Open Air is the largest heavy metal festival in the world. Starting with 800 visitors in 1990, nowadays 85,000 fans from all over the world travel to Wacken every year, turning the small village in Schleswig-Holstein into the center of the festival scene for several days. The organizing WOA Festival GmbH is connected to a broad network, including band management, the Wacken Foundation, tour booking, music publishing, Travel & Stay, merchandising distribution, and ticketing. In cooperation with partners, these results in creative solutions and ideas that revolutionize the festival experience, enable technical innovations, and produce extraordinary event concepts. Wacken Open Air 2026 will take place from July 29 to August 1, 2026.

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media Relations
Instagram – AsherMedia
Tweet – AsherMedia

0 “The Saint” of Mosh Pits! Vancouver’s WITHOUT MERCY Unleashes Explosive Video For New EP “Infinite Loss” Out May 2026

March 26, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Without Mercy

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 26, 2026

“The Saint” of Mosh Pits! Vancouver’s WITHOUT MERCY Unleashes Explosive Video For New EP “Infinite Loss” Out May 2026

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

Vancouver, Canada’s extreme groove metallers Without Mercy return with “Infinite Loss,” a new three‑track EP arriving May 8th, 2026, marking the group’s most focused and intentional work to date. Alongside the announcement, the band is unveiling the EP’s first single, “The Saint,” accompanied by a new music video.

Recorded after uprooting their lives and spending ten days living inside the studio environment, “Infinite Loss” captures a period of intense pressure, creative risk, and uncompromising honesty. For the first time in their career, the band left home to make a record, crossing borders, abandoning routine, and committing fully to the process.

“There was no comfort, no distance, and no way to step away. That isolation mattered. It stripped everything down to what was essential. This record exists because we chose to be uncomfortable, to argue honestly, and to stay in the room until it felt right,” says guitarist DJ Temple.

“The Saint” marks the band’s boldest departure yet. Shaped collaboratively between the band and their producer, John Douglass, the track pushes Without Mercy into unfamiliar territory while remaining grounded in the identity they’ve built since 2007.

The song explores the question at the heart of artistic evolution: How do you grow without abandoning the foundation that brought you here? Rather than discarding their roots, the band tests their flexibility, stretching them to the breaking point.

Lyrically, “The Saint” confronts the idea of being enslaved by the land, “all the different whips, and all the different backs.” Musically, it leans into space, tension, and unpredictable movement, challenging the band’s established direction and ultimately earning its place on the EP by expanding its emotional range.

“Infinite Loss” is built around three songs that the band describes not as singles, but as statements. Each track was chosen only after surviving months of scrutiny, revision, and honest critique, both internally and from its producer. Lyrically, the EP centers on the feeling of being hunted repeatedly by shifting, modern pressures: economic strain, identity, expectation, time, and survival. There is no single antagonist. The threat changes shape, but never disappears.

Musically, the record mirrors that tension through weight, repetition, and restraint. Riffs sit long enough to suffocate. Rhythms feel physical and deliberate. The aggression is controlled rather than explosive, creating a sense of inevitability rather than chaos. The result is a release that is confrontational without theatrics, an unfiltered snapshot of a band choosing discipline over convenience and honesty over expectation.

The EP’s artwork was created in collaboration with longtime friend Diego Gedoz de Souza, who helped refine the visual direction after early concepts fell short. The final image, a desolate forest with a massive void carved into the earth, reflects the EP’s emotional core: inevitability, loss, and the pull toward something inescapable.

Recommended for fans of Meshuggah, Alluvial, Decapitated, Fit For An Autopsy, and Gojira, watch and listen to the video for the first single, “The Saint,” via its premiere on NoCleanSinging HERE.

Due out on May 8th, 2026, EP “Infinite Loss” is available for pre-save at https://ffm.to/infiniteloss

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

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

Formed in 2007, Without Mercy is Alex Friis (vocals), DJ Temple (guitars), Ryan Loewen (bass), and Matt Helie (drums). Together, they built their identity on pushing boundaries and refusing comfort. Their sound fuses the weight of groove with the intensity of extreme metal, earning them stages alongside Cattle Decapitation, Aborted, Death Angel, and more.

Their discography includes All Else Fails (2007), Without Mercy (2009), Reborn/Mouichido (2014/2016), and Seismic (2020), each release expanding their technical precision, emotional depth, and genre‑defying approach.

The band’s evolution is rooted in contrast: four musicians with different influences learning to protect their differences rather than smooth them out. The result is a sound that is dynamic, unyielding, nuanced, textural, and intentional.

More info:

https://www.withoutmercyband.com/

https://www.facebook.com/withoutmercyband

https://www.instagram.com/withoutmercyband

-30-

“Without Mercy’s New Album Is A Whirlwind of Sonic Punishment” – The Pit (Seismic – 2020)

“Right from the start (Uprooted), Without Mercy set the bar high for their extremity, aiming for something far more chaotic. The opening is a mix between the pure grind-death akin to that of Cattle Decapitation, and the math metal sound of Protest the Hero.”- Metal Injection (Seismic – 2020)

“pay witness (I Break The Chain) to their thrashy death metal a la Cattle Decapitation, Meshuggah and Decapitated and watch as they adorn the blast beats and breakdowns with beer guts and brogues.” – Decibel Magazine (Seismic – 2020)

“…To put it simply: the band does an incredible job of blending their grooves with their growls. Between segments of death, doom, and shreddy guitar solos that absolutely slay, there are moments of satisfying melodic breakdowns, and cutting riffs to die for… Seismic is full of lyrics that hold true and poignant meaning while using powerful imagery to evoke epic scenes of turbulent life and painful decay in the minds eye… ground-shaking album. 4/5” – Metal-Rules (Seismic – 2020)

“Overall, two elements really struck me here…one was the level of intensity, and the other the level of musicianship from the band. How they can remain unsigned is a mystery to me. They play with such a tight synergy that it’s almost like they can finish each other’s sentences before they even open their mouth.” – Metal Temple (Seismic – 2020)

“While the heavy metal name generator might have had something to do with what this meaty metal unit called themselves, you can’t say it doesn’t fit. Without Mercy are pretty damn *ahem* merciless and to cap that off, their new album is so aptly titled. Seismic…a relentless powerhouse that is akin to tectonic plates smashing into each other. There is no fucking mercy and it’s fucking glorious. Excuse the swearing but that’s how this album makes you feel. It makes you feel like a beast. It makes you feel capable of taking on the world. It’s chunky, it’s thick, it’s chokingly devastating and undoubtedly one to be remembered.” – Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life (Seismic – 2020)

“The thrash-stomp modes on “Worthless” ring like a head-on collision between DECAPITATED and BIOHAZARD with a dash of power metal thrown into the solo section. Alex Friis wrings his throat to huge extremes, hopefully leaving tissue intact as he hits agonizing squeals while throwing indictments against former band members — guess on your own who that might entail. DJ Temple’s guitar work on “Worthless” is terrific..” (Mouchido EP 2016) – Blabbermouth

“Vancouver’s Without Mercy is a prime example of how putting in a little bit of elbow grease can result in advantageous outcomes. The quartet play their brand of melodic, groove-laden death metal independently, but refuse to remain held back by a lack in the promotional and money machine backing departments. Over the course of a decade or so, the band has experienced the same highs and lows as most others, but their successes – which include a small handful of recordings, a bigger handful of tours, and appearances in video games – have been felt at a deeper clip because they’ve essentially managed everything themselves.” (Mouchido EP 2016) – Decibel Magazine

“In a word, the music rips. And it also thunders, and punches so fast and hard that it’s like a jackhammer-sized nail gun ramming bolts into concrete at high speed while the operator howls and shrieks for all he’s worth, segmented by a start-stop breakdown that will give your skull a good rattling and lit up by swarming guitar flurries that are as fiery as the torches in the video (Burn).” (Mouchido EP 2016) – No Clean Singing

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook – Asher Media Relations
Instagram – AsherMedia
Tweet – AsherMedia

0 Streaming Now! SIEGE PERILOUS’ New Album “Becoming The Dragon” ft. Guests Fabio Lione (Rhapsody, Angra) and Kristin Starkey (Twilight Force, Temperance) + Music Video “Echoes of Home”

March 26, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Siege Perilous

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 26, 2026

Album Download HERE (for media use only)

Streaming Now! Power Metal Storytellers SIEGE PERILOUS’ Concept Album “Becoming The Dragon” + New Music Video “Echoes of Home”

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

L-R: Mark Girard (Drums) | Eric Fischer (Bass) | Shaughnessy McDaniel (Vocals) | Ryan Flanagan (Guitar) | Scott Hancock (Guitar)

Photographer Credit – Gii Astorga

Denver, CO power-metal storytellers Siege Perilous will be unveiling their long‑awaited debut full‑length concept album, officially on Friday, March 27th, via Crunchtronic Records. And before officially releasing, the band has teamed up with New Noise Magazine for the full-stream premiere of the concept record, along with their new music video for the emotional power ballad “Echoes of Home” ft. Kristin Starkey. The release follows months of anticipation fueled by the band’s earlier singles, including the title track and the Fabio Lione-fronted “As the Dragon Falls.”

“Becoming the Dragon” is a cinematic, story‑driven concept album chronicling the rise, fall, and transformation of the “Child of Prophecy,” a hero who ultimately embraces destiny by becoming the very dragon he was sworn to slay. Across ten tracks, Siege Perilous blends epic riffing, soaring vocals, and symphonic arrangements into a cohesive narrative arc that stands tall among modern power metal concept records. The album features two major guest vocalists who helped shape the band’s identity: Fabio Lione (Rhapsody, Angra) as the voice of the dragon in “As the Dragon Falls”, Kristin Starkey (Twilight Force, Temperance) as the Mystic in “Echoes of Home”.

For vocalist Shaughnessy McDaniel, these collaborations are deeply personal:

“Getting to sing alongside one of the voices that got me into metal as a teenager is an indescribable blessing, and having Kristin Starkey rip a power ballad with us is far beyond anything we could have hoped for.”

The newly released video “Echoes of Home” highlights one of the album’s most emotional moments, the “all is lost” chapter of the story. Written during a difficult period when McDaniel’s newborn son was in the NICU, the song channels grief, fear, and hope into a sweeping Jim Steinman-inspired power ballad.

“Those nights going home alone while my wife stayed with our son really fueled the sadness and sense of loss that became the core of ‘Echoes of Home.’ Thankfully, he’s now happy, healthy, and just celebrated his second birthday in February.”

Check out both the album and video on New Noise Magazine HERE.

Formed in Colorado by longtime friends and LARP companions Shaughnessy McDaniel (vocals), Scott Hancock (guitar), and Mark Girard (drums), Siege Perilous grew from a shared passion for fantasy storytelling and the electrifying inspiration of seeing Unleash the Archers live in 2021. Joined by Eric Fischer (bass) and later Ryan Flanagan, the band has evolved into a fully collaborative creative unit. Every track on “Becoming the Dragon: was shaped collectively, with each member contributing to the story beats, arrangements, and narrative flow. The result is a unified musical saga with each chapter standing strong as an individual song.

Epic, melodic, powerful, cinematic, and story‑driven, Siege Perilous is recommended for fans of Manowar, Battle Beast, Iron Maiden, Hammerfall, Sabaton, Blind Guardian, Rhapsody, Helloween, and Avantasia.

“Becoming the Dragon” will be available on March 27th, 2026, via Crunchtronic Records on all digital platforms, along with physical CD and Vinyl, plus merch at the following links:

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

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/artist/7LbZQwXnTZE0nv3s8aDaSQ

Music Video – Becoming The Dragon – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nzbb6lX-BhM

Music Video – As the Dragon Falls ft. Fabio Lione – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzMIMvm4wvY

In additional news, Siege Perilous will also mark the launch of their debut concept album, “Becoming The Dragon,” with a release show in Greeley, CO on April 4th at the Moxi Theater, joined by Starwraith and Wicked Vixen. Full details are available at https://siegemetal.com/album-release-show-april-4-moxi-theater.

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

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

-30-

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

“With ‘Becoming The Dragon’, Siege Perilous proves that they are ready for the bigger stage. For fans of Wind Rose, Hammerfall, Sabaton, Blind Guardian, and Iron Maiden, this is a must. This is power metal with heart, brains, and a sword in hand.” – Musika

“Becoming The Dragon is an ambitious work that combines epic heavy metal with orchestral elements. Siege Perilous show talent in songwriting and variety of arrangements… The mix of powerful vocals, triple guitar riffing and orchestral interjections makes the album interesting for fans of epic metal,” – MetalUnderground.at

““It’s certainly not a lack of ambition, this is a band that clearly sees itself as the natural successors to the true greats of fantasy-based power metal… Guest Fabio Lione… absolutely lays waste to all around him in the role of ‘The Dragon’ on As The Dragon Falls…. They deserve the highest praise for their commitment to the cause if nothing else.” – Sentinel Daily

“The 10 tracks keep you on the edge of your seat and even feature a collaboration with Fabio Lione, who deserves to be praised in every way… An album to enjoy!” – Nada Hay Bajo El Sol

“It gives me great pleasure to tell you that Creation’s Call is a blast. Siege Perilous has succeeded in creating what I would call Epic Power Metal for the Working Man. They don’t waste your time with overlong symphonic interludes between tracks, melodramatic narration, or overproduction that tests the limits of your sanity. The band gets right to the point and pulls you into their epic tales of heroic daring immediately. This is a nice breath of fresh air and if this EP is anything to go by, Siege Perilous has a great future ahead of them. Yes, this could be considered power metal but the no-nonsense approach and urgency to the songwriting makes this release absolutely worth checking out for those of us in the NWOTHM scene. Plus, it’s really just a lot of fun. This one is highly recommended. THENWOTHM SCORE: 9/10” – The NWOTHM

“‘Creation’s Call’ never gets boring, even on Heavy Rotation. Five gifted musicians have succeeded in creating a varied EP. The twin guitar solos are convincing the whole time. It’s just a shame that it ends after twenty-one minutes. It makes you wish for a full-length album. And, of course, a thrilling live performance. 9.3/10” – Metalheads Forever Magazine

“solid power metal style that should satiate any LARP-attendees or Dungeons and Dragons mavens. Keep an eye on this quintet – wield thy sword as they lead the battle charge for more quality power metal from the states. 8/10” – Dead Rhetoric

“There are any number of quality bands like Siege Perilous active right now but the style is popular (and I love it) and these guys are as decent as the next similar act. They lean more the Metal side of the equation using the folk and orchestral moments as flavour, not the main style. CREATION’S CALL is a fine effort and I could easily see them on tour with Brothers Of Metal, All For Metal, Fellowship and other costumed Metal heroes. Worth checking out!” 4/5 – Metal Rules

–
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
Instagram @AsherMedia
Tweet @AsherMedia

Page 7 of 517

Asher Media Relations Tweets

Tweets by AsherMedia

Asher Media Email Subscription

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address:

Join 2,164 other subscribers