Search Results: progressive

• FEN Returns With New Album “Dear Mouse”

  Sep 12, 2024 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

  After a twelve-year hiatus, progressive rock band FEN is set to release their sixth studio album, “Dear Mouse”, on September 12, 2024. Emerging from the mountain shadows of Nelson, Canada in 1998, FEN has consistently impressed critics and fans alike with their unique blend of technical proficiency and purposeful songwriting. The band comments:

  “‘Dear Mouse’ is less a comeback album than a tying up of loose ends. The ten songs were all started in 2014 or earlier. They sat as fragments for a long time, but as life pulled the band apart, we couldn’t ignore these unfinished gems—or so we thought of them. We chipped away at them on and off. They dragged us along almost painfully at times. For the final three years, we pushed as hard as our lives would allow. Ultimately, Dear Mouse was a test of our perseverance and of getting out what needed to be said. We can rest now. And we will. We hope you find something in the music to appreciate.”

  “Dear Mouse” marks a significant milestone for the band, breaking their decade-long silence. The album stands at a crossroads of genres, incorporating elements from throughout FEN's discography. Fans can expect a diverse listening experience, with tracks ranging from the multi-movement composition “Seam of the Heart”, which echoes the eerie concept of their earlier work “Heron Leg”, to the infectiously melodic “Ritual Lite”, competing for the title of poppiest tune in their repertoire.

  The album's guitar work is a particular highlight, seamlessly transitioning from jagged riffs to ethereal textures, offering a comprehensive summary of the band's decades-long refinement of their craft. Lyrically, many of the songs on "Dear Mouse" explore themes of endings, touching on subjects such as the conclusion of long-term relationships, employment, and even one's physical home. Despite these potentially heavy themes, the band aims to provide an overall uplifting and energetic listening experience, with a couple of slower tracks for balance. It is recommended for fans of Tool, Porcupine Tree, and Opeth.

  Album Order - https://fencanada.bandcamp.com/album/dear-mouse​

  ​

  Track Listing:​
  1. Ritual Lite - 4:28
  2. Recall - 4:29
  3. Season to Live - 4:57
  4. The Password is I Believe - 2:48
  5. Dying on a Hill (of Cubicle, Window, Steel, and Concrete) - 4:19
  6. The Seam of the Heart - 6:52
  7. Our Latest Quarry - 3:56
  8. E.D.B.D. - 2:37
  9. Dear Mouse - 4:56
  10. Into the Blaze - 5:18
  Album Length: 44:40

  Album Credits:​
  Produced by Fen
  Sheldon Zaharko of Zed Productions: tracked drums and bass, and mixed all songs
  Album mastered by Andy Vandette at Evolve Mastering
  All songs written by Fen
  Oil paintings by Jason Froese
  Band:
  Randall Stoll: drums
  Jeff Caron: bass on tracks 1-9
  Sam Levin: guitar, piano, programming, bass on track 10
  Doug Harrison: vocals, lyrics

  More Info: https://www.facebook.com/fenmusic

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• HARPAZO Shares Dynamic Lyric Video "Ichor" For Futuristic Rock Opera Album “The Crucible”

  Jun 28, 2024 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Rockshots Records is proud to announce the release of "The Crucible", the debut album from HARPAZO, the super-group formed by guitarist Marc Centanni and producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Gary Wehrkamp (Shadow Gallery, Ayreon). This progressive metal rock opera is a thrilling journey through a dystopian future, merging elements of progressive and power metal with symphonic and Celtic influences.

  HARPAZO's unique sound is driven by its all-star lineup featuring legendary musicians from the progressive and Christian metal scenes. Alongside Marc Centanni and Gary Wehrkamp, the album includes performances by: DC Cooper (Royal Hunt), Mark Zonder (Fates Warning, Warlord), Les Carlsen (Bloodgood), Rey Parra (Deny the Fallen, Sacred Warrior), Christian Liljegren (Narnia), Michael Drive Lee (Barren Cross, Worldview), Niklas Kahl (Lord of the Lost, Flaming Row), Lee Lemperle (Outside the Wall), Bruno Sa (Operation Mindcrime), Enzo Donnarumma (Enzo and the Glory Ensemble), and Jennifer Eckhart (Jennifer K Eckhart & Stained Glass Road).

  With intricate compositions and thought-provoking lyrics, "The Crucible" invites listeners into a complex world of intrigue and suspense. The album promises a deeply immersive experience that rewards close listening, revealing subtle details and atmospheric layers with each spin.

  “What we have here is a big juicy concept album for fans of prog to sink their teeth in deep. An album like this could only be captured in the elements of prog-rock / prog-metal world where there are no limits. Who better to orchestrate this madness than prog-metal legends Gary Wehrkamp of Shadow Gallery, DC Cooper of Royal Hunt, and Mark Zonder of Fates Warning? Gary, Mark, DC, and I have gathered some of the most passionate and finest musicians we've worked with to help create what we hope will be a rock opera masterpiece. Each one of the musicians has seamlessly weaved their style into the music and poured their soul into their performances. I am very proud of this album and I truly believe we've got something you can't afford to miss out on!” says Marc Centanni.

  For the album's release day, the band is sharing their latest lyric video for the single “Ichor” featuring DC Cooper (Royal Hunt) on vocals.

  "'Ichor' stands out to us as one of the best examples of Harpazo's dynamic music and storytelling. Boasting soaring operatic vocals, DC Cooper (Royal Hunt) shares mic duties with Gary Wehrkamp (Shadow Gallery), while prog-rock legend drummer Mark Zonder (Warlord/Fates Warning) lays down his signature inspiring and creative beats. The song incorporates dramatic dystopian symphonic orchestration and merges it with potent melodic guitars. The chorus features a large and expansive vocal melody that we believe will immediately capture your attention and stay stuck in your head for days. The narrative of "Ichor" commences with a gripping intro of our anti-hero protagonist, Michael Lightborne, being turned into a cybernetically augmented assassin for Solomon Industries. His job is to influence politicians, eliminate world leaders, and help Jude Solomon establish his new world order using the life-changing serum known as “Ichor”. This mood-setting track on “The Crucible” is the first song on our album and we know you’ll be hooked and want to hear more from our metal opera. We are so excited for you to hear it!" adds Marc Centanni.

   

  the album "The Crucible" is now available as of June 28th, 2024 for digital streaming/download worldwide!

  ​https://lnk.to/DQbZKb3s​

  CD - Europe - https://bit.ly/HarpazoCD​
  CD - North America (Available July 5th) - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D3FK468B/

  For more info:​
  ​Rockshots.eu | https://harpazomusic.com | https://www.facebook.com/Harpazomusic | https://www.instagram.com/harpazo_music

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• 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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