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• Experience The World of ISLE OF THE CROSS With "Immortal Kiss" Off Forthcoming Album "Faustus The Musical" Out July 2024

  Jun 7, 2024 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Isle of the Cross, the US-based progressive metal powerhouse led by the multifaceted Je Schneider, will be releasing their eagerly awaited sophomore album, "Faustus The Musical". The album is slated to hit the airwaves and digital platforms worldwide in July 2024 via Rockshots Records.

  This groundbreaking album is a metal opera that draws inspiration from the epic 16th-century saga, 'Doctor Faustus' by Christopher Marlowe. Led by the visionary Je Schneider, the compositions weave an engaging narrative, accompanied by a powerful vocal delivery from a stellar cast. Daniël de Jongh takes on the role of the lead vocalist, guiding listeners through an exhilarating journey. From symphonic heights to brutal depths, the entire album is masterfully mixed and mastered by the renowned Joost van den Broek (Epica, Ayreon, Powerwolf). "Faustus The Musical" boasts an impressive lineup of talented contributors:

  Eric Gillette: Guitar
  Daniël de Jongh: Lead Vocalist (Faustus)
  Diane Lee: Vocals (Good Angel)
  Charles Elliott: Vocals (Lucifer)
  Matthieu Romarin: Vocals (Mephistopheles)
  Angela Di Vincenzo: Vocals (Helen)
  Amrit Sandhu: Vocals (Narrator)

  The captivating artwork, crafted by Theopisti Tiftikoglou, adds a visual dimension to the musical opus.

  Je Schneider expresses his excitement, stating, "Faustus The Musical is one I'm very excited about. The finished product came out well-polished and solid. It was an honor to feature the wonderful vocals of the cast and have Joost at the helm of the mix. This album is the best representation of Isle of the Cross."

  Today, the band is sharing with fans "Immortal Kiss", the second single off their forthcoming concept album 'Faustus The Musical'.

  The band adds:

  "Helen was known as the most beautiful woman to have lived and Faustus desires her as his paramour. Upon her arrival, Faustus asks her for an immortal kiss:

  ‘Sweet Helen, make me immortal with a kiss.

  Her lips suck forth my soul; see where it flies!

  Come, Helen, come, give me my soul again.

  Here will I dwell, for heaven be in these lips,

  And all is dross that is not Helen.’"

  Listen to "Immortal Kiss" at the following links:

  Digital - https://lnk.to/XB15xQ​

  First single, 'Ghost At The Feast'

  Digital - https://lnk.to/ISgatf​

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  Track Listing:​
  1. Prologue
  2. Wittenberg, 1587 (Instrumental)
  3. Metaphysics of Magicians
  4. The Divine Apostate
  5. Blood Oath
  6. Immortal Kiss
  7. Coven of Wittenberg
  8. Hourglass
  9. Ghost at the Feast
  10. Dragons Astralis (Instrumental)
  11. Candlelight Contemplation
  12. Eleven’s Hour
  13. 12:00
  14. Epilogue

  More info:
  ​https://www.rockshots.eu/​
  ​https://www.facebook.com/Isleofthecross/
  ​https://www.instagram.com/IsleoftheCross

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• Montreal's WORLD ON ALERT Announces Progressive Debut S/T EP And Video For “Insecurities"

  Jun 6, 2024 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

  Montreal, Canada’s World On Alert is thrilled to announce the release of their progressive and thrashy self-titled debut EP, alongside the premiere of the music video for their powerful new single “Insecurities”. This highly anticipated project features a unique blend of personal introspection and diverse musical influences, crafted by Gino LaPosta with the collaboration of several talented guest musicians. LaPosta comments on the single:

  “‘Insecurities’ was a track I had going on for a long time. I had almost every riff on this track written almost six years ago. I just never found any place to really put it. Musically, it has a darker tone. Also, progressive, with a thrashier ending. Lyrically, this is about my struggles with shyness which stopped me from completing many life experiences. But then breaking out of that shyness to finally be who I am.”

  The single dives deep into LaPosta's personal battles with introversion and self-assertion, themes also explored in “Alone With My Thoughts”. Justyn Vynn's evocative vocals and guitar work bring an added layer of intensity to the track. The accompanying music video visually captures the raw emotion and transformative journey detailed in the song.

  During the pandemic, when live performances were halted, Gino LaPosta took the opportunity to focus on creating music in his studio. This EP is a testament to his ability to draw from personal experiences and collaborate with a network of talented friends and family. This debut offering is recommended for fans of Dream Theater, Rush, and Tool.

  Watch and listen to the music video for “Insecurities” below.

  Due out on June 28, 2024, World on Alert's self-titled EP is available for pre-order at https://worldonalert.bandcamp.com.

  Spotify - https://spoti.fi/3V9Imvl​

  Track Listing: ​
  1. Freedom In Disguise ft. Max Rex (CroMagnum), Nick Amalfi, Alex Walsh (6:10)
  2. Insecurities ft. Justyn Vynn (Orchad), Alex Walsh (6:00)
  3. They Came From the Pleiades ft. Costa Skoulikas (Mutank), Alex Walsh (8:34)
  4. Alone With My Thoughts ft. Justyn Vynn (Orchad), Alex Walsh (4:32)
  5. The War Inside ft. John Vincelli (Void Within), Costa Skoulikas (Mutank), Armen Apekian (Ashes Of Eden), Alex Walsh (5:38)
  EP Length: 30:54

  More info: Instagram.com/world.on.alert | Facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555752466553 |Twitter.com/WorldOnAlertMtl

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• Brazil's AURO CONTROL Unveils New Album "The Harp"

  Jun 1, 2024 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

  Auro Control is a new Brazilian band dedicated to excellent Prog/Power Metal, today they released their debut album titled "The Harp". Led by vocalist Lucas de Ouro, the band comprises a talented lineup including bassist Thiago "Bonga" Baumgarten, guitarist Lucas Barnery, drummer Davi Britto, and guitarist Diego Pires. With their fast, precise, melodic, virtuous, and energetic sound, Auro Control delivers an amazing auditory experience that leaves a lasting impression.

  
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  ​"The Harp" is an ambitious album, uniting the greatness of Power Metal with the depth of Prog Metal and the richness of percussion from Bahia-Brazil, resulting in a unique and surprising sound. The album, recorded at Estúdio Fusão in São Paulo and produced by Thiago Bianchi, will feature the participation of Bianchi himself (Noturnall, ex-Shaman), Aquiles Priester (W.A.S.P., ex-Angra), Felipe Andreoli (Angra), Bahian singer Aiace, and Metal icon Jeff Scott Soto. In its Japanese version, the album will feature the exclusive bonus track: Inside the Mirror.
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  The album is full of songs showcasing their main influences and delivering energizing anthems with messages that encourage introspection and reflection. As the album unfolds, listeners are taken on a journey through the subjectivity of the human soul, with moments of power and complexity interspersed with Brazilian percussion and Northeastern rhythms.

  
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  The lyrics draw inspiration from dark moments and overcoming difficulties, serving as reflections and invitations to find one's spotlight in life. Metaphors of battling loneliness and transformation resonate throughout, emphasizing the importance of willpower and courage.
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  For fans of bands like Angra, Stratovarius, Helloween, Symphony X, and Dream Theater, "The Harp" offers a refreshing and mature debut album that combines technical prowess with beautiful melodies and melodic ideas. It's a compelling fusion of Power Metal classics and the rhythmic traditions of northeastern Brazil, marking Auro Control as a band to watch in the metal scene.
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  ​LISTEN: https://lnk.to/aurocontrol​
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  ​ALBUM ORDER - https://bit.ly/4aDZjol​

  ​​Auro Control is:
  Lucas de Ouro - Vocals
  Lucas Barnery - Guitars
  Diego Pires - Guitars
  Thiago Baumgarten - Bass
  Davi Britto - Drums

  For more info:​
  ​Rockshots.eu | https://www.facebook.com/aurocontrol | https://www.instagram.com/aurocontrol/

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• Rockshots Records - VICOLO INFERNO Unleash Video "Suspended" Off Third Studio Album "Circles" Out Now!

  May 31, 2024 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

  VICOLO INFERNO, one of the latest signings for Rockshots Records roster is proud to release their third studio album "Circles" today. Instinctive, energetic, melodic, dark, and intense, "Circles" is the quartet's most mature and experimental recording to date.

  "Circles" like its predecessor dances among various colors of the soul, from the most intimate and convoluted to the angry, to the amused and ironic. The track listing was chosen to guide the listener through a journey. The writing process for this record has been consolidated for years, although somewhat against the current.

  "We are "romantic supporters" of songwriting in the rehearsal room. We always start from a vocal line or a guitar riff, and if there is inspiration, the first version is laid down, which is then refined and shaped over time like a piece of wood by a sculptor." says the band. "It is said that the third album is canonically the one of awareness; it is certainly the one in which we put more care into arranging the songs, where we experimented with some stylistic figures never used by us before, both in music and in singing. For once, we would like to venture to say that we think it is our best album (although it is always difficult to say which child you love most) for ideas and execution, but as always, the hope is to reach the audience, which will be the judge in deciding whether our feelings hit the mark or not."

  The band describes this new single "Suspended" as a social critique stating that "The attention span of society for any content or experience is just a few seconds but our stories are too complex to be summarized in a few words." ​
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  Listen to "Suspended" at the following Link:

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  Recommended for fans of Alice in Chains, Black Sabbath, and Black Stone Cherry "Circles" is due out today and is available for digital platforms plus CD orders at the following links below:

  LISTEN / ORDER: https://lnk.to/vicircles​
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  ​UPCOMING SHOWS:​
  31.05 live @ Ziggy club (Torino) supporting Crying Steel e Vicious Rumors
  10.06 Album Release Party @ dolce vita (Imola)

   

  More info: Rockshots.eu | Facebook.com/vicoloinferno | Instagram.com/vicolo_inferno

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• WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA Announces National Winner - BEGUILER - One Band To Rule Them All & Play Wacken Open Air

  May 28, 2024 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

  One band to rule them all! Down to the final five bands from across the country, the national final for Wacken Metal Battle Canada was held this past Saturday, May 25th in Edmonton, AB at the Starlite Room with regional winners Arrow In The Quiver (Vancouver, BC), Infrastrvctvre (Calgary, AB), Age of Ashes (Edmonton, AB), Beguiler (Toronto, ON) and Red Raven Chaos (Montreal, QC) along with special guest headliners NECHT (Calgary, AB - 2023 National Finalist).

  The night was MC'd by Gord Alexander (Tessitura, Tides of Kharon) and judged by an industry panel that included JJ Tartaglia (Wacken Metal Battle Canada, Boonsdale Records, Skull Fist, Thunderor - Toronto, ON), Luc Lainé (CFLX 95,5 FM - Alerte Metallique - Sherbrooke, QC), Dan Cleary (Striker), Kim Aebly (The Invisible Orange, Vancouver, BC), Dana Zuk (Dana Zuk Photography - Edmonton, AB), Jon Asher (Asher Media Relations - Montreal, QC), Nancy Barnes (Big Nate Productions - Calgary, AB), Celestia Scarlett (Owner/Artist Manager - The Celestial Agency- Calgary, AB) and Steve DC (Strigampire - 2023 National WMBC Winner - Trois-Rivières, QC).

  After each band presented their furious rallying battle performance, the only one that stood out from the rest and is now crowned the 2024 champion is Toronto's Beguiler.

  "The level of the bands this year was very impressive, I am very glad that everyone killed it on stage and played for a full venue in Edmonton. And a massive congrats to Beguiler for being the chosen ones, I expect they will make quite an impression at Wacken," adds WMBC organizer JJ Tartaglia.

  As this year's crowned Canadian champion, Beguiler will now move on to perform as the only independent Canadian band at the International Battle at Wacken Open Air (July 31st – August 3rd), one of the world's most prestigious and largest metal festivals (Attendance of over 80,000 people in Wacken, Germany for over 30 years).​

  Beguiler will receive the following:
  - A slot at the 2024 Wacken Open Air Festival.
  - Full professional backline provided.
  - $1,000 CAD towards flights to Germany.
  - VIP camping at the festival.

  Beguiler joins the list of previous WMBC national winners 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).

  
  

  Info:

  Since 2013, with a pause year in 2017 and 2020 due to COVID-19, 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 2024 will be the 33rd edition of the festival and will be held from July 31st – August 3rd. The 2024 event is already sold out with a line-up that includes Scorpions, Amon Amarth, Blind Guardian, In Extremo, Pain, Beast In Black, and many more. Details here.

  About:

  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 29 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 giving 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 2024 and compete against the winners of 29 other 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/MetalBattleCanada.Official​
  ​Twitter.com/MetalBattleCan​
  ​Instagram.com/MetalBattleCanada.Official

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