Tag: ep

0 Out Now! Canadian Stoner Doom Rock Z-COCOON’s New EP “Angels” + Lyric Video “Dr. Crane”

June 6, 2025
by Asher
· Z-Cocoon

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 6, 2025

Out Now! Canadian Stoner Doom Rock Z-COCOON’s New EP “Angels”

L to R: Marc Zolla (Guitar/Vocals), Michel Paradis (Drums), John Burton (Bass)

Montreal, Canada’s Z-Cocoon has unveiled their new EP “Angels”, out now as of June 6th, 2025, via Earache Digital Distro. This third EP is the first full band release from Z-Cocoon, which Marc Zolla founded as a solo endeavour in 2017 under the previous moniker Pink Cocoon. Now a power trio with Michel Paradis (Drums) and John Burton (Bass), are prepared to offer electrically-charged heavy music with savage guitar jabs, rockin’ blues, and hot solos.

Fans can expect a three-track EP that is very energetic and sounds exactly like what’s recorded. The guitar solos are very bluesy yet metal-sounding, and are contrasted with catchy melodic vocals, reminiscent of DIO or Pentagram. “Angels” is a mix of heavy blues meets doom metal, meets rock n roll. Heavy grooving riffs and dark vocals with slashing swinging solos. Lyrically inspired by comics and personal experiences.

“We are extremely excited to release our new EP, Angels, to the world! It’s the first recordings that were performed as a band, and everything recorded was mixed in-house at Casa Cocoon. Very proud of the outcome. We have a lot more music coming after this EP, and we can’t wait to keep this cocoon train rolling. If you’re into the classics such as Dio, Sabbath, Deep Purple, or blues guys such as Hendrix, Trower, Stevie Ray, or just dig stoner rock/ doom metal but looking for something a little different, THEN TAKE A LISTEN AND PUT IT LOUD!” adds Zolla.

Following the “Angels” EP, Z-Cocoon will have an album worth of music and more that will be recorded and released.

Z-Cocoon‘s new EP “Angels” is recommended for fans of Black Sabbath, Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Pentagram.

Digital EP – https://earache.lnk.to/Angels

Lyric Video – “Dr. Crane” at https://youtu.be/xw12ONGjjxs

Track Listing:
1. Dr. Crane – 4:17
2. Truth Don’t Matter – 3:42
3. For My Life – 6:37
Album Length: 14:36

EP Credits:
Recorded and mixed by Marc Zolla.
Mastered by Kent Stump (Crystal Clear Sound/WoFat)
EP artwork by Camille Grenier.
Member of SOCAN
Canadian Content – MAPL

Band Lineup:
Guitar/Vocals: Marc Zolla
Bass: John Burton
Drums: Michel Paradis

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

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“Z-Cocoon is firmly grounded in blues-heavy stoner rock, it also shows an awareness of other sides of rock and hip-hop that often the sub-genre completely walls itself off from. Little things like short interjections from the backing vocals, a willingness to put vocals ahead of guitars, and a thick-as-fuck kick drum sound — tweaks like that combine with the Sabbathian riffs and dynamic vocals for a pretty addictive listen.” – Invisible Oranges

“This EP does a great job of showcasing Zolla’s chops as a songwriter and as a performer. I personally find Zolla to be a great vocalist, and each of the tracks on here allow him to flex his mid-to-high range voice and sort of nasally cadence. I love the way he adds a rasp into his voice.” – Where Strides the Behemoth

Second song – Just Tell Me – has an “Audioslave” quality to it with Marc’s vocals and some of the music that appears at the start. However, Marc switches things up a bit and plays some classic “Hard Rock” melodies and superb vocals for the standout song on the EP. – Outlaws of the Sun Blog

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0 VORTEX Unleashes “When Humans Defy the Void” Off New EP “Alien Realms” Out April 2025 + Eastern Canada Tour w/ France’s XAON (ON, QC, NB)

March 4, 2025
by Asher
· Music News · Vortex

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 4, 2025

VORTEX Unleashes “When Humans Defy the Void” Off New Orchestral Blackened Death EP “Alien Realms” Out April 2025

Eastern Canada Tour w/ France’s XAON (ON, QC, NB)

L-R – Simon Desjardins (Bass), Mathieu Duguay (Guitars, Orchestrations), Alexandre Labrie (Vocals), Dany Lévesque (Guitars), Olivier Harrisson (Drums)
Photo Credit – Giuseppe Calvinisti

Orchestral blackened death metal outfit Vortex has emerged from the void with their most ambitious release with their next concept record “Alien Realms”, set for release on April 11th, 2025, alongside the first single “When Humans Defy the Void”. With this release, they also announce eastern Canada tour dates with France’s XAON for April followed by European dates in October and November. They comment on the single:

“This song is a melodic assault, blending thrash-driven verses, hyper-melodic choruses, and an epic finale, all immersed in grand, sweeping orchestrations. Bold and daring, humans leave Earth in search of intelligent extraterrestrial life. This track is divided into three distinct sections: the thrashy, aggressive verses; the ultra-melodic choruses; and the glorious, epic ending.”

The band further explains that “Alien Realms” is a natural progression from their previous work. They’ve enhanced the orchestral elements while pushing deeper into blackened death metal territory. The EP explores humanity’s venture into space in search of intelligent life, though what they discover isn’t quite what they expected.

Known for their ability to seamlessly blend technical prowess with emotional depth, Vortex promises performances that showcase both crushing intensity and melodic sophistication. This can be witnessed at one of their live shows or felt through the song “When Humans Defy the Void”. They are recommended for fans of Septicflesh, Shadow of Intent, and Fleshgod Apocalypse.

Listen to “When Humans Defy the Void” at the following links:

YouTube – https://youtu.be/LRrpmT4Jaek

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/4inCj0i

Track Listing:
1. When Humans Defy the Void – 5:03
2. Haunting the Abyss – 5:26
3. Ripping the threads of Reality – 4:10
4. Where Wonders Dwell – 3:00
EP Length: 17:40

Symphony For The Dead Tour – Vortex + XAON (QC, ON, NB)
April 15 – Montreal, QC – Le Petit Campus ***
April 16 – Edmundston, NB – Ateepic *
April 17 – Saint John, NB – Haven Music Hall and Cafe *
April 18 – Moncton, MB – Xeroz *
April 19 – Rimouski, QC – Coop Le Paradis *
April 22 – Ottawa, ON – The Rainbow
April 23 – Drummondville, QC – La Ste-Paix ****
April 24 – Quebec City, QC – L’Anti ****
April 25 – Saguenay, QC – Microbrasserie Port-Alfred
April 26 – Trois-Rivieres, QC – L’Entite **

* Omnivide
** Strigampire
*** Ulfhednar
**** Burning Attic

Vortex is:
Simon Desjardins (Bass)
Mathieu Duguay (Guitars, Orchestrations)
Alexandre Labrie (Vocals)
Dany Lévesque (Guitars)
Olivier Harrisson (Drums)

For more info (Official Website, Socials, Videos, Bandcamp, Spotify, Apple Music): https://linktr.ee/vortexband

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Canadian College Radio Charts – August 2023 – top 20 loud – #14 Vortex (earshot)

“#8 on Top 10 Quebec Band 2023 Albums – The Future Remains In Oblivion delivers a solid punch with their intense and well-felt symphonic death metal and, with a quality product like this, they have nothing to envy of the big names in the genre.” – Thorium Mag

“The Future Remains in Oblivion is the collision zone between powdered wig classical and battle jacketed death metal that should hold appeal for fans of Fleshgod Apocalypse, Septicflesh and those who like their Suffocation mixed with Dimmu Borgir.” – Decibel Magazine

“The song’s (The Walls) multi-faceted nature is further revealed in harrowing and haughty growls, jolting chords, and fiery sunbursts of sound, as well as through a swirling melodic guitar solo that spectacularly sends the song into the stratosphere. The song’s finale is itself a full-power spectacle that really gets the adrenaline surging.” – No Clean Singing

“If there’s anything that Vortex nails, it’s drama. Album highlight and banger track “First Blood” is simply massive” – Angry Metal Guy

“For some music is pure escapism but does that still hold true when bands like Canadian Melodic Death Metal monster Vortex whisk the would be listener into a bleak world that is recovering from a devastating cataclysm? Scenes of war and survival are punctuated with harrowing strings, technical riffs, and guttural and Black Metal inspired vocals as the band weave cinematic stories and orchestral touches into their third concept album “The Future Remains In Oblivion”” – Metal Noise

“the title-track The Future Remains In Oblivion, a song that will blow your mind with its insane wall of sounds, background orchestrations, epic passages, striking riffs and solos, and visceral yet intricate drums, resulting in one of the most breathtaking moments of the entire album.” – The Headbanging Moose

“An excellent group that you must discover because of the intensity they are able to show” – Ondes Chocs

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0 Out Now! Canada’s HETEROMORPHIC ZOO Unleashes “New World” EP and “Ritual of Fidelity” Music Video

October 11, 2024
by Asher
· Heteromorphic Zoo · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 11, 2024

Out Now! Canada’s HETEROMORPHIC ZOO Unleashes “New World” EP and “Ritual of Fidelity” Music Video

Produced by Chris Wiseman (Shadow of Intent, Currents), Mixed and Mastered by Christian Donaldson (Cryptopsy)

Left: Jon Power (Bass), Center front: Megan Ash (Violin), Center back: Ray Heberer (Guitar, live vocals), Right: Bryce Butler (Drums)

Photo Credit – Rico Marques

Emerging metal act Heteromorphic Zoo, from Victoria, BC, Canada, is set to captivate audiences with their debut EP “New World”, produced by Chris Wiseman (Shadow of Intent, Currents) plus mixed and mastered by Christian Donaldson (Cryptopsy). Coinciding with the EP launch, the band has unveiled the music video for their single “Ritual of Fidelity”, which they comment on:

“This song is about an ancient power awakening within a great tomb, filled with monsters. The leaders declare their loyalty (or fidelity) to the overlord. Musically, the actual “ritual of fidelity” takes place in the middle of the song. It’s a classical 3-voice fugue between the violin, lead guitar, and rhythm guitars + bass with a subject, tonal response, 2 counter subjects, and everything. Of course, it’s not a pure fugue since other instruments are also playing, but that’s the skeleton of it, and the callback to an old baroque form brings out the ritualistic nature of the song.”

“Ritual of Fidelity” has a memorable lead guitar melody during its chorus, chuggy yet melodic verse riffs, and an overall more neoclassical sound. The violin is fairly subdued and in the background until the moment of the ritual fugue, since that moment is meant to introduce it to the listener for the first time.

Born from a desire to create “Worship Music for Monsters”, Heteromorphic Zoo‘s five-track EP showcases a diverse and extreme sound that pushes the boundaries of modern metal. Lyrically, “New World” tells the story of a grand alliance of monstrous beings invading a new realm, with perspectives shifting between the monsters, their overlord, and their enemies. The band’s innovative approach combines groove and melody, intricate riffs, and powerful breakdowns, resulting in a sonic experience that defies easy categorization. They are recommended for fans of In Flames, Within the Ruins, and Ne Obliviscaris.

Watch the music video for “Ritual of Fidelity” via TheCirclePit at https://youtu.be/YQ3D1dLu1eA

Released on October 10th, 2024, “New World” is available at the following links:

https://heteromorphiczoo.bandcamp.com/album/new-world

Music Video – Avatara – https://youtu.be/nWZVq-u7Lec

Music Video – Napalm – https://youtu.be/vYY6nMhP3p4

Track Listing:
1. Ritual of Fidelity – 3:29
2. Your Final Seconds (feat. Ville Hokkanen) – 3:42
3. Napalm – 4:22
4. Avatara – 3:39
5. Aura of Despair – 3:41
Total Length 18:53

EP Credits:
All songs performed by:
Heteromorphic Zoo
Coty Garcia – Vocals
Megan Ash – Violin
Ray Heberer – Guitar, Bass
Bryce Butler – Drums

All songs written by:
Ray Heberer (SOCAN member)
Produced by Chris Wiseman
Mixed by Christian Donaldson
Mastered by Christian Donaldson
Album Artwork by Lordigan Pedro Sena
Music is Canadian Content – MAPL

Album band lineup:
Coty Garcia – Vocals
Megan Ash – Violin
Ray Heberer – Guitar, Bass
Bryce Butler – Drums

Live band lineup:
Ray Heberer – Vocals, Guitar
Megan Ash – Violin
Jon Power – Bass
Bryce Butler – Drums

More Info: https://linktr.ee/heteromorphiczoo

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““Napalm” is indeed fiery, but at its core it’s a jackhammer fest that will loosen your teeth and disjoint your spine, accompanied by utterly deranged vocals that sound like a fight between bull elephants, howler monkeys, and a pack of demons that just escaped Hell. Oh, but there’s more! Exotic melodies spin through all the bombs dropping and the jackhammers busting up granite, and a violin takes the exultant soloing role, elevating the music to head-spinning glory.” – No Clean Singing

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0 Canada’s MARBLE GHOSTS Drop New Video “False Heroes” For Debut Self-Titled EP Out Now!

March 1, 2024
by Asher
· Marble Ghosts · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 1, 2024

Canada’s MARBLE GHOSTS Drop New Lyric Video “False Heroes” For Debut Self-Titled EP Out Now!

L-R – Paul R. Champagne (Bass), Adam Hansen (Guitar, Backing Vocals), Dylan Gunnell (Vocals), Jérôme Renaud (Drums)

Photo Credit – Lisa Thompson (Dark Moon Productions)

Dropping their debut self-titled EP this Friday, March 1st, Ottawa, Canada’s Marble Ghosts are presenting their latest video for their track “False Heroes”, the second to last song on the release that is a sludgy verse mixed with a towering harmony-laced chorus and a powerful, thundering instrumental end.

Lyrically, “False Heroes” is aimed at the institutions of old and those who continue to prop them up. Originally titled Marble Ghosts, the name was changed when the band realized that it was the perfect name for the band itself.

They explain further about the song:

“In the current culture, where some believe we should return to a golden past, False Heroes counters that with a resounding NO. The song seeks to eviscerate male privilege, divisive hateful religious figures, but most of all, the ghosts of the past, still seen as trailblazers and nation builders. Inspired by the dismantling of controversial statutes worldwide, but specifically, the downing of the statue of John A. MacDonald, Canada’s first PM and the architect of the residential school system, False Heroes is a warning against romanticizing and celebrating figures whose mindsets were at their core harmful and led in many cases to abusive and criminal acts.”

Watch and listen to the lyric video “False Heroes” via its premiere on Bravewords HERE.

Recently emerging onto the Canadian metal scene with a distinctive sound and a fierce commitment to challenging societal norms, Marble Ghosts comprises a dynamic lineup that uniquely blends genres and generations, featuring a death metal drummer, an old-school metal bassist, a grunge-influenced singer, and a metalcore guitar player. This eclectic mix not only defines their sound but also underscores the band’s commitment to breaking musical boundaries.

Despite being a relatively new band, Marble Ghosts demonstrates a clear musical direction. Their first EP showcases five compelling songs that highlight their diverse influences and styles. As a band, they embrace generational differences, allowing their music to evolve organically as they grow more comfortable with each other.

Explaining the origin of their band name, Marble Ghosts draws inspiration from historical figures revered by some as pioneers and trailblazers but who also committed terrible crimes. The band seeks to call out the tradition that these effigies represent. Their music is recommended for fans of Shinedown, Saint Asonia, and Three Days Grace.

Marble Ghosts’ debut EP is due out on March 1, 2024.

Digital – https://marbleghosts.bandcamp.com/album/marble-ghosts-2

EP preview – https://youtu.be/QZzpK6x6PK0

For those in the Ottawa area, Marble Ghosts are hosting their EP release show on February 29 2024 at The 27 Club. Info here.

Track Listing:
1. Old School (3:10)
2. Lie to Me (4:22)
3. Alone (4:03)
4. False Heroes (4:33)
5. End of the World (3:58)
EP Length: 20:07

More info: Facebook.com/marbleghosts | Instagram.com/marbleghostsofficial

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0 Quebec’s BACKSTABBER Seeks Control With Music Video For “Harvesting The Weak” Off “Patterns of Domination” Out March 2024m

February 8, 2024
by Asher
· Backstabber · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 8, 2024

Quebec’s BACKSTABBER Seeks Control With Music Video For “Harvesting The Weak”

New EP “Patterns of Domination” Out March 2024 – Mixed and Mastered by Christian Donaldson (Cryptopsy)

From the far reaches of Rouyn-Noranda in Northern Quebec, Canada, the brutal death metallers of Backstabber are set to dominate the metal scene with their latest EP, “Patterns of Domination”, to be released this coming March 2024 to follow their 2019 debut album “Conspiracy Theorist”. The EP is loosely based on James Redfield’s “The Celestine Prophecy”, and the theory of four patterns that serve as conduits for manipulating someone else’s attention and energy. The heavy topic is matched by vicious blast beats, gritty gutturals, and groovy solos. The first single off this new offering, “Harvesting The Weak”, presented now in video format takes a look at The Intimidator, as the band explains:

“It is the most brutal pattern; Intimidation. It hits you right in the face while teabagging your knocked-out sack of bones in front of your friends. We’re talking Death metal from old-school riffs to slamming brutal death.”

With a focus on a four-track concept EP, each song represents a specific pattern within the set, providing a brutal and unrelenting journey into Backstabber‘s musical prowess. The EP’s tracklist includes “Harvesting The Weak” (The Intimidator); “Langues Sales” (Poor Me); “Crawling Through Your Bones” (The Interrogator); and “Snitches Get Stitches” (The Aloof), the patterns that collectively form an endless cycle of consumption, shattering victims from the inside out.

Founded in 2012 as a solo project by Christian Thériault, Backstabber evolved into a full-fledged band in 2015, driven by a relentless thirst for angry metal and the need for vengeance. Backstabber‘s creative process is described as starting with a single guitar riff, be it played on a serene Sunday morning or cranked up on a Friday night.

Backstabber‘s sound, much like their lyrics, is dynamic and ever-evolving, promising an exciting musical journey for fans of extreme metal. “Harvesting The Weak” is recommended for fans of Revocation, Hypocrisy, and Kataklysm and can be seen and heard via its video premiere on TheCirclePit at https://youtu.be/FJFzTEdldKo

“Patterns of Domination” was produced by Backstabber vocalist/guitarist Christian M. Thériault and mixed and mastered by Christian Donaldson (Cryptopsy). The EP is due out on March 15, 2024, and available for pre-order at https://backstabbermetal.bandcamp.com.

Track Listing:
1. Harvesting The Weak (4:06)
2. Langues Sales (4:34)
3. Crawling Through Your Bones (5:03)
4. Snitches Get Stitches (5:46)
EP Length: 19:29

EP and Live Band Lineup:
Christian M. Thériault: Guitar/Vocals
Philippe B. St-Jacques: Guitar
Eric Séguin: Bass/Back Vocals
Keven L.-Hull : Drums

More info: Facebook.com/BackStabberMetal

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What the press has said about Backstabber’s 2019 album “Conspiracy Theorist”:

“Powered by drumwork that resembles a ferocious mix of machine-gun and mortar fire, Backstabber mount the attack with flurries of vicious, seething riffery and nail-gunning jab-fests, with the lyrics voiced in heartless, imperious roars. The devastation is pushed to further heights of frenzy with a shrill, eerily spiraling solo, and concludes with a hint of off-planet mystery.” – No Clean Singing

“Out of northern Quebec comes the Men In Black, melodic death metal band Backstabber. Last year, these guys dropped their debut album Conspiracy Theorist and it still stands as one of the best albums of the year. Full of tinges of Hypocrisy from style and sound, to the obvious connection of alien themed lyrics. A little over a year later now, Backstabber are dropping a music video for their song “My Disclosure” and it’s essentially nothing you would expect from a small independent band only on their first album.” – Metal Injection

“Fast, frantic, politically minded and heavy” – Exclaim!

“Backstabber’s death metal is more of the modern variety (in a good way) with a very clean yet brutal sound and speed aplenty. The playing is insanely tight at times and it’s often hard to believe that this is only the first album of a relatively young band, their first demo having been released in 2016. Some passages are a little on the thrash side but for the most part, this is heavy, pounding, fast death metal driven by a drummer who is really asking for a speeding ticket. ” – 4/5 – The Metal Crypt

“The songs are heavy, and the death and thrash influences make for some fairly easy to get into head bobbing as each track progresses… Conspiracy Theorist is a solid beginning for Backstabber… Solid for those that want some new, well-rounded death metal.” – Dead Rhetoric

“Backstabber’s Conspiracy Theorist is a self-released album that makes one wonder how they haven’t been signed to any label yet… Backstabber have on their hands the first essential death metal release of 2019.” – 4/5 – Heavy Music HQ

“BACKSTABBER deliver aggressively systematic silver lining lacerations of rip-roaring screams of vengefully vicious old-school Death ‘N’ Thrash Metal professionalism – simply put – recommended.” – Metal-Temple

“The tracks that attracted my attention the most were ‘Ink Spill’, ‘My Disclosure’ and ‘Banksters’: continuing the old-school texture, these tracks, as well as the entire full-length, include no clean vocals nor breakdowns; all that is contained is substantial and complete death-thrash metal led on by a superb stream of undeniable thinking and design. Backstabber’s music can definitely be cherished over time by fans of Decapitated, At The Gates, Deicide and Hypocrisy as the band grows in following. This release shows glory in blending their musical layout with dynamic and spirited riffs.” – Metal-Rules

“Conspiracy Theorist has a real face crushing, devastatingly great death/thrash metal feel to it…” – Crannk

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0 Come Face To Face With The Infamous Dracula In AxMinister Video “Vlad the Impaler… Forests of Impalement” Off New EP “vir fortis” Out May 2023

April 12, 2023
by Asher
· axminister · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 12, 2023

Come Face To Face With The Infamous Dracula In AxMinister Video “Vlad the Impaler… Forests of Impalement”

New EP “vir fortis” Out May 2023

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

AxMinister is a heavy metal trio from Toronto, Canada. Their sound is true to the traditional metal stylings of some of the biggest metal bands in history. They have their fifth studio release coming in May and they invite metalheads around the world to dive into epic stories and epic riffs. The upcoming EP “vir fortis” is a three-track stunner of a record that gets lyrical content from Vlad The Impaler and Napoleon, its history delivered with thunder. The first single “Vlad the Impaler… Forests of Impalement” is a smoldering look at the Romanian hero. The band shares some details about the single and EP:

“The single chronicles the horrifying experience of impalement, and the ravenous joy Prince Vlad relished from his forests of impalement. The artwork for the album is oil paintings by our drummer Bas. Bas is sort of obsessed with Napoleon Bonaparte, and there are at least two more songs about the French Emperor to be released in the coming years.”

AxMinister leads listeners through history with “vir fortis” as they examine the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte, and the story (along with the myth) of Vlad the Impaler. Their songs are historically accurate and they aim to tackle three things: History, self-improvement, and the ecclesiastical realm. According to them, they need to tell the world that great men have walked before them, great power lies within your souls, and that there is something bigger than yourself. Live your life any way you please, but remember, you will one day be held accountable.

Your history lesson awaits, the video for “Vlad the Impaler… Forests of Impalement” can be seen and heard via its premiere on Bravewords HERE.

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

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

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 |

– 30 –

“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)
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(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 Have You “Seen” SCATTERED STORM’s New Music Video… A Homage For Their Love of Star Wars + New EP “In This Dying Sun” Out Nov 11th

November 10, 2022
by Asher
· Music News · Scattered Storm

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – November 10, 2022

Have You “Seen” SCATTERED STORM’s New Music Video… A Homage For Their Love of Star Wars

New EP “In this Dying Sun” Out Nov 11th via Bloodblast Distribution (powered by Nuclear Blast and Believe Digital)

L- R – Jay Arriaga – Drums, Keyboards, Samples, Andre Accosta – Vocals, Kevin Armstrong – Guitar, Brian Fausnaugh – Bass

El Paso, TX’s Scattered Storm etched their way into the metal scene last year with their debut “Oblivion” and now they have returned with a darker, more proggy offering with “In This Dying Sun” due out on November 11th via Blood Blast Distribution (powered by Nuclear Blast and Believe Digital). Showing a certain evolution from the previous effort, they still implement a lot of their core elements which are ambiance, groove, and melodies, but with this new record, they felt the need to explore faster tempos with machine gun-like riffs. They explain the EP further:

“We never lost track of the bigness, especially with Tue Madsen mixing and mastering this record. In our talks, we really emphasized that to him, even though songs are faster, we still want them to sound huge. And boy did he deliver. Sonically this record has been the best one. Madsen was even kind enough to feature the title track for his drum sample pack through Drum Forge because he really dug the song.”

Part of their evolution can be attributed to bringing in their new bass player Brian Fausnaugh full fold. He had recorded previously with them on some songs, so it was a no-brainer. Lyrically, they still draw from books, movies, series, and whatever piques their interests. This EP is intended to be a journey, discussing evolution, putting yourself back together, and the teachings of Yoda.

Today, in celebration of the release of “In this Dying Sun“, Scattered Storm is sharing their new music video for the EP’s closer “Seen”, a musical and lyrical homage to Star Wars.

“This was a very complex song to write vocals to. Because it has many changes. Many ups and downs. Overall it is a very dark song. Its slow riffs and rhythms make it feel like you are in Darth Vader’s home. We used a lot of Star Wars references in this song. Yoda’s teachings. The evolution of being good but then going to a dark place. Fear is the path we yell. As Fear leads to anger, anger leads to pain, and pain leads to suffering. All indications that you are pretty much heading to a dark place.” adds drummer Jay Arriaga.

The video can be seen and heard via its’ premiere on Metal Insider HERE.

Heavy and futuristic, Scattered Storm is recommended for a wide variety of metalheads as they encompass s good blend of the sludge from Meshuggah, the ambiance of Tesseract, and the epicness of Devin Townsend, and are influenced by bands like Fear Factory and Mnemic

“In this Dying Sun” comes out on November 11, 2022, via Blood Blast Distribution (powered by Nuclear Blast and Believe Digital) and is available at the following link – https://bfan.link/in-this-dying-sun

Previous Videos:

Music Video – Bloody Love – https://youtu.be/XR1ualbw3VI

Music Video – In This Dying Sun – https://youtu.be/dTTWILNBBMM

Track Listing:
1. Bloody Love – 4:44
2. The Process – 3:49
3. Hollow – 4:16
4. In this Dying Sun – 3:42
5. Seen – 4:49
EP Length: 21:12

Recording and Live Band Lineup:
Jay Arriaga – Drums, Keyboards, Samples
Kevin Armstrong – Guitar
Brian Fausnaugh – Bass
Andre Accosta – Vocals

For more info:
https://linktr.ee/scatteredstorm
https://www.facebook.com/scatteredstormband
https://www.instagram.com/scatt_storm

About:
Scattered Storm is an El Paso, Texas-based metal band which formed three years ago with the collaboration between Jay Arriaga (drums) from No Life on Earth, Years of Cold, and Kevin Armstrong (guitar) from Mondoshawan, Section 6. From there Andre Acosta from Pissing Razors, Hereafter the Wave and current No Life on Earth frontman joined the ranks on vocals. Having recorded a couple of songs on Bass for both Oblivion and In This Dying Sun, Brian Fausnaugh (Random Allusion, Limerance) finally joined the ranks full time replacing Eddie Garcia on bass. Scattered Storm recorded In This Dying Sun in 2021 at Javier’s Studio Empty Paradise Studios for its release on November 11th, 2022 via Blood Blast Distribution to follow their 2021 debut EP “Oblivion”.

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“Scattered Storm’s second offering delivers an eclectic mix blending various elements of Heavy Metal and Prog. Andre Accosta delivers a very good vocal performance with a multitude of ranges and dynamics to fit the mood of each song. Kevin Armstrong’s guitar style builds a foundation that is well-balanced with the bass and drums. The band is tight with the tempo changes and does a very nice job with the keys, adding an atmospheric and dark ambiance feeling to the songs.” – Metal Express Radio

“There is little doubt that these new cuts are darker and more personal than the first record while there is also a little more bark and bite as if the shackles are off this time around. “Hollow” offers beauty in clean vocals and twisted melodies while Kevin Armstrong’s riffs keep up the energy levels but it’s the stuccato riff breaks of title track “In This Dying Sun” that ignite the fires. Punching like Prong with its tight rhythms, the clean vocals cut against the grain offering a decent balance between melodic and heavy with Accosta having some moments eerily reminiscent of the much missed Matt Holt of Nothingface. That continues into “Seen” before the spine juddering riffs and unclean roar take hold like a designer drug fueled rage in bombastic style. Where Scattered Storm go from here is going to be intriguing given the waves of turbulence and eccletic violence found here” – Metal Noise

“Their music is dark and futuristic with plenty of ambience to balance the heavy.” – New Noise Magazine (2021 – Oblivion)

“Chugging guitars, punishing drums, brutal, throat throttling vocals… Yep, it’s all here and a lot more with the latest music video for “Necronomicon” from Scattered Storm. Reminding you of what live music used to be all about, the band torches the room in this electric performance video, as an eager audience beholds the musical greatness that is this Texas supergroup.” – V13 (2021 – Oblivion)

“Their sound has been compared to the likes of Fear Factory, Gojira, Messuggah & TesseracT, & their new single, ‘Kingslayer” definitely would fit in the realm of HEAVINESS.” – KLAQ 95.5 FM (El Paso, TX) (2021 – Oblivion)

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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 Introducing Connecticut’s FROGG And Their Reptilian Dystopia With Single “Ancient Rain”; Debut EP “A Reptilian Dystopia” Out Jan 17, 2020

December 6, 2019
by Asher
· FROGG · Music News

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 6, 2019

For fans of Obscura, Arsis, Born of Osiris, Kalmah, The Zenith Passage

Introducing Connecticut’s FROGG And Their Reptilian Dystopia With Single “Ancient Rain”

Debut EP “A Reptilian Dystopia” Out Jan 17, 2020

Fresh out of Stamford, Connecticut, USA, comes FROGG, a creative and modern blend of metal that is both dark and melodic. They are releasing their debut EP “A Reptilian Dystopia” on January 17, 2020 and ahead of that, are releasing the single ‘Ancient Rain’.

FROGG has been in the works for years in the mind of Sky Moon Clark and over the years he has been inoculating a stash of riffs, licks, and raw emotion, which will now be poured out into the world. As the band puts it, “it’s a fiery punch to the gut”.

The single ‘Ancient Rain’ is fast, technical and powerful with brutal riffs and malicious gutturals. One of the 4 punchy tracks that is just the beginning of what FROGG has to offer. Clark quotes about the future material FROGG intends to release:

“Our EP is kind of our raw sound put on a plate without much refinement, but it’s still the basic punch and flavour FROGG has to offer. Just think of the EP as our base, while our in-the-works Album I (expected 2021/2022) will be a more fleshed out form of FROGG with an emphasized focus on the overall songs start to finish.”

Metal fans looking for something new and creative, especially fans of Obscura, Arsis and Born of Osiris will be able to appreciate FROGG and “A Reptilian Dystopia”.

Listen to ‘Ancient Rain’ via The CirclePit‘s YouTube channel here.

EP Pre-order here.

Track Listing:
1. Ancient Rain (3:23)
2. Nuclear Storm (2:05)
3. DNA (7:29)
4. Ranidaphobia (3:47)
EP Length: 16:45

For more info:
Facebook.com/Froggband
Instagram @ Froggband
Twitter @OfficialFrogg
EPK

About:

FROGG is a modern technical metal band located in Stamford, USA with influences stemming from Obscura, Arsis, and Born of Osiris.

The concept behind FROGG is simple: create modern heavy music while striving to show off some originality in an often, over-processed genre. FROGG’s main ambition is to hit the live circuit in NYC and its surroundings with a perfected performance and bolstered line-up.

FROGG started as your typical high school band with founder Sky Moon Clark and co-founder at the time, Ryan Panny blasting off primarily Children of Bodom covers for fun. FROGG was later revitalized by Clark, during his time at Berklee College of Music.

Through his time at Berklee, Clark experimented with different projects while continuing to funnel different guitar-centric song ideas and riffs into the archives that would later come to fruition with the next reincarnation of FROGG.

In 2019, the overstocked stash of riffs, licks, and raw emotion was ready to be poured out into the world what was a one-man project bloomed with the addition of Siebe Sol Sijpkens (bass); Anthony Barrone (drums) and Liam Zintz-Kunkel (rhythm guitars) to record the first EP.

With performance in mind, FROGG delivers an authentic live sound with no backup tracks, just raw, practiced musicianship. The dark and melodic band promises something hot, original and intense and the debut album “A Reptilian Dystopia” is slated for release in 2020.

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—

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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

AsherMediaRelations.com

0 EPK – AZP – A New Beginning (EP)(2018)

August 29, 2018
by Asher
· AZP · EPKs

AZP – A New Beginning (EP) (2018)

Release Date: TBD

DISTRIBUTION: Bandcamp

For Fans of Marty Friedman, Yngwie Malmsteen, Jason Becker, Andy James, Jason Richardson, Marco Sfogli

PR Rep – Jon Asher – ashermedia(@)gmail.com

Youtube | Bandcamp

Download High Res Photo | Download High Res Album Cover

A New Beginning (EP) (2018)

Release Date: TBD
Label & distribution: Bandcamp

Track Listing:

01. Don’t Contradict The Fates
02. In The Shadow Of A Crumbled Fort
03. Scratch The Surface
04. Colorblind
05. Don’t Turn Away
06. Diversion
07. The Siren Song
08. Hideout
09. Obituary of Common Sense
10. Lint
11. Recoil

Album Credits:

All Music Written/Composed/Co-Produced By Alex Zubair
Mixed/Mastered/Produced By Alex Rise
Artwork By Alex Rise
Logo By Christopher Horst

Album Recording & Live Line Up:
Alex Zubair (Guitar)

Discography:

DEBUT – A New Beginning (EP) (2018)

L-R – Alex Zubair (founding members and guitarist)

SHORT BIO:
Alex Zubair has been playing guitar for years and since the disbandment of his two previous acts (Burn to Black and Nephelium) he has channeled his skills into a solo, instrument, self named project. This effort was kicked off in 2015 and showcases plenty of intricate melodic/oriental styled solos that are climatic, groovy, futuristic and intense.

The first release for the Alex Zubair Project is “A New Beginning” a 5 song EP expected at the end of 2018. “This is a new chapter in my life and a new beginning and a collaboration of all my hard work and experience from the past and now. Every track has a unique story to tell.”

LONG BIO:
Alex Zubair has been playing guitar for years and since the disbandment of his two previous acts (Burn to Black and Nephelium) he has channeled his skills into a solo, instrument, self named project. This effort was kicked off in 2015 and showcases plenty of intricate melodic/oriental styled solos that are climatic, groovy, futuristic and intense.

Citing musical influences such as Marty Friedman, Jason Becker, Testament and Megadeth, Alex maintains that he is focused on something modern and different: “I hate comparing cause every band or musicians brings different types of art to the table but this project is unique; it’s all about the shred!”

Highlights:

Shredders of Metal (Banger TV) (2018)
Nephelium – lead guitarist (1999 – present)

0 NEWS: THE APEX Announce New EP ‘Underbelly + ‘Fresh Out of The Foundry Tour’ (ON/QC/PE/NB/NS)

July 5, 2016
by Asher
· Music News · The Apex

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 5, 2016

Album Request here.

For fans of The Dillinger Escape Plan, Meshuggah, The Red Chord, Candiria

TheApexBand.com | Facebook | Twitter | Youtube | Bandcamp

THE APEX Announce New EP ‘Underbelly + ‘Fresh Out of The Foundry Tour’ (ON/QC/PE/NB/NS)

L-R: The Apex Album lineup: Brian Gemus (Guitar) | Tyson Taylor (Drums) | Darren Marchand (Vocals) | Jer Candusso (Bass) | Steve Landgraff (Guitar) (Photo Credit Shari Richards)

2015 – Self-Titled – Album Stream – Bandcamp

Music Video – If Detroit River Could Speak – Watch here.

Windsor, ON’s THE APEX announce they will be unleashing their new EP‘Underbelly’ (artwork and track listing coming soon) in follow up to their 2015 self-titled album and have launched a Go Fund Me / Pre-Order Campaign for fans to support. A full list of perks ranging from limited edition shirts, tapes, CDs, vinyls plus an exclusive performance can be viewed at the following link here.

Video of the band recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2EL0PLlXh2A

The band comments:

“We would like to start by saying we are trying to stay as modest as possible here. We see many campaigns for bands shoot for crazy numbers and we are trying to keep ours at a reasonable and achievable number. We are trying to raise some funds to put out our new EP entitled, “Underbelly” which is set to be released in August in time for our East Coast tour around the same time. We need all the help we can get by Aug. 1st. Any help past that day is still a HUGE help!”

The EP will feature 3 ear piercing blasts of extreme shrapnel to please fans as the ghetto tech metallers will be hitting the road this August for their two week ‘Fresh Out of The Foundry Tour’ with Regina’s The Man and His Machine across Ontario, Quebec, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. (dates listed below)

‘Fresh Out of The Foundry Tour’:
Aug 17 – Windsor, ON – The Dominion House – info
Aug 18 – Toronto, ON – Coalition T.O. – info
Aug 19 – Montreal, QC – THR Bar – info
Aug 20 – Drummondville, QC – Pur Heriot – info
Aug 21 – Quebec City, QC – La Source de la Martinière
Aug 22 – Charlottetown, PE – Babas Lounge
Aug 23 – Moncton, NB – Plan B
Aug 25 – Saint John, NB – TBA
Aug 26 – Sydney, NS – Embers
Aug 27 – Sackville, NS – House Show
Aug 28 – Halifax, NS – Gus’ Pub
Aug 29 – Fredericton, NB – Charlotte Street Arts Center – info

BIO:

The Apex formed in August of 2013.

They are a collective of individuals from the Ontario metal community, whom over the years have come together from past bands such as, Closed Casket Funeral, Dismata, Blood Shot Eye, The Coalition Design, and Corprophemia to form The Apex.

In a true culmination of talent, dedication, and timing, this group has created a unique hometown sound that is now being called “Windsor Ghetto Tech”. The brutal sonic assault of their music coupled with the emotional reckless abandonment of their live performance, have drawn stanch comparisons to Meshuggah and classic Dillinger Escape Plan rounded out with a distinctly Canadian flair. To add influence, vocalist Darren M. suffers from Neurogenic Stammering, which effects his speech where the brain won’t tell the mouth what to say so he’s unable to carry on a normal conversation, but for some reason he’s able to scream all the lyrics live and that is how he gets to express himself vocally with the band.

In July, 2014 they entered Shark Tank Productions studio in Windsor, Ontario to begin recording their debut self-titled full length album, “The Apex”. They hired engineer Nick Kinnish of Serafina Productions (Johnny Truent, Architects, and more) to aid them in capturing their sound accurately. In November, 2014 they completed their recording and announced the independent release date of February 21st, 2015. In 2016, the band entered Empire Recording Studios to record their next release, the EP ‘Underbelly’ set to be unleashed in August.

TOUR EXPERIENCE
This band is no stranger to hitting the pavement to support the music they love to make. In their 15+ years of experience creating music in previous bands, they’ve been support on tour for bands like: Cephalic Carnage, All Shall Perish, Despised Icon, Cryptopsy, Today Is The Day, Killitorous, Erimha and Ion Dissonance to name a few. In previous bands they’ve also shared the stage on festivals with bands like: SOD, Venom, Obituary, Cradle Of Filth, Earth Crisis, God Forbid, Skinless, Beneath The Massacre and more to crowds up to 7500+ in North America.

As their current lineup “The Apex”, they have already invested in a mid-sized tour bus and have began to book many shows and festivals across Canada for 2016.

For more info, please visit http://www.facebook.com/wearetheapex.

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