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• Streaming Now! Canadian Metalcore Newcomers AS OCEANS DIVIDE Unleash Debut Self-Titled EP in Memory of Late Bassist

  Jul 8, 2026 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  L-R - Matt McGuire - Drums, Thomas Ireland - Guitar, Tom Emmans - Vocals, Eric Camilleri - Guitar, Mark Sorge - Bass

  Ontario heavy newcomers As Oceans Divide will release their self‑titled debut EP on July 9, 2026, with a full‑album stream premiering exclusively at BraveWords.com. The EP stands as both the band’s official introduction and a deeply personal tribute, released in memory of bassist Dale Burrows, whose passing in March 2026 profoundly shaped the band’s journey and the emotional weight behind the music.

  Listen to the EP HERE.

  As Oceans Divide is built around contrast, aggression vs. atmosphere, heaviness vs. melody, chaos vs. control, a balance that defines the band’s identity. Musically, the EP blends technical, hard‑hitting elements with dynamic, melodic passages that allow each track to breathe while maintaining intensity. Every song is structured as a journey, not just a sequence of riffs.

  Lyrically, the EP explores internal struggle, loss, resilience, and the weight of confronting what lies beneath the surface. Much of that emotional honesty is tied to the band’s real experiences, including the grief and reflection that followed Burrows’ passing.

  “Everything ties together to create an immersive experience. It’s meant to pull the listener in, hit hard when it needs to, and still leave space for reflection.”

  The EP’s cover features a crest depicting a chained sea serpent wrapped around an anchor, set against a violent ocean backdrop. The imagery reflects the emotional tension at the heart of the record, something powerful trying to break free while being held down.

  The serpent represents buried emotional weight, the chains symbolize restraint and internal conflict, and the anchor embodies both stability and the threat of being dragged under. Together, the artwork mirrors the band’s sonic identity: a constant push and pull between aggression and melody.

  Formed from years of friendship and shared history in Canadian metal, As Oceans Divide brings together seasoned musicians from respected acts including Bloodshoteye, Aquila, Odium, Battlesoul, and more. Their combined experience gives the band a sound rooted in authenticity rather than imitation. Their current lineup includes Tom Emmans (Vocals), Eric Camilleri (Guitar/Songwriting), Thomas Ireland (Guitar/Production), Matt McGuire (Drums), and Mark Sorge (Bass).

  
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  The band’s formation began with guitarist Eric Camilleri, whose desire for a more serious, technical, and emotionally driven project led him to reconnect with longtime friends. Early demos sparked immediate chemistry, and the lineup came together naturally. The band carries the memory of bassist Dale Burrows, who passed away in March 2026, forward in everything they create.
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  Their sound blends soaring melody with crushing rhythms, channeling early-2000s metalcore through a modern lens, with harmonized guitars, driving mid‑tempo anthems, and high‑intensity assaults anchored by Emmans’ dynamic vocal range.

  
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  Recommended for fans of Killswitch Engage, All That Remains, Unearth, and God Forbid, As Oceans Divide's self-titled EP will be available on all digital platforms as of July 9th, 2026, at the following links:

  Bandcamp - https://asoceansdivideband.bandcamp.com/​

  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/1oKSKBjhTMy7IHOBZOq5QN​

  Track Listing:​
  1. Into The Dying Light – 4:04
  2. White Noise – 3:31
  3. World Collapse – 3:16
  4. Cursed Oblivion – 3:59
  5. One Of The Herd – 3:25
  EP Length: 18:15

  For more info:

  ​https://asoceansdivide.com

  ​https://www.facebook.com/asoceansdivide

  ​https://www.instagram.com/asoceansdivide​

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• LITTLE KING Shares New Single “Opus Perficit” To Kick Off July West Coast Tour!

  Jul 7, 2026 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

   

  Arizona's Little King shares “Opus Perficit,” a haunting new standalone single that reveals a quieter, more introspective side of the progressive rock band as they celebrate 30 years of making music. Released just days before the group hits the road for a nine‑date Southwest and West Coast tour, the track offers a striking contrast to their heavier catalog while remaining unmistakably Little King, thoughtful, adventurous, and emotionally resonant.
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  Built around a hypnotic 5/4 pulse, “Opus Perficit” unfolds with slow‑burn intensity, pairing acoustic textures, layered vocals, and cinematic dynamics. Lyrically, songwriter Ryan Rosoff explores the creative obsession that drives artists forward, the tension between endless revision and completion, and the vulnerability of releasing one’s work into the world. References to “Osmium” and “20 Hz” nod to Rosoff’s long‑running lyrical universe, offering longtime fans a deeper thread to pull.
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  The recording features David Hamilton in a remarkable multi‑instrumental performance, providing both the expressive piano and melodic bass work that anchor the song’s emotional depth. Rather than relying on technical excess, “Opus Perficit” embraces space, restraint, and atmosphere, allowing every note to serve the story.
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  The single arrives in tandem with Little King’s nine‑date Southwest tour, marking the band’s second major run since releasing their 2025 album "Lente Viviente." The trio Ryan Rosoff (guitar/vocals), Tony Bojorquez (drums), and Dave Hamilton (bass) will perform across key West Coast cities, bringing their acclaimed live energy back to the stage.
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  Earlier this year, Little King completed a successful string of shows across New Mexico, Texas, Arizona, and even a surprise pop‑up performance in Mexico. Their full tour diary, including stories of power outages, ibuprofen, and gratitude, is available on their website.
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  Rosoff describes Little King’s live show as “meticulous, rehearsed, and RAGING with push‑and‑pull energy… PROS with experience.” Fans can expect high‑level musicianship, dynamic setlists, and a performance that’s both technically sharp and emotionally charged.
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  Released in September 2025, "Lente Viviente" represents a major creative leap for Little King. With Bojorquez and Hamilton joining the lineup, the band crafted what Rosoff calls “BY FAR our biggest release.” The album’s title, Spanish for Living Lens, ties into Rosoff’s video memoir company, LivingLens Memoirs, and sets the thematic tone for the record’s exploration of memory, identity, perception, and the shifting filters through which we understand ourselves.
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  Across tightly constructed “micro‑epics,” the album moves through themes of childhood and enduring friendship (“Catch and Release,” “Dawn Villa”), immigration and identity (“Who’s Illegal?”), aging and addiction (“Pass Through Filters”), and the balance between strength and vulnerability (“Kindness for Weakness”). Musically, the record blends progressive rock, hard rock, and melodic hooks with Little King’s trademark precision and dynamic push‑and‑pull.
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  For three decades, Little King has carved out a unique space in progressive rock, dynamic, melodic, and fiercely independent. Led by songwriter‑guitarist Ryan Rosoff, the band continues to evolve while maintaining the emotional honesty and musical precision that define their sound.
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  With “Opus Perficit,” Little King opens a new chapter, one that honors the past, embraces the present, and hints at the creative horizons still ahead.

  Listen to the single at the following links:

  Spotify (and all other digital platforms) - https://loousperficit.hearnow.com/opus-perficit​

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  Little King - West Coast USA Tour 2026​
  July 10 – Ruidoso, NM – Downshift Brewery Riverside
  July 12 – Tucson, AZ – Brick Box Brewery w/ The Crown Syndicate and Zold
  July 14 – Tempe, AZ – Yucca Tap Room
  July 15 – Anaheim, CA – The World Famous Doll Hut
  July 17 – San Diego, CA - Tower Bar w/ Stretcher
  July 18 – West Hollywood, CA – The Viper Room
  July 19 – Pacifica, CA – Winters Tavern w/ The Wandering Jews and Melting Elephants
  July 23 – Bisbee, AZ – Gene’s Place
  July 25 – El Paso, TX – Lowbrow Palace

  For more info: https://littlekingtunes.com/​
  
  

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• SARTORI Unveils New Single "We're Rising" From Upcoming Album "Just An Illusion” Out Jan 2027

  Jul 7, 2026 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Rockshots Records is proud to announce the release of “Just An Illusion”, the first single from SARTORI’s upcoming studio album "We’re Rising", scheduled for January 29th, 2027, on CD, vinyl, and digital formats.
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  Following the debut album "Dragon’s Fire", guitarist, composer and virtuoso Andy Sartori returns with a new chapter that expands the SARTORI sound into a more melodic, eclectic and old-school heavy metal direction. "We’re Rising" marks a different experience from the first album, driven by stronger melodic songwriting, the powerful vocal presence of Mark Boals, and a broader musical approach.
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  Inspired by the golden era of late-’80s hard rock and heavy metal, the album blends neo-classical guitar work, American power metal energy, AOR influences and the spirit of Yngwie Malmsteen’s Odyssey-era while retaining the refined arrangements and virtuoso musicianship that define Andy Sartori’s vision.
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  The album features legendary vocalist Mark Boals - known for his work with Yngwie Malmsteen, Ring of Fire and Royal Hunt - alongside Andy A. Sartori on guitars and keyboards, Andre Di Sao Thiago on bass guitar and Dino Castano on drums. "We’re Rising" was mixed by Kfir Gov at Evil Snail Studios in Austin, Texas, and mastered by Maor Appelbaum, assisted by Zach Kornhauser at Maor Appelbaum Mastering in California.
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  Opening the campaign is “Just An Illusion”, a melodic and uplifting track built around a positive message of perseverance: keeping faith, continuing to fight and believing that the effort is worth it. The song combines a European melodic metal feel with strong vocal hooks, powerful riffs and Andy Sartori’s neo-classical guitar identity, making it the perfect introduction to the sound and spirit of "We’re Rising".
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  Speaking about the single, Andy Sartori comments:
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  “'Just An Illusion' is a positive ‘keep the faith and keep trying because it’s worth it’ kind of song. It also has a very European kind of style which gives it a special melodic character within the album.”
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  Discussing the new album, Sartori adds:
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  “We’re Rising is a different experience compared to the first album, starting with Mark Boals’ fantastic vocals and melodic approach. The new songs are also more eclectic than the ones from the first album, which makes this record a very important step forward for SARTORI.”
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  With its mix of classic heavy metal energy, melodic choruses and refined guitar work, "We’re Rising" is aimed at fans of Yngwie Malmsteen’s Odyssey era, Rainbow, Axel Rudi Pell, American power metal, ’80s heavy rock and neo-classical melodic metal.

  LISTEN to "Just An Illusion" on all digital platforms - https://lnk.to/s8rJai

  ​PRE-ORDER "We're Rising" on CD: https://rockshots.eu/products/sartori-were-rising-cd​
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  ​PRE-ORDER "We're Rising" on LP: https://rockshots.eu/products/sartori-were-rising-lp​

  Track Listing:​
  1. An Army Of One
  2. Just An Illusion
  3. Little Aria In G Major Part II
  4. Renaissance
  5. Quest For Glory
  6. Someone To Hold You
  7. Solitude
  8. Savage
  9. My Eternal Fight
  10. We’re Rising

  Sartori Line-up:

  Andy A. Sartori: Guitars
  ​Mark Boals: Vocals
  ​Andre Di Sao Thiago: Bass Guitars
  ​Dino Castano: Drums

  Biography:

  SARTORI is an American virtuoso guitarist and songwriter whose music combines melodic hard rock, neo-classical influences, and traditional heavy metal with a contemporary production approach. Drawing inspiration from artists such as Yngwie J. Malmsteen, Axel Rudi Pell and the timeless sound of Rainbow, he delivers technically accomplished yet highly melodic compositions that balance instrumental virtuosity with memorable songwriting.

  For more info:
  ​https://rockshots.eu/​
  ​https://www.facebook.com/people/Sartori/100031570075980/​

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• QUEMASANTOS Reveals New Album Cover

  Jul 4, 2026 ArmyOfOneTV 0 Comments

   

  

   

  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

  QUEMASANTOS REVEALS THE COVER ART FOR NEW CONCEPT ALBUM STRANDED IN HELL

  After months of anticipation, heavy metal band Quemasantos has officially unveiled the cover artwork for its upcoming second full-length album, Stranded In Hell, scheduled for worldwide CD release in 2026 through Digmetalworld Records.

  More than an album cover, the artwork serves as the visual gateway into the record's conceptual universe. Designed to reflect the descent that unfolds throughout the eleven songs, the image introduces a dark, infernal landscape where each chapter represents another step deeper into a world shaped by fear, temptation, justice, isolation, and survival.

  Musically, Stranded In Hell expands on Quemasantos' foundation of classic heavy and thrash metal with crushing riffs, memorable melodies, cinematic atmospheres, and dynamic arrangements. Every song contributes to a single narrative, making the album a complete listening experience rather than a collection of individual tracks.

  The album was written by drummer and producer Ignacio Orellana during one of the most difficult periods of his life, while his wife battled cancer. Originally composed as fifteen songs, the project was ultimately refined into eleven chapters that form the final journey presented on Stranded In Hell. Vocalist Nelson Díaz developed the lyrical concepts that brought this infernal world to life.

  Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Ignacio Orellana at Oily Sound Studios in New York City, the album also features eleven guest musicians who contribute throughout the record.

  With the artwork now revealed, Quemasantos continues the countdown toward the album's release, with additional announcements to follow in the coming months.

  Stranded In Hell will be released worldwide on CD in 2026.

  For news, music, and updates, follow Quemasantos on social media and visit www.quemasantos.com.

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• Prog Innovator FERNANDO MOLINARI Unveils New Video “Minerva” ft. Marco Minnemann, Andre Nieri & Herbert Medeiros; New EP "NUMEN" Out Now!

  Jul 2, 2026 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

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  Brazilian prog‑fusion composer and bassist Fernando Molinari has released the stunning new performance video for “Minerva”, featuring an elite trio of world‑class musicians: drummer Marco Minnemann (The Aristocrats, Joe Satriani, Steven Wilson), guitarist Andre Nieri (Virgil Donati Band), and keyboardist Herbert Medeiros in support of his newly released EP "NUMEN."

  “Minerva” opens the EP with explosive energy, built on 5/4 time, five simultaneous layers, and a commanding melodic theme. The track blends prog, fusion, and heavy elements into a dense, immersive soundscape, brought vividly to life in the new video.
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  ​Minnemann’s virtuosic drumming, Nieri’s razor‑sharp guitar work, and Medeiros’ atmospheric keyboard textures elevate Molinari’s composition into a cinematic, high‑intensity performance that captures the EP’s core identity: deep, energetic, prog, fusion, and heavy.
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  Out now on all streaming platforms, "NUMEN, mixed and mastered by Grammy Award winner Paulo Anhaia, is an instrumental EP inspired by Roman mythology. The term numen refers to a “divine presence” or manifestation of something sacred, an idea that became central to Molinari during one of the most challenging periods of his life.
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  ​“Music is a NUMEN in my life. A place where I find peace, joy, and a cure for my darkest moments,” adds Molinari.
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  The EP delivers a dense, atmospheric listening experience filled with layers, riffs, melodies, and emotional depth. Fans of progressive music and fusion will find a rich, immersive journey across all five tracks.
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  ​"NUMEN" features an exceptional roster of musicians from across the global prog and fusion scenes, including Marco Minnemann – Drums (The Aristocrats, Joe Satriani, Steven Wilson), Andre Nieri – Guitar (Virgil Donati Band), Mariko Muranaka – Piano (Hans Zimmer, Madonna), Joao Hanysz – Guitar (Casagrande & Hanysz), Luigi Paraventi – Guitar (Paleface Swiss), Chris Clark – Piano (Virgil Donati / Jon Anderson Band), and Daniel Felix – Keyboards (Caravellus).​
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  Molinari’s writing approach is unconventional; he never begins with an instrument. Instead, he records vocal ideas on his phone and later transcribes them into full arrangements.
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  ​“I don’t want technique to box me in. I write for every instrument, and I want the tracks to stand as full band compositions, not just bass features,” adds Molinari.
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  This method results in compositions rich with simultaneous layers, harmonic depth, odd time signatures, recurring motifs, and intricate textures. From the opening track "Minerva", a 5/4 prog‑fusion with five simultaneous layers and strong melodic themes, to "Netuno" and its heavy riffs, odd time signatures, and rich harmonies to "Mitra" a track with Flamenco‑influenced acoustic guitar, percussion, and piano to "Gemina" a fusion of prog metal, Middle Eastern textures, jazz fusion, cello, and piano to EP closer "Marte" a heavy, groovy trio performance with massive breakdowns. Fernando Molinari delivers his most ambitious and emotionally resonant work to date, an EP full of textures, strong melodies, killer riffs, and deep personality.

  Recommended for fans of Al Di Meola, Egberto Gismonti, Avishai Cohen, The Aristocrats, Virgil Donati, Plini, and Mahavishnu Orchestra, "NUMEN" is available at the following links:

  Add to your Spotify playlist - https://open.spotify.com/album/1Ck6C4OH6pIFpD15Xkl62F

  ​EP Stream - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sMtSchHQL6o

  Bandcamp - https://fernandomolinari.bandcamp.com/album/numen​

  More Info:

  ​https://www.facebook.com/FernandoMolinariPage​

  ​https://www.instagram.com/molinarifernando​

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