Tag: prog

0 Streaming Now! Niagara Falls’ VARIUS’ Wildly Diverse EP “Concordance”, EP Stream Premiere via MetalInsider

November 3, 2021
by Asher
· Music News · Varius

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – November 3, 2021

Streaming Now! Niagara Falls’ VARIUS’ Wildly Diverse EP “Concordance”

EP Stream Premiere via MetalInsider

New EP “Concordance” Out November 5th

L-R: Joel Tassillo (Bass) / Joey Scaringi (Vocals) / Vladimir Prokhorov (Drums) / Patrick Forlin (Guitar)
Photo Credit: Britney Goertz

Never one to stay within the constraints of genre definition, Varius have a new EP coming November 5th, and before it officially drops, its full stream is being premiered over on MetalInsider HERE.

“Concordance” is all about both diversity and consistency. Varius was motivated to include four distinct tracks with each one primarily written by a different band member. The result was a naturally diverse EP that can still be considered their most collaborative release to date. They share their thoughts on the record:

“We are very excited to present our new EP, the strongest Varius release to date. The result is an EP defined by both its diversity and its consistency in spirit. We were all very motivated to bring each others’ visions to life, and the tracks came together as some of our heaviest and grooviest to date. Each of the four songs are rooted firmly in their own area of the metal spectrum, and they are as varied lyrically as they are musically. “Concordance” explores themes of battle, demonic magics, psychological challenges, and a bleak look at the future of death. We believe that all types of metal fans, and fans of fantasy and science fiction alike, are sure to find something they like about it.”

“Concordance” is a heavy recording throughout, but the four distinct songs approach the heaviness in different ways. Across the four tracks, the listener can expect to hear the influence of death metal, thrash, progressive, doom, and classic metal with experimental dynamic twists. The EP is as diverse lyrically as it is musically; fans of fiction, fantasy, horror, and humanity will find something that they like in “Concordance”. From the apocalyptic themes you’d expect from Varius in “Gut Shoveler” and “Concordance of the Legionfall” to the more reflective stories of battle in “Golden Crown” and personal struggle through “Lament of Dissonance”, the EP covers a variety of heavy lyric themes that listeners can connect to.

The experimental groove of Varius is recommended for fans of Hypocrisy, Lamb of God, and Dethklok.

“Concordance” will be available on digital music platforms on November 5th.

EP pre-order – https://varius.bandcamp.com

Track Listing:
1. Golden Crown (6:03)
2. Concordance of the Legionfall (4:59)
3. Lament of Dissonance (4:43)
4. Gut Shoveler (5:28)
Digital EP Length: 21:14
Note: Physical CD copies of Concordance will feature a bonus track (previously released digitally – 2019)
5. P.I.S.S. (3:22) (CD Bonus Track)
EP Length (CD version): 24:40

For more info:
Facebook.com/Varius.band
Instagram.com/varius.official
EPK

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“it’s full of dynamic surprises — a song that’s bombastic and brazen, savage and scintillating, mysterious and magnificent — and its name is “Concordance of the Legionfall“.” – No Clean Singing
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0 Prog Duo ATHEMON (ft. ex-Haken) Offer Free Download of Debut Self-Titled Album

October 28, 2021
by Asher
· Athemon · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 28, 2021

Prog Duo ATHEMON (ft. ex-Haken) Offer Free Download of Debut Self-Titled Album

L-R – Athemon Current Line Up | Adriano Ribeiro (Guitar, Vocals) | Tom MacLean (Bass, Production)
Photo Credits: Adriano’s picture: José Simonetti, Tom’s picture: Sunny Dhaliwal

Athemon, a duo featuring Tom MacLean (bassist/producer, To-Mera, ex-Haken) and Adriano Ribeiro (vocalist and guitarist) are offering up to progressive metal fans a FREE download of their debut self-titled album released recently on October 11th.

“Full of dark and enigmatic atmospheres, this is a concept record that is meant to be heard as one long 50-minute track divided into nine parts, which tells a story about self-awareness. This is a creative release that seeks to forge the perfect alloy of darkness and beauty,” adds the band.

The full length can be downloaded for FREE at the following link: Flyathemon.bandcamp.com

The story of Athemon comes together while many musicians were in lockdown during the Covid pandemic and unable to congregate for simple jams or have outlets to perform their music. Using this global pause, two musicians Tom MacLean based in the UK, and Adriano Ribeiro based in Brazil crossed paths online and used the digital world to their advantage to give rise to their new band Athemon.

“Adriano sent me his demo and it gave me goosebumps, so I was keen to get involved,” says MacLean.

From a significant evolution between demos to their final introductory recordings, MacLean and Ribeiro created a bonding friendship over musical interests that created the perfect environment to allow them to evolve and conceive their debut album.

Formed as a gateway to express their art using progressive metal music, the duo invited a special guest drummer from Brazil; Gledson Gonçalves who added his percussionist touch to compliment each one of the nine tracks.

“As nobody goes alone in this world (even being totally alone inside one’s own mind), the songwriting process had a lonely beginning, but a very collaborative end. The beginning of this project was driven by Adriano, but nothing would fit so well if it wasn’t for the amazing connection the three of us have (Adriano, Tom, and our special guest on drums, Gledson),” says MacLean.

The lyrics for the album were written by vocalist/guitarist Adriano Ribeiro and were inspired by thoughts of how confusing reality can be if you are not taking care of your emotional side. “The thin line between what’s real and what’s not is an endless world,” adds Ribeiro.

New fans of Athemon, can expect much more to come from the pair as they already have plans to launch their second album by the end of 2022, which they are currently composing with promising results.

As for the live spectacle of Athemon, for now, the band will let the music flow until the duo can connect from across the Atlantic for their first in-person jam session.

Recommended for fans of Nevermore, Pain of Salvation, Opeth, Gojira, and Mastodon, Athemon‘s self-titled debut is available on Spotify, Apple Music, and all other major digital music platforms.

Track Listing:
1. Perception (3:16)
2. Whispers (5:29)
3. The Glass Hindered Us (3:57)
4. Different From What Was Missing (5:23)
5. Seed of Change (7:25)
6. I Voice of Mine (8:12)
7. Reaching Deepness (6:42)
8. Greatest Understanding (5:54)
9. Birth (4:01)
Album Length: 50:20

Album Credits:
• All songs performed by: Athemon
• All songs written by: Athemon
• Produced by: Tom MacLean
• Mixed by: Tom MacLean @ Twelve Tone Studio
• Mastered by: Tony Lindgren @ Fascination Street Studios
• Album Artwork by: Luigi Quarta

Album Band Line Up:
Adriano Ribeiro (Guitars, Vocals)
Tom MacLean (Bass)
Gledson Gonçalves (session Drums)

More Info:
Athemon.com
Facebook.com/fly.athemon
Instagram.com/fly.athemon
EPK

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0 Rockshots Records Signs Finland’s AMOTH (ft.Ensiferum’s Pekka Montin) For New Album “The Hour Of The Wolf”; Music Video For First Single “The Man Who Watches The World Burn”

October 26, 2021
by Asher
· Amoth (Rockshots Records) · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 26, 2021

Rockshots Records Signs Finland’s AMOTH (ft.Ensiferum’s Pekka Montin) For New Album “The Hour Of The Wolf”

Music Video For First Single “The Man Who Watches The World Burn”

New Album “The Hour Of The Wolf” Out Jan 28, 2022

Rockshots Records is proud to announce their signing of AMOTH for the release of their third album “The Hour of The Wolf” on January 28, 2022.

Amoth is a melodic progressive heavy metal band with progressive elements from Helsinki, Finland. Their upcoming album “The Hour Of The Wolf” is a huge leap forward compared to their previous recordings “Revenge” (2016), “Crossing Over” (2011), “Wounded Faith (EP) (2008).

“This is by far our best album yet! Superior performances from all of the musicians. Much better production and songwriting. It’s not a fast-food album. Some of the songs are quite complex so it takes probably more than one listen to really get into!” comments Amoth guitarist and main songwriter Tomi Ihanamäki.

Amoth’s roots are strongly founded on 80’s heavy metal, but branch out in different directions with elements from progressive rock, thrash, and even jazz brought to the table.

The new album features Pekka Montin of Ensiferum once again as the lead vocalist and for the first time, there are also keyboards on an Amoth recording. Fans can expect insane vocals and virtuoso-like playing from all members of the band. The nine songs are very diverse, taking sudden twists and turns into unexplored territory. Amoth even offers up two Steve Vai / Joe Satriani-style instrumentals on this new full-length with tracks “Wind Serenade Part I” and “Wind Serenade Part II”.

The band is currently streaming the first single “The Man Who Watches The World Burn”, a track loosely based on the Joker character from the Batman movies. It is also the only down-tuned song on the whole album and has a bass solo.

“The world is burning before your very eyes, how do you react? It’s a new world and it’s in chaos and you must adjust to that idea.”

Listen to “The Man Who Watches The World Burn” via its music video on Rockshots Records’ YouTube channel – https://youtu.be/GXAlEnnzfSM

Amoth‘s new album “The Hour of The Wolf” is recommended for fans of Iron Maiden, King Diamond, Testament, Megadeth, Joe Satriani.

CD pre-order – https://bit.ly/TheHourOfTheWolf_CD
Digital pre-save – https://bfan.link/the-hour-of-the-wolf

Track Listing:
1. Alice (4:46)
2. The Man Who Watches The World Burn (6:57)
3. Wounded Faith (4:31)
4. Wind Serenade Part I (2:02)
5. Wind Serenade Part II (5:20)
6. We Own The Night (5:34)
7. It Ain’t Over Yet (3:27)
8. Traces In The Snow (6:26)
9. The Hour of The Wolf (7:27)
Album Length: 46:34

For more info:
Rockshots.eu
Amothband.com
Facebook.com/amothband
Instagram.com/amothband

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0 Rockshots Records – Brazilian Multi-Instrumentalist Lucas Barbosa’s TERRA’s New Video “Sound Of Rain”, Debut Album “Hypercube” Out November 19th

October 25, 2021
by Asher
· EPKs · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 25, 2021

Rockshots Records – Brazilian Multi-Instrumentalist Lucas Barbosa’s TERRA’s New Video “Sound Of Rain”

Debut Album “Hypercube” Out November 19th

Brazilian multi-instrumentalist Lucas Barbosa will be releasing his studio project Terra and its debut album “Hypercube” on November 19th via Rockshots Records.

Today, the third single “Sound of Rain” is revealed with a music video via Rockshots Records’ YouTube channel.

Music Video – https://youtu.be/tLK-ZikGZNw

Digital Stream – https://spoti.fi/3jAiIxJ

Barbosa explains the track:

“Sound Of Rain is a soundtrack for a resting session at the end of a long and tiring journey or just an exhausting day. In every journey, there is a moment when we sit down, take a deep breath and try to make sense of all the learnings, mistakes and lessons we collect along the way. It is part of the learning process and it feeds the creative and constructive loops of any thought or idea we might be forming. Our subconscious does this process automatically during our dreams when we sleep. So, Sound Of Rain talks about owning this process, about Lucid Dreaming, by the sound of pouring water, in a comfortable and warm environment, where we lead the process of making sense of all what we learned so far in our life journeys, what is yet to discover and what path should we take to get to the final goal. In this case, the formation, comprehension and harvesting of the perfect Idea, the one that represents the best version of ourselves, a Hypercube on the top of the mountain. In order to transmit this message, elements of percussion, finger-style classical guitar, exploring harmonic features of the instrument, and organic rhythmics were used, over smooth by dynamic harmonic progression were implemented”

Terra brings a combination of musical, audiovisual and artistic experience that translates the personality and ideas of Brazilian composer and multi-instrumentalist Lucas Barbosa, resulting in a musical journey for those who love music and exploration of the new.

“The idea of Terra was always there, I believe. I have been composing and writing songs since I was 15. I needed a platform to structure and back these songs. This platform should allow me to combine some passions of mine: folk and metal music, traveling and photography. When I was around 20, I came up with the concept of TERRA, a project that would combine all the influences that made the musician and the person I am, in an organic manner, which would allow me to tell my stories of discoveries and exploration, including my experiences traveling through Brazil and throughout the world. It took about 10 years to actually find the environment and opportunity to bring this idea to life by recording Hypercube and kick-starting this journey.” comments Barbosa.

Terra’s first record is the outcome of the combination of elements put together to tell a story of a journey of growth and self-discovery, that frankly, could be the tale of every human being at some point in their lives. Ten songs are there to paint a picture of the artist’s personality and explore each step of the way with the respective deserved depth. Although heavy metal is the glue that unites all the musical nuances presented on this album, “Hypercube” does not shy away from a rich range of influences such as American Bluegrass, Country Music, Classic Rock, Classical Music, Western Folk, traditional Brazilian, Caipira and Sertanejo music along with passages of Samba, Capoeira, Bossa Nova and many others to convey its message. Lucas Barbosa was responsible for playing almost all instruments, including rhythm and lead guitars in all their forms (electric, classical, 6 string, 12 string), bass, Brazilian guitar (or Viola Caipira), Andean guitar (or Charango), Pan flute (Andean flute), harmonica, percussions and piano, in addition to performing all of the vocals in the songs.

Terra‘s debut album “Hypercube” is due out November 19, 2021.
CD Pre-Order: https://bit.ly/HypercubeCD
Digital Pre-Save: https://bfan.link/hypercube

Music Video – Let It Burn – https://youtu.be/OZhRNaqerkQ
Lyric Video – Sign My Name – https://youtu.be/6MZ1mf55tgM

Track Listing:
1. Let It Burn (4:18)
2. Always Resist (4:35)
3. Sign My Name (6:31)
4. Down The Road (4:03)
5. Shivers and Snow (4:56)
6. Sound of Rain (5:45)
7. Against The Wind (10:29)
8. Montaria (9:49)
9. Hypercube (8:54)
10. Our Time Is Now (6:19)
Album Length: 1:05:44

Album Credits:
All songs & Lyrics written by Lucas Barbosa
All Instruments, except drums, played by Lucas Barbosa, including Vocals, Guitars, Bass guitars, 6-string and 12-string Acoustic Guitars, Brazilian Guitar, Andean Guitar, Pan Flutes, Harmonicas, Piano and Percussions
Drums recorded by Alex Cristopher
Produced, Engineered, Mixed and Mastered by Thiago Bianchi at Fusão Studios in São Paulo, Brazil.
Cover art Concept by Lucas Barbosa
Art by Carlos Fidelis

More info:
Rockshots.eu
Facebook.com/TerraLucasBarbosa
Instagram.com/terramusictrip
Youtube

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0 Rockshots Records – Out Now! VENUS SYNDROME’s New Album “Cannibal Star”

October 22, 2021
by Asher
· Music News · Venus Syndrome (Rockshots Records)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 22, 2021

Rockshots Records – Out Now! VENUS SYNDROME’s New Album “Cannibal Star”

Venus Syndrome‘s sophomore album “Cannibal Star” is out now as of October 22nd via Rockshots Records. For its release day, the band is sharing a visualizer for their third single “Dark Side Of The Sun” – https://youtu.be/vYlYyNamGvU

“This song is more in a prog metal feeling. He’s a man who dreams of living on another planet without the human race. He can’t stay with the human race anymore…” adds the band.

Formed originally as a Dream Theater cover band under the moniker MetroTheater, it wasn’t too soon after that drummer Thibaud Pontet (Eternal Flight), guitarist Ayman Mokdad (Alien Encounters), keyboardist Rodolfo Lima Sproesser (Goiana, Tahra, Heretic, Floyd Rose cover Pink Floyd), bassist Florian Guidat and vocalist Emmanuelson (Ellipsis, Rising Steel, Hydroflame) were keen to create something more.

It came under the suggestion of main composer and guitarist Ayman Mokdad to the rest of the band that he had written original material inspired by the concept of the “Venus Syndrome”, in which the Earth undergoes runaway warming and the oceans boil off and is viewed as the greatest threat to humanity’s existence (more info here).

From those lyrical and musical ideals, Venus Syndrome offered up their self-titled debut album during April 2020 all while being an international collaboration between musicians on two sides of the globe. Rodolfo Lima Sproesser is based in Brazilian while the rest of the group is in France.

Carefully crafting power melodies, intricate hard rocking rhythms and soaring vocals inspired by the likes of Russell Allen (Symphony X), Warrel Dane (Nevermore) and Ray Adler (Fates Warning), the band is ready to introduce their next recording and the sophomore full-length “Cannibal Star”.

Recruiting Simone Mularoni (Domination Studio, Ultra-Violence, T/L Rhapsody, Eternal Idol, Eldritch, Elvenking) for mixing and mastering, the new album is a more mature production compared to their self-recorded effort. On “Cannibal Star”, Venus Syndrome showcases eleven tracks for fans to not just enjoy its melodic progressive metal groove, but also go beyond the listening experience and understand the message behind their music.

“Humanity will disappear if each one of us, each individual do not contribute to safeguarding it. Art, and particularly music is a healer and can help us reach the target and build something strong for our kids and their kids hopefully.” says guitarist and composer Ayman Mokdad.

The band decided on the tracks not just on record, but how they would be best performed for a memorable live experience and the importance of its messaging for saving our planet and humanity.

“There’s an amazing live show that goes with these songs, that’s why there is an instrumental ouverture, an instrumental interlude, and an ending part on the song “Contaminate Me” that we can play with the audience for several minutes. They can expect all the energy and power of the universe. We want them to sing our songs long after the show.”

“Cannibal Star” is available from Rockshots Records at the following links:

Album CD – https://bit.ly/CannibalStar_DIGICD
DIGITAL Stream or Download – https://bfan.link/cannibal-star

Videos:
“Sideral Groove” – https://youtu.be/Jj2gQhSmEcI
“Sun Inside Me” – https://youtu.be/lfvxNoW15M0

Track Listing:
1. Ouverture 2040 (2:41)
2. Sideral Groove (5:33)
3. Sun Inside Me (4:53)
4. Dark Side of The Sun (4:07)
5. Golden Mind (4:37)
6. Empire of The End (4:12)
7. Cannibal Star (3:11)
8. Breaking The Black Stars (4:23)
9. Tunnel of Light (3:31)
10. Like A Monster (4:08)
11. Contaminate Me (4:40)
Album Length: 46:01

For more info:
Venus-syndrome.monsite-orange.fr/index.html
Facebook.com/thevenussyndrome

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0 Montreal’s NOVA SPEI New Music Video “Assez” Off Upcoming Album “Sequentis” Out November 12 via Bam&Co-Heavy

October 15, 2021
by Asher
· Music News · Nova Spei (Bam&Co. Heavy)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 15, 2021

Montreal’s NOVA SPEI New Music Video “Assez” Off Upcoming Album “Sequentis”

New Album “Sequentis” Out November 12 via Bam&Co-Heavy

L-R – Nicolas Dumais (Bass/BackVocal) | Julien De Carufel (Drums) | Dany Duplessis (Singer/Screamer)
Stéphane Filion (Lead Guitarist) | Dany Soucy (Rhythm Guitarist/Ambiant Lead)
Photo Credit – Claude Prud’Homme – Studio-017

Nova Spei has a second single “Assez” coming out, complete with a new music video. This is following the first unveiled track “Qui Sème Le Vent”, which was well-received by fans and media. Having been out of the scene for many years, Nova Spei came together to fill the gap with their unique blend of groovy, djenty and progressive metal.

With each of the twelve songs on the album, Nova Spei tries to give the listener something to reflect on, basing their lyrics on common events that people experience throughout their lives. The songs are high-energy and ready for live performance as soon as it is possible to do so. They explain the single and the album in their own words:

“Assez denounces those who use a cause to embellish their images but who do not do what they advocate. The first album didn’t have the cohesion that this one has. For “Sequentis” we really work together, combine all our influences, and give our best to each part of the song.”

Nova Spei was started by Dany Soucy who is the main songwriter for the band, with Dany Duplessis doing the majority of lyric writing, they ultimately work together collaboratively with each member adding their own touch on the final product.

Those who are intrigued by this release won’t have to wait too long for a follow-up, as the band is already talking about the next album.

Accessible and thoughtful, Nova Spei caters to a wide assortment of listeners, especially fans of Gojira, Deftones, and Tesseract.

The music video for “Assez” can be watched and heard at https://youtu.be/K1gm_Z0KCB0

“Sequentis” is due out November 12, 2021 via Quebec label Bam&Co-Heavy. The album was written and produced by Nova Spei plus mixed and mastered by Anthony Chognard along with the album artwork done by Filip Ivanovic.

Album pre-order – https://novaspei.bandcamp.com/album/sequentis

Music Video – “Qui Sème Le Vent” – https://youtu.be/F8o8o9QYv70

Track Listing:
1. Animal (3:36)
2. Génération Perdue (3:55)
3. Assez (3:25)
4. La Proie (5:07)
5. Sorcière (3:40)
6. Digitalisé (3:50)
7. Nouvel Espoir (4:07)
8. Damné (3:32)
9. Qui Sème Le Vent (3:40)
10. Tête Dure (3:26)
11. Mal Incarné (4:26)
12. Démocratie Bafouée (3:39)
Album Length: 46:26

Album and Live Band Line Up:
Dany Soucy (Rhythm Guitarist / Founder)
Dany Duplessis (Singer/Screamer)
Julien De Carufel (Drums)
Nicolas Dumais (Bass/Back Vocal)
Stéphane Filion (Lead Guitarist)

For more info:
NovaSpei.com
Facebook.com/NovaSpei
Twitter.com/NovaSpeiBand
Instagram.com/novaspei
EPK

About:
NOVA SPEI, is a Francophone progressive metal band from Montreal Quebec. They were formed in 2012 by Dany Soucy (guitar) (Dook, Legion) and in 2014, Nicolas Dumais (bass) and Dany Duplessis (vocals) joined the lineup. Stéphane Filion (guitar) joined the band in August 2018 while Julien De Carufel (drums) arrived in August 2021.

In 2014, Nicolas Dumais (bass) and Dany Duplessis (vocals. Stéphane Filion (guitar) joined the formation in August 2018 while Julien De Carufel (drums) arrived in August 2021.

The band is a heavy sound coming from the guitar and the drums reminiscent of Deftones, Meshuggah and Tesseract. Vocals are influenced by Killswitch Engage, Staind, and Breaking Benjamin. The progressive side on the bass is inspired by Dream Theater and Porcupine Tree.

Their rhythms depict texts that leave room for reflection. A reflective metal with a Djent flavor.

They presented their first album “Éponyme” 2017. In 2019, they were tour support for Anonmyus’ 30th anniversary Quebec tour of the same group, which added to their 50 date tour to promote the debut album.

The production and direction of their first full length were done in the band’s home studio in Champlain, QC, and it was mixed/produced/mastered in France by Anthony Chognard (Smash Hit Combo, CHSprod). Their lead single “The Man with 1000 Smiles” is in constant rotation on Quebec RadioX 98.1FM and their song “Ma Muse” can be heard during the Canadiens hockey games at the Centre Bell in Montreal.

2019 marked the beginning of the recording of their second album, which is entitled “Sequentis”, which will be released on November 12, 2021 via label Bam & Co Heavy.

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“Une pièce qui a tout ce qui faut pour devenir un classique du métal québécois. Des phrases percutantes et pleine de sens sur une musique lourde à souhait.” – Ondes Chocs

“Nova Spei : Nouvel espoir sur la scène métallique au Québec” – Voir

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0 Rockshots Records – HOLLOW New Video “Every Drop of My Blood” Off Upcoming Album “Tower” Out Nov 26th

October 15, 2021
by Asher
· HOLLOW - ROCKSHOTS RECORDS · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 15, 2021

Rockshots Records – HOLLOW New Video “Every Drop of My Blood” Off Upcoming Album “Tower”

New Album “Tower” Out November 26th

HOLLOW, lead by Andreas Stoltz (ex-Binary Creed) will be releasing the new album “Tower” on November 26th via Rockshots Records. The fourth full-length from the Swedish power prog act follows 2019’s “Between Eternities of Darkness”, which marked the band’s return after a 20-year hiatus since unleashing the 1999 album “Architects of The Mind” via Nuclear Blast Records.

Today, HOLLOW presents their second single “Every Drop of My Blood”, a fast-paced track about social isolation. Stoltz explains further:

“This one has been re-written a few times before reaching completion. I couldn’t figure out what to do with the vocals on the chorus, to begin with. There’s this simple, straightforward guitar melody that I wanted to keep, but it kind of collided with most of my vocal ideas. But finally, it clicked with the turn-taking of the lead and the backing vocals.”

Watch the video for “Every Drop of My Blood” at https://youtu.be/3pNBXUwrn2k

Digital Stream – https://spoti.fi/3aC7OCN

Featuring 10 tracks, “Tower” is a story album best listened to as a whole, which tells a tale of transformation with its blend of progressive metal/rock, power, melodic death and thrash elements. Andrea Stoltz is accompanied by drummer Stalder Zantos who also appeared on “Between Eternities of Darkness”.

“Working with Stalder Zantos has been a more continuous element in writing the material for Tower than on Between Eternities of Darkness and this has definitely influenced the outcome as has contributed more on this album than on the previous one,“ adds Stoltz.

On HOLLOW‘s “Architect of the Mind” artificial intelligence and creation was the topic, on “Between Eternities of Darkness” parenthood and tragedy and for “Tower” the concept of inner and outer freedom is explored. It’s also about belonging and transcendence and Stoltz hopes these are things that most people can relate to.

“The relating bit is important, since art – regardless of form – is a meeting of emotions and ideas. It needs to find something to resonate within the person who takes part in it. When asked, I find it hard to describe the music, but it’s metal. It has distorted guitars, double bass drums and harks back to bands like Judas Priest and Queensryche. But there is also quite a bit of contemporary metal on Tower. Since this is a concept album with the ambition of conveying a story, listening to it as a whole is encouraged. I hope you can find something that resonates with you on it. Hopefully, HOLLOW’s fans will be able to trace today’s music back to Modern Cathedral and Architect of the Mind. I’ve made an effort to keep it as straightforward and simple as possible. I think most fans will have no trouble recognizing it as HOLLOW.” comments Stoltz.

“Tower” is due out November 26th, 2021 via Rockshots Records.

Album Pre-save – https://bfan.link/the-tower
CD pre-order – https://bit.ly/hollow_cd

Visualizer “The Tower” at https://youtu.be/dlExXc_b0wc

Track Listing:
1. Birth (3:45)
2. The Tower (3:25)
3. Guardian (3:49)
4. The Waiting Is Over (3:26)
5. Destroyer of Worlds (3:38)
6. Every Drop of My Blood (3:58)
7. Sunrise (3:29)
8. A Home Forgotten (3:30)
9. Nation of Man (3:42)
10. Wander On (3:39)
Album Length: 36:24

For more info:
Roc kshots.eu
Facebook.com/hollowsweden
Instagram.com/hollowsweden
Twitter.com/hollowsweden

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Jon Asher – Music Publicist
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0 Niagara Falls’ VARIUS Unveils “Lament of Dissonance” Off Forthcoming “Concordance”

October 14, 2021
by Asher
· Music News · Varius

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 14, 2021

Niagara Falls’ VARIUS Unveils “Lament of Dissonance” Off Forthcoming “Concordance”

Track Premiere via Bravewords

New EP “Concordance” Out November 5th

L-R: Joel Tassillo (Bass) / Joey Scaringi (Vocals) / Vladimir Prokhorov (Drums) / Patrick Forlin (Guitar)
Photo Credit: Britney Goertz

Hailing from Niagara Falls, Canada, Varius brings forth a new EP “Concordance” that aims to challenge genre boundaries, more so than any of their previous releases. The second single “Lament of Dissonance” can now be enjoyed with a visualizer video currently being premiered over at Bravewords HERE.

“Lament of Dissonance” balances between a relatively straightforward groove track and an experimental piece. The song begins with melodic guitars before descending into a crushing groove riff in the verses. The band explains further:

“The track came about in a different way for us, originating from a piano piece that our drummer, Vlad, had written. We worked together to rearrange the melodies and other parts for guitar and bass, adding more details and riffs along the way until the song took on its own identity. It became one of the groovier, more straightforward tracks on the EP, and easily represents the heaviness of this album. We worked together lyrically as well, telling the story of a genius composer cracking under the pressure of expectations from their audience, before channeling their doubt into a masterpiece. To top it off, the end of the song has a certain twist that keeps with the experimental tradition of Varius, and it stands out to us as a special track.”

While the song takes a personal perspective from this individual and describes the burden of living up to the demands of a hungry audience, Varius embraces the stage, aiming for tightness and consistency in our individual parts, as well as our tempo and groove as a band. One area where they really stand out is with frontman, Joey Scaringi, a local FM radio host and talented public speaker, who has a great personality for a frontman with his energetic stage presence. Passion and dedication have provided them opportunities such as sharing the stage with bands like Beyond Creation and Ninjaspy.

The progressive, melodic death metal of Varius is suitable for anyone with an open mind, especially those who enjoy Children of Bodom, Hypocrisy, and Lamb of God.

“Concordance” comes out on November 5, 2021

Watch the EP trailer at the following link: https://youtu.be/z8o8HaRX0Gg

For more info:
Facebook.com/Varius.band
Instagram.com/varius.official
EPK

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Jon Asher – Music Publicist
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0 Rockshots Records – VENUS SYNDROME New Music Video “Sun Inside Me”, New Album “Cannibal Star” Due Out October 22, 2021

October 8, 2021
by Asher
· Music News · Venus Syndrome (Rockshots Records)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 8, 2021

For fans of Dream Theater, Pagan’s Mind, Sons of Apollo, Haken, Symphony X, King’s X

Rockshots Records – VENUS SYNDROME New Music Video “Sun Inside Me”

New Album “Cannibal Star” Due Out October 22, 2021

Venus Syndrome will be releasing their sophomore album “Cannibal Star” on October 22nd, via Rockshots Records.

In preview to its release, the progressive metal group is sharing their second single “Sun Inside Me” with a new music video, which can be viewed at the following link – https://youtu.be/lfvxNoW15M0 along with Spotify for playlist add – https://spoti.fi/3a00DUx

“This tune is very original for Venus Syndrome with low vocals and a very groovy chorus, the starting riff is very powerful, a space musical break, and a truly inspired guitar solo. It’s a philosophical song and at the same time quite raw which speaks of passionate people…,” adds the band.

The band decided on the tracks not just on record, but how they would be best performed for a memorable live experience and the importance of its messaging for saving our planet and humanity.

Album pre-save – https://bfan.link/cannibal-star

First single “Sideral Groove” at the following links:

Lyric Video – https://youtu.be/Jj2gQhSmEcI
Digital pre-save – https://bfan.link/sideral-groove

Track Listing:
1. Ouverture 2040 (2:41)
2. Dark Side of The Sun (4:07)
3. Sideral Groove (5:33)
4. Sun Inside Me (4:53)
5. Golden Mind (4:37)
6. Empire of The End (4:12)
7. Cannibal Star (3:11)
8. Breaking The Black Stars (4:23)
9. Tunnel of Light (3:31)
10. Like A Monster (4:08)
11. Contaminate Me (4:40)
Album Length: 46:01

For more info:
Venus-syndrome.monsite-orange.fr/index.html
Facebook.com/thevenussyndrome

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

Jon Asher – Music Publicist
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jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
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0 Shumaun Shares Thomas Lang’s Drum Playthrough “Invincible” Off “Memories & Intuition”, Playthrough Premiere via GearGods

September 30, 2021
by Asher
· Music News · Shumaun

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – September 30, 2021

Shumaun Shares Thomas Lang’s Drum Playthrough “Invincible” Off “Memories & Intuition”

Playthrough Premiere via GearGods

Featuring An All-Star Lineup of Drummers
Thomas Lang (Peter Gabriel, Paul Gilbert),
Atma Anur (Jason Becker, Tony Macalpine),
Mark Zonder (Fates Warning, Warlord),
Leo Margarit (Pain of Salvation), and Chris DeChiara

Shumaun (L to R) Jose Mora: Bass, Farhad Hossain: Vocals, Guitar, Keys, Tyler Kim: Guitar

Progressive rock band Shumaun recently released their new album “Memories & Intuition” earlier this September. For the recording, the band recruited an all-star lineup of drummers that included Thomas Lang (Peter Gabriel, Paul Gilbert), Atma Anur (Jason Becker, Tony Macalpine), Mark Zonder (Fates Warning, Warlord), Leo Margarit (Pain of Salvation), and Chris DeChiara.

Today, in support of the full-length, Shumaun is releasing Thomas Lang’s playthrough video for the track “Invincible,” which is being premiered on GearGods HERE.

“It truly is an honor for someone like Thomas Lang to be on Shumaun’s latest record. He was able to take our songs to another level with his creative approach to drumming. All of us are big fans,” adds vocalist/guitarist Farhad Hossain.

“Memories & Intuition” is Shumaun‘s third album. The band wants average music fans to be able to feel a connection to the melodies and lyrics. Expecting that everyone’s listening experience will be different, they just want the honesty and integrity of the music to resonate with listeners in whatever shape or form that may be. Shumaun provides an accessible approach to modern progressive rock, with ambitious melodies and catchy harmonies. The new full length is also more song-oriented than the previous two albums, but maintains the progressive twists and turns the band is known for. They can be appreciated by a wide spectrum of rock and metal enthusiasts. “Memories & Intuition” is lyrically thematic, but the songs were written to be stand-alone singles, as Farhad Hossain (vocals/guitar/keys) explains:

“Even though the album is very singles based, it’s meant to be listened to in sequence. There is a natural flow between the songs and lyrics that almost make it feel conceptual. The album theme ties to loss, the current human condition, personal relationships, and the battle of the self.”

Shumaun is recommended for fans of Rush, Fates Warning, and TOOL.

“Memories & Intuition” is available on digital platforms Shumaun.bandcamp.com, Spotify, Apple Music.

Music Video – Memories of Water – https://youtu.be/kxeJGQfy1ww
Lyric Video – Under The Sun – https://youtu.be/3pPkZ8U5c60
Lyric Video – Intuition Underground – https://youtu.be/991wSVct4Ec

Track Listing:
1. A Subtle Invocation (3:20)
2. Prisoners (3:51)
3. Memories of Water (3:33)
4. Jabriel’s Song (5:59)
5. Invincible (7:22)
6. Under the Sun (5:06)
7. The Pursuit of Happiness (5:11)
8. Tides (4:28)
9. Intuition Underground (4:39)
10. Breathing Light (9:00)
11. A Planetary Shift (5:40)
12. The Day We Said Goodbye (5:18)
Album Length: 1:03:26

Album Band Line Up:
Farhad Hossain – Vocals, Guitars, Keyboards
Jose Mora – Bass
Tyler Kim – Guitars
Drums: Thomas Lang (Tracks 2, 5, 9, 10)
Drums: Mark Zonder (Tracks 1, 3)
Drums: Atma Anur (Tracks 4, 7)
Drums: Leo Margarit (Tracks 6, 8)
Drums: Chris DeChiara (Track 11)
Additional keyboards on “Tides” by Bill Whitney

For more info:
Shumaun.com
Facebook.com/shumaun
Instagram.com/zinkferd
Twitter.com/shumaun
EPK

About:
Shumaun initially started as a solo project by Farhad Hossain (ex singer/guitarist/keyboardist of Iris Divine). After recording a few demos, he decided to recruit a few friends to help build the project into a full-fledged collaborative band. Through the course of recording their self-titled debut album, Shumaun went through a period of tribulation while securing a drummer. Original drummer Tanvir Tomal (ex Iris Divine) had to leave for professional obligations in the middle of the recording sessions and was later replaced with Waqar Khan (Entity Paradigm), who is also well known for his work with the platinum-selling Ali Azmat of the EMI recording artist Junoon (one of South Asia’s most successful rock bands). Waqar remained with the band long enough to record a few tracks on the debut record as well as appear live for some of the earlier shows. Travis Orbin (Darkest Hour, Periphery), Mark Zonder (Fates Warning, Warlord) recorded the remaining drums on the debut record that was released in the fall of 2015. Tanvir has since returned to the band as the live drummer.

2019 saw the band releasing their sophomore album “One Day Closer to Yesterday.” The album was once again mixed by Brett Caldas-Lima at Tower Studio in France. The album was rawer and heavier, but the melodies and vocals were never compromised. It includes the bombastic prog metal single “Go.”

2021 sees Shumaun releasing their third album “Memories & Intuition,” which features the amazing drumming of legends such as Thomas Lang (Peter Gabrie l, Paul Gilbert), Atma Anur (Jason Becker, Tony Macalpine), Mark Zonder (Fates Warning, Warlord), and Leo Margarit (Pain of Salvation). Shumaun once again tapped Brett Caldas-Lima and Tower Studio for mixing and mastering. The album is their most melodic to date and consists of their single “Memories of Water.”

The Shumaun sound is shaped by the soaring vocals and lead guitar work of Farhad Hossain, the pounding melodic bass lines of Jose Mora, and the subtle guitar nuances of Tyler Kim. The band has received many accolades, and have made it onto several “album of the year” lists from sites such as Progressive Music Planet, Decibel Geek, and Metal Asylum etc. The band also won The Deli Magazine’s “Best of 2015” for Washington DC bands, and have been featured on Revolver Magazine, and Decibel Magazine.

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ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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

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