Tag: Canada

0 Out Now! Canada’s AxMinister Presents A Heavy Metal History Lesson With “vir fortis”

May 11, 2023
by Asher
· axminister · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 11, 2023

Out Now! Canada’s AxMinister Presents A Heavy Metal History Lesson With “vir fortis”

L – R – Bas – Drums, Nick – Vocals/Bass, Steve – Guitar
Photo Credit – Maribeth Chabot – Shootingstarr Rock & Roll Photography

History buffs assemble! Canada’s AxMinister is now streaming their fifth studio release “vir fortis”, a heavy metal-infused history lesson covering Napoleon and Vlad The Impaler. Historically accurate, this is a journey to a different time. There are two songs about Vlad and an impressive 17-minute saga about Napoleon. The first Vlad song was released last month as a lyric video single, as for the other two, AxMinister hints at what fans can expect:

““Vlad the Impaler…Son of the Dragon” studies the rich history associated with the infamous despot, as well as the myth pervading hence. “The Age of Napoleon…The Rise”, which was in the works for five years, sets the stage for the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte; this exciting study of the world that gave birth to the future Emperor, leaves us as he becomes a captain of artillery, in the French revolutionary army.”

“vir fortis” was produced, mixed, and mastered at Monolithic Productions by Tyler Williams and the EP cover artwork is an oil painting by drummer Bas von Bismark who also writes a majority of the lyrics. Bassist/vocalist Nicholas Klaus writes most of the music, with guitarist Steve Macleod contributing key song elements wherever needed. The songs are then arranged by the band collectively.

Heavy metal fans, especially those with an interest in history and battle, will not be disappointed with this album. Those who listen to Manowar, Rush, and Iron Maiden should take note.

“vir fortis” is out now as of May 11, 2023. It is recommended for fans of Megadeth, Manowar, and Judas Priest.

EP order – https://axminister.bandcamp.com

Lyric Video – Vlad The Impaler… Forests of Impalement – https://youtu.be/axGvn0_8Hbk

Track Listing:
1. The Age of Napoleon… The Rise – 17:06
2. Vlad The Impaler… Son Of The Dragon – 7:02
3. Vlad The Impaler… Forests of Impalement – 4:45
EP Length: 28:53

EP Credits:
All songs written and performed by AxMinister
Produced/Mixed/Mastered at Monolithic Productions by Tyler Williams
Member of SOCAN – yes
MAPL – Canadian Content

EP and Live Band lineup:
Nicholas Klaus – Vocals/Bass
Steve MacLeod – Guitar
Bas Von Bismark – Drums

For more info: Axminister.ca | Facebook.com/AxMinister | Twitter.com/axministertrio | Instagram.com/axminister_band |

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“From the drop of the first note, AxMinister pull their ax from stone, brandishing it mightily and powerfully as they dish out shredding sharpened riff after sharpened riff. Thrown in to the mix are face melting solos as well as ever present charging drumming as well as very solid very infectious vocals. Each of the five tracks present within this release are woven together well to provide you with a cohesive and well rounded sound that you will have a hard time getting out of your head. With The Crucible Of Sin, AxMinister gift you with five highly addictive and highly entertaining tracks that you keep coming back to.” – Cadaver Garden (2018)

“this EP (The Crucible of Sin) is just some good ol’ fashioned beer and pretzels Heavy Metal in the vein of bands like Manowar” – Metalcrypt (2018)

“The Crucible of Sin is a great thrash/traditional metal album, showing strong influences from Iron Maiden, Megadeth, Slayer and Metallica to full effect.” – Hellbound (2018)

“an exciting piece of Thrash Metal. It has a unique touch to it that allows the EP to be memorable, whilst the guitars make it very enjoyable.” – Noizze UK (2018)

“The stair-step cultural guitar to snare combinations for “The Trials of Hercules” brings out the Manowar fan in us all – while the speedy double kick locomotive aspects to closer “Sanctus Equitus Mortis” surely keep the ears pinned for a closer…It’s clear that you have a solid set of musicians and keen songwriting abilities – so if you want something a bit more dramatic and adventurous in your thrash airings, AxMinister could be that difference maker for you.” – Dead Rhetoric (2018)
—
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 MetalFest, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Toledo DeathFest)

0 RED CAIN Is On “The Great Hunt” With New Live Video Off Wheel of Time Inspired Album “NÄE’BLISS” Out June 2023

May 10, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Red Cain

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC- May 10, 2023

RED CAIN Is On “The Great Hunt” With New Live Video Off Wheel of Time Inspired Album “NÄE’BLISS” Out June 2023

L-R – Taylor Gibson (drums), Kalie Yan (bass, vocals), Evgeniy Zayarny (vocals), Samuel Ridout (guitar)

Photo Credit Zak Kelly

The hunt is on with Calgary, Canada’s Red Cain‘s last single to be released before they unleash their new album “NÄE’BLISS” on June 2nd, 2023. One of the heaviest tracks in the Red Cain repertoire “The Great Hunt” is a stomping, driven ¾ march utilizing 8-string guitars and layers and layers of bass.

“This track pushes further into the djent riffs present elsewhere on the album, yet contains all of the usual characteristics of a Red Cain anthem – lush electronic backing, soaring, aggressive vocals, and a pulsing, headbanging groove. Conceptually, within the album’s theme continuing to revolve around the “Wheel of Time” universe, “The Great Hunt” calls our Forsaken protagonists to begin the hunt for the most dangerous game – their archenemy, the world-breaking Champion of the Light – the Dragon Reborn himself. With regression to the status quo threatening, and Chaos the only antidote, will this bold move yield success – or drive the world deeper into the designs of the Wheel? Step up, heft your spear – and join The Great Hunt.” adds the band.

Watch and listen to “The Great Hunt” via its live video at https://youtu.be/Xm8OeUGVkjg

Red Cain‘s third full-length album “NÄE’BLISS” is a homage to the legendary world of Robert Jordan’s fantasy epic “The Wheel of Time” (novel/TV series). With a grimdark edge, down-tuned guitars, death and power prog metal influences, and an unrelenting march forward, “NÄE’BLISS” is a foray into the reverse side of the Wheel of Time story – that of the Forsaken, antagonists, instruments of the Great Lord of the Dark, and the brutal and captivating allure of letting Chaos reign supreme.

The band explains further:

“We are fascinated by antagonists, why they stand against the “common good”, and how they came to fill that role – and when reading the Wheel of Time, there was the same intrigue behind how the very clearly defined “evil” faction in this world justified its existence. Why did the Forsaken willingly join the Shadow? Why do some men and women want the world to burn, and the Wheel to stop spinning? Within such a carefully crafted narrative and beautifully balanced universe, there were puzzling, unexplored gaps that we were determined to delve deeper into.

And of course, fantasy is but a mirror of reality – so outside WoT lore, these questions apply equally well to the world beyond our window. Which of our idols are false, which heroes degenerate, and what history is a compendium of careful lies? It is all too easy to raise your fist against those labeled evil by the multitudes or a voice above while failing to realize you yourself are the instrument of tyranny and corruption.

We are all massive fantasy fans, and for us, Wheel of Time rubs shoulders with LOTR as a genre-defining epic fantasy series that started it all. The world of the Wheel is a brutal, compelling world with multitudes of fascinating characters, and we were particularly interested in exploring its more visceral aspects – an area that begs to be paired with heavy metal. We’ve seen some of our musical icons, like Blind Guardian, successfully go down this path, and it was magnificent to see new musical interpretations of those stories spun out by them – not to mention some bloody good fun.

Now, it is our turn to ride forward in another turn of the Wheel. Enjoy!”

Red Cain is recommended for fans of Kamelot, Symphony X, Myrath, Powerwolf, Mastodon, and The Contortionist.

“NÄE’BLISS” is due out on June 2, 2023.

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

Previous Music Videos:

We Are Chaos – https://youtu.be/YbXEV1DFjnQ

Fisher King – https://youtu.be/WaPe8mQ5uG8

Track Listing:
1. Fisher King – 5:35
2. Blight – 6:37
3. The Great Hunt – 4:09
4. We Are Chaos – 4:55
5. Sightblinder – 2:47
6. The Man Who Can’t Forget (Part I) – 2:38
7. Crane of Malkier (Part II) – 2:04
8. Red Cain – Fires of Heaven ft. James Delbridge (Lycanthro) – 8:02
Album Length: 36:52

Red Cain, from Calgary, Canada is a modern progressive metal project with Eastern European roots. They have been making waves since their first release in 2016, with award-winning music videos and concept albums “Kindred: Act I” and “Kindred: Act II”. Red Cain’s first two full albums conceptually told a sprawling story of how raw and primal ancient myth collides with modern society and human yearning toward the stars, toward perfection. The albums contained a ton of genre inspirations, from gothic rock to ambient electronica, power, black, and death metal, and were universally lauded for their inventiveness, variety, and strong conceptual content. They continue this momentum with forthcoming releases.

Red Cain is:
Evgeniy Zayarny – Vocals
Samuel Ridout – Guitars
Tyler Corbett – Guitars
Kalie Yan – Bass, Vocals
Taylor Gibson – Drums

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

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What the press is saying:

“This is a track (Sunshine (Blood Sun Empire) that infuses their progressive and power metal sound, similar to that of Symphony X and Kamelot. Alongside this, there are also faint similarities to bands like Dream Theater and even Korn. This is a nearly 6 minute track that doesn’t let up and doesn’t fear to change up its style throughout.” – Metal Injection

#10 Red Cain !earshot – The National Loud Chart For the Week Ending: Tuesday, February 9, 2021 (Earshot)

“From the proggy goodness of album opener “Kindred”, to the blast beats of “Baltic Fleet”, to the epic closer “Sunshine (Blood Sun Empire), there is something here for every fan of progressive power metal. With this being Act II in Red Cain’s Kindred body of work, I really feel as though I entered a movie theater right in the middle of an epic saga. Each song is a journey in and of itself, but each also contributes to the overall fantastic voyage. I will absolutely be purchasing Act I of this amazing tale and listen from start to finish, the way it was intended. Do yourself a favor and do the same!” – Metal Rules

“If you like your music melodic, mysterious, and gothic, with a progressive power metal base, then this is for you. This has been a joy to review and yet another band to add to my favoured list. ” – The Prog Space

“Zayarny is a powerhouse vocalist and the contortions he forces into Red Cain make for a very diverse record.. the talent behind the record is undeniable, and at the very least, Kindred proved far more creative and thought-provoking than most death metal records I’ve recently tackled. You should give it a shot — even if you’re not a big weenie..” – Angry Metal Guy

“Overall, ‘Kindred: Act II’ is an interesting mix of styles that combine together in technical wizardry to set the backdrop for the continued tales of the warrior Zalcoatl. There’s some unexpected musical influences that bubble to the surface, particularly the liberal use of electronic elements provides a futuristic, yet gothic, element to the tales. Vocally, there’s some clear inspiration from Kamelot going on here. They’re predominantly clean, but with a wide range between high pitched and deep passages. The guitar work is pretty varied as well and at times even hits a distinctly djent groove that seems to appear out of nowhere!… Fans of Kamelot and Mastodon alike will find some common ground with ‘Kindred: Act II’ (and Act I for that matter).” – Uber Rock

“These seasoned metal performers brought me to school with a clear cut album, delivered beautifully across seven tracks. The epic highs and lows of the album leave me wanting more… My hat is off to RED CAIN!” – Metal Temple

“With a flurry of progressive guitars, grandiose vocals and intriguingly wild effects, Red Cain burn brightly from the very start with the opening track, Kindred.” – Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life

—
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 Streaming Now! Canada’s SOVEREIGN COUNCIL Pave Their Own Distinct Path Through Power Metal With New EP “World On Fire”

May 4, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Sovereign Council

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 4, 2023

Streaming Now! Canada’s SOVEREIGN COUNCIL Pave Their Own Distinct Path Through Power Metal With New EP “World On Fire”

L-R – Joe Moon – Lead Guitarist & Backup Vocals, Brandon Schneider – Drummer, Lisa Thompson – Lead Vocals, Shaun Vanhooser – Bassist, Chris Thompson – Rhythm Guitarist
Photo Credit: Dark Moon Productions

Canada’s Sovereign Council embraces metal head-on, with all of its throttling guitar riffs, intense bass lines, driving drums, and fluctuating vocals that are at times guttural and at others more mellow and introspective. They have two albums under their belts thus far and the third “World On Fire” is out on May 5th, for those looking for the next thing in power metal. The EP was written and composed from a place of love and vulnerability to show a different side of the band who have adjusted their lineup and musical trajectory since their last album “Laniakea”. They explain:

“We feel that the sound we have created here is still at its core very “Sovereign Council” but has matured and developed into something greater. We are extremely proud of this new sound and cannot wait to see how people respond to it. We have another set of songs nearly completed as well; these new songs continue our new direction and add another new edge as well as a heavier feel. You’ll have to stick around for the next release to find out what that edge is.”

For this EP, the band picked five of their strongest tracks which follow the same feel and give listeners a cohesive listening experience through a range of emotions and imagery ranging from inspiring, motivational lyrics to darker subject matter.

The EP was produced by guitarist Joe Moon; mixed and mastered by Silver Wings Studios and the EP cover artwork was done by Martin Trottier. Melodic and powerful, Sovereign Council puts a distinct spin on progressive power metal. They will be enjoyed by those who have Lacuna Coil, Evergrey, and Evanescence in their rotation.

Listen to “World On Fire” in full via its EP stream premiere on MetalInsider HERE.

“World On Fire” is due out May 5, 2023, and available for pre-order at https://sovereigncouncil.bandcamp.com

Track Listing:
1. World On Fire – 4:43
2. The Wait – 4:24
3. Aberration – 4:00
4. Breathe You In – 3:34
5. Of The Ashes – 4:13
EP Length: 20:52

For more info: Facebook.com/SovereignCouncilpage | Twitter.com/sovcouncil | Instagram.com/sovereigncouncil

– 30 –

““World On Fire” is simply an excellent EP all around. Every track has something unique to offer and it is easy to imagine any of the five songs becoming a favourite depending on the listener. The melodies are catchy, the production is clean and the talent is immense. In particular, I would recommend this release to fans of bands with a more modern take on symphonic metal, such as recent Within Temptation, Beyond The Black, Dark Horse | White Horse and Phantom Elite to name a few. I’m excited to see what comes next for SOVEREIGN COUNCIL. They have certainly made a fan out of me.” – Female Fronted Power

“World on Fire marks a welcome return for Sovereign Council, showing a band with a will to break genre boundaries” – Metal Observer

—
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 MetalFest, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Toledo DeathFest)

0 Moncton’s DINER DRUGS Release Video For Punchy, Groovy “This War” Off Upcoming EP “42” + Tour Dates (NL, PEI, NB, NS) w/ CANCER BATS

May 4, 2023
by Asher
· Diner Drugs · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 4, 2023

Moncton’s DINER DRUGS Release Video For Punchy, Groovy “This War” Off Upcoming EP “42”

Tour Dates w/ Cancer Bats, Thousand Knives

Diner Drugs is a four-piece stoner metal punk crew, born out of a desire to defeat the boredom of east coast living. Diner Drugs is fast, loud and are always keen to turn up the heat with catchy choruses and deep vocal harmonies while sticking to their deep stoner metal roots. They are ready to hit the road this spring and have a flashy new single “This War” coming out to get fans excited. The single is the first look at a new EP that will be coming out this year. The band explains in detail:

“This is the first single off of our latest EP titled “42”. We are proud of this loud and driving track, complete with catchy choruses and an epic, heavy ending. This song features powerful vocals, with lyrics warning about the dangers of assuming things will work out for the best, without cautiously preparing for the worst. So much hard work from so many people went into this, it’s loud and fast and we hope everyone digs it.”

The tour this spring will take Diner Drugs all over the east coast of Canada. With relaxed attitudes and groovy riffs, they enjoy bringing fun metal to people and enticing them to headbang. Loud and energetic is their goal, and their lyrics come from both personal experience and witnessing the experiences of others. They live in a have-not town, so they are more than familiar with hard times. They draw from these troubles for inspiration and hope to maybe help anyone stuck in these situations feel a little less alone in their battles.

It’s loud, fast, meaningful metal, and according to the band the song means a lot more to them this time around and they feel it reflects in the upcoming record. They are recommended for fans of Cancer Bats, Dead Quiet, and Mokomakai.

Watch and listen to “This War” at https://youtu.be/XwLLFLMmrzU

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3p4Ub9H

The EP “42” is due out via BatSkull Records later this year.

Tour Dates:
May 12 – St. John’s, NL – The Deck
May 13 – St. John’s, NL – The Abbey (All Ages)
May 13 – St. John’s, NL – The Deck
May 24 – Charlottetown, PEI – Trailside w/ Cancer Bats, Thousand Knives
May 25 – Moncton, NB – Xeroz w/ Cancer Bats, Thousand Knives
May 26 – Halifax, NS – The Seahorse w/ Cancer Bats, Thousand Knives
May 27 – Sydney, NS – Curling Club w/ Cancer Bats, Thousand Knives

For more info:
SheSaidFeckRecords.com/diner-drugs-epk
Facebook.com/DinerDrugs
Twitter.com/DinerDrugs
Youtube
Instagram.com/DinerDrugs

Management – She Said Feck – shesaidfeckrecords@gmail.com

– 30 –

“Jack Of All Trades” uses clever drum timing between guitar riffs which assaults the senses in different ways and rattles your eardrums like an off-balanced washing machine. The skate punk style writing of this track will have you wondering if NOFX and Suicidal Tendencies had a baby.” – Sarah Hellingwerf, The East

“Diner Drugs is one of those “f&*k all” bands that play heavy, fast and dirty rock.” – Jamie Robash, Divide and Conquer Music

—
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 MetalFest, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Toledo DeathFest)

0 WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA – National Final! – May 13th – One Band To Rule Them All and Play Wacken Open Air 2023

May 3, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Wacken Metal Battle Canada

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 3, 2023

WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA – National Final! – May 13th – One Band To Rule Them All and Play Wacken Open Air 2023

w/ EATEN BY SHARKS, STRIGAMPIRE, NECHT – Guest Headliner WHIPLASH, Guest Opener KORROSIVE

After months of battles across the country, Wacken Metal Battle Canada is proud to announce its down to three bands for the national final being held in Toronto, ON on May 13th at Lee’s Palace.

Beating out over sixty participating bands, the final three are EATEN BY SHARKS (St. Catharines, ON), STRIGAMPIRE (Trois-Rivières, QC), and NECHT (Calgary, AB). One band will be crowned champion and represent Canada at the international battle that hosts 29 other participating countries at one of the world’s most prestigious stages and the largest metal festival Wacken Open Air (Aug 4 -6), which has an attendance of over 80,000 people, and held in Wacken, Germany for now over 30 years.

The national final will also host a special guest headliner, the legendary thrash band WHIPLASH along with openers Toronto’s Korrosive.

“The anticipation is really building now. We are doing our very best to give these incredible finalists the opportunity they deserve and the stage to showcase their craft. With kick-ass guest bands and a stellar line-up of judges, in the name of Canadian metal, this will be one to remember!” adds Wacken Metal Battle Canada organizer JJ Tartaglia.

For the national final, all three bands will be judged by experienced industry professionals on various categories of professionalism and musicianship for only one to be selected to represent Canada on the world stage at Wacken Open Air.

Guest Judges:
Pedro Almeida (A&P Reacts)
Antonio Almeida (A&P Reacts)
Noel Peters (Inertia Entertainment)
Tim Henderson (BraveWords)
Thorsteinn Kolbeinsson (Wacken Metal Battle Iceland)
Sarah Lutz (Looters)
Kevin Michaud (Front Row Promotions)
Luc Laine (CFLX 95.5 FM – Alerte Metallique)
Rae Chatten (Rock’n Roam, Live Nation)
Mark Tremblay (Metal on Metal Podcast)
JJ Tartaglia (Wacken Metal Battle Canada)

Event Info – https://www.leespalace.com/event/wacken-metal-battle-presents-whiplash-plus-finalists

About:

WMBC has been on pause since 2019, due to the Covid pandemic, and has hosted battles across Canada from 2013 until 2019, with one skip year in 2017.

Previous winners have been The Slyde (Toronto, ON – 2019), Centuries of Decay (Toronto, ON – 2018), Profaner (Hamilton, ON – 2016), Vesperia (Toronto, ON – 2015), Mutank (Montreal, QC – 2014), Crimson Shadows (Toronto, ON – 2013).

Wacken Metal Battle Canada Trailer – https://youtu.be/b55Fh5Vo64k

2023 battles were hosted in Vancouver, BC, Edmonton, AB, Calgary, AB, Toronto, ON, Hamilton, ON, Ottawa, ON, Montreal, QC, and Quebec City, QC.

Wacken Metal Battle Canada is part of an international competition that sees bands from across the country battle each other for the chance of winning their spot among 29 other countries’ champions, and represent Canada in an international battle of the bands at the world’s largest outdoor metal festival: Wacken Open Air. The battles have been hosted at the festival for over a decade giving independent bands the opportunity to showcase their talents to an international audience along with the chance to win multiple prizes.

How it works:
Participating cities will host qualifying rounds plus a city final organized by a local city concert promoter where one band will move forward to the Canadian national final (date and city to be determined). The winner of the national final will move on to perform at the Wacken Open Air 2023 and compete against the winners of 29 other countries in a final global battle. All bands will be judged during battle rounds by respected local music industry representatives.

Rules for participation: https://metalbattle.ca/rules.html

Links:
Metal-Battle.com
MetalBattle.ca
Facebook.com/MetalBattleCanada.Official
Twitter.com/MetalBattleCan
Instagram.com/MetalBattleCanada.Official

– 30 –

Media Partners:
Bravewords
Metal-Rules
Absolute Underground
BrokenNeckRadio
V13
Metal Devastation Radio
Rich Embury (internationally syndicated DJ)

Promoter Partners:
Boonsdale Records
Dungeonworks Productions
The Invisible Orange
Big Nate Productions
ConcertWorks

0 MASSACRE and NARCOTIC WASTELAND Announce Canadian Madness Tour

April 28, 2023
by Asher
· Massacre · Music News · Narcotic Wasteland

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 28, 2023

MASSACRE and NARCOTIC WASTELAND Announce Canadian Madness Tour

Photo Credit – Andrea Roberts

Massacre and Narcotic Wasteland are excited to announce that they will be trekking north for the Canadian Madness Tour this summer! The tour kicks off on Thursday, August 17th, 2023 at Piranha Bar in Montreal QC, followed by The Rockpile in Toronto ON on Friday, August 18th, and finally, the Brass Monkey in Ottawa ON on Saturday, August 19th.

As you may already know, Massacre and Narcotic Wasteland are two of the most influential and talented bands in the metal scene today. They have been thrilling audiences all over the world with their intense and powerful performances, and now they are coming to Canada to give their fans an unforgettable experience.

The Canadian Madness Tour promises to be an epic night of metal and mayhem, showcasing the best of Massacre and Narcotic Wasteland’s music. You can expect to hear some of their biggest hits, as well as some new and exciting material that will leave you wanting more.

Tickets for the tour will be available starting Friday, April 28th, 2023 at 11 am. Don’t miss your chance to see these two legendary bands in action. Get your tickets early and secure your spot for what is sure to be one of the most memorable tours of the year.

Tour Dates:

8/17/23 – Piranha Bar – Montreal, QC – Ticket Info

8/18/23 – The Rockpile – Toronto, ON – Ticket Info

8/19/23 – Brass Monkey Ottawa ON – Ticket Info

Narcotic Wasteland Singles:

Morality and the Wasp – https://youtu.be/fXThLKTP-xI

The Best Times Have Passed – https://youtu.be/U6kB087hGyY

Victims of The Algorithm – https://youtu.be/KEGN0iGR1Uo

Digital – https://orcd.co/nwvota

Massacre Singles:

Behind The Serpent’s Curse Feat. Anders Odden of Cadaver – https://youtu.be/AeQE7Jtl1EA

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3Az5gST

For more info:

Narcotic Wasteland – https://www.narcoticwasteland.com

Massacre – https://linktr.ee/MASSACREofficial

– 30 –

0 Rockshots Records – Canada’s WALK WITH TITANS’ New Single Calls Upon On Their Hero “Herakles”; Debut Album “Olympian Dystopia” (Greek Myths Meet Power Metal) Out May 2023

April 28, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Walk With Titans

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 28, 2023

Rockshots Records – Canada’s WALK WITH TITANS’ New Single Calls Upon On Their Hero “Herakles”

Debut Album “Olympian Dystopia” (Greek Myths Meet Power Metal) Out May 2023

Photo Credit – Dani Rod – Above the Sky Studios

Presenting epic power metal with a twist of Greek Mythology, Montreal, Canada’s Walk With Titans will be releasing their debut album “Olympian Dystopia” on May 26th, 2023 via Rockshots Records.

Today, the band shares the album’s opening track and second single “Herakles”. It’s a track about the Greek Hero and is a straightforward metal hymn in which Walk With Titans channel their inner Manowar.

Watch and listen to the video for “Herakles” at https://youtu.be/3I3cQG9F7Fo

Efficient, epic, well executed, heavy, and mythical, this is what power metal fans will discover from 50 minutes of Walk With Titans’ first full-length “Olympian Dystopia” brought forth by Nikko Cyr (drums), Nick Maugy (rhythm guitar), Louis Jacques (lead guitar) (ex-Blackguard), Lydz Grondin (bass), and Jonathan Vézina (vocals & orchestrations).

Guitarist Louis Jacques adds:

“It’s a power metal album without compromising the epic side. I think listeners will realize that and enjoy it. We made this album during the pandemic and it kept us sane, we hope fans will find the same joy in listening to it as we had to make it! We bring some ancient Greek Myths to the forefront like Eurydice and Herakles, while others are more subtle like ‘Edge of Time’, which is Khronos representing time eating us all. Other tracks on the record we made as an analogy for societal issues.”

Walk With Titans is recommended for fans of Angra, Stratovarius, and Rhapsody of Fire.

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

Lyric Video – “Seven Against Thebes” – https://youtu.be/B8RxVmKbLKY

Track Listing:
1. Herakles (4:08)
2. Edge of Time (4:34)
3. Gods of the Pantheon (5:53)
4. As Titans Fall (4:36)
5. Lost Ways (4:28)
6. Final Dawn (5:31)
7. Gift of Fire feat. Renato Osório (5:38) – Guest guitar solo by Renato Osório (Atomic Elephant, ex-Hibria)
8. Lost Paradise (5:17)
9. Seven Against Thebes (4:16)
10. Eurydice (5:46)
Album Length: 50:22

Walk With Titans is:
Drums : Nikko Cyr
Rythm Guitar : Nick Maugy
Lead Guitar : Louis Jacques
Bass Guitar : Lydz Grondin
Vocals & Orchestrations : Jonathan Vézina

Album Credits:
Album Artwork: Jean-Michel Lima
Logo and album cover layout: Jivago Raymond
Booklet Layout: Simon Bertrand
Recordings: Nick Maugy and Louis Jacques, and vocals were at Silverwings Studio by Jonathan Lefrançois
Mix and Mastering: Francis Gagné from Progressive Acoustics
Drums on the Album: Martin Plante (session drummer)
Music by Walk With Titans
Guest solo on ”Gift of Fire” by Renato Osório (ex-Hibria)
Lyrics: Jonathan Vézina, Louis Jacques, and David Zinay (lost paradise, final dawn)

For more info: Rockshots.eu | Facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064909415917 | Instagram.com/walk_with_titans

– 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 MetalFest, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Toledo DeathFest)

0 Canada’s MEDEVIL Announces New Vocalist To Lineup; New Album Out “Mirror in the Darkness”

April 27, 2023
by Asher
· Medevil · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 27, 2023

Canada’s MEDEVIL Announces New Vocalist To Lineup

New Album Out “Mirror in the Darkness” In Tribute To Drummer’s Passing

Photo Credit – IDFK Design & Photography

Earlier this April, Medevil took the stage at a sold-out Hyperspace MetalFest in Vancouver, BC with the support of vocalist Eric Willmott (Apprentice, ex-Meridius) to fill in for the band’s main singer Liam Collingwood. Taking the stage and fans by storm during that event, today, the band announces they will continue future performances will Wilmott.

“Liam Collingwood is still a part of Medevil and will be continuing to work with us both creatively and in various singing roles on the upcoming album(s). Eric Willmott will be singing for us at all live performances, and is expected to sing as the lead vocalist on the upcoming studio albums as well.” adds the band.

Medevil recently released their new album “Mirror in the Darkness” on April 7th. The record is a big step up from their debut full-length “Conductor of Storms”, with a more progressive and ambitious direction than before. The album is also a tribute to drummer Chris Malcolmson who passed away after its recording. The songs on this new album have much more variety, and a lot more to offer, which should accommodate a wider array of music tastes from metal fans or fans of music in general. The band is very confident that fans of the first record will enjoy this one and they explain further:

“‘Mirror in the Darkness’ is our boldest step into different musical stylings than ever before. It is a very dark-sounding album mood-wise and can be described as ‘progressive power metal’ in most areas. Each song throughout sounds completely unique from the other, bringing out a new metal flavour unheard from the previous tracks. We also experimented with Drop-C tuning here on a couple songs, adding to the dark sound. While it is not a concept album, the lyrics throughout have consistent themes about heavy personal issues such as depression and negativity you feel in life.”

Their style on “Conductor of Storms” was heavily inspired by the classic ‘80s heavy metal bands, but for “Mirror in the Darkness” they started looking at other heavy metal influences within the progressive metal sphere such as Opeth, Porcupine Tree, and Mastodon. You can hear this influence on tracks like ‘No Peace in Rest’, ‘Dead Before Birth’ and ‘Veiled’ where they make use of longer arrangement structures, odd time signatures, and atmospheric soundscapes.

Intended to be listened to in a single sitting from front to back, Medevil spent a lot of time considering the flow of the album, from fast and energetic to dark and brooding, so there is a lot of variety that will come from a fully engaged listen. Dedicated to late drummer Chris Malcolmson, it is recommended for fans of Metal Church, Accept, and Baroness.

Listen to “Mirror in the Darkness” at Medevil.bandcamp.com, Spotify

Lyric Video – Among Thieves – https://youtu.be/sC55M5Cy-3M

Upcoming Events:
June 9 – The Wise – Vancouver, BC w/ Iron Kingdom

Track Listing:
1. Dead Before Birth (6:18)
2. Among Thieves (5:00)
3. Pray for Me (6:35)
4. The Signal (7:22)
5. Smoke and Mirrors (1:48)
6. Weight of the Crown (4:18)
7. Mirror in the Darkness (8:31)
8. Gateways (2:41)
9. Veiled (3:56)
10. No Peace in Rest (9:23)
Album Length: 55:58

Album Recording Lineup:
Liam Collingwood – Vocals
Gary Cordsen – Lead Guitar
Brett Gibbs – Rhythm Guitar, Lead Guitar & Backup Vocals
Eric Wesa – Bass & Backup Vocals
Chris Malcolmson – Drums

For more info: Facebook.com/medevilband | Twitter.com/MedevilMusic | YouTube | Instagram.com/medevilofficial

About: Medevil is a highly energetic, fast-paced metal band known for its tight songwriting, intense stage presence, and roaring vocals. They are one of the few metal bands coming out of Chilliwack BC and hold that title proud as they have earned much praise and respect since their inception in 2014. As one of the 6 national finalists of the 2015 Wacken Metal Battle Canada, they are becoming more and more renowned throughout the country; their fame attaining them a following in their local town and across through to Vancouver.

Their music could be described as “power thrash” with half of their set being chorus-driven, and the other half focusing on blistering fast riffs. Influences for the band include Iron Maiden, Megadeth, and Metal Church. Their fast but catchy songs keep the crowd chanting throughout the set, and leave them wanting more. Liam Collingwood, the band’s singer, keeps the band image in theme with the songs while on stage and will wear thematic outfits when the mood demands it.

The band was founded on January 13, 2014, by Eric Wesa (bass), as well as brothers Liam (vocals) and Ross Collingwood (drums). It only took two months after the band’s inception before the boys found the ultimate guitar duo they were looking for, Gary Cordsen and Brett Gibbs. Once the lineup was solidified, they wasted no time performing shows and begin their musical journey. As a band, Medevil has two common goals; to explore their musical talents, and continue performing live for their fast-growing fanbase.

– 30 –

“At fifty six minutes in length, some listeners may be daunted by the sheer amount of Medevil they are being asked to absorb, but I can quite honestly say that there is not one second wasted here as the band deliver one of the most compelling, absorbing albums I’ve heard in quite some while. Congratulations to all involved.” – Sentinel Daily

“Medevil – Pray For Me – Six great new prog tracks you really must listen to!” – Prog Mag (March 6, 2023)

“a heavy onslaught of aggressive and menacing metal with moments of progressive diversion and musical exploration.” – Metal Roos

“The band has expanded their approach from their debut, writing songs that are more complex and progressive. Tracks like “Dead Before Birth” are intense and bombastic, while songs such as “Pray For Me” are mellower and more expansive. There are a few shorter numbers, but Medevil prefer extended compositions, with several tracks in the 6 to 9 minute range. The Udo Dirkschneider-esque vocals may be polarizing, but the songs are engaging and the musicianship impressive.” – Heavy Music Headquarters

“There are more twists that catch you off guard here (Dead Before Birth), and is the perfect way to kick off “Mirror in the Darkness”. It’s probably their most complicated song rhythmically, and while they didn’t originally write this thinking it should be complex, it seemed to happen naturally with the riffs they were coming up with at the time. Somehow despite that complexity, it’s also extremely catchy.” – First Angel Media

“The sequel doesn’t disappoint in any way. The listening pleasure increases with every single track. Nothing is veiled (“Veiled”) here, the bandwidth of musical ability is lived out openly. Who or what to emphasize here is up to you. I recommend “Pray for Me”, “Weight of the Crown” and “Veiled” as check out tips. With the mirror of darkness you can see the direction: it’s going forward!! My rating is a full 10 Hellfire points.” – Hellfire Magazin

“Medevil has put their thinking caps on for this because there are some really interesting songs on this. There’s something for everyone on this so it will appeal universally to metalheads everywhere. Something is happening in Canada because this is about the tenth release I’ve reviewed, and they are all of high quality and pretty diverse. The question is – what will Medevil do next? They’re going to have to go some to top this. Score: 9/10” – My Global Mind

“Medevil’s overall sound is often interesting, like a weird mash-up of Metal Church and 90s prog-metal acts like Wicked Maraya. Cool ideas populate nearly every song and there are a collection of killer moments that hook the ear ” – Angry Metal Guy

“Overall, a heavy onslaught of aggressive and menacing metal with moments of progressive diversion and musical exploration.” – Metal Gods Tv

0 Canada’s FALL OF EARTH Is Now Streaming Intriguing Hybrid Album “From The Ashes” + May Show Dates w/ Allegaeon

April 21, 2023
by Asher
· Fall of Earth · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 21, 2023

Canada’s FALL OF EARTH Is Now Streaming Intriguing Hybrid Album “From The Ashes”

+ Show Dates w/ Allegaeon (Edmonton May 21st, Calgary May 22nd)

Photo Credit – Christopher Wood – Listen Media, www.listenmedia.ca

Fall of Earth, based in Edmonton, Alberta, is a hybrid metal band led by the growls, screams, and soaring clean vocals of Inuit frontman Alex Rye, who captivates every audience member with his energy and showmanship. The flying fingers of axe slinger Brody Bauer produce a dizzying array of sounds that regularly elicits screams of rapture from the audience. The progressive and primal low end is provided by bass wielder Aaron Winklmeier, as he muscles his way (both literally and figuratively) around the stage. Brendan Meilleur brings the elite combination of high-energy drum fills and expressive grooves, all while contributing vocal harmonies. This intrepid quartet already has one solid release under their belts and now they have returned to deliver another – “From The Ashes”. They get into the details:

“The album is a consistent ride full of ups and downs, with no breaks. We’ve taken our heavy sections and made them heavier, and taken our softer sections and made them more impactful. We have carefully calculated all the dynamics and structures of each song so each second of every track serves a purpose. This record has pieces of us personally etched into the music, so we could share who we are and what our minds look like on an audio basis. As far as the listening experience goes, with all this being said, we hope for our fans to feel the love and importance that music has had on our lives, and pass that onto them through our own interpretation.”

Fall Of Earth is a play on words that reflects their core belief that the world is experiencing a multitude of issues including climate change, war, and mass extinctions that is leading us all to a darker place as a society. The band hopes to use the power of music to help the world recover. “From The Ashes” was produced, mixed, and mastered by Diego Fernandez at Oracle Recording Studios, and the album artwork was done by the band. It is recommended for those who enjoy Trivium, Mastodon, and Gojira.

“From The Ashes” is now available as of April 21, 2023 at https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/fallofearth/from-the-ashes

Lyric Video – “Block Out The Sun” at https://youtu.be/zdjISmh9kYA

Upcoming Show Dates:
May 21 – Edmonton, AB – Starlite Room w/ Allegaeon, The Judge The Juror, Ages of Ashes
Mat 22 – Calgary, AB – Dickens w/ Allegaeon, Whorrify, Wych
Aug 6 – Drumheller, AB – Loud As Hell Festival w/ Jungle Rot, The Convalescence, Pound, Wormwitch, W.O.R., Nomad

Track Listing:
1. Medusa (8:25)
2. The Dead And Soon To Be (5:54)
3. Block Out The Sun (4:24)
4. Path To Self Destruction (6:40)
5. Crossroads (9:35)
6. From The Ashes (5:14)
7. Shores Of War (5:49)
8. Purgatory (6:00)
9. Into The Woods (6:33)
Album Length: 58:39

Fall of Earth is:
Alex Rye – Lead Vocals
Brodie Bauer – Guitar, Vocals
Brendan Meilleur – Drums, Vocals
Aaron Winklmeier – Bass, Vocals

For more info: Fallofearthband.com | Facebook.com/FallOfEarthBand | Twitter.com/FallofEarthBand | Instagram.com/fallofearthband

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“Fresh Tracks: Fall of Earth offers a smorgasboard of metal on From the Ashes… What if a band took numerous metal genres and combined them to form a monstrous kaiju? This is the modus operandi of Edmonton’s Fall of Earth. Known more succinctly as “hybrid metal,” Fall of Earth’s sound encompasses death, thrash, progressive, metalcore; you name it, they have it cranked to 11″ – Edmonton Journal

“It is an extreme variety of the form we get here, and one that at the core level is defined by seamless transitions between extreme metal, thrash metal and power metal. But in between we also get quirkier parts more aligned with progressive metal, and more interestingly from a progressive point of view we also get a liberal array of acoustic and semi-acoustic passages and interludes with a more delicate and atmospheric laden style, form and orientation. The vocals come with the same amount of versatility, with harsh and melodic lead vocals being the main forms used. A production to seek out by those with an interest in a powerful and vibrant variety of extreme progressive metal expanded with a liberal array of delicate and atmospheric laden interludes.” – Progressor

“The nine songs present some real diversity in the genre by embracing several different approaches” – Metal Temple

““Medusa,” hits hard and powerful a song that immediately grabs the listener by the throat and never lets go.” – The Median Man

“Fall of Earth are gradually gaining more and more of the city spotlight” – E-Know

“Fall of Earth, is bolting through the scene with their magnificent stage presence and performance. High energy and a sure crowd-pleaser that will leave you wanting more. I’ll admit, these guys blew my mind! I’m a big fan now for sure! Some awesome individuals as well that genuinely show a passion for their craft and a desire to deliver a live show you won’t forget!” – Heavy Metal A Way of Life

—
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 MetalFest, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Toledo DeathFest)

0 Canada’s PHAETON’s Now Streaming Instrumental Prog Space Adventure “Between Two Worlds”

April 20, 2023
by Asher
· Music News · Phaeton

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 20, 2023

Canada’s PHAETON’s Now Streaming Instrumental Prog Space Adventure “Between Two Worlds”

L-R – Colin Righton – Drums & Percussion, Daniel Airth – Lead & Rhythm Guitars, Kevin Thiessen – Lead & Rhythm Guitars, Keyboards, Ferdy Belland – Electric & Fretless Bass
Photo by Julian Bueckert

Get ready to soar through the cosmos with Canada’s Phaeton and their second expansive album “Between Two Worlds”. They anticipate taking their listeners through space and time and feel a complete visceral release that can only be found through progressive metal. They consider this full-length to be a major step up for them and have focused on being sharp and clever to grab people’s ears with melody lines of the twin guitars instead of vocals. They continue to share their excitement for the release:

“We pushed ourselves as musicians, we pushed ourselves as instrumentalists, and we pushed ourselves as a unit to create something that had to at least be on par with the first album – and we surpassed all our expectations. We’re hoping that fans of prog-metal find something enjoyable in these tunes and will urge them into repeat listening, and we hope all the twists and turns and corners and swerves we’ve woven together will surprise and delight. And with us re-energized for live performance, we aim to convince the world that you can say so much…without saying a word.”

There is certainly no ‘sophomore slump’ happening with “Between Two Worlds”, which will accompany listeners on an emotional journey – the classic goal of all instrumental progressive metal. This release is just a taste of what’s to come from Phaeton, who has more material being written.

Phaeton emerged virtually fully formed from the start. As soon as they realized they were onto something explosive and exciting, they followed the blazing comet to the final impact, splitting the hardened crust of progressive metal complacency and bursting forth the white-hot magma of fresh reinvention. “Between Two Worlds” is recommended for fans of Opeth, Gojira, and Meshuggah.

“Between Two Worlds” can be heard in full via its full-stream album premiere on TheProgSpace HERE.

“Between Two Worlds” is due out April 21st, 2023, and available for pre-order at Phaetonband.bandcamp.com

Band playthrough – “Monsoon” – https://youtu.be/-sRzrejyHuA

Track Listing:
1. Predestination – 4:57
2. Oceans of Time – 6:44
3. Terra Australis – 4:42
4. Monsoon – 6:06
5. Refraction – 4:48
6. Geomorphic – 4:51
7. Magma Chamber – 6:09
8. Between Two Worlds – 9:21
Album Length: 47:40

For more info: Facebook.com/Phaetonband | Instagram.com/phaetonband | Twitter.com/phaetonband

About: PHAETON was formed in Kimberley, BC in March 2017 by Kevin Thiessen (lead & rhythm guitar), Daniel Airth (lead & rhythm guitar), Colin Righton (drums & percussion), and Ferdy Belland (electric & fretless bass). Combining technically ferocious compositions of modern metal with the ambitious song-arrangement mindset of classic prog-rock, PHAETON (named for the theoretical proto-planet which collided with Ancient Earth during the Primordial Era) stands alone in the wilderness of British Columbia with their unique approach to instrumental prog-metal.

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

Discography
2018 – Self Titled – LP
2023 – Between Two Worlds – LP

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“Top-tier instrumental prog-metal-math music from the East Kootenay region performed by a quartet of veteran musicians.” – Stuart Derdeyn (The Vancouver Sun)

“The sound on all seven tracks is huge and if there was a “best sounding hammer-ons” award then March of the Synthetics could be a contender.” – Stuart Derdeyn (The Vancouver Sun)

“An epic Progressive Metal listening experience.” – Trevor Hatter (BeatRoute Magazine)

“This badass band makes a devastating impact with their high velocity musical assault.” – Time Lord (Progarchy)

“A sparkling, sizzling debut from PHAETON, taking us on a futuristic musical journey, with deep roots in the ancient past.” – Stephen Conrad (Progressive Rock Fanatics)

—
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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