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0 EPK – Abolishment of Flesh – Resurrecting Misanthropy (EP) (2023)

  • December 14, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · Abolishment of Flesh · EPKs · Uncategorized

EPK – Abolishment of Flesh – Resurrecting Misanthropy (EP) (2023)

“This EP is short and sweet. I think people will dig it! There’s a little bit of something for everyone. We’re not just death metal, we throw in some black metal, melody, thrash, groove, and grind. We’ve been lucky enough to string in some fans who normally don’t listen to underground metal. I think our sound incorporates several aspects of metal and we don’t want to just stick to one formula.” – Ramon Cazares – Abolishment of Flesh

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

Artist Management – Mark Kloeppel – Extreme Management Group – EMG.MarkKloeppel[@]gmail.com

For fans of Kataklysm, Suffocation, Deicide, Goatwhore, Amon Amarth

Abolishmentofflesh.com | Facebook.com/abolishmentoffleshofficial | X.com/abolishmenttxdm | Youtube.com/@abolishmentoffleshofficial | Instagram.com/abolishmentoffleshofficial

Abolishmentofflesh.bandcamp.com | Spotify

“The song’s (Disavowed) lyrics are eloquent but crushing — a narrative of broken men, hollowed out, filled with prolonged misery, and now “apathetic, hater of life, a mockery and in distress,” entertained only by the suffering of others, begging for death, and “awaiting the cleansing with blood / Adorned with nails and a crown of thorns.” As dark as the words are, the song is equally dark. From the beginning, harsh and heavy slashing chords and chant-like tones cast a grim cloud, backed by head-moving beats, and the searing intervention of the writhing lead guitar feverishly spreads despair. When gritty growls come in, the riffing spasms. When the voice transforms to rabid screams, the music slashes again but blazes in distress. The drums blast; the guitars swarm; the vocals wildly channel agony and rage; and quick jolts segment the violence. The darkness is unrelenting, but the song is also exhilarating, and it should appeal especially to fans of Deicide.” – No Clean Singing 

“Spiraling and crazed death metal from Amarillo, The Abolishment Of Flesh’s debut proves they aren’t messing around.” – Metal Injection (Inhuman Condition 2018)

 

[Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics]

Band: Abolishment of Flesh
EP Title: Resurrecting Misanthropy
Release Date: August 4, 2023
Label: Self-Release

Track Listing:
1. Words Defy Truth (4:00)
2. Hater of Man (3:23)
3. Disavowed (4:04)

EP Credits
All songs performed by Abolishment of Flesh
All songs written by Ramon Cazares
Produced by Ramon Cazares
Mixed and Mastered by Andrew Nagorski
Artwork by: Remy Cooper

EP Lineup:
Ramon Cazares – Guitars, Bass, Drums, Vocals
Izaak Chavez – Guitar

Live Session Musicians for this EP:
Jake Lahniers – Bass, Backing Vocals
Adrian Galindo – Drums
Joseph Howard – Drums
Saul Hernandez – Bass

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

About The EP Artwork:
Our EP’s artwork represents death, the coming and anticipation and finally, the accomplishment of death.

About The EP:
The lyrics are themed around some pretty dark and aggressive topics. I like the idea of composing music based on those emotions and trying to create an atmosphere. It’s kind of like a soundtrack. Our album “In the Presence of Darkness” had a lot of personal emotion put into that. This release is a continuation of that experience. My family went through some dark times, and I was able to use that as inspiration. For me, music can be therapeutic. It’s like going to a rage room and smashing stuff.

Track By Track:

1. Words Defy Truth – This song is about the lies and manipulation by religious members.

2. Hater of Man – This is about a pregnant person who hates what’s inside them and basically rejects and abuses this being. After being born grows up with this rejection and hate that evolves to be worse than the mother to the point of a murderous hatred for man.

3. Disavowed – In a way, this could be a continuation of “Hater of Man”. It’s about a person that’s grown old and became misanthropic.

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

Fun Facts – Story Angles

1. So our message is definitely anti-human and about death and destruction. We hope people read the message in our songs and can relate or understand its just our opinion and perspective,  mixed in with truth and sarcasm.

2. Despite our grim lyrics, when we get together for rehearsal and tour, we’re always joking around and having a good time. Totally the opposite of the theme of the band.

3. Except for our self-titled debut album, the rest of our releases have been recorded at my house. We are definitely a DIY band. Even in our music video for Behind Deceitful Eyes, all the props and imagery you see were created by us. It’s a lot more work to put in but the end result is much more gratifying when it’s all said and done.

4. Going on tour can be a lot of fun but it’s also very stressful. Despite everything that can possibly go wrong, I would never trade that experience for anything else. Most regular adults my age work and save money all year long to take that big vacation. Touring is like my vacation. On tour, you get to see the country, meet new people, and jam on stage with your bros. It’s all I ever wanted to do as a kid. I still have to go back home to a job and be a responsible adult. But on tour, it’s like being a different person and all your troubles and responsibilities are hundreds of miles away.

Live Lineup – Top Left – Ramon Cazares – Guitars, Vocals – Top Right – Izaak Chavez – Guitar

Bottom Left – Jake Lahniers – Bass, Backing Vocals – Bottom Right – Adrian Galindo – Drums

Birthed from the High Plains of West Texas, USA,  Abolishment Of Flesh emerged in 2008 as a brutal death metal weapon forged by founding member Ramon Cazares. Not long after their inception they released their debut self-titled album and hit the road on a rampage. 

The band’s next release “Decimation” came out in 2012 and was followed by the Brutal Alliance Tour in which they razed venues across the country. On a roll now, AOF once again headlined the now 5-week Brutal Alliance Tour in 2013 and released their devastating second full-length album “Creation to Extinction” at the end of the year.

Refusing to stay in the confines of a single genre, Abolishment Of Flesh looks to death, black, and thrash metal to hone their razor-sharp sonic arsenal. In 2018, they released the pummeling “The Inhumane Condition” and followed it up with “In the Presence of Darkness” in 2021. These destructive full lengths further cemented the band’s name in the local scene. 

Their lyrical content is shaped by war, violence, disease, corruption, and the systematic collapse of human civilization. Each track is a brutal autopsy of mankind’s fatal flaws combined with true metal artistry, a relentless commitment to musical creativity, and an uncompromising live performance that transforms every show into a battlefield of sound.

In 2023, AOF released “Resurrecting Misanthropy” a continuation of their musical warfare that will leave listeners shell-shocked and with ringing ears.

Discography:

2023 – Resurrecting Misanthropy EP
2021 – In the Presence of Darkness
2018 – Inhuman Condition
2012 – Decimation EP
2008 – AOF Debut
Shared Stage with: Suffocation, Carcass, Goatwhore, Vital Remains,  Decrepit Birth, Fallujah, Cattle Decapitation, Origin, Pyrexia, Immolation, Cephalic Carnage, Gorgasm, Beyond Creation, King Parrot, Marduk, Samael, Power Trip, Exmortus, Abysmal Dawn, Veil of Maya, Suicide Silence, Arsis, White Chapel, Psycroptic, We Came As Romans, Iwrestledabearonce and tons more.
Tours and Festivals:

2022 – Chicago Domination Fest
2020/2023 – Slam Dakota
2018 – Full Terror Assault
2018 – Spring Melt Down (Lake Tahoe)
2018 – Northern Colorado Death Fest
2016 – Heaven and Hell Fest (Mexico City)
2015 – Building Temples From Death (Texas)
2015 – OC Death Fest (California)
2013 – SO CAL Flesh Fest 2
2011 – Las Vegas Death Fest 3
2009-2015 – West Texas Death Fest

0 \m/ Powerplay Rock and Metal Magazine \m/ Aug 2024 Jupiter Cyclops VICOLO INFERNO Rockshots Records Siege Perilous, The Misfires, Quiescent Mantis Exitus Stratagem Records, Turbo

  • September 3, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · Jupiter Cyclops (Rockshots Records) · powerplay magazine · Quiescent Mantis · Siege Perilous · The Misfires · Turbo · Uncategorized · Vicolo Inferno (Rockshots Records)

\m/ Powerplay Rock and Metal Magazine \m/ Aug 2024
Jupiter Cyclops VICOLO INFERNO Rockshots Records
Siege Perilous, The Misfires, Quiescent Mantis Official Exitus Stratagem Records, Turbo
https://powerplaymagazine.co.uk/shop/p/powerplay-276-august-2024

#magazine #musicmag #musicmagazine #metalmag #metalmagazine #rockmag #rockmagazine #metal #rock

 

0 Rockshots Records – Brazil’s GLORIA PERPETUA ”Have You Forsaken The Cross” New Single Out! Off Debut Album “The Darkside We Wanna Hide” Out Aug 2024

  • July 27, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · Gloria Perpetua (Rockshots Records) · Music News · Uncategorized

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 27, 2024

Brazil’s GLORIA PERPETUA ”Have You Forsaken The Cross” New Single Out!

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

Set to release their debut album “The Darkside We Wanna Hide” this coming August on Rockshots Records, Brazil’s Gloria Perpetua’s 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).

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.

Today, it’s time to get another shot of this upcoming record with the new single “Have You Forsaken The Cross?” This song is talking about a question to the church and religion, in general, getting dogma over love, a very important issue. Musically this song could be described as a mix between Iced Earth and Tony Martin

Digital – https://lnk.to/s9C9DnlE​

Youtube – https://youtu.be/-DXQZbp5bgs​

“The Darkside We Wanna Hide” is set to be released on CD on August 30th, 2024 from Rockshots Records.
​https://bit.ly/GloriaPerpetuaCD​
​
Previous 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
2. Beyond The Darkness Portal (ft. Luís Mariutti, Christian Passos, Raphael Dantas)
3. Have You Forsaken The Cross? (ft. Marcelo Kalunga)
4. Mothers of Jerusalem
5. The Angels Are Calling (ft.Vitor Veiga)
6. The Rape of Gaia (ft. Guilherme Hirose)
7. The Architect (ft. Timo Tolkki & Vitor Veiga)
8. The Key of Life
9. The Way of a Warrior (ft. João Noleto)
10. The Sick Cycle To The Death (ft. Vitor Rodrigues)

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

-30-

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

0 EPK – Maitreya – Auxesis (2024) – Out Oct 11th

  • July 12, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Maitreya · Uncategorized

EPK – Maitreya – Auxesis (2024) – Out Oct 11th

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

For fans of Between The Buried and Me, The Contortionist, Twelve Foot Ninja, Leprous, Thank You Scientist

Maitreyametal.com | Facebook.com/maitreyametal | Youtube.com/@maitreyametal | Instagram.com/maitreyametal

Maitreyametal.bandcamp.com | Spotify | Apple Music

“Just relaxing and enjoying a catchy riff is not an option with Maitreya anyway. If you like complex song structures and styles that are woven together without compromise, Maitreya is the right place for you.” – Musika

“We’re always on the hunt for interesting new metal bands, and Canada’s Maitreya certainly qualifies. The band’s newest single, “Catalyst”, treads familiar progressive metal territory – think vocals similar to Leprous and instrumentation akin to older BTBAM – but rest assured it sounds fresh.” – New Fury Media

“Heavy metallers Maitreya recognize the value of dreams with their new single and music video for “Bloom,” a rifftastic blast of progressive metal.” – V13

“What’s on the menu here is a wide range of flavours. There’s something to suit the taste of any serious metal fan. This relatively new band has some good ideas and knows how to execute them. Despite the current restrictions, these guys have plenty of time to bring the Maitreya brand to the fore.” – The Prog Space

“What we have here with Hyper Reels is a fresh take on both progressive metal and metalcore in general. Ten high-powered and heavy efforts that go in a myriad of unexpected and thrilling directions. If there’s one thing Maitreya do well on Hyper Reels, it is to keep you guessing all the time.” Games, Brrraaains & A Headbanging Life​
​
​“Ambitious and aggressive, Canada’s Maitreya break boundaries from the beginning with Departed. Heavy, contemporary metal chords are underscored by droning, chorusing vocals, but blink and you’ll miss them as Maitreya soon change direction to a growling verse pandemonium. Their riffing is adventurous and deadly, cutting through weighty, rolling rhythms and movements.” – Jace Media

[Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics]

EP Title: Auxesis
Release Date: October 11th, 2024
Label: Self-Release

Track Listing:
1. Paradigm (6:47)
2. Still Motion (4:49)
3. The Traveler (5:32)
4. Vestigial Memories (5:21)
5. Arcana (6:05)
Album Length: 28:33

EP Credits:
• All songs performed by: Maitreya
• All songs written by: Maitreya
• Produced by: Maitreya / Zack Johnson
• Mixed by: Zack Johnson
• Mastered by: Luc Chiasson
• Album Artwork by: Lucas Escobar / Lyam Morrison
• Member of SOCAN
• MAPL – Canadian Content

EP/Live Band Line Up:
Mark Wylie – Guitar
Lyam Morrison – Bass
Matt Cutrara – Vocals
Brandon Pellatt – Drums

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

About The EP Artwork

Lyam : With the themes of growth in the music, I wanted to reflect that in the artwork. Using geometric concepts to represent that was in the forefront for my collaborator Lucas Escobar and

I, alongside the concept we’ve cultivated in the band, that Maitreya is a character our art embodies and not simply a name.

Central in the artwork is Maitreya, seated atop an ascending harmonic series, emanating outwards into higher planes of being. Surrounding them are symbols representing values that can either propel them higher or drag them into stagnation. To the lower right are symbols of the three poisons, delusion, attachment and aversion. Opposing them in the upper left are symbols to evoke their counters, wisdom, generosity and love. At the pinnacle of the artwork sits the diagram of the tree of life, which represents in this case the growing connection between all things that is unseen. Entering the frame from outside is Saturn, this is a representation of the point we’re at in our lives and also in this project. A time of change and realization, with Saturn’s return. The geometry framing all of this is the circle in square diagram, which represents varying levels of being, as Saturn returns it allows the middle level to shift which in turns allows for a jump to a greater existence. The colours were also very intentional. Traditionally, dioxazine purple has represented the fabric that’s beneath and throughout the universe. Gold is universally known for being precious, and in our case the gold represents how by simply being all things are precious.

About  the album as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY)

Mark:
Auxesis is the Greek word for growth. We felt this was an accurate depiction of the state and development of the band during this album cycle. It became like a motto, ‘in the spirit of Auxesis’ – to operate in a fashion that allows us to grow to our full potential as individuals and as musicians.

The album is rich with a depth of sonic layers such that the listener can yield new discoveries after multiple listens. The complexity of the music is subtle, making it accessible to general audiences but also intriguing to the advanced, musically-inclined demographics. There’s a strong poetic focus to create an artistic work ripe with emotional and philosophical commentaries on the human condition.

Matt:
Auxesis treads interesting ground lyrically with themes of change, growth, introspection, creation, dreams and memories. Musically we tread new ground with some reggae inspired sections, spoken word/characters sections, acapella, and choral sections.

Track by track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY)

Paradigm
Mark: Paradigm musically is based around two core ideas; a patterned harmonic sequence and rhythmic modulations over 6/8 time.It started with a Maj7#11 chord voicing I got from Allan Holdsworth. The goal was to have this Lydian modal sound modulate to various keys using the interval sequence of a Major 3rd down, followed by a minor 3rd down before repeating. When mapped out to a Circle of 5ths diagram, these sequences generate interesting geometric patterns.There’s a 6/8 arpeggio idea that is present throughout each section. Rhythmically I wanted to attempt different polyrhythm and polymeter ideas against this 6/8 ostinato. As each new section modulates harmonically, it also modulates in time signature.Matt:
Lyrically Paradigm is about understanding the relationship between your feelings and your identity. Some people choose to let their emotions consume them, when they are only a part of your identity.

Lyam: When Mark showed me the composition for Paradigm I was blown away. It stayed in our backlog folder for a while and I’d listen to it periodically, it struck me as much more of a journey than most of the music so far had been. We talked a few times about including spoken word passages in a song and it was the perfect candidate for that. I’m a person who is often overwhelmed by feeling. Over my life I’ve learned more and more that emotions are an experience and not something that makes you you. That became the lyrical concept I pushed for, and relating that to a “Paradigm” shift once a person gains enough experience to learn that perspective.

Still Motion
Mark: Many of my compositions are inspired by practice and studies of Yogic traditions. This song in particular is based on the experience of expansion felt in meditation. The attempt musically was to capture the type of motion felt in an astral out-of-body-experience, while still remaining conscious of the physical body. Most notable of this effect compositionally is the rhythmic interplay used in the chorus section. The rhythm has a way of syncopating on and off the beat, creating a type of non-resolving momentum.

Matt:
Lyrically Still Motion is about gaining the benefit of stillness in clarity and awareness. Being able to forgive yourself for straying from your path, and learning as much as you can along the way.

The Traveler
Mark:
The seed idea for this song can be traced to a goofy way we would cover Bulls on Parade by Rage Against the Machine. I would set up a wah effect on a clean channel for that “70’s porn-funk” kind of sound and do a reggae-funk thing against the hip-hop inspired verse rap section. I basically thought it would be funny to have a song that drifted in between this jazz-funk-reggae hybrid with metal. This is something I found 12 Foot Ninja executed well on, pretty sure I also ripped off the intro chord progression from one of their songs to get the ball rolling on this tune.

Matt:
Lyrically The Traveler is rooted in hurt and displacement. Dealing with feelings of betrayal and a breakdown of communication.

Vestigial Memories
Mark:
This song instrumentally is the oldest tune on the EP, dating back to an original demo titled Glacier in 2018. During the period of time in my life when I wrote this song, I was undergoing radiation treatment post oral cancer surgery. Reflecting on the vibe of the music now, it sounds hopeful and optimistic about future health but also highlights the emotional darkness and physical suffering of the experience.

Matt:
Lyrically, Vestigial memories is about trying to find peace inside the sea of memories that exist within you at all times. Exercising discernment on which memories to prune and which memories to hold dear is not an easy task.

Arcana
Mark:
This song is inspired by the band, Arcane Roots (hence the title… Lyam and Matt ended up making this super obvious because the words arcane roots appear in the lyrics). I resonated with the way they incorporated synths and vocal harmonies into their sound. I found while emulating their work that there’s a kind of simplicity that can yield a very powerful sonic result – which I think comes across in the chorus sections of this song.

Matt:
Lyrically, I think about Arcana almost as a sort of fairy tale. It talks of magic and belief, truth and the interconnectedness of it all. It has some morals in that it criticizes cowardice and praises surrender. It’s sometimes hard to write optimistic lyrics for me, but this song turned out cautionary, but optimistic overall.

Lyam: The lyrical concept for this one came from a conversation Mark and I had about faith and our differing experiences with it. Giving the trust to have faith in a spiritual concept is always hard for me because of my experiences with Christianity. I wrote the lines for the chorus on a hike. I see God or something like that in nature whenever I get out there. That experience made me want to make the song about choosing to give that trust for faith, instead of about fear.

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

STORY ANGLES / FUN FACTS ABOUT THE BAND

#1: EP Name
Mark: We were having some difficulty naming the album initially, and were against using a song title for the EP title. There was one phrase lyrically that resonated with me in The Traveler – “Our Future is Hyperbole”. I originally thought that might be a cool title, but I put that phrase in Google, and the word Auxesis came up – as a rhetorically synonym for hyperbole or exaggeration. After combing through the various definitions, we felt we could justify all of them to represent the album.

Auxesis (Greek: αὔξησις, aúxēsis) is the Greek word for “growth” or “increase”. In rhetoric, it refers to varying forms of increase:

hyperbole (overstatement): intentionally overstating a point, its importance, or its significance[1][2][3]

climax (ascending series): a series of clauses of increasing force[4]

amplification (rhetorical increase): extension or exaggerated, needless repetition of arguments to emphasize the point

#2: Line up change
At the end of 2022, the band parted ways with original drummer, Steve McMillan and second guitarist, Matt McCabe. There was a pull between the professional commitments of the band and the demands of fatherhood and family obligations.

The band recruited drummer, Brandon Pellatt, in 2023. Mark and Lyam worked with Brandon during summer employment at Canadian Musicians Co-operative from 2019-2021. When it became time to consider a new drummer, it was an easy transition with the prior history performing music together and sharing similar tastes in music.

#3 Drummer envy
Before Brandon joined the band, there was nothing more Brandon wanted to do than to be in the band. Brandon, Mark, and Lyam all worked together and performed in different situations prior to him joining. The majority of that music consisted of pop/rock songs other people wanted to play and maybe a few Mark Wylie metal originals on the street for the fine, albeit agitated folks of Barrie, Ontario. Maitreya was doing all the things that Brandon wanted to be doing!

#4 Band Assemble
Matt was working at Fresh Co when our original members were shopping for milk in Intervals T-shirts. Matt complimented them and the got to talking, turns out they were an instrumental band looking for a vocalist. They invited Matt to jam, and the rest is history.#5 Trumpet Collaboration
In the summer of 2023, the band had been offered a gig on a bill stacked with great Toronto prog bands. Everyone was available to do the date except our vocalist. We didn’t want to pass on the show so we contemplated just playing the show instrumentally. Mark had a crazy idea of attempting to find a saxophone or trumpet player to replace the vocal melodies and stretch out with improvised solos. We figured the audience of progressive music fans would be receptive to this attempt, so we hired jazz trumpeter Paul Callander to fill in. The show went way better than expected, and since we were in the final stages of pre-production for Auxesis – we had Paul record versions of his parts to use for an instrumental release of the EP.#6 Vestigial Memories Backstory
Matt:
There was a period in my life where my memories were overwhelming me, replaying the emotional low points over and over again, but then learning to flow with the more negative cycles as just another part of the wave. Ideals can blind you to reality if you choose to sugar coat everything.

L-R: Mark Wylie (Guitar) | Lyam Morrison (Bass) | Brandon Pellatt (Drums) | Matt Cutrara (Vocals)

Photo Credit: MG Ommert

Maitreya embodies catharsis in musical expression, designed to explore the turbulent emotions of the human condition. Established in 2016 from Whitby, Ontario, Maitreya (may-trey-ah) makes progressive metal music with foundation in heavy sounds, with heart open to ethereal lofty textures. 

In the sophomore release of Hyper Reels (2021), the band’s full DNA unfolds revealing a simultaneous beauty and devastation. The densely layered compositions serve to guide listeners through a collection of commentaries exploring metaphysical reality, artificial intelligence, and the human soul’s place in that landscape. Jace Media highlights signature elements of the album, reviewing the work as “Heavy, contemporary metal chords are underscored by droning, chorusing vocals, but blink and you’ll miss them as Maitreya soon changes direction to a growling verse pandemonium. Their riffing is adventurous and deadly, cutting through weighty, rolling rhythms and movements.” 

The character of Maitreya’s sound evolved greatly since their self-titled (2017) album. Fast frenetic guitar stylings, powerhouse vocal performances, and a full-tilt energetic live show cemented Maitreya as one of Toronto’s exciting up-and-coming metal bands, earning them spots on festivals like Wacken Metal Battle and Kitchener Metalfest. As Dentata Music reviews; “Maitreya’s music is sonic baptism, taking the listener from the fire pits to the icy peaks. The band’s self-titled album weaves an intricate melodic narrative, where both headbanging metal-heavy riffs and reflective vocal lines co-exist in the vortex of sonic alchemy, presented to the listener in its raw, unfiltered elemental form.”

The band entered a new chapter in 2023, seeing the departure of drummer Steve McMillan and guitarist Matt McCabe. Original members Mark Wylie (guitar), Lyam Morrison (bass), and Matt Cutrara (vocals) recruited drummer Brandon Pellatt to support the band’s increasing demands for rhythmic complexity and progressive genre-bending tendencies. 2024 will see the release of the Auxesis EP, five new original works that showcase the band’s trajectory into the modern progressive-metal sphere. A subsequent deluxe release will feature instrumental versions with trumpet performances, giving nod to the band’s influence in the jazz-fusion realm.

Discography:
2024 – Auxesis – EP
2021 – Hyper Reels – LP
2019 – Colonize – Single
2017 – Self Titled – LP

Tours and Festivals:
2023 – Oshawa Music Week – Oshawa, ON
2018 – Wacken Metal Battle – Toronto, ON
2018 – Kitchener Metalfest – Kitchener, ON
2017 – 5/4 fest – Toronto, ON

0 EPK – Manuel Barbara – Whisper in a Storm (2024)

  • July 3, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · EPKs · Manuel Barbara · Uncategorized

EPK – Manuel Barbara – Whisper in a Storm (2024)

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

“I believe that these four tracks are hands-down the best music I have made so far. I think people will really feel that this music has come into its own, and I am excited to move further in this direction in the future. I want this EP to be a heavy, slamming journey to four very distinct musical places, featuring some of my favorite musicians.” – Manuel Barbara

For fans of Monuments, Tesseract, Periphery, Meshuggah, Keith Merrow

Manuelbarbara.com | Facebook.com/8stringalchemy | Instagram.com/8stringalchemy  | Youtube.com/@8stringalchemy | Tiktok.com/@8stringalchemy

Linktr.ee/8stringalchemy | 8stringalchemy.bandcamp.com | Spotify | Apple Music

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

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

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

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

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

“With its rhythmic elements and heavy riffs, Manuel Barbará’s debut album is in the purity of modern instrumental progressive metal. But his influences from classical composers add an interesting extra touch.”- Music Waves (2021 – Moonrise – LP)

“a spectacular showcase of the progressive qualities of Manuel Barbará.” – Games, Brains and A Headbanging Life (2021 – Moonrise – LP)

“This is an astounding first record. Especially for a single composer. If you are a fan of atmospheric instrumental metal, give it a shot. I give the album a solid 8/10. Manuel is already looking forward to the future with new compositions which are even more refined and elaborate. I’m looking forward to it with great anticipation.” – Belgian Metal Shredder (2021 – Moonrise – LP)

“I really enjoyed my time with this album. I’m a big fan of djenty riffs, dissonant tones and atmosphere which this album provided aplenty. The record shows that Manuel is a master craftsman in composition. The album clocks in at about 35 minutes. In this case that’s a plus. It doesn’t overstay its welcome and makes the tracks stand out more. The album is instrumental, which could be a turnoff for some people. But to me it benefits from it. It’s more of a listening album than an all-out headbang/rocking out record.” – Belgian Metal Shredder (2021 – Moonrise – LP)

“without a doubt that we have a talented musician and composer in front of us. The approach is in large parts of the material progressive metal with the corresponding hardness and complexity… You can’t deny the band’s instrumental quality…” – Metal-Heads.de (2021 – Moonrise – LP)

“Manuel Barbará shines bright on Moonrise… this is a fascinating listen and it is easy to appreciate Manuel’s complex musical narrative… this deserves a listen as it does embody the prog metal ideal and as such, it’s a damn good album: think Tesseract or Periphery.” – RAMzine (2021 – Moonrise – LP)

“Barbará has rejuvenated the instrumental metal genre, boldly handling what is often perceived as a deficit of vocals and composing with refinement and a brilliantly malicious sense of melody and groove.” – Jace Media (2021 – Moonrise – LP)

“It’s unbelievable that Moonrise is the debut of a musical high-flyer. Manuel Barbará releases an unbelievably mature masterpiece, which not only pays homage to its role models Dream Theater, Keith Merrow, or Periphery, but also presents crisp, progressive Djent Metal at eye level, which despite its perfection and precision still offers room for improvement. My recommendation with 8.5 / 10” – Soundmagnet (2021 – Moonrise – LP)

“Inviting the listener in with some mystical soundscapes, the tempo and mood change immediately when the trio start firing on all cylinders with a dent-driven, pushing rhythmic sound alongside Manuel’s epic and virtuosic guitar work. The overall sound is dark and mighty, but every now and then gets brightened by some gleaming tones. The use of electronic sounds add a modern vibe as well and he skillfully alternates between full-power, highly technical, and calmer, atmospheric parts, before taking us to the gigantic ending riff.” – Tuonela Magazine (2021 – Moonrise – LP)

[Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics]
EP Title: Whisper in a Storm
Release Date: September 13, 2024
Label: Self-Published
Distribution: Distrokid
Track Listing:
1. Dead Hand (feat. Jody Miller) – 5:43
2. A Different Horizon (feat. Jake Howsam Lowe) – 5:49
3. Aphelion (feat. Michael Nystrom Bala) – 4:13
4. Whisper in a Storm (feat. Thalia Tymowski & Millisa Henderson) – 4:51
5. Whisper in a Storm (instrumental) – 4:51
EP Length: 24:42

EP Credits:
All songs written and performed by Manuel Barbará
Produced, mixed, and mastered by Manuel Barbará
EP artwork by Jason Grossman
===================================================

About The EP Artwork

Since Whisper in a Storm is about Blade Runner, I thought having some origami on the cover would be appropriate. I was considering just making it an origami unicorn, but I ended up settling on the eye.

About the EP as a whole (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY)

This EP is designed to be a strange, adventurous, expertly crafted punch to the face with just enough spacey ambiance to make it punch even harder and just enough big synths to make it feel like you might be stabbed with a katana under a neon sign.

Track by Track (LYRICALLY & MUSICALLY)

Dead Hand was the first of the four songs to come together. Heavily inspired by Monuments, it mainly features a big heavy riff that keeps returning with slightly different feels and that gives me an image of a big snake that you definitely don’t want to get in the way of. That riff gives way to all kinds of spacey ambiance and twisty strangeness. The ending riff is one of the heaviest and weirdest things I’ve ever written, and Jody’s scary violin textures tie the whole experience together.

A Different Horizon kicks off with an off-kilter riff in 3s that sets the tone for the rest of the song. There’s always something making you anticipate the next section. Jake’s brilliant solo is bookended by a massive melodic riff and the whole piece ends with a section that the bass player in Necronomicon ex Mortis described as “what in the Dark Souls haunted cathedral is this?”

Aphelion –  The original idea for this song was “What if I took a straightforward unga-bunga riff and made it weirder and weirder every time it happens”. The big stompy intro with slightly alien harmony goes through a process of transformation and fragmentation until it comes back to its original form and immediately falls apart again. The two solos, by myself and Mike, contrast one another very nicely.

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

===================================================
STORY ANGLES – FUN FACTS

1. One of the sound effects in Whisper in a Storm is actually two kitchen knives scraping together.

2. I regularly find myself in the odd position of being metal teacher while being not abstract enough for classical teachers

3. I learned to play guitar on a 7-string. 6-strings feel like toys whenever I pick one up.

4. I feel like my music is a constant attempt to surprise myself with something. The trouble is, once I write it, it stops being surprising.

5. I played a show in Long Island a few months ago. It took 4 hours to get to the venue and I was 45 minutes late to my start time. My panic quickly disappeared when the other bands turned out to be an hour late to theirs.

Manuel Barbará is a metal guitarist and composer from the East Coast of the United States who combines the aggression and technical mastery of heavy metal with formal and harmonic concepts learned from the great composers of the 19th and 20th century. Trained at Berklee College of Music (2020, Guitar and Composition), Manuel brings his love of modern “classical” music and composition to bear on the progressive rock that has always inspired him. His compositions, whether for metal band or chamber ensemble, aim to unify these two disparate spheres of music.

His guitar playing is precise and disciplined and his compositions are carefully constructed pieces, full of ambiance and color. Talking about his music, Barbará says: “The purpose of music for me, after all the craft and technique and study are done, is to draw the listeners in and allow them to experience totally new worlds. The details of those worlds will be up to each individual person”.

His debut album “Moonrise” was released in March 2021 and returns in 2024 with his follow-up EP “Whisper In The Storm” out on September 13th.

Discography:
2024 – Whisper In The Storm – EP
2022 – Clockwork Soul (single)
2021 – Moonrise – LP

Shared Stage:
Manuel Barbara also plays in bands:
– Necronomicon Ex Mortis
– Apocalyptic Sandwich of Doom (unreleased)

Opened for: Absurd Condition, Chris Cyanid, Jackpipe, Share the Burden, Feast Your Eyes, Sadha, The Shape it Takes, Eradicate, Krimson Mask, Hellswind

0 EPK – Black Pestilence

  • June 23, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · Uncategorized

EPK – Black Pestilence

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

For fans of Midnight, Toxic Holocaust, Impaled Nazarene, Acidez

Facebook.com/blackpestilenceband | Instagram.com/blackpestilence | Youtube.com/blackpestilence

Blackpestilence.bandcamp.com | Spotify | Apple Music

 

L-R – Daniel Toews – Guitar, Valax – Bass & Vocals, Davey Hellfire – Drums
Photo Credit – Wikked Twist Media

In the winter of 2008, Black Pestilence was formed in Calgary, Canada by bassist/vocalist Valax. Initially, Black Pestilence started as a one-man studio project, but years afterward, it evolved into a three-piece band. Over time, Black Pestilence has become known for their sound by combining black metal, punk rock, and noise. To date, the band has released six full-length albums, two EPs, and performed in various parts of Canada and Europe.

Discography:
2023 – Chaotic Wisdom
2020 – Hail the Flesh
2018 – Urban Hell Rhythmics
2016 – Carry on the Black Flame (EP)
2015 – Outsiders
2014 – Cyber Disarray (Split)
2013 – In Defiance
2011 – Tradition is Obsolete
2009 – Vice

Shared Stage with: Soulfly, The Black Dahlia Murder, Toxic Holocaust, Wednesday 13, Skeletonwitch, Absu, Dayglo Abortions, Revenge, Wake

Tours and Festivals:
2022 – Pestilence and Pigs European Tour – Serbia, Croatia, Hungary, Slovenia, Germany
2022 – War On Alberta – Edmonton, AB, Canada
2019 – Black Mourning Light Metal Festival – Edmonton, AB, Canada
2018 – Death Fest – 10 Year Anniversary – Bucharest, Romania
2018 – The Deep East of Europe Tour – Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Slovenia, Austria
2016 – Calgary Metal Fest – Calgary, AB, Canada
2016 – Eastern European Tour – Romania, Macedonia, Croatia, Serbia
2015 – Loud as Hell – Drumheller, AB, Canada
2011 – Noctis 4.20 – Calgary, AB, Canada

““Crushing” is indeed the first word that comes to mind when hearing the massive mauling tones of the riffs, like rock being excavated by some humongous machine. That machine drives forward with snapping punk beats, laced with a sinister yet glorious guitar melody. The music itself also becomes more vicious as the riffs start rapidly jabbing and then seething. But the music also channels darker and more despairing moods, before those two solos kick up the pulse and transform the music into an experience of evil ecstasy. The thing turns out to be a very catchy beast too.” – The Devil’s Connection (single) – No Clean Singing

“I seriously can’t get enough of this. It’s big, nasty, and as rough as a badger’s arse. The black energy it creates is like a massive middle finger to the world and it says – you don’t like me, you don’t like my music or all the things I stand for – go and fuck yourself! This is real and this is as honest as it gets. Fantastic – more, please! 9/10” – My Global Mind

“weave in some catchy hooks and melody especially on “Chaos of Carnality” and “The Devil’s Connection,” songs I can easily imagine crowds shouting along to.” – The Metal Crypt

“They get straight to the point on ‘Mortal Rift’ and I will say immediately that if you like Midnight, Venom and Hellripper then this will be right up your street. It’s loud, it’s vulgar, it’s fast, it’s filthy dirty and chaotic – give me more! Valax bangs his bass for the intro to ‘A Life Of Evil’ and is soon joined by the razor-sharp guitar of Daniel Toews and the powerhouse rhythms of Davey Hellfire. This is relentless and pummelling so much so that you can’t help banging your head. 9/10” – Jace Media Music

“These Canadian metallers have returned with their seventh full-length offering, executing a unique blend of chaotic black metal and punk rock with electronic samples and catchy, shorter song lengths. This album, the result of three years of work, presents seven satanic-esque anthems that push the boundaries of their signature sound. While retaining their fast and infectious style, Chaotic Wisdom, also experiments with dissonant tones, industrial electronics, and auxiliary percussion, taking Black Pestilence’s chaotic noise to the next level. The album, mixed and mastered by Sacha Laskow, features artwork by Juha Vuorma, making it a must-listen for black metal enthusiasts, particularly fans of Impaled Nazarene, Acidez, and Midnight.” – Metal Insider

“While speed or thrash metal to the core, there’s a bit of punk about Black Pestilence. The band dances the fine line between thrash and punk with a destructive ease. That thrash punk blend can be heard in “Infernal Might” featuring Mark Russell and closing track “Animus”. And before one knows it, Chaotic Wisdom is over. It clocks in at a mere twenty-four minutes. Get distracted and you might not hear the entire album and that would be quite a shame. As fast as it is, Chaotic Wisdom is quick, melodic, and a great listen. MUST LISTEN TRACKS: “The Devil’s Connection”, “Aspect of Darkness”, “Infernal Might”, “Animus””  – Amplify The Noise

Black Pestilence has its own approach to Black Metal, blending a raw, Punk-influenced base with strange futuristic elements. Chaotic Wisdom is very short, but provides a good overview of the band’s rage.” – Acta Infernalis

“Maintaining its Mad Max side, primitive and low-brow, Black Pestilence offers us a significantly more modern and exalted version of its furious mixture bathed in d-beat, Toxic Holocaust and Venom. Many new followers should easily join their cult.” – Eklektik Rock

“Blackened thrashy stuff with a little groove.” – Moshpit Radio 89.9 FM (Madison, WI)

“Black Pestilence has created another great record and it only takes about twenty-five minutes for you to fall in love with it as well.” – Abaddon Magazine

“Black Pestilence come from Canada, have a thriving record career behind them and today, confining their acid inspiration in just twenty five minutes, they hammer us until we lose consciousness with this ‘ Chaotic Wisdom ’. Their overbearing proposal – that combines thrash, punk and black metal – has caught our attention from the very first listening, accomplices a compositional liveliness and a muscular production that truly do justice to what musically gave birth to this interesting power trio.” – Loud And Proud

“The album is moving forward at an irreconcilable pace, and thanks to less traditional influences, among which we can further count the HCpunk singing of the guest Mark Russell ( Citizen Rage ), it becomes a devilishly baked stylish delicacy.” – Metal Forever

“they play a raw and devilish kind of punk metal which mixes d-beat destruction in the vein of BROKEN BONES and early DISCHARGE with a first wave black metal touch. If Satan’s into crust punk, he’d be into this bunch.” – Wormwood Chronicles

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

“A recent discovery that has tickled the excitement nerves in my jaded and encrusted ear drums is Calgary’s Black Pestilence. Their take on black metal incorporates old-school thrash and punk and if you listen closely you can hear the smatterings of plain ol’ rock ‘n’ roll and swaths of noise and is a sound that has been explored and nurtured since the band formed as a one-man project in 2008. The band’s handlers claim those fans of Toxic Holocaust, Impaled Nazarene, Municipal Waste, Midnight and Cradle of Filth unconcerned with genre boundaries will enjoy Black Pestilence and we have to say the nail has certainly been hit on the head in that regard. Additionally, fans of image and theatrics will find value in the band’s aesthetic which owes to a collision of black metal, goth rock and Judas Priest’s wardrobe and fashion sense. ” – Decibel Magazine

“Hail the Flesh is a nice, quick, in and out style album. There’s no messing around, there’s no overly extended bridges or songs that overstay their welcome. This is a 9 track album that only spans 34 minutes of constant, hard hitting riffs, blasts, and downright aggressive and dominative vocals. Even the final track on the album, “Ephemeral”, which nearly reaches 7 minutes in play time feels fresh the whole way through. ” – Metal Injection

“an album that really has a surprisingly wide range within the black/thrash/punk style so if you love that sort of black and roll aggressive metal, then “Hail The Flesh” will be an album for you.” – The Rockpit

“Calgary, Canada’s Black Pestilence bring a fresh take to the sound, though. Hail The Flesh, the band’s sixth full-length album is a blackened crossover punk-thrash album. It sounds old school, yet very 2000s at the same time…. Municipal Waste, Impaled Nazarene, Toxic Holocaust fans take notice.” – Heavy Music Headquarters

“They really don’t have another gear beyond ‘top’ which makes for a splitting headache of heavy but one that satisfies. After all there are only 9 tracks and as Godless spits and snarls, Frauds to the Throne exudes filthy groove, My Will to Power rages hard and Ephemeral drags the suffering out, the over-riding thought is Black Pestilence have impressed.” 8/10 – Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life

“Honestly, anyone with the remotest interest in Black ‘n’ Thrash, Black ’n’ Roll or even just plain old Thrash is going to love this album. It is a blisteringly addictive listen. The skilfully fluid ways that all these genres are melded is both brilliant and compelling as well as being lyrically inspiring.” – MetalTalk.net

“First things first, it’s not every day you hear black metal as fun as this! That is partly because of the exciting thrash and not-so-serious punk influences, but also because the songwriting is very strong. ” 4/ 5 – The Independent Voice

“dirty, punky Black/Thrash that occasionally makes feedback noises and consistently slaughters everything in its path.” 4/5 – The Metal Crypt

“Hail The Flesh fast heavy hit the pit punch you in the throat speed death metal madness.” – Ripple Music

“They can smash extremely well, and their blend of black metal aesthetic with punk attitude is a perfect fit ” – 4/5 – Deaf Sparrow

“a musical union of black / thrash & punk that just rock ROCK! I give 9 out of 10 Hellfire points” – Hellfire Magazin

“Bringing a sonic assault to listeners…..” – Permafrost Today

“The infusion of punk attitude into black and thrash metal seems almost natural at times, but few carry it off with such a sense of melody and catchiness as Black Pestilence. Their heady mix of 80s skate thrash, punk attitude and a black metal sheen allows ‘Hail the Flesh’ to be an album that you’ll still be humming in 6 months time. Superb” – The Killchain Blog

“This album just fucking rocks, it’s an absolute blast. The riffs are raging, loud, and in your face, the bass lines are groovy and lighting fast. The evil screamed vocals talk of Satanism and giving into life’s many vices with no shame. This is complete with sweet black metal blastbeats galore. If you’re looking to cut loose with a kickass metal record, absolutely throw this on.” Zax Record Reviews

0 Dark, Symphonic Death Metal Titans VALFREYA Announce New Single “The Rise” Off “Dawn of Reckoning” Out May 2024

  • April 24, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Uncategorized · Valfreya

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 24, 2024

Dark, Symphonic Death Metal Titans VALFREYA Announce New Single “The Rise” Off “Dawn of Reckoning” Out May 2024

L-R – Daniel Simard (Guitar), Érik Grenier (Guitar), Corinne Cardinal (Lead Vocals), Jérémy Racine (Drums)

Photography by Philippe Quinn – Picture artwork by Corinne Cardinal

​

Canadian blackened death symphonic metal band Valfreya is proud to announce the release of their sixth album “Dawn of Reckoning” on May 24, 2024. To whet the palettes of those who enjoy epic and dark metal, now they are releasing a lyric video for the single “The Rise”. The concept album sees the band take their darkest turn as they lean into the blackened end of the metal spectrum and follow the goddess Hel as she wreaks havoc upon humanity. The band comments on the album:

“Dawn of Reckoning is a concept album. The main theme revolves around the anger of the goddess Hel which plays the metaphorical role of a fatal justice towards a guilty humanity. The songs convey this anger, but also a range of intense emotions related to the execution of humankind. Musically, you will hear dark symphonies, epic choirs, versatile vocals alongside tumultuous guitars and violin riffs.”

Known for their fervent performances and epic storytelling, Valfreya has been delighting fans since 2009 with their unique blend of metal genres. In “The Rise”, Hel is raising her army because humanity had enough warnings. Its denial is its obsolescence. It is its turn to be threatened and face extinction.

In conjunction with the single release, Valfreya is launching an Indiegogo campaign to fund the production of “Dawn of Reckoning”. Fans will have the opportunity to contribute to the creation of this monumental album and gain access to exclusive perks and rewards. Those with an interest in Septicflesh, Xaon, and Fleshgod Apocalypse, should take a listen.

Watch and listen to the lyric video for “The Rise” – https://youtu.be/2Y8VIg37iMg

​

Indiegogo / Album Pre-Order – https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/contribute-to-valfreya-s-new-release#/​

Merch, CDs and digital music (available on May 24)- https://valfreya.bandcamp.com​

​Spotify​

Track Listing:
​
1. Dawn of Reckoning – 1:56
2. The Rise – 5:55
3. Warcry – 5:52
4. The Fate – 4:10
5. The Fall – 5:22
6. Equilibrium – 8:31
7. The Fallen Kings – 5:02
8. A New Era – 5:11
9. Le Périple – 4:44
10. Reus es – 6:14
Album Length: 53:02

More info: https://linktr.ee/valfreyaofficial​

-30-

—
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#.514.581.5780
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0 Progressive Metallers OMNIVIDE Shares Guitar Playthrough For Album Title Track “A Tale of Fire” + Canadian Tour Dates (NB, NS, QC, ON)

  • April 10, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · Uncategorized

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 10, 2024

Progressive Metallers OMNIVIDE Shares Guitar Playthrough For Album Title Track “A Tale of Fire”

Eastern Canadian Tour Dates (NB, NS, QC, ON)

L-R – Alex Cormier (Bass), Nicolas Pierre Boudreau (Guitar), Samuel Frenette (Guitar & Vocals), Samuel Lavoie (Keyboards), Marc-André Richard (Drums)

Photo Credit – Deepti Suddul – DeeptiSuddul.com​

Unleashing their debut album “A Tale of Fire” this past March, Moncton, New Brunswick’s Ominivide blend their favourite elements from progressive metal, technical death, and symphonic/power metal to present very heavy/dark riffs, along with very grandiose/more epic orchestral instruments, as well as lighter/cleaner sections with clean vocals.

Lyrically, the songs on “A Tale of Fire” are broadly about Omnivide trying to understand death, both as a tragedy and a natural part of life, the pain it brings, and the resilience that can be born from it. They use storytelling in some songs as a vehicle for this, and since they love fantasy media, the content of these stories has fantasy elements, while also weaving in deeper concepts of death, hardship, regret, and growth. Other songs revolve around historical figures, while others are mostly metaphorical, but all are linked together by this exploration of all aspects of death.

As the band is just beginning their Eastern Canadian Tour (dates listed below), the band is showcasing the shred with their latest guitar playthrough video for the album’s title track.

“This song was written by Nicolas and begins with a choir and orchestral intro that slowly builds into developing melodies in a manner similar to classical music. The intro makes the listener anticipate the arrival of the rest of the band, and when the full band does kick in, there is a sense that the song is going to metaphorically explode. There are a lot of old classical music techniques like counterpoint and dual melodies that make this song very tech-death until it slows down in the middle to make it more thrash sounding. The goal was to write more melodies with the keyboards and orchestral instruments to have the song be less guitar-oriented compared to the other songs on the album even though the guitar definitely has a lot going on. This song starts and ends with an orchestral arrangement only, almost like a storm passing by. Lyrically, this song is a metaphor for someone or something who has completely lost control of themselves, being completely overwhelmed by their emotions, like a fire destroying everything in its path.” adds the band.

Watch the playthrough for “A Tale of Fire” at https://youtu.be/fxnnmmWaV5w

​

Released on March 22, 2024, “A Tale of Fire” is recommended for fans of Alkaloid, Devin Townsend, and Obscura.

Album links – https://linktr.ee/omnivide.

Lyric Video – “Holy Killer” – https://youtu.be/gwIYIHQK_i0

​

Band Playthrough – “Opulence” – https://youtu.be/cS4yRxU2PWM

​

Lyric Video – “Cosmic Convergence” – https://youtu.be/xTrUUVcJQXE

https://youtu.be/xTrUUVcJQXE

​

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3HR8e91

​

Track Listing:​
1. Clarity – 6:44
2. Opulence – 4.48
3. Desolate – 7:35
4. A Tale of Fire – 5:05
5. Cosmic Convergence – 5:04
6. Holy Killer – 5:06
7. Death Be Not Proud – 6:32
8. Stoned Dragon – 7:45
Album Length: 48:44

Omnivide – A Tour of Fire
April 10 – Edmundston, NB @ Microbrasserie Ateepic
April 11 – Trois-Rivières, QC @ La Taverne Royale
April 12 – Montreal, QC @ Traxide
April 13 – Quebec City, QC @ Source de la Martinière
April 14 – Sherbrooke, QC @ Le Murdoch
April 15 – Oshawa, ON @ The Atria #
April 16 – Guelph, ON @ Red Papaya #
April 17 – Ottawa, ON @ Dominion Tavern #
April 18 – Toronto, ON @ Hard Luck #
April 19 – Waterloo, ON @ Dive Bar #
April 20 – Newmarket, ON @ The Spot #
* With BLEVK
# With Sentiment Dissolve

More info: Omnivide.ca

-30-

“The compositions on the album are as tenacious and imposing as the angles in the band’s logo. Each song packs a list of surprises that are like colorful candy being fed to you just when you are beginning to get hungry. Obviously talented, the quartet never lets their talent outshine their songwriting, although the flashes they do show will leave you speechless. How is this band not signed to a major record label?” 9/10 – Metal-Temple

“The mix of styles in the material on “A Tale of Fire” speaks volumes to me. Debut albums are always a great stepping stone for bands, and I hope this landmark moment will spur them on. I am sure they have plenty of ideas in their locker and I look forward to hearing more from them. 9/10” – The Prog Space​
​
​“The vast swirling and shimmering sounds that open the new song (Csomic Convergence) quickly encompass the expanse and wonder of the cosmos, but the heavy punching throb of the bass and electrifying percussive acrobatics presage something different on the way — and the change arrives in a sudden flurry of rapidly darting notes, furiously hammering drums, and scalding snarls — which suddenly trade places with sky-high singing. It’s a head-spinning experience, with many moving parts that spin and shift with thrilling speed, eventually overlaid with keys that resemble a glorious heavenly choir whose tones contrast with the ravenous growls and manic instrumental intensity beneath them. Although the rhythm section continue to kick up a storm, the music seems to become even more magnificent and sweeping — until the intensity erupts in blistering blast-beats, unhinged screams, synths that sear, and a thoroughly mind-bending guitar solo at the finale. It’s the kind of closing spectacle that will put your heart in your throat.” – No Clean Singing

“Canadian quintet Omnivide started life as an Opeth tribute band before changing lanes and writing their own music. A Tale Of Fire is the band’s debut album, promising to deliver engaging progressive metal that fans of Alkaloid, Obscura, and, yes, Opeth will enjoy. There are a lot of styles and influences at play here, and Omnivide aim to keep the listener engaged throughout. The band succeeds wonderfully – and no, despite their history they do not come off merely as old Opeth imitators. The symphonic element present is tastefully done, the arrangements are all what one would expect from a more established band, and the performances are all outstanding. Overall, A Tale Of Fire is an excellent debut, and Omnivide are firmly on my radar going forward. In fact, if it wasn’t for Big Big Train this would have been our pick of the month. 4/5” – The Progress Report – Heavy Music Headquarters ​
​
​“With “A Tale of Fire”, Omnivide have crafted a bold, layered and compelling debut album marking themselves as a worthy addition to the Heavy Metal ‘Omni’ bands/albums and to the thriving Death Metal scene in Canada. Through clever songwriting and outstanding musicianship (seriously, check out the band’s ‘Opulence’ playthrough), they combine elements familiar to the genre in an engrossing way that rewards repeat listens. It may still be early in the year, but OMNIVIDE have put forth a very strong entry for Tech/Prog Death in 2024.” – Mostly Metal

“I enjoyed A Tale of Fire, as it was lively, cerebral, and still intense to-boot with the wailing guitar leads, proggy synth section, and harsh death metal vocals. I think that people who enjoy melodic synth death metal will flip for this album. It’s got the harsher elements of Obscura and Black Daliah Murder with the musical eccentricities of Haken and Devin Townsend, something that makes for an enjoyable listen.” – Metal Epidemic​
​
​“Throughout A Tale of Fire, Omnivide showcases their musical diversity and storytelling prowess, providing one with a deeply satisfying and rewarding listening experience. From the highs of intense heaviness to the lows of emotional introspection, A Tale of Fire invites one to immerse themselves in its intricacies and complexities.” – Amplify The Noise

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
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0 Gore House Prod. – Gritty Primitive Death Metal Takes A Gory Turn In CHUNKED’s “Inhaling The Infestation” Lyric Video + New EP “Inhaling the Infestation” (CD/ Cassette Out May 2024)

  • April 4, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · CHUNKED (Gore House Productions) · Music News · Uncategorized

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 4, 2024

Gritty Primitive Death Metal Takes A Gory Turn In CHUNKED’s “Inhaling The Infestation” Lyric Video

New EP “Inhaling the Infestation” (Digital + CD/Cassette Out May 2024) From Gore House Productions

L-R: Arian Mauk (Vocals), Cole Taylor (Drums), James Stone (Bass), Dustin Mauk (Guitar)

​

Heavy and simple is one way to describe Chunked’s specific blend of death metal, it is also raw, violent, and full of skin-crawling themes. They have already released their debut album “Inhaling the Infestation” digitally and will have a physical release (CD/Cassette) coming May 3, 2024, from Gore House Productions. Right now they are releasing the lyric video for the title track, which they describe;

“Inhaling the Infestation” is a power ballad about a swarm of insects slowly taking over a human body, very painfully and meticulously. It is a well-structured and catchy track that will make your knuckles sink towards the ground and start grinding across the floor.”

Band leader and founder Arian Mauk promises a grimy experience that will compel fans to drag their knuckles on the ground, reverting to a Neanderthal-like state of de-evolution. The singles, he assures, will induce the same raw, primitive energy.

Mauk’s approach to songwriting involves an initial structural idea, hooks, moments, and tempo considerations, all channeled through the raw energy of the first four frets. With the band now performing live with a full lineup, the material has evolved to encompass the intensity of their stage presence.

The violence and brutality in tracks such as “Liquid Cranial Detonation”, “Submerged in Rotten Sewage” and “Pulsing Excrement” are sure to delight death metal fans around the world especially those who enjoy Sanguisugabogg, Torsofuck and Bodybox.

Watch and listen to the lyric video for “Inhaling the Infestation” via its premiere on Decibel Magazine HERE. ​

CD / Cassette pre-orders are available at https://store.gorehouseproductions.com/collections/chunked

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3VkWpzL​

All Digital Platforms (Bandcamp, Apple Music) – https://orcd.co/inhaling-the-infestation​

Track Listing:​
1. Pulsing Excrement (2:59)
2. Liquid Cranial Detonation (2:12)
3. Concrete Veins (1:44)
4. Inhaling the Infestation (4:04)
5. Putridity (2:53)
6. Submerged in Rotten Sewage (4:15)
Album Length: 18:16

More info: ​Gorehouseproductions.com​ | Facebook.com/ChunkedBand | Instagram.com/chunkedband​

-30-

​

—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
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0 TOLEDO DEATH FEST Announces 2024 Lineup w/ OCEANO, THE CONVALESCENCE, VISCERAL DISGORGE, ROSE FUNERAL, CASKET ROBBERY and more!

  • March 28, 2024
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Toledo DeathFest · Uncategorized

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 28, 2023

TOLEDO DEATH FEST Announces 2024 Lineup

w/ OCEANO, THE CONVALESCENCE, VISCERAL DISGORGE, ROSE FUNERAL, CASKET ROBBERY and more!

​

A destructive vortex of extreme metal returns to Toledo, OH this coming June 8th, with TOLEDO DEATH FEST announcing its 2024 lineup featuring OCEANO, THE CONVALESCENCE, VISCERAL DISGORGE, ROSE FUNERAL, CASKET ROBBERY, and more!

Hosted at Mainstreet Bar & Grill (141 Main St.), the all-ages event will be hosted with two stages of non-stop brutality from some of the midwest’s most gut-punching visceral spitting metal to plow into Toledo.

Highlights of the confirmed bands include headliners Oceano with their blast beats, sonic double bass, slow heavy breakdowns, low death metal growls, and shrieking metalcore vocals ready to annihilate the pit with their discography since 2009. The Convalescence is one of the USA’s unstoppable tour de forces, pillaging all across the globe to support their latest album “Harvesters Of Flesh And Bone”. Baltimore’s brutal death metal tyrants Visceral Disgorge bring their slamming riffs, guttural growls, and an onslaught of blast beats to savage the pit. Hailing from Cincinnati, OH, Rose Funeral brings its haunting deathcore melodies, insane blasts, and groove to tremble festival goers. Emerging from the darkest and most desolate areas of the Midwest, Casket Robbery creates its signature style of death metal by infusing horror and occult themes. Their trademark huge riffs and unstoppable grooves create the unrelenting, brutally catchy, and eerie sound that only Casket Robbery is known for.

Since its inception in 2009 by Keith Wampler, the frontman of The Convalescence and owner of The Legend Agency, the festival has showcased the talents of some of the American Midwest’s best up-and-coming metal bands. Past editions have seen past support from well-known artists such as Jungle Rot, Malevolent Creation, Filth, Signs of The Swarm and The Breathing Process among many more. The festival has been an extreme metal pilgrimage for fans living in the surrounding states of Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, and West Virginia.

Tickets are available at https://theconvalescence.bigcartel.com/product/toledodeathfest (General Admission, VIP Packages)

Event – https://www.facebook.com/events/680497694013243​

TOLEDO DEATH FEST 2024 LINEUP​
Oceano (Chicago, IL)
The Convalescence (Toledo, OH)
Visceral Disgorge (Baltimore, MD)
Rose Funeral (Cincinnati, OH)
Casket Robbery (Madison, WI)
Mutilatred (Toledo, OH)
Sea Of Treachery (Hebron, KY)
Embryonic Autopsy (Chicago, IL)
Gorepig (Jonesboro, AR)
Ignominious (Norwalk, OH)
Mutilation Barbecue (Cleveland, OH)
Goonlord (De Land, FL)
Stand Abandoned (Barnstead, NH)
Killcrown (Hastings, MI)
72 Legions (Akron, OH)
The Behest Of Serpents (Canton, OH)
Cerebral Cortex (Toledo, OH)

To follow updates for Toledo Death Fest 2024, please visit the following links:

​Facebook.com/ToledoDeathfest | Facebook.com/thelegendagency | Instagram.com/thelegendagency/​

Festival Press Materials Dropbox HERE.

Sponsors:​
Virtual PCs
Fultztron Entertainment
Michigan Metalfest
Lost In The Dark Podcast
Piercings By Arrow
Metal Devastation PR
Saga Booking and Event Management
DM3 Productions

Vendors On Site:​
Peril Hot Sauce
Crypt Culture
Doom & Groom

About: Toledo Deathfest was originally created in 2009 as a way to bring bands in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan together once a year and showcase their music to the local scene. It has continued as an annual festival featuring Local, Regional, and Underground Touring artists. In 2021 Festival Promoter Keith Wampler (The Legend Agency/The Convalescence) decided to expand the festival to multiple stages and to feature larger artists as well as a variety of underground acts with plans to grow the festival even more each year with Jungle Rot headlining 2021, Malevolent Creation headlining 2022, Signs of the Swarm headlining 2023 and now Oceano headlining 2024.

– 30 –

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

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