Tag: Iron Maiden

0 Helion Prime Shares Re-Recording “The Drake Equation” To Celebrate Guitarist Jason Ashcraft’s New Custom Guitars “The Drake Series”

May 28, 2021
by Asher
· Helion Prime · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 28, 2021

For fans of Unleash the Archers, Iron Maiden, Helloween

Helion Prime Shares Re-Recording “The Drake Equation”

To Celebrate Guitarist Jason Ashcraft’s New Custom Guitars “The Drake Series”

American power metallers Helion Prime have just released a new version of their song “The Drake Equation”, which first appeared on the band’s 2016 self-titled debut album. The re-recorded single is to celebrate the new custom “Drake Series” guitars made by Helion Prime fan Eddie Julian for founding guitarist Jason Ashcraft as well as to showcase the band in its current line-up.

Guitarist Jason Ashcraft had this to say:

“I’m very excited to finally have these new guitars in my hand. Each guitar is completely handmade from scratch. Both modeled after the Les Paul and Explorer body shape, but with tweaks to meet my specifications. The explorer is thicker and both headstocks are reinforced to prevent them from snapping. When Eddie Julian made these, I asked if we could take the inspiration from the custom designs that Gibson uses, but that we of course make them our own and something that will compliment my playing style. Both are great for those heavy riffs I like to play! Each guitar has a 12th fret inlay of my other band Dire Peril’s emblem and both have an engraving of my band Helion Prime’s emblem. The explorer has the Seymour Duncan Nazgul & Sentient Humbucker Pickup Set while the Les Paul is packed with Bare Knuckle Painkiller pickups. When it came time to paint them, The Drake Equation kept coming to my mind, and just felt like it would really pop on these guitars and it really did! That also lead to the idea to re-record the track. Re-Recording some old songs with our current line-up is something we’ve talked about in the past and this felt like a great opportunity to do it and let me show off these new guitars!”

This re-recording of “The Drake Equation” is just the first of new things to come from Helion Prime this year! Stay tuned as they will have more to announce.

“The Drake Equation” can be heard via Jason Ashcraft’s playthrough showcasing the “Drake Series” guitars at the following link: https://youtu.be/83DnEXDrino

https://youtu.be/83DnEXDrino

Helion Prime latest full-length “Question Everything” was released this past October for North America and Europe via the band’s label Saibot Reigns along with a Japanese edition via Ward Records that featured two exclusive bonus tracks “Prof (Demo)” and “Rain (Trivium Cover)”. This is Helion Prime‘s first album with new vocalist Mary Zimmer, who has also accompanied the band on two separate tours of the United States. It also sees the band’s original singer, Heather Michele, returning in a writing capacity and contributing all lyrics and melodies. Heather Michele also along with other former Helion Prime vocalist Sozos Michael and with John Yelland (Judicator/Dire Peril) add their guest vocals on the full length.

Album order for Japan / Asian market available HERE.

Album order for North America/EU available at Helionprimemetal.com (CD), Apple Music, and Spotify.

“Question Everything” was produced by Jason Ashcraft and Alex Nasla. Mixing was done by Chris Collier and mastered by Brett Caldas-Lima along with additional mixing/drum edits/reamping plus writing and performance of keyboard arrangements by Alex Nasla of Gear Gods Studio. Guitar/Bass edits by Michael Goodrich and cover art by Marc Whisnant.

The third record is a concept album, with each song revolving around different figures throughout human history that had the courage to question the status quo of their respective worlds/societies, in some cases even dealing with harsh persecution as a result. Those Helion Prime chose to write about faced prejudice, mockery, ex-communication, and persecution – yet through it all, they held true to their beliefs and ideas. Time would be their greatest ally as their ideas and identities were eventually validated, oftentimes not until after their passing. They serve as an inspiration for all minds to continue thinking outside the box and staying true to themselves.

Previous Videos:
“Question Everything” YouTube (Music Video)
“The Forbidden Zone” YouTube (Lyric Video)
“Madame Mercury” Youtube (Lyric Video)
“Gadfly” YouTube (Music Video)
“Photo 51” YouTube (Lyric Video)

Helion Prime is:
Mary Zimmer – Vocals
Jason Ashcraft – Rhythm Guitars
Chad Anderson – Lead Guitars
Jeremy Steinhouse – Bass
Alex Bosson – Drums

For more info:
Helionprimemetal.com
Facebook.com/helionprimemetal
Instagram.com/helionprimemetal
EPK

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0 Bulgaria’s STORM Unleash Uplifting Speed Metal Single “Here I Am”

May 28, 2021
by Asher
· Music News · storm

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 28, 2021

For fans of Helloween, Blind Guardian, Angra, Iron Maiden

Bulgaria’s STORM Unleash Uplifting Speed Metal Single “Here I Am”

Bulgaria’s Storm is releasing a new single “Here I Am”, their third one following Angel (2019) and Sulza (2020). It is a sleek speed metal offering characterized with melodic vocal lines presented often in harmonies, laid against swift tempo and heavy riffs.

According to the band, “Here I Am” is a look inward, where Mihail Bonev (bass, vocals) reflects on coping with personal problems. Compared to the other singles, which are more melodic and slow, this one is, as the band remarks, more sophisticated and accurate. They continue to explain the track:

“We are evolving in playing as well as in producing, which is great. ‘Here I Am’ is the clearest example so far of what kind of a band we are, in the sense of music. This song best reveals the essence of our music – both the lyric side and the powerful side. We really believe that it will be much liked, we already see our fans enjoying the songs very much. It’s trying to give them the full joy of real original music in the respective genres, not banal cliches or latest modern tunes.”

Initially, Storm was trying to appeal to the commercial side of music, but has now moved past that and is fully embracing the heavier music their audience knows them best for. “Here I Am” is one of the band’s favourites and they are ecstatic to finally be releasing it.

Galvanized by ambition and a desire to pave their own way, Alexander Mladenov (drums, vocals), Mihail Bonev (bass, vocals) started Storm after leaving Atlantic in 2018, they recruited Nikolay Mihaylov (guitar). Fans can expect at least three brand new original songs coming down the pipe, along with two covers of Atlantic songs.

With its promising intro and inspiring riffs, the powerful “Here I Am” is recommended for fans of Helloween, Blind Guardian, and Angra.

“Here I Am” is now available as of May 28, 2021 and can be heard on the following platforms:

YouTube: https://youtu.be/IX4O2xc1XPk
Stormbg.bandcamp.com
Apple Music – https://apple.co/3fXDbdw
Spotify – https://spoti.fi/2R1qeqz

More Info:
Stormbg.com
Facebook.com/StormBandBG
Twitter.com/Storm40311126
Instagram.com/stormbandbg
Tiktok.com/@storm9050
EPK

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“With a sound that recalls classic ballads from heavy metal monsters, their powerful song “Sulza” stays in our playlist for more than two weeks now. Storm it’s – until now – the only Bulgarian band in any of our playlists. Enjoy, cause it’s a pleasure to discover new bands from different places in the world.” – Indie Rock World

“STORM feature melodic lines, swift tempo, heavy riffs, captivating vocals and deliver explosive show performances.” – Tunebubble

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0 Rockshots Records: Out Now! Greek Prog Power ILLUSORY New Album “Crimson Wreath”

May 21, 2021
by Asher
· Illusory (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 21, 2021

For fans of Iron Maiden, Queensryche, Savatage, Jag Panzer

Rockshots Records: Out Now! Greek Prog Power ILLUSORY New Album “Crimson Wreath”

“Crimson Wreath” Out May 21, 2021

Greece’s prog power titans Illusory have released their new album “Crimson Wreath”, out now as of May 21st via Rockshots Records.

Having opened for such legendary acts Blue Oyster Cult, Warrel Dane, Geoff Tate, and Gus G, Illusory‘s third full-length “Crimson Wreath” is the next step in their widely praised evolution to follow 2016’s Polysllabic (7hard/7us) and 2013’s “The Ivory Tower” (The Leaders Records).

Melodic, riffy, cerebral, and complex “Crimson Wreath” is a very emotional and melodic release, yet heavy and strong at the same time. Both new fans and ones who have been listening to the band for years will indulge themselves in this latest offering of classic, progressive, epic, and thrashy performances. Lyrical themes found on “Crimson Wreath” are mostly anti-war, but the full length also includes a thematic unit consisting of three songs that deal with human loss.

The band comments:

“The band is thrilled! When we look back, from the first minute to the last one, from the moment we pressed record on the very first drum takes to the album wrap-up, we can’t stop thinking about all the things we set and done during those long hours of arranging every little album detail. “Crimson Wreath” has become a member of our discography and our most recent brainchild. And we are totally proud of it!”

For fans of Iron Maiden, Queensryche, Savatage, Jag Panzer, Illusory‘s “Crimson Wreath” is available at the following links:

CD – http://bit.ly/CrimsonWreathCD
Apple Music – https://apple.co/3ozyVoh
Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3f8gpAq

In additional news, the band will be revealing a new music video in the coming weeks for the track “Ashes To Dust”. The video will feature special guest Grigoris Valtinos, a world-renowned Greek theatrical actor and director.

Track Listing:
1. Besetting Sins (5:01)
2. Acedia (2:11)
3. Crimson Wreath (6:35)
4. Immortal No (4:25)
5. All Shall Fade (1:51)
6. All Blood Red (5:48)
7. The Voice Inside Me (1:28)
8. S.T. Forsaken (8:08)
9. Ashes To Dust (5:51)
10. A Poem I Couldn’t Rhyme (4:22)
An Opus Of Loss And Sorrow:
11. Pedestal I: Past Forever Last (6:07)
12. Pedestal II: The Isle Of Shadows (9:08)
13. Pedestal III: Agony’s Last (6:53)
14. Fortress Of Sadness (10:04)
Album Length: 1:18:00

ILLUSORY is:
Dee Theodorou – Vocals
George Papantonis – Guitars
Greg Bakos – Guitars
Niki Danos – Bass
Makis Vandoros – Keyboards
Costas Koulis – Drums

For more info:
Roc kshots.eu
Illusoryband.com
Facebook.com/illusoryband
Instagram/illusory_band
Twitter.com/illusoryband

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0 Out Now! Nightshadow’s New Album “Strike Them Dead”

May 7, 2021
by Asher
· Music News · Nightshadow

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 7, 2021

For fans of Stratovarius, Hammerfall, Gamma Ray, Helloween, Iron Maiden, DIO

Out Now! Nightshadow’s New Album “Strike Them Dead”

L-R – Sean Woodman – Drums, Chris Bader – Bass, Nick Harrington – Guitar, Danny Fang – Guitar, Brian Dell – Vocals
Photo Credit – Flo Li

Out now as of May 7th, Nightshadow unleashes their next slab of infectious strong-hearted power-punching metal with their new full-length “Strike Them Dead” to follow their 2017 self-titled debut EP.

The album can be heard in full on the following platforms:
Spotify – https://spoti.fi/2PYKR6d
CD – Nightshadowofficial.bandcamp.com
Lyric video – “Ripper” – https://youtu.be/GYqVZaEYbl4

Making waves on their local scene of San Diego, CA, Nightshadow has been called upon as one of the most opening supports for touring acts such as Appice Brothers, The Iron Maidens, Geoff Tate’s Operation: Mindcrime, Marty Friedman, Hammerfall, Beastö Blancö, and Adrenaline Mob to name a few.

Unleashing the rhythmic beasts with fast, aggressive, and heavy melodic passion, Nightshadow brings unforgiving committed focus to epic power metal with the rich, powerful, dynamic force in the vocals of singer Brian Dell; thunderous, exhilarated energy of drummer Sean Woodman; dominating, double lead shredding magic in guitarists Nick Harrington and Danny Fang; rounding out with the crushing, methodical thumping of bassist Chris Bader laying a secure concrete foundation.

Fast, aggressive, powerful, and loud, Nightshadow‘s new album “Strike Them Dead” features 10 relentless tracks riddled in classic, power, and thrash metal influences. From start to finish, the album showcases their brilliant harmonies, along with a medley of guitar shedding from band axemen Nick Harrington and Danny Fang.

“We are very happy that this album is finally seeing the light of day. It’s our first full-length album and it’s been in the works for a couple of years, so it’s exciting that it is finally done. We got killer artwork for the cover, great production, and it sounds awesome. For a small band like us, having a debut album that looks and sounds as good as it does is really exciting! From the first song to the last song, it’s high-energy, it flows really well, it’s just non-stop. We can’t wait for everyone to hear it!” adds the band.

For fans of Stratovarius, Hammerfall, Gamma Ray, Helloween, Iron Maiden, and DIO, Nightshadow‘s “Strike Them Dead” is awaiting to be added to album collections.

Track Listing:
1. Legend (4:19)
2. Witch Queen (4:36)
3. Ripper (5:40)
4. Love & Vengeance (7:11)
5. Children of the Night (5:23)
6. False Truths (7:36)
7. Strike Them Dead (5:32)
8. Blood Penance (5:09)
9. Storm Bringer (3:47)
10. Mistress of the Pit (6:43)
Album Length: 56:01

Album / Live Band Line Up:
Brian Dell – Vocals
Nick Harrington – Guitar
Danny Fang – Guitar
Chris Bader – Bass
Sean Woodman – Drums

For more info:
Facebook.com/nightshadowmetal
Twitter.com/nightshadow619
Instagram.com/nightshadowofficial
YouTube
EPK

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0 San Diego Thrashers MONARCH “Blast The Seed” In Shred Fest Guitar Playthrough, Video Premiere via TechnicalMusicReview

May 5, 2021
by Asher
· Monarch · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 5, 2021

For fans of Slayer, Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Testament, Exodus

San Diego Thrashers MONARCH “Blast The Seed” In Shred Fest Guitar Playthrough

Playthrough Premiere via TechnicalMusicReview

New Album “Future Shock” Out Now!

L-R – Gabe Mendez (Bass), Adam West (Drums), Matt Smith (Vocals/Guitar), Casey Trask (Guitar)
Photo Credit: Astrid Anaya

San Diego’s MONARCH unleashed their sophomore album “Future Shock” this past April. Compared to their first, very DIY album, 2017’s “Go Forth… Slaughter”, MONARCH‘s next escapade “Future Shock” was done professionally at Clarity Recordings in El Cajon, California, and is a big step forward for the band both musically and sonically. The album hits hard on a lot of levels, there is speed, heaviness, melodies, great memorable lyrics along with riffs and solos.

And speaking of riffs and solos, today, the band’s guitarists Casey Trask and Matt Smith share their shredding skills with their new guitar playthrough for the track “Blast The Seed”.

The guitarists add:

“Blast The Seed’ is one of my favorite songs to play for sure, it has some techniques that I really enjoy hearing in other people’s playing. My first solo starts with a big ascending blues lick, then messes with some different minor modes. When I was coming up with these solos I tried to emulate a sort of progression that seemed like it was taking flight and blasting off at the end. My solo in the middle uses some quick legato peppered with some Palm muted staccato. I also used a cool bend technique I’ve always been a fan of where you pick and bend the E string up while bending the B string up as well with the same finger, then picking and releasing the bend on the B string, so I played around with that feeling a bit. I love the quick pentatonic work of Zakk Wylde and Richie Faulkner and you’ll hear some of that in this solo as well. For my final solo towards the end, I just thought it would be cool to let the solo branch off from the chorus riff in an organic way so the first lick in the solo actually starts off with the pull-off of the chorus riff. This one has some diminished runs going into some climactic dyads before blasting up to the 22nd fret for some speed picking down the minor scale. The last fast bit running up the neck brought out the Alexi Laiho influence in me for sure.” – Casey Trask

“‘Blast The Seed’ – Intro, Ultimate Battle Intro Number One cameo. Then the first riff is classic battle style 333322. Solo one, D blues with some nasty arpeggios at the end to tag off into Casey’s solo, key change a 5th. Then the main theme riff, blast-off ejecting classic descending melody riff with a cool lil’ harmony 5ths break at the end into the verse. Ride the D on the verse then bust the 3rds. Prechorus style harmonic minor riff with pedal 5ths. Chorus, just ejecting the D minor in the face before a screamer solo. Repeat everything for round 2. Back to the classic battle riff 333322 to prepare for launch into the solos. The first solo’s in A then Casey takes 2 over D then A. Then I clean up with some Yngwie sweeps in D before the heavy development. Big breaks, crazy drums fills, then to the dungeon bridge riff. More 333322 theme with the chords descending underneath and some rad 5th and 4th harmony action. Final chorus into the blast-off solo, my favorite riff, taking the verse melody and playing the chorus chords underneath. Into to final main theme with quad harmonies for the money shot. Seeds successfully blasted throughout the void between your ears.” – Matt Smith

You can watch the playthrough via its premiere on TechnicalMusicReview HERE.

Recommended for fans of Exodus, Slayer, and Testament, MONARCH‘s “Future Shock” is available at the following links:

(CD, Vinyl) – https://monarch.band
Spotify

Music Videos:
“Nuclear Warfare” – https://youtu.be/eI9R0LNYGHM
“Shred or Die!” – https://youtu.be/DOgceZdx2mU

Live video at Wacken 2019:
Khaos Warrior – https://youtu.be/wXiU078YKM0
Full Wacken Set – https://youtu.be/Gjct4mbhdxM

Track Listing:
1. Blast The Seed (5:16)
2. Khaos Warrior (2:51)
3. Future Shock (5:00)
4. Nuclear Warfare (4:00)
5. Shred or Die! (4:15)
6. Multiverse (3:02)
7. Fatal Vector (6:47)
8. Collision Of Bones (3:45)
9. Swarm Of The Whorenet (6:41)
10. Metal Soul (5:21)
Album Length: 47:04

More Info:
Monarch.band
Facebook.com/monarchthrash
Instagram.com/monarch666
Twitter.com/riseofmonarch
EPK

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“I tell you, they could give Megadeth a run for their money in the technically-superior-melodic-thrash stakes!” – Sentinel Daily

“Possibly more guitar-centric than their last album, Future Shock has that racing intensity and metal to the bone determination to win over even the most skeptical people in the underground. March up to the table and give Monarch your full support – as this is high quality thrash with diversity, musicianship, and killer songwriting at the forefront.” – Dead Rhetoric

“No matter if thrash is the creed which you live by or you’re venturing into the frenzied scene for the first time. Monarch will appeal to all who like their heavy metal to sound…well, like heavy metal. Get the muscles warmed up, you’re going to find your neck and arms are about to get a serious workout. Cue fists in the air and heads being banged.” – Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life

“I like Monarch, and ‘Future Shock’ is an excellent album, the band are obviously very serious at what they are doing, and yet also have a unique sense of fun, I mean what other band can name the likes of the cartoons Futurama, the Legend of Zelda and Dragon Ball Z, as lyrical influences, and also come up with a character ‘The Whore of the North’ as the protagonist of another song? This hard hitting, yet very melodic, with some great hooks and choruses, the riffs and solos simply fly around your ears. If you’re a fan of the likes of Havok, Warbringer at el, you could do far worse than checking out this exciting foursome. Great stuff.” – The Razor’s Edge

“If there’s a reason to stick with Monarch’s thrashy second album Future Shock, it’s the fantastic chemistry between guitarist/vocalist Matt Smith and guitarist Casey Trask. They split soloing duties down the middle, trading them off with the finesse of a Mustaine/Friedman pairing, while locking in with harmonies on songs like “Khaos Warrior.” The first song alone, “Blast The Seed,” has seven guitar solos in its five minutes, and that’s not an exception, as all ten tracks have a truckload of impressive guitar performances.” – Heavy Music Headquarters

“What a journey, from games worship to outer space to political controversy to whorey warriors, from mesmerizing classical guitar to thrash metal. There are even some synthesized sounding beats thrown in for good measure. ‘Future Shock’ is a true showcase of the range of Monarch’s technical ability. This band is definitely under-appreciated at the moment. There’s too much technique and flair here for them to be flying under the radar. Monarch is perhaps too often written off as pretenders to bigger bands but they aren’t pretending. They are owning their genre.” – Uber Rock

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0 Rockshots Records: Aussie 80’s Speed Metal NOTHING SACRED New Album “No Gods” Coming July 2021 + New Music Video “Final Crime”

May 5, 2021
by Asher
· Music News · Nothing Sacred (Rockshots Records)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 5, 2021

For fans of Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Death Angel, Exodus, Testament

Rockshots Records: Aussie 80’s Speed Metal NOTHING SACRED New Album “No Gods” Coming July 2021

New Music Video “Final Crime”

“No Gods” Out July 16th

One of the earliest Australian bands to play thrash/speed metal, Nothing Sacred was conceived in Melbourne, Australia in 1983. Unleashing their debut EP “Deathwish” in early 1985, launching the band as one of the most sought-after pit makers with the record’s title track becoming a classic within the Australian metal scene. In 1988, the band unleashed their first full-length entitled “Let Us Prey” on Cleopatra Records. Unfortunately a year after the LP’s release, the band disbanded in 1989. Lead guitarist Mark Woolley, bassist Karl Lean and drummer Sham went on to contribute to Hobbs’ Angel of Death‘s early work in the late 1980s. Woolley also appeared on Hobbs’ first self-titled album in 1988. Vocalist Mick Burnham later joined short-lived Melbourne band Seizure in 1993.

Although their tenure was short-lived, Nothing Sacred still remains an underground metal phenomenon in Australia. Songs from the Deathwish EP still get airplay on several Australian metal radio programs.

In 2012, Nothing Sacred performed a series 30th anniversary shows with Ross Percy (Ion Drive, Little House Godz) joining George Larin on guitar that included a support slot for the ex-Iron Maiden vocalists Paul Di’AnnoP/Blaze Bayley Australian tour. Despite the success, the band agreed not to continue and returned to retirement.

In 2015, the band decided to re-activate with a lineup of Sham, Karl Lean, George Larin, Ross Percy, and new vocalist Chris Stark. A slot on Melbourne’s Brewtality Metal Festival received positive reviews before the band embarked on a short tour of Japan, which inspired them to continue and lead the band to headline day one of the Steel Assassins Festival in Sydney.

Line-up changes again slowed the band, but with the addition of James Davies now on vocals and Stu Bedford on guitar, the band spent most of 2019 and 2020 writing and recording, what is now to be their first full length in over 30 years. Entitled “No Gods”, the record is Nothing Sacred‘s resurrection to the speed metal world. With a wealth of experience, a bucket load of riffs, and a renewed energy for one of Australia’s longest-running metal bands.

The band adds:

“We think our return with this new album will be received well. We’ve made a conscious effort to not be one-dimensional. We picked a cross-section of tracks we thought would make the album interesting. Though eight of the tracks are brand new, we decided to add two tracks ‘Final Crime’ and ‘Oracle’ we wrote for our 2nd album in the late 80’s, but never released.”

To give fans a preview of what’s to come, Nothing Sacred is sharing their music video for the first single “Final Crime”.

The band comments:

“This is one of the two tracks we’d chosen for the No Gods album from our archives that we’d written many moons ago. I saw acid rain and smog, you saw the sunset and a rainbow. There’s no tomorrow just a blank, you’ve only got yourself to thank. Don’t tell me that you never knew, you thought that hope would pull you through. I think those are our favorite lines from Mick Burnham. There’s nothing like stupid people doing nothing till it’s too late. Though this is one of our favorite tracks for some reason, it was never properly recorded and released. Here she is in all her glory, enjoy!”

Watch the music video for “Final Crime” on Rockshots Records YouTube channel – https://youtu.be/uq27JF_5pXI

“No Gods” will be released on July 16, 2021 via Rockshots Records and available for pre-order at the following links:

CD – http://bit.ly/NoGodsCD
Digital http://bit.ly/NoGodsDIGITAL

Track Listing:
1. Final Crime (3:41)
2. Virus (4:22)
3. Cold Black (3:38)
4. First World Problems (4:15)
5. Killing You (3:34)
6. False Prophets (4:00)
7. Ice (3:31)
8. Cult (4:38)
9. Oracle (3:32)
10. Stoner (5:27)
Album Length: 40:45

Album Line Up
Stu Bedford – Guitar
James Davies – Vocals
Karl Lean – Bass
Sham – Drums
George Larin – Guitar

More info:
Rockshots.eu
Nothingsacred.com.au
Facebook.com/NothingSacredMetal
Instagram.com/nothingsacredaustralia

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0 Before it officially drops this Friday, April 23rd via Plan B Music. Montreal’s WarCall is premiering on Decibel Magazine the full stream of their new EP “Dead End Pt. 1”

April 22, 2021
by Asher
· Music News · Warcall

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 22, 2021

For fans of Motorhead, Metallica, Dissection, Iron Maiden, Slayer

Streaming Now! WarCall’s “Dead End Pt. 1”, Tales Of Struggle And Perseverance

EP Stream Premiere via Decibel Magazine

“Dead End Pt. 1” Out April 23rd via Plan B Music

L-R – Phil – Drums, Gord – Vocals / Bass, Mat – Guitar, JC – Guitar
Photo Credit / Artwork: Timur Khabirov

Canada’s WarCall will be dropping two EPs in 2021, their first, “Dead End Pt. 1” will be released on Friday, April 23rd and before it’s officially out, the band has teamed up with Decibel for its full stream premiere HERE.

Melodic and energetic, this four-track EP has a little something for everyone, with influences ranging from old school thrash and death to classic metal and more.

The creation of this EP was unusual for the band, the music was written collaboratively, but the drummer came up with most of the lyrics. He writes about struggle; “Dead End Pt. 1 and 2″ are not concept releases; they are a collection of 9 tales of struggle and how we can overcome them.

Recorded and mixed in a post-apocalyptic setting, the band has let the events of 2020 influence the process and the mood of both EPs, while still aiming for a timeless production that will age well. WarCall has decided to release the first EP, and the other half will be released later this year. They share their thoughts on the recordings:

“We are really proud to release the first EP. It is our best production yet. In terms of songwriting, musicianship, and recording, it represents a step forward in the evolution of the band. Back to being a 4 piece, we focused on writing and arranging songs that emphasize the possibilities they bring.”

The title and artwork represent the doom and gloom of life in the year 2020 and how the human race reacts in the face of death and uncertainty. With the impossibility to meet to even take a band picture, WarCall presents themselves as fictional post-apocalyptic warriors, a subtle comment and nod to the current events that marked the year 2020.

With the modern and crisp production, listeners will be able to enjoy the music of the band as a whole, while being able to focus on each musician’s performance. Whether it is the natural and powerful drums, tight bass, precisely recorded guitars, or the over-the-top vocal performance, each of WarCall’s musicians shine throughout the two EPs to let the music be the main focus.

Fast and dramatic, WarCall is recommended for fans of Dissection, Iron Maiden, and Slayer.

“Dead End Pt. 1” will only be released digitally as of April 23, 2021 via Plan B Music on the following platforms: Warcallmetal.bandcamp.com, Spotify, Apple Music.

Music Video – The Chase – https://youtu.be/vsTqL77jAeQ

Track Listing:
1. Reckless (4:19)
2. Death Wish (8:00)
3. 800x (3:42)
4. The Chase (4:41)
EP Length: 20:44

EP and Live Band Line Up:
Gord – Bass and Vocals
Phil – Drums
Mat – Guitars
JC – Guitars

For more info:
Facebook.com/warcallband
Instagram.com/warcallband
EPK

About:
War has always been an intrinsic part of humanity. Whether it is huge wars involving entire countries or the small wars we all fight every day to survive, it is fair to say that war has defined humanity.

One of the definite treatises on war is Sun Tzu’s ‘The Art of War’; a book still in print to this very day. On the use of music in war, Sun Tzu writes: “Gongs and drums, banners and flags, are means whereby the ears and eyes of the host may be focussed on one particular point.”

Now, we have WarCall, who not only use drums, but also bass, guitars, and vocals to achieve the same end with their growing army of fans.

Inspired by Iron Maiden, Metallica, Motorhead, Dissection, and Slayer, guitarist Mathieu Simard describes WarCall’s music as “fast, aggressive, melodic, dramatic!”.

Now, with four well-received albums under their bullet-belt (Invaders (2017), III (2015), Blood, Guts, and Dirt (2013), Demonarchy (2008)), this power-quartet will unleash two new EPs in 2021, “Dead End Pt. 1” on April 23rd with “Dead End Pt. 2 expected to follow in the Fall via their own label Plan B Music.

As a whole, the two EPs are a collection of 9 songs, 9 stories about struggles during 2020 (“Dead End Pt. 1” being 4 tracks). The EPs were recorded and mixed in a post-apocalyptic setting. As with every album, “Dead End Pt. 1” and “Dead End Pt. 2” are technically more advanced in terms of songwriting and production. Of course, Warcall has evolved as musicians from each album, but they believe that their total is greater than the sum of its parts, so they play what feels right for the metal.

The band comments:

“We have let the events of 2020 influence the process and the mood of the two EPs, while still aiming for a timeless production that will age well in time. The title and artwork represent the doom and gloom of life in the year 2020 and how the human race reacts in the face of death and uncertainty. With the impossibility to meet to even take a band picture, WarCall presents themselves as fictional post-apocalyptic warriors, a subtle comment and nod to the current events that marked the year 2020.”

Live, post covid times, WarCall will truly give it their all with total authenticity. What you hear on their recordings is what you hear on stage. Energetic, powerful, focused, and proficient performances ready to encourage the circle pit.

WarCall has toured Europe (FR, DE, BE, CZE, SP) three times along with multiple tours across Eastern Canada. They have also been opening support for such bands as Destruction, Anvil, Paul Di’Anno, Kalmah, Catamenia, Impaled Nazarene, Arkona, Norther, Anonymus, Slaves on Dope, Martyr, Reanimator, Wolven Ancestry.

WarCall’s new EP “Dead End Pt. 1” is due out April 23rd, 2021 via Plan B Music.

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“Big things are happening for Montreal’s WarCall…Motor-Maiden-‘tallica brand of street wise thrash…” – Decibel Mag

“The creativeness they’ve put into their debut far surpasses anything else I have heard from new Canadian bands this year…Inventive, fun, crisp and a great first offering”. – Exclaim!

“WARCALL’s delivery is fresh, powerful, with good drive and melodies and this tight-knit feeling that just gives you this sense of urgency.” – The Metal Observer

“Actually, “very very heavy” doesn’t go far enough. “Bully Bastard” slugs had enough to loosen teeth and leave bruises, and the grooves are damned compulsive, too, so loosen up your neck muscles before diving into this track. But while the song rocks hard enough to shake listeners like rag dolls, the music also channels rage and intensity through the raw grit of the vocals and the grim (but very catchy) vehemence of the riffs.” – No Clean Singing

“Fans of an old school thrash/speed sound will find plenty to enjoy throughout Invaders. 10 tracks of meaty metal that makes you want to dig out the old patch jacket & head-bang until your neck fuses.” – Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life

“If you enjoy old school thrash, early speedy rock ‘n’ metal MOTÖRHEAD or DARKTHRONE in their thrashy black metal/crusty punk phase then WARCALL will wet your appetite and get you salivating! Dig out your battle vest, your whitewashed denim jeans, and white trainers and bang that head furiously!” – All About The Rock

“It’s fast, it’s heavy, it’s exciting, and it doesn’t try too hard to be something it’s not, while also knowing exactly what it is. That’s a rare trait to have in a band, and it shows their consistency and maturity as songwriters; you can really tell this is not their first album. The ultimate takeaway here is that WARCALL deserve a lot more attention than what they’re currently getting. I hope to see them take things to the next level on their next full-length.” – Metal Temple

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0 Bravewords Premiere: Streaming Now! “Future Shock” From San Diego Thrashers MONARCH

April 15, 2021
by Asher
· Monarch · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 15, 2021

For fans of Slayer, Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Testament, Exodus

Streaming Now! “Future Shock” From San Diego Thrashers MONARCH

Album Stream Premiere via Bravewords

New Album “Future Shock” Out April 16, 2021

L-R – Gabe Mendez (Bass), Adam West (Drums), Matt Smith (Vocals/Guitar), Casey Trask (Guitar)
Photo Credit: Astrid Anaya

San Diego’s MONARCH will be unleashing their sophomore album “Future Shock” on Friday, April 16th and before this electrifying thrash thriller hits the moshpit, the band has teamed up with Bravewords for its full stream premiere HERE.

The band adds:

“Future Shock hits hard on a lot of levels, there are the riffs, the solos, the speed, the heaviness, the melodies, great memorable lyrics, the dynamic range of our creativity we think was truly expressed, and yet we still managed to sound like ourselves. We all just really look forward to sharing it with everyone. At the time of this release, the world is still battling the COVID-19 virus in parts of the world and we think it will be a welcome escape from having to worry so much right now. We should all be cautious of course, but we can’t make our lives not worth living.”

Compared to their first, very DIY album, 2017’s “Go Forth… Slaughter”, MONARCH‘s next escapade “Future Shock” was done professionally at Clarity Recordings in El Cajon, California, and is a big step forward for the band both musically and sonically. It explores the entire spectrum of the band’s creativity, with each song varying in sound, but maintains a cohesive feeling. The overall concept of the full length is a comprehensive plan of action to be taken globally, nationally, and locally by organizations of the United Nations system, governments, and major groups in every area in which human impacts on the environment.

Recommended for fans of Exodus, Slayer, and Testament, MONARCH‘s “Future Shock” will be available on April 16, 2021 at the following links:

(CD, Vinyl) – https://monarch.band
Spotify

Music Videos:
“Nuclear Warfare” – https://youtu.be/eI9R0LNYGHM
“Shred or Die!” – https://youtu.be/DOgceZdx2mU

Live video at Wacken 2019:
Khaos Warrior – https://youtu.be/wXiU078YKM0
Full Wacken Set – https://youtu.be/Gjct4mbhdxM

More Info:
Monarch.band
Facebook.com/monarchthrash
Instagram.com/monarch666
Twitter.com/riseofmonarch
EPK

– 30 –

““Go Forth… Slaughter” is a loud record that is full of twists and turns. Hopefully this release encourages Monarch to do some touring beyond Southern California, because songs like these need more ears.” – SD Metal

“A very colorful cover can also win over many fence-sitting people – and the rawer attention to detail on the production front gives us a clearer picture of what to expect live (a sinister snare snap plus in your face guitar tones duly noted). Go Forth…Slaughter executes in that late 80’s/early 90’s thrash/death platform, where people lost interest in major label veterans straying into commercial waters. Monarch makes it safe for you to trust their music: brutal, aggressive, and all for the love of the genre.” – Dead Rhetoric

“‘a super solid speed metal record.” – Metal Assault (2017 – Review – Go Forth... Slaughter)

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

Jon Asher – Music Publicist
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0 Rockshots Records: Greek Prog Power Illusory Shares “All Blood Red” Off Upcoming Album “Crimson Wreath”

April 9, 2021
by Asher
· Illusory (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 9, 2021

For fans of Iron Maiden, Queensryche, Savatage, Jag Panzer

Rockshots Records: Greek Prog Power Illusory Shares “All Blood Red” Off Upcoming Album “Crimson Wreath”

New Album “Crimson Wreath” Out May 21, 2021

Set to release their third full-length “Crimson Wreath” on May 21, 2021 via Rockshots Records, Greece’s prog power Illusory are sharing the record’s third single “All Blood Red”.

“All Blood Red is a melodic song with strong lyrics and a ‘Maidenish’ essence in the middle part. It is the only song off the album that we have performed in previous gigs, in raw editions every time. The reaction of the fans was astonishing, even though they have never heard it before. We share the same blood. All people share the same blood, regardless of skin color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, economic status, financial comfort, personal beliefs. We sing about it, we speak about it, we act about it. After all, “when all is gone, all blood is red”!” adds the band.

“All Blood Red” can be heard at the following links:

YouTube (lyric video): https://youtu.be/3Amq-A7CHOQ

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/39WpYz4

Having opened for such legendary acts Blue Oyster Cult, Warrel Dane, Geoff Tate, and Gus G, Illusory‘s new album “Crimson Wreath” is the next step in their widely praised evolution to follow 2016’s Polysllabic (7hard/7us) and 2013’s “The Ivory Tower” (The Leaders Records).

The band comments:

“Crimson Wreath” has a very warm and solid sound and we feel very proud of the production we have done for it. It is an album that we recorded during one of the toughest times of our lives. We self-produced it with Yiannis and Dee doing an exceptional job mixing and mastering the tracks. It just sounds humongous! We feel we truly captured what we wanted to achieve in C.W.”

For fans of Iron Maiden, Queensryche, Savatage, Jag Panzer, Illusory‘s “Crimson Wreath” is available for pre-order at the following link: http://bit.ly/CrimsonWreathCD

Previous singles
Besetting Sins – Lyric Video – https://youtu.be/9L179x_ygPE
Crimson Wreath – https://youtu.be/vjESuD9tNfc

ILLUSORY is:
Dee Theodorou – Vocals
George Papantonis – Guitars
Greg Bakos – Guitars
Niki Danos – Bass
Makis Vandoros – Keyboards
Costas Koulis – Drums

For more info:
Roc kshots.eu
Illusoryband.com
Facebook.com/illusoryband
Instagram/illusory_band
Twitter.com/illusoryband

– 30 –

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
asher[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
Instagram @AsherMedia
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0 PHEAR Announce New Drummer Mike Harshaw (ex-Annihilator, ex-Mastery)

April 7, 2021
by Asher
· Music News · PHEAR

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 7, 2021

For fans of Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Nevermore, Megadeth, Metallica

PHEAR Announce New Drummer Mike Harshaw (ex-Annihilator, ex-Mastery)

Canadian heavy metallers Phear announce drummer Mike Harshaw (ex-Annihilator, ex-Mastery) to their lineup, which also follows the band’s recent recruitment of guitarist Alex Zubair (Nader Sadek, Iomair, ex-Nephelium, Burn To Black, AZP (Alex Zubair Project)).

The band issued the following statement:

“Attention Phearmongers! Please help us in welcoming our newest brother in arms, Mr. Mike Harshaw, to the ranks of Phear!! We’re not sure if Mike knows what he’s in for?? But the contract has been signed, his blood oath had been given, and now he’s one of us!! … and we’re stoked to have him on board! W have all our pieces are in place… time to tear it up!”

Phear is Patrick Mulock (Vocals) (ex-Rampage, ex-Eidolon), Chris Boshis (Bass) (ex-Conflicted), Alex Zubair (Guitar), Pat Rogers (Guitar) (ex-Profaner) and Mike Harshaw (Drums). Formed in 2014, with their hybrid sound of power thrash, the band debuted their full-length “Insanitarium” in 2015 followed by their 2017 EP “The Curse Lives On”. The band is currently in studio working on recording new material with producer Jon Howard (Threat Signal, Imonolith) for a yet-to-be-determined release date.

Over the years, Phear has shared the stage with Udo Dirkschneider, The Dead Daisies, Stryper, and were openers on the 2019 Toronto pre-show (Budweiser Stage) for legends and heroes Iron Maiden.

The band’s latest music video covering Nevermore’s Narcosynthesis with Jon Howard can be viewed at the following link: https://youtu.be/Nim0870uL7A

Phear‘s releases can be found on Spotify, Apple Music, and all other digital platforms.

For more info:
Phearband.com
Facebook.com/phearband
Instagram.com/spreadthephear
Twitter.com/SpreadThePhear
YouTube
EPK

– 30 –

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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#.514.581.5780
jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
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