Tag: Porcupine Tree

0 Washington D.C.’s Aaron Holt Shares Lyric Video “Set Free Your Sorrow” Off Forthcoming Album “In The Palace”

January 7, 2021
by Asher
· Aaron Holt · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 7, 2021

For fans of Dream Theater, Tremonti, Rush, Avenged Sevenfold, Porcupine Tree

Washington D.C.’s Aaron Holt Shares Lyric Video “Set Free Your Sorrow” Off Forthcoming Album “In The Palace”

Releasing the first single “Set Free Your Sorrow” this past December from the upcoming 2021 album “In The Palace”, Aaron Holt is sharing with prog fans the lyric video for the track, which can be viewed and heard on YouTube HERE.

“Set Free Your Sorrow” is the first song on the forthcoming album and a fantastic stage set for what is to follow. Like many people going through an incredibly rough time in 2020, this song was written as motivation to “loosen the ties, set free your sorrow”.

The soundtrack to these lyrics portrays the dark and heavyweight that many people carry around on themselves. With so many things going wrong, there has to be some sort of direction we can all look towards to ensure a happy ending. The rest of the album features lyrical ideas around this and follows through letting go of the agony we all have trapped inside. The band really explored creating darker sounds out of their instruments, graduating to more full time 7 string guitar parts, large recording spaces, and soaring vocals mixed nicely on top. Holt comments on the album:

“I think anyone who has heard my work before will be pleasantly surprised at the results we’ve managed to create in the more non-ideal recording locations. I strived to focus more on writing towards a mindset around “no one cares about the snare on a song that no one wants to listen to”. We really just tried to flip the production phase more from sounds and tones to the actual material that’s being performed on the instruments and as a whole in the group. I was constantly chasing that catchy riff, melody, or rhythm.”

Natural, authentic and heavy, “In The Palace” will be the third from Aaron Holt, following “My Burdened Mind” (2018) and “The Unknown” (2017). Aaron Holt is recommended for fans of Dream Theater, Tremonti, and Trivium.

The single “Set Free Your Sorrow” is available on all digital platforms at the following link: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/aaronholt/set-free-your-sorrow

“In The Palace” will be ready for ears in 2021 (release date to be revealed at a later date).

Track Listing:
1. Set Free Your Sorrow
2. Castles In My Skies
3. Once Again
4. Fortress In My Mind
5. Entrapped
6. The Other Side
7. Trapped Inside
8. Eternally

For more info:
Facebook.com/aaronholtmusic
Instagram.com/aaronholtartist
EPK

– 30 –

About:
Aaron Holt’s musical journey started on the George Mason University campus where he was asked to play bass guitar for a local church’s grand opening. It was there that he met drummer and percussionist TJ Maistros who would grow to become a lifelong friend and amazing collaborative partner.

The album My Burdened Mind was a very long and labored writing, recording, and mixing project that ended up taking way longer than originally estimated to create the finished product at 47:36 minutes. The long story short is that the album My Burdened Mind was another grand learning experience for Aaron as a producer especially in terms of recording source material that was worthy of being shared with the world.

After the album’s release, vocalist Eric confirmed he would no longer participate in the project and would not want to participate in any live shows. Short of a bassist and vocalist Aaron and TJ anxiously sat on the release and hoped that anyone would listen. Enter album 3, the endeavor where Aaron is truly making every effort to improve upon everything he didn’t quite get right before.

He signed on the incredible help of local vocalist Sujit Kumar who in his own right stands on pretty high shoulders in the local DC music scene as well as making a name for himself across the globe. Sujit agreed to meet and record a few demo tracks, one older song that Eric originally recorded and another new song that would eventually go on to be the single “Set Free Your Sorrow” for a full-length album.

Fast forward to 2020 and Aaron with the immense help of TJ and Sujit has completed a 3rd album clocking in at 58 minutes with 10 songs. The production is solid, all instruments hold their own, and everyone listening has great smiles on their faces with absolute relief that everything has come together so well and polished compared to older works. The new album “In The Palace” features a lot of emotional baggage associated with past relationships, differences in opinion among close friends, thoughts on dealing with incredibly stressful daily life, and also a bit of fantasy writing as well in the longest prog ballad written by the group to date. You can expect to hear a large mix of guitar-oriented music such as straight-ahead rock, classic metal riffs, and intricate progressive lines that flow through each section seamlessly.

—

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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

0 Arcana Share Making Of Videos For Space Opera “Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms”

December 22, 2020
by Asher
· Arcana · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 22, 2020

For fans Rush, Caligula’s Horse, Leprous, Coheed and Cambria, Porcupine Tree

Arcana Share Making Of Videos For Space Opera “Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms”

Debut EP Out Now!

Rogan McAndrews (Composer, Co-producer, Guitar, Bass, Vocals) | Photo Credit: Rogan McAndrews

This past November, Calgary’s Arcana unveiled their debut space rock opera “Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms”. The EP is a poetic and thought-provoking record that is highly detailed with layers of vocals, orchestral interludes, and a passionate story that weaves a tale of love, tragedy, and perseverance of a character named Damian.

The EP was mainly a two-man project split between founder Rogan McAndrews (guitars, bass, synths, orchestra, and vocals) and friend, drummer, and engineer Deyson Thiara (drums, reamps, mixing, mastering) in their respective home studios along with guest musicians to sing the parts of characters for the story concept.

Rogan McAndrews shares the narrative of the EP:

“This EP is a sort of love story from Damian to his wife Hope and their child Cassidy before tragedy strikes. I try to present what his anxieties and pressures are working far away from his family but also a lingering unstableness from within that is voiced by the character Nightmare that foreshadows the tragedy that is about to befall them. Throughout the “Letters from a Lost Soul” arc, Damian will be expressing all of these emotions through letters to his wife and child, the letters being the songs on each album and the characters writing back and forth.”

The first piece of many to come from Arcana in what is already a vast and colorful universe; today the band is going more in-depth on the release by sharing with fans their latest making-of videos.

The band adds:

“We wanted to open up about what our process was like, both in writing and recording the album, as well as some of our thoughts behind the story and the industry we are diving into. Not a lot of artists show all the tricks and secrets behind the technical work that went into their art. It was always my goal to give an all-access pass to whoever showed interest in Arcana, out of respect to those who enjoy the music and want to know what it is like crafting an album or would like insight into how others shape their sound and thoughts. I know that is something I am consistently intrigued by. To all those whose curiosity has brought them to this series, we hope you enjoy!”

Watch videos at the following links: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpcFzXun2db4OxS57gO8iYgdyHaGutqJP

“Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms” is for fans of Leprous, Coheed and Cambria, and Porcupine Tree and available at Arcanacollective.bandcamp.com, Spotify, Apple Music

Music Video – “Tailwind” – YouTube

Track Listing:
1. Letters From A Lost Soul (0:53)
2. Wings (7:11)
3. Tailwind (3:55)
4. Octosun/Wings (Reprised) (9:54)
EP Length: 21:55

EP Band Line Up:
Rogan McAndrews – Guitar, Bass, Vocals (Damian), Synths.
Anna Draper – Vocals (Hope)
Deyson Thiara – Drums

For more info:
Thearcanacollective.com
Instagram.com/arcanaband_official
Facebook.com/arcanabandofficial
YouTube
EPK

About:

Arcana brings you a myriad of sounds from battering prog rock to delicate pop hooks, delivering you experiences that always inspire. With a narrative spanning across multiple albums, Arcana blends sci-fi, mythology, and a study of human action in the face of adversity.

Born from the mind of Calgary-based musician Rogan McAndrews, Arcana follows the story of a character named Damian as he attempts to mend his life and relationship with his wife Hope and daughter Cassidy in the wake of tragedy.

Beginning with the upcoming debut EP “Letters From A Lost Soul – Act I: The World One Forms”, is a concept record that explores a love story expressed through letters from Damian to his wife and child, but also give a glimpse into his anxieties and nightmares.

Damian and Nightmare are played by Rogan McAndrews.
Hope is played by Anna Draper.
News Anchors Dave and Alice are played by Chelsea Finnigan and Griffin.

“Letters From A Lost Soul – Act I: The World One Forms” is due out November 6th, 2020.

– 30 –

“The four-song collection is a beautiful conglomeration of progressive rock, pop hooks, and operatic vocals and soundscapes.” – V13

“ARCANA brings you a myriad of sounds from battering Prog Rock to delicate Pop hooks, delivering you experiences that always inspire.” – The Metal Temple

“The song’s musical arrangement is a heavy, unique work that boasts influences from the likes of fellow prog rock acts Haken, Rush, and Porcupine Tree.” – Phil’s Picks

“Arcana unveils with this “Letters From A Lost Soul” an interesting first EP showing a real potential” – Music Waves

—

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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

0 Washington D.C.’s Aaron Holt’s New Single “Set Free Your Sorrow” Off Forthcoming Album “In The Palace”, Song Premiere via TheProgSpace

December 15, 2020
by Asher
· Aaron Holt · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – December 15, 2020

For fans of Dream Theater, Tremonti, Rush, Avenged Sevenfold, Porcupine Tree

Washington D.C.’s Aaron Holt’s New Single “Set Free Your Sorrow” Off Forthcoming Album “In The Palace”

Song Premiere via TheProgSpace

“Set Free Your Sorrow” is the first single from the upcoming album by Aaron Holt. It is the first track on the album and a fantastic stage set for what is to follow. Like many people going through an incredibly rough time in 2020 this song was written as motivation to “loosen the ties, set free your sorrow”.

The first single off the record, “Set Free Your Sorrow” can be heard via its premiere on TheProgSpace HERE.

The single will be available on all digital platforms as of December 18th.
Pre-Save at the following link: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/aaronholt/set-free-your-sorrow

“In The Palace” will be ready for ears in 2021 (release date to be revealed at a later date).

Track Listing:
1. Set Free Your Sorrow
2. Castles In My Skies
3. Once Again
4. Fortress In My Mind
5. Entrapped
6. The Other Side
7. Trapped Inside
8. Eternally

For more info:
Facebook.com/aaronholtmusic
Instagram.com/aaronholtartist
EPK

– 30 –

—

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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

0 The Reticent’s New Video “Stage 3 – The Palliative Breath” Continues The Tale of A Man’s Battle With Alzheimer’s Disease From Concept Album “The Oubliette”, Lyric Video Premiere via NewFuryMedia

November 11, 2020
by Asher
· Music News · The Reticent

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – November 11, 2020

For fans of Opeth, Porcupine Tree, Katatonia, The Contortionist, King Crimson

The Reticent’s New Video “Stage 3 – The Palliative Breath”
Continues The Tale of A Man’s Battle With Alzheimer’s Disease From Concept Album “The Oubliette”

Lyric Video Premiere via NewFuryMedia

Out Now! New Album “The Oubliette” via Heaven & Hell Records

North Carolina conceptual metal proggers The Reticent released their latest critically acclaimed concept album entitled “The Oubliette” via Heaven & Hell Records this past September. The full length was produced again by Jamie King (BTBAM, The Contortionist, Scale The Summit), and it tells the tale of man’s battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

The record follows the journey of an old man named Henry, which is based upon a relative of songwriter Chris Hathcock who’s real name was Cyrus. The name Henry was chosen as a somewhat more universal name, but also because Henry was one of the Alzheimer’s patients featured prominently in the documentary “Alive Inside”. The concept of the album is to demonstrate Henry’s descent through the seven stages of Alzheimer’s. He doesn’t know where he is or why he’s there. He doesn’t remember his wife is dead. He doesn’t recognize his son. Step by step the disease takes his memories, his ability to speak, his ability to walk, his ability to breathe.

To lyrically visualize the third stage of Alzheimer’s, The Reticent has put together a new lyric video for “Stage 3 – The Palliative Breath”.

Hathcock adds about the track:

“Henry has brief moments of clarity when he realizes that “holes are deepening in his mind” and he vaguely grasps some of what’s happening to him. More calm and reflective the music echoes the patience that the doctors urge. The beautiful thoughtful acoustic opening gives way to powerful progressive rock, calm folk, and driving metal all to the conclusion that Henry’s best is long behind him.“

The video for “Stage 3 – The Palliative Breath” can be watched and heard via its premiere on NewFuryMedia HERE.

The Reticent‘s new album “The Oubliette” follows the band’s2016 release “On The Eve Of A Goodbye”, which was an autobiographical concept record that chronicled the day before, day of, and the day after the suicide of band founder Chris Hathcock’s childhood friend Eve. Critics and fans of the record alike were moved by the compelling narrative and heartrending performances along with the band’s award-winning live performances that are both an audiovisual and emotional experience that utilizes film, story-telling, and the sheer intensity of the music.

Even though the recording of “The Oubliette” was delayed four times due to a severe injury to Hathcock’s right arm (the deltoid bursa to be exact), he was able to perform all instruments on the full length, he actually began lining up players to fill in for him as doctors told him he may be endangering his arm’s functionality if he didn’t take an extended break from playing. Luckily, rest allowed him to recuperate enough to complete the record. Although, the process was slowed because he was in pain the entire time, every recording session began with him taking at least 800 mg of Ibuprofen to make it through.

Chris Hathcock comments on “The Oubliette”:

“As with my previous album, I hope that ‘The Oubliette’ will provide listeners with a rich and emotionally challenging audio experience. This is undoubtedly the most ambitious record The Reticent has attempted to date. The hope is that listeners will be personally affected by the music on a deep level and that it may draw some attention to a disease that is frighteningly prominent but frequently poorly understood. There will be moments that are soothing and there will be moments that are overwhelming. The story I have to tell is not a happy one but it is an important one – and it is often through the pain that we find the most profound reflection and calls to action.”

“The Oubliette” (Heaven & Hell Records) is available on Heavenandhellrecords.com (CD), Bandcamp, Spotify, Apple Music.

Music Video – Stage 2: The Captive – YouTube

Track Listing:
1. Stage 1 – His Name Is Henry (9:46)
2. Stage 2 – The Captive (6:00)
3. Stage 3 – The Palliative Breath (7:13)
4. Stage 4 – The Dream (11:47)
5. Stage 5 – The Nightmare (12:14)
6. Stage 6 – The Oubliette (10:38)
7. Stage 7 – ________ (6:10)
Album Length: 1:03:50

Album Band Line Up:
Chris Hathcock – Guitars, Bass, Keyboards, Drums, Vocals, Additional Percussion
James Nelson – Lead Guitars

Live Band Line Up:
Chris Hathcock – Vocals, Guitar
James Nelson – Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals
Cliff Stankiewicz – Bass
Mitch Moore – Drums

For more info:
HeavenandHellRecords.com
TheReticent.net
EPK

– 30 –

“Each time I have listened to this, my rating of it has gone up until it could not go any higher. This album will hit the spot musically, tug at the heart strings and chill you to the bone. 5/5 – The ProgSpace

“Once again The Reticent enlist the aid of Jamie King for production, giving The Oubliette the same quality in sound and balance as its predecessor. The instruments sound fantastic, and Hathcock’s singing is stellar. His blend of clean (often yearning) vocals and harsh moments used to demonstrate the confusion and fury of Henry is perfectly arranged… I can safely say my expectations have been met, and at times exceeded, by The Oubliette. Hathcock has taken yet another personal subject and transformed it into a taut, compelling progressive metal opus” – Angry Metal Guy

“it’s clear that this is a very personal story from Chris Hathcock. He poured his heart and soul into the concept, and the way the tracks flowed, the story is very real and vivid. Alzheimer’s is a terrible disease, because it mostly affects the patient’s loved ones more than the patient himself. It’s a long process of slowly letting go, until the disease claims another victim. This process is carefully matriculated through music here, and it’s something all fans of music will want to experience. Especially considering the number of us who have been affected in one way or another by this ravaging disease. 9/10” – Metal Temple

“Prog’s most emotionally gutwrenching one-man band returns with plenty more feels… The Oubliette is the next album released under The Reticent‘s name, and tells the story of the protagonist Henry’s decline as a result of Alzheimer’s disease, heavy subject matter again inspired by life experience of Hathcock. The Reticent‘s track record for dealing with such serious subject matter was promising, and with The Oubliette they deliver on said promise.” – Metal Storm

“The Reticent have delivered a narrative masterpiece… I give 10 out of 10 bangs” – Rock Magazine.net

—

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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

0 Calgary’s ARCANA Premiere Full Stream of Debut Space Rock Opera “Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms” via V13, EP due out Friday, Nov 6th

November 4, 2020
by Asher
· Arcana · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – November 4, 2020

For fans Rush, Caligula’s Horse, Leprous, Coheed and Cambria, Porcupine Tree

The Beginning Of Arcana’s Space Opera “Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms” Is Streaming Now

Stream Premiere via V13.net

Debut EP Out November 6th

Rogan McAndrews (Composer, Co-producer, Guitar, Bass, Vocals) | Photo Credit: Rogan McAndrews

Highly detailed with layers of vocal, orchestral interludes and a passionate story can all be found in the debut EP from Canada’s Arcana. This is the first piece of many in what is already a vast and colorful universe that the band has created.

Aiming to have listeners embrace music that is never stagnant and come away inspired, Arcana has weaved a tale of love, tragedy, and perseverance in the story of Damien. The band shares the details on the premise of the first act.

Arcana is mainly a two-man project split between the founder Rogan McAndrews and friend, drummer, and engineer Deyson Thiara in their respective home studios. Rogan records and programs all the guitars, bass, synths, orchestra, and vocals while Deyson records drums, reamps, and mixes and masters the tracks. Other musicians were recruited to play the parts of the characters who sing their way through the events that unfold.

Technical and cinematic, “Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms” is poetic and thought-provoking and the perfect compliment to collections of prog fans, especially ones who enjoy Leprous, Coheed and Cambria, and Porcupine Tree.

Before it officially releases on Friday, November 6th, “Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms” is streaming in full via its premiere on V13.net HERE.

The EP will be available at Arcanacollective.bandcamp.com, Spotify, Apple Music

Music Video – “Tailwind” – YouTube

Track Listing:
1. Letters From A Lost Soul (0:53)
2. Wings (7:11)
3. Tailwind (3:55)
4. Octosun/Wings (Reprised) (9:54)
EP Length: 21:55

EP Band Line Up:
Rogan McAndrews – Guitar, Bass, Vocals (Damian), Synths.
Anna Draper – Vocals (Hope)
Deyson Thiara – Drums

For more info:
Thearcanacollective.com
Instagram.com/arcanaband_official
Facebook.com/arcanabandofficial
YouTube
EPK

About:

Damian and Nightmare are played by Rogan McAndrews.
Hope is played by Anna Draper.
News Anchors Dave and Alice are played by Chelsea Finnigan and Griffin.

“Letters From A Lost Soul – Act I: The World One Forms” is due out November 6th, 2020.

– 30 –

—

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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

0 SonicPerspectives VIDEO PREMIERE: ARCANA Reveals Another Single “Tailwind” From Space Rock Opera “Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms”

October 22, 2020
by Asher
· Arcana · Music News

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 22, 2020

For fans Rush, Caligula’s Horse, Leprous, Coheed and Cambria, Porcupine Tree

Arcana Reveals Another Single “Tailwind” From Space Rock Opera “Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms”

Premiere Music Video “Tailwind” via SonicPerspectives

Debut EP Out November 6th

Rogan McAndrews (Composer, Co-producer, Guitar, Bass, Vocals) | Photo Credit: Rogan McAndrews

Calgary, Canada’s Arcana are releasing their debut EP this year, the fantastic space rock opera “Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms”. They are releasing a second single and first music video “Tailwind” from this debut, which takes progressive metal and rich storytelling to a new level.

“Tailwind” is the love song on the EP that features the heartfelt exchange between protagonist Damian and his wife Hope who long to see each other again and conveys a true sense of always being there for each other but constantly out of reach. Hope is like the sun to Damian; his guiding light to find his way home.

With lyrics that truly focus on storytelling, they take a look at the effects of tragedy and what drives human action and emotion. There is a lot of inspiration for the story from sci-fi concepts and mythology. As explained by the band in their own words:

“Tailwind is a very stripped-down track. I wanted it to feel like your standard 4 or 5 piece rock band (singer, guitarist, bassist, drums, keys) in contrast to the other tracks on this album which can get up into the 20 individual instrument range. I have been trying to write one more contemporary/pop-like track per album and I believe this encompasses that wish extremely well. It’s upbeat, quick, and it feels like you can dance to it. It is still rhythmically technical but it hides it in the 4/4 time and the drive that pushes the sound forward throughout.”

Arcana springs forth from the mind of Rogan McAndrews who developed the concept for the band and the story it was made to tell. He gathered a number of highly trained musicians from different backgrounds from jazz and rock to contemporary and classical and several vocalists to play the parts of the characters.

Recommended for fans of Caligula’s Horse, Leprous, and Coheed and Cambria, “Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms” is a thoughtful and ambitious prog metal journey.

The music video for “Tailwind” can be seen and heard via its premiere on SonicPerspectives HERE.

Spotify

The first chapter in the saga “Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms” comes out on November 6, 2020. EP pre-order will be available at Arcanacollective.bandcamp.com.

First single:
“Wings” – YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music

Track Listing:
1. Letters From A Lost Soul (0:53)
2. Wings (7:11)
3. Tailwind (3:55)
4. Octosun/Wings (Reprised) (9:54)
EP Length: 21:55

EP Credits:
• All songs performed by: Rogan McAndrews (guitar, bass, vocals), Deyson Thiara (drums), & Anna Draper (vocals)
• All songs written by: Rogan McAndrews
• Produced by: Rogan McAndrews & Deyson Thiara
• Mixed by: Deyson Thiara
• Mastered by: Deyson Thiara
• Album Artwork by: Kate Depatie, Rogan McAndrews
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)

EP Band Line Up:
Rogan McAndrews – Guitar, Bass, Vocals (Damian), Synths.
Anna Draper – Vocals (Hope)
Deyson Thiara – Drums

For more info:
Thearcanacollective.com
Instagram.com/arcanaband_official
Facebook.com/arcanabandofficial
YouTube
EPK

About:

Damian and Nightmare are played by Rogan McAndrews.
Hope is played by Anna Draper.
News Anchors Dave and Alice are played by Chelsea Finnigan and Griffin.

“Letters From A Lost Soul – Act I: The World One Forms” is due out November 6th, 2020.

– 30 –

—

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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

0 Arcana’s Progressive Space Rock Opera Begins With “Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms”; Premiere Single “Wings” via TheProgSpace ; Debut EP Out November 6th

October 7, 2020
by Asher
· Arcana · Music News

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 7, 2020

For fans Rush, Caligula’s Horse, Leprous, Coheed and Cambria, Porcupine Tree

Arcana’s Progressive Space Rock Opera Begins With “Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms”

Premiere Single “Wings” via TheProgSpace

Debut EP Out November 6th

Rogan McAndrews (Composer, Co-producer, Guitar, Bass, Vocals) | Photo Credit: Rogan McAndrews

Canada’s Arcana begin their cinematic and poetic saga with “Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms”, which will prove to be a real treat for progressive metal fans across the globe.

The space rock-opera concept is full of layered voices and lyrics, which paint a grandiose portrait of thoughtful concepts and grand tales. The debut EP is just the tip of the iceberg with several more releases planned to tell various stories across a widespread universe. This EP is a sort of love story from the protagonist Damian to his wife Hope and their child Cassidy before tragedy strikes.

The complexity runs deep with the addition of orchestral elements perhaps invoking the listeners’ own struggles when analyzing the characters and lyrics and finding a way to work past them. Throughout the “Letters From A Lost Soul | Act I: The World One Forms” arc, Damian will be expressing all of these emotions through letters to his wife and child, the letters being the songs on each release and the characters writing back and forth. The band cites the theme behind the technicality focused for their first single “Wings”:

“’Wings’ is the instrumental track on the EP and acts as a kind of overture to the whole project, displaying a variety of sounds that will be used and called back upon throughout the EP and future releases. It ranges from hope to despair, longing to contentment, and shows where the project is capable of going.”

Fans of polyrhythms and progressive metal, especially those who enjoy Rush, Caligula’s Horse, and Leprous should take interest in the first foray into this wondrous adventure that starts with “Wings”, which can be heard via its premiere on TheProgspace HERE.

The entire EP releases on November 6, 2020. EP pre-order will be available at Arcanacollective.bandcamp.com.

Track Listing:
1. Letters From A Lost Soul (0:53)
2. Wings (7:11)
3. Tailwind (3:55)
4. Octosun/Wings (Reprised) (9:54)
EP Length: 21:55

EP Band Line Up:
Rogan McAndrews – Guitar, Bass, Vocals (Damian), Synths.
Anna Draper – Vocals (Hope)
Deyson Thiara – Drums

For more info:
Thearcanacollective.com
Instagram.com/arcanaband_official
Facebook.com/arcanabandofficial
YouTube
EPK

About:

Damian and Nightmare are played by Rogan McAndrews.
Hope is played by Anna Draper.
News Anchors Dave and Alice are played by Chelsea Finnigan and Griffin.

“Letters From A Lost Soul – Act I: The World One Forms” is due out November 6th, 2020.

– 30 –

—

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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

0 The Reticent Streaming Concept Album “The Oubliette”; A Tale of Man’s Battle With Alzheimer’s Disease; Album Stream Premiere via TheProgSpace

September 23, 2020
by Asher
· Music News · The Reticent

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – September 23, 2020

For fans of Opeth, Porcupine Tree, Katatonia, The Contortionist, King Crimson

The Reticent Streaming Concept Album “The Oubliette”; A Tale of Man’s Battle With Alzheimer’s Disease

Album Stream Premiere via TheProgSpace

New Album “The Oubliette” Out September 25th via Heaven & Hell Records

North Carolina conceptual metal proggers The Reticent will be releasing their new album entitled “The Oubliette” via Heaven & Hell Records on September 25th. Produced again by Jamie King (BTBAM, The Contortionist, Scale The Summit), the album tells a tale of man’s battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Before it officially drops, the band wants to share this story with the full length’s stream premiere on TheProgSpace HERE.

“The Oubliette” follows the band’s critically acclaimed 2016 release “On The Eve Of A Goodbye”, which was an autobiographical concept record that chronicled the day before, day of, and the day after the suicide of band founder Chris Hathcock’s childhood friend Eve. Critics and fans of the record alike were moved by the compelling narrative and heartrending performances along with the band’s award-winning live performances that are both an audiovisual and emotional experience that utilizes film, story-telling, and the sheer intensity of the music.

Even though the recording of “The Oubliette” was delayed four times due to a severe injury to Hathcock’s right arm (the deltoid bursa to be exact), he was able to perform all instruments on the full length, he actually began lining up players to fill in for him as doctors told him he may be endangering his arm’s functionality if he didn’t take an extended break from playing. Luckily, rest allowed him to recuperate enough to complete the record. Although, the process was slowed because he was in pain the entire time. Every recording session began with him taking at least 800 mg of Ibuprofen to make it through.

Finally completing “The Oubliette”, The Reticent shares another stirring autobiographical tale, this time about the tragedy of Alzheimer’s disease. The album follows the journey of an old man named Henry, which is based upon a relative of songwriter Chris Hathcock who’s real name was Cyrus. The name Henry was chosen as a somewhat more universal name, but also because Henry was one of the Alzheimer’s patients featured prominently in the documentary “Alive Inside”. The concept of the album is to demonstrate Henry’s descent through the seven stages of Alzheimer’s. He doesn’t know where he is or why he’s there. He doesn’t remember his wife is dead. He doesn’t recognize his son. Step by step the disease takes his memories, his ability to speak, his ability to walk, his ability to breathe. The music of “The Oubliette” traverses styles as divergent as jazz and black metal all within the framework of emotionally driven progressive metal. With each track sonically independent from its predecessor, the album moves the listener from experience to experience, vague memories to dreams and nightmares all toward its heartbreaking finale. Fans and critics alike will be very eager to sink their teeth into another intense emotional outpouring of progressive metal.

Chris Hathcock adds:

“The Oubliette” is due out via Heaven & Hell Records on September 25, 2020.

Album Pre-Order HERE.

Music Video – Stage 2: The Captive – YouTube

Album Band Line Up:
Chris Hathcock – Guitars, Bass, Keyboards, Drums, Vocals, Additional Percussion
James Nelson – Lead Guitars

Live Band Line Up:
Chris Hathcock – Vocals, Guitar
James Nelson – Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals
Cliff Stankiewicz – Bass
Mitch Moore – Drums

For more info:
HeavenandHellRecords.com
TheReticent.net
EPK

– 30 –

“The Reticent have delivered a narrative masterpiece… I give 10 out of 10 bangs” – Rock Magazine.net

“In a way, Chris pulled off the perfect fusion of PINK FLOYD’s The Wall and Operation Mindcrime by QUEENSRYCHE, all treated with the sensitivity of a modern Crossover between OPETH and EDGE OF SANITY. We obviously recognize the paw of Neal Morse and Steven Wilson in the most complex and melodic parts, but this fourth LP of the master arises in synthesis of the modern progressive.” – Metalnews.fr

“The Oubliette – being a true concept album – follows the 7 stages of Alzheimer’s. And – by that same token – tries to portray the emotions of the afflicted. In a way, this record is like one of those deep, dark, gleamy chocolate cakes. The ones that look at you with ominous malevolence, just before the evil clown jumps out. This thing is so full of psychological horrors and innuendo that – after a few listens – you start getting the jitters. Not because of the clown, of course, but because all of that has the ring of truth to it. And worse, the disease could hit you, too. Because there’s no defense.” – Rock Music Raider

—

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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

0 The Reticent’s Next Concept Album “The Oubliette” Is A Tale of Man’s Battle With Alzheimer’s Disease; Music Video Premiere “The Captive” via MetalInjection; New Album “The Oubliette” Out September 25th via Heaven & Hell Records

August 27, 2020
by Asher
· Music News · The Reticent

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 27, 2020

For fans of Opeth, Porcupine Tree, Katatonia, The Contortionist, King Crimson

The Reticent’s Next Concept Album “The Oubliette” Is A Tale of Man’s Battle With Alzheimer’s Disease

Music Video Premiere “The Captive” via MetalInjection

New Album “The Oubliette” Out September 25th via Heaven & Hell Records

NC’s The Reticent return in 2020 with a new album entitled “The Oubliette” set for release on Heaven & Hell Records on September 18th. The full length is produced again by Jamie King (BTBAM, The Contortionist, Scale The Summit) to follow the band’s critically acclaimed 2016 release “On The Eve Of A Goodbye”, which was an autobiographical concept record that chronicled the day before, day of, and the day after the suicide of band founder Chris Hathcock’s childhood friend Eve. Critics and fans of the record alike were moved by the compelling narrative and heartrending performances along with the band’s award-winning live performances that are both an audiovisual and emotional experience that utilizes film, story-telling, and the sheer intensity of the music.

Even though the recording of “The Oubliette” was delayed four times due to a severe injury to Hathcock’s right arm (the deltoid bursa to be exact), he was able to perform all instruments on the full length, he actually began lining up players to fill in for him as doctors told him he may be endangering his arm’s functionality if he didn’t take an extended break from playing. Luckily, rest allowed him to recuperate enough to complete the record. Although, the process was slowed because he was in pain the entire time. Every recording session began with him taking at least 800 mg of Ibuprofen to make it through.

Chris Hathcock adds:

Today, the band shares the first tale and the second track on the emotionally gripping release “The Captive”.

Hathcock explains:

“The song starts with Henry hearing the orderly instructs him to return to his room as marching drums cadence him to get moving Now convinced that he is being wrongly imprisoned and believing his wife is being kept from him, Henry begins to oscillate between anger and despair made all the worse by the fact that he still doesn’t understand what’s happening to him. Decidedly aggressive death metal spearheads the track before Henry’s anger falls into a defeated frustration represented by the pensive midsection.”

Watch and listen to the video for “The Captive” via its premiere on MetalInjection HERE.

“The Oubliette” is due out via Heaven & Hell Records on September 25, 2020.

Album Pre-Order HERE.

Album Band Line Up:
Chris Hathcock – Guitars, Bass, Keyboards, Drums, Vocals, Additional Percussion
James Nelson – Lead Guitars

Live Band Line Up:
Chris Hathcock – Vocals, Guitar
James Nelson – Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals
Cliff Stankiewicz – Bass
Mitch Moore – Drums

For more info:
HeavenandHellRecords.com
TheReticent.net
EPK

– 30 –

“First-rate Progressive Metal, technically high-standing and delivered with a very high level of genuine emotion and passion.” – Rock Music Raider, review of “On the Eve of a Goodbye”

“…The fact is On the Eve of a Goodbye is one of the best concept albums of recent memory” – Angry Metal Guy, review of “On the Eve of a Goodbye”

“This record is why I listen to music.” – The Gauntlet, review of “On the Eve of a Goodbye”

“The Reticent is progressive in the truest sense of the term, and remains one of the best-kept secrets in metal…Once again, The Reticent delivers a stirring and unforgettable album that will absolutely appeal to fans of Opeth (especially Damnation and Heritage-era Opeth), Porcupine Tree, Tool, A Perfect Circle, Katatonia and Anathema.” – Hard Rock Haven, review of “Le Temps Detruit Tout”

“The Reticent’s On the Eve of a Goodbye took me by surprise and proceeded to floor me in all its heartbreaking, sophisticated glory” – Teeth of the Divine, review of “On the Eve of a Goodbye”

“I can safely say that this album stands with any classic concept album that people will try and compare it with” – Power of Metal, review of “On the Eve of a Goodbye”

—

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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

0 Cinematic Prog Alizarin Streaming New Album “The Last Semblance” via SonicPerspectives

July 8, 2020
by Asher
· Alizarin · Music News

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – July 8, 2020

Interview Request at asher[@]ashermediarelations[.]comFor fans of Opeth, Haken, Porcupine Tree, Alice in Chains, Nevermore

Cinematic Prog Alizarin Streaming New Album “The Last Semblance”

Album Stream Premiere via SonicPerspectives

New Album “The Last Semblance” Out July 10, 2020

L-R: Jon Damon (Drums) | Josh Kay (Guitars & Vocals) | Avelino Ramirez (Keyboards) | Terran Fernandez (Bass & Backing Vocals)

Photographer credits: Rob Aft & Christian Robles

On Friday, July 10th, cinematic rock metallers Alizarin will be releasing their sophomore album “The Last Semblance”. Unlike their strictly instrumental debut record “Cast Zenith” (2018), this next release features prominent vocals throughout from guitarist Josh Kay. Rich harmonies and baritone resonance from Kay’s voice add a new dimension to the music, allowing the band’s sound to expand to truly uncharted territory.

The album covers a wide spectrum of sonic landscapes and emphasizes the melodic journey over deliberate technique. Although vocalist and guitarist Joshua Kay is the chief songwriter of Alizarin, the compositions on the new record focus on a balance from each instrument, with less of an emphasis on the domination of guitar solos and a greater exploration of what each musician is capable of. Drawing influence from such groups as Porcupine Tree, Haken, Alice in Chains, Opeth, Portishead, and many more, the result of Alizarin‘s sound is one that is challenging to define, pensive, and often at the crossroads of melody and dissonance.

Today, before the album’s official release, the band has teamed up with SonicPerspectives for the full stream premiere of “The Last Semblance” HERE.

Kay adds:

“We are extremely excited and proud to present our new album ‘The Last Semblance’, a record that defies the expectations of modern progressive music and offers something for every listener. This music takes our brand of cinematic metal we began on our debut record and expands upon it in every single way. Rich and dramatic compositions, unorthodox chord progressions, lush vocals and harmonies, and compelling melodies abound on our new album. We wanted to stand out from our peers and offer something that will be immediately memorable and captivating, yet will continue to reveal new layers of depth upon every listen.”

“The Last Semblance” will be available on Bandcamp (CD and Digital), Spotify, and Apple Music.

Born out of the forward-thinking inclinations of guitarist/vocalist Josh Kay in late 2017, Alizarin is on a mission to explore unconventional rock music. In addition to Kay, the Los Angeles based group consists of Jon Damon on drums, Terran Fernandez on bass guitar and Avelino Ramirez on keyboard.

Track Listing:
1. Elegy Simulacra (7:55)
2. Fathom (6:53)
3. A Wreath of Temperance (6:40)
4. Velvet Margin (5:12)
5. Heirloom (5:35)
6. Zero Sum (7:03)
7. Attenuation (10:36)
8. The Ivory Silo (8:48)
Album Length: 58:46

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by: Alizarin
• All songs written by: Josh Kay
• Produced by: Josh Kay and Alizarin
• Mixed by: Josh Kay
• Mastered by: Jamie King
• Album Artwork by: Josh Kay

Album and Live Band Line Up:
Josh Kay – Guitars and vocals
Jon Damon – Drums
Terran Fernandez – Bass and backing vocals
Avelino Ramirez – Keyboards

For more info:
Alizarinmusic.com
Facebook.com/alizaringroup
Instagram.com/alizarinband
EPK

– 30 –

“in a musical world swollen with progressive bands, Alizarin is a welcome and refreshing alternative, and and The Last Semblance an entertaining listen. Recommended. 4/5” – Dangerdog Music Reviews

“ALIZARIN play scintillating prog-metal and create a sonic soundscape.” – RAMzine

“While some of the material is more fitting to be described as “cinematic rock” due to the instrumental muzak feel of the songs’ structure, this album possesses the punch of a Dream Theater release and the momentum of a King Crimson record.” – Metal Injection (Album Review – Cast Zenith)

—

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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

Page 1 of 5

Asher Media Relations Tweets

RT @AllternativeIT: @bluehourghosts "On Black Clouds" (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO) #Modena #Italy @rockshotsrecords @ashermedia #OnBlackCloud… 7 hours ago
@Sym246 \m/\m/ glad you enjoyed 7 hours ago
RT @AiiRadioLive: #AiiR #Twitch Jan 23rd at 1pm NYC• 6pm UK #Premiers:@bluehourghosts,@pinkcocoonband & #PromiseDown+@isidris,@lugnetrock,@… 8 hours ago
RT @Thedoorwayto: Posted by The DoorwayTo January 23, 2021 SLIPTRICK RECORDS - RED CAIN KINDRED ACT II - VIDEO REVIEW ... OUT NOW @AsherM… 8 hours ago
RT @ScottBrownstone: Listen Live aiiradio.net #AiiR #Twitch #NowPlaying on #SaturdayFlightLive Opening w/ The @AiiRadioLive #Pre… 8 hours ago
RT @ScottBrownstone: Listen Live aiiradio.net #AiiR #Twitch #NowPlaying on #SaturdayFlightLive The @AiiRadioLive #Premier of @bl… 8 hours ago
RT @PlagueWeaver: Thx @JVariation for short review of our new LP !!! jupiter-variation.com/post/plague-we… #blackmetal #blackmetalmusic #doommetal #metal… 8 hours ago
New Music from the Inbox Tuesday Edition! (January 19, 2021): Maxïmo Park, Octopus Montage, @bluehourghosts… twitter.com/i/web/status/1… 8 hours ago
Brazil's @Rage_In_My_Eyes Drummer Shares Playthrough For "The Core" Off Latest Album “Ice Cell” - youtu.be/FAywwmOOOCI 8 hours ago
Carlos Zema & Gabriel Guardian (Immortal Guardian): “We decided as a band to just re-write an entire album about th… twitter.com/i/web/status/1… 8 hours ago

Asher Media Email Subscription

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Join 4,136 other followers

Email Address: