Search Results: porcupine-tree

  • FEN's Doug Harrison' Releases Solo Project SLUG COMPARISON's Third Album "A Battle to the End Fought on the Edge of a Knife"

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    Doug Harrison (Slug Comparison) - Photo Credit: Bailey Ennig

    Canadian vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter Doug Harrison, known for his progressive rock outfit FEN, is excited to share his solo project SLUG COMPARISON's third album, "A Battle to the End Fought on the Edge of a Knife," out now, as of May 9th, 2025.

    Recorded over the same period as Fen's Dear Mouse (Sept 2024). Both recordings had been a long time coming, and then by chance, they converged to completion at the same time.

    "It became a bit of a competition to see which one would be mastered first. In the end, it was pretty much a tie, because I had a couple of recalls for the Slug Comparison master, but I wanted to put out Dear Mouse first, because it had been so bloody long in the making, and we were desperate to wash our hands of it," adds Harrison.

    Slug Comparison's previous records were built on the layering of electric and acoustic guitars, and earnest, melodic vocals. This latest 11-song album has abandoned the acoustics and is more riff-heavy to lean into his early influence of grunge.

    Harrison comments:

    "For past albums, it was tricky keeping the momentum going with half the songs being acoustic and light and the other half being heavy-ish. This time around, electric guitars carry the listener from beginning to end. A straight-up rock album. That was the goal. And lyrically, it follows in the tradition of songs like AC/DC’s “It’s a Long Way to the Top,” the difference being that Slug Comparison hasn’t left the house yet. A Battle to the End Fought on the Edge of a Knife is a grief statement about the abandonment of rockstar dreams. It’s also a collection of yearnings, regrets, and celebrations along the way."

    "A Battle to the End Fought on the Edge of a Knife" was written by Harrison along with vocals, guitar, bass, and programming. He is joined by drummer Flavio Cirillo (Art of Dying, Puddle of Mudd), along with a collaboration on the song “Wish to Adapt” with Matt McCallum. Mixing was done by Ben Kaplan (Biffy Clyro, Bend Sinister, Ninjaspy, Mother Mother, Corb Lund) and mastering by Brock McFarlane at CPS Mastering (Mother Mother, Corb Lund).

    Harrison does assure fans that future releases will continue to explore the moody, acoustic-based territories that defined his earlier work. After this album, fans can expect a new EP from Slug Comparison in 2026. Recommended for fans of Mother Mother, The Killers, and Porcupine Tree, "A Battle to the End Fought on the Edge of a Knife" is available at the following links:

    Spotify - https://spoti.fi/452Fk2t​

    Bandcamp - https://slugcomparison.bandcamp.com/album/a-battle-to-the-end-fought-on-the-edge-of-a-knife

    ​

    Track Listing:​
    1. Wish to Adapt (3:46)
    2. March through the Forest (3:54)
    3. Game of Repression (3:57)
    4. Undead Plots (4:06)
    5. Outta the Jam (4:51)
    6. A Battle to the End Fought on the Edge of a Knife (4:13)
    7. Too Much Love (5:04)
    8. Metal Roots Came Twisting (6:45)
    9. Played for a Centipede (2:36)
    10. Of Being Apart (5:19)
    11. Hamsters in a Tub (3:02)
    Album Length: 47:33

    More info: Slugcomparison.com | Instagram.com/slugcomparison | Facebook.com/slugcomparison

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  • DEREV Release Debut Album "Troubled Mind" + Cross-Canada Tour Dates (QC/ON/MB/SK/BC)

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    Toronto, Canada's Derev is proud to release their first full length, "Troubled Mind", now available as of March 26th on digital platforms (links below).

    The follow-up to their 2021 debut EP "Leap of Faith," “Troubled Mind” takes a deep dive into the intricacies of the human psyche, addressing a spectrum of mental health issues with each track, ranging from temporary mental instability to more severe conditions such as schizophrenia, cognitive immobility (a fixation on the past), and depression stemming from loss.

    Offering a diverse range of sounds from mellow, calm tracks to adrenaline-pumping heavy headbangers while maintaining their distinctive progressive rock sound, enriched with Middle Eastern influences. Incorporating more prominent keyboard parts, experimenting with various time signatures, and introducing new instruments such as the Cajon, Darbuka, and electronic elements. This evolution showcases the band's innovative spirit and commitment to pushing musical boundaries.

    The band adds:

    “This album is very personal and introspective. It’s full of memorable songs and parts to listen to and digest, both from a musical and lyrical perspective. Every song tackles a different state of mind and takes the listener into their thoughts of a mental state that they can relate to. As this one marks our second official release, we think the fans will be excited about hearing what Derev still has to offer. They’re in for a crazy ride full of energetic ups and heartbreaking downs.”

    Derev was conceived after founding member and drummer Michel Karakach, after fleeing the war in the Middle East and finding refuge in Toronto, Canada, reunited with his best friend, guitarist Armando Bablanian, to turn what was once a mere childhood dream into a powerful reality.

    Derev's dynamic lineup now includes bassist Stan Komarovsky, providing the backbone of Derev's sound, and keyboardist Ran Zehavi from the progressive rock band Scalar, adding depth and complexity. Leading the live charge is frontman and vocalist Mike Symons, who has replaced previous singer Adel Saflou, whose recorded vocals are featured on "Troubled Mind".

    Recommended for fans of Opeth, Dream Theater, Porcupine Tree, Soen, and Riverside, "Troubled Mind" is available at https://www.derevmusic.com/store (on Vinyl, CD, Tour Pass) and all digital platforms (Spotify, Bandcamp).

    In additional news, Derev is touring in Ontario to support "Troubled Mind" and will continue their road shows across Western Canada for May (listed below).

    ​

    DEREV - Troubled Mind ON/ QC Tour​
    March 28 - Waterloo, ON - Midnight Run Café w/ Local Goblin
    March 29 - Guelph, ON - The Red Papaya w/ Jupiter Hollow, Crown For A King, and Exolithic
    April 5 - Montreal, QC - Piranha Bar w/ World On Alert & Vinyl Hero
    April 11 - Hamilton, QC - Club Absinthe w/ 8 Banger, Hollow Core, Bad Communication
    April 12 - Brantford, ON - Brandi’s Kitchen & Bar w/ Jupiter Hollow & Guests

    DEREV - Troubled Mind - Western Canada Tour​
    May 2 - Sudbury, ON - The Townhouse w/ Jeidei, Codos
    May 3 - Marathon, ON - Biloxys Wings and Things
    May 4 - TBA (North Western Ontario)
    May 6 - TBA (Manitoba)
    May 8 - Regina, SK - Revival Music Room w/ Fame Fatale, 66 Aces
    May 9 - Saskatoon, SK - Amigos Cantina w/ Out Of Frequency, 66 Aces
    May 10 - Edmonton, SK - Rendezvous Pub w/ Darkened Skies, Silent Script, Misplaced Intentions
    May 12 - Grand Forks, BC - 4th St. Studio w/ guests
    May 13 - Kamloops, BC - The Blue Grotto w/ Augur, Gregarious
    May 14 - Vancouver, BC - The Roxy Cabaret w/ guests
    May 16 - Vernon, BC - Longhorn Pub w/ None The Wiser, Scared Soul Empire
    May 17 - Cranbrook, BC - The York Public House w/ Phaeton
    May 18 - Calgary, AB - Verns w/ Humans As Totems, The Future Relics, Rocky Mountain Maniacs, 13 Strikes
    May 20 - Winnipeg, MB - Sidestage w/ Valley Narrow, Sunbreather
    May 22 - Thunder Bay, ON - Black Pirates Pub w/ Cycle Of Disobedience, Along The Lines, The Fixer
    May 23 - Sault Ste. Marie, ON - Soo Blaster w/ guests
    May 24 - Timmins, ON - Victory Tavern w/ guests

    ​

    Track Listing:​
    1. Buried Voice (7:23)
    2. Cyclone (5:39)
    3. Crawl Space (1:16)
    4. Room 9 (6:15)
    5. Paracusia (4:35)
    6. Tides of Time (5:59)
    7. Darker Self (5:44)
    8. Trace Within (5:01)
    ​
    ​Album Band Line Up:​
    Adel Saflou - Vocals
    Armando Bablanian - Guitar
    Michel Karakach - Drums
    Stan Komarovsky - Bass
    Ran Zehavi - Keys
    ​
    ​Live Band Line Up:​
    Mike Symons - Vocals
    Armando Bablanian - Guitar
    Michel Karakach - Drums
    Stan Komarovsky - Bass
    Ran Zehavi - Keys

    More info: Derevmusic.com | Facebook.com/derevmusic | Instagram.com/derevmusic | X.com/derevmusic​

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  • California Prog LUNAR Reflects On Painful Memories In “A Summer To Forget” Lyric Video Off New Album “Tempora Mutantur”

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    Following the recent release of their emotionally charged concept album “Tempora Mutantur” this past January, Sacramento, USA’s progressive metal collective Lunar unveils their lyric video for “A Summer To Forget”. The final visual installment in the album's narrative arc promises to be a poignant exploration of memory, loss, and the transformative power of musical storytelling, continuing the band's unique approach to progressive metal as a form of emotional expression. They comment on the track:

    “The album starts off with a song that sounds a bit upbeat musically (heavy with the horns) despite a fairly dark lyrical theme: dealing with memories, how we sometimes forget what we wish we wouldn’t and cling on to what we wish we could forget.”

    The track represents a powerful entry point into the album's complex exploration of temporal experiences and personal transformation. “A Summer To Forget” embodies the band's commitment to creating music that transcends traditional genre limitations, offering listeners a nuanced journey through personal pain and potential healing.

    Continued and driven by drummer and primary songwriter Alex Bosson (Helion Prime, Planeswalker) after the passing of co-band founder Ryan Erwin in 2018, “Tempora Mutantur” is the result of a deeply personal and introspective creative process. The video continues the band's tradition of transforming personal struggles into universal musical experiences, inviting listeners to find their own emotional resonance within the intricate layers of sound and metaphorical storytelling. Fans of Tool, Porcupine Tree and Ayreon should be among the first to check out this track.

    Watch and listen to the lyric video for “A Summer To Forget” via its premiere on Prog-Sphere HERE. ​

    Lunar's fresh lineup features guitarists Carlos Alvarez and Connor McCray (Vis Mystica) along with keyboardist Anthony Stahl plus album guests Wayne Ingram (Wildrun), Joe Gullace (Thank You Scientist), and Sam Vallen (Caligula's Horse).

    A studio project since first conceived in 2014, LUNAR will make its live debut next year at the 2025 Hyperspace Metal Festival in Vancouver, BC, Canada on April 11th. Info here.

    LUNAR's "Tempora Mutantur" was released on January 31, 2025 and is available from Saibot Reigns Records.

    Album order - http://lunarbandofficial.bandcamp.com/

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

    Previous Videos:

    "Watch The Weather Change" - https://youtu.be/WKdnZD_DJsE​

    "Weakening Winter Touch" - https://youtu.be/0in2WNVshGM​

    "Spring In My Step - https://youtu.be/mtOhnwOpK_0​

    “Fall Back Into Old Habits” - https://youtu.be/J4jTMq-XaTY​

    (Album Artwork by Ed Bosson)

    Track Listing:​
    1. A Summer To Forget – 6:37
    2. Fall Back Into Old Habits – 11:16 ft. guest guitar solo by Wayne Ingram (Wilderun)
    3. Seasonal Interlude – 4:47
    4. Weakening Winter Touch – 8:46
    5. Spring In My Step – 7:26
    6. Tempora Mutantur: Part I – Passage of Time – 3:12 ft. guest guitar solo by Sam Vallen (Caligula's Horse)
    7. Tempora Mutantur: Part II – Broken Pendulum – 3:47
    8. Tempora Mutantur: Part III – Watch The Weather Change – 4:51
    Album Length: 50:45

    Album Credits:​
    Performance and Writing credits - full info HERE.
    Produced by: Alex Bosson
    Mixed by: Carlos Alvarez
    Mastered by: Tony Lindgren

    Album Main Lineup:​
    Chandler Mogel – Clean Vocals
    Brian Lewis – Growl Vocals
    Carlos Alvarez – Rhythm Guitar
    Connor McCray – Lead Guitar
    Ryan Price – Bass
    Alex Bosson – Drums
    Anthony Stahl – Keyboards

    Live Lineup:​
    Chandler Mogel – Clean Vocals
    Brian Lewis – Growl Vocals
    Jordan Price – Guitars
    Ryan Price – Bass
    Alex Bosson - Drums

    For more info: Facebook.com/lunarbandofficial | Instagram.com/lunarbandofficial | X.com/LunarBandOffcl​

     

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  • Toronto Prog JUPITER HOLLOW Announces Ontario Dates + New Single / Video "Incivility"

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    NEWS RELEASE

    Montreal, QC - February 5, 2025

    Toronto Prog JUPITER HOLLOW Announces Ontario Dates + New Single / Video "Incivility"

    L-R - Nathaniel Reynolds-Welsh - Drums - Grant MacKenzie - Guitar, Kenny Parry - Vocals, John-Ryan Godfrey - Bass

    Toronto proggers Jupiter Hollow announces they will perform two Ontario show dates for March and April with more to be announced in the coming year (listed below). The band has been expanding their catalog with their latest single and music video "Incivility" (watch below) released this past November as they make progress on more music to be released in the coming months.

    Upcoming Shows:​
    March 29 – Guelph @ Red Papaya - info - w/ Derev, Crown For A King, +1 TBA
    April 12 – Brantford @ Brandi’s - info w/ Derev, +2 TBA

    Pushing from one horizon onto the next, Jupiter Hollow's growth has come a long way since making their debut as a duo in 2015. Led by the fearless Grant MacKenzie and Kenny Parry, this recording and songwriting powerhouse duo has transformed into a live quartet with the addition of John Ryan Godfrey (Bass) and Nathaniel Reynolds-Welsh (Drums).

    Advancing their unique brand of progressive rock/metal, the band's latest single "Incivility" serves as a bold statement, reflecting Jupiter Hollow’s evolution both sonically and thematically. With its intricate arrangements, evocative lyrics, and captivating visuals, the single is a testament to the band’s relentless dedication to pushing artistic boundaries.

    The band comments on the single:

    "At its core, Incivility reflects humanity's inner struggles, the relentless pursuit of purpose, and the emotional void created by modern distractions. The lyrics delve into themes of arrogance, wasted time, and the consequences of superficial existence, symbolized by "filming your bones"—a critique of documenting life rather than living it.

    The song wrestles with the tension between ambition and the emptiness of unmet expectations, asking hard questions: At what cost do we chase our dreams? and How do we reconcile purpose with the pressures we hide? The recurring imagery of the "yawning cage of wasted love" evokes a profound sense of entrapment, urging listeners to confront the emotional weight of past mistakes while seeking true fulfillment.

    Musically and lyrically, Incivility challenges listeners to reflect on their lives, embracing the discomfort of self-awareness while pushing forward with resilience. It’s both a cautionary tale and a call to action—demanding authenticity in a world that often values the opposite."

    Recommended for fans of Porcupine Tree, Coheed, and Cambria, Rush, and Protest The Hero.

    Spotify - https://spoti.fi/4g0cqSV

    ​

    With thought-provoking lyrics, unique vocal melodies, harmonies, powerful guitar riffs, unyielded songwriting, and Jupiter Hollow’s incessant desire to bring fans on a journey, there’s always something new to explore. Thus far they have two full-length albums under their belts: 2020’s “Bereavement”, and 2018’s “AHDOMN”, and they have another one in the works. Planning to release more singles over the coming months, Jupiter Hollow will take the time to ensure a polished, impressive offerings song by song. The band wants nothing more than to make their art and share the experience with as many people as they can.

    More info: JupiterHollow.ca | Facebook | X | Instagram

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  • Streaming Now! Prog Collective LUNAR Unveils Groundbreaking Concept Album “Tempora Mutantur”

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    Sacramento, USA’s progressive metal pioneers LUNAR are set to release their most ambitious project to date, “Tempora Mutantur” on January 31, 2025. A meticulously crafted concept album that explores the intricate passages of time, personal transformation, and emotional landscapes, the record represents a milestone in the band's continuing musical evolution. They comment on the release:

    “We’re very excited to present our new album “Tempora Mutantur” to the world! This album is more thematic rather than conceptual like the last album. This album deals with something everyone can relate to and no one can escape: the passing of time. As we get older, our perspective changes, we gain some things, and lose others… sometimes the things and ones we love. And we struggle and fight along the way.”

    Lunar hopes that fans will be able to resonate with the album and find some solace in it as it is highly relatable to the theme of time passing. Continued and driven by drummer and primary songwriter Alex Bosson (Helion Prime, Planeswalker) after the passing of co-band founder Ryan Erwin in 2018, the album is the result of a deeply personal and introspective creative process.

    The album's eight tracks weave a complex narrative that explores themes of seasonal change as metaphors for personal growth, mental health, and the passage of time. From the opening track to the three-part title suite that closes the album, Lunar demonstrates its unique ability to transform personal struggles into universal musical statements that resonate with listeners on multiple levels. The album is recommended for fans of Haken, Tool, and Porcupine Tree.

    Listen to the album stream premiere of “Tempora Mutantur” via Decibel Magazine HERE.

    ​

    Lunar's fresh lineup features guitarists Carlos Alvarez and Connor McCray (Vis Mystica) along with keyboardist Anthony Stahl plus album guests Wayne Ingram (Wildrun), Joe Gullace (Thank You Scientist), and Sam Vallen (Caligula's Horse).

    A studio project since first conceived in 2014, LUNAR will make its live debut next year at the 2025 Hyperspace Metal Festival in Vancouver, BC, Canada on April 11th. Info here.

    LUNAR's "Tempora Mutantur" will be available from Saibot Reigns Records as of January 31st, 2025.

    Album pre-order - http://lunarbandofficial.bandcamp.com/​

    ​

    (Album Artwork by Ed Bosson)

    Track Listing:​
    1. A Summer To Forget – 6:37
    2. Fall Back Into Old Habits – 11:16 ft. guest guitar solo by Wayne Ingram (Wilderun)
    3. Seasonal Interlude – 4:47
    4. Weakening Winter Touch – 8:46
    5. Spring In My Step – 7:26
    6. Tempora Mutantur: Part I – Passage of Time – 3:12 ft. guest guitar solo by Sam Vallen (Caligula's Horse)
    7. Tempora Mutantur: Part II – Broken Pendulum – 3:47
    8. Tempora Mutantur: Part III – Watch The Weather Change – 4:51
    Album Length: 50:45

    Album Credits:​
    Performance and Writing credits - full info HERE.
    Produced by: Alex Bosson
    Mixed by: Carlos Alvarez
    Mastered by: Tony Lindgren

    Album Main Lineup:​
    Chandler Mogel – Clean Vocals
    Brian Lewis – Growl Vocals
    Carlos Alvarez – Rhythm Guitar
    Connor McCray – Lead Guitar
    Ryan Price – Bass
    Alex Bosson – Drums
    Anthony Stahl – Keyboards

    Live Lineup:​
    Chandler Mogel – Clean Vocals
    Brian Lewis – Growl Vocals
    Jordan Price – Guitars
    Ryan Price – Bass
    Alex Bosson - Drums

    For more info: Facebook.com/lunarbandofficial | Instagram.com/lunarbandofficial | X.com/LunarBandOffcl | Spotify

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