Search Results: calgary

• WOODHAWK Returns with Emotionally Charged Third Album “Love Finds a Way”

  Jun 5, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  L to R: Kevin Nelson (Drums), Turner Midzain (Vocals/ Guitar), Mike Badmington (Bass/ Vocals)

  Portrait by Mark Kowalchuk

  Five years since their last full-length release, Calgary stoner groove rock trio Woodhawk unveils their most ambitious and personal work yet with “Love Finds a Way” available as of June 6th across all platforms. The album marks a significant milestone for the band, Turner Midzain (guitar/vocals), Mike Badmington (bass), and Kevin Nelson (drums), representing their longest creative process to date and showcasing a more mature, introspective approach to their signature sound.

  “This is the longest it's taken to put out an album for us, and I think that shows”, reflects Midzain. "We really took our time and did it on our terms. I think you get some really riff-rocking songs, but also a lot of hardship and honesty in them. We poured our heart and soul into this one. It really is a journey of getting out of the darkness and into the light. Check in with your friends and loved ones. Hug the ones you love. Be nicer to each other. Love will always prevail and be stronger than anything else. After 10 years of being a band, I feel like we are still just getting started!”

  “Love Finds a Way” demonstrates Woodhawk's evolution from their early stoner rock roots into something more emotionally complex while maintaining the infectious grooves and memorable hooks that have defined their sound. The album brings ‘a bit more of the riff back’ while diving deep into lyrical content that explores the personal struggles the band has faced over recent years.

  True to their philosophy that the album should be an experience from start to finish, Woodhawk has crafted “Love Finds a Way” as a cohesive journey with carefully considered dynamics, balancing soft and heavy, slow and fast moments throughout.

  The album features contributions from longtime collaborator Jesse Gander on synth, maintaining the band's commitment to their established sonic palette while exploring new emotional territories. It is recommended for fans of The Sword, Red Fang, and Thin Lizzy.

  Listen to the album's full stream premiere via Doomed & Stoned HERE.

  Album pre-order (out June 6th): https://woodhawk.bandcamp.com​

  Spotify - https://spoti.fi/3RQO83S​

  In aditional news, Woodhawk will be announcing at a later time, upcoming tour dates for August and October and will be performing two album releases show in Edmonotn (June 14) and Calgary (June 13) plsu day three of this year's LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR FESTIVAL on August 3rd in Drumheller, AB alongside Revocation, Cyborg Octopus, Beguiler, Thirteen Goats, Famous Strangers, and more! Full details on LAH can be found at www.loudashell.ca.

  Show Dates:​
  June 13 - Edmonton, AB - The Buckingham (Album Release Show) - info​
  June 14 - Calgary, AB - The Palomino (Album Release Show) - info​
  Aug 3 - Drumheller, AB - Loud As Hell Open Air

  Track Listing:​
  1. Grave Shaker – 4:41
  2. Strangers Ever After – 4:24
  3. Truth Be Told – 7:21
  4. White Crosses – 6:10
  5. The Unholy Hand – 5:21
  6. No Place For Hate – 5:18
  7. Love Finds a Way – 6:16
  8. Relapser – 4:52
  9. Killing Time – 8:37

  Woodhawk is:
  Turner Midzain – Guitar & Vocals
  Mike Badmington – Bass & Vocals
  Kevin Nelson - Drums

  More info:​
  ​https://www.woodhawkriffs.com​
  ​https://www.instagram.com/woodhawkriffs​
  ​https://www.facebook.com/woodhawkriffs

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• DECIMATE METALFEST Adds QUIETUS To 2025 LINEUP w/ INTO ETERNITY, THE BUNNY THE BEAR, UNTIMELY DEMISE, NECHT, AND MORE!

  Jun 3, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Decimate Metalfest announces the addition of Edmonton progressive metal band QUIETUS to their 2025 lineup, which features INTO ETERNITY, THE BUNNY THE BEAR, UNTIMELY DEMISE, NECHT, and more!

  DMF returns to the Millet Agriplex Arena in Millet, Alberta, on June 13th and 14th, 2025, for another electrifying weekend of heavy metal music and community spirit. As one of Western Canada's premier metal festivals, Decimate Metalfest continues to deliver unforgettable experiences for metal enthusiasts of all kinds!

  The 2024 edition of Decimate Metalfest was a monumental success, featuring an impressive lineup of bands from across Canada and the United States. Attendees were treated to performances spanning various alternative and metal genres, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration. The festival's commitment to inclusivity was evident, welcoming fans of all ages and all walks of life to partake in the festivities. Highlights included thrilling air guitar contests with real guitars as prizes, an array of vendors, gaming, delectable offerings from local food, and the convenience of nearby camping facilities. ​“We are so grateful to the community of Millet for welcoming us with such open arms. We cannot wait to see you all again this year!”

  Building on the momentum of previous years, Decimate Metalfest 2025 promises to elevate the experience even further. Organizers have diligently curated a roster of bands that will deliver high-octane performances. This year's festival promises to be the biggest yet, featuring an incredible lineup of talent from across Canada and beyond:

  Decimate Metalfest 2025 Lineup Spotify Playlist: https://spoti.fi/4l4TbLb

  INTO ETERNITY – Regina, SK
  THE BUNNY THE BEAR – New York / Florida, USA (First time playing in Alberta!)
  FAMOUS STRANGERS – Edmonton, AB
  UNTIMELY DEMISE – Saskatoon, SK
  HAWKING – Vancouver, BC
  NECHT – Calgary / Ireland
  THE UNENDING – Kelowna, BC
  SYRYN – Calgary, AB
  BRAIN STEM – Edmonton, AB
  AGE OF ASHES – Edmonton, AB
  ALMOST DEAD – San Francisco, USA (First time in Canada!)
  FLOODGATE – Kelowna, BC
  SKEPSIS – Edmonton, AB
  THE 21ST AGENDA – Red Deer, AB
  WARWOLF – Edmonton, AB
  OCEANS UNDER STARS – Edmonton, AB
  QUIETUS – Edmonton, AB
  SUPERMODEL TAXIDERMY – Fort McMurray, AB
  BEYOND SUFFERING – Calgary, AB (Wacken Metal Battle Canada Alberta Winners)
  ACCIDENTS HAPPEN – Edmonton, AB (System of a Down Tribute Band)
  VICTORIA LIES – Calgary, AB
  COUNTED AMONG SAINTS – Edmonton, AB
  PER VELUM (YOUTH) – Calgary, AB
  KRADYIL (YOUTH) – Banff, AB
  BIRTHDAY GIRL – Calgary, AB (Hostess of Ceremonies)
  RED SILENCE – Edmonton, AB
  DAMIEN GHOUL – Edmonton, AB
  MORTIS X – Edmonton, AB
  ABOYACTUALLY – Edmonton, AB
  JOJOMOJO – Edmonton, AB

  Ticket Information: https://www.decimatemetalfest.com/tickets​

  Advance tickets are now available, offering attendees the opportunity to secure their spots at a discounted rate:​

  2-Day Pass: $135 (Save $15 off the door price)
  Includes access to both days of music and entertainment, plus a free pancake breakfast.
  ​
  Friday Day Pass: $60 (Save $15 off the door price)
  Includes access to Friday's performances.
  ​
  Saturday Day Pass: $90 (Save $15 off the door price)
  Includes access to Saturday's performances and a free pancake breakfast.
  ​
  YES! WE OFFER AFTERPAY!

  Children 10 and under can attend for free, making this an inclusive event for families! ​

  Camping Accommodations

  For those wishing to stay close to the action, camping is available at the Millet Lions Memorial Campground, conveniently located within walking distance of the Millet Agriplex Arena. Camping rates are not-for-profit and go towards maintaining the wonderful community of Millet! Please note that camping reservations must be made separately through the campground's official website: https://milletlionscampground.com/reserve-campsite/​

  Vendor and Volunteer Applications Now Open

  Decimate Metalfest is now accepting applications for vendors and volunteers! Whether you want to showcase your business to passionate festival-goers or become an essential part of the event team, we welcome you to apply. Vendors can take advantage of the opportunity to sell their products to a dedicated audience while volunteers gain behind-the-scenes experience and help bring the festival to life. (Yes! We accept Youth volunteers!)

  Vendor Applications: https://www.decimatemetalfest.com/vend​

  Volunteer Applications: https://www.decimatemetalfest.com/volunteer​

  Join the Metal Community

  Decimate Metalfest is more than just a music festival; it's a gathering of the metal family, fostering connections and creating lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned metalhead or new to the scene, this festival offers an unparalleled experience of music, camaraderie, and community.​

  Stay Connected

  For the latest updates, lineup announcements, and ticket purchases, visit the official Decimate Metalfest website. Follow us on social media to stay in the loop:​

  Website: https://www.decimatemetalfest.com/​

  Facebook: Decimate Metalfest Facebook Page​

  Instagram: Decimate Metalfest Instagram​

  Linktree: Linktree

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• KILLOTINE Wins WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA 2025 To Play Wacken Open Air!

  Jun 2, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Photo Credit - Derek Carr - Visions In Pixels​

  WMBC 2025 Final Spotify Playlist - https://spoti.fi/3Z55AFy​

  One band to rule them all! The final four bands from this year's 2025 battles for Wacken Metal Battle Canada gathered in Vancouver, BC, for the national final on May 31st at the Rickshaw Theatre. Only one unsigned Canadian band can walk away and be crowned champion to move on to perform at one of the world's most prestigious and largest already sold-out metal festivals, Wacken Open Air (July 30th – August 2nd) (Attendance of over 80,000 people in Wacken, Germany for over 30 years).

  Crowning this year's 2025 winner is Hamilton, ON's KILLOTINE (Ontario Winner), who, after their performance, a panel of industry judges voted as Canada's top band to play at the International Wacken Battle at Wacken Open Air. They performed alongside SOULTHIEF (Ottawa, ON - Eastern Canada Winner), BEYOND SUFFERING (Calgary, AB - Alberta Winner), and YEGG (Nanaimo, BC - British Columbia Winner). The special guest headliner was 2024 BC final winner, Vancouver's Arrow In The Quiver​.

  “What a finals we’ve just had in Vancouver. It's so nice to see the level of the bands and the great performances from all of them. The result is that we’ve got something special this year: Killotine is the chosen one. This band has a career waiting for them, and the real beginning of that journey will be at Wacken Open Air. This really enforces what the Metal Battle is all about and how we are nurturing the next generation, the future of metal,” comments Canadian Organizer of Wacken Metal Battle Canada, JJ Tartaglia.

  This year's panel of national final judges consisted of BRITTNEY SLAYES (Unleash The Archers), JJ TARTAGLIA (Canadian Organizer of Wacken Metal Battle Canada), JJ CAITHCART (Founder of SCRAPE Records and Host of Different Stages Radio), KRIS SCHULZ (Founder of Empower Through Music and Owner of Horizon School of Music), ABELARDO MAYORAL (Founder, Owner, and Operator of The Invisible Orange and OrangeTickets), STAN SCHINNERS (Owner of Broken Neck Radio), JUSTIN DOBBIN (Owner and President of Main Stage Rehearsal Studios).

  About The Final Four:

  Hamilton, ON's KILLOTINE is the hammer that falls without warning—relentless, unforgiving, and all-consuming. Their riffs shred through the air like jagged steel, solos burn with a fury that can’t be tamed, and blasts hit like an explosion in your chest. They don’t care about trends or softening the blow. Every note is a direct attack, every show a brutal assault. Headbanging is inevitable, the adrenaline is relentless, and the chaos is total. This is metal in its rawest, most savage form. With their “take everything, leave only metal” mentality, Killotine isn’t here to play nice. They deliver exactly what the maniacs demand—pure, unfiltered aggression. No filler, no fake. Just a full-throttle, all-out assault that doesn’t let up, leaving you wrecked and addicted to the chaos. KILLOTINE IS COMING. STAY OUT OF THE WAY OR GET DESTROYED.

  
  

  https://linktr.ee/killotinemetal

  ==========

  Ottawa, ON's SOULTHIEF is a crossover band known for their powerful and fun sound that combines elements of melodic hardcore, thrash metal, beatdown, slam, and punk. Formed in early 2021, the band has garnered a reputation for its intense live performances and dynamic songwriting.

  Their discography includes several notable releases, with their albums “Citadel” and "The Bad Kind of Wet” receiving praise for their energy and musical depth. Tracks like "You Could be my Gwen Stacy" and "Rupture" are often highlighted as fan favorites, showcasing the band's ability to craft memorable hooks and crowd-engaging lyrics.

  Soulthief has built a loyal following through their extensive touring and energetic live shows. They have performed at various venues and festivals, earning a reputation for delivering high-impact performances that resonate with audiences. Playing with bands like Stick to Your Guns, Within Destruction, MadBall, Get the Shot, Left to Suffer, Guilt Trip, Sworn Enemy, Hoods, Vctms, Teeth, and many more

  Soulthief has continued to evolve and push the boundaries of their craft. Their dedication to their musical performance and their passionate fanbase have cemented their place in any music scene they show up in.

  
  

  https://www.soulthief.ca

  ==========

  Calgary, AB's BEYOND SUFFERING is a five-piece melodic metal band with roots in thrash and metalcore. With founding member and lead guitarist Rob Vargo, they blend intense riffs and rhythmic complexities of deathcore with melodic hooks and emotional depth of hardcore. Their recent pre-release demo, “Buddha,” is a great buildup to the upcoming “Darkness” and subsequent response “Light” EPs later this year.

  
  

  https://www.facebook.com/BeyondSuffering

  =========

  Nanaimo, BC's old school death metal YEGG is a band that stays true to their roots. Drawing inspiration from iconic bands like Death, Obituary, Morbid Angel, and Cannibal Corpse, YEGG delivers a relentless assault of pure, unadulterated old school Death Metal. Their live shows are a sight to behold with intense energy and a ferocious wall of pure aggression that will.

  
  

  https://linktr.ee/yeggmetal

  ================

  About The Battle:

  Wacken Metal Battle Canada is part of an international competition that sees bands from across the country battle each other for the chance to win their spot among 30 different countries’ champions, and represent Canada in an international battle of the bands at the world’s largest outdoor metal festival: Wacken Open Air. The battles have been hosted at the festival for over a decade, allowing independent bands to showcase their talents to an international audience, along with the chance to win multiple prizes.

  How it works:
  ​Participating cities will host qualifying rounds plus a city final organized by a local city concert promoter, where one band will move forward to the Canadian national final (date and city to be determined). The winner of the national final will move on to perform at the Wacken Open Air 2025 and compete against the winners of 29 other countries in a final global battle. All battle rounds are judged by respected local music industry representatives.

  Rules for participation: https://www.metal-battle.com/rules/​

  Links:​
  ​Metal-Battle.com​​
  ​Facebook.com/WMBCanada.official​
  ​Twitter.com/MetalBattleCan​
  ​Instagram.com/MetalBattleCanada.Official

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• Calgary's LOVER Announces Performance at Armstrong Metal Fest 2025 + Limited Edition Cassette For EP "Fatal Attraction" Out June 2025

  May 22, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  High intensity, no filler rockers, Calgary's LOVER announces they will be performing at this year's Armstrong Metal Fest (July 11/12), one of Canada's loudest mountain moshpits nestled in the beautiful backdrop of British Columbia's Okanagan Valley.

  The band is playing in support of their latest EP "Fatal Attraction", which the thrashback metallers will be releasing on limited edition cassette on June 20th, 2025. "Fatal Attraction" is fast, it's real, and it's meant to kick you in the face! Even though the EP is only two tracks, this is a sampler of more to come. The opening title track is an energetic rush of sound that captures the ups and downs of being overwhelmed by desire. The lyrics feed this feeling by talking about lust and substance abuse. Track 2. "Bad Love" lyrically is a tough and mean reality check. It's based on a true story of love gone wrong. It has aggressive riffs, mean solos, and is meant to capture the strain of a mind in love and turmoil.

  "For real though, we used our real-life experiences of love, hardship, and lust to tell a story, and it just happens to be set to the tune of high-energy rock n roll," adds the band.

  Recommended for fans of Scorpions, Riot City, Wasp, Judas Priest, Van Halen, and Thin Lizzy, listen to "Fatal Attraction" at the following links:

  Digital Stream and cassette pre-order - https://loverrockofficial.bandcamp.com/album/fatal-attraction​

  Spotify - https://spoti.fi/43tjRNP

  ​

  Track Listing:​
  1- Fatal Attraction – 4:46
  2- Bad Love – 5:45

  EP and Live Lineup:​
  Aidan Desmarais – Lead Vocals, Guitar
  Hunter Raymond – Drums, Vocals
  Jacob Chase – Bass
  Christopher LoNigro – Guitar

  Show Dates:​
  July 11/12 - Hassen Arena - Armstrong Metal Fest - Armstrong, BC - https://armstrongmetalfest.ca/​

  More info: Facebook.com/loverrockofficial | Instagram.com/loverrockofficial

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• Calgary's LOVER Announces Performance at Armstrong Metal Fest 2025 + Limited Edition Cassette For EP "Fatal Attraction" Out June 2025

  May 22, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  High intensity, no filler rockers, Calgary's LOVER announces they will be performing at this year's Armstrong Metal Fest (July 11/12), one of Canada's loudest mountain moshpits nestled in the beautiful backdrop of British Columbia's Okanagan Valley.

  The band is playing in support of their latest EP "Fatal Attraction", which the thrashback metallers will be releasing on limited edition cassette on June 20th, 2025. "Fatal Attraction" is fast, it's real, and it's meant to kick you in the face! Even though the EP is only two tracks, this is a sampler of more to come. The opening title track is an energetic rush of sound that captures the ups and downs of being overwhelmed by desire. The lyrics feed this feeling by talking about lust and substance abuse. Track 2. "Bad Love" lyrically is a tough and mean reality check. It's based on a true story of love gone wrong. It has aggressive riffs, mean solos, and is meant to capture the strain of a mind in love and turmoil.

  "For real though, we used our real-life experiences of love, hardship, and lust to tell a story, and it just happens to be set to the tune of high-energy rock n roll," adds the band.

  Recommended for fans of Scorpions, Riot City, Wasp, Judas Priest, Van Halen, and Thin Lizzy, listen to "Fatal Attraction" at the following links:

  Digital Stream and cassette pre-order - https://loverrockofficial.bandcamp.com/album/fatal-attraction​

  Spotify - https://spoti.fi/43tjRNP

  ​

  Track Listing:​
  1- Fatal Attraction – 4:46
  2- Bad Love – 5:45

  EP and Live Lineup:​
  Aidan Desmarais – Lead Vocals, Guitar
  Hunter Raymond – Drums, Vocals
  Jacob Chase – Bass
  Christopher LoNigro – Guitar

  Show Dates:​
  July 11/12 - Hassen Arena - Armstrong Metal Fest - Armstrong, BC - https://armstrongmetalfest.ca/​

  More info: Facebook.com/loverrockofficial | Instagram.com/loverrockofficial

  Read more