Search Results: new

• Chilean Prog ENGRUPID PIPOL Unleashes New Concept Album "Quadragenta At Finem Mundi"

  Nov 7, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  After more than three years of silence, Chilean instrumental trio Engrupid Pipol returns with their most daring and conceptually rich album to date: "Quadragenta at Finem Mundi." A sonic prophecy told in seven acts, this 46-minute progressive metal journey explores the collapse of civilization and the rebirth of life through intricate compositions, raw emotion, and a sound that pushes the boundaries of the trio format.

  Drummer Nacho García reflects on the band’s evolution.
  ​
  ​“The work done on this album is incomparable to our two previous records, both technically and personally. On Engrupid Divais, we had found the sound we were looking for. This time, once we were in the studio, we realized we already had the sound we wanted; it just needed a few tweaks.”

  The band focused on preserving the integrity of the trio format, avoiding overdubs that couldn’t be replicated live. The result is a modern, powerful, and crystal-clear sound, with each instrument retaining its warmth and natural tone. Acoustic guitars, synthesizers, and even the bombo legüero, a traditional Latin American drum, add depth and texture to the album’s apocalyptic narrative.

  
  ​
  ​"Quadragenta at Finem Mundi" is Engrupid Pipol’s first conceptual album, and it demanded everything from its members. With funding from the Chilean Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Heritage, the band had the resources to elevate their recording, post-production, and promotional efforts, but also faced immense pressure to deliver.
  ​
  ​“We had a deadline and only three rough demos. It tested us as a band and as friends. We had to devote a huge chunk of our lives to this process, writing, arranging, rehearsing, and reworking demos until the songs matured,” recalls Nacho.
  ​
  Guitarist Kaztrol adds:
  ​
  ​“This album was born from a different place than usual. It pushed us to our limits and presented obstacles we didn’t expect. Listening to the finished album is an auditory delight, a reward for our souls after all the effort and sacrifice.”​
  ​
  ​"Quadragenta at Finem Mundi" unfolds as a seven-act instrumental journey through the collapse and rebirth of civilization. It opens with “Tripel Ultimatum,” a high-adrenaline, riff-heavy track that introduces three survivors of a nuclear disaster. “Vorágine” follows with a whirlwind of acoustic chaos, mirroring the consumerist frenzy and environmental decay of modern society. “Animal Inteligenz” offers a satirical take on artificial intelligence as a new deity, exploring the decline of human intellect and the rise of evolved animals and machines. The fourth act, “Inspireichon Burn,” channels death-metal fury to depict the devastation of thermonuclear war and the greed of war profiteers, born from a spontaneous burst of inspiration. “Vairal Madnez,” the most collaborative track, critiques digital obsession, fake news, and biological warfare, and stands out as a favorite to perform. “Aztral Configureited” shifts the tone to cosmic reflection, imagining planetary alignment as life on Earth fades and a new cycle begins. The album closes with “Ameba Emenens,” a fully acoustic and introspective finale, where a lone ameba survives the apocalypse to restart life, offering a hopeful end to a dark and prophetic musical odyssey.
  ​
  ​"Quadragenta at Finem Mundi" is more than an album; it’s a statement. A sonic warning. A cathartic release. And above all, a testament to the enduring power of three musicians who’ve spent nearly 25 years crafting their sound and pushing their limits.

  Available November 7, 2025, on all major platforms, the album is recommended for fans of Liquid Tension, Rush, Megadeth, King Crimson, Night Verses, and Animals as Leaders.

  Add to your Spotify playlist - https://open.spotify.com/album/7i6N3YPymMG6Bk6SAwrhPb​

  Digital Download - https://www.portaldisc.com/contenido/disco-engrupid-pipol-quadragenta-at-finem-mundi​

  Track Listing:
  ​1. Tripel Ultimatum - 5:48
  2. Voragine - 6:53
  3. Animal Inteligenz - 7:34
  4. Inspireichon Burn
  5. Vairal Madness 5:01
  6. Aztral Configureited 8:24
  7. Ameba Emenens 4.20
  Album Length 45:20

  For more info: Engrupidpipol.cl | Instagram.com/engrupid_pipol | Facebook.com/engrupid​

  Read more

• 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.

  
  ​
  ​"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.
  ​
  ​“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.
  ​
  The EP artwork, created by guitarist Scotty Oakes, is a painted psychedelic interpretation of the human mind, visually complementing the band’s cerebral themes.
  ​
  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.
  ​
  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.
  ​
  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/

  ​

  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​

  Read more

• Czech Modern Metal Force STELLVRIS Unleash New EP "Shatter and Bloom" and Music Video

  Nov 6, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

  NEWS RELEASE

  Montreal, QC - November 6, 2025

  Streaming Now! Czech Modern Metal Force STELLVRIS Unleash New EP "Shatter and Bloom" and Music Video

  L-R - Libor Hřebík (Bass), Andreas Polášek (Guitar), Nicol Hofman (Vocals), Hanz Polášek (Drums)

  Photo Credit - Julia Ramm

  Czech modern metal upstarts STELLVRIS are set to unleash their highly anticipated new EP, "Shatter and Bloom," on Friday, November 7th. Ahead of its official release, the band is premiering both the EP and a powerful new music video for the title track, a showcase of their signature blend of crushing heaviness, soaring melodies, and raw emotion, exclusively via Decibel Magazine HERE.
  ​
  Formed in 2019 after an impromptu jam session led to their first live show at Prague’s iconic Music Club Modrá Vopice, STELLVRIS have quickly carved out a reputation for their powerful, emotional, heavy, melodic, and modern sound. With "Shatter and Bloom," the band takes another bold step forward, pushing their sonic boundaries while staying true to the intensity that has fueled their rise.

  
  ​
  Produced by Christoph Wieczorek at Sawdust Recordings, the five-track EP delivers a dynamic fusion of crushing breakdowns, electronic textures, and irresistibly catchy choruses. Lyrically, it dives headfirst into themes of destruction, rebirth, toxic relationships, and the struggles of modern life, all expressed with raw honesty. The journey begins with the title track “Shatter and Bloom,” a defiant anthem about tearing down what no longer serves and allowing something stronger to rise. “Silence After Violence” follows as a stark warning against the growing tide of aggression in society, even among the youngest generations. With “Monster,” the band turns inward, confronting the scars of toxic relationships while celebrating the strength it takes to break free. “Time’s Up” offers a sharp critique of living life solely online, disconnected from reality and responsibility. Closing the record is “Starships,” a heavy, metal-charged reimagining of Nicki Minaj’s pop hit, ending the EP on an explosive note of energy and fun.
  ​
  ​“Shatter and Bloom is more than just a collection of songs; it’s about destroying what’s toxic and giving space for something new to grow. Every track reflects real struggles we’ve faced or witnessed, from toxic relationships to the rising aggression in society. We want fans to feel seen, empowered, and connected through this music. It’s heavy, it’s honest, and it’s meant to hit both the heart and the pit,” adds the band.

  
  ​
  With "Shatter and Bloom," STELLVRIS continue their evolution, delivering a record that is as cathartic as it is crushing, a testament to resilience, transformation, and the unbreakable spirit of modern metal.

  Recommended for fans of Jinjer, Spiritbox, Holy Wars, Infected Rain, and I Prevail, "Shatter and Bloom" will be available on all digital platforms, along with Vinyl.

  Bandcamp (Vinyl, Digital) - https://stellvris.bandcamp.com/album/shatter-bloom

  Digital (Spotify, Apple Music) - https://linktr.ee/stellvris.band

  Track Listing:​
  1. Shatter and Bloom - 3:18
  2. Silence After Violence - 3:14
  3. Monster - 4:16
  4. Time’s Up - 3:32
  5. Starships (Nicki Minaj Cover)
  EP Length: 18:27
  ​
  ​EP Credits:
  ​• All songs performed by: STELLVRIS
  • All songs written by: STELLVRIS
  • Produced by: Christoph Wieczorek of Sawdust Recordings
  • Mixed by: Christoph Wieczorek of Sawdust Recordings
  • Mastered by: Christoph Wieczorek of Sawdust Recordings
  • EP Artwork by: František Jelen
  ​
  ​Band Line Up:
  ​Nicol Hofman (vocalist)
  Libor Hřebík (bassist)
  Andreas Polášek (guitarist)
  Hanz Polášek (drummer)

  More info: https://linktr.ee/stellvris.band

  Read more

• 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.
  ​
  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.
  ​
  ​“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.
  ​
  ​“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.
  ​
  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.

  ​
  ​"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.
  ​
  ​“I think fans of progressive metal will find something to enjoy, even if not every song fits neatly into genre definitions,” adds Koepke.

  
  ​
  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.
  ​
  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.
  ​
  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."​
  ​
  ​“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.”​
  ​
  ​"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/

  Read more

• Avant-Garde Prog Doom LIMINAL SPIRIT's Haunting Album "Unwell"

  Oct 31, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Milwaukee-based solo project Liminal Spirit, helmed by multi-instrumentalist Jerry Hauppa (also of Deorbit), has released its third EP, "Unwell," today, October 31st, ushering in a chilling new chapter of doom-laced, cinematic storytelling just in time for Halloween.
  ​
  Described as “grandiose, cinematic, epic, heavy, unique,” "Unwell" deepens Liminal Spirit’s signature style of immersive “seance music,” conjuring a soundscape that channels spiritual unrest and psychological collapse. This latest release invites listeners into the unraveling consciousness of Phillip, an elderly man suffering from dementia and haunted by the ghosts of two children who accuse him of a long-forgotten crime. As Phillip’s reality fractures, the music mirrors his descent, growing more distorted, chaotic, and emotionally volatile with each track, culminating in a violent confrontation and a final plunge into damnation.

  The EP opens with “Admittance,” a deceptively serene, jazz-tinged piece that captures Phillip’s arrival at a nursing home, comforted by his son’s performance of “Welcome to My World.” The mood shifts in “Unwell,” where microtonal guitars and fragmented rhythms evoke Phillip’s disorientation and fading identity. “Visiting Day” introduces a sinister presence as ghostly figures confront him with accusations, setting a countdown to judgment. The chaos peaks in “EOLC,” a brutal and frenzied track where Phillip is tormented and killed by the spirits. The closing piece, “A Better Place,” drags the listener into a bleak purgatory, with chromatic descents and oppressive textures that echo Phillip’s fall into hell. Together, these tracks form a tightly woven narrative of psychological horror and spiritual reckoning.
  ​
  Three of the five tracks feature microtonal guitar work, lending an alien, foreboding atmosphere that enhances the EP’s psychological horror. Hauppa’s writing process begins with a thematic concept and unfolds as a unified narrative, with lyrics drawn from the characters’ spoken words. The music and story are inseparable, each amplifying the other’s emotional weight.
  ​
  ​“My goal with this record is to explore ideas that represent some of my greatest fears. Having worked in nursing homes, I know how miserable they can be. The thought of losing my faculties and facing spiritual judgment terrifies me, and that’s what Unwell is about,” says Hauppa.
  ​
  ​Liminal Spirit is a progressive doom/avant-garde metal project known for its ritualistic, story-driven compositions. Influenced by artists like Skepticism, Anata, My Bloody Valentine, Jesu, and Confessor, Hauppa’s sound defies easy categorization, blending old-school death metal with psychedelic electronic textures.
  ​
  ​"Unwell" is available now on all major streaming platforms.

  Add to your Spotify Playlist - https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/liminalspirit2/unwell

  Digital Download - https://liminalspirit.bandcamp.com/

  More Info:​
  ​https://www.facebook.com/people/Liminal-Spirit/61575618106702/​
  ​https://www.instagram.com/liminal_spirit_mke

  Read more