Search Results: progressive

• Proggers SHUMAUN Unveils Their Fourth Album “Opposing Mirrors” Featuring An All-Star Lineup of Drummers - Thomas Lang (Peter Gabriel, Paul Gilbert), Marco Minnemann (The Aristocrats), Leo Margarit (Pain of Salvation)

  Jun 28, 2024 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  (L to R) – Tyler Kim: Guitar, Farhad Hossain: Vocals, Guitar, Keys, Jose Mora: Bass

  Progressive rock band Shumaun, from Virginia, USA is thrilled to announce the release of their highly anticipated introspective fourth album “Opposing Mirrors”. This new album is chock full of the band's signature blend of melodic, progressive, and accessible rock driven by Farhad Hossain. Featuring a stellar lineup of drummers, including Thomas Lang, Leo Margarit (Pain of Salvation), and Marco Minnemann (The Aristocrats), the album is set to be a landmark release in Shumaun's career. Hossain comments on the album:

  “The album is intended to be listened to sequentially, although there are standout singles dispersed throughout. There’s a natural flow between the songs, and the lyrics contribute to a conceptual feel. In essence, the album is kind of conceptual, and the title, “Opposing Mirrors” encapsulates this theme perfectly. Whether it’s reflecting on a loved one, an adversary, or individuals grappling to connect, the album delves into the challenges of understanding “the other” by means of self-reflection and awareness and viewing them as a mirror for oneself, fostering compassion and empathy in the process.”

  Hossain continues to explain that this album is a little more explorative than their previous one. It retains their signature progressive elements but with a stronger focus on guitars with the layered vocals remaining intact. Mixed and mastered by Brett Caldas-Lima at Tower Studio in France, the album delivers a polished yet dynamic sound that is sure to resonate with fans old and new.

  “Opposing Mirrors” is best experienced as a cohesive journey, with each track contributing to a thematic coherence that invites listeners to delve deeper into its rich tapestry of sound. The lyrics for this album were inspired directly by life events and the prevailing state of the world. It is recommended for fans of Porcupine Tree, Fates Warning, and Dream Theater.

  “Opposing Mirrors” is due out on June 28, 2024, and available for pre-order at https://shumaun.bandcamp.com​

  Spotify - https://spoti.fi/3V9G00C​​

  Track Listing:​
  1. The Perils of Amnesia (8:06)
  2. Balance (6:00)
  3. Opposing Mirrors (4:26)
  4. Anxiety and Daydreams (6:00)
  5. That Which Turns (4:54)
  6. Beyond Reflection (6:28)
  7. Some Memories 4:10)
  8. Porcelain Trees (9:26)
  ​
  Album Band Lineup
  Farhad Hossain — Vocals, Guitars, Keyboards
  Jose Mora — Bass
  Tyler Kim — Guitars
  Drums:
  Thomas Lang (Tracks 1, 3, 8)
  Marco Minnemann (Tracks 4, 7)
  Leo Margarit (Tracks 5, 6)
  Farhad Hossain (Track 2)
  ​

  More info: Shumaun.com | Facebook.com/shumaun | Instagram.com/shumaunofficial

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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​

  ​

  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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• Canada's THE APHELION Announce Prog Metal Opus Album “Nascence” And First Two Singles “Deserter” and “Flight”

  Jun 7, 2024 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

  

  Hard-hitting progressive metal band, The Aphelion, from Ottawa, Canada proudly announces the release of their upcoming album “Nascence” coming out on August 9th, 2024, and have two music videos already out for the debut singles “Deserter” and “Flight”. The album is one half a pair, an enrapturing concept album that tells the story of a man’s descent into madness and his own mind in response to the mundanity and repetitiveness of the world around him. They dive into the singles:

  “‘Deserter’ was the obvious choice for a lead single; it’s a great cross-section of what the rest of the album has in store and a barnstormer of a tune from the first second to the last. The live reception to this song has always been big so we tried to capture that energy on the record. ‘Flight’ is by far the heaviest piece of music we’ve ever released, and one of our favourite live songs as well.”

  The album finale “Deserter” is a culmination of all of the sounds across this album, and features indulgent non-linear songwriting tied together with catchy choruses. The song pushes each member to their limit at one point or another across its runtime and features complex polymeters and incredibly fast passages. “Flight” is by far the heaviest song on the album, an homage to thrash metal and prog death giants such as Gojira. It moves at a near break-neck pace across its nearly seven-minute track time across blistering solos, thrashy riffs, and pummeling breakdowns.

  Since their formation in 2015, The Aphelion has built a reputation for their innovative sound, dramatic flair, and emotional depth. Their music is complex, with unexpected shifts in genre to create contrast and bring levity. The singles are available on YouTube and recommended for fans of Haken, Leprous, and Opeth.

  ​

  Spotify - https://spoti.fi/3wWgJOq

  ​Due out on August 9th, 2024, album pre-order for “Nascence” is available at https://theaphelionofficial.bandcamp.com.

  Track Listing:​
  1. Prenascent (2:38)
  2. Nascence (6:55)
  3. The Seed of Doubt (5:26)
  4. Fragility (5:49)
  5. The Heavy Mist (5:31)
  6. Flight (6:48)
  7. The Interloper (6:36)
  8. Deserter (7:45)
  Album Length (47:28)

  More info: Theaphelionband.com

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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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