Category: Music News

0 Rockshots Records – Enter “Beyond The Darkness Portal” With Brazil’s GLORIA PERPETUA And Their Debut Album “The Darkside We Wanna Hide” Out Aug 2024

June 26, 2024
by Asher
· Gloria Perpetua (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 26, 2024

Enter “Beyond The Darkness Portal” With Brazil’s GLORIA PERPETUA

Debut Album “The Darkside We Wanna Hide” Out Aug 2024 via Rockshots Records

Rockshots Records is thrilled to announce the signing of Gloria Perpetua for the release of their debut album, “The Darkside We Wanna Hide”. Set to make waves in the heavy metal scene, this first full-length features ten powerful tracks and showcases collaborations with renowned musicians from diverse backgrounds, including Timo Tolkki (ex-Stratovarius), Vitor Rodrigues (Native Blood, Tribal Scream, Torture Squad), Luis Mariutti (Sinistra, Shaman, Angra, Firebox), João Noleto, Vitor Veiga (Aquaria, Endless), Guilherme Hirose (NorthTale, Traumer), Marcelo Kalunga (solo), and Oruam (Deadly Fate).

Gloria Perpetua hails from the Amazon rainforest region in Brazil, an area often overlooked in the heavy metal circuit. Despite the challenges, the band is determined to stand out and make an impact. Their sound is best described as heavy, fast, and epic. The album blends diverse influences, appealing to both traditional metal fans and power metal enthusiasts with a killer thrash metal finale that’s sure to please.

Influenced by bands like Blind Guardian, Iced Earth, Helloween, Stratovarius, and Accept, Gloria Perpetua’s music offers a thrilling mix of Heavy and Power Metal. Their lyrics focus on themes of self-responsibility, positive change, and fighting for a better world.

“The Darkside We Wanna Hide” is set to be released on CD on August 30th, 2024 from Rockshots Records.
https://bit.ly/GloriaPerpetuaCD

Listen to their latest single “Beyond The Darkness Portal” can be heard at the following links:

Spotify – https://sptfy.com/R0rL

YouTube – https://youtu.be/uvz4LYXGnO8

Track Listing:
1. Let There Be Darkness (Daniel Fuchshuber)
2. Beyond The Darkness Portal (Daniel Fuchshuber feat. Luís Mariutti, Christian Passos, Raphael Dantas)
3. Have You Forsaken The Cross? (Daniel Fuchshuber feat Marcelo Kalunga)
4. Mothers of Jerusalem (Daniel Fuchshuber)
5. The Angels Are Calling (Daniel Fuchshuber feat.Vitor Veiga)
6. The Rape of Gaia (Daniel Fuchshuber feat. Guilherme Hirose)
7. The Architect (Daniel Fuchshuber feat. Timo Tolkki & Vitor Veiga)
8. The Key of Life (Rogério Byron)
9. The Way of a Warrior (Rogério Byron feat. João Noleto)
10. The Sick Cycle To The Death (Daniel Fuchshuber feat. Vitor Rodrigues)

More info: www.Rockshots.eu | https://www.instagram.com/gloriaperpetuametal

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0 Canada’s PRISONER Unleashes Anthemic Thrash Single “Skies are Blackened” Off New EP “House of Cards” Out Aug 2024

June 26, 2024
by Asher
· Music News · Prisoner

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 26, 2024

Canada’s PRISONER Unleashes Anthemic Thrash Single “Skies are Blackened”

New EP “House of Cards” Out Aug 2024

L-R – Murray Emery (Guitar/Vocals), Karl Pflug (Drums), Jeremy Hartmann (Guitar), Trevor MacDonald (Bass)

Photo Credit – Mikayla Loschuk

High-energy Canadian heavy metallers Prisoner is thrilled to announce the release of their electrifying new single “Skies are Blackened” from their eagerly awaited EP “House of Cards”, which is set to drop on August 21, 2024. Known for their hard-hitting riffs and unmistakably tight grooves, Prisoner continues to push the boundaries of modern rock music. The comment on the single:

“It’s a hard-hitting, in-your-face hard rock/metal track rooted in thrash metal influence. Its upbeat tempo and high-energy rhythm drive the listener into the anthemic chorus topped with soaring high vocals. Lyrically it speaks on world ideals and how we interact with one another in society under a scoped direction created by the upper echelon of people running our world.”

The creation of “House of Cards” reflects the band’s dynamic journey, with the current lineup forming during the recording process. Founded in Calgary, Alberta in 2020, Prisoner draws from classic/hard rock, heavy metal, and blues to create a sound that is both rooted in tradition and refreshingly modern. The band, comprising frontman Murray Emery, guitarist Jeremy Hartmann, bassist Trevor Macdonald, and drummer Karl Pflug, delivers the ultimate hard rock experience, combining their individual talents to produce music that resonates deeply with audiences.

“House of Cards” is a conglomeration of music with multiple elements from varying sub-genres, bridging the gap between emotion and life experience. The single and the album are a must-listen for anyone interested in modern rock and heavy metal that pays homage to its predecessors from the 70s-2000s, especially fans of Black Sabbath, Megadeth, Judas Priest, Metallica, and AC/DC.

Listen to “Skies are Blackened” at the following links:

Youtube – https://youtu.be/U9b-hZqAdQ0

Spotify – https://sptfy.com/R01a

EP Band Lineup:
Murray Emery (Vocals/Guitar)
Jeremy Hartmann (Guitar)
Trevor MacDonald(Bass)
Wes Bartram (Drums)
Karl Pflug (Drums)

More info: https://prisonerband.ca

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0 Newfoundland Duo ARTACH Put A Black Metal Tinge On Industrial w/ New Video “Frozen Factory” Off EP “Sgrios” Out July 2024

June 26, 2024
by Asher
· Artach · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 26, 2024

Newfoundland Duo ARTACH Put A Black Metal Tinge On Industrial w/ New Video “Frozen Factory”

New EP “Sgrios” Out July 2024

From the frost-bitten depths of Newfoundland, Canada, black metal duo ARTACH return this summer to present their experimental side with their latest EP “Sgrios” out this July 2024, which will later be followed by a third full-length this coming Fall (to be released on vinyl via Adirondack Black Mass), and will once again feature their signature sound.

The upcoming EP “Sgrios” might surprise some listeners as the band took on an experimental direction to incorporate more industrial metal sounds. Bands like Rammstein, Fear Factory, and Pain for example. However, it’s still them and still has all the elements from their previous releases.

For the “Sgrios” EP, the black metal spin on industrial metal is a mash of styles that the duo hadn’t heard much of and felt was something fresh and original.

“Not a ton of Black Metal bands will have Rammstein-esque synth guitar sounds, tremolo-picked riffs, and harsh black metal vocals. We talked about doing this “industrial-styled” 4 song EP to keep active and experiment ahead of the release of our 3rd full-length in the fall of 2024. At first, we thought about calling it a different project name, but quickly realized we could and would make it close enough to the Artach style to keep the name. You will hear industrial metal through the Artach blackened-thrash lens.” adds Sruthán (Guitar/Bass).

Lyrically, the topics explored on the “Sgrios” EP cover technology, apocalyptic themes, and some tongue-in-cheek suggestive topics (‘Sgrios” translates to English as destroy, ruin, ravage, annihilate, etc.). The “Sgrios” cover artwork has the duo in robot form in a frozen industrial wasteland. It fits with the lyrical topics for the EP perfectly.

Today, the band shares their lead single off the EP entitled “Frozen Factory”, a track about environmental collapse due to greed.

“We chose this one as it serves as a bridge between what you’ve come to know Artach for and the other songs on the EP. It was the last song written for this EP. When we were doing the others, which had more synth-sounding guitars etc, we thought we needed something heavier so taking inspiration from some bands like Fear Factory, etc we crafted an Artach take on that side of industrial metal.” says Sruthán (Guitar/Bass)

Watch and listen to “Frozen Factory” via its lyric video at https://youtu.be/F9RPXhmFxI8

Due out on July 6th, 2024, “Sgrios” is available for pre-order at https://artach.bandcamp.com

Track Listing
1. Frozen Factory – 3:00
2. The Black Hole – 3:32
3. Super-Cybernetic – 3:18
4. Atomic Cabaret – 3:04
EP Length: 12:55

EP Credits:
All songs performed, written, produced, mixed and mastered by Artach.
Album cover art by Inneal and Artach.

Artach are:
Fíochmhar: Drums/Vocals
Sruthán: Guitar/Bass

For more info:
Facebook.com/ArtachBlackMetal
Instagram.com/ArtachBlackMetal

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“With the jagged band name and bleak setting you can look upon the cover and get a taste of what’s in store, then you add in the hooded man with the sword and your ideas may be subverted, perhaps not. This is the real genius of Artach. They are making music that crosses genres; a bit of black metal, death metal, old school horns up fists of air grabbing metal as well.” – Killchain (2021: Sworn to Avenge)

“The song (She Gathers Leaves) is a thrill-ride, but also reveals elements of gothic witchiness. The raw vocals are caught up in a paroxysm of fierce, crazed adoration, venting cold-blooded roars as well as braying, throat-stripping howls and cut-throat screams. The full-throttle drumming is tumultuous, a changing array that hammers, gallops, rocks, thunders, and blasts. Urgently rising chords provide a recurring theme, surrounded by flame-throwing riffs that dart, pulsate, and spasm, drawing on elements of thrash and classic heavy metal as well as black metal. Ecstatically swirling leads further add to the wildness of the song. A mood of mystery does surface in the track’s brief intro, and that mood surfaces again in the song’s back half, leading into a necromantic guitar solo that takes flight in scintillating fashion.” – No Clean Singing (2021: Sworn to Avenge)

“check out Artach for a truly epic journey into the wildernesses that populate the dark fantasy land conjured through their excellent music. This sophomore album tells me that this is a band that will be releasing much good material for years to come and will soon be headlining the epic black metal stages or charts both online and at festivals. An excellent job all round.” – Metal Rules (2021: Sworn to Avenge)

“”Sworn to Avenge is a mind-assaulting record… You’ll hear the influences of classic black metal bands like Venom, early-Bathory as well as elements of the second wave; Immortal, Darkthrone etc. Ugly and uninviting stuff but very satisfying if you enjoy the gloomier side of metal… It’s a mammoth listen and does take its toll, but the array of ideas that Artach showcase does keep things interesting. An hour slips by, the cold has sunk deep into the bones and you’ll be left wondering if you’ll ever be warm again.” – Games, Brrraaains And A Head-Banging Life (2021: Sworn to Avenge)

“Very melodic black metal, yet aggressive and heavy with undeniable influences from plain old straightforward heavy metal, so while things are definitely “black metal”, there’s a lot of discipline at play and this is definitely not your average raw, chaotic black metal. There’s order to the chaos on Sworn to Avenge, but that doesn’t prevent it from being aggressive and sometimes kind of depressing and melancholic despite not descending into the slower playing usually associated with those stylings. It’s a rollercoaster of “fuck yeah!” and “kill me now” (in sort of a good way).” – The Metal Crypt (2021: Sworn to Avenge)
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0 Rockshots Records – Phoenix’s JUPITER CYCLOPS’ New Music Video Transports You “Between Worlds” Off New Album “Age of the UFOnaut” Out July 2024

June 25, 2024
by Asher
· Jupiter Cyclops (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 25, 2024

JUPITER CYCLOPS’ New Music Video Transports You “Between Worlds”

New Album “Age of the UFOnaut” Out July 2024

Set to release their debut album “Age Of The UFOnaut” this coming July 2024 on Rockshots Records, Phoenix, AZ’s Jupiter Cyclops featuring scene veterans Aaron Peltz (Downthesun, On a Pale Horse), guitarist Dustin Lyon (Opiate for the Masses), bassist Jake Melius (Big Wheel Stunt Show), and drummer Kyle Eades (Old Fashion Assassin) is an electrifying blend of energy, rockin riffs, catchy powerful vocal melodies, and contagious grooves. Influenced by classic rock and NWOBHM, this album is for fans of Clutch, Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, and more. If you’re into UFOs, interstellar demons, and exploring the hidden parts of your mind, this is the album for you!

Today, get carried away by the battering guitar riffs of Jupiter Cyclops as they present their latest music video for the second single “Between Worlds”. It will transport you to another musical plateau with its groovy rock n’ roll and 70’s proto-metal.

Watch the music video below.

VIDEO – https://youtu.be/UOTiuhfSYLk

LISTEN – https://lnk.to/8i66himt

“Age Of The UFOnaut” is due out on July 19th, 2024, and available for pre-order at https://bit.ly/JupiterCyclopsCD

Previous Single:

“UFOnaut”
LISTEN – https://lnk.to/UFOnaut

VIDEO – https://youtu.be/PK0LmBZJeIc

Track Listing:
1. UFOnaut – 4:55
2. Between Worlds – 5:26
3. Sinful Ways – 5:10
4. Doomed – 5:47
5. Down From the Inside – 3:49
6. Chemical Voodoo – 5:23
7. Way Down Below – 5:58
8. Lumerian Nights – 4:21
Album Length: 40:49

JUPITER CYCLOPS are:
Dustin Lyon: Guitar
Aaron Peltz: Vocals
Jake Melius: Bass
Kyle Eades: Drums

More info: https://www.rockshots.eu | https://www.facebook.com/JupiterCyclopsArizona

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0 PARADISE IN FLAMES Forges Brazilian Folk With Symphonic Black/Death Metal In Music Video “Black Wings” From New Album “Blindness” Out Now!

June 25, 2024
by Asher
· Music News · Paradise In Flames

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 25, 2024

PARADISE IN FLAMES Forges Brazilian Folk With Symphonic Black/Death Metal In Music Video “Black Wings”

New Album “Blindness” Out Now!

Since 2003, Brazil’s Paradise In Flames has been shattering boundaries and spreading its identity-filled sound infused with blazing notes of pure hatred to audiences far and wide. Their latest concept album “Blindness” is out now, complemented with a music video for the single “Black Wings”. The single mixes Brazilian folk elements with a direct reference to forró (regional Brazilian musical style). It rescues the pre-epidemic period of history, presenting the protagonist: Black Wings and her life story.

Watch the music video for “Black Wings” at https://youtu.be/BCSj1TF7YI4

Coined as extreme philosophical symphonic protester metal, they have been honing their identity since their 2021 album “Act One” and have matured and improved since then, intertwining Brazilian bossa nova, death metal, and black metal.

“Blindness” tells the story of a philosophical work that portrays religion as a psychological illness, illustrating how men become blind in the pursuit of power. Lyrically, the songs revolve around a single plot inspired by the book by Jose Saramago. The musical structure creates an operatic scenario, where characters interact within a symphonic plot characterized by rapid pace and melodious themes. It is recommended for fans of Satyricon, Dark Funeral, and Batushka.

“This album proved to be the most challenging of our career, as it required a strong correlation between the music and lyrics. The concept was to have one set of lyrics for all 11 tracks, ensuring each song had a logical sequence while collectively creating an engaging atmosphere to captivate the listener. We believe that we successfully achieved our objectives with this album. In the physical CD and LP versions, listeners will be able to enjoy following along with the lyrics in hand, allowing them to seamlessly experience the album’s narrative in its entirety.” adds the band.

“Blindness” was released on June 14, 2024, and is available from Xaninho Discos and Demoncratic Records.

Online Store – https://paradiseinflames.loja2.com.br/

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

Spotify – https://sptfy.com/QZRx

Track Listing:
1. Desolate World (1:00)
2. Concerto No.6 in C Minor, Cold Spring (3:37)
3. Black Wings ( 4:00)
4. Reasons To Not Believe (3:32)
5. I Feel The Plague (4:17)
6. The Cure (3:13)
7. The Priest (3:26)
8. Endless Night Battle (4:18)
9. War Sonata (3:28)
10. Age Of Death (4:15)
11. Angels & Devils (3:52)
Album Length: 38:57

Upcoming Tour Dates:
Aug 6 – Porto Alegre, RS – Opiniao **
Aug 8 – Florianopolis, SC – Celula Showcase **
Aug 9 – Limeira, SP – Mirage **
Aug 10 – Sao Paulo, SP – Legends **
Aug 11 – Belo Horizonte, MG – Caverna Pub **
** dates w/ Batushka

More info: https://linktr.ee/paradiseinflames

-30-

“Check out the latest full album from Paradise in Flames, Blindness. It’s heavy and catchy.” – Decibel Magazine

“Telling part of the story of a philosophical work that portrays religion as a psychological illness, illustrating how men become blind in the pursuit of power, the incendiary Blindness, the band new offering by Santa Luzia/Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil-based Symphonic Black Metal band Paradise In Flames and the follow-up to their 2021 album Act One, will be a blast for anyone with an interest in Cradle of Filth, Dimmu Borgir, and Satyricon.” – The Headbanging Moose

“If you like Fleshgod Apocalypse, elements of Dimmu Borgir, and Cradle Of Filth, then PARADISE IN FLAMES may resonate with you… Created to tell the story of a philosophical work that portrays religion as a psychological illness and illustrating how men become blind in the pursuit of power, the entire album explodes as one giant symphonic/operatic scenario, with characters who interact with switches in pace and tempo.” – Female Fronted Power

““Concerto No.6 in C Minor, Cold Spring,” ventures forth on the platitude of time, a song that snarls and bites into the whirlwind of a creeping tide.” – The Median Man

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0 Decrepit Birth Force To Cancel ARMSTRONG METALFEST – Replacement Band To Be Announced – 2024 Lineup w/ THE BROWNING, EYE OF HORUS, ATRÆ BILIS, ARKAIK, BODYBOX and more!

June 24, 2024
by Asher
· Armstrong Metal Fest · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 24, 2024

Decrepit Birth Force To Cancel ARMSTRONG METALFEST – Replacement Band To Be Announced

2024 Lineup w/ THE BROWNING, EYE OF HORUS, ATRÆ BILIS, ARKAIK, BODYBOX, XUL and more!

July 12-13 – Armstrong, BC, Canada

Watch the official video recap of AMF 2019 here.
(video created by Mayne Brand Productions)

Armstrong MetalFest 2024 Spotify playlist Here.

Western Canada’s largest mountain mosh pit Armstrong MetalFest regrets to announce that Friday night, July 12th headliner Decrepit Birth must unfortunately retract from their performance due to a schedule conflict within the line-up. After numerous attempts to find a fill-in member, they are unable to perform on that date and have been forced to make that difficult decision. Armstrong MetalFest is currently working to secure a new Friday night headliner. Please follow the festival’s social media for updates.

This 14th annual gathering of metalheads, Armstrong MetalFest will once again witness a pilgrimage of extreme metal music fans for two days of unforgettable moshing, headbanging, and camping. From iconic headliners to promising newcomers, the 2024 lineup is set to showcase the best of diverse metal genres, ensuring an electrifying experience for all.

This year’s lineup held on July 12th and 13th at the Hassen Arena in Armstrong, BC will be headlined by Kansas City THE BROWNING who will be unleashing their unique eclectic blend of electronicore and deathcore. Also featured on this year’s two-day festival, dissonant and atmospheric Vancouver tech death metallers ATRÆ BILIS, and Orlando’s two-fisted two steppin’ double-wide aural assault squad BODYBOX. Returning to the festival, is the Okanagan’s very favourite Black Metallers XUL (Vernon, BC) and Edmonton death metallers EYE OF HORUS along with first-time performances from Vancouver twin brother duo OPAL IN SKY, San Francisco’s outside-the-box prog metallers CYBORG OCTOPUS, and the tech death fury of Riverside, CA’s ARKAIK among many more (full lineup listed below).

Festival weekend passes are on sale now at the following link: https://armstrongmetalfest.ca

(All tickets provide General Admission and grant access to the festival grounds, camping area, and arena from 9:00 AM on Friday, July 12, 2023, until 12:00 PM on Sunday, July 14, 2022. Free camping is included.)

“It’s one of the premier festivals of its kind in Canada, showcasing the biggest names in local, national, and international heavy metal music.” – Vancouver Sun

AMF 2024 Lineup:

(Friday Night Headliner TBA)
The Browning (Kansas City, MO)
Xul (Vernon, BC)
Opal In Sky (Vancouver, BC)
Cyborg Octopus (San Francisco, CA)
Eye Of Horus (Edmonton, AB)
Atrae Billis (Vancouver, BC)
Arkaik (Riverside, CA)
Bobybox (Orlando, FL)
Nott (Seattle, WA)
Dessiderium (Phoenix, AZ)
Odinfist (Armstrong, BC)
Misyrion (Vancouver, BC)
Death Machine (Kelowna, BC)
Satanic Tea Company (Calgary, AB)
Ravensun (Nanaimo, BC)
Crown Of Madness (Vancouver, BC)
Vaegon (Edmonton, AB)
Lynx (Calgary, AB)
Kelevra (Regina, SK)
Kings Rot (Calgary, AB)
Gregorious (Kamloops, BC)
Dendros (Kamloops, BC)
Thirteen Goats (Vancouver, Bc)
Anomalist (Prince George, BC
Burn It All (Kamloops, BC)
Augur (Kamloops, BC)

The 2023 edition of Armstrong MetalFest broke attendance records again with its eclectic earth-shaking lineup that featured 28 bands performing on the two-day festival that included headliners LA thrashers WARBRINGER, San Francisco tech-death giants FALLUJAH, festival alumni Spokane, WA’s ENTERPRISE EARTH, and Los Angeles’ THE ZENITH PASSAGE, along with Denver’s H.P. Lovecraft extreme metallers VALE OF PNATH, and Edmonton’s Juno award-winning heavy metal champions STRIKER.

Since 2009 (minus pause years 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid pandemic), West Metal Entertainment and Armstrong Metalfest have not only fostered the talent of hundreds of local bands, but have imported well-known, international acts to the quiet, little Canadian town of Armstrong, British Columbia.

Each year hundreds of metalheads from Canada and the USA descend into the picturesque Okanagan Valley and under the blistering sun, they spend three days camping, taking in as much metal over two days, participating in wrestling events, scavenger hunts, and catching up with their metal family.

The festival has seen such renowned headliners as Kataklysm, Cattle Decapitation, Archspire, Nekrogoblikon, Origin, Rivers of Nihil, and Beyond Creation as well as emerging artists from across North America. At the end of the revelry, the festival disappears without a trace, leaving the landscape as pristine as it has always been.

West Metal Entertainment is a non-profit society that not only puts on the Armstrong Metal Festival every year in Armstrong, B.C., it gives bands opportunities to play at different venues throughout the region including all-ages shows, to encourage musical passion in kids as well as adults.

Partners:
WCMFA
AlumaPro Welding & Fabrication Ltd
Vox and Hops
Rancho Vignola
Creative BC
Province of BC
Shepherds Hardware
Askews Foods
ACE Containers
Asher Media Relations
Staggs Head
Sunbelt Rentals
Bravewords
Absolute Underground Mag
Broken Neck Radio
V13
Metal-Rules
Ghost Cult Magazine
This Day In Metal
Valstar Electric
Voets

For more info:
Armstrongmetalfest.ca
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter

Festival Press Materials HERE.

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What the press is saying:

“Armstrong Metalfest brings aggressive music to the North Okanagan” – Global BC News

Kelowna Now: Armstrong Metal Festival Co-founder reflects on a decade of metal – Video Interview here.

CHBC – Global Okanagan: Metalheads celebrate a decade of gathering in Armstrong – Video Interview here.

Global Okanagan – Armstrong Metalfest brings aggressive music to the North Okanagan – Video here.

“In the past, metalheads had to travel to Germany to experience the rush of a big festival, such as Wacken Open Air. But local headbangers decided to bring that feeling home with Armstrong Metalfest.” – Vernon Morning Star

“Go Big or Stay at Home: Armstrong has that welcoming feeling for a rock show.” – The Valley Voice

“To witness such a gathering of talent is an absolute privilege, and for that fact alone, I will certainly be returning to Armstrong Metal Fest.” – Beatroute BC

“This festival is now going to be my yearly must-go-to event and if you’re a metal head that hasn’t attended or a curious metal voyeur, do yourself a favour and check it out, you will not regret it.” – Abort Mag

“The Armstrong Metalfest is one such event and has grown from its initial, humble beginnings seven years ago to be a regular mainstay, with its south-central BC location making for a popular summertime destination for fans and bands alike.” – Decibel Mag

Named one of the out-of-town music festivals worth the trip by The Vancouver Sun

“For metalheads, this is a great vacation where groups of all sizes can enjoy their favourite musical genre in a fun, energized environment. Not to mention, the camping!” – The Permanent Rain Press

“From farm to stadium: Armstrong Metal Fest’s humble beginnings” – Info News

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0 WACKEN METAL BATTLE USA Announces National Winner – CASCADE EFFECT – One Band To Conquer Them All & Play Wacken Open Air

June 24, 2024
by Asher
· Music News · Wacken Metal Battle USA

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 24, 2024

WACKEN METAL BATTLE USA Announces National Winner – CASCADE EFFECT

One Band To Conquer Them All & Play Wacken Open Air

Spotify – 2024 WMBU National Finalists Playlist – https://spoti.fi/4cbAEb8

One band to conquer them all! Down to the final five bands from across the country, the national final for Wacken Metal Battle USA was held this past Saturday, June 22nd in San Diego, CA at the Brick by Brick with regional winners Cascade Effect (San Diego), WarTroll (NorCal), Versipul (PNW), Prime Prophecy (East Coast), and Father Wolf (Texas).

Judged by an industry panel that included Rod Kukla (Silver Lining Music), Craig Goldy (Dio), Derek Engemann (Scour, Phil Anselmo and the Illegals, ex-Cattle Decapitation), and Patrick Stone (Adler’s Appetite, Budderside), the band that reigned the stage and proved themselves worthy of gracing the holy land of metal at Wacken Open Air in Germany is crowned 2024 champion, San Diego’s Cascade Effect.

“After the most successful wacken metal battle USA in its history, with a historic number of bands applying, we finally have a winner. Congratulations to the band Cascade Effect, their road to Wacken had one strong show after another and a final one that gave them a spot on the stage at the world-famous Wacken Open Air.” – Rod Kukla

“I want to thank all the promoters, bands, partners, and Jon Asher for putting in the hard work necessary to make this battle a success. Congratulations to Father Wolf, Versipul, WarTroll, Prime Prophecy, and Cascade Effect for putting on one of the best shows Wacken Metal Battle USA has ever seen. I wish the boys in Cascade Effect nothing but the best at WACKEN!” – Eric Dow

As this year’s crowned USA champion, Cascade Effect will now move on to perform as the only independent American band at the International Battle at Wacken Open Air (July 31st – August 3rd), one of the world’s most prestigious and largest metal festivals (Attendance of over 80,000 people in Wacken, Germany for over 30 years).

Cascade Effect joins the list of previous WMBU national winners, San Diego’s Fadrait (2023 – San Diego) Mythraeum (2022 – San Diego), Monarch (2019 – San Diego), Voices of Ruin (2018 – Anaheim) and Corpse Hoarder (2017 – Philadelphia).

2024 battles were hosted in the following cities: New York, NY, Clifton, NJ, Philadelphia, PA, Portland, OR, Seattle, WA, Bay Area, CA, Los Angeles, CA, Orange County, CA, Sacramento, CA, San Diego, CA, Austin, TX, Dallas, TX, El Paso, TX, Houston, TX, San Antonio, TX.

Wacken Battle Trailer Video – https://youtu.be/fjMugRXEc5g

For the last 5 years of battles (2017-2019, 2022, 2023), Wacken Metal Battle USA has hosted battles across the country to send one independent metal band to perform at the world’s largest metal festival Wacken Open Air in Wacken, Germany. 2019 saw the festival celebrate its 30th anniversary, but due to Covid, the 2020 and 2021 editions were both canceled. As the metal community regains its strength, Wacken Open Air 2024 will be the 33rd edition of the festival and will be held from July 31st – August 3rd. The 2024 event is already sold out with a line-up that includes Scorpions, Amon Amarth, Blind Guardian, In Extremo, Pain, Beast In Black, and many more. Details here.

Wacken Metal Battle USA is part of an international competition that sees bands from across the country battle each other for the chance to win their spot among 30 other countries’ champions, and represent the USA in an international battle of the bands at the world’s largest outdoor metal festival: Wacken Open Air. The battles have been hosted at the festival for over a decade and give independent bands the opportunity to showcase their talents to an international audience along with the chance to win multiple prizes.

How it works:
Participating cities will host qualifying rounds plus a city final organized by a local city concert promoter where one band will move forward to the American national final (date and city to be determined). The winner of the national final will move on to perform at the Wacken Open Air 2024 and compete against the winners of 29 other countries in a final global battle. All bands will be judged during battle rounds by respected local music industry representatives.

Rules for participation: https://metalbattleusa.com/rules/

Links:
Metal-Battle.com
MetalBattleUSA.com
Facebook.com/metalbattleusa
Twitter.com/MetalBattleUSA
Instagram.com/metalbattleusa

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0 ZEALED’s New Single “Divination” Is An Adrenaline Rush Of Black Metal And Deathcore

June 24, 2024
by Asher
· Music News · Zealed

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 24, 2024

ZEALED’s New Single “Divination” Is An Adrenaline Rush Of Black Metal And Deathcore

L-R – Christopher White (Vocals/Lyrics) | Christopher Marron (Instrumentals)

Photo Credit – Half Cab Studios

Ritalo, USA’s independent music project Zealed is thrilled to announce the release of their potent third single “Divination”. Known for their unique blend of symphonic black metal and melodic deathcore, Zealed‘s latest track promises an intense, fast, and brutally melodic experience that will draw in listeners. The band shares what people can expect:

“Musically it offers a thrilling experience with rapid tempo shifts, an abundance of riffs, and slow, but intricate breakdowns. Lyrically: Same with lyrics, it’s like someone slammed a bunch of energy drinks and destroyed what was left of a brutal song, in a good way!”

“Divination” was the second collaboration between instrumentalist Christopher Marron and vocalist Chris White on a track. They wanted to switch things up from their last single, yet maintain the same cohesive sound. This single is a key release leading up to Zealed’s forthcoming EP “Eschaton”. The EP will feature all of the band’s previous releases, meticulously remixed and remastered to ensure a consistent and powerful sound throughout. This collection will bring the Eschaton era story of Zealed to a close, setting the stage for the band to explore new musical directions in the future.

Zealed was founded in late 2019 by Marron as an instrumental side project aimed at exploring audio and recording production. The initial instrumental release garnered positive feedback, prompting Marron to elevate the project by incorporating a vocalist. This led to the inclusion of White, who brought his expertise in lyrics and vocals, thus transforming Zealed into the powerhouse duo it is today. Zealed is recommended for fans of Bleeding Through, Lorna Shore, and Chelsea Grin.

Watch and listen to the video for “Divination” via TheCirclePit at https://youtu.be/W5pKuQmA3Vg

Spotify – https://tinyurl.com/3u59jvmz

Bandcamp – https://zealed.bandcamp.com

More info: https://www.facebook.com/zealedmusic | https://instagram.com/zealedmusic | https://www.twitter.com/zealedmusic | https://www.tiktok.com/@zealedmusic

-30-

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0 Rockshots Records – Fantasy Metal WARLOCK A.D. – New Video “The Golden Showers of Prestønia” Off Sophomore Album “Book II: The Valley of Vâgené” Out Sept 2024

June 21, 2024
by Asher
· Music News · Warlock A.D. (Rockshots Records)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 21, 2024

Fantasy Metal WARLOCK A.D. – New Video “The Golden Showers of Prestønia”

Sophomore Album “Book II: The Valley of Vâgené” Out Sept 2024 via Rockshots Records

The time has come! 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐊 𝐀.𝐃.‘s sophomore album “Book II: The Valley of Vâgené” is set to be released on September 27th, 2024 from Rockshots Records.

Over two years in the making, this entry into the WarlocK A.D. saga is bigger, thicker, and more powerful than anything they have brought you before! The album is 12 tracks of interwoven musical storytelling implementing the use of motifs, themes, and callbacks. From the sweeping orchestral movements of “The Golden Showers of Prestønia” to the frantic folk metal flavorings of “Rothgar Warsong”, the album combines the sound and styles of various iterations of orchestra-led melodic metal – culminating in what feels like a fully-fledged D&D style epic told through the medium of a Heavy Metal Musical. Recommended for fans of Nanowar of Steel, Angus McSix, and Beast in Black, the quest to The Valley of Vâgené continues with the single “The Golden Showers of Prestønia”.

“The title is a clear double entendre, the single is a cautionary tale detailing the events that follow Whiteacre’s failure to heed the advice of the wise wizard Horatus – do not touch the water! One of the more traditional power metal style tracks on the album, the intensity of the track ebbs and flows as the danger of the forbidden waters becomes more and more apparent – leading to a frantic race against time for Ahriman Cullblade to save the endangered Nomad. This track was actually heavily inspired by the track “Burn” by Deep Purple – which also details the story of a dangerous female presence – something which can be heard especially in the song’s post-solo section. The track also evokes a traditional symphonic metal feel through the use of the duet vocals between Whiteacre and Uriña the Siren (as performed by Dani Bentham of Wailing Banshee).” adds the band.

Music Video – https://youtu.be/0aFOuV_81sM

Digital – https://lnk.to/OdJwLm

Album pre-order – https://bit.ly/WarlocKAD

Track Listing:
1. A Strange New World (That is not My Own)
2. The Valley of Vâgené
3. Nanum Imperium
4. The Golden Showers of Prestønia
5. By the Path of the Exiled
6. Rothgar Warsong
7. As One, We Stand!
8. Ancient Dragon of Storms Flüffir Mighty Guardian of Valley (Techno Wyrmhole)
9. The Sacred Spears of Brittanni
10. Stormbreather
11. The Sword of Cühm
12. The Rising Flames of the Eternal Golden Empire Rise

Band Members:
Cal Whittaker (As Whiteacre the Nomad) – Lead Vocals, Orchestral Composition/Programming
Michael Farmer (As Quinn Eilianther the Elven Prince) – Vocals, Bass Guitars
John Smith (As Horatus the Mushroom Wizard) – Backing Harsh Vocals, Guitars
Dan Cole (As Ahriman Cullblade the Shadow Assassin) – Programming, Guitars
Emperor Thorumm III – Phantom Drums

Additional Artists/voice cast:
Klara Wiliams – Æliána the Eternal (narrator)
Scot Evans – Rothgar Warsong AND Björnulfr the Beast-Slayer (voice)
Dani Bentham – Uriña the Siren (Voice and Singing)
Jade Marris – The Heavy Metal Battle Wench (Voice and singing)
Anna Rose – The Goddess Vâgené (Voice)

Credits:
Artwork by Ryvene James Dela Cruz
Band Photography/Videography by Hannah Price
Production by Cal Whittaker

More info: www.Rockshots.eu | https://www.theworldofwarlockad.co.uk

-30-

“it’s all about the banter, and their infectious sense of fun carries them through, and indeed us with them.” – Evermetal

“The fusion of theatricality, fantasy, and musical talent makes Warlock AD a standout act in the symphonic rock scene.” – Metal Planet Music

“Warlock A.D. play some legitimately decent heavy metal which is thoroughly enjoyable, but their live performances are truly something to behold.” – Metal Underground

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0 Montreal’s WORLD ON ALERT Stand Up To Authority In Progressive “Freedom In Disguise” Off Debut S/T EP Out End of June 2024

June 21, 2024
by Asher
· Music News · World On Alert

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 21, 2024

Montreal’s WORLD ON ALERT Stand Up To Authority In Progressive “Freedom In Disguise”

Debut EP Out June 28th ft. guests from MUTANK, CroMagnum, Ashes of Eden, Orchad, Void Within

Top L-R: John Vincelli (Vocals on War Inside) | Nick Amalfi (Guitar Solo on Freedom In Disguise) | Justyn Vynn (Vocals and Guitar Solos on Insecurities and Alone with My Thoughts) | Alex Walsh (All Rhythm and Lead Guitars, Guitar Solo on Freedom In Disguise)

Bottom L-R: Costa Skoulikas (Guitar Solos on They Came From the Pleiades and The War Inside) | Gino LaPosta (Bass, Keys, Programmed Drums) | Max Rex (Vocals on Freedom In Disguise)

Missing: Armen Apekian (Guitar Solo on The War Inside)

Photo Credit: Jonathan Senecal

World On Alert, from Montreal, Canada, is the brainchild of multi-instrumentalist Gino LaPosta, and excitedly they are announcing the release of the compelling new single “Freedom in Disguise”, which is the second introduction to the debut self-titled EP that is coming out on June 28, 2024. This track features the exceptional talents of Max Rex (CroMagnum), and Nick Amalfi who join LaPosta and guitarist Alex Walsh. LaPosta comments on the single:

“Musically, this one is a heavy track with a soft middle that builds up to the heavy end again. You can hear some proggy Rush/Dream Theater/Tool vibes in there. Lyrically it is about standing up to the elites trying to control our lives and disguising it in freedom.”

LaPosta explains that this work is essentially a solo effort with some help from talented friends and Walsh’s guitar work on “Freedom in Disguise” adds a distinct energy and depth to the track. His contributions, along with the dynamic vocals from Rex and Amalfi, make this single a standout piece in the upcoming EP.

An act that had risen during the pandemic, LaPosta found solace in his studio, crafting riffs and lyrics. Collaborating with friends and family on this recording was a deeply fulfilling experience for him and it reflects their collective effort and synergy. It is recommended for fans of Rush, Tool, and Fates Warning.

Watch and listen to the lyric video for “Freedom in Disguise” at https://youtu.be/RZ454y9gEVk

Due out on June 28, 2024, World on Alert‘s self-titled EP is available for pre-order at https://worldonalert.bandcamp.com.

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3V9Imvl

Music Video – “Insecurities” – https://youtu.be/6JAhRc5O8XE

Track Listing:
1. Freedom In Disguise ft. Max Rex (CroMagnum), Nick Amalfi, Alex Walsh (6:10)
2. Insecurities ft. Justyn Vynn (Orchad), Alex Walsh (6:00)
3. They Came From the Pleiades ft. Costa Skoulikas (Mutank), Alex Walsh (8:34)
4. Alone With My Thoughts ft. Justyn Vynn (Orchad), Alex Walsh (4:32)
5. The War Inside ft. John Vincelli (Void Within), Costa Skoulikas (Mutank), Armen Apekian (Ashes Of Eden), Alex Walsh (5:38)
EP Length: 30:54

More info: Instagram.com/world.on.alert | Facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555752466553 |Twitter.com/WorldOnAlertMtl

-30-

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