Search Results: toronto

• Canadian Power Thrash PHEAR's Heaviest Sound To Date On New Album "Save Our Souls" (Produced by Jon Howard (Threat Signal))

  Feb 13, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Canadian metal contingent PHEAR has unleashed their second full-length album "Save Our Souls", now available as of February 13th, 2025 with digital distribution from Golden Robot Records. The new record follows the band's award-winning album “Instanitarium” (2019), and their critically acclaimed EP “The Curse Lives On” (2020).

  With their arena-caliber sound, "Save Our Souls" was produced, mixed, and mastered by Jon Howard (Threat Signal), and can be best described as the heaviest offering from PHEAR to date. Most of the album was written during the dark times of Covid. "Not a lot to be happy about during that time," adds vocalist Patrick Mulock.

  Extremely passionate and driven, PHEAR is always thinking of new ways to entertain its fans, and "Save Our Souls" is no exception. It has taken four years to complete (mostly due to covid). Led by Patrick Mulock and producer Jon Howard in the studio, each musician was pushed hard to get the best out of each of them and they delivered.

  "We had a lot of time to craft these songs. We didn’t have any time restraints. We would go into the studio and do three songs at a time. We were very excited to work with Jon Howard (Threat Signal) again. Jon is the sixth member of Phear. The studio experience was great as we fed off each other's ideas. We pushed each other to get the best performances we could. There are NO FILLERS here. Seven String guitars have played a big part in this. Our sound has grown. The bass guitar on this album is HUGE! The drumming from Mike Harshaw was also very aggressive. If you were to ask me now…This is the heaviest Phear has ever been……….for now lol!" says Mulock.

  A listening experience of thrash, prog, and classic metal elements, PHEAR offers a strong balance from infectious choruses to melodic and growling vocals for true heavy metal nostalgia. Their two lead singles, the album's title track and "Snake" are sure to make you throw up your hail horns and rock out with a sore neck from the headbanging. Plus the band offers up their cover version of Nevermore's "Narcosynthesis".

  "We feel that Phear fans will LOVE this album. We have played some of these songs live and they have gone over amazingly. The first time we played the title track “Save Our Souls”, the entire club was singing the chorus. And it has happened everywhere we have played since…….. No better feeling in the world!" adds Mulock.

  PHEAR features Patrick Mulock (Lead Vocals) (Eidolon, Rampage), Pat Rogers (Lead & Rhythm Guitars) (Profaner- 2016 Wacken Metal Battle Canada Champions), Alex Zubair (Lead & Rhythm Guitars) (Burn to Black, Nadar Sadek, Iomair, Nephelium), Andrew Suarez (Drums) (Fatality, The Slyde - 2023 Wacken Metal Battle Canada Champions) and Chris Boshis (Bass) (Conflicted).

  Throughout their existence, PHEAR has had the honour of opening for German metal legend UDO DIRSCHNEIFER, THE DEAD DAISIES, and STRYPER, along with performing on a pre-show for icons and heroes IRON MAIDEN in 2019 in Toronto at Budweiser Stage.

  Recommended for fans of Iron Maiden, Megadeth, Judas Priest, Dream Theater (prog elements), and Metallica, PHEAR's sophomore album "Save Our Souls" is available from Golden Robot Records at the following link (Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon) - https://orcd.co/save-our-souls​

  Track Listing​
  1. Aftershock (5:11)
  2. Save Our Souls (6:39)
  3. Snake (5:26)
  4. Narcosynthesis* (5:29) (*Nevermore Cover)
  5. New World Error (5:11)
  6. Lease on Life (7:02)
  7. Bleed (7:57)
  8. On Thin Ice (8:20)
  9. Delusions (Live) 6:45)
  Album Length: 58:03

  Album Credits:​
  All songs performed by: Phear
  All songs written by: Phear
  *excluding “Narcosynthesis” Written by Nevermore
  Produced by: Jon Howard and Phear
  Mixed by: Jon Howard and Phear
  Mastered by: Jon Howard (Woodward Avenue Studios)
  Album Artwork for “Save Our Souls”: Drake Mefestta
  ​

  Recording Band Line Up:​
  Patrick Mulock - Lead Vocals
  Chris Boshis - Bass Guitars, Backing Vocals
  Alex Zubair - Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar
  Pat Rogers - Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar
  Mike Harshaw - Drums

  Live Band Line Up​
  Patrick Mulock - Lead Vocals
  Chris Boshis - Bass Guitar, Backing Vocals
  Alex Zubair - Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar
  Pat Rogers - Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar
  Andrew Suarez - Drums

  More info:​
  ​https://phearofficial.com​
  ​https://www.facebook.com/phearband​
  ​https://www.instagram.com/spreadthephear

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• ART OF ATTRITION - Cross Canada "The Subservient Bloodletting Tour" w/ Beguiler + New Blackened Technical Deathcore Single “Subserviate & Decay”

  Feb 6, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Red Deer, AB extreme metal outfit Art of Attrition unleashes their latest single “Subserviate & Decay”. The track showcases the band's signature blend of relentless brutality and melodic complexity while pushing into bold new territory.

  “Subserviate & Decay” delivers the classical Art of Attrition sound that fans have come to expect - a devastating combination of 8-string guitars, gravity blast beats, and guttural vocals - before taking an unexpected turn after the bridge breakdown. The band expands:

  “It is modern primitive. It embodies all you love about Art of Attrition and then slaps you in the face with a caveman club. We loved writing this song, recording the parts, and developing its uniqueness in our catalog. It serves as a visceral reminder of the necessity of internal self-love and confidence.”

  Since their formation in 2019, Art of Attrition has carved out their niche in the extreme metal landscape; their 2023 debut album “The Void Eternal” and 2024’s “...And It Will All End Forever” established them as a force in the technical deathcore scene. The single represents a conscious step outside the band's comfort zone, incorporating elements from other genres they love. It is especially recommended for fans of Lorna Shore, Aversions Crown, and Kublai Khan.

  Watch and listen to the video for “Subserviate & Decay” via TheCirclepit at https://youtu.be/55K4q_d0znQ​

  Spotify - https://spoti.fi/4gREec7

  ​In additional news, Art of Attrition along with 2024 Wacken Metal Battle Canada Champions, Toronto, ON's Beguiler be hitting the road across Canada, east to the west this May for "The Subservient Bloodletting Tour" (dates listed below). This cross-country trek marks a new chapter for both bands as they expand their reach, unleashing their most punishing sets to date along with new songs to unveil. Enter the moshpit for these two bands' audio assaults of some good ol’ extreme sonic carnage!

  The Subservient Bloodletting Tour w/ Art of Attrition, Beguiler​
  May 2 - La Source de la Martinière- Quebec City, QC
  May 3 - Piranha Bar - Montréal, QC
  May 4 - Taverne Royale - Trois Rivières, QC
  May 7 - The Union - Kitchener, ON
  May 8 - Queens Nightclub - Barrie, ON
  May 9 - Dominion House - Windsor, ON
  May 10 - Sneaky Dee’s - Toronto, ON
  May 11 - Dominion Tavern - Ottawa, ON
  May 14 - SideStage - Winnipeg, MB
  May 15 - Black Cat Tavern - Saskatoon, SK
  May 16 - The Vat - Red Deer, AB
  May 17 - Dickens - Calgary, AB
  May 23 - Stariite Temple - Edmonton, AB
  May 24 - The Cobalt - Vancouver, BC

  More info: http://artofattrition.com | https://www.facebook.com/ArtofAttrition | https://www.instagram.com/artofattrition​
  
  

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

  Feb 5, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

  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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• DEREV Returns With Powerful New Single “Cyclone” Ahead of Upcoming Album "Troubled Mind" Out March 2025

  Jan 15, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Toronto, Canada's progressive metal band Derev is unveiling their latest single “Cyclone” a dynamic exploration of inner turmoil and redemption that showcases the band's evolution while staying true to their signature sound. The track follows their earlier single “Room 9” and is the latest preview of their highly awaited first full-length album “Troubled Mind” slated for release on March 26, 2025. The band comments on the lyrical content:

  “Building on the narrative, this song revolves around the negative thoughts that plague our minds, constantly reminding us of our perceived unworthiness and shortcomings. This mental state, "Imposter Syndrome" makes us doubt our skills and successes, leaving us feeling unworthy, ashamed, and fearful of being exposed.”

  “Cyclone” demonstrates Derev's masterful blend of technical prowess and emotional depth, featuring intricate instrumentation that builds from a tension-filled atmosphere to a captivating climax. The song opens with a haunting guitar riff that gradually intensifies as layers of bass and drums create an underlying sense of unrest. This tension ultimately gives way to a soaring, heartwarming guitar solo that brings a moment of clarity before concluding with a memorable cliffhanger riff.

  The forthcoming album "Troubled Mind" promises to take listeners on an emotional journey, featuring both energetic highs and poignant lows. It is recommended for fans of Opeth, Dream Theater, and Porcupine Tree.

  Watch and listen to the lyric video for “Cyclone”.

  Spotify - https://show.co/XRS9Tlm​

  Due out March 26, 2025, "Troubled Mind" is available for album pre-order at https://www.derevmusic.com/store​

  First single - Animated video for “Room 9” at https://youtu.be/ryl-vajc7-M​
  ​

  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​

  About: “Divided by war, United by music”

  Derev is a progressive rock band captivating global audiences with its innovative blend of progressive rock and traditional Middle Eastern music.

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

  Derev’s debut release "Leap of Faith" melded the raw energy of hard rock with the rich textures of traditional Middle Eastern music they grew up with, offering a fresh perspective on topics often overlooked in modern music. This distinctive sound quickly caught the attention of both local and international audiences, propelling Derev into a series of successful shows across Canada.

  The band'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 to replace previous singer Adel Saflou who is featured on their forthcoming studio offering "Troubled Mind". Symons' compelling presence and vocal prowess complete the live ensemble.

  As Derev gears up to release their anticipated second album "Troubled Mind" on March 26th, 2025, they continue to carve out a unique niche in the music world. Their innovative sound promises to captivate new listeners and industry veterans alike. Keep an eye on Derev as they redefine what rock music can be.

  Discography:
  2025 - Troubled Mind - LP
  2021 - Leap of Faith - EP

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• WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA Announces BC and Ontario 2025 Battle Rounds - One Band To Rule Them All & Play Wacken Open Air

  Dec 19, 2024 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

  WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA Announces BC and Ontario 2025 Battle Rounds  - One Band To Rule Them All & Play Wacken Open Air

  

  One Band To Rule Them All! After another record-breaking year of submissions from independent bands across the country, Wacken Metal Battle Canada is proud to announce this year's British Columbia and Ontario 2025 battles, which could see one unsigned band crowned champion and perform at one of the world's most prestigious and largest already sold-out metal festivals Wacken Open Air (July 30th – August 2nd) (Attendance of over 80,000 people in Wacken, Germany for over 30 years).

  The 2025 British Columbia and Ontario battles will be held in the following cities and dates with more to be announced for Canada. The national final will be held in Vancouver, BC on May 31st, 2025 at The Rickshaw Theatre.

  2025 Canadian Wacken Battles:​
  ​
  ​British Columbia Dates:​
  March 1 - Vancouver Round 1 @ The Cobalt
  March 2 - BC Interior Round @ Jackknife Brewing
  March 22 - Vancouver Round 2 @ The Cobalt
  March TBC - Vancouver Island Round @ Lucky Bar
  May 3 - BC Final @ The Cobalt
  May 31 - National Final @ The Rickshaw, Vancouver
  ​
  ​Ontario Dates:​
  January 10 - London Round @ Rum Runners
  Atria (guest headliner), Death Club, Dead Days, 4HateU8
  FB: https://www.facebook.com/events/1944970149316798/
  Ticket link: https://www.ticketweb.ca/event/whacken-metal-battle-2025-rum-runners-tickets/14091163
  ​
  January 24 - Hamilton Round @ Main Stage Rehearsal
  The Good Depression, Killotine, Zero Tolerance, Devilz By Definition, Zero End
  Ticket link: https://wackenmetalbattle.bigcartel.com/product/wacken-metal-battle-jan-24-hamilton
  ​
  January 25 - Toronto Round 1 @ Hard Luck
  Pillars of Autumn, Ischemic, Purveyor of Chaos, Unkle Skurvey
  Ticket link: https://wackenmetalbattle.bigcartel.com/product/wacken-metal-battle-jan-25-toronto
  ​
  February 1 - Toronto Round 2@ Hard Luck
  Seagrave, Nepenthe, Panic Response, The Animal Warfare Act
  Ticket link: https://wackenmetalbattle.bigcartel.com/product/wacken-metal-battle-feb-1-toronto

  Edmonton, AB - TBA
  Calgary, AB - TBA
  Ottawa, ON - TBA
  Montreal, QC - TBA
  Quebec City, QC - TBA

  The 2025 WMBC champion will receive the following:​
  - A slot at the 2025 Wacken Open Air Festival.
  - Full professional backline provided.
  - $1,000 CAD towards flights to Germany.
  - VIP camping at the festival.

  The 2024 WMBC national final was held in Edmonton, AB at The Starlite Room on May 25th and witnessed 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 was crowned 2024 champion Toronto's Beguiler who moved on to perform as the only independent Canadian band at the International Battle at Wacken Open Air 2024 (July 31st – August 3rd).

  Live Full Video of 2024 WMBC National Final in Edmonton, AB - https://www.youtube.com/live/dCYiImMkzq4​

  List of previous WMBC national winners Beguiler (Toronto, ON - 2024), 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 2025 will be the 34th edition of the festival and will be held from July 30th – August 2nd. The 2025 event is already sold out with a line-up that includes Machine Head, Saltatio Mortis, Papa Roach, Gojira, Apocalyptica, Saxon, Within Temptation, Dimmu Borgir, Ministry, 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 30 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 2025 and compete against the winners of 29 other countries in a final global battle. All battle rounds are judged by respected local music industry representatives.

  Rules for participation: https://www.metal-battle.com/rules/​

  Links:​
  ​Metal-Battle.com​​
  ​Facebook.com/WMBCanada.official​
  ​Twitter.com/MetalBattleCan​
  ​Instagram.com/MetalBattleCanada.Official​

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  Media Partners:​
  Bravewords.com
  Metal-Rules.com
  Absolute Underground Magazine
  BrokenNeckRadio.com
  V13.net
  MetalDevastationRadio
  Rich Embury (internationally syndicated DJ)
  GhostCultMag.com
  Rocknroam.ca
  Vox & Hops Podcast
  The Metal Voice

  Promoter Partners:​
  Boonsdale Records
  Dungeonworks Productions
  The Invisible Orange
  Big Nate Productions
  ConcertWorks
  Asher Media Relations

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