Australia’s IMPERATORE Unveils First Single “Be A Man” From New Album “The Lionspirit” Out Dec 2025
Australian rock visionaries IMPERATORE return with the first single “Be A Man”, taken from their upcoming album “The Lionspirit“, due out onDecember 19th, 2025, via Rockshots Records. The song is released together with its official music video, introducing the core concept behind the album – a call to courage, resiliency, and self-mastery.
Blending heavy rock, progressive metal, and operatic grandeur, “Be A Man” stands as a powerful anthem of inner rebirth. Driven by amazing vocals, cinematic orchestrations, and uplifting melodies, the track embodies Imperatore’s distinctive sound – emotional, epic, and deeply reflective. Its lyrics invite listeners to confront fear, embrace authenticity, and rediscover the strength within, echoing the Stoic philosophy that inspired the entire record.
Founder Zoran Cunjack explains:
“Be A Man is about facing your inner fears and reclaiming your strength. True courage isn’t found in the world outside but in mastering your own mind and spirit. It’s a song about standing tall – not just as a man but as a human being who refuses to give up.”
“Be A Man” marks the beginning of Imperatore’s next chapter – a blend of cinematic power and operatic emotion that defines the band’s evolving sound. Produced by Zoran Cunjack, recorded and mixed by Rodion Farafontov, and mastered by Simon Jovanovic, the track sets the tone for what promises to be Imperatore’s most ambitious work to date.
For fans of Nightwish, Kamelot, Symphony X, Powerwolf, and Queen.
DIGITAL: http://lnk.to/Jh87DW89
Track Listing:
1. Ides Of March – 02:11
2. Be A Man – 04:40
3. Orion – 04:58
4. My Life – 04:49
5. Treachery – 04:13
6. Between The Worlds – 03:58
7. Men Of Pain – 05:14
8. All Of Us – 04:01
9. Australian – 04:35
10. Il Gladiatore – 04:09
Album Length: 41:58
Band Line Up:
– Zoran Cunjack – Vocals, Guitars
– Sean Allsopp – Drums
– Daniel Marijanovic – Bass Guitar
Guest appearance:
– Leon Todd – Lead Guitar (guest)
IMPERATORE is a rock and metal band from Perth, Australia, blending the power of heavy riffs, progressive structures, and operatic emotion into a cinematic sound that’s both modern and timeless. Founded in 2022 by Zoran Cunjack, Imperatore was born from a vision to unite the strength of metal with the grandeur of classical and symphonic music, creating an experience that transcends genre boundaries.
The project began as a creative outlet for Zoran’s compositions and quickly evolved into a full-fledged band featuring Daniel Marijanovic on bass and Sean Allsopp on drums, with occasional guest contributions such as Leon Todd on lead guitar. The sound is epic, dramatic, and profoundly emotional – one that evokes the storytelling power of opera while retaining the intensity of modern metal.
In 2023, Imperatore released their self-titled debut album “Imperatore“, which received critical acclaim and a nomination for Song of the Year by West Australian Music (WAM). The album established their trademark blend of symphonic rock and theatrical metal, earning praise for its originality and depth.
A year later, the band followed with “Nations, Rise!” (2024), a record that expanded their symphonic and conceptual direction while reinforcing the philosophical dimension of their music. With their third release, “The Lionspirit” (2025), Imperatore takes a bold creative step forward – combining metal energy, orchestral power, and Stoic-inspired themes into an emotionally charged journey through courage, endurance, and self-mastery.
The band’s live performances amplify this vision through immersive visuals and cinematic projections that transform each show into a full sensory experience. With its unique fusion of rock, opera, and philosophy, Imperatore stands as one of the most distinctive voices in today’s metal scene, appealing to fans of Nightwish, Kamelot, Symphony X, Powerwolf, and Queen.
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w/ BORN OF OSIRIS, HAVOK, GLYPH, RIOT CITY, THE BROWNING, VIRVUM and more!
Armstrong, BC, Canada – 15 Years of Mountain Moshing In The Okanagan!
“It’s one of the premier festivals of its kind in Canada, showcasing the biggest names in local, national, and international heavy metal music.” – Vancouver Sun
Celebrating 15 Years of mountain moshing in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, Armstrong MetalFest’s conquering 2025 lineup with BORN OF OSIRIS, HAVOK, GLYPH, RIOT CITY, THE BROWNING, VIRVUM, and lots more from across Canada and beyond will descend on Armstrong, BC on July 11th and 12th at the Hassen Arena, for two days of moshing, headbanging, and camping.
All tickets provide general admission and grant access to the festival grounds, camping area, and arena from 9:00 AM on Friday, July 11, 2025, until 10:00 AM on Sunday, July 13, 2025. Free camping is included.
Armstrong MetalFest 2025 Schedule
Headlining opening night, Friday, July 11th, Denver thrashers HAVOK are no strangers to the mosh pits, these veterans have unleashed five studio albums – Burn (2009), Time Is Up (2011), Unnatural Selection (2013), Conformicide (2017), V (2020) – and recently surprised fans this past November with the EP “New Eyes”. Music Video – Death Is An Illusion – https://youtu.be/hkUgz-DeFAo
Also supporting the Friday night stage, the Pacific Northwest’s Glyph (ft. members fromGatekeeper, Greyhawk, Hjelvik), which is not just a heavy metal band, they are a crew of intergalactic mercenaries escaping a dying planet in their spaceship, the VSS Dragonlord. Clearly, Glyph isn’t just writing songs, they’re building worlds and they bring it forth in their latest album “Honor, Power, Glory” released in March 2024. Lyric Video – March of the Northern Clan (feat. Nathan Harrison) – https://youtu.be/htSyUb25wD4
Another highlight for Friday is the screaming heavy metal from Calgary’s speed demons Riot City, who bring forth theirsteel, spikes, and leather! A youthful band that represents the new face of Canadian metal. An amalgam of ripping and hot heavy metal, created in pure and youthful madness, their bullet belts feature two full-length albums, “Electric Elite” (2022), “Burn The Night” (2019), and their latest live album, “Live in Newcastle” (2023). Album Stream – Electric Elite – https://youtu.be/j3hA1nrG7M0
Saturday, July 12th will be headlined by international tour de force, progressive deathcore titans, Chicago’s BORN OF OSIRIS. The group is signed to Sumerian Records and has released seven full-length albums and two EPs. Their album, A Higher Place, reached number 73 on the Billboard 200. Their second full-length album, The Discovery, debuted at 87 on the Billboard 200. The band unveiled their latest single “In Desolation” this past August. Visualizer – In Desolation – https://youtu.be/9OyMRRAq9fI
Also featured on Saturday is AMF alumni Kansas City’s THE BROWNING who will be unleashing their unique eclectic blend of electronicore and deathcore. This past November, they released their sixth album, “OMNI,” which features 10 powerful tracks, including collaborations with Nik Nocturnal and the eponymous song with THE DEFECT. Music Video – OMNI (feat. THE DEFECT) – https://youtu.be/VhyuduP3MdY
Performing for the first time at AMF and adding to the nostalgia of Saturday night, VIRVUM, progressive/technical death metal all the way from Zürich, Switzerland, that many in Canada have been waiting a long time to witness. There’s no better place to see them along with the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies than at AMF 2025. The Cypher Supreme – https://youtu.be/9W9Kp38I9yY
Other treasured highlights of this year’s fest not to miss are Montreal, QC up-and-coming thrashers DROWNING IN BLOOD, who are notorious pit mongers and have made quite a name for themselves in Eastern Canada. Vancouver’s GRAVEMASS might be a new band, but they feature some seriously experienced metalheads from Zimmers Hole, The Golers, Punch Drunk, 3 Inches of Blood, and Revocation. Switzerland’s technical death/black metal Stortregn delivers a mix of charging riffs, blast beats, and brutality that leaves the listener begging for more. The Defect is an electronic rock/metal project created by husband and wife duo – Jonny McBee (The Browning) and Moon McBee. Their debut album “Death X Destiny” was released on February 7, 2025, under the record label FiXT. From the Salish lands of Spokane, WA, Hísemtuks Hími•n introduces their Indigenous melodic black metal of hard-hitting riffs, fast-paced drumming, and a lot of melody. This project has strong roots in the Spokane Tribe/Nez Perce. Most songs are about Native American mythology, history, and folklore.
AMF 2025 Lineup:
Havok (Denver, CO)
Born of Osiris (Chicago, IL)
Glyph (Seattle, WA)
Riot City (Calgary, AB)
The Browning (Kansas City, KS)
Virvum (Zürich, Switzerland)
Atavistia (Vancouver, BC)
Drowning In Blood (Montreal, QC)
Convictions (Fremont, OH)
Scalding (Vancouver, BC)
Syryn (Calgary, AB)
Stortregn (Geneva, Switzerland)
The Defect (Kansas City, KS)
Gravemass (Vancouver, BC)
Lover (Calgary, AB)
Yegg (Vancouver Island, BC)
Hísemtuks Hími•n (Spokane, WA)
The Spruce Moose (Edmonton, AB)
Volt (Fort McMurray, AB)
Jisei (Vancouver, BC)
Nomad (Okanagan Valley, BC)
Planetkiller (Kelowna, BC)
Shackled To The Throne (Edmonton, AB)
The Cadavor Dog (High River, AB)
Famous Strangers (Edmonton, AB)
Valley of Despair (Edmonton, AB)
Naitaka (Kelowna, BC)
FloodGate (Kelowna, BC)
In addition to the performing bands, Armstrong Metal Fest is bringing back the following on-site activities: Yeti Games, Metal Madness Market, and Thrash Wrestling.
Please Note: Camping – RV / Non-Hookup RV / Vehicle Passes: Make sure to reserve your vehicle spot to get the best location on the grounds. A fee is required for a weekend pass per vehicle in addition to your day or weekend pass. RV hookups include water and power. If you choose to park your vehicle outside the camping area in the main parking lot, then a vehicle pass is not required.
About: Since 2009 (minus pause years 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid pandemic), West Metal Entertainment and Armstrong Metalfest have not only fostered the talent of hundreds of local bands, but have imported well-known, international acts to the quiet, little Canadian town of Armstrong, British Columbia.
Each year hundreds of metal music fans from Canada and the USA descend into the picturesque Okanagan Valley and under the blistering sun, they spend three days camping, taking in a tonne of heavy metal fun over two days, spectating wrestling events, participating in scavenger hunts, and catching up with their extended metal family.
The festival has seen such renowned headliners as Kataklysm, Cattle Decapitation, Archspire, Nekrogoblikon, Origin, Rivers of Nihil, Warbinger, Fallujah, Striker, and Beyond Creation as well as emerging artists from across North America. At the end of the revelry, the festival disappears without a trace, leaving the landscape as pristine as it has always been.
West Metal Entertainment is a non-profit society that not only puts on the Armstrong Metal Festival every year in Armstrong, B.C. but also gives bands opportunities to play at different venues throughout the region including all-ages shows, to encourage musical passion in kids as well as adults.
Partners:
WCMFA
AlumaPro Welding & Fabrication Ltd
Vox and Hops
Rancho Vignola
Creative BC
Province of BC
Shepherds Hardware
Askews Foods
ACE Containers
Asher Media Relations
Staggs Head
Sunbelt Rentals
Bravewords
V13
Metal-Rules
Absolute Underground Mag
Broken Neck Radio
Ghost Cult Magazine
This Day In Metal
Valstar Electric
Voets
What the press is saying:
“Armstrong Metalfest brings aggressive music to the North Okanagan” – Global BC News
Kelowna Now: Armstrong Metal Festival Co-founder reflects on a decade of metal – Video Interview here.
CHBC – Global Okanagan: Metalheads celebrate a decade of gathering in Armstrong – Video Interview here.
Global Okanagan – Armstrong Metalfest brings aggressive music to the North Okanagan – Video here.
“In the past, metalheads had to travel to Germany to experience the rush of a big festival, such as Wacken Open Air. But local headbangers decided to bring that feeling home with Armstrong Metalfest.” – Vernon Morning Star
“Go Big or Stay at Home: Armstrong has that welcoming feeling for a rock show.” – The Valley Voice
“To witness such a gathering of talent is an absolute privilege, and for that fact alone, I will certainly be returning to Armstrong Metal Fest.” – Beatroute BC
“This festival is now going to be my yearly must-go-to event and if you’re a metal head that hasn’t attended or a curious metal voyeur, do yourself a favour and check it out, you will not regret it.” – Abort Mag
“The Armstrong Metalfest is one such event and has grown from its initial, humble beginnings seven years ago to be a regular mainstay, with its south-central BC location making for a popular summertime destination for fans and bands alike.” – Decibel Mag
Named one of the out-of-town music festivals worth the trip by The Vancouver Sun
“For metalheads, this is a great vacation where groups of all sizes can enjoy their favourite musical genre in a fun, energized environment. Not to mention, the camping!” – The Permanent Rain Press
“From farm to stadium: Armstrong Metal Fest’s humble beginnings” – Info News
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Canadian Power Thrash PHEAR’s New Lyric Video Reigns In A “New World Error”
New Album “Save Our Souls” (Produced by Jon Howard (Threat Signal)) Out Now!
Live Lineup – PHEAR – Alex Zubair – Guitar, Pat Rogers – Guitar, Chris Boshis – Bass Guitar / Backing Vocals, Andrew Suarez – Drums, Patrick Mulock – Vocals
Canadian power thrashers PHEAR have a new lyric video to reign in the “New World Error”. The track is off their second full-length album “Save Our Souls”, which was unleashed this past February from Golden Robot Records.
“New World Error” is a musical and lyrical statement on all the terrible atrocities going on in the world today.
“Humans are sometimes the plague of humanity.” adds the band.
Watch and listen to “New World Error” via its premiere on MetalAddcist HERE.
Produced, mixed, and mastered by Jon Howard (Threat Signal), Phear‘s sophomore album “Save Our Souls” can be best described as their heaviest offering to date and follows the award-winning album “Instanitarium” (2019), and the critically acclaimed EP “The Curse Lives On” (2020).
Extremely passionate, and driven, along with their arena-caliber sound, PHEAR is always thinking of new ways to entertain its fans, and “Save Our Souls” is no exception. Mostly written during the dark times of COVID-19, the record has taken four years to complete. Led by Patrick Mulock and producer Jon Howard in the studio, each musician was pushed hard to get the best out of each of them and they delivered.
“We had a lot of time to craft these songs. We didn’t have any time restraints. We would go into the studio and do three songs at a time. We were very excited to work with Jon Howard (Threat Signal) again. Jon is the sixth member of Phear. The studio experience was great as we fed off each other’s ideas. We pushed each other to get the best performances we could. There are NO FILLERS here. Seven String guitars have played a big part in this. Our sound has grown. The bass guitar on this album is HUGE! The drumming from Mike Harshaw was also very aggressive. If you were to ask me now… This is the heaviest Phear has ever been… for now lol!” adds Mulock.
A listening experience of thrash, prog, and classic metal elements, PHEAR offers a strong balance from infectious choruses to melodic and growling vocals for true heavy metal nostalgia. Their two previous singles, the album’s title track and “Snake” are sure to make fans throw up their hail horns and headbang with a sore neck. Plus the band offers up their cover version of Nevermore‘s “Narcosynthesis”.
PHEAR features Patrick Mulock (Lead Vocals) (Eidolon, Rampage), Pat Rogers (Lead & Rhythm Guitars) (Profaner- 2016 Wacken Metal Battle Canada Champions), Alex Zubair (Lead & Rhythm Guitars) (Burn to Black, Nadar Sadek, Iomair, Nephelium), Andrew Suarez (Drums) (Fatality, The Slyde – 2023 Wacken Metal Battle Canada Champions) and Chris Boshis (Bass) (Conflicted).
Throughout their existence, PHEAR has had the honour of opening for German metal legend UDO DIRSCHNEIFER, THE DEAD DAISIES, and STRYPER, along with performing on a pre-show for icons and heroes IRON MAIDEN in 2019 in Toronto at Budweiser Stage.
Recommended for fans of Iron Maiden, Megadeth, Judas Priest, Dream Theater (prog elements), and Metallica, PHEAR‘s latest album “Save Our Souls”, released on February 13th, 2025, is available from Golden Robot Records at the following link (Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon) – https://orcd.co/save-our-souls
Track Listing
1. Aftershock (5:11)
2. Save Our Souls (6:39)
3. Snake (5:26)
4. Narcosynthesis* (5:29) (*Nevermore Cover)
5. New World Error (5:11)
6. Lease on Life (7:02)
7. Bleed (7:57)
8. On Thin Ice (8:20)
9. Delusions (Live) 6:45)
Album Length: 58:03
Album Credits:
All songs performed by: Phear
All songs written by: Phear
*excluding “Narcosynthesis” Written by Nevermore
Produced by: Jon Howard and Phear
Mixed by: Jon Howard and Phear
Mastered by: Jon Howard (Woodward Avenue Studios)
Album Artwork for “Save Our Souls”: Drake Mefestta
Recording Band Line Up:
Patrick Mulock – Lead Vocals
Chris Boshis – Bass Guitars, Backing Vocals
Alex Zubair – Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar
Pat Rogers – Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar
Mike Harshaw – Drums
Live Band Line Up
Patrick Mulock – Lead Vocals
Chris Boshis – Bass Guitar, Backing Vocals
Alex Zubair – Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar
Pat Rogers – Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar
Andrew Suarez – Drums
“This album has a lot of (gillend) guitar playing, an excellent rhythm section and good vocals. Nice use has been made of the distribution over the headset. Due to the verse-chorus structure, some parts are somewhat predictable. Yet it is quite well put together vocally and instrumentally. The choruses in particular stick pleasantly in your head.” – Maxazine.nl
“Thrashy power metal, just a really cool sound from the get go…. and a cover of Nevermore’s Narcosynthesis to give you a little idea of their vibe.” – MoshPit Radio 89.9 FM – Madison, WI
“Part HM, part Power, with a sprinkling of Metalcore, Prog and Thrash, this is stoopid infectious” – Cult Metal Flix
““The Curse Lives On is a testimonial to what power / thrash metal can do to your soul, deep, dark and loud. just crank it up and feel the Phear.” – Bravewords (2020 – The Curse Lives On)
“PHEAR have so much potential and really reminded of bands like NEVERMORE, EIDOLON and late eighties FATES WARNING. You have a top notch singer and a great backing band, they have a lot of potential that’s for sure. A band to look out for in 2020!” – Metal Temple (2020 – The Curse Lives On)
“With the sonic power of IRON MAIDEN, blended with the classic style of JUDAS PRIEST, PHEAR bring to life their monster live shows to the ears of fans across the globe.” – KNAC (2020 – The Curse Lives On)
“The live songs were recorded in Toronto and this recording shows that the band seems to be able to deliver a live show like any good seasoned band. There are good interactions with the crowd, just enough to show a frontman able to get them going without being overbearing and breaking the flow of the show. One can’t help but smile when he goes, “Scream for me Toronto!” in very Bruce Dickinson fashion. I wish I head heard the originals but suffice it to say that their songwriting style is very much influenced by Maiden, though much closer to their post-reunion output that any of the classic ’80s stuff. Bottom line, this is over an hour of cool material kind of anonymized by a nondescript name. Worth checking out if you’re into newer Maiden. This is a band that might go places if they play their cards right. 4/5″ – The Metal Crypt (2020 – The Curse Lives On)
“If you are looking for some great classic sounding metal with fantastic vocals, amazing guitar work, give Phear a listen by checking out both Insanitarium and The Curse Lives On, both available now and catch them live when you get the chance. I guarantee you’ll love it all.” – Metal Master Kingdom
“Mixing the components of the NWOBHM era, blending them and sculpting them around their sound, making this offering by the Canadan-quintet a must in the air-guitar collection.” Metal Temple (2019 – Insanitarium)
“Mississauga-based Phear packs quite a punch on its debut full-length release, Insanitarium, The band’s brand of power/thrash metal is a perfect blend of melody and ferocity.” – Bravewords (2019 – Insanitarium)
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LAY OF THE AUTUMN Explores Struggle and Empowerment w/ New Video “Thrown Away”
New Album “Of Love And Sorrow” Out Now! via Rockshots Records
Rockshots Records and Lay Of The Autumn proudly present the official music video for “Thrown Away”, one of the standout tracks from their debut album “Of Love And Sorrow” released on October 25th, 2024.
A striking blend of Symphonic Power Metal, cinematic soundscapes, and electronic elements, “Thrown Away” explores struggle, catharsis, and empowerment themes. The song is driven by intense riffs, soaring melodies, and fast, intricate guitar and keyboard solos, complemented by ERIA’s evocative vocal performance, which captures vulnerability and strength.
Following the success of “Lost In Your Eyes”, this new track from “Of Love And Sorrow”, “Thrown Away” further establishes the band’s ability to craft music that balances melancholy with power, emotion with precision, and melody with intensity. The album, featuring 10 tracks blending Power Metal, Symphonic Metal, Melodic Death Metal, and cinematic influences, was mixed and mastered by Ettore Rigotti (Disarmonia Mundi) at The Metal House Studios, ensuring a rich, polished, and dynamic sound.
Lay Of The Autumn continues to deliver a fresh yet familiar take on the symphonic metal genre, blending grand orchestrations with driving energy. With “Thrown Away” they offer listeners an emotional and powerful journey through their signature sound.
Watch the official music video now and experience the next chapter of “Of Love And Sorrow”!
Track Listing:
1 – When It Rains – 2:27
2 – Flowing Tears – 5:52
3 – Lost In Your Eyes – 5:51
4 – After All This Time? Always – 5:44
5 – Thrown Away – 5:53
6 – Undergo Deconstruction – 5:55
7 – Love You To Death – 6:20
8 – Si Sta Come D’Autunno Sugli Alberi Le Foglie – 5:02
9 – Of Love And Sorrow – 5:59
10 – Who Is To Blame – 5:39
Lay Of The Autumn are:
Main Singer: Iryna Eria Boyarkina – ERIA
Growl Singer: Andrea Gambaro
Keyboards/Composition: Davide Scuteri Music
Guitar: Davide Lovecchio
Bass: Cesare Ferrari
Drums: Michele Olmi
Mix and Mastering: Ettore Rigotti at The Metal House
Music Label: Rockshots Records
Moviemaker: Moviedel Productions
Photos: Flarescape
Cover artwork: ProgArt Media – Artwork by Mattias Norén
Jewel Designer: helenaromanova
Headbang To MINDRAZER’s Infectious Video “Suffer In Silence”
Out Now! New Album “A Thing of Nightmares” (Produced by Kevin Antreassian – Dillinger Escape Plan)
Get ready to headbang and sing along in your car with Mindrazer’s latest music video “Suffer in Silence” in support of their debut album, “A Thing of Nightmares” (produced by Kevin Antreassian – The Dillinger Escape Plan), which was released this past October via the label Misanthropic Records.
The lyrics are simple and the melody is infectious. Get your pipes warmed up for this power-thrashing banger!
The band comments about the track:
“This is a bi-polar anthem that has uplifting highs and brutal chugging lows. This one is about the toxic culture surrounding internet discourse.”
Check out the video premiere for “Suffer in Silence” on Metal-Rules HERE.
Combining the anthemic melodies of traditional and power metal, the precise, aggressive attack of thrash, and twists of dark intensity borrowed from second-wave black metal, Jersey, USA’s Mindrazer plays a style as familiar as it is fresh. Their first full-length, “A Thing of Nightmares” is a bold, brutal, and diverse exploration of melodic thrash metal, which even before its official release, was igniting mosh pits at the band’s live shows. Now, with the album’s availability, fans can delve into the depths of these tracks and experience them in all their glory.
The writing for the tracks on the album spans a large period of evolution, which can be heard as one progresses through the album. “Knightfall”, the earliest work, is much more power metal, upbeat, and melodic. “Better Dead”, another early song, is very riff-focused and old-school sounding. “Crusader” and “Suffer In Silence”, the later tracks on the record are great examples of how that power metal vibe never really left but the music got heavier and more technical. Each of the ten tracks offers epic melodies and frenetic dynamics that metalheads will be eager to sink their teeth into.
“This album really came as a collection of the best of our work from before 2020. ‘A Thing of Nightmares’ is a culmination of half a decade of artistic inspiration. We find that this record demonstrates immediately that we aren’t afraid to push the boundaries of the genre, whether it is crushing breakdowns, modern-tinged leads or even borrowing tropes from power metal. It is technical, epic, brutal but most of all fun. Borrowing stories from history, literature, and cinema, the album touches on themes of horror, shame, anger, oppression, and mania by way of story, metaphor, and allegory. We aren’t reinventing the genre or breaking significant new ground but we are bucking modern thrash trends of coalescing around the hardcore-laden neo-thrash and never straying from it and are doing so without regrets.” adds the band.
Released on October 13, 2023, “A Thing of Nightmares” is recommended for fans of Iron Maiden, Megadeth, and Blind Guardian andis available onSpotify, Apple Music, and Officialmindrazer.bandcamp.com.
Track Listing:
1. Entombed In Time (5:36)
2. Suffer in Silence (4:05)
3. Left to Rot (6:09)
4. In the Corner of Your Eye (6:06)
5. Knightfall (5:35)
6. The Misanthropist (6:11)
7. Extractor (4:51)
8. Better Dead (4:07)
9. Crusader (6:25)
10. Mercy (1:12)
Album Length: 50:22
Album Recording Lineup:
Nick DeFuria – Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitar, Classical Guitar, Additional Percussion
Vin “Hawky” Verducci – Bass Guitar
Brian Weissman – Drums, Percussion, Harsh Vocals
Zack Larmer – Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals
Featuring a guest guitar solo from Mo Uddin on track 7
Live Band Lineup:
Nick DeFuria – Lead Vocals and Guitar
Vin “Hawky” Verducci – Bass Guitar
Brian Weissman – Drums, Harsh Vocals
Patrick Wentz – Guitar and Harsh Vocals
“The lyrics of “A Thing of Nightmares” reflect dark themes that fit perfectly with the intense music. Mindrazer manage to create a dark atmosphere that captivates the listener. This album is a must for fans of Iron Maiden, Megadeth and Blind Guardian. It’s a powerful statement from a band that doesn’t allow itself to be locked into genre boundaries, but rather courageously explores new paths.” – Amplified Magazin
“I have to say the singer has a very interesting style. There is aggression and attitude with his voice, but he has a powerful almost operatic vibrato too, it’s very cool. Think Nevermore’s frontman… The leads are actually very good though, I’m reminded of Megadeth’s Marty Friedman. The solos have a similarly expressive vibrato and there is plenty of flashiness mixed with well judged melody.” – Metal Rules
“A Thing of Nightmares is a nice morning surprise, the kind that makes the day more pleasant… Able to draw a link between the 80s and the new century, the four musicians attack with benevolence, and even put us in a trance, when “Better Dead” advocates a chosen death rather than an suffered life. Until the end, the quartet holds the quality ramp firmly. And if “Crusader” is reminiscent of a more serious and bold MAIDEN, the influences are cleverly mixed so as not to stand out too much, which is always a good point. So let’s forget the easy promotional promises and concentrate on a slender album. MINDRAZER deserves to be better known on a large scale, and begins their career with a unifying work if not founding.” – MetalNews.fr
“The Bruce worship is strong but pulled off very well! I like the contrast between the powerful clean vocals and ultra thrash instrumental portion. The bass pops very well and the drums are frantic but on point.” – Cutting Edge Metal (USA)
“Entombed in Time stands out for its old school thrash metal concept accompanied by the fantastic and live sounding performances of Mindrazer.” -Metalhead Community Magazine (Switzerland)
“Good songs, really good guitar, even better vocalist; they’ll go far!” -Mark Wasserman, 3 and 1 Grab Productions, Live Sound: Nick Cannon’s “Wild n’ Out”, Barclay Center, Madison Square Garden, Staples Center, Arco Arena etc.
“It was an insane show! At one point the lead singer who was also playing guitar, steps out in front, puts his arm up, points a finger down and starts moving it in a circle like he’s indicating to the crowd “I want you to make a circle pit now” and you felt the entire mood of the room just change. Everyone got ready and they played this really heavy song. It was so good!” -WRCU-FM Radio Into the Pit
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First Full-Length “Reload The Violet” Out May 2024 via Rockshots Records
VIOLET ETERNAL was born out of the desire of two musicians from Italy and Japan to work with each other in creating a new melodic metal band, blending power, and oriental choruses with fast-paced rhythms and interpersonal lyrics, with the ambiance of shredding guitar solos.
Band co-founder and guitarist Jien Takahashi comments:
“I wanted to create the ultimate melodic power metal duo after MAJUSTICE and other activities, I was hungry for new music. There were a lot of songs at the end of the previous activity, so I was looking for a way to shape it. In such a situation, I met Ivan Giannini online. I originally knew Ivan from his legendary work with VISION DIVINE and the album “Angel of Revenge” and his other band Derdian. I was completely fascinated by his emotional voice that seemed to burn the skies. So I was wishing I could do something with him. When I got in touch with Ivan, we immediately hit it off and we decided to make an album together.”
After connecting with vocalist Ivan Giannini, Jien made a call to a mutual friend Ollie Bernstein (Illusion Force, Magic Opera) who he had a feeling would be interested in joining the duo in creating an album together plus he was also playing bass in Derdian, which Ivan was a member of too.
Not too soon after, more pieces to the project came together when the trio recruited Andrea Cappellari (Nekomata and former guitarist for Skeletoon).
With all the members collected, and music being written, the band was ready to hit the studio and decided to team up with producer Dennis Ward (Angra, Helloween) for their first full-length album “Reload The Violet”, which will be released on Rockshots Records this coming May 2024. The album also features guests Takao (MinstreliX), Gabriel Guardian (IMMORTAL GUARDIAN), keyboardist YUHKI, drummer Ryuya Inoue, and Timo Tolkki (ex-STRATOVARIUS).
“From the time of production, Ivan and I were convinced that this album would be a game changer. I think it’s a work that people who love melodic metal will enjoy. If you listen to the music of VIOLET ETERNAL when you feel down, you will surely feel cheerful with hot feeling. Our music will give you the courage. This album strikes hard with both powerful vocals and a perfect mix of oriental melodic metal and emotional vocals.” says Jien Takahashi.
To introduce Violet Eternal to the world, today the band unveils their debut track “The Echoes of Time”, a grand opus-style power metal anthem.
“If you’re familiar with my other band MAJUSTICE and the album title track ‘Ancestral Recall’, ‘The Echoes of Time’ is a continuation of that song. It’s a story about reuniting with someone broke up with in the past, but making mistakes again and again.” adds Jien Takahashi.
Listen to “The Echoes of Time” at the following links:
Recommended for fans of Stratovarius, Beast In Black, and Angra, Violet Eternal’s debut album “Reload The Violet” is due out on May 3, 2024, from Rockshots Records.
Track Listing:
1. The Titans – 1:35
2. The Echoes of Time – 4:59
3. Now and Forever – 3:53
4. Ember Flame – 4:06
5. Under the Violet Sun – 3:38
6. Land of Golden Sun – 4:13
7. Never Surrender – 3:41
8. Heartless – 3:27
9. Over the Sorrow – 4:17
10. Sonata Black – 5:17
Album Length: 39:12
Album Credits:
Violet Eternal Line-up :
Ivan Giannini (Vocals)
Jien Takahashi (Guitarist)
Sound Producer :
Dennis Ward (Sound Producer)
Additional Musicians :
Track 02 to 10. Andrea Cappellari (NEKOMATA, ex-SKELETOON) as Guitarist
Track 02 to 10. Ollie Bernstein (ILLUSION FORCE, MAGIC OPERA) as Bassist
Track 09. Takao (MinstreliX) as Guitarist
Track 09. Gabriel Guardian (IMMORTAL GUARDIAN) as Guitarist and Keyboardist
Track 10. YUHKI as Keyboardist
Track 09 to 10. Ryuya Inoue as Drummer
Track 10. Timo Tolkki (ex-STRATOVARIUS) as Song writer
Album Artwork: Jien Takahashi
Out Now! Italian / Malaysian Symphonic Power Metallers SILENT ANGEL New Album “Unyielding, Unrelenting”
With its foundations deeply rooted in power and symphonic metal along with mixing progressive and Japanese metal influences, Italian / Malaysian-based Silent Angel presents its debut album “Unyielding, Unrelenting”. Featuring 10 tracks, the crafting of the full length and lyrics was an exciting yet emotional process in which band founder Eric “StormBlade” Poon poured out his heart, soul, and emotions during the composition process.
“I hope that the listeners will immerse themselves in the music and that the emotions, energy, and feelings will be translated to the listeners whilst listening to the album in its entirety.”
Lead vocalist Claudia Beltrame adds:
“We’d like for our audience to be enthralled by the super catchy melodies and hit by the vibrant riffs, inspired by the greatest power metal bands from the 90s. We’d also like for them to appreciate the unique blend of the two voices, and be engrossed in the rhythmic session powerful throughout the album, from the most energetic tracks to the most emotional ones.”
Working on a shoestring budget, Silent Angel started off by recording some demos and put out a roughly recorded EP just to see if the music had potential and it did. Changing their lineup along with the global pandemic setting things back by a few years, through all the trials and tribulations, their hard work, dedication, and efforts are finally coming to fruition.
“The tracks are actually a selection of songs that I wrote back in the late 90s until the resurgence and reformation of Silent Angel in 2015 and subsequently, resumed writing and composing the music, lyrics, and song arrangement,” says Eric Poon.
“Unyielding, Unrelenting” is meant toimmerse fans in the music and let it give them the strength and courage to face their demons and overcome adversity. The record offers a lot of pleasant vintage vibes, magnificent guitar solos, and hammering drums, but also sentimental and quiet moments and unique melody lines with its soaring duo vocals and energetic rock singing from Claudia Beltrame, frontwoman for Italian symphonic prog band, Degrees Of Truth and Gracie Shona, well known from the Malaysian club scene.
“There will be a Silent Angel, a guardian, a protector that will give you that sliver of hope and nudge to push on and fight for a better future as you listen to ten tracks of power/symphonic metal,” adds Eric Poon.
Recommended for fans of Iron Maiden, Helloween, Stratovarius, Rhapsody, and Hammerfall, Silent Angel’s“Unyielding, Unrelenting” is available from Rockshots Records as of November 24th, 2023.
Track Listing:
1. Unyielding Spirit – 2:40
2. Against The Tides – 5:34
3. A Destiny In Shadows – 3:45
4. Through Selene’s Eyes – 4:30
5. Aurora’s Dream – 4:58
6. Descent Into Infinity – 3:50
7. When Dusk Meets Dawn – 3:20
8. Angel Rising – 4:07
9. Tears Of Celestine – 5:21
10. Twilight Of The Black Rose – 6:18
Album Length: 44:27
Silent Angel is:
Eric “StormBlade” Poon – Lead & Rhythm Guitars, Backing Vocals, Songwriter, Lyricist
Claudia Beltrame – Lead Vocals
Gracie Shona – Co-lead Vocals
Dauz – Bass
Permanent Session Musicians
Davide Scuteri – Keyboards, Synth
PAE – Drums
Silent Angel is currently endorsed by Blackstar Amps, MusicNomad Guitar Care, Mackie, Blacksmith Strings, and Zoom and is supported by CK Music (Malaysia), City Music Singapore, and EMusic Instruments.
About: Originally formed in 2000, and taking over a decade-long hiatus, the band returned in 2015 with a fresh new lineup and released two EPs along with gaining support on American, Canadian, Italian, Australian, and UK radio stations. The band was also honoured with recording a track for Samsung’s Milk Music Ad Campaign, plus performing a Malaysian tour where they headlined the IDX SummerFest, which was followed by two tours of Japan.
After the Japan tours, Silent Angel returned to the studios to record their full-length album but unfortunately were struck with tragedy with the untimely passing of their bass player putting the recording on pause.
Fast forward to 2020, Silent Angel brought in multi-award-winning recording and mixing engineer, Rahmad Kamikaze as the co-producer and welcomed bassist Dauz and professional drum sessionist PAE.
Moving in 2021, the beautiful and talented Italian soprano powerhouse Claudia Beltrame joined the band lineup, and later on with Italian keyboard and synth wizard, Davide Scuteri contributing his talent to the music, we’re now poised to unleash our full-length masterpiece upon the world in the very capable hands of our record label, Rockshots Records!
– 30 –
“The employment of dual female singers with Claudia Beltrame (also of Degrees of Truth) and Gracie Shona gives the band depth in terms of the styles explored because of their ranges – everything from rock to metal and operatic angles touched upon, coming together to harmonize certain passages for “Through Selene’s Eyes” to add more emotional, dramatic tension that mirrors the musical components. Guitarist Eric Poon as the main songwriter drives influences like Helloween, Hammerfall, and Stratovarius to the forefront, dazzling with tasty positive chord progressions and sophisticated lead breaks that make “Against the Tides” and “Descent Into Infinity” early appealers. At certain times Silent Angel also explores 80’s classic heroes like Iron Maiden when you hear the main hooks and higher melodies of “Angel Rising”, the drumming from Pae steady with interesting power moves which line up to the energetic guitar runs.” – Dead Rhetoric
“Unyielding, Unrelenting is aimed directly at fans of female-fronted symphonic/power metal” – Metal Crypt
““Against The Tides” appropriately opens the actual series of songs. The track varies the tempo again and again, but without taking it easy for even a second. As expected, the chorus is easily accessible, and the ladies Claudia Beltrame and Gracie Shona perform a fine duet…” – Hellfire Magazin
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RED CAIN Is On “The Great Hunt” With New Live Video Off Wheel of Time Inspired Album “NÄE’BLISS” Out June 2023
L-R – Taylor Gibson (drums), Kalie Yan (bass, vocals), Evgeniy Zayarny (vocals), Samuel Ridout (guitar)
Photo Credit Zak Kelly
The hunt is on with Calgary, Canada’s Red Cain‘s last single to be released before they unleash their new album “NÄE’BLISS” on June 2nd, 2023. One of the heaviest tracks in the Red Cain repertoire “The Great Hunt” is a stomping, driven ¾ march utilizing 8-string guitars and layers and layers of bass.
“This track pushes further into the djent riffs present elsewhere on the album, yet contains all of the usual characteristics of a Red Cain anthem – lush electronic backing, soaring, aggressive vocals, and a pulsing, headbanging groove. Conceptually, within the album’s theme continuing to revolve around the “Wheel of Time” universe, “The Great Hunt” calls our Forsaken protagonists to begin the hunt for the most dangerous game – their archenemy, the world-breaking Champion of the Light – the Dragon Reborn himself. With regression to the status quo threatening, and Chaos the only antidote, will this bold move yield success – or drive the world deeper into the designs of the Wheel? Step up, heft your spear – and join The Great Hunt.” adds the band.
Watch and listen to “The Great Hunt” via its live video at https://youtu.be/Xm8OeUGVkjg
Red Cain‘s third full-length album “NÄE’BLISS” is a homage to the legendary world of Robert Jordan’s fantasy epic “The Wheel of Time” (novel/TV series). With a grimdark edge, down-tuned guitars, death and power prog metal influences, and an unrelenting march forward, “NÄE’BLISS” is a foray into the reverse side of the Wheel of Time story – that of the Forsaken, antagonists, instruments of the Great Lord of the Dark, and the brutal and captivating allure of letting Chaos reign supreme.
The band explains further:
“We are fascinated by antagonists, why they stand against the “common good”, and how they came to fill that role – and when reading the Wheel of Time, there was the same intrigue behind how the very clearly defined “evil” faction in this world justified its existence. Why did the Forsaken willingly join the Shadow? Why do some men and women want the world to burn, and the Wheel to stop spinning? Within such a carefully crafted narrative and beautifully balanced universe, there were puzzling, unexplored gaps that we were determined to delve deeper into.
And of course, fantasy is but a mirror of reality – so outside WoT lore, these questions apply equally well to the world beyond our window. Which of our idols are false, which heroes degenerate, and what history is a compendium of careful lies? It is all too easy to raise your fist against those labeled evil by the multitudes or a voice above while failing to realize you yourself are the instrument of tyranny and corruption.
We are all massive fantasy fans, and for us, Wheel of Time rubs shoulders with LOTR as a genre-defining epic fantasy series that started it all. The world of the Wheel is a brutal, compelling world with multitudes of fascinating characters, and we were particularly interested in exploring its more visceral aspects – an area that begs to be paired with heavy metal. We’ve seen some of our musical icons, like Blind Guardian, successfully go down this path, and it was magnificent to see new musical interpretations of those stories spun out by them – not to mention some bloody good fun.
Now, it is our turn to ride forward in another turn of the Wheel. Enjoy!”
Red Cain is recommended for fans of Kamelot, Symphony X, Myrath, Powerwolf, Mastodon, and The Contortionist.
Track Listing:
1. Fisher King – 5:35
2. Blight – 6:37
3. The Great Hunt – 4:09
4. We Are Chaos – 4:55
5. Sightblinder – 2:47
6. The Man Who Can’t Forget (Part I) – 2:38
7. Crane of Malkier (Part II) – 2:04
8. Red Cain – Fires of Heaven ft. James Delbridge (Lycanthro) – 8:02
Album Length: 36:52
Red Cain, from Calgary, Canada is a modern progressive metal project with Eastern European roots. They have been making waves since their first release in 2016, with award-winning music videos and concept albums “Kindred: Act I” and “Kindred: Act II”. Red Cain’s first two full albums conceptually told a sprawling story of how raw and primal ancient myth collides with modern society and human yearning toward the stars, toward perfection. The albums contained a ton of genre inspirations, from gothic rock to ambient electronica, power, black, and death metal, and were universally lauded for their inventiveness, variety, and strong conceptual content. They continue this momentum with forthcoming releases.
Red Cain is:
Evgeniy Zayarny – Vocals
Samuel Ridout – Guitars
Tyler Corbett – Guitars
Kalie Yan – Bass, Vocals
Taylor Gibson – Drums
“This is a track (Sunshine (Blood Sun Empire) that infuses their progressive and power metal sound, similar to that of Symphony X and Kamelot. Alongside this, there are also faint similarities to bands like Dream Theater and even Korn. This is a nearly 6 minute track that doesn’t let up and doesn’t fear to change up its style throughout.” – Metal Injection
#10 Red Cain !earshot – The National Loud Chart For the Week Ending: Tuesday, February 9, 2021 (Earshot)
“From the proggy goodness of album opener “Kindred”, to the blast beats of “Baltic Fleet”, to the epic closer “Sunshine (Blood Sun Empire), there is something here for every fan of progressive power metal. With this being Act II in Red Cain’s Kindred body of work, I really feel as though I entered a movie theater right in the middle of an epic saga. Each song is a journey in and of itself, but each also contributes to the overall fantastic voyage. I will absolutely be purchasing Act I of this amazing tale and listen from start to finish, the way it was intended. Do yourself a favor and do the same!” – Metal Rules
“If you like your music melodic, mysterious, and gothic, with a progressive power metal base, then this is for you. This has been a joy to review and yet another band to add to my favoured list. ” – The Prog Space
“Zayarny is a powerhouse vocalist and the contortions he forces into Red Cain make for a very diverse record.. the talent behind the record is undeniable, and at the very least, Kindred proved far more creative and thought-provoking than most death metal records I’ve recently tackled. You should give it a shot — even if you’re not a big weenie..” – Angry Metal Guy
“Overall, ‘Kindred: Act II’ is an interesting mix of styles that combine together in technical wizardry to set the backdrop for the continued tales of the warrior Zalcoatl. There’s some unexpected musical influences that bubble to the surface, particularly the liberal use of electronic elements provides a futuristic, yet gothic, element to the tales. Vocally, there’s some clear inspiration from Kamelot going on here. They’re predominantly clean, but with a wide range between high pitched and deep passages. The guitar work is pretty varied as well and at times even hits a distinctly djent groove that seems to appear out of nowhere!… Fans of Kamelot and Mastodon alike will find some common ground with ‘Kindred: Act II’ (and Act I for that matter).” – Uber Rock
“These seasoned metal performers brought me to school with a clear cut album, delivered beautifully across seven tracks. The epic highs and lows of the album leave me wanting more… My hat is off to RED CAIN!” – Metal Temple
“With a flurry of progressive guitars, grandiose vocals and intriguingly wild effects, Red Cain burn brightly from the very start with the opening track, Kindred.” – Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life
—
ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780 | jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations | Instagram @AsherMedia | Tweet @AsherMedia
(Rockshots Records, Extreme Metal Music, Armstrong MF, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Le FestEvil)
Canada’s RED CAIN Delivers A Progressive Vector of Infection With New Single “Blight”
L to R: Samuel Ridout (guitar), Tyler Corbett (guitar), Evgeniy Zayarny (vocals), Kalie Yan (bass, vocals), Taylor Gibson (drums)
Calgary, Canada’s fantasy prog power metal Red Cain is kicking off the beginning of 2023 with their next The Wheel of Time (novel/TV series) inspired single entitled “Blight” that continues the storyline from their previous single “The Fisher King“ released this past November.
An epic and progressive track, “Blight” shreds fans into another voyage of storytelling, vocalist Evgeniy Zayarny explains further:
“Blight is defined as an organic contagion that damages, destroys, or corrupts. In the Wheel of Time universe, where the Dark One touches the world, uncontrolled and aberrant growth sprouts and covers the land, home to malign flora and monstrous fauna. With this track, we moved the needle firmly into the progressive part of our prog power style, delivering an atmospheric, chilling, and dynamic performance meant to mimic the unstoppable advancement of the Blight over the land. Is the Blight a disease or a majestic triumph of organic life without limits? With this Tesseract, Ihsahn, and Insomnium-influenced track, we explore this idea.
The concept of “Blight” came out of a question – what is the ideal state in the evolution of organic life? Influenced by authors like Stanislaw Lem and Adrian Tchaikovsky, this has long been a theme in science fiction and is becoming relevant in the modern era. The Blight also plays a key role within the Wheel of Time universe, and the concept sets the stage for a musical exploration from our end where another evolution to our sound likewise takes root.”
“Blight” was mastered by Alan Sascha Laskow (Every Hour Kills, ex-Divinity) and mixed by Tyler Corbett, (Sole Audio).
Listen to “Blight” via its premiere on Sonic Perspectives HERE.
Red Cain, from Calgary, Canada is a modern progressive metal project with Eastern European roots. They have been making waves since their first release in 2016, with award-winning music videos and concept albums “Kindred: Act I” and “Kindred: Act II”. Red Cain’s first two full albums conceptually told a sprawling story of how raw and primal ancient myth collides with modern society and human yearning toward the stars, toward perfection. The albums contained a ton of genre inspirations, from gothic rock to ambient electronica, power, black, and death metal, and were universally lauded for their inventiveness, variety, and strong conceptual content. They continue this momentum with forthcoming releases.
Red Cain is recommended for fans of Kamelot, Symphony X, Myrath, Powerwolf, Mastodon, and The Contortionist.
Red Cain is:
Evgeniy Zayarny – Vocals
Samuel Ridout – Guitars
Tyler Corbett – Guitars
Kalie Yan – Bass, Vocals
Taylor Gibson – Drums
Born out of the vast prairies and snowy peaks of Alberta, Canada, Red Cain is a modern progressive metal project with Eastern European roots. With intricate songwriting, powerful vocals, eerie soundscapes, and strong electronic-backed groove, Red Cain champion a fluid, dynamic, and unique style centered around telling dark, conceptual Faustian sagas and constructing those into an unforgettable live experience. Described by frontman Evgeniy Zayarny as a vehicle of “Melancholy and Rage”, Red Cain delivers power, flair, thematic Slavic influence, and intricate, lethal edge in their work. Listeners might well pick out elements reminiscent of such luminary acts as Kamelot, Symphony X, Tesseract, Lord of the Lost, whipped into a venomous new shape. The current incarnation of this Canadian metal band is of these influences mixed with a lot of vodka and Eastern European melancholy, shaken and stirred.
Red Cain self-released its debut self-titled EP in North America in 2016 to excellent reviews, and followed this up with two award-winning full-length albums, “Kindred: Act I” in 2019, and AFA-funded “Kindred: Act II” in 2021, working with Sliptrick Records globally to have over 3500+ physical copies sold, as well as over 200,000 digital streams to date. The band has hit #1 on the Canadian National Loud Charts on multiple occasions and is a 1x winner and 3x nominee for the Metal Recording of the Year at the YYC Music Awards.
The band has created 13 videos, of which 2 are full-length, high-production music videos for “ZERO” and “Juliet”. The latter two videos have won 17 awards at international music festivals, including the Berlin Short Film Festival, Venice Shorts, Global Shorts, IndieX FilmFesti, AIFF, and Hollywood Art & Movie Awards, among others. The band has a strong history of collaboration, with a highlight being our work with Juno Award-winning vocalist Kobra Paige of heavy metal band Kobra and the Lotus, on the track “Wing of the Crow”.
Red Cain released our latest album “Kindred: Act II” globally with Sliptrick Records in 2021, with a particular focus on promotion and engagement in the United States and Eastern Europe, where the band has received significant traction in 2020-21. With live performances stunted by COVID, the band has focused strongly on building out the concept behind the two-album “Kindred” arc with non-musical collateral, creating story content and custom art for the album concept.
With a significant upward trend of fan interest for this release, and 100,000 + digital streams, Red Cain has our set sights firmly set on another ambitious and conceptually exciting project, with the next release cycle coming in 2023.
– 30 –
What the press is saying:
“This is a track (Sunshine (Blood Sun Empire) that infuses their progressive and power metal sound, similar to that of Symphony X and Kamelot. Alongside this, there are also faint similarities to bands like Dream Theater and even Korn. This is a nearly 6 minute track that doesn’t let up and doesn’t fear to change up its style throughout.” – Metal Injection
#10 Red Cain !earshot – The National Loud Chart For the Week Ending: Tuesday, February 9, 2021 (Earshot)
“From the proggy goodness of album opener “Kindred”, to the blast beats of “Baltic Fleet”, to the epic closer “Sunshine (Blood Sun Empire), there is something here for every fan of progressive power metal. With this being Act II in Red Cain’s Kindred body of work, I really feel as though I entered a movie theater right in the middle of an epic saga. Each song is a journey in and of itself, but each also contributes to the overall fantastic voyage. I will absolutely be purchasing Act I of this amazing tale and listen from start to finish, the way it was intended. Do yourself a favor and do the same!” – Metal Rules
“If you like your music melodic, mysterious, and gothic, with a progressive power metal base, then this is for you. This has been a joy to review and yet another band to add to my favoured list. ” – The Prog Space
“Zayarny is a powerhouse vocalist and the contortions he forces into Red Cain make for a very diverse record.. the talent behind the record is undeniable, and at the very least, Kindred proved far more creative and thought-provoking than most death metal records I’ve recently tackled. You should give it a shot — even if you’re not a big weenie..” – Angry Metal Guy
“Overall, ‘Kindred: Act II’ is an interesting mix of styles that combine together in technical wizardry to set the backdrop for the continued tales of the warrior Zalcoatl. There’s some unexpected musical influences that bubble to the surface, particularly the liberal use of electronic elements provides a futuristic, yet gothic, element to the tales. Vocally, there’s some clear inspiration from Kamelot going on here. They’re predominantly clean, but with a wide range between high pitched and deep passages. The guitar work is pretty varied as well and at times even hits a distinctly djent groove that seems to appear out of nowhere!… Fans of Kamelot and Mastodon alike will find some common ground with ‘Kindred: Act II’ (and Act I for that matter).” – Uber Rock
“These seasoned metal performers brought me to school with a clear cut album, delivered beautifully across seven tracks. The epic highs and lows of the album leave me wanting more… My hat is off to RED CAIN!” – Metal Temple
“With a flurry of progressive guitars, grandiose vocals and intriguingly wild effects, Red Cain burn brightly from the very start with the opening track, Kindred.” – Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life
—
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Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780 | jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations | Instagram @AsherMedia | Tweet @AsherMedia
(Rockshots Records, Extreme Metal Music, Armstrong MF, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Le FestEvil)
Streaming Now! Star Wars Power Metal VIS MYSTICA’s New EP “Celestial Wisdom” Escapes Reality Into The Far Reaches Of A Distant Galaxy
ft. guests Ty Christian (Lords of the Trident), David Michael Moote (Operus), Jonas Heidgert (Dragonland)
– Produced by Chad Anderson (Helion Prime) –
“Celestial Wisdom” Out December 2nd
From a galaxy far, far away comes Vis Mystica, a Star Wars-based power metal act, that aims to provide escapism from everyday life and transportation into a fantastical world of magical powers and epic stories. Their debut EP “Celestial Wisdom” is eight bombastic tracks retelling the Dawn of the Jedi comics from Dark Horse Comics. The band quotes:
“This is an EP that we want people to listen to when they want to escape the craziness and mundane nature of everyday life. Sitting in an office for a 9 to 5 job doesn’t offer one much time for adventure or fantastical experiences and Vis Mystica wants to convey that through its music. You can be sitting at home, driving to work, anything and have the opportunity to turn on this album and be transported to a wonderful land outside of the boundaries of our reality.”
“Celestial Wisdom” is a fantastical journey into a world full of mystic powers and sprawling landscapes, with a classic “Good vs. Evil” battle and many memorable locations and detailed stories. All the themes come from the mind of Star Wars fan Connor McCray who suggests that fans can expect a massive amount of new music over the coming years as he has ideas for several albums to come already and these will only grow stronger with time.
Despite writing all of the music himself, McCray (guitar, bass, orchestration) relies on the talents and input of drummer Dillon Trollope and vocalist Devin Dewyer along with guests Ty Christian (Lords of the Trident), David Michael Moote (Operus), and Jonas Heidgert (Dragonland) to make the songs as strong as they can possibly be.
While they take great influence from other bands, Vis Mystica is quite confident that they possess a style that is somewhat unique in the Power Metal landscape. They are recommended for fans of Blind Guardian, Iron Maiden, and Bal-Sagoth.
Listen to “Celestial Wisdom” in full via its premiere on MetalInsider HERE.
“Celestial Wisdom” will be available on all digital platforms as of December 2nd, 2022.
Track Listing:
1. Whispering Winds of Fate (feat. Jonas Heidgert – Dragonland) – 3:58
2. Legacy of the Builders (feat. David Michael Moote – Operus and Ty Christian – Lords of the Trident) – 5:29
3. The Plains of Silence – 4:42
4. Lux Et Veritas (feat. David Michael Moote – Operus) – 5:36
5. Beyond the Gates of Fury – 4:04
EP Length: 23:51
(CD Bonus Tracks)
6. The Plains of Silence (2020 Demo feat. Jesse Isadore)
7. Introitus (2016 Demo)
8. Secrets of the Maps (2016 Instrumental Demo)
EP Credits:
• All songs performed by: Vis Mystica
• All songs written by: Connor McCray
• Produced by: Chad Anderson
• Mixed by: Chad Anderson
• Mastered by: Chad Anderson
• EP Artwork by: Cody Bucher
EP Band Lineup:
Connor McCray – Guitar, Bass, Orchestration
Devin Dewyer – Vocals
Dillon Trollope – Drums
About: Lingering in the unknown regions of the galaxy for many years, Vis Mystica has returned to known space to unleash an onslaught of music that has not been seen for a thousand generations: Jedi Metal!
Learn the stories of the ancient masters and their battles against the forces of evil in the tales of Vis Mystica. For fans of: Rhapsody, Blind Guardian, Twilight Force, Symphony X, Wintersun
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“Vis Mystica is a very interesting power metal band from Pennsylvania. Listening to this group is like finding an oasis in the middle of the driest desert. Although one of its main characteristics is that its music is based on the Star Wars universe, it is fair to say that its music shines by itself and it is not for less, since its influences are not found in its local scene, not even in its country.” – Metal-Rules.com
“Offering escapism from everyday life, Vis Mystica transports listeners into a fantastical world of magical powers and epic stories with their Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic inspired Power Metal. Along with taking great influence from other bands, they possess a style that is unique and holds its own in the power metal landscape.” – Bloodynews.ro
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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
Jon Asher – Music Publicist
#.514.581.5780 | jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
Facebook @AsherMediaRelations | Instagram @AsherMedia | Tweet @AsherMedia
(Rockshots Records, Extreme Metal Music, Armstrong MF, Loud As Hell, Metalocalypstick, Decimate MF, Electric Highway Fest, Wacken Metal Battle Canada/USA, Hyperspace MF, Le FestEvil)
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