Search Results: canada

• DEVOLVER's New Music Video “Wraiths” Captures The Camaraderie of Fans Under The Alberta Sky

  Nov 14, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  L-R: Jayde Penner (guitar), Bevin Booth (drums), Jaylen Elias (bass), Devin Babcock (guitar), Chris Brown (vocals)

  Photo Credit - Heidi Robertson

  Grande Prairie, Canada’s own metal force, Devolver, has dropped a powerful new music video for “Wraiths,” a standout track from their latest album "Non Compos Mentis." Filmed during an intimate album release show at Grain Bin Brewing, the video captures the raw energy and camaraderie of a night that brought 150 fans together under the Alberta sky, immortalizing a night of celebration, community, and crushing riffs.
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  ​“We knew we wanted to do something special. So we had our friend Mike Evans film the show. This music video is for all the people who were there celebrating with us, making it such a special night,” adds the band.
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  ​“Wraiths” is a groove-driven, straight-ahead metal track with thrash undertones and a nod to classic rock and metal. Lyrically, it explores themes of mysticism as a bridge to connect with lost loved ones, an emotional depth that complements its sonic punch.

  Formed in 2015 by guitarist Devin Babcock and drummer/producer Bevin Booth, Devolver has grown from a side project into a full-fledged metal powerhouse. With the addition of Jayde Penner (guitar), Chris Brown (vocals), and Jaylen Elias (bass), the band’s sound has matured into a collaborative blend of Gothenburg-style melodic death metal and early 2000s metalcore.
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  Their new album, produced by metal heavyweight Mark Lewis (Trivium, Whitechapel, The Black Dahlia Murder), marks a seismic shift in their sound.

  “This is what the five of us sound like collaborating as a unit. Mark helped us push this thing over the edge,” adds the band.

  
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  The album’s artwork, created by legendary artist Travis Smith (Opeth, Megadeth), is a chilling visual interpretation of the true story behind the title track. It depicts Devin Babcock’s ancestor, Amos Babcock, who in 1805 committed a gruesome murder in Shediac, New Brunswick, during a religious frenzy. The haunting image of Amos in the snow, surrounded by the eyes of his nine children, adds a historical and emotional weight to the album’s narrative.
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  ​Devolver’s connection to their hometown runs deep. They partnered with Grain Bin Brewing to create “Brews of the Maw,” a blackberry and blood orange pale ale named after their track “Jewels of the Maw.” And for fans of Magic: The Gathering, the band has hidden lyrical nods throughout the album, including a track titled “Deathtouch.”

  Recommended for fans of In Flames, Dark Tranquillity, Killswitch Engage, and As I Lay Dying, "Non Compos Mentis" is a bold leap forward, each track a chapter in a larger emotional and sonic narrative.

  "Non Compos Mentis" (released Aug 22nd) is available at the following links:

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

  Spotify for Playlist Add - https://open.spotify.com/album/3eeLxBrxx55QvIm3EnahLm​​

  Track Listing:​
  1. Deathtouch – 3:55
  2. New Blood – 3:14
  3. Jewels of the Maw – 3:30
  4. Wraiths – 3:20
  5. At Any Cost – 3:40
  6. Non Compos Mentis – 3:53
  7. Merciless Storm – 3:56
  8. Suffocating Syndrome – 3:36
  9. Dehumanize – 3:47
  Album Length: 32:55

  Band Lineup:​
  Chris Brown - Vocals
  Devin Babcock - Guitar (lead)
  Jayde Penner - Guitar (rhythm)
  Bevin Booth - Drums
  Jaylen Elias - Bass

  More info: https://linktr.ee/devolverab​

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• THE JUDGE THE JUROR Unleashes Genre-Bending PsyDeathTechProg EP “Primitive Minds” + Video “Your Vice is a Locked Door”

  Nov 7, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Western Canada’s most electrifying metal experimenters, The Judge The Juror, have officially dropped their new EP, "Primitive Minds", out today, November 7th, 2025. Alongside the release, the band has unveiled a crushing new music video for the opening track “Your Vice is a Locked Door”, offering fans a visual descent into their self-coined genre: PSYDEATHTECHPROG, a fusion of psychedelic, progressive, technical death metal that defies categorization and redefines sonic boundaries. The band invented the term PSYDEATHTECHPROG as both a descriptor and a tongue-in-cheek jab at metal’s obsession with micro-genres.

  
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  ​"Primitive Minds" explores the paradox of modern humanity: how our ancient instincts clash with the hyper-digital world we inhabit. The EP’s three tracks, “Your Vice is a Locked Door,” “Helciconian Optivisior,” and “HYPERCUBE (Unfolding),” each dissect a different facet of this existential tension, from algorithmic manipulation to emotional fragmentation.
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  ​“Your Vice is a Locked Door” delivers a punishing critique of social media’s commodification of identity. “Helciconian Optivisior” offers a mesmerizing sonic assault, reflecting the struggle to connect beyond distorted lenses, while “HYPERCUBE (Unfolding)” ventures into cosmic tech-death territory, exploring internal battles and societal exploitation.
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  The EP artwork, created by guitarist Scotty Oakes, is a painted psychedelic interpretation of the human mind, visually complementing the band’s cerebral themes.
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  Formed in Edmonton, AB by members of local acts Vespertine Battle Scene and Driven to Exile, The Judge The Juror consists of David (vocals/synth), Blaise (guitar), Scotty (guitar), Merrick (bass), and Nick (drums). Their collaborative writing process blends brutal riffage, experimental synths, and progressive structures into a sound that’s as weird as it is exhilarating.
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  Fans can expect two more EPs, "Medieval Institutions" (Early 2026) and "Godlike Technologies" (Mid-2026), completing the trilogy that chronicles the downfall of the human condition.
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  Influenced by genre giants like Meshuggah, Cynic, Between the Buried and Me, and VOLA, the band has carved out a niche for fans of Born of Osiris, The Browning, and Enter Shikari.

  "Primitive Minds" is available now on all major platforms - https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/thejudgethejuror/primitive-minds​

  In additional news, The Judge The Juror will be unveiling "Primitive Minds" and more at their local EP Release show in Edmonton, AB on November 7th at Bunkers Live Pub (615 Hermitage RD NW) alongside Shackled To The Throne, Valley Of Despair, and Decrepitation. Event Info - https://www.facebook.com/events/1183563156934083/

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  Track Listing:​
  1. Your Vice is a Locked Door - (4:36)
  2. Heliconian Optivisor - (3:40)
  3. HYPERCUBE (Unfolding) - (2:59)

  More info: https://linktr.ee/thejudgethejurorofficial​

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• Streaming Now! Kelowna's CEPHEIDAE VARIABLE Unveils Debut Prog Album "Primordial Reverie" - A Sonic Journey Through Emotion, Evolution, and Imagination

  Nov 6, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Cepheidae Variable, the solo project of Canadian musician Ryan Koepke, will unleash its debut full-length album, "Primordial Reverie," on November 7th, a sweeping instrumental work that blends progressive metal, symphonic textures, and sci-fi soundscapes into a deeply personal and cinematic listening experience.
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  Originally conceived as a casual creative outlet, Cepheidae Variable took on new meaning following Koepke’s father’s cancer diagnosis. The emotional weight of that moment, combined with the joy of becoming an expecting father himself, transformed the project into a passionate pursuit of musical storytelling.
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  ​“I stopped waiting around and decided to create something I’d be proud of. This album mirrors the turbulence and hope I was experiencing in my life,” says Koepke.

  Described in five words: spacey, weird, melodic, melancholic, happy, "Primordial Reverie" is a genre-defying instrumental concept album built around three distinct acts. It opens with orchestral fantasy-inspired compositions and gradually shifts toward complex, synth-driven sci-fi arrangements. The album’s structure reflects Koepke’s evolving musical tastes and life experiences, with each track supporting the next like chapters in a book.
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  ​“I wanted to release an album that felt like a journey. Each song has its own identity, but recurring motifs and tonal shifts tie everything together,” explains Koepke.
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  From the uplifting energy of the single “Carving a Dragon” to the darker, more orchestrated depths of “Singularity,” the album invites listeners to craft their own narrative through sound. Koepke’s writing process is highly visual, often sparked by imagery or abstract themes, and guided by a desire to build immersive sonic environments.

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  ​"Primordial Reverie" is designed to be experienced as a complete piece, though its singles offer standalone energy and accessibility. Koepke anticipates fans will gravitate toward different halves of the album, some drawn to the melodic, symphonic opening tracks, others to the chaotic, experimental second act.
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  ​“I think fans of progressive metal will find something to enjoy, even if not every song fits neatly into genre definitions,” adds Koepke.

  
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  The album cover, created by renowned collage artist Alex Eckman-Lawn, evokes themes of loneliness, wonder, and cosmic mystery. Its abstract beauty heavily influenced the album’s tonal evolution.
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  Musically, Cepheidae Variable draws inspiration from bands like Dream Theater, Haken, Intervals, Wintersun, and Caligula’s Horse, while maintaining a distinct voice shaped by Koepke’s improvisational roots and cinematic ambitions.
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  Koepke plans to continue developing Cepheidae Variable, potentially expanding beyond instrumental work and solo production, and reach a goal of releasing a new album every 2–4 years. Fans can expect future full-length projects that build on the emotional and thematic depth of "Primordial Reverie."​
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  ​“This album means a lot to me. The ups and downs in the music reflect what I was going through, and it brings me joy to share it with others.”​
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  ​"Primordial Reverie" will be available on all major streaming platforms and CD on November 7th, 2025, and before it officially releases, it can be heard via its full stream premiere on Bravewords HERE.

  Digital Album pre-save (out Nov 7th) "Primordial Reverie" - https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/cepheidaevariable/primordial-reverie

  CD Album pre-order - https://cepheidaevariable.bandcamp.com/album/primordial-reverie

  Track Listing:​
  1. Overture (3:11)
  2. Carving a Dragon (4:04)
  3. The Waiting Storm (3:13)
  4. Zephyr of Ouroboros (9:15)
  5. Encounter (5:53)
  6. The Conduit (6:03)
  7. Chromatic Haven (5:11)
  8. Entropic Harvester (10:27)
  9. Singularity (11:32)
  Album Length: 58:53

  For more info: https://cepheidaevariable.com/

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• ​WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA Opens Band Submissions For 2026 - One Band To Rule Them All! and Play Wacken Open Air!

  Oct 23, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  One band to rule them all! Wacken Metal Battle Canada returns for 2026 battles across the country to send one independent metal band to play at Wacken Open Air, one of the world's most prestigious and largest metal festivals.

  Band submissions for Canada are now open until November 30th.

  "Canadian metal bands, this is your chance once again. This is the first step to a world of opportunity waiting for you. We invite you to play some great shows, expand your audience, and ultimately have your shot at playing Wacken Open Air," adds WMBC organizer JJ Tartaglia.

  Canadian bands interested in participating can apply at https://www.metal-battle.com/countries/ (please select Canada as your country)

  The national final for 2026 battles will be held in Montreal, QC.

  Canadian Battle Cities:​
  Vancouver, BC
  Vancouver Island, BC
  BC Interior
  Edmonton, AB
  Toronto, ON
  Hamilton, ON
  Ottawa, ON
  Montreal, QC
  Quebec City, QC

  Watch - Wacken Metal Battle 2025 - Aftermovie | Have You Heard the Future of Metal? - https://youtu.be/nCulXiLlaSw

  The 2026 WMBC champion will receive the following:
  - A slot at the 2026 Wacken Open Air Festival.
  - Full professional backline provided.
  - $1,000 CAD towards flights to Germany.
  - VIP camping at the festival.

  List of previous WMBC national winners: Killotine (Hamilton, ON - 2025), Beguiler (Toronto, ON – 2024), Strigampire (Trois-Rivières, QC – 2023), The Slyde (Toronto, ON – 2019), Centuries of Decay (Toronto, ON – 2018), Profaner (Hamilton, ON – 2016), Vesperia (Toronto, ON – 2015), Mutank (Montreal, QC – 2014), Crimson Shadows (Toronto, ON – 2013).

  The 2025 Canadian Battle Final took place on May 31st at Vancouver’s Rickshaw Theatre, where Hamilton, Ontario’s KILLOTINE, the Ontario regional winner, delivered a standout performance that earned them the top national title. A panel of industry judges selected KILLOTINE to represent Canada at the prestigious International Wacken Battle, held during Wacken Open Air from July 30th to August 2nd in Wacken, Germany, where over 85,000 metal fans from around the globe gathered.
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  Joining KILLOTINE on stage at the Canadian final were fellow regional champions: SOULTHIEF (Eastern Canada Winner – Ottawa, ON), BEYOND SUFFERING (Alberta Winner – Calgary, AB), and YEGG (British Columbia Winner – Nanaimo, BC). The event also featured a special guest headliner: Vancouver’s Arrow In The Quiver, the 2024 BC Final winner.
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  The national judging panel included a lineup of respected figures from the Canadian metal and music industry: 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 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).

  For the last 9 years of battles (2013-2016, 2018-2019, 2023-2025), Wacken Metal Battle Canada has hosted battles across the country to send one independent metal band to perform at the world’s largest metal festival, Wacken Open Air in Wacken, Germany. 2019 saw the festival celebrate its 30th anniversary, but due to COVID, the 2020 and 2021 editions were both canceled. As the metal community regains its strength, Wacken Open Air 2026 will be the 35th edition of the festival and will be held from July 29th to August 1st. The 2026 event is nearly sold out with a line-up that includes Def Leppard, Lamb Of God, In Flames, Savatage, Powerwolf, Emperor, Sepultura, and Running Wild, among others. Details here.

  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 over 55 other 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 and give independent bands the opportunity 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 2026 and compete against the winners of other participating countries in a final global battle. All bands will be judged during battle rounds by respected local music industry representatives.

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

  Links:​
  ​Metal-Battle.com​​
  ​Facebook.com/WMBCanada.official​
  ​X.com/MetalBattleCan​
  ​Instagram.com/wmbcanada.official

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• DAWN VALLY Unleash Jailhouse Rage with New Single “Graves” Off Forthcoming EP Out In 2026

  Oct 10, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

   

  Canadian metalcore outfit Dawn Vally has dropped their latest single, “Graves,” a punishing, raw track that marks a new chapter in the band’s evolution. Formed in 2007 by twin brothers Jeff (bass) and Joe Bartolo (drums), Dawn Vally has built a reputation for delivering aggressive, high-intensity music that blends metalcore and deathcore with fearless originality.
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  ​“Graves” is the second single from the band’s upcoming EP, slated for release in early 2026. It’s also the first recording to feature new vocalist Zac Emmons, formerly the guitarist of hardcore band Pound Of Flesh. Zac joined the band earlier this year, bringing a visceral lyrical style rooted in personal experience.

  “Graves lyrically is a song about betrayal and the emotions that come with it. I went into a dark place in my mind to get the words,” says Zac.
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  Musically, “Graves” builds on the foundation laid by their previous album, "Blueprints of the 416," but pushes the intensity even further. With punishing breakdowns and relentless energy, the track is already being hailed as Dawn Vally’s heaviest release to date.
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  The single’s artwork, created by Paul Padgett of Eightfold Visuals, features a horror-tinged jailhouse setting that perfectly complements the song’s themes of emotional confinement and rage.
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  ​Dawn Vally’s sound is a collaborative effort, shaped by the eclectic influences of its members. While metalcore and deathcore dominate, the band draws from jazz, classic rock, and hardcore to create a sonic landscape that’s both brutal and nuanced. Guitarist Antonio Bratta, a classically trained musician with a jazz background, adds a unique layer to the band’s dynamic compositions.
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  With plans to expand their reach across Canada in 2026, Dawn Vally is preparing for tours both out west and east. Their live shows promise the same raw energy and sonic devastation that fans have come to expect.

  For fans of Whitechapel, Parkway Drive, BMTH, and Hatebreed, Dawn Vally is a band that doesn’t just play metal; they live it.

  “Graves” is now streaming on all major platforms, along with its music video filmed and created by Brett and Hayley Wright, who have worked with other artists such as LÜZR, Seagrave, and CRUELINTENT.

  Add to your Spotify playlist - https://ampl.ink/ezq3P​

   

  More info: https://linktr.ee/Dawn_Vally

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