After years of dedication to their craft, USA’s metalcore outfit Jawfane has officially released their debut EP “Me and All My Demons” via Exitus Stratagem Records. The six-track collection represents the culmination of the band's journey from DIY beginnings to a refined musical force that defies easy categorization. The band shares their excitement for the release:
“We are absolutely beyond words for how excited we are to bring our first collection of songs into the world with and through Exitus Stratagem Records. It has been an absolute privilege working with Gordon, Jason, and the team to bring “Me And All My Demons” to life. This record is a personal journey for Jawfane. Sonically, we brought the hammer, lyrically we brought a bigger hammer, and we intend to beat out a place in the world for us and our brand of Metal-core.”
“Me and All My Demons” is a deeply personal record, drawing from the lived experiences of each band member. They anticipate that it will be received with an open mind to metal and what it can be when you are angry, but also determined to find the beautiful things in this life.
The EP showcases Jawfane's unique collaborative process, where traditional roles are often subverted: guitarists writing bass parts, bassists writing guitar parts, instrumental sections evolving into vocal melodies. This fluid approach to composition results in music that feels both technically impressive and emotionally authentic.
Though the band acknowledges their sound has elements of post-hardcore, metal-core, and even mathcore, they prefer to let the music speak for itself, promising that they will continue to evolve and change as they grow and no matter what genre they end up in, they’d like to think it will always sound like them.
“Me and All My Demons” aims to create a genuine connection with listeners. It is recommended for fans of King 810, Wage War, and The Ghost Inside.
Track Listing: 1. Damaged Goods - 3:48 2. Cataclysm (Nightmare) - 2:42 3. Me and All My Demons - 3:46 4. Friends and Enemies - 3:20 5. Time Hunts Us All - 4:01 EP Length: 17:39
Matt Miller, the acclaimed technical death metal virtuoso, has released his first single, "Descent into Violence. " The song offers a powerful glimpse into the sonic landscape of his seventh album, "Fiber Tormentum," which will be released on September 12, 2025, via Exitus Stratagem Records.
Driven by explosive instrumentation and guttural passion, “Descent into Violence” is more than just a song—it’s a visceral experience. Lyrically, the track explores themes of desperation and survival, painting the picture of a soul teetering on the edge and fighting to stay alive in a world stacked against them. It's a cry from the depths, echoing the struggles many face but few can articulate.
This single marks a significant evolution in Miller's musical journey, transitioning from his previous instrumental works to a full-band composition. Joining him on this project are Jordan Kelso (Drums, Synth), Justice Robinett (Bass), and Biko Wright (Vocals), each bringing unique elements that enrich the album's dynamic sound.
Miller reflects, "It’s got a lot to offer for the instrumental fans as well as new fans who want to hear the music with vocals and the unique things each of these musicians is bringing to the table." Lyrically, "Fiber Tormentum" unfolds as a conceptual narrative, drawing inspiration from science fiction themes. The album envisions a scenario where extraterrestrial forces manipulate human DNA to subjugate humanity, blending speculative fiction with real-world anxieties. The album's artwork, created by the late Joshua Nassaru Ward of Voraath, adds a poignant visual dimension to the project's thematic depth.. Fans can anticipate a blend of technical precision and emotive storytelling, influenced by death metal pioneers like Necrophagist and Spawn of Possession and the atmospheric depth of artists such as Devin Townsend and Rivers of Nihil. Providing a compelling introduction to the forthcoming album's intricate soundscapes and thematic explorations, listen to "Descent into Violence" via its premiere on Bravewords HERE.
Kratornas has released the official lyric video for “Ravaged by Hurakaan”, the third track from the upcoming full-length album “God of the Tribes”, set for release on August 22, 2025, through Grathila Records. Following the successful limited releases of the “Ravaged by Hurakaan” vinyl demo and remix cassette last month, this lyric video presents the full album version of the track for the first time. At seven minutes, the song demonstrates the new direction Kratornas has taken, focusing on atmosphere, tension, and ritualistic elements rather than the blistering speed of earlier works. Kratornas comments on the single:
“This album marks a turning point for Kratornas. The first 15 years were deprived years. Not of ideas, but of the equipment to record them. That’s why I was stuck with simplicity, but it was never the plan. Now I have everything I need to get THAT sound. This album isn’t about being ‘advanced’ or ‘innovative’, it’s a return to roots, distilled into something raw and real.”
The lyric video offers fans their first look at the complete lyrics, which have been described as ‘thick with metaphors, open to many interpretations’. The creator cautions that the words incorporated into the ritualistic chants throughout the album are deliberately crafted to provoke strong psychological responses.
The video's visual aesthetics complement the apocalyptic themes that have defined Kratornas' work since 1999, when the project shifted from its early Satanic themes to ‘doomsday predictions’ that have remained a consistent inspiration. “Ravaged by Hurakaan” serves as a perfect introduction to “God of the Tribes”, showcasing the project's new sonic approach while maintaining the intensity that has defined Kratornas for nearly three decades. It is recommended for anyone who enjoys black metal.
Rockshots Records and Secret Rule are excited to announce the release of the band’s new single “Echoes Of The Earth,” accompanied by a music video and available on all digital platforms starting today, June 24th, 2025. The track is the second preview of Secret Rule’s highly anticipated tenth studio album “X”, due for release late 2025.
With “Echoes Of The Earth”, Secret Rule explores a more introspective and spiritual side of their sound. The song blends heavy grooves, atmospheric tension, and layered electronics, creating a powerful and immersive soundscape. Lyrically, it reflects on the human need to reconnect with what is real and primordial in a chaotic, artificial world.
“It’s about listening for something ancient to guide you. I wrote the lyrics during a time when I needed to feel grounded again. That chorus is the moment of awakening,” says vocalist Angela Di Vincenzo.
Guitarist and producer Andy Menario adds:
“We wanted a track that felt direct and alive—something that could carry both chaos and order, like a dialogue between the modern world and the earth itself.”
Fresh from a 15-date European tour with Temperance and Induction earlier this spring and gearing up to hit major summer festivals across Europe, including Masters of Rock (Czech Republic), Rock Imperium (Spain), and Laurus Nobilis (Portugal),Secret Rule continues to prove they are entering a bold new chapter.
Listen to “Echoes Of The Earth” at the following links:
SUMMER FESTIVALS: 27.06.25 ES - Imperium Rock Festival 12.07.25 CZ - Masters of Rock 20.07.25 PT - Laurus Nobilis ANGELA DI VINCENZO: Vocals ANDY ‘MENARIO’ MENARINI: Guitar SOFIA BASILI: Bass ANDREA MIAZZETTO: Drums
Ivy Gardens, the experimental sludge metal band from Niagara Falls, Canada, has announced the release of their highly anticipated new music video for the single "Burden" and their sophomore album, "Death of Don Valley", set to drop on August 29th, 2025, via Paper Cut Recordings. The record marks a bold new chapter in the band’s sound, with more complex compositions, darker themes, and a shift into a more experimental and atmospheric direction. Formed in the parking lot of Princess Auto, Ivy Gardens’ journey began with a mutual love for covering Rush instrumentals and an obsession with heavy, sludge-infused sound. From those humble beginnings, the band’s unique chemistry and vision have led to the creation of their most ambitious and thematically focused album yet. "Burden", the first single from "Death of Don Valley", showcases a satirical take on nihilism, with dark and comical undertones. The track was one of the first songs written for the album and features a fast-paced, relentless tempo that gradually picks up speed in the studio. Lyrically, it's a satirical take on the archetypal nihilist, with a dose of doom and gloom that veers into a comical extreme. The band describes it as “quick and succinct” — a track that encapsulates the essence of their new sonic direction.
Watch and listen to the music video for "Burden" via its premiere on The Obelisk HERE.
"Death of Don Valley" is a concept album, exploring the themes of death, decay, and the unstoppable erosion of life and the environment. The concept is rooted in the history of the Don Valley River, a once-thriving waterway now plagued by pollution and degradation. The album's artwork reflects this with the haunting image of a corpse between the banks of the flooded river, anthropomorphizing the water itself as it becomes a symbol of death and decay.
The material on "Death of Don Valley" was designed to be heard live, with massive stacks of amplifiers and a commitment to delivering the music in all its raw, unfiltered glory. It marks a bold new direction for Ivy Gardens; the band has no plans of slowing down. Their dedication to the project is evident in every note they play and every lyric they write as they continue to push musical boundaries and explore new sonic territories. Lyrically, the record draws from a mix of historical events, such as the tragic story of Canadian bush pilot Martin Hartwell, and fictional narratives, creating a dark and gripping atmosphere. The songs explore everything from violence, death, and survival to environmental destruction and existential dread. As the band explains:
"Death of Don Valley is the natural progression of their sound, with more complexity and a deliberate thematic structure. Musically, it marks a shift in Ivy Gardens’ approach. This album is darker, more experimental, and more intricate than our previous work on 2024's Goon. While Goon carried a more positive, energetic vibe, this LP is more about confronting the darker aspects of life, and it reflects a deeper exploration into musical and thematic complexity."
Ivy Gardens' influences are vast, ranging from progressive icons like Rush, Yes, and King Crimson to sludge pioneers like EYEHATEGOD and Iron Monkey. Their sound blends elements of stoner metal, sludge, math rock, and progressive rock, creating an unpredictable listening experience that takes the listener through a series of emotional and sonic landscapes.
Fans of Ivy Gardens can expect an intense live performance soon, as the band does plan to tour in support of the new album this coming September. Stay tuned for dates to be announced, and Ivy Gardens are bringing their thunderous sound to stages nationwide. Expect a live show that will test the limits of your ears and your emotions.
Ivy Gardens - Live or Die Tour: Aug 29 - St. Catharines, ON - Warehouse Concert Hall Aug 30 - Toronto, ON - Monarch Tavern Sept 5 - Kitchener, ON - The Golden Apple Sept 11 - London, ON - TBA Sept 12 - Windsor, ON - Phog Lounge Sept 13 - Sarnia, ON - AJs Bar Sept 18 - Halifax, NS - Radstorm Sept 19 - Sydney, NS - Daniels Ale House Sept 20 - Charlottetown, PEI - Babas Lounge Sept 21 - Moncton, NB - TBA Sept 25 - Woodstock, NB - Montieth Manor Sept 26 - Quebec City, QC - Scanner Bistro Sept 27 - Montreal, QC - Blue Dog Oct 9 - Barrie, ON - CW Coops Oct 10 - Sudbury, ON - Townhouse Tavern Oct 11 - Thunder Bay, ON - Nortenos Cantina Oct 12 - Winnipeg, MB - Bulldog Event Center Oct 16 - Regina, SK - The Cure Kitchen and Bar Oct 17 - Saskatoon, SK - The Black Cat Oct 18 - Calgary, AB - Palomino Oct 19 - Edmonton, AB - Blak Bar Oct 23 - Kelowna, BC - TBA Oct 24 - Vancouver, BC - TBA Oct 25 - Victoria, BC - TBA
