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Tag: news

0 Canadian Prog CANDOR ZEALOT (ft. ex-members of Annihilator, The Slyde) Make Their Debut w/ Single “Lie For Country”

  • January 20, 2026
  • by Asher
  • · Candor Zealot · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 20, 2026

Canadian Prog CANDOR ZEALOT (ft. ex-members of Annihilator, The Slyde) Make Their Debut w/ Single “Lie For Country”

L-R – Chris Gagnon (Guitar, Vocals) | Nate Silva (Lead Vocals, Guitar) | Dino Soares (Drums) | Alberto Campuzano (Bass Guitar, Vocals)

Photo Credit: Ryan Stacey

Canadian (Ottawa, ON) progressive metal newcomers Candor Zealot are set to make their explosive debut with “Lie For Country”, the first in a series of singles to be released throughout 2026. With a sound that fuses the melodic intricacy of Rush and Dream Theater with the raw energy of Megadeth, Billy Talent, and Killswitch Engage, Candor Zealot are poised to deliver a fresh yet nostalgic take on modern progressive rock and heavy metal.
​
Formed by frontman Nate Silva after the disbandment of his previous project, The Slyde, in 2019, Candor Zealot emerged from years of creative exploration, pandemic delays, and solo ventures. Recruiting many of the same musicians from The Slyde, Silva describes the band as a “spiritual successor” to his earlier work, only this time with a sharper name and a renewed focus on honesty and intensity.
​
​“‘Lie For Country’ is our debut single, and we wanted to introduce ourselves with breakneck speed, musical intensity, and a poignant political message. There are influences of Megadeth, Killswitch Engage, Billy Talent, and even System of a Down in this track, and it’s a song about being manipulated and politically indoctrinated without thinking critically. We are proud of this track, and we are pumped to release it!” – Nate Silva, Candor Zealot
​
Rather than releasing a traditional full-length album, Candor Zealot will roll out six singles across 2026, each designed to capture attention in today’s fast-paced listening culture. Fans can expect melodic hooks, technical proficiency, and thought-provoking lyrics that tackle both politics and relationships, two universal themes that resonate deeply.
​
​Candor Zealot is comprised of seasoned musicians with deep roots in Canada’s metal scene, including ex-members of Annihilator and The Slyde. Frontman Nate Silva (vocals/guitar), formerly of The Slyde, is an international touring artist and academic researcher on chiptune music. Guitarist Chris Gagnon, based in Ottawa, is a versatile performer active in eight tribute bands covering acts from Queen to Rage Against the Machine. Drummer Dino Soares, a longtime collaborator with Silva since their teenage years, continues to freelance in Kingston’s music scene. On bass, Alberto Campuzano, formerly of Annihilator, also performs with Toronto’s Metallica tribute act Sandman. Collectively, the band brings decades of experience and a proven pedigree, highlighted by Silva, Soares, and Campuzano’s performance at Wacken Open Air in Germany after winning the 2019 Wacken Metal Battle Canada with The Slyde.
​
With “Lie For Country” as their fiery introduction, Candor Zealot plans to release five more singles throughout 2026, followed by additional recordings in 2027.

Listen to “Lie For Country” at the following links:

Add yo your Spotify playlist – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/candorzealot/lie-for-country-2

​

Music Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f26f_KNVBq0

​

For more info:

​http://candorzealot.com/​

​https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582854735079​

​https://www.instagram.com/candorzealot​

​https://www.tiktok.com/@candorzealot​

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​
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0 Ottawa’s DOLL Premiere New Single “Bear Claw” To Follow 2025 Comeback Album “Better Days, Better Times”

  • January 16, 2026
  • by Asher
  • · DOLL · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 16, 2026

Ottawa’s DOLL Premiere New Single “Bear Claw” To Follow 2025 Comeback Album “Better Days, Better Times”

Ottawa alternative rock band DOLL launches into 2026 with the release of their explosive new single “Bear Claw,” premiering today exclusively via New Noise Magazine alongside a brand‑new lyric video. The track serves as the next chapter in the band’s creative resurgence following their 2025 comeback album “Better Days, Better Times.”​
​
​“Bear Claw” continues DOLL’s evolving “Animal Crackers” trilogy, which began earlier this year with the fan‑favourite single “Shark Bait,” featured on “Better Days, Better Times.”​
​
​“We had such an amazing response to our first ‘Animal Crackers’ concept with ‘Shark Bait. We always planned to release three animal‑themed songs, but that positive feedback really propelled us as we finalized the next piece of the trilogy, Bear Claw,” the band explains.
​
The band believes fans will connect strongly with this new installment:

“I think it’s safe to say this is our best effort yet. We brought back some of that legacy DOLL riffing, mixed in the hardcore elements we toyed with in ‘Shark Bait,’ and really pushed ourselves creatively with the vocals and lyrics. We hope this one is just as well received, if not better. I guess it depends on whether you’re more of a land or sea animal lover.” ​
​
The single’s artwork pays homage to classic Smokey the Bear posters, reimagined through DOLL’s gritty, tongue‑in‑cheek lens. Artist Mark Kidd once again brought the concept to life with bold character design and a nostalgic yet rebellious aesthetic.
​
​“We wanted to revive some of the artwork we grew up with. We went heavy on that Smokey‑the‑Bear look, but added our own comedic twist, putting Doll on the hat and rebranding Smokey as Grungey. He’s got a chip on his shoulder, some attitude,” the band adds.
​
Musically, “Bear Claw” taps into the band’s classic sound while pushing into new territory. The track features signature leads, heavy wah‑wah pedal work, Christina’s unmistakable bends, and bursts of rapid‑fire strumming. The chorus hits with a hardcore‑infused punch from Pete, driven by drop‑tuned guitars that add weight and urgency.
​
The band also leaned into atmosphere and tension, crafting a breakdown recorded through a low‑fi head and amp setup to create a spooky, suspenseful moment before slamming back in with the crunch of the PRS MT100. The result is a dynamic blend of old‑school grit and modern heaviness, achieved without relying on keyboards, instead letting raw instrumentation carry the emotion.
​
With “Bear Claw,” DOLL continue to build on their renewed momentum, delivering a track that’s fierce, fun, and unmistakably their own.

“This song is definitely our most creative vocally. Christina changed up the delivery in ways we haven’t done before. We wanted the song to be fun, with some light‑hearted lyrics, but still true to the raw rock vocal and lyrical style that DOLL has always been about.”​
​
Watch the “Bear Claw” lyric video via its premiere on New Noise Magazine HERE.

Add to your Spotify Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/1BGF0Pec0KtHMKPFUaOIPY

Single Recording Credits:
• All songs performed by: Doll
• All songs written by: Doll
• Produced by: Josh Hart
• Mixed by: Josh Hart
• Mastered by: Josh Hart
• Single Artwork by: Mark Kidd
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

Single Band Line Up: Pete Kasper, Christina Kasper, Josh Hart

More info: https://www.facebook.com/dollband | https://www.instagram.com/dollbandmusic/​

About: After a long hiatus, DOLL returned in 2025 with their album “Better Days, Better Times,” re‑establishing themselves as one of Ottawa’s most compelling alternative rock acts. Formed in Ottawa, Ontario, DOLL first broke onto the scene with their 2009 debut “Inside The Dollhouse,” followed by 2011’s “The Ragdoll Diaries.” Their music has been featured on MuchMusic and MusiquePlus, and the band has shared stages with Three Days Grace, Lacuna Coil, Danko Jones, Spinnerette, Protest the Hero, Band of Skulls, Anvil, Halestorm, SNFU, Hanzel Und Gretyl, Civet, The Creepshow, Die Mannequin, and more.

-30-

What the press has said about DOLL:

​!earshot – August 2025 – Top 20 Loud – #5 – DOLL – Canadian Campus Radio Charts (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

​!earshot – August 2025 – Top 200 – #55 – DOLL – Canadian Campus Radio Charts (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“#1 Doll – Zach’s Picks of the Week – July 7 – 12, 2025 – Canadian Beats (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“In one of the best comeback stories in music in 2025, Canadian Alt-Rock duo DOLL will release their first new collection of material since 2011’s The Ragdoll Diaries… In addition to five slamming originals, DOLL chips in an inspired take on the Deep Purple classic rock anthem – “Smoke On the Water!” “- Ghost Cult Magazine (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“Doll sharpens their grit with new muscle and melody. Their return after more than a decade is not a nostalgia trip but a rebirth. The Ottawa band’s forthcoming EP Better Days, Different Times (July 18th) expands their core formula of raw energy and no-frills honesty by inviting new players and broader sonic choices into the mix. But even with cello flourishes and genre jumps, their identity remains firmly intact.” – Amplify The Noise (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“The new track ‘Shark Bait’ from Doll is a blast! The world has been celebrating the 50th anniversary of “JAWS” and now we have a brand new punk-fueled bite in the pants to go along with all of the bloody hoopla. ‘Shark Bait’ is basically straight ahead hardcore riffage with razor sharp teeth, fun lyrics and a precursor to their new EP, ‘Better Days, Different Times’ set for a July 18th release. Catch it on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“DOLL has returned as potent and as impressive as they were before but with greater impact we suggest, Better Days, Better Times quite simply a must exploration for punk and feral rock hearts.” – The Ring Master Review (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“Christina Kasper’s changeable voice is impressive.” – Keep On Rocking (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

“‘Bleeding’ is a colourful mixture of Hard and Alternative Rock, paired with influences from Punk and Gothic, in a very melancholic sounding melody. The powerful voice of singer Christina Kasper dominates like a siren. ” – Metal Heads Forever Magazine (2025 – Better Days, Better Times)

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0 Gore House Productions – Slam Titans INSECT INSIDE Unleashes “Carnal Ruins” From New Album “Reborn in Blight” Out March 2026

  • January 14, 2026
  • by Asher
  • · Insect Inside (Gore House Productions) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 14, 2026

Slam Titans INSECT INSIDE Unleashes “Carnal Ruins”

New Album “Reborn in Blight” Out March 2026 via Gore House Productions

Rising slam force Insect Inside are preparing to unleash their next wave of devastation with the release of “Carnal Ruins,” the newest single from their upcoming full‑length “Reborn in Blight”, arriving March 6th, 2026, via Gore House Productions. Emerging from the Eastern European underground, the band has sharpened their sound into something unmistakably their own, tight, aggressive, and drenched in the bleak atmosphere of the death metal that shaped them.

“Carnal Ruins” embodies that evolution. Described by the band as the album’s main brawler, the track delivers hardcore‑infused groove, relentless blastbeats, and a stripped‑down attack that pays homage to New York death metal icons like Soils of Fate, Internal Bleeding, and Dying Fetus. It stands as both a tribute and a declaration of the band’s place among slam’s heaviest modern acts.

The single follows the crushing momentum of “Hiveborn Abomination,” featuring Defeated Sanity’s Josh Welshman, a track that showcases the band’s ability to merge speed, groove, and suffocating atmosphere. Together, these singles set the stage for an album promising overwhelming heaviness, sharpened songwriting, and a deeper dive into the band’s dark, atmospheric tendencies.

This growth stems from a disciplined writing process shaped by distance; members living in different cities compose individually before refining ideas together. Daniel leads the songwriting, while he and Ivan craft the album’s apocalyptic lyrical vision, telling vivid stories of humanity’s extinction and the rise of an insectoid race.

Formed from a shared obsession with slamming brutality, Insect Inside evolved from casual jam sessions into a full‑fledged force featuring seasoned veterans: Bogdan (bass), Pavel (guitar), Daniel (vocals), and Ivan (drums). Their live shows are notorious for chaotic energy, relentless pits, and even fans in dinosaur costumes, a raw spirit reflected in the band’s shift toward a more visceral production style on “Reborn in Blight.”

Visually anchored by artwork the band calls gloomy and disgusting, the album delivers a grotesque fusion of groove‑based slam and dark brutal death metal across ten crushing tracks.

With “Carnal Ruins,” Insect Inside delivers another strike before the full album drops, a clear statement of intent and a promise of the brutality still to come.

Listen to “Carnal Ruins” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3wB_kSpCzY

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/4ZtW0SfFfeoCuA1x1zBUMy

​

and previous single “Hiveborn Abomination” with guest vocals from Josh Welshman of Defeated Sanity at the following links:

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OhaFr5xtoEo​

Drum Playthrough – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2sfgjF0-JVw​

Recommended for fans of Relics of Humanity, Internal Bleeding, Stabbing, Devourment, and Disfigurement of Flesh, “Reborn in Blight” will be available March 6, 2026, via Gore House Productions.

Pre‑orders are now live on Digital, Vinyl, CD, and Cassette: https://orcd.co/reborn-in-blight​

Track Listing:​
1. Echoes Of The Swallowed Sinners – 3:31
2. Abhorrent Landscape (feat. Cephalotripsy) – 2:54
3. Fragments – 2:18
4. Putrid Lament – 3:35
5. Hiveborn Abomination (feat. Defeated Sanity) – 2:51
6. Flesh Cathedral – 3:00
7. Obscuration Worship – 1:20
8. Carnal Ruins – 2:45
9. Parasite Messiah (feat. Pestilectomy) – 3:29
10. Reborn In Blight – 5:22

Album and Live Band Line Up:​
Daniel Sementsov – Drums
Bogdan Pisavnin – Bass
Pavel Pleshkov – Guitar
Ivan Tyulkin – Vocals

More info: ​​

​https://gorehouseproductions.com/​

​https://www.facebook.com/insectinsideslam​

​https://www.instagram.com/insect_inside​

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“From the Russian city of Zlatoust which overlooks the river Ay, famed for its creation of swords and sabres, beautiful instruments of death, comes the decimating sonic assault of Insect Inside. Lured into the web of Gore House Productions, Insect Inside are now primed to unleash the fear infused death metal of The First Shining Of New Genus on an unsuspecting world… An intro with some impact, the squelch of footsteps through what sounds like a swamp, leading to the cries of some poor victim sets the stage for Insect Inside’s The First Shining of New Genus. Focus on the filth, because that is what this band deliver in spates across nine rough and tough death metal tracks.” – Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life

“Insect Inside relies on unpredictability to elevate beyond the brutal stereotype. Shifting tempos, groovy rhythms, technical leads, pinch harmonics, and flashes of dissonance keep its grinding slams and beatdown sections from growing too stagnant… Insect Inside’s The First Shining of New Genus offers concussive slam that will get you buzzing.” – Angry Metal Guy

“A surprisingly level of hookiness invades Insect Inside, while they still deliver on all of the body-crippling violence you would expect from such an act. The First Shining of New Genus is a release that you can groove along with in addition to getting your daily dose of utter brutality.” – Dead Rhetoric​
​

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0 Exitus Stratagem Records – Tech-Death Shredder MATT MILLER Unleashes Guitar Playthrough for “Maimed Paralyzed Dead” From Latest Album “Fiber Tormentum”

  • January 14, 2026
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Matt Miller

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 14, 2026

Tech-Death Shredder MATT MILLER Unleashes Guitar Playthrough for “Maimed Paralyzed Dead” From Latest Album “Fiber Tormentum”

L-R – Justice Robinett (Bass), Jordan Kelso (Drums, Synth), Matt Miller (Guitars, Synth), Biko Wright (Vocals)

Photo Credit – Lilly May Everett

Technical death metal visionary Matt Miller has unveiled a new guitar playthrough video for “Maimed Paralyzed Dead,” one of the most harrowing and cinematic tracks from his latest full‑band album, “Fiber Tormentum,” released through Exitus Stratagem Records. The video captures Miller’s trademark blend of precision, intensity, and melodic ferocity, offering fans a close look at the technical prowess behind one of the album’s most monstrous compositions.

“Maimed Paralyzed Dead” occupies a pivotal place in the album’s overarching sci‑fi narrative, depicting the grotesque physical consequences of alien‑engineered DNA manipulation.

“Musically, it’s something out of a monster movie. Like a zombie crawling on the floor or lumbering toward its victim.” The playthrough highlights the track’s relentless rhythmic shifts, soaring leads, and crushing atmosphere, all of which have become defining elements of Miller’s evolving sound,” explains Miller.

The release of the “Maimed Paralyzed Dead” guitar playthrough marks another step in that progression, offering fans a visceral look into the technical and emotional core of “Fiber Tormentum.” With its blend of cinematic horror, technical mastery, and thematic depth, the track stands as a testament to Miller’s commitment to crafting music that is both overwhelming and unforgettable.

Watch the playthrough: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBIYWn7U8RI

“Fiber Tormentum” represents a major turning point in Miller’s career. Originally conceived as an instrumental record, the album transformed once he realized the material demanded a broader emotional and narrative range. The addition of vocalist Biko Wright, drummer Jordan Kelso, and bassist Justice Robinett elevated the project into a fully realized band.

“I knew it needed to be a proper album with vocals and the input of other people to make it come to life. This album features the heaviest, most melodic, and most technical music in my catalog so far,” adds Miller.
​
The album blends technical death metal, power metal, progressive elements, and epic vocal hooks into a sound Miller describes as relentless, soaring, crushing, intense, and epic. Lyrically, “Fiber Tormentum” forms a loose concept album centered on an advanced alien civilization subtly reshaping human DNA to enslave humanity. The story draws influence from real‑world anxieties and the societal fallout of the COVID‑19 era, giving the record a thematic weight that matches its musical aggression.
​
The album’s artwork, created by the late Joshua Nassaru Ward (Voraath), visually captures the torment of the narrative. The central figure’s face contorts in agony as its DNA fibers are forcibly rewritten, echoing the album’s themes of transformation, invasion, and loss of autonomy. The title itself, Fiber Tormentum, references the sound a Roman ballista makes when its ropes tighten before firing, a metaphor for tension, destruction, and the inevitability of conflict.
​
Miller’s journey to this moment began in 2020, when he launched his solo project during the pandemic. After touring the United States with Rings of Saturn on the Cyber Shred Tour 2022, he assembled his current lineup and soon after embarked on a European tour supporting death metal pioneers Possessed. Each member brings a diverse musical background, ranging from metal and jazz to folk and bluegrass, resulting in a dynamic and collaborative creative process.

“We strive to offer a show that grabs everyone’s attention. We play crushing technical music, but we want everyone to sing along and bang their heads,” says Miller.
​
The making of “Fiber Tormentum” was marked by its share of memorable moments. Vocalist Biko Wright tracked his parts between filming sessions for the Discovery Channel’s Expedition Bigfoot. The band became such regulars at a local Subway during recording that staff reserved a table for them every Tuesday and Thursday night. Their attempts to record samples using high‑end pianos and harps in music stores resulted in them being banned from multiple locations. And somewhere on the album, a hidden “One Take Willy” outburst, Biko’s triumphant shout after nailing a one‑take performance, awaits listeners with sharp ears.
​
Miller’s musical evolution has been steady and relentless. From his early instrumental EP in 2017 to the 2022 release of “Monument of Velocity” and his extensive catalog of covers and original material, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of extreme music. Now aligned with Extreme Management Group and backed by a full band of world‑class musicians, he continues to expand his reach and refine his sound.
​
Recommended for fans of Necrophagist, Symphony X, Wintersun, The Faceless, and Death, “Fiber Momentum” (released Sept 12th) is available on all major platforms through Exitus Stratagem Records.

Digital – https://hypeddit.com/mattmiller/fibertormentum​

CD – https://www.exsrmusic.com/store/p/wnn3m10s6beq0pbmnot0e17ghvj629​

Guitar Playthrough – Descent into Violence – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCj0AKSkSTc​

Music Video – Effecively Neutralized – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJDoR9JL9b8​

Band Playthrough – Summoned – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FJxxg_dd2k​

Track Listing:​
1. Descent into Violence (5:04)
2. Summoned (3:33)
3. Effectively Neutralized (4:53)
4. Blight and Disfigurement (3:23)
5. Maimed Paralyzed Dead (3:12)
6. Horror Beyond Comprehension (3:15)
7. Fiber Tormentum (Instrumental) (3:31)
8. Abiotic Origin (3:14)
Album Length: 30:08

Album Lineup:​
Matt Miller (Guitars, Synth)
Jordan Kelso (Drums, Synth)
Justice Robinett (Bass)
Biko Wright (Vocals)

For more info:

​Exsrmusic.com | Shreded1.com | Facebook.com/matt.miller.96995238 | Instagram.com/mattmiller630

– 30 –

“All in all, it’s a fascinating song (Effectively Neutralized) — head-spinning and heart-palpitating but also a heavy-hitter and a conjurer of strange, sinister, and haunting visions. In other words, in the space of just five minutes it pulls off a lot of impressive feats. And the well-filmed and well-edited video for it is a perfect complement, in that it shows us how all these talented performers executed all the impressive accomplishments.” – NoCleanSinging

“Hell yeah. Holy moly canoli. Fiverr to Fiber Momentum, and that was the album. This song is Descent into Violence. Holy moly canoli, dude. Go support, Matt Miller. That was absolutely badass. Total shredding. Jordan, also a homie of mine, your drums are incredible. The new singer, Bo, I love the harsh vocals in the clean. Total is it almost the cleans almost reminded me of Queensryche meets Cannibal Corpse. It’s pretty freaking sweet. And of course, Justice always lays down the heavy bass with the beautiful bass faces. But an absolutely incredible album….Matt Miller, you could find him everywhere. He’s an incredible guitar player, one of the best guitar players of our generation. Remember, this is Fiber Tormentum courtesy of Exitus Stratagem Records. So, a huge shout-out to them as well. Matt Miller has so many more songs. If you guys like this song (Descent into Violence), believe me, this guy is an absolute shred master. Not only does he do like a ton of his own originals, he does a ton of covers, and also he’s just a shred master of all sorts. Just exactly how they say, melodic, technical, and death. But I will definitely say the big thing that stands apart about this whole song is great structure, absolutely shredding on all levels, and the vocals are just 100% one-of-a-kind. And I totally enjoyed it. Guys, I love you guys from the bottom of my heart. This has been Matt Miller with his new song, Descent into Violence. Pick up the new album on September 12, Fiber Tormentum.” – Omar Rodriguez – The Metal Mixtape – YouTube Channel

“The songs on “Fiber Tormentum” are rather good, and make for very interesting listening sessions.” – Metal Temple
​
“”Fiber Tormentum” is a real killer and so refreshingly creative that you can’t help but toast this previously unknown genius in awe! Cheers! 9/10″ – PowerMetal.de

“Soaring, crushing, ferocious, emotive, and relentless, are words that strongly describe Decrepit Shed. The album has a lot to offer from various metal sub-genres and encompasses the best elements of technical guitar playing while still having well-written songs”. – Brave Words

“Monument of Velocity” initially had a different title and was not going to be a Matt Miller release and some of the songs were written with vocals in mind and were not going to be instrumental, however, it turned out to be the sixth of seven powerful albums in his discography. contains eight tracks full of technical and progressive metal eliciting feelings of suspense, and tension while being fun, melodic and brutally heavy. Miller’s melodic and relentless music has a wide range of influences and is recommended for fans of Jeff Loomis, Necrophagist, and Obscura.” – Rock’n’ Load

“Even though Miller’s music is instrumental, he likes to think of the guitar as a voice. Which in turn makes him ask what is the guitar saying? He is able to easily convey emotion, tone, and a story even without the use of vocals. Throughout his releases, his music has developed a more modern sound in both the music and the production. Musically the songs are more well written and a lot of the ideas he writes are being accurately represented. He is always trying to push himself as a musician and this is reflected in his discography. Influenced primarily by technical and progressive death metal with a dash of power metal and symphonic metal as well, Matt Miller’s music is recommended for fans of Obscura, Dragon Force, and Racer X” – Metal Sucks

“Mr. Miller can shred like his fingers are on fire” – Ever-Metal.com

“Matt shreds all over this album with guitar solos galore”. – Transcending the Mundane

“Soaring, crushing, ferocious, and emotive, Miller conveys a wide range of tones throughout his instrumental music. It is recommended for fans of Dragon Force, Racer X, and Jeff Loomis” – Metal-Rules

“For guitar enthusiasts, I guess it is a feast for the eyes and ears.” – Antichrist Magazine

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0 RAVENMOCKER Unleashes A Fierce First Step Into a New Era of Melodic Death Metal w/ Debut Single “Infallible”

  • January 12, 2026
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Ravenmocker

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 12, 2026

RAVENMOCKER Unleashes A Fierce First Step Into a New Era of Melodic Death Metal w/ Debut Single “Infallible”

From L – R – Dylan Suierveld – Drums, George Patmas – Guitar, Tom Tierney – Guitar and Vocals, Will Buckley – Bass

Photo Credits – Kim Moran – Photographer

Southern California’s newest force in melodic death metal, Ravenmocker, has released their debut single, “Infallible”, accompanied by a music video to mark the band’s official arrival and the first of several tracks set to drop throughout the year. Formed in 2025 by guitarist/vocalist Tom Tierney, the band emerges from a period of personal upheaval, creative rebirth, and a desire to carve out a culturally rooted identity inspired by Native American lore.

Joined by guitarist George Patmas (ex‑Dianthus), drummer Dylan Suierveld (Levinia), and bassist Will Buckley (Levinia, Anubis), the band quickly developed a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh. Their influences span Children of Bodom, Insomnium, Amon Amarth, Kalmah, and Dark Tranquillity, while each member brings unexpected flavors, country, jazz fusion, blues, funk, and classical choral music into the mix.

Ravenmocker’s writing process is collaborative, dynamic, and rooted in emotional honesty. While Tierney currently leads much of the songwriting, every member contributes ideas, arrangements, and refinements.
​
​“We want to write good songs, not just content. These songs were years in the making. The melodies should stick with you. We want people singing with us at shows. We want to give fans something they can feel together,” adds Tierney.

The band’s first single, “Infallible,” represents the moment everything changed for Tierney, the song that pushed him to leave behind a project he’d been part of for five years and fully commit to forging Ravenmocker’s path.

“‘Infallible’ was the turning point. It came from a place in my life that was harming me more than helping me. The guys immediately heard the potential, and it became the first song we worked on. A small clip online hit over 75,000 views, and that connection really showed us this was the right direction. This song started it all,” explains Tierney.
​
​“Infallible” tells the story of a man who has spent too long in darkness, giving everything to an entity that never gave anything back. The track captures the moment he finally walks away, choosing growth, clarity, and self‑determination over turmoil. Musically, the song is energetic and uplifting, while lyrically, it remains cold, rigid, and emotionally raw. This contrast reflects the duality of stepping into a new future while still carrying the weight of resentment, anger, and frustration.
​
The single artwork mirrors this theme: A lone figure stands in the ruins of a devastated city, surrounded by collapsed towers and shattered structures. Amid the destruction, a statue of a raven remains standing, wings spread, defiant, symbolizing resilience, rebirth, and the courage to rise from ruin.

Watch and listen to the music video for “Infallible” via its premiere on NoCleanSinging HERE.

Spotify pre-save – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/ravenmocker/infallible/​

More info:

​http://www.ravenmocker.net/​

​http://www.instagram.com/ravenmockerofficial​

​http://www.facebook.com/ravenmockerofficial​

​http://www.tiktok.com/ravenmockerofficial​

About:

Formed in Southern California in 2025, Ravenmocker is a melodic death metal band founded by guitarist/vocalist Tom Tierney (formerly of Thrown Into Exile). Joined by George Patmas (guitar), Dylan Suierveld (drums), and Will Buckley (bass), the band blends soaring melody with raw aggression, drawing influence from melodic death metal giants while infusing elements of country, jazz, blues, funk, and classical orchestration.
​
Their music explores personal struggle, emotional catharsis, cultural identity, and the resilience found in confronting darkness head‑on.
​
In 2026, Ravenmocker will introduce themselves to the global metal community with their debut singles “Infallible” and “Where the Raven Flies,” leading into their first EP.

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0 Gore House Productions – Blast Beats Unleashed INSECT INSIDE Posts Drum Carnage w/ Playthrough “Hiveborn Abomination” From New Album “Reborn in Blight” Out March 2026

  • January 8, 2026
  • by Asher
  • · Insect Inside (Gore House Productions) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 8, 2026

Blast Beats Unleashed INSECT INSIDE Posts Drum Carnage w/ Playthrough “Hiveborn Abomination”

New Album “Reborn in Blight” Out March 2026 via Gore House Productions

Gore House Productions has released a brand‑new drum playthrough for “Hiveborn Abomination” from brutal death metal unit Insect Inside, showcasing drummer Daniel Sementsov performing the track with the band’s signature blend of precision, speed, and crushing heaviness. The video arrives in the lead-up to the band’s highly anticipated new album, “Reborn in Blight,” set for release on March 6, 2026.
​
The playthrough offers an up‑close look at Sementsov’s blistering technique, capturing the relentless blast beats, punishing double‑kick work, and intricate rhythmic shifts that define Insect Inside’s sound. Shot in a clean, focused studio setting, the video highlights the physical intensity and technical mastery behind the band’s latest material.

Watch the drum playthrough at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2sfgjF0-JVw

​Listen to the blistering track “Hiveborn Abomination” with guest vocals from Josh Welshman of Defeated Sanity at the following links:

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OhaFr5xtoEo

​Add to Spotify Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/5m0cWWNqF9DdVqamY0i1AY

​

Emerging from Chelyabinsk’s underground scene, Insect Inside have carved a reputation for their tight, aggressive sound, an unholy fusion of groove‑heavy slam and oppressive atmospherics. “Reborn in Blight” marks the band’s second full‑length album and showcases a shift toward a rawer, more visceral tone. Lyrically, the record continues their apocalyptic narrative, chronicling humanity’s collapse and the rise of an insectoid race.
​
The album unfolds as a relentless journey through death metal’s most punishing elements. Fragments erupts with chaotic groove and sinister atmosphere, distilling the band’s love for the genre into a concentrated assault. At the album’s core lies “Hiveborn Abomination,” elevated by Defeated Sanity vocalist Josh Welshman’s ferocious guest performance and serving as one of the band’s most commanding creations to date. “Carnal Ruins” pays homage to the New York death metal tradition with a hardcore‑infused, groove‑driven tribute to pioneers like Soils of Fate, Internal Bleeding, and Dying Fetus. The brutality continues with “Abhorrent Landscape,” featuring Mr. Ochoa of Cephalotripsy, whose gutturals reinforce the album’s slam‑heavy foundation. Meanwhile, “Echoes of the Swallowed Sinners” plunges into the darkest lyrical territory, exploring the abyss of humanity’s disfigured souls. The album closes with its towering title track, “Reborn in Blight,” weaving groove, speed, and soaring guitar solos into a monolithic finale.
​
Formed from a shared obsession with slamming brutality, Insect Inside began as friends jamming covers before evolving into a full‑fledged force within the brutal death metal realm. Their lineup features seasoned Eastern European veterans: Bogdan (bass – Cold Blooded Murder, Traumatomy), Pavel (guitar – Ocean In My Bath), Daniel (vocals – Nauseating, Morphogenetic Malformation), and Ivan (drums – Nauseating). Writing collaboratively across different cities, the band crafts a sound that is both meticulously constructed and relentlessly heavy. Onstage, they are notorious for chaotic, high‑energy performances filled with mosh pits, slams, and even fans dressed as dinosaurs.
​
Drawing influence from brutal death and black metal, Insect Inside cite Disentomb, Relics of Humanity, Cryptopsy, Defeated Sanity, and Vulvectomy among their top inspirations. The album’s artwork mirrors the music’s grotesque vision, gloom‑soaked, apocalyptic, and steeped in visceral disgust.
​
​“Reborn in Blight” will be available March 6, 2026, via Gore House Productions.

Pre‑orders are now live on Digital, Vinyl, CD, and Cassette: https://orcd.co/reborn-in-blight​

Track Listing:​
1. Echoes Of The Swallowed Sinners – 3:31
2. Abhorrent Landscape (feat. Cephalotripsy) – 2:54
3. Fragments – 2:18
4. Putrid Lament – 3:35
5. Hiveborn Abomination (feat. Defeated Sanity) – 2:51
6. Flesh Cathedral – 3:00
7. Obscuration Worship – 1:20
8. Carnal Ruins – 2:45
9. Parasite Messiah (feat. Pestilectomy) – 3:29
10. Reborn In Blight – 5:22

Album and Live Band Line Up:​
Daniel Sementsov – Drums
Bogdan Pisavnin – Bass
Pavel Pleshkov – Guitar
Ivan Tyulkin – Vocals

More info: ​​

​https://gorehouseproductions.com/​

​https://www.facebook.com/insectinsideslam​

​https://www.instagram.com/insect_inside​

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“From the Russian city of Zlatoust which overlooks the river Ay, famed for its creation of swords and sabres, beautiful instruments of death, comes the decimating sonic assault of Insect Inside. Lured into the web of Gore House Productions, Insect Inside are now primed to unleash the fear infused death metal of The First Shining Of New Genus on an unsuspecting world… An intro with some impact, the squelch of footsteps through what sounds like a swamp, leading to the cries of some poor victim sets the stage for Insect Inside’s The First Shining of New Genus. Focus on the filth, because that is what this band deliver in spates across nine rough and tough death metal tracks.” – Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life

“Insect Inside relies on unpredictability to elevate beyond the brutal stereotype. Shifting tempos, groovy rhythms, technical leads, pinch harmonics, and flashes of dissonance keep its grinding slams and beatdown sections from growing too stagnant… Insect Inside’s The First Shining of New Genus offers concussive slam that will get you buzzing.” – Angry Metal Guy

“A surprisingly level of hookiness invades Insect Inside, while they still deliver on all of the body-crippling violence you would expect from such an act. The First Shining of New Genus is a release that you can groove along with in addition to getting your daily dose of utter brutality.” – Dead Rhetoric​
​

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0 Rockshots Records – Italian Melodic Death KARMIAN New Single “Beastmaster Of The Void” From Upcoming Album “Horror Vacui” Out March 2026

  • December 19, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · KARMIAN (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 19, 2025

Italian Melodic Death KARMIAN New Single “Beastmaster Of The Void”

New Album “Horror Vacui” Out March 20th, 2026

Italian melodic death metal force KARMIAN open a new and uncompromising chapter with the release of their first single, “Beastmaster of the Void”, taken from the forthcoming full-length “Horror Vacui“. The track arrives accompanied by an official visualizer published on the Rockshots Records YouTube channel.

VIDEO for “Beastmaster Of The Void”: https://youtu.be/-NhBZGSShJE

​DIGITAL: https://lnk.to/PMCdGh​

“Beastmaster of the Void” stands among the album’s most direct and unrelenting compositions – a surge of sharp riffing, relentless pacing, and psychological intensity. Drawing from the real-life crimes tied to the Bestie di Satana case, the song transforms adolescent alienation, obsession, and spiritual distortion into a violent descent through the existential void that defines the entire record. Here, the band channels the chaos, confusion, and moral collapse at the heart of the narrative, turning true events into stark allegory.

The single also offers a first glimpse into the conceptual breadth of “Horror Vacui“: a collection of nine songs, each inspired by a different Italian murderer, revealing how psychological emptiness, social disintegration, and spiritual vacuum mutate into violence. Rather than glorifying crime, the album examines the roots of human collapse – the internal abyss that corrodes empathy, identity, and meaning. Musically, it merges the ferocity of melodic death metal with narrative tension and introspective depth, confirming the band’s distinctive approach to extreme music.

“Horror Vacui” was recorded, mixed, and mastered by Luca Cocconi and Simone Sighinolfi at Audiocore Studio, with artwork and the new Karmian logo created by Sheila Franco. All songs were written by Andrea Baraldi and Nicholas Badiali, with lyrics by Andrea Bertolazzi and arranged collectively by Karmian.

With a career stretching from their early beginnings in 2005 to their present incarnation, Karmian have become one of the most distinctive voices of Italian melodic death metal, known for merging aggression, drama, and conceptual storytelling. Their upcoming full-length marks their most mature and introspective work to date, deepening the psychological and existential focus that has defined their evolution.

For fans of: The Haunted, Kataklysm, Heaven Shall Burn, At The Gates, early Dark Tranquillity, and early In Flames.

New album “Horror Vacui” out March 20th, 2026.

PRE ORDER “Horror Vacui” – https://rockshots.eu/products/karmian-horror-vacui-cd​

Track Listing:​
1. One Thousand Shining Bubbles – 06:38
2. Beastmaster of the Void – 03:21
3. Gott Mit Uns Nicht – 04:38
4. The Call of the Abyssal Bell – 06:17
5. Black Magical Soap Opera – 03:54
6. Temple of the Fleshless Goddess – 03:23
7. Libido et Mors – 03:40
8. Beyond the Dream Gate of Fear – 04:16
9. Maker of Angels – 04:43
Album Length: 40:50

Karmian Line-Up:​
Andrea Bertolazzi: Vocals
Andrea Baraldi: Guitars
Michele Perla: Guitars
Luca Marmi: Bass
Nicholas Badiali: Drums

More info:

​https://rockshots.eu/​

​https://www.instagram.com/karmian_official/​

​https://www.facebook.com/KarmianBand/​

BIOGRAPHY:

Originating from Modena, Italy, Karmian stands as one of the most consistent and distinctive voices in Italian melodic death metal, forging a sound that blends raw aggression, melodic nuance, and strong conceptual depth. Their music draws from the sharp-edged intensity of the Swedish tradition while embodying a uniquely Italian sense of drama, history, and emotional resonance.

The band’s earliest incarnation dates back to 2005, when founders Andrea Baraldi, Mauro Leone, and Nicholas Badiali formed a project under the name When the Storm Broke. Though the group disbanded in 2009 after several lineup changes, the experience laid the foundations for what would later become Karmian. In 2011, the founding members revived the project with the addition of vocalist Andrea Bertolazzi, giving rise to the definitive identity of the band and solidifying their path within melodic death metal.

Karmian debuted in 2012 with the EP “Ways of Death”, a conceptual release exploring psychological decline and the “ways of death” – themes that would become central to the band’s artistic identity. Years of touring across Italy and Europe further strengthened their presence within the extreme metal scene, leading to their first full-length album, “Surgere et Cadere” (2018). Rooted in historical and mythological narratives, the album recounts the struggle of the Celtic Boii tribe against the Roman Empire, showcasing the band’s lyrical ambition and intricate musicianship.

Following extensive touring, including performances with Dying Fetus, Mortuary Drape, and Venom Inc., Karmian released “Live at Slaughter Club” (2022), a testament to their intensity and authenticity on stage. After the pandemic years, the lineup evolved with the arrival of Luca Marmi (bass) and Michele Perla (guitars), marking the beginning of a darker, more elaborate creative phase.

This evolution culminates in their most ambitious work to date: the 2026 full-length “Horror Vacui”, recorded at Audiocore Studio with Luca Cocconi and Simone Sighinolfi. The album explores the psychological and existential void behind real acts of Italian murder and madness, transforming nine true-crime cases into allegorical portraits of emptiness, collapse, and human frailty. Musically, “Horror Vacui” expands the band’s soundscape through intricate dual-guitar writing, powerful rhythmic structures, and Bertolazzi’s blend of guttural intensity and narrative expressiveness.

Across their discography, Karmian have built a reputation for merging conceptual storytelling with extreme metal intensity. Whether navigating historical epics or psychological abysses, their work is defined by a commitment to exploring the deeper forces that drive human behavior – resistance, decline, obsession, and the void within. “Horror Vacui” stands as the culmination of this journey: a mature, uncompromising statement of artistic vision, philosophy, and melodic death metal identity.

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0 PYTHONIC Unleash Ferocious Single “Liturgy” Ahead of SLAUGHTERFEST 2025 + New EP “Decomposition” Out Dec 2025

  • December 4, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Pythonic

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 4, 2025

PYTHONIC Unleash Ferocious Single “Liturgy” Ahead of SLAUGHTERFEST 2025 in Edmonton

+ New EP “Decomposition” Out Dec 19th, 2025

Pythonic – Back Row – L to R: Max Hiske (Bass) | Morgan Warriner (Lead Vocals) | Vincent Kohut (Rhythm Guitar & Backing Vocals)

Front Row – L to R: Jayden Warriner (Drums) | Ryan Hunter (Lead Guitar )

Photo Credit – Carsen Warriner

Saskatoon, Canada’s death thrash force Pythonic has announced the release of their second single, “Liturgy”, following the success of their first single, “Guiltfeeder”. Both tracks pave the way for the band’s highly anticipated sophomore EP “Decomposition,” set to drop on December 19, 2025.
​
Formed by guitarist Vincent Kohut, Pythonic was born out of a desire to break free from subgenre constraints and deliver metal in its purest, most aggressive form. Alongside lead guitarist Ryan Hunter, bassist Max Hiske, drummer Jayden, and new vocalist Morgan Warriner, the band has forged a sound described as aggressive, groovy, raw, thick, and dirty.
​
​“Liturgy came out so good on the recordings, we couldn’t help but spotlight this track. The riffs rip, the drums rip, the bass rips, what can we say, this song rips. It’s such a classic metal song, with lyrics about summoning a demon under a blood moon. Morgan’s guttural delivery took it to another level,” says the band.

Listen to “Liturgy” via its premiere on Bravewords HERE.

The band’s second EP, “Decomposition”, represents a heavier, more death-metal-oriented chapter for Pythonic. Tracks such as “Conceit”, “Pills”, and “Collateral” showcase themes of corruption, addiction, toxic relationships, and triumph, while “Liturgy” embodies the band’s darker, more extreme influences. The EP artwork, created by Danya Lawton, visually decays the band’s debut imagery to reflect the reimagined nature of the songs.

“When we brought in Morgan as our new singer, the songs came alive again. What once felt tired now feels powerful; his vocals gave them the chance they deserved. Max’s bass adds a soul-shaking thump, especially on Collateral, while Jayden’s heavier drumming drives the tracks with ferocity and double kicks. We also worked with Reid Paraszczynec of Lucid Distortion Audio, a longtime friend of Vincent and Ryan, whose mixing and mastering made the songs sound phenomenal. Reid’s sharp ear and easygoing nature helped usher in the next chapter of Pythonic the right way,” adds the band.
​
Fans can brace themselves for an all-out assault of crushing riffs, pounding bass, unrelenting drums, and guttural vocals, solidifying Pythonic as a powerhouse in Canada’s rising metal scene.

The band is set to storm Slaughterfest in Edmonton, AB, on December 6th, sharing the stage with Display of Decay, Brain Stem, Ages of Ashes, A Modern Prometheus, and Cell – info.

Recommended for fans of Lamb of God, Morbid Angel, Devildriver, and Black Dahlia Murder, “Decomposition” will be available on digital platforms on December 19, 2025.

EP pre-order – https://pythonic.bandcamp.com/album/decomposition​

Track Listing:​
1. Guiltfeeder (4:23)
2. Conceit (4:00)
3. Pills (3:09)
4. Liturgy (3:42)
5. Collateral (3:38)
EP Length: 18:54

EP Recording Credits:​
All songs performed by Pythonic
All songs written by Pythonic with Alex Conley
Produced by Pythonic
Mixed by Reid Paraszczynec / Lucid Distortion Audio
Mastered by Reid Paraszczynec / Lucid Distortion Audio
EP Artwork by Danya Lawton

EP and Live Line-Up​
Morgan Warriner – Lead Vocals
Ryan Hunter – Lead Guitar
Vincent Kohut – Rhythm Guitar and Backing Vocals
Max Hiske – Bass
Jayden Warriner – Drums

More info: https://www.facebook.com/pythonicband | https://instagram.com/pythonicband​

About: Born in Saskatoon, SK, Pythonic is a death‑groove metal powerhouse that fuses the ferocity of Lamb of God, Black Dahlia Murder, and Cryptopsy with its own raw, uncompromising vision. Conceived by guitarist Vincent Kohut as a project free from subgenre boundaries, the band embraces the philosophy that “metal is metal.” Together with lead guitarist Ryan Hunter, Kohut carved out a sound that is aggressive, groovy, thick, and unapologetically dirty, a sonic identity that refuses to be confined. The addition of Morgan Warriner on vocals and Max Hiske on bass has solidified Pythonic’s most devastating lineup to date. Warriner’s guttural range, soaring highs, and earth‑shaking lows have been praised as transformative, while Hiske’s thunderous bass lines add depth and weight to every track. Anchored by Jayden’s relentless drumming, the band operates as a tightly locked unit, delivering a crushing live experience.

-30-

““EP 1” is a testament to Pythonic‘s dedication to their craft and their refusal to be confined by sub-genre limitations. Each song is a blend of technical prowess and raw emotion, offering listeners a chance to experience the full spectrum of the band’s capabilities. It is recommended for fans of Machine Head, Trivium and Pantera.” – Metal-Rules (EP01 – 2024)

“Pythonic comes from Canada with ‘Epica’, a track that features fast-paced guitar riffs, heavy drums and an engaging, torn vocal that delivers to listeners the essence of metal and subverts such as alternative, thrash and even melodic, being perfect to the circle and not to leave anyone standing still.” – Os Garot Os Deliverpool (EP01 – 2024)

“Pythonic has an EP for you. Blending Thrash with Old School Swedish Death Metal, the band manages to sound like Entombed but without losing its unique style… So if you have a few minutes of anger to drain, these guys are going to cover you!” – Metal Eclipse Reviews (EP01 – 2024)

“Overall I’m a pretty big fan of this record. If you want something that sounds maybe like an Anthrax or a Slayer record then you really want to check this out. The most dynamic and unique part of this EP, in particular is the vocals are double-tracked and they’re very high in the mix which is something that is somewhat different than a lot of the other metal releases this year which I greatly appreciate. If you want something that has a lot of the thrash guitar element then you’re really going to want to check this out. The guitar and drum parts are fantastic, they really keep the songs very tight even though the vocals are very in your face and they’re usually the the first thing that you would notice with this kind of record but overall this is very strong.” – Brutally Delicious (EP01 – 2024)

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0 PHAETON Unleash Playthrough Video “Augmented” in Support of New Album Neurogenesis + BC Show Date with ANCIIENTS

  • November 27, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Phaeton

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – November 27, 2025

PHAETON Unleash Playthrough Video “Augmented” in Support of New Album Neurogenesis

+ BC Show Date with ANCIIENTS

ft. Album Guest Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater, Planet X, Sons of Apollo)

Front (L-R): Kevin Thiessen (Guitars, Keyboards), Ferdy Belland (Bass), Daniel Airth (Guitars), Back: Colin Righton (Drums)

Photo Credit – Scott Courtemanche

Instrumental progressive metal quartet Phaeton has released its latest playthrough video, “Augmented,” in support of its brand-new album, “Neurogenesis,” released on October 24, 2025. The release marks another bold step forward for the band, following their acclaimed sophomore album Between Two Worlds (2020).

The new playthrough video spotlights “Augmented,” a track inspired by humanity’s drive to transcend survival through technology, yet haunted by the dystopian possibilities of merging man and machine.

“This song was written to convey the mechanical unease and robotic inhumanity awaiting us in the near future, and how we must be on our guard,” the band explains.

Watch the playthrough via its premiere on Decibel Magazine HERE.

Formed in 2017 in Kimberley, BC, PHAETON blends neo-classical melodicism, crushing riffs, tornado percussion, and contrapuntal basslines. Their lineup includes Kevin Thiessen (guitars, keyboards; ex-Azsension, ex-Datura), Daniel Airth (guitars; ex-Chaos Logic), Ferdy Belland (bass; ex-Bif Naked), and Colin Righton (drums; ex-Chaos Machine).
​
Described in five words as Interplanetary Psychedelic Hyper-Melodic Metallic Prog, PHAETON’s sound is a kaleidoscope of influences ranging from Devin Townsend, Rush, Haken, Intervals, and Scale the Summit to the jazz-fusion pioneers Weather Report and Mahavishnu Orchestra. Their music blends prog-metal, tech-death, thrash, and djent into a visceral yet cerebral listening experience.
​
With “Neurogenesis,” the band sharpened their songwriting into concise, dynamic arrangements without sacrificing imagination. The album’s seven tracks form a connected anthology, while its themes explore the technological singularity and humanity’s uneasy march toward cybernetic augmentation. Engineered and mixed by guitarist Kevin Thiessen at The Cube in Kimberley, BC, and mastered by Jamie Sitar at Outtatown Sound in Winnipeg, MB, the album features artwork by Calgary-based artist Matt Semenok and a guest appearance by prog legend Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater, Planet X, Sons of Apollo) on the track “Isochron”.

“We’ll carry you away to the nebulae and you’ll enjoy every light-minute of it,” adds the band.
​
​PHAETON’s journey began with their self-titled debut, establishing their technical virtuosity and adventurous spirit. Their sophomore offering, “Between Two Worlds”, expanded their sound with heavier, more emotionally impactful compositions. Now, “Neurogenesis” refines their approach with compact, hook-laden tracks that balance clarity with complexity.
​
Fans can expect more ambitious projects following “Neurogenesis” as the band plans to release a 22-minute epic, “Clouds of Mercury”, slated for 2026, and a fourth full-length album, “Quartum”, projected for 2027.

In additional news, the band will be opening for Vancouver prog masters Anciients in Cranbrook, BC, on November 29th, as part of their “Infinite Eclipse Tour”. Phaeton plans to deliver a heavier, crunchier, thrashier experience than their polished recordings suggest, surprising audiences with their dual identity.

“We don’t growl and shriek as if we’re imitating demons from the Ninth Level of Hell. We let the guitars and keyboards do the singing,” the band adds.

Upcoming Show Dates:​
Nov 29 – Cranbrook BC – Shotties Nightclub w/ ANCIIENTS – info​

“Neurogenesis” is available now on digital platforms via INB Music. Vinyl editions arrive later this year.

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/album/46CVWFcd3u2pSRt0D9pSrV​

Bandcamp – https://phaetonband.bandcamp.com/​

Previous Singles:

Band playthrough – Arachnid – https://youtu.be/QxyU0U-vSOc​

Isochron ft. Derek Sherinian – https://youtu.be/Ri8wXGYJcJg​

Tethys Rising – https://youtu.be/mjehuUQS9G8​

Track Listing:​
1. Tethys Rising (6:25)
2. Discontinuum (6:37)
3. Isochron (4:12) ft. Derek Sherinian
4. Synethesia (6:24)
5. Arachnid (4:48)
6. Augmented (4:37)
7. Neurogenesis (6:16)
Album Length: 39:19

Band Lineup:​
– Colin Righton: Drums & Percussion
– Daniel Airth: Lead & Rhythm Guitars
– Kevin Thiessen: Lead & Rhythm Guitars, Keyboards
– Ferdy Belland: Electric Bass

For more info: https://linktr.ee/phaetonofficial​

– 30 –

“”Neurogenesis” one of the hottest tips of the running season. At least when it comes to instrumental prog, the band has reached the top of the annual list!” – PowerMetal.de ​
​
​“Explore the sonic evolution of PHAETON in their album Neurogenesis, blending melody and heavy instrumentation for a unique experience.” – Bass Musician Magazine​
​
​“Neurogenesis is a crushing and cerebral listen from a band that has sharpened its sound to a fine point. Phaeton confidently bridges the gap between melody and pure, unadulterated musicianship. They fuse the ferocious compositions of modern metal with the ambitious spirit of classic prog rock, creating a unique and thrilling sound that stands alone.” – AltYegMusic​
​
​“Oh prog-metal how we love thee…case in point, the new single ‘Isochron ft. Derek Sherinian’ from Phaeton. This dandy little slice of modern prog-metal is not only exceptionally recorded but is jammed full of stabbing riffs, fluid bass lines, drum rolls galore and of course keyboard wizardry courtesy of the legendary Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater, Planet X, Sons of Apollo). Keep an eye out for the new album “Neurogenesis” from PHAETON set to drop on Oct. 24th and to tide you over listen up for ‘Isochron’ on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll​
​
​“I’ve always maintained that instrumental bands have to work harder at their craft, because the lack of vocals is one more thing they have to find a replacement for. Lead guitar breaks can take the place of vocals, as can keyboards. They do a solid job of this on the album… They have the chops, that’s for sure.” – Metal-Temple”Neurogenesis“ is a work that combines virtuosity, atmosphere and emotion in extraordinary balance.” 4/5 – MetalUnderground.at
​
“PHAETON’s Neurogenesis: Where Prog-Meets-Precision, and Machines Whisper to the Riffs” – Papy Jeff Metal
​
“Phaeton’s sound is a kaleidoscope of progressive sounds, tech-death, thrash and djent… The album opens with the song “Tethys Rising” has in it’s a lot of austerity, but you can hear perfectly strong and expressive here sound and style. Song “Discontinuum” also holds the right one level and very exciting. The dynamics and rhythm are impressive here. Piece “Isochron” with the guest participation of Derek Sherinian, he enriches and has in great riffs, but there are also Middle Eastern elements, which it also increases the effect. Number “Synethesia” it emphasizes even more the intensity and complexity of sounds with a lot of power and energy. Track “Arachnid” he has a lot of neoclassical playing, but he doesn’t forget about it crushing playing with lots of thrills. Song “Augmented” it also has a specific level to it. Title piece “Neurogenesis” he crowns the album with pride and precision. You can hear perfectly balanced music here, which has a claw, feistiness and focuses on diversity and versatility. 4/5″ – W-Mgnieniu-Rocka

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0 PYTHONIC Unleashes First Single “Guiltfeeder” From Sophomore EP “Decomposition” Out Dec 2025 + Show Dates w/ INTO ETERNITY and SLAUGHTERFEST 2025

  • November 21, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Pythonic

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – November 21, 2025

PYTHONIC Unleashes First Single “Guiltfeeder” From Sophomore EP “Decomposition” Out Dec 2025

+ Opening For INTO ETERNITY in Saskatoon (Nov 21) and Playing SLAUGHTERFEST 2025 in Edmonton (Dec 6)

Pythonic – Back Row – L to R: Max Hiske (Bass) | Morgan Warriner (Lead Vocals) | Vincent Kohut (Rhythm Guitar & Backing Vocals)

Front Row – L to R: Jayden Warriner (Drums) | Ryan Hunter (Lead Guitar )

Photo Credit – Carsen Warriner

Saskatoon, Canada’s rising metal force, Pythonic, has announced the release of their first single, “Guiltfeeder”, a blistering preview of their highly anticipated sophomore EP, “Decomposition,” set to drop on December 19, 2025.

“The intro riff just makes it the perfect fit for the lead spot. The sick new lyrics tell of backstabbing friends, the emotional toll it causes, and the unmasking of those backstabbers. A story most people can relate to. The ending of the song definitely is the best part, though. You have the grouped up vocals that transition right into Ryan’s solo. That solo is so masterfully clean you’ll want to just keep replaying it. You also have the rhythm behind it all, which just keeps your head bobbing along. Mix it all together and you’ve got a certifiable banger on your hands,” the band adds.

Listen to “Guiltfeeder” at the following links:

YouTube – https://youtu.be/dgyNSQOIcak

​Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/track/513i3UQI2c132OTeAzt5qg​

Pythonic’s forthcoming EP “Decomposition” marks a bold step into heavier, death‑metal territory, pushing the band’s sound to new extremes. The tracks have been “decomposed”, stripped down, sharpened, and rebuilt to spotlight the commanding presence of new vocalist Morgan Warriner and the band’s refined direction. Songs like “Liturgy” showcase their intensified death metal edge, while “Pills” captures Warriner’s versatility as he shifts seamlessly from frantic cadences to bone‑chilling screams. By breathing new life into older material, “Decomposition” revitalizes Pythonic’s catalogue, transforming solid songs into devastating anthems. With Warriner’s guttural power, Max Hiske’s thunderous bass, and Jayden’s relentless drumming, the band reaches its tightest and most ferocious form yet. Mixed and mastered by Reid Paraszczynec of Lucid Distortion Audio, the EP strikes the perfect balance between raw aggression and polished production, delivering a true sonic onslaught.
​
​“These songs needed their fair chance, and Morgan has given them that through his vocal performance. Reid’s mixing brought the next chapter of Pythonic to life the right way,” says guitarist Vincent Kohut.
​
Lyrically, “Decomposition” explores themes of corruption, drug addiction, toxic relationships, and summoning the devil. Written primarily by Warriner, with contributions from former bassist Alex Conley, the lyrics are raw, personal, and vividly dark.

The EP artwork, created by Danya Lawton, continues the visual legacy of Pythonic’s debut release. Lawton “decayed” the original design with authentic mushroom imagery and a haunting central eye, symbolizing the band’s transformation and heavier direction.

The band will also celebrate the EP with two major live appearances: opening for Canadian metal legends Into Eternity on November 21st at Black Cat Tavern in Saskatoon, and storming the stage at Slaughterfest in Edmonton on December 6th at The Starlite Room.
​
​Upcoming Shows:​
Nov 21, 2025 – Saskatoon, SK – Black Cat Tavern (w/ Into Eternity)
Dec 6, 2025 – Edmonton, AB – Starlite Room – Slaughterfest (w/ Display of Decay, Brain Stem, Ages of Ashes, A Modern Prometheus, Cell) – info​

Recommended for fans of Lamb of God, Morbid Angel, Devildriver, and Black Dahlia Murder, “Decomposition” will be available on digital platforms on December 19, 2025.

EP pre-order – https://pythonic.bandcamp.com/album/decomposition​

Track Listing:​
1. Guiltfeeder (4:23)
2. Conceit (4:00)
3. Pills (3:09)
4. Liturgy (3:42)
5. Collateral (3:38)
EP Length: 18:54

EP Recording Credits:​
All songs performed by Pythonic
All songs written by Pythonic with Alex Conley
Produced by Pythonic
Mixed by Reid Paraszczynec / Lucid Distortion Audio
Mastered by Reid Paraszczynec / Lucid Distortion Audio
EP Artwork by Danya Lawton

EP and Live Line-Up​
Morgan Warriner – Lead Vocals
Ryan Hunter – Lead Guitar
Vincent Kohut – Rhythm Guitar and Backing Vocals
Max Hiske – Bass
Jayden Warriner – Drums

More info: https://www.facebook.com/pythonicband | https://instagram.com/pythonicband​

About: Born in Saskatoon, SK, Pythonic is a death‑groove metal powerhouse that fuses the ferocity of Lamb of God, Black Dahlia Murder, and Cryptopsy with its own raw, uncompromising vision. Conceived by guitarist Vincent Kohut as a project free from subgenre boundaries, the band embraces the philosophy that “metal is metal.” Together with lead guitarist Ryan Hunter, Kohut carved out a sound that is aggressive, groovy, thick, and unapologetically dirty, a sonic identity that refuses to be confined. The addition of Morgan Warriner on vocals and Max Hiske on bass has solidified Pythonic’s most devastating lineup to date. Warriner’s guttural range, soaring highs, and earth‑shaking lows has been praised as transformative, while Hiske’s thunderous bass lines add depth and weight to every track. Anchored by Jayden’s relentless drumming, the band operates as a tightly locked unit, delivering a crushing live experience.

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““EP 1” is a testament to Pythonic‘s dedication to their craft and their refusal to be confined by sub-genre limitations. Each song is a blend of technical prowess and raw emotion, offering listeners a chance to experience the full spectrum of the band’s capabilities. It is recommended for fans of Machine Head, Trivium and Pantera.” – Metal-Rules (EP01 – 2024)

“Pythonic comes from Canada with ‘Epica’, a track that features fast-paced guitar riffs, heavy drums and an engaging, torn vocal that delivers to listeners the essence of metal and subverts such as alternative, thrash and even melodic, being perfect to the circle and not to leave anyone standing still.” – Os Garot Os Deliverpool (EP01 – 2024)

“Pythonic has an EP for you. Blending Thrash with Old School Swedish Death Metal, the band manages to sound like Entombed but without losing its unique style… So if you have a few minutes of anger to drain, these guys are going to cover you!” – Metal Eclipse Reviews (EP01 – 2024)

“Overall I’m a pretty big fan of this record. If you want something that sounds maybe like an Anthrax or a Slayer record then you really want to check this out. The most dynamic and unique part of this EP, in particular is the vocals are double-tracked and they’re very high in the mix which is something that is somewhat different than a lot of the other metal releases this year which I greatly appreciate. If you want something that has a lot of the thrash guitar element then you’re really going to want to check this out. The guitar and drum parts are fantastic, they really keep the songs very tight even though the vocals are very in your face and they’re usually the the first thing that you would notice with this kind of record but overall this is very strong.” – Brutally Delicious (EP01 – 2024)

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

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