Tag: Porcupine Tree

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:

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 –

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
asher[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
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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:

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

Album Pre-Order HERE.

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 –

“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

“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
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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.

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
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0 Cinematic Prog Alizarin Premiere Single ‘Heirloom’ via TheProgSpace; New Album “The Last Semblance” Out July 10, 2020

June 17, 2020
by Asher
· Alizarin · Music News

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 17, 2020

For fans of Opeth, Haken, Porcupine Tree, Alice in Chains, Nevermore

Cinematic Prog Alizarin Premiere Single ‘Heirloom’ via TheProgSpace

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

Cinematic rock metallers Alizarin announce they will be releasing their sophomore album “The Last Semblance” on July 10, 2020 and are excited to share the full length’s third single ‘Heirloom’. The track is one of the heavier, more energetic, and harder-hitting songs with some of the strongest vocal parts and strangest grooves on the album.

Today, the band has teamed up with TheProgSpace for the premiere of ‘Heirloom’ HERE.

Vocalist/guitarist Josh Kay explains the track in further detail:

“It is one of the most heavy-hitting, catchy, and melodic tunes that also captures many of the approaches we incorporate. “Heirloom” almost steps into power metal territory, while still holding a firm footing in groove-oriented progressive metal. Thematically, the song considers the timeline of humanity and our intellectual evolution. It looks at humans as emotionally charged and proud “adolescents” of sorts on this timeline, with a long way to go to find a more harmonious existence, if that time ever arrives. ”

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.

Alizarin released their first full-length album, titled “Cast Zenith”, in 2018 and is preparing to release their new album “The Last Semblance” in summer 2020. Unlike their strictly instrumental debut record, this follow up release features prominent vocals throughout. 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 Last Semblance” covers a wide spectrum of sonic landscapes and emphasizes the melodic journey over deliberate technique. Although Kay is the chief songwriter of Alizarin, the compositions on the new record focus on a balance of each instrument, with less of an emphasis on the domination of guitar solos and a greater exploration of what each musician is capable of. The album draws influence from such groups as Porcupine Tree, Haken, Alice in Chains, Opeth, Portishead, and many more. The results are a sound that is challenging to define, pensive, and often at the crossroads of melody and dissonance.

Kay adds:

“The album is a work of cinematic progressive metal, centered around brooding melodies and wrapped in epic compositions. There are influences from many styles of music, many beyond metal as well. The music is very melody-driven, with technical aspects in moderation woven into the larger song structures. The chords, melodies, and arrangements are meant to be unpredictable, unconventional, and compelling while remaining extremely listenable and catchy.“

Album pre-order HERE along with an immediate download of singles ‘Heirloom’, ‘Velvet Margin’, and ‘Elegy Simulacra’ plus their previous release “Cast Zenith” available on Spotify and iTunes.

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 –

“If you like true prog with many deep routed jazz rhythm changes, close harmonies, and unexpected cadences, this is certainly the album for you. It has a classic sound, which reminds me very much of bands like The Enid and Rush, but also is heavily influenced by more recent developments like Opeth.” – Ever Metal (Album Review – The Last Semblance)

“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)

“‘Cast Zenith’ is music that has intelligence and depth, music that takes the listener on an involving journey. This is a great start from this impressive trio and one which promises much for the future, Alizarin are a band that we definitely need to keep an eye on.” – Prog Radar (Album Review – Cast Zenith)

“Creating songs that can grip the standard listener and help expand their ideas and thoughts on what music should and can be. That’s what makes great prog truly great, and on that note the debut album Cast Zenith is a great album by a fantastic band.” – Metal Assault (Album Review – Cast Zenith)

“There is a lightness, space and confidence on this album, and it certainly doesn’t come across as a self-released debut, but rather from guys who have been around the block. Jazzy prog metal (love the distorted chorded fretless bass on “Anomaly”) which is worth hearing.” – Progressor (Album Review – Cast Zenith)

“There is plenty of variety on this all-instrumental debut. Alizarin have produced a stunning debut, showing compositional chops and instrumental prowess.” – Progressive Rock Fanatics (Album Review – Cast Zenith)

—

ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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

0 Cinematic Prog Alizarin Premiere Single ‘Velvet Margin’ via Metal-Rules

May 22, 2020
by Asher
· Alizarin · Music News

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – May 22, 2020

For fans of Opeth, Haken, Porcupine Tree, Alice in Chains, Nevermore

Cinematic Prog Alizarin Premiere Single ‘Velvet Margin’ via Metal-Rules

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

Cinematic rock metallers Alizarin announce they will be releasing their sophomore album “The Last Semblance” on July 10, 2020and are excited to share the full length’s second single ‘Velvet Margin’. The track is very vocally driven with many harmonies throughout with plenty of piano and acoustic guitar sections.

Today, the band has teamed up with Metal-Rules for the premiere of ‘Velvet Margin’ HERE.

Vocalist/guitarist Josh Kay explains the track in further detail:

“This second single, “Velvet Margin”, is a drastic contrast from most of the other tracks on the new record. Driven by haunting vocal lines, expressive counter harmonies, and layered acoustic instrumentation, the song arguably contains some of the most melodic and memorable passages on the album. In many ways it is some of the most uncharted territories for Alizarin, letting the vocals drive a lot of the music and focusing even less on flashy or over the top instrumentation. The closest thing to a “ballad” we have, although we tend to steer clear of that term.”

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.

Kay adds:

“The album is a work of cinematic progressive metal, centered around brooding melodies and wrapped in epic compositions. There are influences from many styles of music, many beyond metal as well. The music is very melody-driven, with technical aspects in moderation woven into the larger song structures. The chords, melodies, and arrangements are meant to be unpredictable, unconventional and compelling, while remaining extremely listenable and catchy.“

Album pre-order HERE along with an immediate download of singles ‘Velvet Margin’ and ‘Elegy Simulacra’ plus their previous release “Cast Zenith” available on Spotify and iTunes.

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

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0 THE RETICENT Releases Dark Somber Cover of Metallica’s “Fade To Black”; New Album “The Oubliette” Coming 2020 via Heaven & Hell Records

April 3, 2020
by Asher
· Music News · The Reticent

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – April 3, 2020

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

THE RETICENT Releases Dark Somber Cover of Metallica’s “Fade To Black”

New Album “The Oubliette” Coming 2020 via Heaven & Hell Records

The Reticent has a new single out, a cover of Metallica’s classic “Fade To Black”, which will be featured on the progressive metal band’s forthcoming album “The Oubliette” produced by Jamie King (BTBAM, The Contortionist, etc.) and due out later this year via Heaven & Hell Records.

The already somber tune is matched up with an equally solemn black and white video. Chris Hathcock, the founder of the band, who performed all main instruments and vocals on the track, goes into depth about choosing the cover:

“The original is a timeless classic, but in listening to it I thought that perhaps the sadness of the words were somewhat attenuated by the catchy and driving riffs. It thematically fell right in line with the over concept of “The Oubliette” as that blanket of loneliness and despair can fall over the suicidal and Alzheimer’s patients alike. I decided to reduce the instrumentation as much as possible to increase that sense of isolation and only used effects to increase the atmosphere. Minimalist and empty sounding like a hospital room. The result hopefully draws more attention to the stark hopelessness in the lyrics. The distance and atmosphere in the track are meant to feel not just isolated, but almost ghostly – as if we are hearing the baleful thoughts of a man void of hope trapped in a hospital bed.”

The Reticent began as an almost exclusively melancholy acoustic project for Hathcock. As time has gone on, the sound of the band got heavier and more diverse. The progressive nature of the band’s most recent offerings now encompasses such a wide scope that one can’t listen to a single song and know the band’s sound.

Recommended for fans of Opeth, Porcupine Tree, and Katatonia; “The Oubliette” will be the fifth album in The Reticent’s discography and is expected out in 2020 as the release date is TBA.

To hear the stream of The Reticent‘s cover of Metallica’s “Fade To Black”, please the following link: https://youtu.be/h4rUYRcVbys

To listen to The Reticent‘s previous release “On The Eve Of A Goodbye” produced by Jamie King (BTBAM, The Contortionist, Scale the Summit) please visit one of the following links on Spotify, Bandcamp or Apple Music.

For more info:
TheReticent.net
Facebook.com/thereticentmusic
Instagram.com/thereticentofficial

About:

The Reticent are an NC outfit that Hard Rock Haven put it, “progressive in the truest sense of the term”. Beginning as an atmospheric acoustic side project for mastermind Chris Hathcock while he toured with war-metallers Wehrwolfe, The Reticent has become a fully realized emotional experience rooted in progressive rock and metal. This is epitomized in the band’s critically acclaimed latest release on Heaven & Hell Records, “On The Eve Of A Goodbye”, produced by Jamie King (BTBAM, The Contortionist, Scale the Summit) – a tragic autobiographical concept record that chronicles the day before, day of, and day after the suicide of Hathcock’s childhood friend Eve.

Critics and fans of the record alike have been moved by the compelling narrative and heartrending performances. The Reticent has gone even further in their live performances to create an audiovisual emotional experience unlike any other by utilizing film, story-telling, and the sheer intensity of the music. Such unique and evocative performances have earned The Reticent a reputation throughout the east as a stellar live show – taking in awards for their live performances from magazines like YES! Weekly. This intense live experience is achieved thanks to the incredible talents of The Reticent’s other members: James Nelson (Ozai), Cliff Stankiewicz (Abacab, Interstellar Overdrive), and Mitch Moore (Rites to Sedition, Inferion).

As of 2019, Hathcock has begun preparing The Reticent for a new concept album and all new stage shows. The forthcoming album (again produced by Jamie King), “The Oubliette” is another stirring autobiographical tale, this time of the tragedy of Alzheimer’s disease. Fans and critics alike are eager to sink their teeth into another intense emotional outpouring of progressive metal as The Reticent prepares to release new music and strike back out on the road.

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
asher[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
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0 Rockshots Records: Out Now! Proggers THE ONEIRA’s New Album ‘Injection’

March 13, 2020
by Asher
· Music News · The Oneira

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – March 13, 2020

For fans of Porcupine Tree, Rush, Yes

Rockshots Records: Out Now! Proggers THE ONEIRA’s New Album ‘Injection’

Progressive rock act THE ONEIRA third album “Injection” is now available as of March 13th, 2020 via Rockshots Records.

Led by the Greek multi-instrumentalist Filippos Gougoumis, THE ONEIRA is a multi-cultural project with members from across Greece, Italy, and Germany. The word oneira means “dreams” in Greek to symbolize the willpower of flying across the universe with music.

Following their highly acclaimed albums ‘Hyperconscious’ (2014) and ‘Natural Prestige’ (2011), “Injection” marks a further step towards a more mature and complex sound. Produced and arranged by Filippos Gougoumis and Oliver Philipps (Everon, Delain) plus mixed by Christian Moss, “Injection” is Greek composer Filippos Gougoumis’ homage to positive vibes and battle against fear and sorrow.

Videos:
‘Still Free To Choose’: https://youtu.be/H_gnWeczh28
‘Know That Feeling’: https://youtu.be/Qja8KQun5G8

“Injection” is available both CD and Vinyl via Rockshots Records‘ official store:
CD order: http://bit.ly/Injection_CD
VINYL order: http://bit.ly/Injection_VINYL

and on digital platforms:
Spotify
Apple Music

Artwork and album design were created by Jan Örkki Yrlund at Darkgrove Design.

Track Listing:
1. Still Free To Choose (4:19)
2. Know That Feeling (6:39)
3. Edipsos (5:55)
4. Behind The Sun (3:47)
5. Make My Day (4:55)
6. Paint Your Soul (4:17)
7. Trust No One (5:19)
8. Over The Mountain (4:52)
9. Injection (7:35)
Album Length: 47:41

THE ONEIRA are:
Filippos Gougoumis: Composer, lead and rhythm guitars, 12 strings guitar, bass, backing vocals
Manuel Ruscigno: Lead vocals
Gianpaolo “Banjo” Begnoni: Keyboards and programming
Danilo “Sakko” Saccotelli: Drums & percussion, backing vocals

For more info:
Rockshots.eu
Facebook.com/RockshotsRecords
TheOneira.com
Facebook.com/TheOneira

– 30 –

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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

0 Rockshots Records: Proggers THE ONEIRA Music Video ‘Still Free To Choose’; New Album ‘Injection’ Out March 13

January 20, 2020
by Asher
· Music News · The Oneira

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – January 20, 2020

For fans of Porcupine Tree, Rush, Yes

Rockshots Records: Proggers THE ONEIRA Music Video ‘Still Free To Choose’

New Album ‘Injection’ Out March 13

Progressive rock act THE ONEIRA has signed with ROCKSHOTS RECORDS for the release of their third album “Injection” on March 13th, 2020.

THE ONEIRA‘s official video for their first single ‘Still Free To Choose’: https://youtu.be/H_gnWeczh28

Stream ‘Still Free To Choose’:
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/30cvTdu
Apple Music: https://apple.co/36JzNwO

“Injection” will be available both CD and Vinyl.
Pre-order now available Rockshots Records’ official store:
CD Pre-Order: http://bit.ly/Injection_CD
VINYL Pre-Order: http://bit.ly/Injection_VINYL

Artwork and album design were created by Jan Örkki Yrlund at Darkgrove Design.

For more info:
Rockshots.eu
Facebook.com/RockshotsRecords
TheOneira.com
Facebook.com/TheOneira

– 30 –

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780
asher[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
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