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Tag: news

0 SVNTH Announces “Cinnamon Moon” From Anticipated Blackgaze Album “Pink Noise Youth” Out April 2025

  • January 31, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · SVNTH

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 31, 2025

SVNTH Announces “Cinnamon Moon” From Anticipated Blackgaze Album “Pink Noise Youth” Out April 2025

L – R – Jacopo Fagiolo – Guitars, Alessandro Canzoneri – Drums, Rodolfo Ciuffo – Bass, Vocals, Sitar, Valerio Primo – Samples, Percussion, Alessandro De Falco – Guitars

Photo Credit – Arianna Savo

Italian experimental metal outfit SVNTH has just released their single “Cinnamon Moon” off their forthcoming album “Pink Noise Youth” out on These Hands Melt Records this coming April 2025. “Cinnamon Moon” showcases SVNTH‘s distinctive approach to genre-blending, weaving together elements of blackgaze and post-hardcore to create a deeply personal sonic landscape. The track stands as an emotional open letter, chronicling the complex journey of late youth through a rich tapestry of sound that includes slowdive-inspired ethereal delays, black metal screams, and the unconventional incorporation of the electric Indian sitar. The band shares their thoughts on the single:

“It unveils some of the most interesting features offered on the album in terms of sound and mood. With its captivating mix of blackgaze and post-hardcore, the song is an open letter soaked in fragility and emotional exposure, delivered to a loved one as a memorial of the hampered paths walked together on the road of late youth.”

While their earlier work explored life’s struggles through a childhood lens, “Pink Noise Youth” examines the chaos and emotional instability of early adulthood, giving voice to a generation as unpredictable as its namesake audio phenomenon.

“Pink Noise Youth” demonstrates SVNTH‘s continued evolution, deliberately transcending genre boundaries by combining elements of hardcore, metal, shoegaze, and post-rock with unexpected instrumental choices. The album promises to take listeners on a cohesive journey through its carefully crafted track sequence, maintaining the band’s tradition of creating conceptually unified works. It is recommended for fans of Deafheaven, Alcest, and Agalloch.

Single Cover – Cinnamon Moon – Artwork by Tryfar

Listen to “Cinnamon Moon” at the following links:

Lyric Video – https://youtu.be/0hpPr0mFxQs​

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3PWfwMK

​

“Pink Noise Youth” is due out on April 18, 2025, on Vinyl, CD, and Digital via These Hands Melt Records and is available for pre-order / pre-save at https://lnk.to/SVNTH​

Album Cover – Pink Noise Youth – Artwork by Tryfar

Track Listing:​
1. Inhale – 1:31
2. Cinnamon Moon – 5:18
3. Perfume – 4:19
4. Elephant – 6:49
5. Narrow, Narrow – 5:35
6. Exhale – 4:33
7. Winter Blues – 4:32
8. Nairobi Lullaby – 4:37
Album Length: 37:18

Album Credits:​
All music and lyrics written by Rodolfo Ciuffo
Performed by Rodolfo Ciuffo, Alessandro De Falco, Valerio Primo and Alessandro Canzoneri
Guitar solos on “Elephant”, “Exhale” and “Nairobi Lullaby” written by Alessandro De Falco
Recorded, mixed and produced by Alessandro De Falco
Mastered by Angel Marcloid at Angel Hair Studio
Photography by Alexandru Cozlan, modeling by alteaaetla_sg
Album Artwork by Tryfar

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

About:

With a various background of musical influences and artistic inspirations, SVNTH (written all caps and pronounced “Seventh”, formerly “Seventh Genocide”) from Rome, Italy has been shaping a unique equilibrium of sounds through the years moving across a huge variety of directions on the palette of contemporary alternative music to create a distinctive soundtrack for inner emotions, life scenarios, and existentialist questioning. Expanding the energy of black and post-metal over the mellow and contemplative boundaries of shoegaze, art pop, and cinematic post-rock.

From the vivid early black gaze melodies of the debut “Breeze of Memories” (2015) to the long song structures with acoustic overtures and Godspeed You! Black Emperor inspired sections of the monumental “Toward Akina” (2017); SVNTH confirms this more complex approach on the double LP “Spring in Blue” (2020), the childhood chapter of a trilogy of colors based on emotions in different phases of life.

The upcoming “Pink Noise Youth” (2025) gets back to a more traditional song format, introducing a unique use of Indian sitar, and an array of acoustic instruments and singing expressions, which develops SVNTH to a one-of-a-kind sound and personality.

As of today, the band has done several tours and single shows all over Europe and in the USA touching even non-frequently toured countries such as Albania and Turkey and performing at notable festivals like Rockstadt and Frantic Fest, bringing a defining cathartic live energy.

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“This is arguably SVNTH’s defining effort to date, and will hopefully see them gain a foothold within the scene at large…” – Distorted Sound Magazine (2020 – Spring in Blue)

“”The music seems to wail and mournfully murmur like spirits who have lost their way in a shimmering desert world. Those lonesome laments unfold into a momentum of neck-snapping beats, raking chords, and high, harrowing shrieks” – No Clean Singing (2020 – Spring in Blue)

“SVNTH sets out in hopes of bridging the rift of a jealous god, welding genres into music that can appeal to all sensibilities, without sacrificing integrity (or intensity)” – Toilet ov Hell (2020 – Spring in Blue)

“”Distortions, speed and sinister atmosphere as the tradition black imposes but also delicate chiselations from which a light filters that suggests possible trajectories capable of questioning the dictatorship of matter, Spring in Blue is an album that is not afraid to face the recognized columns of Ercole gender and to push it far beyond 8.5/10” – Grind On The Road

“an interesting take on black metal, delving deeper into psychedelia and post-rock influences on new EP SVNTH. Though the tremolo-picked guitar playing and blast beats accompanied by howled screams still remain, they are met with shimmering melodies, ambient stretches and Pink Floyd-esque guitars.” – Decibel Magazine (2018 – EP SVNTH)

—
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0 Canada’s SWEETBEAST New Music Video Calls Out All The Superficial “Plastic People” Off Debut Album “Illusions” Out Feb 2025

  • January 31, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · SweetBeast

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 31, 2025

Canada’s SWEETBEAST New Music Video Calls Out All The Superficial “Plastic People”

Debut Album “Illusions” Out Feb 21st, 2025

L-R – Eric Gorzynski – Vocals/Guitar, Alex Graham – Backup Vocals/Bass, Colton Schofield – Drums, John Hermary – Vocals/Guitar

Kelowna, BC, Canada’s SweetBeast has a new music video to share for the track “Plastic People” in the lead-up to their forthcoming debut album “Illusions” out late February 2025. This is the third single the band is revealing off the record to follow songs “Illusion” ft. Space Queen” and “Dream Eater”.

SweetBeast explains “Plastic People”:

“This track critiques the superficiality of modern society, particularly the harmful effects of social media on mental health. With lines like “effects and filters, digital weapons,” the song highlights how the endless stream of digitally altered images fuels feelings of inadequacy, especially in women. This cycle of comparison can lead to doom scrolling, depression, and even suicide, stripping away authenticity and turning people into hollow, “plastic” versions of themselves. By raising awareness of these devastating effects, the song encourages self-reflection and contrasts inner beauty with the hollowness of curated personas.”

Watch and listen to the music video for “Plastic People” at https://youtu.be/by6W1-pNhE8​

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3Q0p0GS​

SweetBeast‘s first full-length “Illusions” is a sonic exploration of shifting realities, blending heavy, distorted riffs with introspective lyrics. It invites listeners to journey inward and outward, reflecting the complex relationship between mind, sound, and reality. The record leans heavily on low-tuned guitars, swirling effects, and a tight rhythm section that creates a dense, atmospheric sound. There’s a hypnotic groove throughout, with moments of psychedelic exploration, where riffs evolve into mind-bending progressions. The songs fluctuate between creative riffs and light, airy melodies that offer a contrast, pushing the boundaries of stoner rock.

“We believe our fans will really connect with our debut album. The mix of heavy, low-tuned guitars and melodic, psychedelic riffs captures the essence of our live performances, which our audience already loves. With this album and its singles, we’re aiming to give fans a fully immersive listening experience. We want them to feel transported by the deep, heavy grooves and layered, psychedelic soundscapes as if they’re on a journey through the mind or some otherworldly place. Each track is designed to pull the listener in with dynamic shifts, powerful riffs, and moments of reflection, creating a balance between intensity and space. We hope the singles offer a taste of this experience, sparking curiosity for the full album, which will be best enjoyed as a cohesive journey from start to finish. We’re excited to see how they embrace it.” adds the band.

Recommended for fans of Queens Of The Stone Age, All Them Witches, Kyuss, and Alice In Chains, SweetBeast‘s album “Illusions” is due out on February 21st, 2025 from Humalien Records, and will be available for pre-order at https://sweetbeastrock.bandcamp.com/​

First Single – “Dream Eater” – https://youtu.be/ErLKQGlu8Qk

Digital – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/sweetbeast/dream-eater​

Second Single – Music Video – Illusion ft. Space Queen – https://youtu.be/ApFf3TDSuf0​

Digital – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/sweetbeast/illusion-feat-space-queen-single​

Track Listing:​
1. 70/30 – 7:57
2. Thunder – 4:01
3. Dream Eater – 5:29
4. Midnight – 4:38
5. Plastic People – 6:41
6. Illusion ft. Space Queen – 11:26
Album Length – 40:12

More info: SweetBeast.ca | Facebook.com/SweetBeastFuzz | Instagram.com/sweetbeastfuzz | Tiktok.com/@sweetbeastfuzz​

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“The record (Illusions) is characterized by heavy grooves, memorable licks, and catchy, heavy, doomy goodness. Any lovers of the groove will definitely be fans of this one.” – Decibel Magazine

“Grungy heavy rock with fuzzy psychedelic twists win the day in ‘Illusions’ (2025), tapping a similar vein to bands like Queens Of The Stone Age, Stone Temple Pilots, All Them Witches, Kyuss, and Alice In Chains. While standing distinctly on their own turf, SweetBeast dishes out addictive grooves and punchy lyrical moments.” – Doomed and Stoned

“How about some brand new heavy-duty stoner rock?! The new single “Dream Eater” from SweetBeast is pretty amazing. “Dream Eater” meanders and bubbles beneath the surface until erupting with a wicked heavy solo and then falls back to its broody state. All in all, it’s a psychedelic journey that you won’t want to miss” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll

“SweetBeast creates tunes akin to an acid trip in the 70s — ideal for headbanging and perfect for getting lost in.” – Kelowna Now

“Making their first appearance on stage in Vancouver after making the trek from Kelowna, something I always appreciate. Shows the band believes they have something more people need to hear and are willing to live the road life to spread their sound. With this confidence comes a great live show, exactly what we got last night. Still grooving in the stoner/psych rock vein, SB leaned into the psychedelic direction a little more. Some great damn rock songs in here lead by a great singer armed with a voice that fit the vibe/sound so well. Fuzz heavy guitars shredding away and more than a few great little solos gave this set its flavor. Got some heavy 70’s era psychedelic vibes with all the wonderful squeals and squeaks coming from them. Just beautiful. Far and away though, the sexiest part of this offering were those drums. With the drummer exuding confidence in their ability, they gave us a great set full of wonderful licks and fills. Always in command on each song they were a blast to watch, full of fun grooves to dance to.” – Elder God Productions (Live Review – RED GATE 22/11/03 – Vancouver)

Video Endorsement from Dave Catching (Queens of the Stone Age / Eagles of Death Metal / Rancho De La Luna recording studio): Dave Catching Intro For SweetBeast at Tune It Down Turn It Up 2020​

“They have beautiful harmonies and great melodies, I can’t wait to get them down here to make the album they deserve to make and unleash it upon the world..” – Dave Catching

—
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0 FROGG To Deliver A Sonic “Eclipse” of Bold, Modern Metal w/ Debut Album Coming March 2025

  • January 30, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · FROGG · Music News

Montreal, QC – January 30, 2025

FROGG To Deliver A Sonic “Eclipse” of Bold, Modern Metal w/ Debut Album Coming March 2025

L-R: Will Brown (Drums) | Sky Moon Clark (Vocals & Guitar) | Brett Fairchild (Guitar) | Ethan Emery (Bass)

Frogg, the technical metal sensation from New York, USA, announces they will unveil their debut album “Eclipse” in March 2025. A long time in waiting, this first full-length features ten tracks of heavy, raw, progressive, and avant-garde thinking metal.

Over the last two years, the band has been unraveling singles such as “Double Vision Roll”, “Dandelion”, and “Wake Up” with music videos, all of which will be showcased on the record that was co-produced by Frogg guitarist/vocalist Sky Moon Clark and Jamie King (Between the Buried and Me, The Contortionist, Scale the Summit).

The singles each exhibited different stylistic strengths, “Wake Up” being more progressive, “Dandelion” and “Double Vision Roll” more in the vein of something between death metal and prog metal. At the end of the day, Frogg is an amalgamation of the music the quartet enjoys, and that’s what the band is and why they sit in between a few key sub-genres.

“A sonic eclipse where every genre collides—progressive, technical, and just enough death to keep your neck sore for weeks.” adds the band’s newest addition bassist Ethan Emery (Survive The Sun & Absurd Condition).

“The people who are already faithful to FROGG will find as much of the stuff that they signed up for as surprises. We don’t operate in one genre all the time,” adds drummer Will Brown.

Lyrically, the record explores Mythology from various places along with tying tales and emotions together. Fans can expect seasonal singles from Frogg going forward as they already have plans for follow-up singles to come real soon after the album’s release.

FROGG’s main ambition is to hit the live circuit with a perfected performance and its brand-new line-up. With performance in mind, FROGG has been relentlessly rehearsing new original material and old, to deliver an authentic live experience.

Committed to technical excellence and progressive innovation, Frogg is recommended for fans of weird and wild, and fans who appreciate bands such as Protest The Hero, Between The Buried And Me, Zenith Passage, Unexpect, and Obscura.

“Eclipse” is due out on March 7, 2025, and is available for pre-order at https://froggofficial.bandcamp.com.

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/4heSdtu

​

Music Videos:

Double Vision Roll – https://youtu.be/BW1WP2vaxnQ

Dandelion – https://youtu.be/r90cV290Usk

​Wake Up – https://youtu.be/RMhtVNE6WYw

​

Album Artwork – Artists: Yann Kempen & Bertrand LeFebvre

Track Listing:​
1. Walpurgisnacht (4:44)
2. Life Zero (4:30)
3. Dandelion (3:50)
4. Eclipse I: Blind Bakunawa (4:20)
5. Eclipse II: Sickened By Silence (4:48)
6. Interspecific Hybrid Species (4:19)
7. Wake Up (6:22)
8. Sun Stealer (4:41)
9. Double Vision Roll (3:29)
10. Omni Trigger (4:07)
​
​Album Recording Credits:​
• All songs performed by: FROGG
• All songs written by: FROGG
• Produced by: Jamie King & Sky Moon Clark
• Mixed by: Jamie King
• Mastered by: Jamie King
• Album Artwork by: Yann Kempen & Bertrand LeFebvre
​
​Album Band Line Up:​
Sky Moon Clark – Vocals, Guitars
Will Brown – Drums, Percussion, World Instruments
Brett Fairchild – Guitars on tracks 1, 5, 6,10
Nick Thorpe – Bass on tracks 1,4,5,7,8,10
David White – Bass on track 2
Brad Williamson – Bass on track 6
Jack Lynch – Bass on track 3
Emma Rae – Clean vocals & keys
​
​Live Band Line Up:​
Sky Moon Clark – Vocals, Guitars
Brett Fairchild – Backup Vocals, Guitars
Ethan Emery – Bass
Will Brown – Drums

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

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“Weirdo avant-garde metal band Frogg have jut shared a video for “Double Vision Roll,” and, boy, is it quirky. If you’re not yet familiar with Frogg, they are all about delivering a weird and wonderful live experience They experiment with different world instruments and songwriting ideas, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in heavy music, and you can see a little bit of that on display here. The song was produced by Frogg guitarist/vocalist Sky Moon Clark and Jamie King (Between the Buried and Me, The Contortionist, Scale the Summit). Frogg are recommended for fans of weird and wild, as well as those who appreciate a little technicality in their music.” – Decibel Magazine

“Frogg cover seemingly contradictory bases of portentous tech-death, galloping melodic thrash and hopeful, opne chord djent. It’s smart musical alignment with their theme of something new rising from the ashes of the old.” – Metal Hammer (2020 – A Reptilian Dystopia – EP)

“FROGG is a dangerous force of Technical Metal making themselves known!” – The Circle Pit

“Technical Death rising star” – GhostCult Mag

“The music is impressively performed and written. Crazy technical menageries of Adderall-fueled obsession meshed with emotive melody just spilling out everywhere. It’s a great time, and definitely worth checking out. Definitely a band to be watching in the future.” – No Clean Singing

“The guitar work is beyond phenomenal, and the vocals are just as catchy. They aren’t 100% death metal but are really a blend of modern tech metal and death metal. I’m extremely excited to see if the band is cooking up any live shows to promote the release and am definitely keeping my eyes on this project from here on out. If you want that Decapitated/Arsis/Obscura blend of groove and technicality Frogg is meant for you.” – Technical Music Review (2020 – A Reptilian Dystopia – EP)

“This is an incredible EP, guys. Every one of these songs has made it into heavy rotation, and I am honestly so excited to hear more in the future.” – Metal Trenches (2020 – A Reptilian Dystopia – EP)

“The quality on show here is amazing for a first release and has left us salivating at the prospect of their debut album [9/10]” – Metal Noise (2020 – A Reptilian Dystopia – EP)

“Bursting into life with a colossus bang, it’s a technical monstrosity that greets listeners with Ancient Storm. It’s wild, it’s nasty but it’s built on a foundation of sharp riffs and ferocious groove.” – Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life (2020 – A Reptilian Dystopia – EP)

“A Reptilian Dystopia” shines with technical sophistication” – Artnoir (2020 – A Reptilian Dystopia – EP)

​
—
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0 Kuwait’s ABZY’s New Video Reflects On Changing “Mistakes” Off Debut Album “Hollow Bloom” Out Now!

  • January 29, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · ABZY · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 29, 2025

Kuwait’s ABZY’s New Video Reflects On Changing “Mistakes” Off Debut Album “Hollow Bloom” Out Now!

Releasing his debut full-length album “Hollow Bloom” this past December, Kuwaiti singer-songwriter and metal enthusiast, ABZY (frontman of WAZIN and former vocalist & guitarist of Srai) is sharing the latest music video for the track “Mistakes”. The song is about about regret, reflection, and the desire for second chances.

“This song reflects on the mistakes we’ve all made in the past, exploring the idea of what it would be like if we had the chance to go back and change them,” adds ABZY.

The music video for “Mistakes” can be seen and heard at https://youtu.be/YGbJva7qA78

Embracing the energy of METAL, Middle Eastern roots, along with a global music palette and his personal experiences, ABZY has fashioned it all in “Hollow Bloom”. A raw, introspective exploration of the human experience, blending metal, rock, and soft tones into a compelling sonic journey. ABZY’s powerful songwriting captures the emotional turmoil of past trauma, the weight of toxic relationships, and the universal search for peace, all wrapped in a perfect balance of aggressive and soothing melodies.

“Hollow Bloom is for anyone who’s felt the pull between light and shadow, the challenge and beauty of change. This project has been deeply personal to me and sharing it with the world has been a longtime dream. Through making music, I discovered the perfect outlet—it feels like the most natural path for me, my true calling, and my sole purpose in life. I believe fans will truly enjoy the album because it offers a diverse blend of vibes, ensuring there’s something for everyone to connect with. I want listeners to connect with the music and enjoy the journey it takes them on. I also hope to show them that, in today’s world, anyone can create meaningful art—even from the comfort of their own bedroom. Grateful for your support, join me on this musical journey, Much love!” adds ABZY.

People can expect an amazing time and incredible energy from upcoming live shows as ABZY plans 2025 to be full of live performances to leave everyone with a smile on their faces and a spark of inspiration in their hearts.

Recommended for fans of Linkin Park, 30 Seconds to Mars, Bad Omens, I Prevail, Silent Planet, Sleep Token, and Spiritbox, ABZY‘s debut album “Hollow Bloom” is available on digital platforms.

​Spotify | Apple Music | Anghami​

Previous Videos:

Mirror ft. Taifi – https://youtu.be/Rpc4x0MeoC0
​
Twisted Mind ft. Dusk – https://youtu.be/fGcPz9OnzQU​
​
Snake ft. Deadleaf – https://youtu.be/rm4C1EeGNkA​

Track Listing:​
1. Mirror ft. Taifi (3:40)
2. Snake ft. Deadleaf (3:00)
3. Gone (4:24)
4. Hurricane (4:10)
5. Karma (3:40)
6. Mistakes (3:34)
7. Twisted Mind ft. Dusk (3:18)
8. Haven (3:50)
9. Influencer ft. Lio (4:15)
10. Broken World ft. Follow the Hunter (6:00)
Album Length: 38:19
​
​Album Credits:​
Album produced/written/mixed/mastered by ABZY
Album artwork by ABZY

More info:​
​https://abzy.komi.io/​
​https://www.instagram.com/iabzyi/​
​https://www.tiktok.com/@iabzyi​
​https://www.twitch.tv/iabzyi​

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“From vibrant grunge flavored conclusions to booming and fairly intense riff and rhythm displays where the otherwise clean, light toned and elegant vocals are replaced with an aggressive, dark toned and distorted growl. This is an album of contrasts and contrasting elements on a few different levels, and I’d guess that the perfect audience for this production would be those who appreciate delicate and radio friendly pop music just as much as they enjoy booming and aggressive heavy and alternative metal.” The Viking in the Wilderness

—
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0 PROG METAL MANIA (Munich, DE) Announces 2025 Lineup w/ SCAR SYMMETRY, DISILLUSION, XAON, OBSIDIOUS, POEM, F.K.Ü. and More!

  • January 28, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Prog Metal Mania - Munich

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 28, 2025

PROG METAL MANIA (Munich, DE) Announces 2025 Lineup

w/ SCAR SYMMETRY, DISILLUSION, XAON, OBSIDIOUS, POEM, F.K.Ü. and More!

Festival Artwork by Ryan T Hancock

Offering an exciting mix of established greats as well as emerging, young bands, Prog Metal Mania Festival is making its event debut on May 2nd and 3rd in Munich, Germany at the world-famous Backstage, featuring the headliners SCAR SYMMETRY, DISILLUSION along with OBSIDIOUS, XAON, POEM, and more.

Official Prog Metal Mania Spotify Playlist – https://spoti.fi/4aqkF9p

​

Shaping up to be a must-attend for Progressive Rock and Metal fans from Germany and beyond, the 2025 inaugural lineup sees 13 bands and one special guest hailing from Sweden, Germany, the UK, France, Greece, Italy, and Lebanon. While each one of them brings something special out of the broad Prog, Metal & Mania spectrum, most haven’t played in the Bavarian capital before or rarely visited Southern Germany until now.

Organizer Katha states: “The idea for Prog Metal Mania came to life through the collaboration of Mostly Metal \m/ & The Progspace and the common wish to bring certain bands on one of Munich’s most prestigious stages for heavy music. Even though it’s a new festival, the response to the first announcements has been overwhelming, grateful for the warm welcome we got within the scene. We’re really happy to have so many fantastic bands on board, and can’t wait to celebrate their music and the festival’s debut with all those Prog Metal Maniacs from near and far!”

Day split tickets and weekend passes are available at the following link HERE.

Friday, May 2nd, 2025 – Doors 13:00, Stage times 13:30 – 23:30​
Disillusion
Obsidious
F.K.Ü.
Vulkan
Loch Vostok
Ihlo
Jester’s Tears
​
​Saturday, May 3rd, 2025 – Doors 12:30, Stage times 13:00 – 23:30​
Scar Symmetry
Poem
Xaon
Turbulence
Aeons
Soulsplitter
John Macaluso

About The Bands – https://progmetalmania.com/en/Bands/​

SCAR SYMMETRY – With legendary guitar wizard Per Nilsson as a driving force, the Swedish band perfectly blends mind-blowing riffs with virtuoso soloing, built up on mighty synth layers, complex yet groovy rhythms, and topped by a vigorous dual vocal attack. Fascinating Metal fans all over the world, they will play their first show in Munich after 12 years!

DISILLUSION – With their special blend of Progressive Death Metal, the German band takes their audience from the top of the world to the end of the sea. By creating dense, multi-layered soundscapes and versatile movements at the forefront of artistic concepts, they already released three rich, fully matured Metal masterpieces.

OBSIDIOUS – Named after black volcanic glass, the group’s moniker exudes something dark, of fiery origin, and metaphorically offers a nearly limitless platform for expression and advancement. Having caught the Extreme Metal scene by storm with their iconic debut in 2022, the international Tech Death powerhouse is set to blow the roof off at Prog Metal Mania 2025!

TURBULENCE – The Lebanese masters of musical story-telling even make a robot dream with their marvelous soundscapes and virtuosic playing, inviting their listeners on captivating, emotional journeys.

JOHN MACALUSO – Born in the US, now living in Italy, the legendary drummer has already played on over 200 albums (ARK, Michael Romeo, Powermad, Yngwie Malmsteen…) and countless tours. He will present a special show for fans of hot rhythms and cool stories with his terrific, versatile playing and some glimpses behind the scenes.

XAON – The French Symphonic Death Metal band spreads its wings on the hunt for nothing less than epicness. By melting the raw energy of Extreme Metal with the finesse and vehemence of a mighty orchestra, their music is absolutely mind-blowing, yet with an amazing sense for details – Brutal and beautiful at the same time.

VULKAN – The Swedish band with the eruptive name offers mesmerizing melodies to immerse yourself in, served on a layer of intriguing rhythms with a true sense for incredibly atmospheric soundscapes.

LOCH VOSTOK – By bringing together raw beauty with complexity and finesse, their music comes along brutal yet with a catchy grooviness, delivering fat choruses, shredalicious solos, and poisonous hooks.

POEM – There’s a certain beauty in melancholy, and the Greek quartet absolutely brings this to the top with its unique, intense compositions. The outstanding voice and expressive performance of singer George Prokopiou make each song a highly emotional experience.

F.K.Ü. – Since there’s a huge overlapping between the Horror and the Metal communities, it seems like a great idea to bring these two beasts together, and F.K.Ü. clearly pull out all the stops on this. Heavily inspired by Freddy Krueger & Co, these four Swedish guys will bring Metal and Mania to Munich.

AEONS – Hailing from the Isle of Man, the Progmetal powerhouse will come to Germany with three albums under their belt, taking their audience from the plains of the American West to ancient Greece, and even to the vast reaches of space with their mighty, musical tales.

SOULSPLITTER – Following their combined musical vision, the German arts collective melts various stylistic splitters into a soulful, new whole. Over the past years, they delved deeper into a specific aspect of their signature sound where heavy guitars and intricate rhythms meet classical piano in a prominent position.

IHLO – The band from Scotland blends modern Progressive Metal with electronic and pop influences to create a sound that is huge musically, emotionally crushing, and full of hooks. Their debut recently got a re-issue via Kscope, and with album No2 showing up on the horizon, they also might bring new music to Munich in May.

JESTER’S TEARS – Even though the name of this Munich-based band might be quickly associated with an album title by Marillion, it is rather the multi-layered symbol for their music, and was actually inspired by Venice and its famous carnival. The five musicians will open Prog Metal Mania with their powerful mix of wonderful playfulness and complex, yet accessible songs.

More info:

​https://progmetalmania.com​

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

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

​https://linktr.ee/progmetalmania​

——

Festival Press Promotional Packet HERE.

About The Venue – Backstage – Reitknechtstraße 6, 80639 München – www.backstage.eu​

Located in the heart of Munich, Backstage is easy to reach by public transport thanks to the S-Bahn station Hirschgarten being pretty close. A chargeable parking space is also available, several hotels are within walking distance.

As all concerts are set on the same stage, there are no overlaps in the playing times so all bands can be experienced. The venue’s beer garden is a great place for lively chats with other music enthusiasts during the breaks while getting drinks and food there.

Festival Links:

Prog Metal Mania will take place on 2 & 3 May 2025 at the Backstage (Werk) in Munich, Germany

Organizer: Mostly Metal Events & PR

For requests please contact info[@]progmetalmania[.]com​

Powered by Mostly-Metal.net & TheProgSpace.com​

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​

0 YESTERDAY’S HERO New Video “What I Needed” Off Debut Album “Ways To Hate” Out Now!

  • January 24, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Yesterday's Hero

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 25, 2025

YESTERDAY’S HERO New Video “What I Needed” Off Debut Album “Ways To Hate” Out Now!

Ohio alternative metal Yesterday’s Hero has a new music video to offer up to fans for their track “What I Needed” featured on their debut album “Ways To Hate”. It is a hooky distorted riffing song, guitarist Tony Smith wrote it with his son playing the drums. A Rise Against-inspired banger. It’s a song that is medication for the wounds that we’ve all been dealt.

“Waking up to the realization that not everything is as it seems and really accepting that. It’s what a lot of us need to move forward in life. Sometimes in the middle of a struggle, you may not realize it’s “What I Needed”. adds Smith.

Watch and listen to “What I Needed” via its premiere on Ghost Cult Magazine HERE.

Yesterday’s Hero is a good time band. They have more fun out at the shows than they probably should. They are no choir boys and they bring that signature sound with their first full-length “Ways To Hate”. It was purposely recorded in analog to give you a real album experience and not just singles spread out. The tracklisting was designed for each song to complement the next from beginning to end along with feeling the music and its emotions of struggling with a bleeding heart at the end of a tumultuous relationship

A fusion of high-energy grooves with timeless melodies to get your blood pumping and moshing in the pit, Yesterday’s Hero is recommended for fans of Chevelle, Rise Against, Killswitch Engage, Godsmack, and Seether.

Released on November 24, 2023, “Ways To Hate” is available on all digital platforms at https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/yesterdayshero/ways-to-hate and https://yesterdayshero.bandcamp.com (CD/digital).

Previous Videos:

Ways To Hate – https://youtu.be/TYftddOAhlA​

Bounce – https://youtu.be/G0P7nnW8wzU​

Track Listing:​
1- Killing Me (3:43)
2- What I Needed (4:06)
3- Ways to Hate (3:38)
4- Bounce (4:12)
5- Be (3:46)
6- Road of Doom (5:26)
7- Life’s So Good (3:46)
Album Length: 28:36

Band Lineup Live and Recording​
Chris Neller – Vocals
Nathan Fike – Lead Guitar
Tony Smith – Guitar
Bill Mizen – Bass
Byron Ferguson – Live Drums and Recorded Drums on track 2. What I Needed, 3. Ways to Hate, 4. Bounce
Jesse Elkins – Recorded Drums on track 1. Killing Me, 5. Be, 6. Road of Doom, and 7. Life’s So Good

More info: Yesterdaysheroband.com | Facebook.com/YesterdaysHeroBand | Instagram.com/hero_yesterdays​

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“This is a great album…. they all sound awesome, being the perfect blend of the early 2000s alt-metal sound and a more modern take, almost bordering on Phil Campbell at times. And, as similar as it all was, I would happily take a lot more of it. Seven tracks just wasn’t enough for me! It sounds great and I think these guys are going to be a big deal soon, if this album is anything to go off!” – Overtone Magazine​
​
​“If you’re a real mensch, then you know when it’s your time to bounce, like the boys in Yesterday’s Hero. The hard rockers are happy to unveil their new music video for “Bounce,” off of their new record, Ways To Hate. The seven-track effort was self-released late last month and checks all the boxes of a no-nonsense, riff-rocking good time. There probably isn’t anywhere more rock n’ roll to record a music video than a car shop, which the band selected as the location of this badass new video clip. The primary riff featured in “Bounce” is one of the first the Ohio quartet conceived for this new record. In a sense, the riff dictated the subject matter of the song, with the band feeling that it really “bounced.” Feeding off of this energy, the song came about rather naturally and cohesively.” – V13​
​
​“”When it comes to big riffs, ‘Bounce’ by Yesterday’s Hero doesn’t sell the listener short. Its main thrust sounds like a stoner rock band channelling an old Fugazi tune; the muted riff on the verse adds a sharp edge beneath a great vocal, and exploding into a huge chorus, the band are able to convey a timeless post-grunge sound that sounds massive beneath an enthusiastic hook. If that wasn’t enough, a slow heavy breakdown drawing from a blend of groove metal and hardcore influences increases the tension at the track’s end, ensuring these four minutes leave most rock fans more than satisfied.” – Real Gone Rocks

“The song (Killing Me) is a straightforward alt-metal rager for fans of the late-90s/early-2000s nu-metal scene. The video follows a series of drawings to create a dark and mysterious noir-type atmosphere. ” – New Noise Magazine

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0 Prog Collective LUNAR Confronts Personal Struggles in “Fall Back Into Old Habits” Lyric Video From New Album “Tempora Mutantur” Out Jan 31st

  • January 23, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Lunar · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 23, 2024

Prog Collective LUNAR Confronts Personal Struggles in “Fall Back Into Old Habits” Lyric Video

ft. members Helion Prime, Beholder, Vis Mystica, Mokili Wa, Nordic Frost, Outloud, Double Vision

Fourth Studio Album “Tempora Mutantur” Out Jan 2025 via Saibot Reigns Records

Making Live Debut at Hyperspace Metal Festival 2025 (Vancouver, BC) – April 11th

Top 1st Row – Ryan Price – Bass, Alex Bosson – Drums
Middle 2nd Row – Connor McCray – Lead Guitar, Chandler Mogel – Clean Vocals
Bottom 3rd Row – Carlos Alvarez – Rhythm Guitar, Brian Lewis – Growl Vocals, Anthony Stahl – Keyboards

Sacramento, USA’s progressive metal visionaries LUNAR shares their new lyric video for “Fall Back Into Old Habits”, delivering a powerful exploration of personal patterns and emotional cycles. As the third preview of their upcoming concept album “Tempora Mutantur”, the track promises to be a visceral examination of human vulnerability, showcasing the band’s unique ability to transform personal struggles into universal musical experiences. Drummer Alex Bosson comments on the single:

“This is, I think, the longest, and maybe the “heaviest” song for Lunar thus far. Mostly features the growl vocals from Brian Lewis (although there is some of Chandler’s beautiful voice on here too). Lots of double basses, and multiple shreddy guitar solos (including one from Wildrun’s Wayne Ingram).”

Lyrically, “Fall Back Into Old Habits” deals with addiction, or anything we do that can give us temporary relief to help us get through rough moments, but ultimately have terrible long-term effects on ourselves. The 11-minute epic represents Lunar‘s commitment to creating music that is therapeutically honest and musically innovative.

“Fall Back Into Old Habits” continues Lunar’s tradition of creating progressive metal that challenges listeners to confront their inner landscapes. It is recommended for fans of Haken, Tool, and Porcupine Tree.

Watch and listen to the video for “Fall Back Into Old Habits” via its premiere on MetalAddicts HERE. ​

Founded by drummer Alex Bosson (Helion Prime, Planeswalker) and Ryan Erwin who passed away in 2018, LUNAR continues in his memory. This fourth full-length “Tempora Mutantur” follows 2023’s “The Illusionist” and features a fresh lineup with the addition of guitarists Carlos Alvarez and Connor McCray (Vis Mystica) along with keyboardist Anthony Stahl plus album guests Wayne Ingram (Wildrun), Joe Gullace (Thank You Scientist) and Sam Vallen (Caligula’s Horse).

A collaboration of musical minds, and with anything LUNAR does; “Tempora Mutantur” is an emotional thematic listening experience with ups and downs musically and lyrically dealing with the passing of time and the effects it has on us physically and mentally.

LUNAR’s “Tempora Mutantur” is due out on January 31, 2025, from Saibot Reigns Records.

Album pre-order – http://lunarbandofficial.bandcamp.com/​

Previous Singles

“Watch The Weather Change” – https://youtu.be/WKdnZD_DJsE​

“Weakening Winter Touch” – https://youtu.be/0in2WNVshGM​

“Spring In My Step – https://youtu.be/mtOhnwOpK_0​

A studio project since first conceived in 2014, LUNAR will make its live debut next year at the 2025 Hyperspace Metal Festival in Vancouver, BC, Canada on April 11th. Info here.

(Album Artwork by Ed Bosson)

Track Listing:​
1. A Summer To Forget – 6:37
2. Fall Back Into Old Habits – 11:16 ft. guest guitar solo by Wayne Ingram (Wilderun)
3. Seasonal Interlude – 4:47
4. Weakening Winter Touch – 8:46
5. Spring In My Step – 7:26
6. Tempora Mutantur: Part I – Passage of Time – 3:12 ft. guest guitar solo by Sam Vallen (Caligula’s Horse)
7. Tempora Mutantur: Part II – Broken Pendulum – 3:47
8. Tempora Mutantur: Part III – Watch The Weather Change – 4:51
Album Length: 50:45

Album Credits:​
Performance and Writing credits – full info HERE.
Produced by: Alex Bosson
Mixed by: Carlos Alvarez
Mastered by: Tony Lindgren

Album Main Lineup:​
Chandler Mogel – Clean Vocals
Brian Lewis – Growl Vocals
Carlos Alvarez – Rhythm Guitar
Connor McCray – Lead Guitar
Ryan Price – Bass
Alex Bosson – Drums
Anthony Stahl – Keyboards

Live Lineup:​
Chandler Mogel – Clean Vocals
Brian Lewis – Growl Vocals
Jordan Price – Guitars
Ryan Price – Bass
Alex Bosson – Drums

For more info: Facebook.com/lunarbandofficial | Instagram.com/lunarbandofficial | X.com/LunarBandOffcl | Spotify​

– 30 –

“It’s really well done technically by a band that clearly cares about their music and can play.” – Rock The Joint Mag (The Illusionist 2023)

“If I had one word to describe this album, it would be this one: whirlwind… “The Illusionist” is an album that is living. From its jazzy highs to its heavy metal lows, this album is constantly on its toes, never repeating itself and never, ever growing complacent. A wonderful whirlwind indeed. 9/10” – Ever Metal

“I feel like Lunar has captured the balance between accessibility and technicality very well. I hear many of the same elements in their sound that, when employed well, make bands like Dream Theater, King Crimson, Voïvod and even Sigh so engaging. I love when an album comes out of nowhere (for me, anyway) and makes this much of an impression.” – The Metal Crypt

“As I said at the start, when I heard this album I was immediately grabbed by it. The story works nicely, it is very character based and features plenty of emotions which as a listener I certainly could relate to. The music is terrific with all the players putting in excellent performances and the instrumentation used in a clever way to match all that is going on with the lead character. There are moments of heavy prog as well as metal, but melody runs through the heart of it. The fact that some of the people in the band have never met or even been in the same room together is remarkable as it sounds like everyone was on the same hymn sheet and it doesn’t sound pieced together. That is a great credit to the writing, arranging as well as all the musicians doing their parts to the benefit of the whole piece. An absolutely delightful as well as enjoyable album.” – CGCM Rock Radio

“The concept is that there are songs that are angry, songs that are confused, songs that are depressing, and everywhere in between. Styles on the album run the gambit from Progressive Metal with melodic vocals, to moments of Jazz, to cookie monster Thrash…. The musicianship is solid on all of the parts, with some excellent performances, notably vocalist Chandler Mogel… it does warrant checking out for Prog-Metal fans that like a mix of growler and melodic vocals.” – Metal Express Radio

“The Illusionist again is at the highest level of the progsphere, Bosson’s continuation of the Lunar name, honouring his co-founder and friend, through the medium of progressive metal, is an advantageous endeavour. 9/10” – Musipedia of Metal
​
​
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0 Exitus Stratagem Records – THIRTEEN GOATS Open Up The Pit For Glacial Mutilation Metal Festival + “Tour of The Black Flame” w/ OPAL IN SKY, NAMELESS KING + New Album “Capricorn Rising” Out Now!

  • January 22, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Thirteen Goats

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 22, 2024

THIRTEEN GOATS Open Up The Pit For Glacial Mutilation Metal Festival

+ Vancouver Island Tour Dates – “Tour of The Black Flame” w/ OPAL IN SKY, NAMELESS KING

New Album “Capricorn Rising” Out Now! via Exitus Strategem Records

“It’s really strong. GREAT musicians, great production, as well as a very progressive aspect without losing the darkness.” – Kelly Schaefer, Atheist

L-R: Thirteen Goats Current Lineup | Rob Fitz-Gerald (Lead & Rhythm Guitars, Backing Vocals) | Graham K. Miles (Lead Vocals, Lead & Rhythm Guitars) | Cody Lewichew (Bass, Gang Vocals) | Leonid Verman (Drums, Gang Vocals) – Photo Credit: Kevyn Lilith Hoskin

Vancouver, Canada’s Thirteen Goats announce they will be performing on this year’s lineup for the Glacial Mutilation Metal Festival being held over three nights in Vancouver, BC from February 20th to 22nd at The Wise Hall. Thirteen Goats will be the festival’s opening band alongside The Hallowed Catharsis (Vancouver, BC), Dawn of Ouroboros (Oakland, CA), Black Pestilence (Calgary, AB), and Rat King (Seattle, WA).

The festival lineup also features Exist (Baltimore, MD), Bonded By Blood (Pomona, CA), Xoth (Seattle, WA), Terrifier (Vancouver, BC), Celestial Wizard (Denver, CO), Nomad (Okanagan, BC), Art of Attrition (Red Deer, AB) and more!

Full details and lineup are available at the following links:

Facebook Event – https://www.facebook.com/events/3676238119297179​

Tickets – https://orangetickets.ca/detalles_evento.php?id_evento=1872​

In additional news, Thirteen Goats will be storming Vancouver Island, BC in March 2025 for the “Tour of The Black Flame” supporting OPAL IN SKY alongside NAMELESS KING (dates listed below). Thirteen Goats is touring in support of their second album—the extreme metal rock opera “Capricorn Rising” unleashed on Exitus Stratagem Records this past July.

Tour of The Black Flame w/ Opal In Sky, Nameless King, Thirteen Goats​
Tickets available at – https://orangetickets.ca/
March 20 – Nanaimo, BC – The Globe
March 21 – Victoria, BC – Phoenix Bar
March 22 – Port Alberni, BC – Rainbow Room
March 23 – Cumberland, BC – Masonic Hall

Thirteen Goats’s “Capricorn Rising,” tells the story of their mascot, Shepherd: a goat-skull-wearing Antichrist who raises an army of animals to liberate the earth from humanity’s constant wars and greed. This high-concept narrative is delivered with Thirteen Goats‘ signature blend of infernal riffs, huge hooks, and uniquely theatrical songwriting.

Each song on the album is part of a broader narrative that explores themes of disillusionment, radicalization, and rebellion as Shepherd and his 12 demon goats wage their crusade. Thirteen Goats delivers a unique blend of death and thrash metal, combined with a storytelling approach that takes listeners on a journey through the darkest aspects of both human and animal nature.

Listeners can expect furious riffage, ambitious song structures, and even occasional female guest vocals (courtesy of guest artist Carly Ellen Jones). What they shouldn’t expect is a record that plays it safe or falls neatly into one specific subgenre. Thirteen Goats is recommended for fans of Lamb of God, Carcass, and Mastodon.

Released on July 12, 2024, “Capricorn Rising” is available from Exitus Stratagem Records at https://www.exsrmusic.com/store/p/pre-sale-thirteen-goats-capricorn-rising​

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/41hkue1

​

Music Videos:

Murder Lives in the Heart – https://youtu.be/hpgqlbehecM

​

Sign of the Goat – https://youtu.be/D_J3sPkBPxU

​

A Wolf in Shepherd’s Clothing – https://youtu.be/6J5wSen7Emc

​

More info: Exsrmusic.com | ThirteenGoats.com​

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“It’s really strong. GREAT musicians, great production, as well as a very progressive aspect without losing the darkness.” – Kelly Shaefer from Atheist

“take a spin around the room with Thirteen Goats’ “high-concept narrative” and take on modern metal stylized by everything from Mastodon and Carcass to Cannibal Corpse and Lamb of God.” – Decibel Magazine

“Tinnitist Album of The Week! Thirteen Goats ‘Capricorn Rising’ – Exitus Stratagem Records – https://tinnitist.com/2024/07/11/albums-of-the-week-thirteen-goats-capricorn-rising/​

“All in all, on “Capricorn Rising” the gentlemen from the West Coast combine the universal power of North American thrash metal into a versatile, interesting and, above all, powerful record.8/10″ – Power-Metal.de

“What makes this turbocharged song (Sign of The Goat) so damned much diabolical fun is the band’s melding of viscerally compulsive grooves, head-spinning instrumental pyrotechnics, and rapid-fire vocal assaults — and doing so in a way that makes the track highly infectious too. The song vividly intersects with the tech-death sphere through flurries of quickly darting, swirling, and swarming riffage, deliriously cavorting arpeggios, and a multitude of percussive fusillades. As displayed in the video, fingers and limbs fly like the wind, and the guttural barks and hair-raising screams in the vocal department rhythmically eject the violent words just as fast and just as furiously. But, as forecast, the song is also a viscerally groovesome beast. It’s almost relentlessly hard-slugging, but what really stands out are brutish, muscle-galvanizing jackhammer-bursts, the first of which comes only 25 seconds into the track. Another one of those episodes sets itself up as the backdrop for crazed guitar soloing that sounds like the ecstasies of fiends. And we did warn you — this thing is also immediately catchy and enduringly addictive. It comes recommended for fans of Bolt Thrower, Archspire, and Lamb of God.” – NoCleanSinging

“To get some idea of Thirteen Goats’ approach to heavy music, consider that the Straight’s own Mike Usinger once asked readers to imagine “Vulgar Display of Power-era Pantera in a cage match with Cannibal Corpse and Ministry.” That’s a great start, but it doesn’t account for tracks like “Beheading Zoo”, which tops neck-snapping thrash with enough throat-shredding black-metal screams to please even the most discerning Mayhem fan. Or “Murder Lives in the Heart”, which throws a soaring refrain of heaven-sent clean vocals (courtesy of Carly Ellen Jones) into the mix… Capricorn Rising is that rarest of things in today’s world: a true album, with a set of songs designed to be listened to in sequence. Those songs tell the tale of Shepherd, a man so distraught over the state of the world—endless wars, environmental devastation, and other human-made disasters—that he sells his soul for the power to communicate with non-human creatures… Capricorn Rising is a saga replete with scorched-earth mayhem and mass slaughter—something you can bang your head to while pondering your own complicity in the global capitalist exploitation of ecosystems and peoples alike. In other words, it’s basically the perfect LP for our profoundly fucked-up epoch.” – Georgia Straight (Vancouver Weekly)

“they turn on the thrusters for “Beheading Zoo” and “Permission To Die,” closer “Animal Kingdom” is a quasi-ballad with a ferocious second half. ” – Heavy Music Headquarters

“their music gets the blood pumping. Sounding something like Archspire mixed with Blackening-era Machine Head, the tracks on Capricorn Rising are direct and violent. ” – Metal Utopia

“I’d say this is melodic death, some brutal death stuff, melodic music, black metal vox, growns and clean vox too.” – 89.9 WORT FM – The Moshpit (Madison, WI)

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0 WACKEN METAL BATTLE USA Announces Battle Rounds & Bands – One Band To Conquer Them All & Play Wacken Open Air

  • January 21, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Wacken Metal Battle USA

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 21, 2025

WACKEN METAL BATTLE USA Announces Battle Rounds & Bands

One Band To Conquer Them All & Play Wacken Open Air​

One Band To Conquer Them All! Wacken Metal Battle USA is proud to announce its 2025 rounds and participating bands (more to be announced) across the country, which will see one unsigned band crowned champion and perform at one of the world’s most prestigious and largest already sold-out metal festivals Wacken Open Air (July 30th – August 2nd) (Attendance of over 80,000 people in Wacken, Germany for over 30 years).

Wacken Battle Trailer Video – https://youtu.be/fjMugRXEc5g​

List of previous WMBU national winners, Cascade Effect (2024 – San Diego), Fadrait (2023 – San Diego) Mythraeum (2022 – San Diego), Monarch (2019 – San Diego), Voices of Ruin (2018 – Anaheim) and Corpse Hoarder (2017 – Philadelphia).

Spotify – 2024 WMBU National Finalists Playlist – https://spoti.fi/4cbAEb8

The 2025 WMBU champion will receive the following:
– A slot at the 2025 Wacken Open Air Festival.
– Full professional backline provided.
– $1,000 USD towards flights to Germany.
– VIP camping at the festival.

2025 USA Wacken Battles – The national final will be held in Clifton, NJ on June 21st at Dingbatz.

Texas Battles:​
Jan 31 – Dallas, TX – Trees w/ IH8, Dead Stereo, Vein, Gravehuffer, Divide, From the Grave
Feb 1 – Dallas, TX – Trees w/ Lyric Noel, Wolvera, The Funeral Procession, Oklahoma Blood, Hand Over Fist
Feb 2 – Austin, TX – Come And Take It Live
Feb 8 – Houston, TX – BFE Rock Club
Feb 22 – San Antonio, TX – Rock Box
Feb 23 – Corpus Christi, TX – House of Rock
March 9 – Austin, TX – Come And Take It Live
​
​California Dates:​
Feb 8 – Oakland, CA – Toot’s Tavern w/ Taunted, Midnight Mass, Dev1ous
Feb 22 – Santa Ana, CA – Stages w/ Mourning High, Kumsumption, Against The Sun, Final Summon, Vendetta XIII, War Goul, Illusions of Grandeur
Feb 28 – Sacramento, CA – On The Y w/ Diamantide, Cross, Jnx, Replication
March 1 – Santa Ana, CA – Stages w/ Sentinel Hill, Stryke, Hazard, Nox Sinister, Andsoul, John Demena
March 7 – Oakland, CA – Toot’s Tavern w/ Creepo, Project Mayhem, Burden of Oath, Modern Monsters, Swept To Sea
March 22 – Sacramento, CA – On The Y w/ Way II Stoned, Rail Rage, Exacto, O’Craven
April 5 – Santa Ana, CA – Stages w/ Deface The Dream, Parabellum, Subtle Tension, Hellheart, Tomb of Minerva
April 5 – Sacramento CA – On The Y
April 12 – Oakland, CA – Toot’s Tavern w/ Thares, Catapult Collision, No Fucking Good, Sonus, Tungsten Reigns
April 18 – San Diego, CA – Brick By Brick w/ Avadan, The Provoked, Sleeping Faceless, Door 13 and more…
April 19 – San Diego, CA – Brick By Brick w/ The Norse, Brutalator, Of Glory and Decay, Fire & Flesh, Gannondorf and more…
May 3 – Oakland, CA – Toot’s Tavern
May 17 – San Diego, CA – Brick By Brick
May 31 – San Diego, CA – Brick By Brick
​
​Maryland Battles:​
Feb 8 – Catonsville, MD – Morsbergers Tavern w/ Omen//Skye, Voids, For Fear Itself, Nights Edge, What Are The Odds?, Delenda
March 1 – Catonsville, MD – Morsbergers Tavern w/ Dying Oath, Bedroom Floor, Traverse The Abyss, Feed Me To The Wolves, Space Lumberjacks and more…
March 22 – Catonsville, ND – Morsbergers Tavern w/ Watersdeep, Gone Cold, Babies For Brunch, Within Me, Desolation, Fupa Goddess

​New Jersey Battles:​
Feb 28 – Clifton, NJ – Dingbatz w/ Prime Prophecy, Gore, Psilo, PERN, Before I Die, Youth Death Club
March 1 – Clifton, NJ – Dingbatz w/ Deadly Ascension, Falsify, Jackpipe, Ultraviolet, FireHaze, The Age of Ore
April 4 – Clifton, NJ – Dingbatz
May 17 – Clifton, NJ – Dingbatz
​June 21 – Clifton, NJ – Dingbatz – National Final​
​
​New York Battles:​
March 6 – Brooklyn, NY – Woodshop Brooklyn
March 7 – Brooklyn, NY – Lucky 13 Saloon
April 12 – Brooklyn, NY – Our Wicked Lady
​
​Florida Battles:​
March 15 – Tampa, FL – The Brass Mug w/ Wirethrone, Varanger, Nocturnal Dawn, Claux, Endurus, Forfeiture
April 19 – Tampa, FL – The Brass Mug w/ Pontifex, Othalan, Nibiru, Piss On Christ, Corrupted Saint, Donefor
May 17 – Tampa, FL – The Brass Mug
​
​Washington Battles:​
March 28 – Seattle, WA – The Funhouse
​
Oregon Battles:
March 29 – Portland, OR – Dante’s
April 19 – Portland, OR – Dante’s

For the last 6 years of battles (2017-2019, 2022, 2023, 2024), Wacken Metal Battle USA has hosted battles across the country to send one independent metal band to perform at the world’s largest metal festival Wacken Open Air in Wacken, Germany. 2019 saw the festival celebrate its 30th anniversary, but due to Covid, the 2020 and 2021 editions were both canceled. As the metal community regains its strength, Wacken Open Air 2025 will be the 34th edition of the festival and will be held from July 30th – August 2nd. The 2025 event is already sold out with a line-up that includes Machine Head, Saltatio Mortis, Papa Roach, Gojira, Apocalyptica, Saxon, Within Temptation, Dimmu Borgir, Ministry, and many more. Details here.

Wacken Metal Battle USA is part of an international competition that sees bands from across the country battle each other for the chance to win their spot among 30 other countries’ champions, and represent the USA in an international battle of the bands at the world’s largest outdoor metal festival: Wacken Open Air. The battles have been hosted at the festival for over a decade and give independent bands the opportunity to showcase their talents to an international audience along with the chance to win multiple prizes.

How it works:​
​Participating cities will host qualifying rounds plus a city final organized by a local city concert promoter where one band will move forward to the American national final (date and city to be determined). The winner of the national final will move on to perform at the Wacken Open Air 2024 and compete against the winners of 30 other countries in a final global battle. All bands will be judged during battle rounds by respected local music industry representatives.

Links:​
​Metal-Battle.com​
​MetalBattleUSA.com​
​
Facebook.com/metalbattleusa​.official​
​Twitter.com/MetalBattleUSA​
​Instagram.com/metalbattleusa.official

​

– 30 –

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0 TUMBLEWEED DEALER Creates A Groovy Soundtrack For Alan Moore’s Retelling of Swamp Thing’s Origin w/ “Ghosts Dressed In The Weeds” Off New Album “Dark Green” Out Feb 2025

  • January 21, 2025
  • by Asher
  • · Music News · Tumbleweed Dealer

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 21, 2025

TUMBLEWEED DEALER Creates A Groovy Soundtrack For Alan Moore’s Retelling of Swamp Thing’s Origin w/ “Ghosts Dressed In The Weeds”

New Album “Dark Green” Out February 2025

L-R – Seb Painchaud – Bass & Guitars, Jean-Baptiste Joubaud – Synths & Programming, Angelo Fata – Drums & Percussions

Photo Credit – PAULINE DELABORDE PHOTOGRAPHIE​

Set to release their fourth studio album “Dark Green” this February 2025, Montreal, Canada’s instrumental progressive psychedelic groove metal triad Tumbleweed Dealer is sharing their second single “Ghosts Dressed In The Weeds”.

Unlike all other tracks on the record, “Ghosts Dressed In The Weeds” is the band’s first foray into music with vocals as they paired up with Ceschi Ramos, whose versatility matches the group’s genre-bending sound.

Composed specifically for Tumbleweed Dealer to collaborate with Ceschi Ramos. The band first gave it a more repetitive pattern so Ramos could do a 16-bar rap. The trio then wrote the melodies with his voice in mind, and they crafted parts to serve as choruses. Ramos listened to the song over and over again as he wrote down his words. It became a symbiotic experience, which made the writing even more special as it stands alone as the only vocal track among an otherwise instrumental album.

Seb Painchaud explains the track further:

“The lyrics for Ghosts Dressed In Weeds were mostly written by Ceschi Ramos. I wrote the hooks first and let him in on my inspiration for this album: Alan Moore’s re-imagining of Swamp Thing’s origin story. The emphasis is on the moment where Swamp Thing gets dissected and has his worst enemy laugh while he explains to him that he is not a man turned into a plant, but rather a plant that absorbed a dead man’s memories through osmosis. That exact moment is the inspiration for the album. I didn’t want Ceschi to write specifically ABOUT the graphic novel though. It was enough for him to capture the essence of having your whole world turned upside down, your whole self-perception changed. When Swampy receives the news, he freaks out, breaks free, runs away, and lies down in a swamp without moving for over a month. We’ve all had moments where we just wanted to lay down in a marsh and die. We have felt like we didn’t know how to make sense of a revelation that shatters our self-image. My exact words to Ceschi were that he needed to capture that “How do I go on from here?” moment we have all had. And I think he did that perfectly.”

Watch and listen to the lyric video for “Ghosts Dressed In The Weeds” via its premiere on New Noise Magazine HERE.

The new album “Dark Green” is Tumbleweed Dealer‘s effort to capture two essential parts in Alan Moore’s retelling of Swamp Thing’s origin. Firstly, the main character’s struggle and loss of identity. Secondly, they wanted to capture the antagonist’s transformation into nature’s anger towards men.

Each song is meant to feel like a complete journey where listeners are transported to a world where blues, psychedelia, and progressive rock intertwine. It’s been a long-awaited record and marks a bold new chapter for them since 2016’s “TDIII – Tokes, Hatred & Caffeine”. It’s a culmination of their growth as musicians and their desire to create something truly unique. Other notable guests on the album are Zach Strouse’s (Rivers Of Nihil, Burial In The Sky) guest saxophone solo and Antoine Baril’s (Augury, Obliveon) vintage keys for the album’s title track.

“I think the evolution between our third album, and this new one, will surprise some people. We didn’t write a follow-up to our last record. Instead, we incubated the band’s sound and sped up its evolution. If we kept on pace to release an album every year like we did at first, this would’ve been the 10th one. But we had kids, and that slowed down the process—so this is an evolutionary leap forward that might be jarring. I think that anyone who enjoyed our previous releases will still find what they liked in our sound while enjoying the new variety we’ve brought to it.” says Painchaud.

Due out on February 7, 2025, “Dark Green” is recommended for fans of Elder, Ohm, Camel, Opeth, and Cynic, and is available for album pre-order at https://tumbleweeddealer420.bandcamp.com/album/dark-green​

First Single / Title Track – Dark Green – https://youtu.be/L73im_7hOWs​

Track Listing:​
1. A Distant Figure In The Fog (2:52)
2. Sparks Adrift In The Louisiana Nightsky (3:39)
3. A Plant That Thinks It’s Human (3:34)
4. Becoming One With The Bayou (3:19)
5. Dragged Across The Wetlands (2:56)
6. Dark Green (4:48)
7. Ghosts Dressed In Weeds (5:31)
8. Moss On The Mind (3:13)
9. Body Of The Bog (6:34)
10. A Soul Made Of Sludge (3:49)

Album Recording Credits:​
• All songs performed by: Tumbleweed Dealer
• All songs written by: Tumbleweed Dealer
• Produced by: Jean-Baptiste Joubaud
• Mixed by: Jean-Baptiste Joubaud
• Mastered by: Harris Newman
• Album Artwork by: Glenn Le Calvez

Album Band Line Up:​
Seb Painchaud – Bass & Guitars
Angelo Fata – Drums & Percussions
Jean-Baptiste Joubaud – Synths & Programming

Guest Musicians:​
Antoine Baril – Mellotron, Hammond Organ & Keyboards on tracks 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 9 & 10
Guillaume Audette – Wurlitzer, Rhodes and Church Organ on tracks 8 & 10
Jocelyn Couture – Trumpet & Flugel Horn on tracks 4, 5, 7 and 9
Loïc Roy-Turgeon – Trombone on tracks 4 and 5
Zach Strouse – Saxophone on track 6
And special guest star Ceschi Ramos as himself on track 7

More info: Facebook.com/TumbleweedDealer | X.com/westernhorror | Instagram.com/tumbleweeddealer

-30-

“The epic song (Dark Green) is a good indication of what the rest of the record holds, which is plenty of blues, psychedelia, and prog rock.” – Decibel Magazine

“Tumbleweed Dealer’s “Dark Green,” the title track from their upcoming album out on February 7th, is a lesson in blending diverse musical influences into a singular, gripping piece. Clocking in at just under five minutes, the song showcases the band’s evolution and fearless creativity by weaving elements of blues, psychedelia, and progressive rock into a dynamic and unpredictable journey. The track builds a narrative through its seamless shifts in tone and texture. From introspective melodies to bursts of raw energy, the track balances complexity with accessibility. Antoine Baril’s vintage keys anchor the composition, giving it a retro flair, while Zach Strouse’s saxophone solo adds an unexpected but welcome layer of richness. Tumbleweed Dealer’s roots in extreme music shine subtly through black metal-inspired melodies and brief flashes of double bass drum that are a nod to their past without overshadowing their current direction. This contrast between intensity and finesse underscores the band’s skill in pushing genre boundaries. “Dark Green” not only introduces the thematic essence of the album but it also captures the spirit of exploration that has defined Tumbleweed Dealer’s evolution.” – Amplify The Noise

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

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