News

• Edmonton's FAMOUS STRANGERS Ignite The Universe With New Video “Deepstar” + Show Date w/ DANKO JONES

  Jan 28, 2026 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Edmonton, Canada’s alt‑metal visionaries Famous Strangers, have unveiled the long‑anticipated music video for “Deepstar,” their debut 2024 single and the first song the band ever released. After two years in the vault, the cinematic visual finally arrives in 2026, marking a major milestone in the band’s evolving creative journey.
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  Originally released in September 2024, “Deepstar”, mixed by Juno‑winner Phil Anderson (Econoline Crush, Garth Prince, Van Halst) and mastered by world‑renowned engineer Maor Appelbaum (Faith No More, Dokken, Dream Theater, Limp Bizkit), introduced listeners to Famous Strangers’ signature blend of atmospheric storytelling, haunting melodies, and emotional intensity. The new long‑form video brings the track’s cosmic narrative fully to life.
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  Vocalist Amanda Kiernan describes the origins of the song as deeply personal and unexpectedly cosmic:
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  “I started writing this song literally just describing my friend Mileena, how she makes me feel, and how her presence feels in the room. It all came together so perfectly when I added all the space and healing. The world needs a hero, and I put those two together… it just happened, flooding the paper like some epic extraterrestrial being. What’s even better is that she agreed to be Deepstar and be in our video. We are honored and blessed to have her.”​
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  Guitarist Jeff Kittlitz recalls how naturally the music itself formed:
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  ​“Deep Star came together quickly and organically. While exploring presets on my new Fractal FM9, I landed on a tone that instantly brought to mind classic Deep Purple and Black Sabbath, and the main riff came together almost immediately. Once I brought it to Beej, the song fell into place fast and gave Amanda plenty of space to write. It was one of the first songs the four of us created together. During recording, the ending evolved in the studio, and we loved it so much we kept it. It was one of those moments that proves the magic that happens when everyone’s locked in. At its core, it’s a straight‑up rock song.”​
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  Kittlitz adds:
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  ​“Deep Star is coming. This was the very first song we ever released, and the video has been two years in the making. We’re fired up that it’s finally unleashed. A dark cosmic tale of a woman from space sent to save our doomed souls. Massive thanks to Brad Thompson, Mileena Kombat, and Shade Nightclub for helping summon this beast.”​
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  ​“Deepstar” represents the earliest spark of what would become Famous Strangers, a band that formed almost by accident, yet grew into something powerful and intentional. Since their formation in 2023, the group has released four singles, each expanding their sonic universe: (Deepstar 2024), (George 2024), (I’ll See You In The Stars 2025), and (L.S.C. 2025).​
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  These tracks have positioned Famous Strangers as one of Canada’s most intriguing emerging heavy acts. The band has performed at Armstrong MetalFest, Loud As Hell Open Air Festival, and shared stages with Revocation, Danko Jones, Three Inches of Blood, Riot City, and more. Their dark aesthetic, emotional depth, and cinematic approach to songwriting continue to draw attention across the metal and hard‑rock landscape.
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  With the release of the “Deepstar” video, Famous Strangers close the loop on their earliest chapter while stepping boldly into their next. Their upcoming 2026 full‑length album promises to expand their universe even further, darker, deeper, and more immersive than ever.
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  For fans of Halestorm, Nothing More, Sevendust, Butcher Babies, and Bad Omens, watch the “Deepstar” video via Space Untravel’s YouTube channel.

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  Add “Deepstar” to your Spotify playlist - https://open.spotify.com/track/70ubKz5KnptZEvLHi5KpbY​

  In additional news, Famous Strangers have been chosen as local support for Danko Jones' show date in Sherwood Park, AB, a suburb of Edmonton, on February 6th at Sherwood Park Festival Place. For more info, please visit https://festivalplace.ca/events/danko-jones-2/​

  More info:

  ​Famousstrangersband.com

  ​Facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559110131774

  ​Instagram.com/famousstrangersband

  ​Tiktok.com/@famousstrangersband

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• Vancouver's ETERNIOS Summons the Northern Frost with New Single “Requiem for the North”

  Jan 27, 2026 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Rising Blackened Symphonic Death Metal force Eternios return with their monumental new single “Requiem of the North,” the title track from their highly anticipated sophomore album due out in late 2026. The single marks the next evolution of the project originally founded by multi‑instrumentalist and composer Colin Ryley (Hyperia, Bayonet Dismemberment), who launched Eternios as a studio‑only creative outlet before expanding it into a full live band.
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  Following the acclaimed 2025 debut "Mysterium," praised for its fusion of aggressive black metal and sweeping orchestral arrangements, Eternios now sharpen their vision with a colder, more expansive sound rooted deeply in the landscapes that inspired it.
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  ​“Requiem for the North” is both a musical and emotional centerpiece for the upcoming album.

  “This single and the album in general are my love letter to the northern wilderness of Canada. I’ve spent countless hours roaming the forests and mountains of Western Canada. That cold, melancholic silence you feel surrounded by snow and frost is something I wanted to channel directly into the music,” says Colin.

  The track erupts with blast beats, tremolo‑picked harmonies, and sweeping orchestral layers before shifting into a massive, melodic chorus. A neo‑classical C‑section and a soaring dual‑guitar outro push the composition into cinematic territory, blending extreme aggression with haunting beauty.
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  Colin describes Eternios’ sonic identity in five words: Melodic, Aggressive, Melancholic, Intricate, Fast.
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  ​“Requiem for the North” embodies all of these traits while offering a polished and expanded version of the sound established on Mysterium. With the transition toward live performance, vocalist Marlee Ryley (Hyperia) now fronts the band, allowing Colin to focus fully on guitar and orchestrations.
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  ​“I’m very proud of how the single turned out. I think it’s a great representation of what’s coming on the full‑length. I hope fans of extreme black metal and extreme melodic metal both find something to connect with,” adds Colin.
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  The single’s artwork, created by renowned artist Mike Hrubovcak (Visual Darkness), is a chilling preview of the full album’s visual world.
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  “It’s very winter‑heavy. Icy blues, whites, and music notation swirling out of a polar blizzard. Mike’s work with Imperial Crystalline Entombment is some of my favourite black metal artwork ever, so collaborating with him was incredible,” says Colin.
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  ​Eternios remains a deeply personal project at its core. Colin explains further.

  “All the songs were written by me, usually locked away for hours piecing together structures and symphonic arrangements until I’m satisfied. The music almost always comes first. The lyrics are shaped by the imagery the music creates.”
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  While the debut album was entirely written, performed, and produced by Colin Ryley, the new era of Eternios will see more collaboration as the full lineup solidifies. "Requiem for the North," the album, will feature nine original tracks and one cover, delivering a sweeping journey through frostbitten atmospheres, melodic aggression, and symphonic grandeur. The album is expected in Spring 2026, with more singles to follow.
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  ​“This album contains all the darkness, harmony, and aggression that define Eternios. The songs have been flowing naturally, and I expect many more albums to come,” adds Colin.​

  ​Add to your Spotify Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/track/75l7QruoJEWZbGRP7hv3ZJ

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  ​More info:

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

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

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• YESTERDAY'S HERO Explores Isolation and Inner Turmoil in New Video “Road of Doom”

  Jan 27, 2026 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Hard‑hitting alt‑metal band Yesterday’s Hero has released the long‑awaited music video for “Road of Doom,” a fan‑favorite track from their 2023 debut album "Ways to Hate."
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  Dark, atmospheric, and emotionally heavy, “Road of Doom” captures the feeling of isolation and internal struggle that shaped much of the band’s early writing.

  “Darkness comes to mind. Words like sketchy, alone, and lost bring out the colors of this song. It’s like taking a trip only to find emptiness when you arrive,” says guitarist Tony Smith.
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  The track itself was never planned; it erupted unexpectedly during a rehearsal and quickly became an anthem for the personal battles the band members were facing at the time. The video, shot three years ago and brought to life by director/editor Jarod Hewett, was nearly shelved indefinitely. Now, its release serves as a symbolic closing of the band’s debut era.
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  ​“This video felt like something we might never actually get to share. Now that it’s finally seeing daylight, it marks the final chapter of our Ways to Hate era. As we close that door, we’re deep into finishing our sophomore album, set for release this fall. The first single is on track to drop in late February, and we can’t wait to show you what’s next,” adds Smith.

  With the "Road of Doom" video closing the book on their debut era, Yesterday’s Hero is now focused on their second full‑length album. Five tracks are already prepared for recording, and the band promises a heavier, more mature evolution of their sound, still rooted in groove, hooks, and raw emotion.
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  The first single from the upcoming album is expected in late February, with the full release planned for fall.

  The video for "Road of Doom" can be heard and seen via its premiere on V13.net HERE.​
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  Hailing from the bogs of the Black Swamp in Northwest Ohio, Yesterday’s Hero blends hard rock, alt‑metal, groove, and grit into a sound that hits with both emotional weight and mosh‑pit energy. Their music is fueled by heartbreak, addiction, and the raw honesty that comes from small‑town struggle.
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  Their debut album, "Ways to Hate," was intentionally recorded with an analog mindset, no backing tracks, no digital polish, just raw tube‑amp energy. The album plays like a continuous emotional journey, each track flowing into the next as it follows the unraveling of a turbulent relationship.
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  ​Yesterday's Hero is recommended for fans of Chevelle, Rise Against, Killswitch Engage, Godsmack, and Seether.

  Released on November 24, 2023, "Ways To Hate" is available on all digital platforms at https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/yesterdayshero/ways-to-hate and https://yesterdayshero.bandcamp.com (CD/digital).

  Track Listing:​
  1- Killing Me (3:43)
  2- What I Needed (4:06)
  3- Ways to Hate (3:38)
  4- Bounce (4:12)
  5- Be (3:46)
  6- Road of Doom (5:26)
  7- Life's So Good (3:46)
  Album Length: 28:36

  Band Lineup Recording​
  Chris Neller - Vocals
  Nathan Fike - Lead Guitar
  Tony Smith - Guitar
  Bill Mizen - Bass
  Byron Ferguson - Live Drums and Recorded Drums on track 2. What I Needed, 3. Ways to Hate, 4. Bounce
  Jesse Elkins - Recorded Drums on track 1. Killing Me, 5. Be, 6. Road of Doom, and 7. Life's So Good

  Band Lineup Live:​
  Chris Neller - Vocals
  Nathan Fike - Lead Guitar
  Tony Smith - Guitar
  Bill Mizen - Bass
  Marshall Messer - Drums

  More info:

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

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

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• Fort McMurray's SUPERMODEL TAXIDERMY Tapped As Local Support for ANTHRAX and EXODUS

  Jan 26, 2026 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Fort McMurray, Canada's hottest punk thrash commodity, Supermodel Taxidermy has been tapped as local support for legends ANTHRAX and EXODUS' performance in the Alberta North on February 22nd at MacDonald Island.

  This one has been a long time coming for the fanboy trio who have looked up to both bands as influences. Frontman Shawn Maynard comments:

  "Ripping up the stage with Gary Holt, Scott Ian, and their crew is definitely unlocking a childhood dream of mine. On February 22nd, you'd best be wearing some shorts because we're going to bring the heat."

  Event info and tickets can be found at https://www.macdonaldisland.ca/special-events/after-hours-featuring-anthrax-with-special-guest-exodus​

  Unleashing their second album, "At What Cost," in May 2024, the band has torn through the Western Canadian scene like a wrecking ball, quickly becoming one of the region’s essential live acts. Released through Punishment 18 Records, "At What Cost" ignited a surge in their following with its explosive mix of razor‑sharp riffs, commanding vocals, and relentless energy that keeps listeners hungry for more.

  Across ten tracks packed into just under thirty minutes, the record, produced by Rob Lawless and mixed/mastered by Terry Paholek, captures the band’s dedication to crafting a fierce, high‑impact listening experience. This collision of thrash metal and hardcore punk is a natural fit for fans of Iron Reagan, Dayglo Abortions, and Slayer.

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  "At What Cost" is available digitally, on CD, and Orange Splatter Vinyl (in honour of the hockey team, the Edmonton Oilers) at https://supermodeltaxidermy.bandcamp.com/album/at-what-cost​

  Add to your Spotify Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/album/4F96Mi3MTPDaA0LKw63G9f​

  Supermodel Taxidermy is currently halfway through writing their third album. And fans can expect to see the first single released later this year in a new music video. The band will also be supporting a Canadian tour with its full release. In the meantime, you can expect to see their name pop up at a few Canadian Festivals this summer.

  In other exciting news, the band is set to appear on Punk Canada Compilation Volume 5, which drops on vinyl this June. The release features sixteen Canadian punk bands putting their own spin on sixteen classic Canadian punk tracks from the 20th century. Supermodel Taxidermy chose to cover Vancouver’s Lummox, a project founded by Murray Acton of Dayglo Abortions.

  As the band put it, “We even got Murray to hop on the track for a solo, so you know it’s not going to disappoint.”

  Pre-orders can be submitted at supermodeltaxidermy[@]gmail[.]com

  Supermodel Taxidermy is:
  Shawn Maynard - Guitar & Vocals
  Michael Cheney - Bass & Back Up Vocals
  Reilly Williams - Drums

  For more info: https://www.facebook.com/supermodelmodeltaxidermy | https://www.instagram.com/supermodeltaxidermy

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• AITTALA's Animated Video “Ashes” Brings a Dark Tale of Collapse and Consequence to Life

  Jan 22, 2026 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  AITTALA has released the official music video for “Ashes,” the latest single from their second EP of 2025, "Ill‑Gotten Gains," which arrived this past November through Exitus Stratagem Records. The animated video brings to life one of the EP’s most traditional heavy‑metal‑driven tracks, a song centered on the story of someone who spirals far beyond their limits and drags others down with them. Musically, “Ashes” captures the band’s signature fusion of classic metal grit and modern heaviness, showcasing the dynamic songwriting and emotional weight that define AITTALA’s evolving sound.

  Watch the video via its premiere on Outlaws of The Sun HERE.​
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  ​"Ill‑Gotten Gains" continues AITTALA’s long‑standing tradition of blurring genre boundaries, weaving together elements of traditional metal, doom, groove, progressive influences, and hard rock to create a cohesive and immersive listening experience. Lyrically, the EP explores the darker corners of human behavior, focusing on the creation of chaos for personal benefit, the inevitable consequences that follow, and the difficult search for redemption. The EP’s artwork features an updated interpretation of the band’s mascot, Frank, a cartoon pig head in a pentagram originally created in 2014 for the song “Pigs” from the album Effigy. In the world of AITTALA, Frank represents the shady figure who can acquire any “ill‑gotten gains” for the right price, making him the perfect symbol for the EP’s themes.
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  Across the EP, AITTALA delivers a series of songs that reflect both musical evolution and lyrical depth. “Isolation” opens with a doomy, heavy atmosphere that shifts between crushing riffs and clean passages while confronting the consequences of past decisions. The title track, “Ill‑Gotten Gains,” drives forward with a powerful eight‑string riff before descending into a darker, doom‑laden interlude, lyrically exploring the exploitation of chaos for personal advantage. “Blacklisted” counters the themes of the earlier tracks by calling out manipulative personalities with a sludge‑infused groove, while “Ever After” offers a modern metal ballad steeped in internal conflict and the longing for redemption that may never come. The EP culminates with “Ashes,” a traditional heavy‑metal burner that now takes visual form in the band’s newest music video, capturing the emotional descent at the heart of the song.
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  ​AITTALA, pronounced EYE‑tah‑la, has long been recognized for a sound that refuses to fit neatly into any single metal subgenre. Their music blends classic heavy metal, doom, progressive elements, power metal, thrash, and hard rock, all tied together by lyrics inspired by the darker side of the human condition. This unique combination has earned the band a reputation for crafting a sound that is distinctly their own, a rare achievement in today’s crowded metal landscape. The band’s origins trace back to 1991 in the Netherlands, where founder Eric Aittala first formed the group with American and Dutch bandmates. Their early EP, "Selling Heaven," gained traction in the European underground scene and led to opening slots for acts such as The Gathering and Sadist before Eric’s return to the United States brought the project to a temporary close.
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  ​AITTALA was revived in 2008, leading to a prolific run of releases that includes "Bed of Thorns" (2009), "Haunt Your Flesh" (2011), "Effigy" (2014), "American Nightmare" (2016), "False Pretenses" (2019), "Live to Regret" (2022), and "Machines" (EP, 2025). Each release reflects the band’s continued growth while preserving the unmistakable core of the AITTALA sound.

  Today, AITTALA is anchored by founder Eric Aittala on guitars and vocals alongside drummer Gary “Zeus” Smith, known for his work with The Fifth and formerly with Mr. Blackwell. The pair continues to write, record, and tour with the goal of delivering AITTALA’s unmistakable brand of metal to audiences everywhere. The band has also expanded its live lineup with the addition of bassist Dane Taylor, whose arrival brings a renewed surge of energy and chemistry to the stage. His presence strengthens the group’s momentum as they push their sound forward while remaining true to the identity that has defined AITTALA from the beginning.

  "Ill-Gotten Gains" (released Nov 21, 2025) is available from Exitus Stratagem Records - https://hypeddit.com/aittala/illgottengains​​

  Track Listing:​
  1. Isolation - 4:22
  2. Ill Gotten Gains - 4:20
  3. Black Listed - 3:35
  4. Ever After - 4:29
  5. Ashes - 3:50
  EP Length: 20:37

  For more info: Exsrmusic.com | Aittala.com | Facebook.com/aittalamusic | Instagram.com/aittalamusic

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