Search Results: concert

  • LOUD AS HELL Open Air Festival Announces 2025 Lineup w/ REVOCATION, FIRST FRAGMENT, FILTH, INSURRECTION, GORGATRON, OPAL IN SKY and more!

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    LAH 2025 Lineup Spotify Playlist – https://spoti.fi/3XT8IUw

    From the barren expanse of sculpted sandstone, wind-carved hoodoos, and the vast canyons of Alberta, Canada's badlands, one of the country's loudest decibel-breaking extreme music events, LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR FESTIVAL announces its 2025 lineup with REVOCATION, FIRST FRAGMENT, FILTH, INSURRECTION, GORGATRON, OPAL IN SKY and more!

    Hosted in Drumheller, AB from August 1st to 3rd at the Dinosaurs Down Stampede, LAH showcases the best up-and-coming Canadian and international talent to roar through the country's largest dinosaur fossil grounds.

    This year's 13th annual festivities will witness technical death metal masters Revocation headline the Sunday, August 3rd lineup. The band unveiled their latest 2025 single and music video “Confines of Infinity,” featuring brutal guest vocals from Cattle Decapitation’s Travis Ryan. The single also marks the debut of a new Revocation lineup that sees vocalist and guitarist Dave Davidson joined by drummer Ash Pearson--who has been in the band since 2015--bassist Alex Weber and guitarist Harry Lannon. Revocation formed in 2006, and their self-released debut, Empire of the Obscene, came out in 2008. Since then, they've released seven critically acclaimed albums and have toured the world, bringing their technically charged, high-energy extreme metal to rabid fans in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. 

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    Also on the Sunday lineup will be Insurrection, the powerhouse metal band from Gatineau, Quebec, Canada. Formed over 20 years ago (2003), the band is known for its intense and energetic performances. Their sound is a unique twist of groovy death metal mixed with a healthy dose of thrash energy. The band has released several albums, including "Prologue" (2008), "Fracture" (2010), "Prototype" (2013), "Extraction" (2017), and "Obsolescence" (2024) (Bam Co. Heavy). Their music often addresses social and political themes through bilingual lyrics in both English and French. The band has gained a notable reputation on stage throughout Canada with tours covering coast to coast, including performances at festivals such as Montebello Rockfest, Trois-Rivières Metalfest, and Decimate Metalfest.

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    Headlining Saturday, Aug 2nd, Montreal, QC's First Fragment will display their virtuosity and demonstrate why they are so beloved globally for their Neoclassical/Technical Extreme Metal. The band broke ground with their debut EP "The Afterthought Ecstasy" (2010). Their latest two albums "Dasein" (2016), "Gloire éternelle(2021), and the latest instrumental compilation record "Le Recueuil Des Âges" (2024) have been released on Unique Leader Records. 

    Saturday will also feature LAH alumni Gorgatron, guttural Death Metal out of Fargo, North Dakota. Their sound is based on a “love of the riff” approach to writing and is rooted in the old-school stylings of Death Metal and Thrash. They have honed their style and work ethic with rigorous DIY tours across the States, Europe, Canada, and Mexico. They have a slew of records under their belts with their latest "Sentience Revoked" (2024) (Redefining Darkness Records) and just this past January they unleashed a digital EP "Live From the Basement". It was originally set to be released on Adult Swim's 'Fish Center Live' in 2020, but was shelved due to Adult Swim shutting down their livestream division that same year.

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    The festival's first day on Friday, Aug 1st will be headlined by hip-hop-influenced deathcore gutter gang Filth out of North Carolina. They dropped the next chapter in their discography, Southern Hostility, in April 2024.

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    Also on Friday are Vancouver, BC's Opal in Sky, twin brothers Tyson and Dylon Opalinsky. They share a deep passion for music and its limitless possibilities. Their music reflects their shared values and beliefs. They believe that music has the power to heal, uplift, and bring people together. They are committed to creating meaningful and enjoyable music, and their unique sound is a fusion of different styles and influences. They released their debut album, "Dream Shift," in July 2024.

    With a lineup featuring over 40 bands from across Canada, the USA, and Mexico, traveling the furthest from Europe is Vienna, Austria's Hog Meets Frog, a band fans don't want to miss. The trio is renowned for their eccentricity and boundary-pushing music that blends prog, funk, and metal.

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    Other highlights for this year's open-air are Toronto's Beguiler, champions of last year's 2024 Wacken Metal Battle Canada; the slamming deathcore of Arizona's Gore Pig; Mexico's Spit On Your Grave, showcasing their powerful, deep growls, blast beats, slam riffs, and heavy breakdowns, all infused with a melodic touch; and Vancouver's Thirteen Goats, with their signature blend of infernal riffs, huge hooks, and uniquely theatrical songwriting.

    Weekend Passes (Aug 1- 3) are available at https://loudashell.ca/shop/​

    This weekend pass grants you full access to all the headbanging, moshing, and metal mayhem that Loud As Hell Open Air offers.

    LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR 2025

    Thursday, July 31 – Kick Off Party
    ​    Vapor (California, USA)
    Display Of Decay (Edmonton, AB)
    Black Pestilence (Calgary, AB)
    Decrepitation (Edmonton, AB)
    ​
    ​Friday, August 1​
    Filth (Shelby, NC, USA)
    Auzzy Blood – Freak Show (Las Vegas, NV, USA)
    Opal In Sky (Vancouver, BC)
    Hazzardous Material – Burlesque (Alberta)
    Spit On Your Grave (Monterrey, Mexico)
    Hazzerd (Calgary, AB)
    Ascension Blacklist (Newburgh, ON)
    Black Friday (Edmonton, AB)
    Daniel Martin’s The Infamous (Edmonton, AB)
    ​
    ​Saturday, August 2​
    First Fragment (Montreal, QC)
    Kyle Pullan – Acoustic (Canmore, AB)
    Gorgatron (Fargo, ND, USA)
    Hazzardous Material – Burlesque (Alberta)
    Heartsick (Lansing, MI, USA)
    Judicator (Salt Lake City, UT, USA)
    Casket Robbery (Munroe, WI, USA)
    Kelevra (Regina, SK)
    Lycanthro (Ottawa, ON)
    Frontal Assault (Cedar Rapids, IA, USA)
    Cabrakaan (Calgary, AB)
    Spectre (Winnipeg, MB)
    Pridelands (Red Deer, AB)
    Pharm (Kelowna, BC)
    Beserker (Lethbridge, AB)
    ​
    ​Sunday, August 3​
    Revocation (Boston, MA, USA)
    Kyle Pullan – Acoustic (Canmore, AB)
    Insurrection (Gatineau, QC)
    Auzzy Blood – Freak Show (Las Vegas, NV, USA)
    Gorepig (Hot Springs, AZ, USA)
    Hazzardous Material – Burlesque (Alberta)
    Cyborg Octopus (San Francisco, CA, USA)
    Squidhammer (Waterton, WI, USA)
    Truent (Vancouver, BC)
    Beguiler (Toronto, ON)
    Reaping Asmodeia (Minneapolis, MN, USA)
    Endless Chaos (Winnipeg, MB)
    Hog Meets Frog (Vienna, Austria)
    Thirteen Goats (Vancouver, BC)
    Woodhawk (Calgary, AB)
    Famous Strangers (Edmonton, AB)

    Since its inception in 2012, LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR FESTIVAL has exposed hundreds of Canadian and international bands annually except for 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Their 2024 edition was host to the most stacked lineup to date featuring BEYOND CREATION, STRIKER, ANCIIENTS, GREEN JELLY, THE CONVALESCENCE, SUPER MONSTER PARTY, TERRIFIER, and lots more. Previous years have witnessed well-known bands such as Jungle Rot, Narcotic Wasteland, Necronomicon, Into Eternity, Goatwhore, Battlecross, Fit for An Autopsy, Anciients, Archspire, Unleash The Archers, Striker, KEN mode, Obey The Brave, Protest the Hero, AngelMaker, Divinity, Neck of The Woods, Endast among many more.

    Live LAH 2024 - Anciients - Despoiled - https://youtu.be/-E440Gax4ao​

    Live LAH 2024 - Terrifier - Depths Of The Storm Scepter - https://youtu.be/ZEm4ncOlbH4​

    Live LAH 2023 - Narcotic Wasteland - Sex, Lies and DNA - https://youtu.be/q-AraxYaEfA‪

    Live LAH 2023 - Jungle Rot - A Call To Arms - https://youtu.be/b5GCaJ--lZo​

    More info:
    ​    LoudAsHell.ca​
    ​Facebook.com/LoudAsHellFestival​
    Twitter: @LoudAsHellFest
    Instagram: @LoudAsHellFestival
    ​Social Media Hashtags #LAHXIII, #LAHOA, #LAHOA2025

    Festival Press Materials - Posters, Band Links, EPKs, Photos - HERE.​

    About:

    LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR FESTIVAL has hosted hundreds of Canadian and international bands annually since 2012 with the exception of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During its decade of showcasing Canadian and international bands, the festival has grown into a pilgrimage for metalheads from across the country.

    LOUD AS HELL OPEN AIR FESTIVAL 2025 will be celebrating its thirteenth festival event presented by Loud As Hell Productions, Jurassic Ink Custom Tattoo, Prairie Fire Events, and Asher Media Relations. LAH always works its hardest to deliver the best lineup in the West ready to melt your face off. Featuring bands from across Canada and beyond, you won’t want to miss any of it. And don’t forget about their freak shows, burlesque dancers, clinics, vendors, and dinosaurs!

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  • 15 Years of Mountain Moshing! ARMSTRONG METALFEST Unveils 2025 Lineup w/ BORN OF OSIRIS, HAVOK, GLYPH, RIOT CITY, THE BROWNING, VIRVUM and more!

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    Celebrating 15 Years of mountain moshing in British Columbia's Okanagan Valley, Armstrong MetalFest unveils its conquering 2025 lineup with BORN OF OSIRIS, HAVOK, GLYPH, RIOT CITY, THE BROWNING, VIRVUM and lots more from across Canada and beyond.

    Hosted on July 11th and 12th in Armstrong, BC at the Hassen Arena, this year's two days of moshing, headbanging, and camping is a very special one as festival council members comment:

    "The band council worked hard on this year's lineup. I am so excited to have the Browning back. They were amazing on stage. I have been wanting to see Born of Osiris play live for years. I love them, and now I get to see them in my own little town." - Heather Valstar, Vice President of West Metal Entertainment Society

    "I'm really excited about the diversity of this year's line-up. The selection team has really put in the work. There's sure to be something for everyone: a great mix of trusted favorites and new additions to your playlist for the rest of the year!" - Kate Kutzner, President of West Metal Entertainment Society

    "This year's festival is a work of art! I can't believe we are on the 15th year already. Time flies when you're setting up a festival full of crushing riffs, soaring vocals and down right nasty beats. Life rules, bring on the summer!" - Festival Co-Founder / General Manager - Jessie Valstar.

    AMF Weekend Passes are available at https://armstrongmetalfest.ca/tickets​

    All tickets provide general admission and grant access to the festival grounds, camping area, and arena from 9:00 AM on Friday, July 11, 2025, until 10:00 AM on Sunday, July 13, 2025. Free camping is included.

    ​(Tickets will be mailed starting after March 1st if you have chosen the "Ticket Mailed" option.)

    Headlining opening night, Friday, July 11th, Denver thrashers HAVOK are no strangers to the mosh pits, these veterans have unleashed five studio albums – Burn (2009), Time Is Up (2011), Unnatural Selection (2013), Conformicide (2017), V (2020) – and recently surprised fans this past November with the EP "New Eyes".

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    Also supporting the Friday night stage, the Pacific Northwest's Glyph (ft. members from Gatekeeper, Greyhawk, Hjelvik), which is not just a heavy metal band, they are a crew of intergalactic mercenaries escaping a dying planet in their spaceship, the VSS Dragonlord. Clearly, Glyph isn’t just writing songs, they’re building worlds and they bring it forth in their latest album "Honor, Power, Glory" released in March 2024.

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    Another highlight for Friday is the screaming heavy metal from Calgary's speed demons Riot City, who bring forth their steel, spikes and leather! A youthful band that represent the new face of Canadian metal. An amalgam of ripping and hot heavy metal, created in pure and youthful madness, they're bullet belts feature two full lengths "Electric Elite" (2022), "Burn The Night" (2019) and their latest live album "Live in Newcastle" (2023).

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    Saturday, July 12th will be headlined by international tour de force, progressive deathcore titans, Chicago's BORN OF OSIRIS. The group is signed to Sumerian Records and has released seven full lengths and two EPs. Their album, A Higher Place, reached number 73 on the Billboard 200. Their second full-length album, The Discovery, debuted at 87 on the Billboard 200. The band unveiled their latest single "In Desolation" this past August.

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    Also featured on Saturday is AMF alumni Kansas City's THE BROWNING who will be unleashing their unique eclectic blend of electronicore and deathcore. This past November, they released their sixth album "OMNI" that features 10 powerful tracks, including collaborations with Nik Nocturnal and the eponymous song with THE DEFECT.

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    Performing for the first time at AMF and adding to the nostalgia of Saturday night, VIRVUM, progressive / technical death metal all the way from Zürich, Switzerland that many in Canada have been waiting a long time to witness. There's no better place to see them along with the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies than at AMF 2025. 

    Other to be treasured highlights of this year's fest not to miss is Montreal, QC up and coming thrashers DROWNING IN BLOOD, who are notorious pit mongrels and have made quite a name for themselves in Eastern Canada. Vancouver's GRAVEMASS, they might be a new band, but they feature some serious experienced metalheads from Zimmers Hole, West of Hell, The Golers, Punch Drunk, 3 Inches of Blood and Revocation. Switzerland's technical death/black metal Stortregn, they deliver a mix of charging riffs, blast beats and brutality that leaves the listener begging for more. The Defect is an electronic rock/metal project created by husband and wife duo – Jonny McBee (The Browning) and Moon McBee. Their debut album "Death X Destiny" was recently released on Feb 7th, 2025 under record label FiXT. From the Salish lands of Spokane, WA, Hísemtuks Hími•n introduce their Indigenous melodic black metal of hard hitting riffs, fast paced drumming and a lot of melody. This project has strong roots in the Spokane Tribe/Nez Perce. Most songs are about Native American mythology, history, and folklore.

    AMF 2025 Lineup:​
    Havok (Denver, CO)
    Born of Osiris (Chicago, IL)
    Glyph (Seattle, WA)
    Riot City (Calgary, AB)
    The Browning (Kansas City, KS)
    Virvum (Zürich, Switzerland)
    Atavistia (Vancouver, BC)
    Drowning In Blood (Montreal, QC)
    Convictions (Fremont, OH)
    Scalding (Vancouver, BC)
    Syryn (Calgary, AB)
    Stortregn (Geneva, Switzerland)
    The Defect (Kansas City, KS)
    Gravemass (Vancouver, BC)
    Lover (Calgary, AB)
    Yegg (Vancouver Island, BC)
    Hísemtuks Hími•n (Spokane, WA)
    The Spruce Moose (Edmonton, AB)
    Volt (Fort McMurray, AB)
    Jisei (Vancouver, BC)
    Nomad (Okanagan Valley, BC)
    Planetkiller (Kelowna, BC)
    Shackled To The Throne (Edmonton, AB)
    The Cadavor Dog (High River, AB)
    Famous Strangers (Edmonton, AB)
    Valley of Despair (Edmonton, AB)
    Naitaka (Kelowna, BC)
    FloodGate (Kelowna, BC)

    In addition to the performing bands, Armstrong Metal Fest will be bringing back the following on-site activities: Yeti Games, Metal Madness Market, and Thrash Wrestling.

    Please Note: Camping - RV / Non-Hookup RV / Vehicle Passes: Make sure to reserve your vehicle spot to get the best location on the grounds. A fee is required for a weekend pass per vehicle in addition to your day or weekend pass. RV hookups include water and power. If you choose to park your vehicle outside the camping area in the main parking lot, then a vehicle pass is not required.

    For more info:​
    ​Armstrongmetalfest.ca
    ​    ​Facebook​
    ​Instagram​
    ​Twitter

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  • Aggro-Metal CHÜZO Announces Ontario Tour Dates + New Video "Bruised and Broken" Off Latest EP "M.T.M.D (Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay)"

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    Montreal aggro-metal troupe CHÜZO will be hitting the road in March for weekend warrior dates in Ontario for shows in Oshawa, Toronto, and Hamilton. The tour dates are in support of their latest EP "M.T.M.D (Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay)" unleashed this past October and produced with Kevin Jardine (Slaves On Dope, Uplift Recording Studio) (dates listed below).

    The band recently released their latest knock-out music video "Bruised and Broken".

    ​"This track is about being pushed, provoked, and instigated to the point of no return. When in life one encounters certain individuals whose existence is to only make you angry and enraged; to bully you and disrespect you beyond aggravation, and the inevitable result that losing your temper and seeing red does to the individual being provoked and instigated is what this track is about. The utter destruction and devastation that awaits the foolish person who dares to provoke a person who has been pushed to the edge of human insanity; fuck around and find out!" adds the band.

    CHÜZO's new EP "M.T.M.D (Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay)" is a three-track record that marks the next chapter and a true representation of what the quartet's sound is meant to be.

    "This new EP was to showcase our new lineup with our newest songs that are truly representative of our musical style, a style that we proudly call ‘Aggro-Metal.’ Very aggressive metal songs that have relatable themes that anyone can listen to and understand. This EP is our audio shotgun blast to the world to pay attention to and to mosh intensively during our live sets." adds guitarist Cristian S.

    CHÜZO's new lineup features the ensnaring vocals of Taiwanese Brazilian transplant Mischa M joining local first-generation Chilean Canadian and mastermind Cristian S. along with Carlos G from Venezuela and Alex S from Russia who all have found Montreal, Canada to be their home-to-breed their blender of grindcore, Swedish death metal, thrash, and hardcore punk to transform a sub-genre dubbed 'Aggro Metal'.

    The EP's lyrics are driven by self-reflection and daily struggles. The inspiration for writing comes from life experiences and trying to live past them, especially the traumatic ones. Using all bad energy from bad experiences to create something positive for yourself and the world. This EP speaks of vengeance and the bad side of dedicating your life to achieving your desired revenge despite your own life and sanity. Brutal Social Justice.

    For fans of Sepultura (Cavalera Bros era 84-96), At the Gates, Napalm Death, Slipknot, and Fuck the Facts, "M.T.M.D (Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay)" was released on November 15, 2024.

    EP Stream links below:

    Bandcamp - https://chuzomtl.bandcamp.com

    Digital (Spotify) - https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/chzo/mtmd

    ​​

    TOUR DATES​
    March 7 - Piranha Bar (Wacken Metal Battle) - Montréal, QC - info​
    March 14 - The Atria - Oshawa, ON - info​
    March 15 - Duffy’s Tavern - Toronto, ON - info​
    March 16 - Doors Pub - Hamilton, ON - info​

    More Info: Instagram.com/chuzo.band | Facebook.com/chuzo.band​

    -30-

    Canadian College Radio Loud Charts - December 2024 – top 20 loud #20 – CHÜZO – M.T.M.D.

    "‘A Brazilian vocalist, a Chilean guitarist, a Russian bassist and a Venezuelan drummer walk into a Montreal metal bar’ might sound like the beginning of a borderline funny joke, but it, in a roundabout way, speaks to the christening of thrash, punk, death-beat quartet CHÜZO. The band’s latest EP — M.T.M.D.(Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay) — is the latest in a long line of releases since forming in 2020 and sees the light of day today. The band has a lot to say about their latest endeavour, but fans of old Sepultura, Napalm Death, At the Gates and Fuck the Facts should find something of interest " - Decibel Magazine

    "“Bruised and Broken” is definitely a rager. Mischa and Christian belt out the words in a tandem of furious screams and monstrous roars. Behind them, the song discharges high-speed percussive obliteration and punk beats, a violent churn of high-grit riffage, and bowel-loosening bass-quakes. The band also work in mean-eyed slashing chugs, a brutalizing breakdown that seems to get more thuggish but no less head-hooking as the seconds pass, an explosion of boiling and battering grindcore mayhem, and another hardcore beatdown that’s probably a sure-fire mosh trigger in a live show — with Mischa‘s screaming voice still coming for your throat with no-holds-barred intensity. Just this one song proves that for Chüzo the label “Aggro Metal” isn’t false advertising. It’s a gut-slugging, bone-smashing, vocally blistering, and viciously eviscerating outburst, and it also proves to be a pretty addictive piece of rage-fueled catharsis too. Speaking of live shows, the video gives a good sense of what the band’s live sets are about, and a good sense of how much fun they had beating the shit out of things in that rage cage." - No Clean Singing

    "The band has just released M.T.M.D., an acronym that stands for Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay, to testify how high the group's ambitions are. The perspective could at first glance be assimilated to that of the variegated groove metal universe, but on closer inspection there is much more in the folds of the individual songs, characterized by the desire to release vital energy and give voice to impulses, emotions, feelings. The sound matrix is brutal, at times unstoppable, and characterized by the fierce performance of the gritty Mischa Mai microphones: combining power, imagination and a pinch of healthy madness the quartet gave full demonstration of their qualities." - Rock Hard Italy
    ​
    "M.T.M.D is a crucial chapter in Chüzo’s evolution, showcasing a lineup that’s finally found its voice. Their journey is a testament to the transformative power of music and the ability to channel personal struggles into a collective outcry for justice." - Amplify The Noise
    ​
    "It might be something of a cliché but it remains true; this isn’t simply an EP. It’s a promo for helping Chüzo find a major label for a debut full length… [8/10]" - Metal Noise
    ​
    "CHÜZO have achieved several things on "MTMD (Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay)" that other bands dream of for an entire career. On the one hand, the clever balancing act is impressive between old school credibility and new school influences. A factor that plays a striking role in the overall absolutely high-class work is that Canadians walk in a straightforward and focused manner in the ear. The three songs on the EP entitled "MTMD" are fast-paced in nature, mill into the ear canals at massive speed and –'s most important aspect – remains there... The EP is catchy, intense and yet has matured, multi-layered and serious Half-life to be equipped. Conclusion: Check in, buy, leave, killer!" - Metal Division Magazine    ​
    ​    ​
    ​"Their common points: knowing how to intelligently mix the best of grindcore mixed with Swedish death, with a touch of hardcore thrash from a punk perspective. Chüzo calls his music, « Aggro Metal ». The theme of their songs, telling their life experiences, shouting their anger at the traumas experienced. The kind of text that allows you to let off steam and make yourself understood even if you have gaps in English. Chüzo is a sort of best of aggressive metal music with this vengeful punk attitude: Chüzo would be a disciple of Napalm Death. Damn their music is good to hear. For fans of Sepultura and the Cavalera brothers, Chüzo is for you, Cristian S. sings with the same kind of vocal intonation as Max C. For Christmas, I would like Chüzo to tour the old continent within the next 2 years. If I had the means, I would participate financially in their future tour. There are small (et larger) concert halls waiting for you. The day we can do a concert at the Kjbi, Chuzo is automatically on the bill" - Margoth PDF Webzine

    --
    ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
    Jon Asher - Music Publicist
    #.514.581.5780
    jon[@]ashermediarelations[.]com
    Facebook @AsherMediaRelations
    Instagram @AsherMedia
    Tweet @AsherMedia

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  • MILE HIGH POWER FEST (Denver, CO) Announces 2025 Line Up w/ POWERGLOVE, GLYPH, OWLBEAR, EMPRESS, LYCANTHRO, CELESTIAL WIZARD and more!

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    Mile High Power Fest 2025 Spotify Playlist - https://spoti.fi/432isz9​

    In August 2024, Mile High Power Fest kicked off a new chapter for the Denver, Colorado power metal scene, and for local promoter BiteSize Productions. With an attendance of nearly 400 for its inaugural year, Mile High Power Metal Fest is proud to return on August 16th, once again at the Oriental Theater for its 2nd edition with its 2025 lineup featuring POWERGLOVE, GLYPH, OWLBEAR, EMPRESS, LYCANTHRO, CELESTIAL WIZARD and more! (details listed below).

    The Mile High Power Festival is a celebration of strength, unity, and the unyielding spirit of metal. Deeply rooted in Denver’s vibrant culture, it champions local talent and businesses while providing a stage for rising power metal bands to unleash their sound and seize the spotlight. Like the thunderous clash of steel against the Rocky Mountains, this festival delivers an unforgettable experience, forging connections and showcasing the future of power metal.

    "After an incredible debut in 2024, we’ve taken everything we learned from last year to make 2025 even more exciting. Expect a weekend filled with electrifying performances, an unbeatable atmosphere, and the energy that only power metal can deliver. Whether you’re a devoted fan or new to the scene, this festival is your chance to be part of something truly special. Don’t miss out on the energy, the excitement, and the chance to be part of Denver's next great tradition. Get your tickets now and experience the power for yourself at The Mile High Power Festival 2025—where metal and steel collide with the cold, untamed spirit of the Rocky Mountains!" adds festival co-founder Lucyfer - BiteSize Productions.

    Featuring headliner Boston's PowerGlove, the very beloved instrumental power metal cover band will present a night of nostalgic tributes to retro video game and television themes. The band released their latest EP "The Super Smash Bros" in August 2024.

    ​

    They are joined by the Pacific Northwest's Glyph, which is not just a heavy metal band, they are a crew of intergalactic mercenaries escaping a dying planet in their spaceship, the VSS Dragonlord. Clearly, Glyph isn’t just writing songs, they’re building worlds and they bring it forth in their latest album "Honor, Power, Glory" released in March 2024. 

    ​

    Formed in 2020 during a time in which plague stalked the land and time lost all meaning, the core of Owlbear is comprised of North American scene veterans Katheryn Scary (vocals), Jeff Taft (guitars), and Leona Hayward (bass), all of whom hail from different corners of the continent. The band made their live debut at the sold-out Legions of Metal festival in Chicago in 2024 in support of their debut album "Chaos to the Realm" (2023) (Alone Records). Musically, Owlbear draws influence from classic heavy and speed metal and roots their lyrics in the media its members love, from the famous roleplaying game that inspired the band’s namesake to the Final Fantasy franchise. Dynamic vocals, frenetic riffing, and bass that are equal parts pummeling and acrobatic drive the band’s relentless approach, and with the imminent release of their sophomore album "Feather & Claw" on February 28th, 2025 via Alone Records, Owlbear aims to continue to carve out its niche within the heavy metal community with a savage swipe of a plumed talon.

    ​

    Hailing from Philadelphia, Empress is a symphonic power metal quintet that loves weaving grand tales over catchy and triumphant symphonic soundscapes. Their critically acclaimed debut album, titled “Fateweaver” released in August 2022, which renowned mixing and mastering engineer Dan Swanö has characterized as one of his best works in melodic metal, carefully entwines musical universes and invites you to follow your imagination and fantasy. Among Empress’ remarked past live performances, it is worth mentioning their album release show at Mad With Power Fest in Madison, WI, on the release day of “Fateweaver”, as well as having shared the stage with bands such as Oceans of Slumber, Seven Spires, and Grim Reaper on their journey to conquering the symphonic metal stronghold with sophistication.

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    Trekking from the Canadian North, Ottawa's Lycanthro encapsulates a heavy, yet melodic sound, that is drawn from influences of both European/American classic power and thrash metal along with high howling vocals, piercing guitars, a booming rhythm section as well as uses of instruments such as piano and classical guitar to forge a powerful sound. Fans be prepared for an energetic and epic stage presence as they take you on their lyrical journey of classic horror and mythology. They recently released their new single "Iris", which will be featured on their upcoming 2025 album "Remnants of Rapture". The single was mixed/mastered by Damien Rainaud (Dragonforce / Once Human) and features a keyboard solo from Arttu Vauhkonen (Arion).

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    Local hometown heroes, Denver's Celestial Wizard brings a mix of fantasy and heavy metal to the table, giving you a front-row seat to a sci-fi experience unlike any other! The band has been blazing new trails with their aggressive, powerful sound. Pulling from both power metal and death metal, they achieve a melodic, high-intensity mix that hits just right. Their sophomore album ‘Winds of the Cosmos’ showcases just that, as they deliver hard-driving riffs paired with aggressive, death metal-styled vocals. ‘Winds of the Cosmos’ is a metal monster in a league all its own!

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    Also supporting the lineup will be Denver's blackened pagan power metal Oak, Ash & Thorn who released their latest album "Our Grief Is Thus" in April 2024 on Lost Future Records. The album is a powerful, unique sound that is fully their own, as melodic and memorable as it is heavy and crushing. Now, Oak, Ash & Thorn are taking the next step in their journey by signing with Season of Mist. As they continue to tour in support of their latest album, the band will begin writing what’s bound to be a highly-anticipated follow-up.

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    To open the festival's night, winners of the 2024 Battle of the Bands for the festival will be Denver locals Viperwitch and Signs of Tranquility. Make sure to come early to the fest to cheer on the local winners!

    In addition to the primary festival night, Mile High Power Fest hosts a pre-party that puts Denver’s local talent in the spotlight. But this isn’t your average showdown—it’s a platform for rising Denver local metal bands to showcase their passion and skill, with the chance to earn a coveted spot on next year’s MHPF lineup. Industry pros from across the country join the fun, offering feedback, mentorship, and networking opportunities that can launch careers. It’s a night of powerful performances, community connections, and metal excellence that sets MHPF apart from every other festival out there.

    Mile High Power Fest 2025 Lineup:​
    Powerglove
    Glyph
    Owlbear
    Empress
    Lycanthro
    Celestial Wizard
    Oak, Ash, & Thorn
    Viperwitch
    Signs of Tranquility

    Ticket info:​
    GA tickets: $45
    Reserved Table (Limit 10, includes 4 GA tickets): $200
    ​Ticket link: https://tickets.holdmyticket.com/tickets/427460​

    Venue: Oriental Theater - 4335 W 44th Ave, Denver, CO 80212

    More info:​
    Website: https://www.bitesizeevents.com/mile-high-power-fest​

    FAQ - https://www.bitesizeevents.com/mhpf-2025-press-release​
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556641145956​
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milehighpowerfest​

    About:

    The Mile High Power Festival, Denver’s only power metal festival was derived from the creative mind of Soren Bray. The idea was born after a night of celebration with his band, Celestial Wizard while attending the HyperSpace Festival in Vancouver, Canada. It was then that Soren realized the U.S. had only a handful of power metal festivals—and none near his home in Denver. Partnering with Lucy, owner of Bitesize Productions LLC, Soren teamed up to turn this dream into a reality. The duo pitched Soren’s dream fest idea to the Oriental Theater (Denver, CO, USA) who was thrilled to join the project! Thus it began.

    MHPF's inaugural 2024 lineup featured Seven Spires, Aether Realm, Traveler, Lords of the Trident, AfterTime, Judicator, Graveshadow, Celestial Wizard, Seizure, Starwraith, and Siege Perilous.

    Mile High Power Festival is the ultimate gathering for power metal enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of Denver, Colorado, this annual event is a showcase of the finest power metal bands locally and from around the globe. It's a testament to the unyielding spirit and intensity of power metal music, uniting devoted fans and talented artists in a euphoric celebration. Immerse yourself in a weekend of high-voltage performances, camaraderie, and the unapologetic essence of power metal.

    The night before the festival, they host an exciting Battle of the Bands event where local artists compete for a chance to perform at the following year's fest. This event not only uplifts the Denver local music community but also provides valuable feedback to the artists from industry professionals. Join us for a night of great music and support Denver's local talent!

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  • STRIKER's "ULTRAPOWER" Nominated For JUNO Award for Metal / Hard Music Album of The Year + EU Tour w/ Unleash The Archers, Seven Kingdoms

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    Edmonton, AB heavy metal masters STRIKER have been nominated for their third Juno Award for "Metal/Hard Music Album of The Year" for their 2024 album "ULTRAPOWER" released via their indie label Record Breaking Records.

    "Honoured to be among the best of the best of the best along with our fellow JUNO nominees this year for our 3rd consecutive nomination! This means a lot to us, we always give it all and are ready for anything. Tough competition this year, it's a brawl at the pub, but no matter what, we will live to fight another day." adds the band.

    STRIKER has been nominated alongside Anciients, Devin Townsend, Kittie, and Spiritbox.

    2025 - JUNO Awards - METAL/HARD MUSIC ALBUM OF THE YEAR / ALBUM DE MUSIQUE MÉTAL/HARD DE L’ANNÉE​
    ​
    Anciients - Beyond the Reach of the Sun - Season of Mist / The Orchard
    Devbin Townsend - PowerNerd - InsideOut Music / Sony
    Kittie - Fire - Sumerian / Virgin
    Spiritbox - The Fear of Fear - BMG / Universal
    Striker - ULTRAPOWER - Independent

    Full list of 2025 Nominees and Categories can be found at https://junoawards.ca/2025-juno-awards-nominees/

    STRIKER's latest album "ULTRAPOWER" was produced by Josh Schroeder (Lorna Shore, Tallah, King 810). The seventh full-length from STRIKER follows their Juno Award-winning self-released record "Play to Win" (2018) unleashed on their label Record Breaking Records.

    With the band writing material since 2018, "ULTRAPOWER" is a collection of Striker tinkering and exploring new avenues. From the album's opening track "Circle of Evil", a Malmsteen-esque metal banger about secret societies and the evil dealings behind closed doors to their previously released single "BEST of the BEST of the BEST" serving up some big riffs and hockey arena vocals to "Blood Magic", which might be one of Striker's most progressive songs, taking cues from bands like King Diamond, with its unconventional structure and punctuated guitar solos. From the band delving into their obsession for late 80s AOR and pop rock with "City Calling", an ode to 1987, and bands like Toto and Kenny Loggins with their hook-powered albums. To fans experiencing the band's first attempt at a synth-wave track with "Live To Fight Another Day", this new offering sees Striker making a shredding love letter to the hard-rocking era of guilty pleasures.

    "ULTRAPOWER" was released on February 2nd, 2024, and is available at https://www.striker-metal.com/shop/ (CD, Vinyl, Digital)

    Spotify - https://spoti.fi/3SnIshu​

    ​

    In additional news, STRIKER is kicking off their EU tour with Unleash The Archers and Seven Kingdoms (dates listed below).

    EU Tour 2025 - Unleash The Archers, Striker, Seven Kingdoms​
    Tickets: https://linktr.ee/UnleashTheArchersTour2025​
    12.02 (DE) KARLSRUHE @ Substage
    13.02 (DE) ASCHAFFENBURG @ Colos-Saal
    14.02 (DE) COLOGNE @ Live Music Hall
    15.02 (BE) KORTRIJK @ De Kreun
    16.02 (GB) LONDON @ The Underworld
    17.02 (FR) PARIS @ La Machine
    19.02 (CH) ZURICH @ Dynamo
    20.02 (IT) MILAN @ Legend Club
    21.02 (DE) MUNICH @ Backstage Halle
    22.02 (CZ) ZLIN @ Masters of Rock Cafe
    23.02 (HU) BUDAPEST @ Barba Negra
    25.02 (AT) VIENNA @ Szene
    26.02 (PL) CRACOW @ Kwadrat
    27.02 (DE) LEIPZIG @ Hellraiser
    28.02 (LU) ESCH-SUR-ALZETTE @ Rockhal
    01.03 (DE) HAMBURG @ Kronensaal
    02.03 (NL) HAARLEM @ Patronaat

    More info: Striker-metal.com​

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