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Category: Nomad

0 Canada’s NOMAD Shares Drum & Vocal Playthrough “Rise in the Fall” Off New Album “The Mountain”

  • April 27, 2023
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Nomad

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 27, 2023

​

Canada’s NOMAD Shares Drum & Vocal Playthrough “Rise in the Fall” Off New Album “The Mountain”

Mastered by Christian Donaldson (Cryptopsy)

Top L-R – Matt Johnstone (Guitar/Vocals), Bretton Melanson, (Drums/Vocals)

Bottom – L-R Jeff Mabb (Guitar/Vocals), Josh MacDonald (Bass)

Photo Credit – Tegan Hoffmann

Unleashing their debut album “The Mountain” this past March, Canada’s Nomad, hailing from the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, offer up a dynamic, progressive death metal. Having three vocalists creates a unique sound that is powerful, complex, and full-bodied. They have solidified their name in the local scene with festival appearances and supporting big-name acts and their debut album “The Mountain” has been ear worming its way to metal fans around the world.

Today, drummer Bretton Melanson shares his drum and vocal playthrough for the track “Rise in the Fall” via its premiere on TechnicalMusicReview HERE.

“The title for this track came first, and I thought “Gee, that sounds like the Russian revolution”, one regime rising while the previous one falls, and it happens in the fall… not that deep of a double meaning, but it is one nonetheless. Wish I had written this in high school, would have upped my mark in history class, and I probably would have got top marks in the school (darn second place). Yes I am a huge nerd.” adds Melanson.

“The Mountain” is a nine-track album mixed by Bretton Melanson, mastered by Christian Donaldson, and the album artwork was done by Angela Grimmuza. Throughout the album, Nomad confronts personal and societal issues, explores sci-fi worlds, and questions authority. They seamlessly go from soft, clean ballad parts to raging, full-throttle death metal chaos. Drum and guitar solos abound, and the diversity in the vocal styles makes “The Mountain” an exciting and dynamic musical adventure. A melting pot of different styles and eras, Nomad is recommended for fans of Devildriver, Gojira, and Lamb of God.

“The Mountain” was released on March 3, 2023, and is available on Nomadbc.bandcamp.com (CD, Digital), Spotify​.

Track Listing:​
1. Burning Alive (4:30)
2. Haunted (6:00)
3. Revolution (6:05)
4. Relentless (6:09)
5. A Lonely Wanderer (5:08)
6. Blood Moon (9:40)
7. Rise in the Fall (6:20)
8. Processor (6:56)
9. Choke (8:52)
Album Length: 59:38

Album Credits:​
– All songs written and performed by Nomad.
– Additional writing contributions by past members:
Kasey Klassen
Lorne Valliers
Dylan Heska
Justin Kleinsasser
– Mixed by Bretton Melanson
– Mastered by Christian Donaldson
– Album Artwork by: Angela Grimmuza/ Art Of Grimmuza
– MAPL – Canadian Content

Album and Live lineup:​
Bretton Melanson: Drums/Vocals
Matt Johnstone: Guitar/Vocals
Jeff Mabb: Guitar/Vocals
Josh MacDonald: Bass

For more info: Facebook.com/nomadmetal | Instagram.com/nomadbandbc​

About: Nomad is a dynamic, progressive death metal band from the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Canada and consists of drummer/vocalist Bretton Melanson; guitarist/vocalist Matt Johnstone; guitarist/vocalist Jeff Mabb; plus bassist Josh MacDonald. Kickstarted by Johnstone who was looking for an outlet, he approached Melanson and since the material felt right and with their previous history playing together, the ball was rolling. Over a few years, there was a lineup flux, with each additional leaving their mark on the material. Ultimately, they then recruited Mabb as a second guitarist and MacDonald on bass, and working collaboratively, they weave their melodic, groovy death metal.

Looking to avoid going too crazy on the violence and gore tropes that are quite prominent in metal music, they tend to tell stories based on fictional characters, historical events, science fiction, and astrophysics. Each member adds their own flair to the songs, imprinting their distinct influences.

When they hit the stage, the audience is greeted by multiple vocalists that deliver a massive wall of layered sound, integrated sound effects, and a well-thought-out visual element. They played Canada’s prominent Armstrong Metalfest in 2016-2019 and performed alongside bands such as Kataklysm, Origin, Soulfly, and Alestorm. They are releasing their debut album “The Mountain” in 2023.

– 30 –

“Scary, violent and good” – Frequence Metal

““Revolution” takes no time at all to seize attention. The drums clatter and boom with immediately thrilling effect, and around those convulsive strikes the guitars slowly meander and ring in a beguiling harmony. The vocals have their own interesting harmony but flare into rabid, throat-cutting growls. That slithering opening melody, warmed by the bass, reappears and becomes a swelling ear-worm — but with a pause the song transforms into a hulking and jolting brute. The guitars jitter and whine, and the vocals change into goblin-like snarls, creating a feeling of sinister menace, which becomes even more sinister thanks to an exotically swaying and swirling guitar solo whose piercing tones are somehow inviting as well as increasingly crazed. Maniac howls, ugly gurgling expulsions, and berserk screams vent the lyrics with their own groove, while the band as a whole continue on with their nasty but highly headbangable beating.” – No Clean Singing​
​
​“The Mountain is a smorgasbord of ideas delivered with unrelenting energy and creativity. It’s not the kind of metal that questions the very foundation of the genre like a Zeal & Ardor would, but it’s really questioning the notion of how many influences a band can integrate into its core identity. This record challenged me and tested my boundaries as a metal fan. This was not exactly my comfort zone as I’m usually more of an atmospheric guy at heart, but it’s not meant to make you feel comfortable. The Mountain is meant to explore the gaps between the past and the present, the harsh and the melodic and the catchy and the complex. New ideas are never easy and they should never be.” – Vox & Hops​
​
​“Nomad clearly have a higher purpose musically than just severing eardrums, and the album is an evolution in real-time. While the album has no concrete, overarching story to tell, each song is placed in the order that it was written. The time between opener “Burning Alive” and closer “Choke” puts the wide distance the group has creatively gone through in perspective. While The Mountain starts and ends in a rage, it does so in a different manner. Early on, the groove is strong, but by the latter third of the album, a more technical front is taken. In-between that, the trio of vocalists in the band employ everything from raspy wails to low grunts to melodic singing.” – Heavy Music Headquarters​
​
​“Listeners can expect diversity in approach with a meld of groovy death meets modern and semi-progressive influences in terms of hooks and heaviness across these nine tracks – a balancing act that has mixed results… Almost clocking in at an hour, The Mountain has certain appeal for those who love the aggression of modern, progressive groove-oriented metal” – Dead Rhetoric​
​
​“what is undeniable is that NOMAD plays the card of singularity, and with a disarming naturalness.” – MetalNews.fr​
​
​“for a brand new band coming from a fairly remote area, NOMAD has really hooked my interest and in the future, this might become an extremely potent band.” – Wormwood Chronicles​
​
​“they’re really a great band, as shown on songs as “Burning Alive” (where a classic Death/Thrash Metal appeal is clear, with many contrasts between grunts and shrieks, and many hooking parts), “Haunted” (a surprising song, filled with excellent arrangements and surprising elements, as the excellent and technical bass playing and clean chords parts, and tribal percussive moments), “Revolution” (a true and Progressive, with shifts between aggressive and introspective moments with clean vocals), “A Lonely Wanderer” (this one is more aggressive than experimental, abusing of the weight due a very good and technical playing of the drums, and what lovely Progressive melodies can be heard), “Blood Moon” (this one is essentially a Progressive Death Metal song based on a fine technical appeal and some melancholic touches, but always being brutal and aggressive, with excellent guitar parts and themes), and “Choke”. The others ones are equally excellent, so dive into this album without fears (and the lyrics are excellent, staying away from the usual themes based on ‘gore’ and ‘satan’ for some fictional characters, historical events, science fiction, and even Astrophysics)” – Metal Temple​
—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780 | jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations | Instagram @AsherMedia | Tweet @AsherMedia
(Rockshots Records, Extreme Metal Music, Armstrong MF, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Le FestEvil)

0 Hails Horns \m/\m/ Thank You Canadian MDs and DJs for the airplay love! !earshot The National Loud Chart For the Week Ending: Tuesday, April 18, 2023 #6 – Nomad – The Mountain #10 – Cydemind – The Descent

  • April 20, 2023
  • by Asher
  • · Cydemind · Nomad

Hails Horns \m/\m/
Thank You Canadian MDs and DJs for the airplay love!

!earshot The National Loud Chart For the Week Ending: Tuesday, April 18, 2023
#6 – Nomad – The Mountain
#10 – Cydemind – The Descent
https://earshot-online.com/charts/index.cfm?intChartTypeID=106&dWeekOfID=2023-04-18

0 Canada’s NOMAD Now Streaming Dynamic Debut Progressive Death Metal Album “The Mountain” – Mastered by Christian Donaldson (Cryptopsy)

  • March 2, 2023
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Nomad

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 2, 2023

 

Canada’s NOMAD Now Streaming Dynamic Debut Progressive Death Metal Album “The Mountain”

Mastered by Christian Donaldson (Cryptopsy)

L-R – Josh MacDonald (Bass), Matt Johnstone (Guitar/Vocals), Bretton Melanson, (Drums/Vocals), Jeff Mabb (Guitar/Vocals)
Photo Credit – Chris Geistlinger

Hailing from Canada’s Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Nomad is a dynamic, progressive death metal band consisting of drummer/vocalist Bretton Melanson; guitarist/vocalist Matt Johnstone; guitarist/vocalist Jeff Mabb; and bassist Josh MacDonald. Having three vocalists creates a unique sound that is powerful, complex, and full-bodied. They have solidified their name in the local scene with festival appearances and supporting big-name acts and now they are stoked to have their debut album “The Mountain” ready for ears around the world. They share their excitement for the release:

“This has been a long time coming. After so many external factors holding us back, we are so happy to finally get this out to the world, and start crushing audiences again. I think we have a more “Rural” feel than most metal bands. The music feels like being in nature, camping, etc. Johnstone’s old band called themselves “Bush Metal” and that kind of feeling came over.”

Throughout the album, they confront personal and societal issues, explore sci-fi worlds and question authority. The seamlessly go from soft, clean ballad parts to raging, full-throttle death metal chaos. Drum and guitar solos abound, and the diversity in the vocal styles makes “The Mountain” an exciting and dynamic musical adventure.

The nine-track album was mixed by Bretton Melanson, mastered by Christian Donaldson and the album artwork was done by Angela Grimmuza. A melting pot of different styles and eras, Nomad is recommended for fans of Devildriver, Gojira, and Lamb of God.

“The Mountain” is due out on March 3, 2023, and can be heard in full before it officially drops via its album stream premiere on TheProgSpace HERE.

Album pre-order (CD, Digital) – Nomadbc.bandcamp.com​

Track Listing:​
1. Burning Alive (4:30)
2. Haunted (6:00)
3. Revolution (6:05)
4. Relentless (6:09)
5. A Lonely Wanderer (5:08)
6. Blood Moon (9:40)
7. Rise in the Fall (6:20)
8. Processor (6:56)
9. Choke (8:52)
Album Length: 59:38

Album Credits:​
– All songs written and performed by Nomad.
– Additional writing contributions by past members:
Kasey Klassen
Lorne Valliers
Dylan Heska
Justin Kleinsasser
– Mixed by Bretton Melanson
– Mastered by Christian Donaldson
– Album Artwork by: Angela Grimmuza/ Art Of Grimmuza
– MAPL – Canadian Content

Album and Live lineup:​
Bretton Melanson: Drums/Vocals
Matt Johnstone: Guitar/Vocals
Jeff Mabb: Guitar/Vocals
Josh MacDonald: Bass

For more info: Facebook.com/nomadmetal | Instagram.com/nomadbandbc​

About: Nomad is a dynamic, progressive death metal band from the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Canada and consists of drummer/vocalist Bretton Melanson; guitarist/vocalist Matt Johnstone; guitarist/vocalist Jeff Mabb; plus bassist Josh MacDonald. Kickstarted by Johnstone who was looking for an outlet, he approached Melanson and since the material felt right and with their previous history playing together, the ball was rolling. Over a few years, there was a lineup flux, with each additional leaving their mark on the material. Ultimately, they then recruited Mabb as a second guitarist and MacDonald on bass, and working collaboratively, they weave their melodic, groovy death metal.

Looking to avoid going too crazy on the violence and gore tropes that are quite prominent in metal music, they tend to tell stories based on fictional characters, historical events, science fiction, and astrophysics. Each member adds their own flair to the songs, imprinting their distinct influences.

When they hit the stage, the audience is greeted by multiple vocalists that deliver a massive wall of layered sound, integrated sound effects, and a well-thought-out visual element. They played Canada’s prominent Armstrong Metalfest in 2016-2019 and performed alongside bands such as Kataklysm, Origin, Soulfly, and Alestorm. They are releasing their debut album “The Mountain” in 2023.

– 30 –

“Scary, violent and good” – Frequence Metal

““Revolution” takes no time at all to seize attention. The drums clatter and boom with immediately thrilling effect, and around those convulsive strikes the guitars slowly meander and ring in a beguiling harmony. The vocals have their own interesting harmony but flare into rabid, throat-cutting growls. That slithering opening melody, warmed by the bass, reappears and becomes a swelling ear-worm — but with a pause the song transforms into a hulking and jolting brute. The guitars jitter and whine, and the vocals change into goblin-like snarls, creating a feeling of sinister menace, which becomes even more sinister thanks to an exotically swaying and swirling guitar solo whose piercing tones are somehow inviting as well as increasingly crazed. Maniac howls, ugly gurgling expulsions, and berserk screams vent the lyrics with their own groove, while the band as a whole continue on with their nasty but highly headbangable beating.” – No Clean Singing

​
—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780 | jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations | Instagram @AsherMedia | Tweet @AsherMedia
(Rockshots Records, Extreme Metal Music, Armstrong MF, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Le FestEvil)

 

0 Canada’s NOMAD Invites Metalheads To Take A Journey Through The Universe And Their Minds With “Choke”

  • February 14, 2023
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Nomad

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 14, 2023

​

Canada’s NOMAD Invites Metalheads To Take A Journey Through The Universe And Their Minds With “Choke”

Mastered by Christian Donaldson (Cryptopsy)

L-R – Josh MacDonald (Bass), Matt Johnstone (Guitar/Vocals), Bretton Melanson, (Drums/Vocals), Jeff Mabb (Guitar/Vocals)
Photo Credit – Chris Geistlinger

Hailing from Canada’s Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Nomad have been making a name for themselves locally for the last several years, playing at local fests (ex. Armstrong MetalFest) and supporting big-name acts in the extreme metal scene. Now they are excited to reveal their debut album “The Mountain” (mastered by Christian Donaldson (Cryptopsy)), which is as heavy and relentless as it is approachable and honest. New fans will get to enjoy something fresh, while those who have seen them at a festival or supporting a well-known band over the years will be able to replay their favourite tracks over and over. The third single “Choke”, is an epic of phenomenal cosmic power. Nomad comments:

“This single is another pretty long one, hitting different dynamic levels as we go. we looked for other meanings of the word “Choke”, which is the chorus section, guitarist/vocalist Matt Johnstone took the reins on a number of other sections, and went with a cosmic theme, the birth, and death of the universe. We married those different themes together and this is the result.”

Listen to “Choke” via its premiere on TheCirclePit’s YouTube channel – https://youtu.be/nZ2rrlrld8Q

​

The writing process for Nomad has always been collaborative which fills their music with diverse layers of influences. During their writing process, one member will usually have a collection of riffs that go together, or the skeleton of a song, and they’ll sit together and workshop it to nail down the instrumentals, with everyone putting their own stamp on things. Normally the song title will come next based on the feel or vibe one or more members get from the song, and lyrics will come based on the title, often with multiple interpretations of what the title could mean.

“The Mountain” is due out on March 3, 2023, and was mixed by drummer Bretton Melanson and mastered by Christian Donaldson (Cryptopsy). It is recommended for fans of Gojira, Lamb of God, and Sepultura.

Album pre-order (CD, Digital) – Nomadbc.bandcamp.com​

Previous singles

“Burning Alive” – https://youtu.be/N4uKBAfxc4c ​​

“Revolution” – ​https://youtu.be/eCxDYxihhtw

​

Track Listing:​
1. Burning Alive (4:30)
2. Haunted (6:00)
3. Revolution (6:05)
4. Relentless (6:09)
5. A Lonely Wanderer (5:08)
6. Blood Moon (9:40)
7. Rise in the Fall (6:20)
8. Processor (6:56)
9. Choke (8:52)
Album Length: 59:38

Album Credits:​
– All songs written and performed by Nomad.
– Additional writing contributions by past members:
Kasey Klassen
Lorne Valliers
Dylan Heska
Justin Kleinsasser
– Mixed by Bretton Melanson
– Mastered by Christian Donaldson
– Album Artwork by: Angela Grimmuza/ Art Of Grimmuza
– MAPL – Canadian Content

Album and Live lineup:​
Bretton Melanson: Drums/Vocals
Matt Johnstone: Guitar/Vocals
Jeff Mabb: Guitar/Vocals
Josh MacDonald: Bass

For more info: Facebook.com/nomadmetal | Instagram.com/nomadbandbc​

About: Nomad is a dynamic, progressive death metal band from the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Canada and consists of drummer/vocalist Bretton Melanson; guitarist/vocalist Matt Johnstone; guitarist/vocalist Jeff Mabb; plus bassist Josh MacDonald. Kickstarted by Johnstone who was looking for an outlet, he approached Melanson and since the material felt right and with their previous history playing together, the ball was rolling. Over a few years, there was a lineup flux, with each additional leaving their mark on the material. Ultimately, they then recruited Mabb as a second guitarist and MacDonald on bass, and working collaboratively, they weave their melodic, groovy death metal.

Looking to avoid the violence and gore tropes that are quite prominent in metal music, they tend to tell stories based on fictional characters, historical events, science fiction, and astrophysics. Each member adds their own flair to the songs, imprinting their distinct influences.

When they hit the stage, the audience is greeted by multiple vocalists that deliver a massive wall of layered sound, integrated sound effects, and a well-thought-out visual element. They played Canada’s prominent Armstrong Metalfest in 2016-2019 and performed alongside bands such as Kataklysm, Origin, Soulfly, and Alestorm. They are releasing their debut album “The Mountain” in 2023.

– 30 –

​
—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780 | jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations | Instagram @AsherMedia | Tweet @AsherMedia
(Rockshots Records, Extreme Metal Music, Armstrong MF, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Le FestEvil)

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0 Canada’s NOMAD Combine A Ballad With Groovy Death Metal In “Revolution” Off “The Mountain” Out March 2023; Mastered by Christian Donaldson (Cryptopsy)

  • January 16, 2023
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Nomad

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 19, 2022

​

Canada’s NOMAD Combine A Ballad With Groovy Death Metal In “Revolution” Off “The Mountain” Out March 2023

Mastered by Christian Donaldson (Cryptopsy)

L-R – Josh MacDonald (Bass), Matt Johnstone (Guitar/Vocals), Bretton Melanson, (Drums/Vocals), Jeff Mabb (Guitar/Vocals)
Photo Credit – Chris Geistlinger

Nomad is a progressive death metal band from British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley in Canada who are excited to finally be releasing their debut album “The Mountain” this coming March. “Revolution” is the second single off the album and it is their most dynamic offering, featuring clean vocals and harmonies for the first half with a crushing ass kicking at the end. It’s a call to action, a challenge to take making the world a better place into your own hands. They comment on the track:

“The first half is our “ballad” with clean vocals, and the second half is rocking out to one hell of a sludge/groove riff, start light, go heavy, it’s kind of our “One”. The lyrics call for a revolution, a societal change, redistribution of wealth, symbiosis with nature, and to stop messing up the damn planet so our kids have a decent world to live in. The album title comes from the final line of the song, and the “fuck you” is directed to those that put profits over the preservation of our planet.”

Nomad is still early in their career and has cycled through different singers who have each brought their own style to the table and impacted the music in their own ways. Their new shared vocals setup, where three of the four musicians are vocalists, really lets them combine different styles taking the best of what they’ve had in the past from an old-school raw sound to a more refined modern sound.

The progressive melodic groove/death metal is recommended for fans of Lamb of God, Pantera, and Sepultura.

Listen to “Revolution” via its premiere on NoCleanSinging HERE.​

“The Mountain” is due out on March 3, 2023, and was mixed by drummer Bretton Melanson and mastered by Christian Donaldson (Cryptopsy). It is recommended for fans of Gojira, Lamb of God, and Pantera.

Album pre-order (CD, Digital) – Nomadbc.bandcamp.com​

Previous single – “Burning Alive” – https://youtu.be/N4uKBAfxc4c ​​

Track Listing:​
1. Burning Alive (4:30)
2. Haunted (6:00)
3. Revolution (6:05)
4. Relentless (6:09)
5. A Lonely Wanderer (5:08)
6. Blood Moon (9:40)
7. Rise in the Fall (6:20)
8. Processor (6:56)
9. Choke (8:52)
Album Length: 59:38

Album Credits:​
– All songs written and performed by Nomad.
– Additional writing contributions by past members:
Kasey Klassen
Lorne Valliers
Dylan Heska
Justin Kleinsasser
– Mixed by Bretton Melanson
– Mastered by Christian Donaldson
– Album Artwork by: Angela Grimmuza/ Art Of Grimmuza
– MAPL – Canadian Content

Album and Live lineup:​
Bretton Melanson: Drums/Vocals
Matt Johnstone: Guitar/Vocals
Jeff Mabb: Guitar/Vocals
Josh MacDonald: Bass

For more info: Facebook.com/nomadmetal | Instagram.com/nomadbandbc​

About: Nomad is a dynamic, progressive death metal band from the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Canada and consists of drummer/vocalist Bretton Melanson; guitarist/vocalist Matt Johnstone; guitarist/vocalist Jeff Mabb; plus bassist Josh MacDonald. Kickstarted by Johnstone who was looking for an outlet, he approached Melanson and since the material felt right and with their previous history playing together, the ball was rolling. Over a few years, there was a lineup flux, with each additional leaving their mark on the material. Ultimately, they then recruited Mabb as a second guitarist and MacDonald on bass, and working collaboratively, they weave their melodic, groovy death metal.

Looking to avoid the violence and gore tropes that are quite prominent in metal music, they tend to tell stories based on fictional characters, historical events, science fiction, and astrophysics. Each member adds their own flair to the songs, imprinting their distinct influences.

When they hit the stage, the audience is greeted by multiple vocalists that deliver a massive wall of layered sound, integrated sound effects, and a well-thought-out visual element. They played Canada’s prominent Armstrong Metalfest in 2016-2019 and performed alongside bands such as Kataklysm, Origin, Soulfly, and Alestorm. They are releasing their debut album “The Mountain” in 2023.

– 30 –

​
—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780 | jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations | Instagram @AsherMedia | Tweet @AsherMedia
(Rockshots Records, Extreme Metal Music, Armstrong MF, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Le FestEvil)

0 EPK – Nomad – The Mountain (2023)

  • December 15, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Nomad

EPK – Nomad – The Mountain (2023)

Publicist – Jon Asher – jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com

For fans of Gojira, Lamb of God, Pantera, Sepultura, Devildriver

Band: Nomad
Album Title: The Mountain
Release Date: March 3, 2023
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: (Distrokid)

“This has been a long time coming. After so many external factors holding us back we are so happy to finally get this out to the world, and start crushing audiences again. We’re hoping that it fills the need for a little groove in the metal scene. We’ve spoken to many people in the audience after playing a show that say there are not enough bands like Nomad out there that like to slow it down and catch you with a good hook once in a while. We feel that many emotions and influences can be felt throughout this album and are sure to keep the listeners engaged and entertained with heavy riffs, blasting beats, and dynamic vocals.” – Nomad

Facebook.com/nomadmetal | Instagram.com/nomadbandbc | Nomadbc.bandcamp.com | Spotify

““Revolution” takes no time at all to seize attention. The drums clatter and boom with immediately thrilling effect, and around those convulsive strikes the guitars slowly meander and ring in a beguiling harmony. The vocals have their own interesting harmony but flare into rabid, throat-cutting growls. That slithering opening melody, warmed by the bass, reappears and becomes a swelling ear-worm — but with a pause the song transforms into a hulking and jolting brute. The guitars jitter and whine, and the vocals change into goblin-like snarls, creating a feeling of sinister menace, which becomes even more sinister thanks to an exotically swaying and swirling guitar solo whose piercing tones are somehow inviting as well as increasingly crazed. Maniac howls, ugly gurgling expulsions, and berserk screams vent the lyrics with their own groove, while the band as a whole continue on with their nasty but highly headbangable beating.” – No Clean Singing

“The Mountain is a smorgasbord of ideas delivered with unrelenting energy and creativity. It’s not the kind of metal that questions the very foundation of the genre like a Zeal & Ardor would, but it’s really questioning the notion of how many influences a band can integrate into its core identity. This record challenged me and tested my boundaries as a metal fan. This was not exactly my comfort zone as I’m usually more of an atmospheric guy at heart, but it’s not meant to make you feel comfortable. The Mountain is meant to explore the gaps between the past and the present, the harsh and the melodic and the catchy and the complex. New ideas are never easy and they should never be.” – Vox & Hops

“Nomad clearly have a higher purpose musically than just severing eardrums, and the album is an evolution in real-time. While the album has no concrete, overarching story to tell, each song is placed in the order that it was written. The time between opener “Burning Alive” and closer “Choke” puts the wide distance the group has creatively gone through in perspective. While The Mountain starts and ends in a rage, it does so in a different manner. Early on, the groove is strong, but by the latter third of the album, a more technical front is taken. In-between that, the trio of vocalists in the band employ everything from raspy wails to low grunts to melodic singing.” – Heavy Music Headquarters

“Listeners can expect diversity in approach with a meld of groovy death meets modern and semi-progressive influences in terms of hooks and heaviness across these nine tracks – a balancing act that has mixed results… Almost clocking in at an hour, The Mountain has certain appeal for those who love the aggression of modern, progressive groove-oriented metal” – Dead Rhetoric

“what is undeniable is that  NOMAD  plays the card of singularity, and with a disarming naturalness.” – MetalNews.fr

“for a brand new band coming from a fairly remote area, NOMAD has really hooked my interest and in the future, this might become an extremely potent band.” – Wormwood Chronicles

“they’re really a great band, as shown on songs as “Burning Alive” (where a classic Death/Thrash Metal appeal is clear, with many contrasts between grunts and shrieks, and many hooking parts), “Haunted” (a surprising song, filled with excellent arrangements and surprising elements, as the excellent and technical bass playing and clean chords parts, and tribal percussive moments), “Revolution” (a true and Progressive, with shifts between aggressive and introspective moments with clean vocals), “A Lonely Wanderer” (this one is more aggressive than experimental, abusing of the weight due a very good and technical playing of the drums, and what lovely Progressive melodies can be heard), “Blood Moon” (this one is essentially a Progressive Death Metal song based on a fine technical appeal and some melancholic touches, but always being brutal and aggressive, with excellent guitar parts and themes), and “Choke”. The others ones are equally excellent, so dive into this album without fears (and the lyrics are excellent, staying away from the usual themes based on ‘gore’ and ‘satan’ for some fictional characters, historical events, science fiction, and even Astrophysics)” – Metal Temple

Band: Nomad
Album Title: The Mountain
Release Date: March 3, 2023
Label: Self-Release
Distribution: (Distrokid)

Track Listing:
1. Burning Alive (4:30)
2. Haunted (6:00)
3. Revolution (6:05)
4. Relentless (6:09)
5. A Lonely Wanderer (5:08)
6. Blood Moon (9:40)
7. Rise in the Fall (6:20)
8. Processor (6:56)
9. Choke (8:52)
Album Length: 59:38

Album Credits:
– All songs written and performed by Nomad.
– Additional writing contribution by past members:
Kasey Klassen
Lorne Valliers
Dylan Heska
Justin Kleinsasser
– Mixed by Bretton Melanson
– Mastered by Christian Donaldson
– Album Artwork by: Angela Grimmuza/ Art Of Grimmuza
– MAPL – Canadian Content

Album and Live lineup:
Bretton Melanson: Drums/Vocals
Matt Johnstone: Guitar/Vocals
Jeff Mabb: Guitar/Vocals
Josh MacDonald: Bass

========================================================

The album as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

Catchy. Groove Factory & Krank

Note, the tracks on the album are presented in the order they were written. It wasn’t written as a concept album so there isn’t a lot tying one track to the next lyrically.

Track by track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY):

1. Burning Alive
In the first song we wrote together, Matt had the riffs and brought them to our first practice, which took place at Bretton’s parent’s house, in the attic above their shop, with no air conditioning, in August. It was HOT. The title came from how ridiculously hot we were, and from there the lyrics came to surround the topic of forest fires and is intended as a call-out to any idiot that throws their cigarette butts out their car window.

2. Haunted
An exploration of building on one idea, can we use the same riff for the quiet section as well as the loud. The lyrics follow a man haunted and tormented by demons/hell/the supernatural.

3. Revolution
The first half is our “ballad” clean vocal spot #1. and the second half is rocking out to one hell of a sludge/groove riff, start light, go heavy, it’s kind of our “one” (Metallica). The lyrics call for a revolution, or societal change, redistribution of wealth, symbiosis with nature, and stop messing up the damn planet so our kids have a decent world to live in. The album title comes from the final line of the song (like how Slayer used “God hates us all” from disciple). The “Fuck you” is directed at those that put profits over the preservation of our planet.

4. Relentless
The verses of this song let us have fun with starting a riff slow and speeding it up over the course of the section. Also, drum solo #1 of the album. Lyrically the song portrays the mental struggle of dealing with anxiety induced by the duality of man. An acknowledgment that no matter how much good there is in the world there will always be a dark side to the mind of humankind  

5. A Lonely Wanderer
This one starts with some Mongolian Throat singing performed by Jeff and is also based around two main riffs, that we push and pull to bring ups and downs. It tells the story of a Man who’s fed up with society and leaves to live as a recluse, Wandering the wilderness, being a Nomad. This is the guy on the album cover, and on the inside of the CD case.

6. Blood Moon
This is our epic, it’s a long journey through a few different sections. Clean vocal spot #2 in the middle. It tells the story of a werewolf hunter who was bitten while hunting a werewolf and is becoming one himself.

7. Rise in the Fall
The title came first here, and I thought “gee, that sounds like the Russian revolution” one regime rising while the previous one falls, and it happens in the fall… not that deep of a double meaning, but it is one nonetheless. Wish I had written this in high school, would have upped my mark in history class, and I probably would have got a top mark in the school (darn second place). Yes, I am a huge nerd.

8. Processor
This one’s our most Tech death track. Got some really fast double kick bursts, using my low voice a lot for the vocals. The lyrics are about an artificial Intelligence designed to save humankind, who sees that humans are destroying the planet they need to live on, so the best way to preserve humankind is to preserve everyone digitally, and get rid of their bodies, so it’s trying to find every last person, “process” them, and incinerate the bodies, so there’s no further need to consume earth’s resources. The last line of the song says “destroyer of man” in one ear, and “protector of man” in the other

9. Choke
Another pretty long one, hitting different dynamic levels as we go. I looked for other meanings of the word “Choke”, which is the chorus section, Matt took the reins on a number of other sections and went with a cosmic theme, the birth, and death of the universe. We married those different themes together and this is the result.

========================================================

BAND STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS:

1. The original form of the band formed after Matt approached Bretton at Armstrong Metalfest in 2015 to get the last required member to start a band. Originally a one-guitar band, the rest eventually decided to get a second and Bretton had been jamming with Jeff just before.

2. Went through 4 different lead singers (well, 3 but one guy came twice, it went Kasey – Justin – Kasey – Dylan) before deciding, screw it, let’s “Mastodon” it, and just share vocals. Bretton took the initiative on lead vocals learning the songs during the pandemic

3. Drums were tracked when we still had singer #1. Really slows down recording when you keep having to start from square one with a new singer.

4. Nomad was together for about a year with only one guitar before getting Jeff in the band. The addition of another guitar really fleshed out the sound and brought new techniques and influences into the band.

5. Djeff’s first jam with the band was right after Matt had moved to a house right beside the baseball fields in Enderby, I remember setting up, hitting my snare drum once, and seeing about a hundred baseball players all turn their heads at once to see what the heck that noise was. We didn’t jam there again.

6. Matt and Jeff have both played with broken ankles.

7. Matt was in the hospital with a blood clot in his brain and almost died, had to leave the hospital early to get to our gig on time.

L-R – Josh MacDonald (Bass), Matt Johnstone (Guitar/Vocals), Bretton Melanson, (Drums/Vocals), Jeff Mabb (Guitar/Vocals)

Photo Credit – Chris Geistlinger

Nomad is a dynamic, progressive death metal band from the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Canada and consists of drummer/vocalist Bretton Melanson; guitarist/vocalist Matt Johnstone; guitarist/vocalist Jeff Mabb; plus bassist Josh MacDonald. Kickstarted by Johnstone who was looking for an outlet, he approached Melanson and since the material felt right and with their previous history playing together, the ball was rolling. Over a few years, there was a lineup flux, with each additional leaving their mark on the material. Ultimately, they then recruited Mabb as a second guitarist and MacDonald on bass, and working collaboratively, they weave their melodic, groovy death metal.

Looking to avoid going too crazy on the violence and gore tropes that are quite prominent in metal music, they tend to tell stories based on fictional characters, historical events, science fiction, and astrophysics. Each member adds their own flair to the songs, imprinting their distinct influences.

When they hit the stage, the audience is greeted by multiple vocalists that deliver a massive wall of layered sound, integrated sound effects, and a well-thought-out visual element. They played Canada’s prominent Armstrong Metalfest in 2016-2019 and performed alongside bands such as Kataklysm, Origin, Soulfly, and Alestorm. They are releasing their debut album “The Mountain” on March 3, 2023.

Tours and Festivals:  
Armstrong Metalfest 2016-2017-2018-2019

Shared Stage with: Alestorm, Origin, Nekrogoblikon, Wake, Within Destruction, Kataklysm,Archspire, Neck of the Woods, The Kennedy Veil, Sarah Longfield,
Revocation, Beyond Creation, Dayglo Abortions, Unleash the Archers, Rivers of Nihil, The Zenith Passage, Soulfly, Today is the Day, Pound, West of Hell

0 Canada’s NOMAD Announce Fiery New Single “Burning Alive” Off Debut Album “The Mountain” Out March 2023

  • December 14, 2022
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Nomad

NEWS RELEASE

December 14, 2022

​

Canada’s NOMAD Announce Fiery New Single “Burning Alive” Off Debut Album “The Mountain” Out March 2023

Mastered by Christian Donaldson (Cryptopsy)

L-R – Josh MacDonald (Bass), Matt Johnstone (Guitar/Vocals), Bretton Melanson, (Drums/Vocals), Jeff Mabb (Guitar/Vocals)
Photo Credit – Chris Geistlinger

From British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley in Canada, Nomad has been making a name for themselves locally for the last several years, playing at local fests and supporting big-name acts in the extreme metal scene. Now they have their debut album “The Mountain” ready for consumption and their blend of progressive, groovy death metal is sure to impress existing fans and entice new listeners. Their first single “Burning Alive” was the first song they wrote together, pieced together at their very first jam. The lyrics were inspired by the heat of that day, and the careless ignition of forest fires. They added blazing riffs, smokey vocals, and smooth bass lines to round it out, making it an impressive introduction to Nomad. They share their thoughts on the album:

“We’re hoping that it fills the need for a little groove in the metal scene. We’ve spoken to many people in the audience after playing a show that say there are not enough bands like Nomad out there that like to slow it down and catch you with a good hook once in a while. We feel that many emotions and influences can be felt throughout this album and are sure to keep the listeners engaged and entertained with heavy riffs, blasting beats, and dynamic vocals.”

There have been a few lineup changes in Nomad since their inception and each one of those members has left their mark on the band’s music. They’ve always worked collaboratively, one member bringing in the skeleton of a song and it being workshopped until it meets everyone’s standard. This had led to masterful consistency, present in every groovy riff, every chunky chord, and throughout the blasting of drums.

The single “Burning Alive” can be heard via its premiere on Bravewords HERE. ​

“The Mountain” will be released on March 3, 2023, and was mixed by drummer Bretton Melanson and mastered by Christian Donaldson (Cryptopsy). It is recommended for fans of Gojira, Lamb of God, and Pantera.

Album pre-order (CD, Digital) – Nomadbc.bandcamp.com

​

Track Listing:​
1. Burning Alive (4:30)
2. Haunted (6:00)
3. Revolution (6:05)
4. Relentless (6:09)
5. A Lonely Wanderer (5:08)
6. Blood Moon (9:40)
7. Rise in the Fall (6:20)
8. Processor (6:56)
9. Choke (8:52)
Album Length: 59:38

Album Credits:​
– All songs written and performed by Nomad.
– Additional writing contributions by past members:
Kasey Klassen
Lorne Valliers
Dylan Heska
Justin Kleinsasser
– Mixed by Bretton Melanson
– Mastered by Christian Donaldson
– Album Artwork by: Angela Grimmuza/ Art Of Grimmuza
– MAPL – Canadian Content

Album and Live lineup:​
Bretton Melanson: Drums/Vocals
Matt Johnstone: Guitar/Vocals
Jeff Mabb: Guitar/Vocals
Josh MacDonald: Bass

For more info: Facebook.com/nomadmetal | Instagram.com/nomadbandbc​

About: Nomad is a dynamic, progressive death metal band from the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Canada and consists of drummer/vocalist Bretton Melanson; guitarist/vocalist Matt Johnstone; guitarist/vocalist Jeff Mabb; plus bassist Josh MacDonald. Kickstarted by Johnstone who was looking for an outlet, he approached Melanson and since the material felt right and with their previous history playing together, the ball was rolling. Over a few years, there was a lineup flux, with each additional leaving their mark on the material. Ultimately, they then recruited Mabb as a second guitarist and MacDonald on bass, and working collaboratively, they weave their melodic, groovy death metal.

Looking to avoid the violence and gore tropes that are quite prominent in metal music, they tend to tell stories based on fictional characters, historical events, science fiction, and astrophysics. Each member adds their own flair to the songs, imprinting their distinct influences.

When they hit the stage, the audience is greeted by multiple vocalists that deliver a massive wall of layered sound, integrated sound effects, and a well-thought-out visual element. They played Canada’s prominent Armstrong Metalfest in 2016-2019 and performed alongside bands such as Kataklysm, Origin, Soulfly, and Alestorm. They are releasing their debut album “The Mountain” in 2023.

– 30 –

​
—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780 | jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations | Instagram @AsherMedia | Tweet @AsherMedia
(Rockshots Records, Extreme Metal Music, Armstrong MF, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Le FestEvil)

 

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