Search Results: music

• 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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• AUTUMN LIES BURIED New EP "Mob Mentality" + Kick-Off HELLHOWLER TOUR w/ Casket Robbery

  Jun 5, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Extreme metal outfit Autumn Lies Buried is proud to announce the release of their highly anticipated “Mob Mentality” EP, available worldwide starting June 6th, 2025. The release coincides with the first date of the Hell Howler Tour, where the band will share stages with Casket Robbery across the United States. The EP delivers the band's signature blend of extreme metal styles with a powerful social message. The band comments:

  “Mob Mentality is a reiteration of what we were talking about in previous songs like Inhuman Skin. The common people have been trained to think they are powerless to change their course in life. They think that the hands of the powerful will hold them down generation after generation, and that’s “Just the way it is. Well, we are preaching sin with Mob Mentality, and by sin, we mean Strength In Numbers. We cannot be held down if we band together against the grifters, charlatans, oppressors, and connivers. Burn it all.”

  'The EP is a call to arms against injustice. Fuel for the fire that cleanses,' the band continues. All members contributed to the writing process, with each individual taking responsibility for fine-tuning and lyrics, followed by collaborative adjustments. This democratic approach to songwriting reflects the band's commitment to their message of collective action and solidarity.

  Autumn Lies Buried delivers an anti-fascist message with their music while still maintaining a fun and jovial environment for all present at their live shows. Fans can expect breakneck energy with a positive message, if not a bit violent sometimes. The band just wants to have fun and wants the same for everyone there. The Hell Howler Tour runs from June 6th to June 15th, giving fans across the United States the opportunity to experience Autumn Lies Buried’s notoriously energetic live performances. They are recommended for fans of Tech N9ne, The Acacia Strain, and Twisted Insane.

  Listen to the full stream premiere for “Mob Mentality” on Decibel Magazine HERE.

  EP pre-save (out June 6th) via Exitus Stratagem Records - https://hypeddit.com/autumnliesburied/mobmentality​

  ​

  Track Listing:​
  1. Strappado – 3:13
  2. Blood Money – 3:02
  3. Guillotine – 3:05
  4. Told Off Witta Sawed Off – 2:52
  5. Debt Of Silence – 2:58
  EP Length: 15:30

  Hellhowler Tour - Casket Robbery, Autumn Lies Buried, My Own Will

  #Autumn Lies Buried Not Appearing | + My Own will Not Appearing

  5/29 - West Chicago, IL - WC Social Club #
  5/30 - Hamtramck, MI - Sanctuary #
  5/31 - Battle Creek, MI - The Music Factory #
  6/1 - Cleveland, OH - The Foundry #
  6/3 - Pittsburgh, PA - The Smiling Moose #
  6/4 - Clifton, NJ - Dingbatz #
  6/5 - Salisbury, MD - Lurking Class Skate Shop #
  6/6 - Gastonia, NC - The Rooster +
  6/7 - Wilmington, NC - The Eagles Dare +
  6/8 - Duluth, GA - Sweetwater Bar +
  6/10 - Winter Park, FL - Conduit +
  6/11 - Miami, FL - Bar Nancy +
  6/12 - Tampa, FL - The Orpheum +
  6/13 - Pensacola, FL - Handlebar +
  6/14 - Clarksville, TN - The Revel House +
  6/15 - Hobart, IN - Hobart Art Theatre +
  ​

  More info: Facebook.com/autumnliesburied | Instagram.com/autumn.lies.buried

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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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• Z-COCOON Unveils "Dr. Crane" Off New EP "Angels" Out June 2025

  May 30, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Montreal, Canada's Z-Cocoon announces the release of their new EP "Angels" out on June 6th, 2025, via Earache Digital Distro. This third EP is the first full band release from Z-Cocoon, which was founded by Marc Zolla as a solo endeavour in 2017 under the previous moniker Pink Cocoon. Now a power trio with Michel Paradis (Drums) and John Burton (Bass), are prepared to offer electrically-charged heavy music with savage guitar jabs, rockin' blues, and hot solos.

  Fans can expect a three-track EP that is very energetic and sounds exactly like what’s recorded. The guitar solos are very bluesy yet metal-sounding, and are contrasted with catchy melodic vocals, reminiscent of DIO or Pentagram.

  "I’m a big fan of songs that have clear and loud vocals where you can sing along and understand and interpret what the song is about, not just noise and a riff," adds Zolla.

  Today, Z-Cocoon unveils the opening track and heavy bluesy single "Dr. Crane", inspired by the villain in the Batman Universe, Dr.Crane, aka The Scarecrow.

  “Dr. Crane is exactly what Z-Cocoon is all about! Heavy riffs, clean vocals, and lots of blues power! If you like poisoning people’s minds with fear, such as The Scarecrow in Batman, then here you have it. Or if you’re looking for a good heavy song to listen to while working out or doing physical work, or you wanna let loose in your speakers and relax, this is the song for you! Make sure to play it loud for the ultimate listening experience, preferably with good speakers to feel that sound and panning!” adds Zolla.

  Loud and dynamic, listen to "Dr. Crane".

  Following the "Angels" EP, Z-Cocoon will have an album worth of music and more that will be recorded and released. If you’re into the classics such as Dio, Sabbath, Deep Purple, or blues guys such as Hendrix, Trower, Stevie Ray, or just dig stoner rock/ doom metal, but looking for something a little different, then take a listen and put Z-Cocoon on LOUD!

  EP pre-save - https://earache.lnk.to/Angels​

  Track Listing:​
  1. Dr. Crane - 4:17
  2. Truth Don’t Matter - 3:42
  3. For My Life - 6:37
  Album Length: 14:36

  Band Lineup:​
  Guitar/Vocals: Marc Zolla
  Bass: John Burton
  Drums: Michel Paradis

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

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