Tag: prog

0 Fractal Cypher – Prelude To An Impending Outcome (EP) (2018)

October 5, 2018
by Asher
· EPKs · Fractal Cypher

Fractal Cypher – Prelude To An Impending Outcome (EP) (2018)

Release Date: November 8, 2018

Album Pre-Order on iTunes | Google Play | CD Baby

For fans of Symphony X, Dream Theater, Scar Symmetry, Sonata Arctica, Kamelot

#5 on VOIR (Montreal weekly) Top 2016 Quebec Artists for debut album “The Human Paradox”

“an enormously talented band” – Progressive Music Planet

“Montreal has another very hot iron in the fire of metal” – Metal Observer

“their style is tailor made to resonate with fans of Dream Theater and Symphony X, but without the thick layer of pretentiousness that follows the former around.” – Sorrow Eternal

“If you’ve ever wanted a hearty progressive mix of old and new, then look no further. Imagine Dream Theater and Pagan’s Mind thrown into a melting pot and then given a modern makeover. Do you like the sound of that? I do, which is why I like Fractal Cypher.” – Wonderbox Metal

“La production se veut impeccable, les compositions sont copieuses au niveau des arrangements et Fractal Cypher possède cette qualité qui se veut bien importante pour le genre : allier la complexité musicale avec des mouvements sonores accrocheurs.” – Voir

“Montréal Quintet Fractal Cypher aren’t one of those bands you can easily categorise. Mixing a blend of Power Metal in the vein of Sonata Arctica and Avantasia, but with an aggressive, progressive and technical edge that would sit comfortably along-side the likes of Devin Townsend or Scar Symmetry. Much like the title of their album ‘The Human Paradox’, the mixing of these styles would seem somewhat paradoxical, however they are successfully and seamlessly blended to work cohesively with one another… they’re definitely one to keep an eye on, that’s for sure.” – Loud Stuff

Line Up From L to R : Steven Cope (Drums), Tommy Fradette (Bass), Simon Lavoie (Vocals), Ludovick Daoust (Keyboards), Vincent Bruneau (Guitars)

Photo Credits : Eric Sanchez Photography

SHORT BIO:

Fractal Cypher exists to captivate audiences with progressive instrumentals that cut through the mesmerizing vocals and provide a new perspective on each listen. Straight out of the heart of Canada’s metal scene, these Montreal metallers constantly shift their compositions with seamless transitions and theatrical interludes to keep audiences on their toes.

Since 2014, Simon Lavoie (vocals), Ludovick Daoust (keyboard), Vincent Bruneau (guitar), Tommy Fradette (bass) and Steven Cope (drums) have been committed to a constant evolution; the powerful quintet is just as versatile in their music as they are in their musical interests, darting between djent and classic rock whilst anchoring on a power and death metalcore.

Their debut album ‘The Human Paradox’ was released in September of 2016, with the follow-up EP ‘Prelude To An Impending Outcome’ slated to be revealed in November of 2018. If reception to the previous album is any indication of the talents of Fractal Cypher, this next release is sure to be a masterwork.

LONG BIO:

Since 2014, ex-Far From Reality members Simon Lavoie (vocals), Ludovick Daoust (keyboard), and Vincent Bruneau (guitar) have dedicated themselves to Fractal Cypher and with the addition of Tommy Fradette on bass and Steven Cope on drums, they are set to bring their message to the metal world.

Quoted as calling their music puzzling, the band follows a theme that starts with their band name, Bruneau elaborates: “Fractal is a term employed most of the time to describe a geometric shape or a design. It’s a geometric form or object that constantly evolves from its initial shape. Cypher means a secret method of writing to transmit a message or a code. We thought it would be cool to put the two concepts together, which means a repeating secret code that constantly evolves on itself, so it’s finally a message that can never be found.”

Committed to a constant evolution, the powerful quintet is just as versatile in their music as they are in their musical interests, darting between djent and classic rock whilst anchoring on a power and death metalcore. Each song acts of its own volition almost taking control of the members and shaping a personality and energy, not unlike a living entity. Ludovick is at the helm of songwriting; calculating and unlocking each melody before Lavoie becomes the voice for each piece.

Their debut album ‘The Human Paradox’ produced by Chris Donaldson (Cryptopsy, The Agonist, Beyond Creation, Neuraxis) was released in September of 2016, with the follow up EP ‘Prelude To An Impending Outcome’ (also produced by Donaldson) slated to be revealed in November of 2018. If reception to the previous album is any indication of the talents of Fractal Cypher, this next release is sure to be a masterwork.

1. Coming Back To Life
2. The Grandeur Of It All
3. From The Above And To The Stars
4. Red Lady

All songs performed by: Fractal Cypher
All songs were written by: Music By Ludovick Daoust, Lyrics by Simon Lavoie and Ludovick Daoust
Produced by: Ludovick Daoust and Christian Donaldson
Mixed and mastered by: Christian Donaldson
Album Artwork by: Silent Q Desing

Album Line Up:

Vincent Bruneau (Guitars)

Ludovick Daoust (Keyboards)

Simon Lavoie (Vocal)

Tommy Fradette (Bass)

Steven Cope (Drums)

Live Line Up:

Vincent Bruneau (Guitars)

Ludovick Daoust (Keyboards)

Simon Lavoie (Vocal)

Tommy Fradette (Bass)

Steven Cope (Drums)

Yoan Marier-Proulx (live session guitarist)

Shared stage with: Hammerfall, The Agonist, Heaven’s Cry, Gone In April, Angra, The Last Scattering, Bookakee, Decadawn, Pyramid Theorem, Cydemind, Universe Effects.

Festivals and Tours

March 2018 , Québec mini tour with Gone In April (members of Quo Vadis and Beyond Creation)
FME fest Rouyn Noranda – March 2018

Discography
Prelude To An Impending Outcome (EP) (2018)
The Human Paradox– Full length (LP) (2016)

0 Vancouver Alt-Prog KOSM Announce Debut Album “Cosmonaut” Coming November 2018

September 27, 2018
by Asher
· KOSM · Music News

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – September 27, 2018

For fans of Tool, Mastodon, Gojira, The Agonist, Periphery, A Perfect Circle

Vancouver Alt-Prog KOSM Announce Debut Album “Cosmonaut” Coming November 2018

L-R – Jessie Grace – Vocals, Mike Slater – Guitar, Erik Leonhard – Guitar, Michael ‘Pastrami’ Mastracci – Bass, Sterling Paterson – Drums

Photo credit – Justin Forster

Vancouver progressive metal band KOSM is proud to announce they will be releasing their debut album “Cosmonaut” on November 16th, 2018. Combining influences from Tool, Mastodon, The Agonist, Gojira and A Perfect Circle; their sound is dynamic and unquestionably lethal. Since their induction in 2016, they have been making their mark in Vancouver’s metal scene and beyond with cover videos, and most recently with two singles “Ancient Heart” and “Space Mead”. “Cosmonaut” is an LP loosely based on themes from the H.P. Lovecraft and other with each song meant to walk the listener through a story from beginning to end. With even more material in the world and future albums planned, KOSM summons you to join them on this journey full of experimental and progressive metal.

The band explains:

“Cosmonaut is a concept album loosely based on the weird-fiction of HP Lovecraft, and borrowing concepts from the science-fiction of Frank Herbert, and Roger Zelazny. The album follows a cosmonaut on a cosmic journey through time and space; from the earthly confines of mortal life, to ascendancy as an immaterial and omnipotent being. The cosmonaut’s journey is essentially symbolic, serving as a commentary on the human experience: a journey from confusion and anger, to transcendence and self-understanding.”

KOSM’s current singles “Ancient Heart” and “Space Mead” are available on Bandcamp, iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, Google Play.

For those in the Vancouver area, KOSM will be hosting their CD release concert at Pub 340 on November 17th with local support from OmnisighT, Truent, and Opus Arise. Event info here.

Ancient Heart (Music Video) – https://youtu.be/6G8arglKdxc

Space Mead (Band Playthrough) – https://youtu.be/WjzBQvyXudI

Blood And Thunder (Mastodon cover) – https://youtu.be/o-sBO6oQXDY

Toxicity (S.O.A.D cover) – https://youtu.be/pr8HvF5QwLU

Track Listing:
1. Space Mead (6:07)
2. Cosmonaut (5:27)
3. Colossus (6:38)
4. Wolves Upon The Throne (5:46)
5. The Esoteric Order (6:23)
6. Farseer (6:40)
7. Ancient Heart (5:23)
8. Fiefdom In The Sky (2:15)
9. Omnipresence (4:36)
10. Monarch (7:16)
11. Umbrakinesis (5:23)
12. Wza – Y’ei (4:20)
Album Length: 1:06:21

KOSM is:
Erik Leonhard – Guitar
Mike Slater – Guitar
Jessie Grace – Vocals
Sterling Paterson – Drums
Michael Mastracci – Bass

For more info:
https://kosmband.com
https://www.facebook.com/kosmofficialband
https://twitter.com/officialkosm
https://www.instagram.com/kosmofficial
EPK – https://wp.me/pciNW-bus

– 30 –

“The song (Ancient Heart) itself, which swings between some appetizingly heavy progressive riffs and aggressive growls and more melodic moments (with clean singing behind them). A tough band to place in that regard, but one certainly worth seeking out as they continue to expand their sound.” – DeadRhetoric

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0 Montreal’s FRACTAL CYPHER Unveil Track Listing & Artwork For “Prelude To An Impending Outcome”

September 25, 2018
by Asher
· Fractal Cypher · Music News

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – September 25, 2018

For fans of Symphony X, Dream Theater, Scar Symmetry, Sonata Arctica, Kamelot

Montreal’s FRACTAL CYPHER Unveil Track Listing & Artwork For “Prelude To An Impending Outcome”

New Mini-Album Promises A “Roller Coaster of Genres”

Montreal prog quartet FRACTAL CYPHER are getting ready to release their mini-album “Prelude To An Impending Outcome” in November and have just unveiled the artwork and the track listing. This 4 song mini-album promises to be a roller coaster of genres across completely different sounding songs with intimate lyrics influenced by personal experiences.

“Prelude To An Impending Outcome is a mini album of 4 songs that are completely different from one to another to create a maximum roller coaster effect and make it non linear and interesting to listen to. The clash of style is more important and more obvious than our previous album, but the songs have gained in maturity in term of songwriting and sound. The vibe of this album is really more intimate, due to the lyrics and the overall ambiance/universe of the songs. The melodic side of the band is still really present, offering catchy vocal lines and outstanding solos all over the songs.” – FRACTAL CYPHER

Each track has a different prominent genre influence from power ballad, blues, djent and jazz with the band’s heavy and melodic base as an anchor. The album artwork was done by Silent Q Design out of Montreal and foreshadows the moody and existential prog metal that lies within. Although this album is more intimate with different textures and influences, the reception to its predecessor should be a prime indication of the talents of FRACTAL CYPHER; this next release is sure to be a masterwork.

Track Listing:
1. Coming Back To Life (10:13)
2. The Grandeur Of It All (6:52)
3. From The Above And To The Stars (8:04)
4. Red Lady (9:30)
Mini-Album Length: 34:30

“Prelude To An Impending Outcome” will be self released on November 8th 2018.

For more info:
https://www.facebook.com/fractalcypher
https://twitter.com/FractalCypher
https://www.instagram.com/fractalcypherofficial
Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/ycb7bspd

BIO:

Their debut album ‘The Human Paradox’ was released in September of 2016, with the follow up mini-album ‘Prelude To An Impending Outcome’ slated to be revealed in November of 2018.

– 30 –

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0 EPK – Protosequence – Biophagous (EP) (2017)

May 18, 2017
by Asher
· Protosequence

Protosequence – Biophagous (EP)

For Fans of Abiotic, early- Fallujah, The Faceless

Release Date: August 18, 2017

Contacts: Manager – Cara Ashbey – cara@odessamusicmgmt.com

Publicist – Jon Asher – ashermedia(@)gmail.com

Download Band Press Photo | Download EP Cover | Download EP Lyrics

“Edmonton’s Protosequence perform an agile balancing act on the new song “Shepherd” we’re bringing you from their forthcoming EP, Biophagus, a high-wire performance that deftly straddles a stylistic divide without ever losing their path forward.” No Clean Singing

“In the vein of bands like All Shall Perish & Born of Osiris, Protosequence kick proceedings off with the furiously tech riffing of Parasitic, a wild & untamed slab of death metal. That is until a surprising tempo change that brings in some keyboards & more classic metal sounding guitar solo. It’s a damn strong start, one that leaves you wondering just what more Biophagous has to offer.” – Games, Braaaiiins And A Headbanging Life

“Protosequence is an act of quality over quantity. I get seriously lost in their music, be it through a spine-damaging headbanging session (“DFL”) or stretch of melodic introspection (“Shepherd”). Biophagous offers up another nice showcase of the band’s skill across a variety of substyles and paces.” – Metal Trenches

“Biophagus is of another caliber, every aspect of it is flawless, and will not only be in my playlist but should be in everyone else’s as well. Whatever you do, do not sleep on this band. Make sure you pick up Biophagus when it releases August 18th! ” – Blood Rock Media

“Incorporating elements from deathcore, technical death metal, and, yes, even djent, Protosequence manages to maintain the listener’s interest while developing an identity that is not only unique to Canada, but to the world. ” – It Djents

“Traversing between djent and technical progressive metal” – Somberlane

“You can compare Protosequence to as many modern metal bands as you want but they’re deserve being called more than “just another scene band”. “Schizophrene’ is more than solid and the new EP will be worth the wait on this showing. Cracking modern tech-death.” – This Noise Is Ours

“This EP is bursting with technical hooks and ripping solos that take more than a few cues from the technical death metal camp. In fact, if we consider a spectrum between these genres, I would say that Schizophrene falls closer to groups like The Zenith Passage than Whitechapel. Also, mad props for the seemless shifts between melodic and harsh riffs while maintaining aggression in the vocals.” – Metal Trenches (EP Review Schizophrene)

“Musically speaking, they share as much in common with Periphery as they do with Lost Soul. While there will be some who are turned off by the noise gates and the disparity of the chunky lows and the sharp highs, I think it’s one of the band’s biggest strengths. It represents the merging of two very technical subgenres and presents each of them in the context of the other. It’s kind of a hard thing to explain without listening; check out “Guardian” and follow it up with “Darkness Weeps” for the best illustration of this dichotomy.” – Toilet ov Hell (EP Review Schizophrene)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRREcq4clPw

Biophagous EP
Release Date: August 18, 2017

[Download EP Cover]
[Download EP Lyrics]

Track Listing:
1. Parasitic (4:42)
2. DFL (3:42)
3. Shepherd (5:02)
4. The Hate Subsides (4:08)
EP Length: 17:35

EP Credits:
– Guitars tracked by Tylor Dory
– Pre-production drums with Peter Zawalski
– Piano on ‘Parasitic’ written and recorded by Tylor Dory
– Guest Vocals on ‘DFL’ by Diaro Irvine
– Bass written by Ryan Schaffler
– Vocals and drums recorded by Greg Wright at Hillbilly Wizard Sound
– Editing, Mixing and Mastering by Chris Foster at First Strike Recordings
– Artwork and CD layout design by Erskine Designs
– Band Photo by Ryan Wiesner at Trivium Photography

EP Line Up:
Ryan Schaffler (Bass)
Kyle Hunter (Guitar)
Joseph McKee (Vocals)
Logan Vars (Drums)
Dylan Parker (Guitar and Vocals)

Live Band Line Up:
Dylan Parker – Guitar Vocals
Logan Vars Drums
Josh Hahn – Vocals
Jacob Teeple – Bass

Discography:
2016 – Schizophrene (EP)

Shared Stage with:
Protest The Hero, Kataklysm, Ne Obliviscaris, Black Crown Initiate, Archspire, The Schoenberg Automaton, Our Last Crusade, Death Toll Rising, Tylor Dory Trio, The Noumenon, Plaguebringer, Tides of Kharon, W.M.D., Apollyon, The Faceless, Angelmaker

Festivals:
2017 – Metallion
2015 – Breakdown For Break-fest 2015

L-R: Dylan Parker – Guitar, Vocals, Logan Vars – Drums, Josh Hahn – Vocals, Jacob Teeple – Bass

Photo-credit: Ryan Wiesner @ Trivium Photography

Protosequence was formed in the spring of 2014 by 5 guys who shared the same goal: create an array of songs that reflected each of them personally. As autumn approached that year, the band started to play in Edmonton, as well as Central and Southern Alberta. Releasing their debut 4 song EP “Schizophrene” in January of 2016, they quickly established a name for themselves in the Edmonton and area metal scene. Bassist Ryan Schaffler left the band in early 2017, with Jacob Teeple filling the vacancy seamlessly. After taking to the road, completing a 10 day tour of Western Canada in June, they hit the studio and released their sophomore 4 song EP “Biophagous” in August of 2017. 2018 saw Protosequence solidify and expand their following around Western Canada. Playing Armstrong and Metallion Festival, touring through BC, as well as sharing the stage with touring acts like The Faceless, Angelmaker, Ingested, Signs of the Swarm, Bodysnatcher, and others. In August, vocalist Joe McKee announced his retirement from Protosequence, with guitarist Kyle Hunter following suit a few weeks later. Protosequence quickly added Josh Hahn to the mix on vocals after seeing him perform with his previous band, Seraphic Nihilist. Shortly after Metallion Festival, the band convinced him to move from Prince George, BC, to the motherland: Edmonton, Alberta. With no luck finding a replacement guitarist, the band pressed on into writing mode.

0 Prog-Sphere Premiere New Video ‘Seven Sisters’ By Prog Virtuosos OMNISIGHT; Out Now! New EP ‘Power of One’

February 3, 2017
by Asher
· Music News · Omnisight

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – February 3, 2017

For fans of Dream Theater, Tool, Yngwie Malmsteen, Animals As Leaders,Van Halen, RacerX

Prog-Sphere Premiere New Video ‘Seven Sisters’ By Prog Virtuosos OMNISIGHT

Out Now! New EP ‘Power of One’

Bringing progressive metal into new dimensions especially for those who really enjoy full explosive adventure, Vancouver virtuosos OmnisighT recently gave the world their latest effort ‘Power of One’. The EP showcases their highly regarded musicianship and finely wrought song-craft. As a whole ‘Power of One’ is a musical journey with a story concept to question the status quo and stand up against the oppression plus deceptions of the ruling class.

Teaming up with Prog-Sphere.com, OmnisighT are excited to share with fans their latest video ‘Seven Sisters’ in support of the EP.

Vocalist / guitarist Raj Krishna explains:

“I wrote the seven sisters riff just goofing around at home. I really didn’t even like it that much! I still wanted to try it out live in the room though, and Chris our drummer put this super funky groove on it and I got a vocal off it right away. It’s loosely based on the seven sisters oil cartel BP, Shell, Exxon, Texaco Standard Oil and the like. Basically it’s about befriending people just to get at their resources. It’s also in a 7/8 time signature through a lot of the song, so that’s me just trying to be clever!”

Watch ‘Seven Sisters‘ at the following link: http://www.prog-sphere.com/specials/omnisight-seven-sisters-video-premiere/

‘Power of One’ is now streaming along with CD and digital download at https://omnisight.bandcamp.com/album/the-power-of-one

Also available on iTunes, Spotify, and all other major online retailers.

Drummer Chris Warunki comments on the release:

“The Power Of One is the sound of a band firing on all cylinders. Guitarists, bassists, drummers and vocalists will all have something in-store for them here with this EP. We are excited to get this out to the prog/rock/metal masses both musically and lyrically. Speaking of lyrically, the album will come with a PDF booklet exclusive to our Bandcamp supporters. We took a “more is more” approach with this one and it will be a real challenge, but a welcome challenge; to take it to the stage. We want to keep the musicianship in the music, that has been our agenda since day one!”

If you’re in the Vancouver, BC area, you can catch the guys performing their local CD release show on March 11th at the Astoria with support from My Mother The Carjacker and Did You Die. Full event details can be found here.

1. Shift The Paradigm (5:24)
2. Resistance (4:51)
3. Seven Sisters (6:32)
4. Fall of The Empire (7:04)
5. Power of One (7:11)
EP Length: 31:04

About:
Known for their formidable musicianship, virtuosic guitar solos and powerful songs, OmnisighT is masterfully blurring the lines between melodic hard rock and progressive metal. Beginning as collaboration between vocalist/guitarist Raj Krishna and drummer Chris Warunki, they created the impressive ‘Path’ debut album in 2012. Their live line-up was consolidated with the addition of Dave Shannon on bass and guitarist Blake Rurik. ‘Path’ was followed up by the 2013 ‘Wave Particle’ EP.

Like all truly visionary musicians, band co-founder Raj was driven to create unique music. “I’ve been writing and singing songs since I was a little kid. We never seemed to hear heavy prog music that had shredding and hooks at the same time. It always seems you get one or the other….Having technical musicianship with good song-writing, shredding licks, and big hooks was the whole idea.”

Raj sums up OmnisighT’s music thusly: ‘Proggy, hooky, shredding, sad, and powerful!’

While Raj is justifiably proud of OmnisighT’s recorded output, he sees the importance of performance. ‘Live is where the band really shines! We put on a show, running around smiling and shredding. The band plays with more intensity…we often give the headliners a run for their money.’

For more info, please visit the following links:
https://www.facebook.com/omnisight
https://ashermediarelations.com/2016/12/16/epk-omnisight-power-of-one-ep-2017/

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“The depth of talent in Canada often surprises us. Here is another superb band to add to the list. It remains to be seen how far “The Power Of One” takes OmnisighT. But one thing is for sure, it is an EP of which they can be incredibly proud.” – Maximum Volume Music

“If you’re going to attempt this sort of thing, you’d better have chops. Fortunately, (OmnisighT) have ’em, and how.” – Georgia Straight

“Their stage presence and technique is out of this world…I can safely say that the only guitarists I’ve seen live that instilled the same sort of awe in me as Raj Krishna were Jeff Loomis and John Petrucci himself.” – Prog Sphere

“great songwriting, fantastic lead guitar work…immediately on the first track, the intro “String Theory,” we are greeted by some immense guitar skills. Seriously, these guys are fucking fantastic.” – The Monolith

“deliciously retro, Zappa-meets-Malmsteen solos with at least one toe in the land of jazzy improv… guitar fiends should rush to check them out.” – Georgia Straight

“I have never been more impressed with a band that I had zero knowledge about. These guys play like they’ve been playing together since birth and clearly love what they do at a cellular level.” – Metal Titans

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0 NEWS: SkullsnBones Showcase TACTUS’ Prog Tech Shredding In ‘Colossus’ Guitar Playthrough

November 1, 2016
by Asher
· Music News · Tactus

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – November 1, 2016

Album Promo Request here.
For fans of Periphery, Protest the Hero, Between the Buried and Me

Tactusband.com | Facebook | Twittter @tactusband

Youtube | Instagram @tactusband | Bandcamp

Download = Press Photo | Album Cover | Album Lyrics

SkullsnBones Showcase TACTUS’ Prog Tech Shredding In ‘Colossus’ Guitar Playthrough

New Album ‘Bending Light’ Out Now!

Photo Credit: The Photo Ninja

Unleashing their debut full length ‘Bending Light’ on October 7th, Fredericton, New Brunswick five piece progressive metal band TACTUS have teamed up with SkullsnBones.com to show fans the technical shredding behind their track ‘Colossus’ in their latest guitar playthrough, which can be viewed at the following link: http://skullsnbones.com/tactus-premiere-guitar-playthrough-of-colossus/

TACTUS‘ ‘Bending Light’ features ten outer limit prog tracks produced by the band with mixing and mastering by Jamie King (Between The Buried In Me, Paradise Lost, Scale The Summit) to follow their previously released EPs ‘ins(T)rumental’ (2015) and ‘T’ (2014) plus singles ‘Enigma’ and their metal cover of The Police’s ‘Roxanne’.

Bending Light – Album Stream – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=niLxagtaRQE

The album is available for order on CD and digital download at the following links.

CD: http://buytactus.bigcartel.com/

Regular Album Order:

https://tactusband.bandcamp.com/album/bending-light

Bandcamp Exclusive Version w/ instrumentals and complete guitar tablature:

https://tactusband.bandcamp.com/album/bending-light-bandcamp-exclusive

1. Anamnesis (2:12)
2. Aurora (6:26)
3. Scimitar (4:08)
4. All Roads (4:06)
5. Feast or Famine (4:58)
6. Colossus (4:20)
7. Goliath (7:14)
8. Cardinal (4:20)
9. Red and Ivory (6:56)
10. King of the Sky (14:35)
Album Length: 59.21About:

Formed in 2011 as a jam project by three fellow music students, the group has gone on to release several singles and EPs independently, while having the opportunity to share the stage with great metal acts like Protest the Hero, Intervals, Black Crown Initiate, and Mandroid Echostar. The group pride themselves on their infusion of multiple musical styles into hard-hitting riffs, epic choruses, and technically intense passages. Soaring melodies, guttural growls, and destructive breakdowns flow into soft, slow, and pensive segments of jazz and rock. Their compositional method, where songs are conceived, written, transcribed, and edited before they are ever learned or rehearsed, adds a level of refinement and fluidity not always found in heavier music. The band do almost all of their engineering work themselves, but have also worked with several talented producers. Their first EP T (June 2014), comprised of four previously released singles and one new song, featured the mixing and mastering handiwork of Gino Bambino (Novallo) and Justin Hill (SikTh). Their single Resurface (December 2014) was handled by George Lever (Burials).

For more info, please visit: www.TactusBand.com.

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0 OUT NOW! Montreal Prog Champs THE CHRONICLES OF ISRAFEL New Album ‘A Trillion Lights, Tome II’

October 15, 2016
by Asher
· Music News · The Chronicles of Israfel

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – October 15, 2016

Album Promo Request here.

For fans of Dream Theater, Devin Townsend, Periphery, Scale the Summit, Meshuggah

OUT NOW! Montreal Prog Champs THE CHRONICLES OF ISRAFEL New Album ‘A Trillion Lights, Tome II’

CD Release Show Oct 15th @ Petit Cafe Campus – info

Track Listing:
1. Colors Of The Energy Construct (2:03)
2. Goddamned (3:52)
3. I Remember (7:41)
4. Nightmare (3:17)
5. Spirit Carousel ft. Bekki Friesen (4:07)
6. Life I Know (4:55)
7. In Ruins (5:57)
8. Hatred In My Heart (4:18)
9. Violet Empress (Last Love) (5:13)
10. Greet The Sun (3:49)
11. A Trillion Lights (5:36)
12. Incendia (2:15)
13. The Turning Of The Heavens (12:38)
Album Length: 1:05:47

Montreal prog champs THE CHRONICLES OF ISRAFEL’s long awaited sophomore album ‘A Trillion Lights, Tome II’ is now available as of October 15th via BOH Records on iTunes, CD Baby and all other major online retailers. The album is the follow up to their 2007 debut ‘Starborn, Tome I’. The album features 13 tracks of progressive songwriting blended with incredible guitar riffs and symphonic piano rounded with melodic vocals for a cinematic music experience.

To hear tracks from the release, please visit the following links:

Song Stream – I Remember – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6P2zCePbTFA
Music Video – Spirit Carousel ft. Bekki Friesen – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lN_O7BAszKo
Music Video – Life I Know – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LV3pktRoXuw
Music Video – In Ruins – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIaQjAfEIuY
Music Video – Hatred In My Heart – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=orRekHcTpDo
Music Video – Violet Empress (Last Love) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NBrGOPym_rE
Guitar Playthrough – Goddamned – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0I60lSGtPWY

The project was on hiatus for several years due to demand and relocation to Los Angeles by founder/guitarist/vocalist Dominic Cifarelli (former guitar player for Pulse Ultra (Atlantic Records)). While in Los Angeles, Ciferalli was part of multiple projects that included touring with Scars on Broadway, which featured Daron Malakian and John Dolmayan of System of a Down, a collaboration with Lukas Rossi on the single “Headspin” that is featured on the album “Rockstar Supernova” starring Tommy Lee, Gilby Clarke and Jason Newsted, recording guitars and bass for Billy Ray Cyrus’ 2012 release “Change My Mind” plus performing on French platinum artist Zaho’s debut and sophomore albums, and recording two guitar solos on a Rush tribute album released by Magna Carta, which featured Sebastian Bach (Skid Row), Mike Mangini (Dream Theater) and Stu Hamm (Steve Vai). Other highlights in Cifarelli’s career include a featured guest guitar appearance with Cypress Hill and Travis Barker at the annual Smoke Out Festival in San Bernardino, CA that also featured Incubus, Living Colour and Manu Chao plus guest performances in 2013 with Chevelle in Las Vegas at the Hard Rock Hotel and Taproot at the Whiskey in Los Angeles.

For those in the Montreal area, THE CHRONICLES OF ISRAFEL will be hosting a CD Release show at Petit Cafe Campus on October 15th. Full details here.

For more info, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/thechroniclesofisrafel.

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0 NEWS: New Noise Mag Premiere Montreal Prog Metal FRACTAL CYPHER ‘Lost’

June 15, 2016
by Asher
· Fractal Cypher · Music News

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – June 15, 2016

Song Promo Request here.

For fans of Symphony X, Dream Theater, Scar Symmetry, Sonata Arctica, Kamelot

Facebook | Twitter | Youtube | Bandcamp

iTunes | Amazon | Googleplay | CD Baby

New Noise Mag Premiere Montreal Prog Metal FRACTAL CYPHER ‘Lost’

Reveal Album Artwork and Track Listing For ‘The Human Paradox’

Teaming up with New Noise Magazine, Montreal prog metallers FRACTAL CYPHER are giving fans a taste of what’s to come with the premiere of their second single ‘Lost’ off their upcoming debut album ‘The Human Paradox’ set for a release on September 7th. The album is produced by Chris Donaldson (Cryptopsy, The Agonist, Beyond Creation, Neuraxis) and will be comprised of 9 songs, each hand picked and strategically chosen to best represent the living, breathing entity that is FRACTAL CYPHER.

“This track is the perfect balance between heaviness and softness, and it’s a track that truly unleashes the full sound of the band. I’d say it’s the most representative song of the record in terms of sound, composition and arrangements. It’s a song we enjoy to play and I think people will feel the same as we do. Play it loud!” comments vocalist Simon Lavoie.

To listen to ‘Lost’, please visit the following link:http://newnoisemagazine.com/song-premiere-fractal-cypher-lost/

FRACTAL CYPHER exists to captivate audiences with progressive instrumentals that cut through the mesmerizing vocals yet somehow evolving; each listen provides a new perspective. Straight out of the heart of Canada’s metal scene, these Montreal metallers constantly shift their compositions with seamless transitions and theatrical interludes to keep audiences on their toes. Since 2014, ex-Far From Reality members Simon Lavoie (vocals), Ludovick Daoust (keyboard), and Vincent Bruneau (guitar) have dedicated themselves to FRACTAL CYPHER.

The powerful quintet is just as versatile in their music as they are in their musical interests, darting between djent, death metal, and classic rock. Each song acts of their own volition almost taking control of the members and shaping a personality and energy not unlike a living entity. Ludovick is at the helm of songwriting, calculating and unlocking each melody and becoming the voice for each piece.

1. Lost (8:23)
2. Endless Circle (6:26)
3. Shining A While (8:04)
4. Prison Planet (5:27) [Prog-Sphere]
5. Imminent Extinction (6:28)
6. Final Abode (8:32)
7. Awakening (6:21)
8. Idle Words (7:52)
9. The Ghost Of Myself (7:24)

For more info, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/fractalcypher.

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0 NEWS: DIVINITY Premiere ‘Manhunt’ Video via Metal Nation Radio; New EP ‘The Immortalist Part 2. Momentum’ Out Feb 5th

January 21, 2016
by Asher
· Divinity · Music News

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – Jan 21, 2016

For EP Promo, please send request here.

For fans of Soilwork, Extol, Textures, Revocation

EPK | Divinity.ca | Facebook | Twitter | Youtube

DIVINITY Premiere ‘Manhunt’ Video via Metal Nation Radio

New EP ‘The Immortalist Part 2. Momentum’ Out Feb 5th

Taking flashlights and a simple HD cam, Calgary, AB progressive death metal band DIVINITY have created one of the cheapest but very much fulfilling music videos of their career. Teaming up with Metal Nation Radio, the band is premiering their video ‘Manhunt’ in support of their upcoming EP ‘The Immortalist Part 2. Momentum’set to be unleashed on February 5th to follow 2013’s ‘The Immortalist – Part 1 – Awestruck’.

Vocalist Sean Jenkins comments on the video:

“We’re very excited to release a new music video for our upcoming EP release! This video is raw, in your face, and will leave no doubt in your mind that we are back, stronger than ever. We’re also very proud of the fact that we self produced and directed this video all in our band room using flashlights and an HD Cam. Who says you need a 10K budget to make a music video? We surely don’t think so. Crank this new video up and rock on!”

To watch ‘Manhunt’, please visit the following link: http://metalnationradio.ca/exclusive-divinity-premiere-manhunt-video/#more-19705

‘The Immortalist Part 2. Momentum’ was produced by DIVINITY and mixed and mastered by Chris Donaldson (Cryptopsy) at The Grid studio in Montreal along with artwork created by Justin Totemical. The EP is also part of DIVINITY‘s EP trilogy series that will lead up to a full length release later in 2016.

Track listing and EP artwork revealed below.

Manhunt (4:24)
PsyWar (6:34)
DMT (7:33)
Momentum (5:26)

EP Length: 24:00

The Immortalist – Trilogy Overview

DIVINITY have decided to release a full-length album in a different way. They are going to create a 3 part series of 4-song EPs that will develop a full length concept album they are calling ‘The Immortalist’. Doing an Indiegogo campaign in 2012, the band was able to gather enough support to get the production rolling. In April 2013, the band released the first of three EPs entitled, ‘The Immortalist, Part 1 – Awestruck’, which put the trilogy EP idea into motion. With ‘The Immortalist, Part 2 –Momentum’ being released in early February 2016, this leaves Part 3 left to complete and the band is already on top of the writing/recording process for the final 4 songs. Once all 3 EPs are complete, DIVINITY will release an LP version as a 12 song full-length album which is slated to be released later this year.

About:

DIVINITY is made up of 5 musicians with 4 of them being original members of nearly 20 years of playing together. They’ve been described as Progressive Death Metal and compared to bands such as Soilwork, Strapping Young Lad, Death, and Fear Factory.

Current Line-up:

Sean Jenkins – Vocals

Jeff Waite – Vocals

James Duncan – Guitars

Brett Duncan – Drums

Keith Branston – Bass

DIVINITY, based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, started in 1997 and began playing live shows in 1999. In 2001, the band released its first EP album called “Intensify”, which received a lot of local (Canadian) praise. A music video was released for the song “World of Pain” in 2003.

Fast forward to 2007, DIVINITY independently releases their first full-length album called “Allegory” and is picked up by Nuclear Blast Records just 3 months after the independent release. Obviously, this was a major turning point for the band!

In 2008, DIVINITY took on it’s first major tour by joining the Summer Slaughter Canada tour. This gave them the opportunity to connect to high-caliber booking agents and other acts such as Dying Fetus, Whitechapel, and Necrophagist.

Then in 2010, DIVINITY spent its time creating their 2nd full-length album called “The Singularity”,which was released under Candlelight Records with a very positive response from numerous reviewers and listeners. Since the release of The Singularity, DIVINITY has toured Canada numerous times over and has received countless support and praise from around the world.

Currently, The band looks forward to finishing the release of The Immortalist Trilogy and doing follow up touring to support it later this year!

For more info, please visit www.Divinity.ca.

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0 NEWS: ProgressiveMusicPlanet Premiere RHINE Album Title Track ‘An Outsider’; Due Out Feb 5th

January 20, 2016
by Asher
· Music News · Rhine

(contact info below)

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – Jan 20, 2016

For Album Promo, please send request here. Media Album Stream here.

For fans of Opeth, Devin Townsend, Enslaved, Dan Swano/Edge of Sanity/Witherscape, Porcupine Tree

Seattle Prog Metal RHINE Premiere Album Title Track ‘An Outsider’ via ProgressiveMusicPlanet

New Album ‘An Outsider’ Due Out Feb 5th, 2016

L-R – Gabe Tachell – Guitar/Vocals, James Porter – Bass, Carlos Delgado – Drums, Alex Smolin – Guitar – Photo Credit – Megan Treasure – MeganTreasure.com

An Outsider – Trailer Video here.

Seattle’s RHINE has teamed up with ProgressiveMusicPlanet.com for the premiere of the title track and third single ‘An Outsider’ off their upcoming album due out on February 5th, 2016.

The track can be heard at the following link: http://progressivemusicplanet.com/2016/01/20/rhine-world-premiere-of-an-outsider/

Commented vocalist/guitarist Gabe Tachell about the song:

“This is my favorite song on the album, and my favorite type of song to write, because its serious, pretty, and epic.”

‘An Outsider’ is the follow up to RHINE‘s 2011 debut ‘Duality’, which was first a solo effort by band founder Gabriel Tachell (guitar and vocals) whom is now joined by Alex Smolin on guitar (ex-Metameric), James Porter on bass (Ideofone), and Carlos Delgado (Inferion, ex-Death Crowned King) to collaborate on this project. To pre-order ‘An Outsider’, please visit the following link here.

Track Listing of Album: RHINE – An Outsider

1. Dreaming of Death (11:46)

2. The Spell of Dark Water (6:20) [ProgMetalZone]

3. An Outsider (10:05)

4. Somewhere (3:59)

5. Paralyzed (10:50) [PureGrainAudio]

6. Dissolved in Fire (7:53)

7. P.R.E.Y. (5:31)

8. Into the Unknown (6:34)

9. Shipwrecked In Stasis (3:02)

10. Fragments (8:21)

About:

Seattle’s Rhine are seamlessly connecting German thrash metal with Swedish death metal much like their namesake, the Rhine River. The founder of the group Gabriel Tachell named it such for its simplicity and as a metaphor for fluidity and change. The band started in 2011 with the release of their first album ‘Duality’ which was at first a solo effort by Tachell (guitar and vocals) and eventually led to a full band. He is now joined by Alex Smolin on guitar (ex-Metameric), James Porter on bass (Ideofone), and Carlos Delgado (Inferion, ex-Death Crowned King) to collaborate on this project.

Rhine are primarily producing epic, progressive songs and yet others flow to the mouth of the river where there is a culmination of black, death, and thrash metal, occasionally tinged with classical, folk and other styles. The band has a certain frantic unpredictability in terms of songwriting and structure while the moody vocals gently ride over the extreme precision of the guitar, drum, and bass. The four-piece are experimental in their intentions, yet melodically and rhythmically catchy with the delivery. Tachell is the primary inspiration for the current material, referencing experiences in his life from emotional turmoil, health issues, fairy tales, to dreams of finding corpses floating in a swamp. Their interesting themes and energetic music has been evolving into a unique and distinctive sound.

Live, Rhine is an unbridled horse that emotes a nervous uncertainty of what is next compositionally and emotionally. The band bases their performance on the backbone of the band — guitar, vocals, bass, and drums, and they definitely don’t shy away from the challenges of playing music like this live without the help of backing tracks. Their latest release ‘An Outsider’ is slated for February 5, 2016 and while it may not be heavier than the previous release, it is certainly more advanced in terms of playing, songwriting, vocal performance and production. It includes tracks featuring german lyrics, completely improvised solos and an overall human-ness that is often lost amongst other high level metal productions in this age of quantizing and autotuning. Rhine are one band that has grown into a machine that is not to be missed.

For more info, please visit www.RhineOfficial.com.

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