Category: Press Releases

Finnish Heavy Sludge Powerhouse ABYSMAL RITES Signs With Wormholedeath

Hailing from the heart of Finland, heavy sludge trio ABYSMAL RITES is thrilled to announce their signing with Wormholedeath Records for their highly anticipated album, Restoring The Primordial Order, set to unleash its sonic fury on May 9, 2025.

“We are stoked to get signed to Wormhole Death Records! We have been in touch with the company staff since the debut album was in the making and this time we were on the same page again. Huge thanks to everybody involved—we feel honored to be part of the WHD family! Cheers!” – stated ABYSMAL RITES

Recorded deep within the Finnish forest, Restoring The Primordial Order captures the raw energy and authenticity that defines ABYSMAL RITES. The duo, known for their primal and brutal heavy/sludge sound, recorded the bass and drums live, ensuring that the album mirrors the intensity of their electrifying performances.

While their debut album was a journey of experimentation, Restoring The Primordial Order marks a significant evolution in their sound. The pieces have finally fallen into place, showcasing a solidified identity that resonates with their vision.

The album explores themes that explore the core of humanity and reflects on how our behaviors drive us toward inevitable destruction. Despite the wealth of information and opportunities available, humanity seems destined to veer toward a dead end—a realization that offers the band a strange sense of comfort. ABYSMAL RITES confronts the harsh truth of mankind’s struggle to coexist respectfully with each other and with nature itself.

Formed in late 2021 in Tampere, Finland, ABYSMAL RITES began as a duo and quickly evolved into a trio, solidifying their lineup with J on drums, M on bass, and R on vocals. Their first taste of success came with the music video “Polluted,” which was selected for the Most Bizarre category at the Berlin Music Video Festival. Their debut full-length album, Nihilism Is Realism, was self-released in 2023, showcasing their clear vision and determination to carve out a unique sound in the heavy music landscape.

With Restoring The Primordial Order, ABYSMAL RITES invites listeners to join them on a journey through the depths of human experience, wrapped in a sound that is as heavy as it is thought-provoking.

linktr.ee/abysmalritesband
www.instagram.com/abysmalritesband
www.facebook.com/abysmalritesband
abysmalritesband.bandcamp.com
www.youtube.com/@abysmalritesband8874

Nothing More’s new release features Chris Daughtry – The band treats their fans to a deluxe edition of their album CARNAL

NOTHING MORE released a deluxe version of their successful album CARNAL, which offers five bonus tracks. The publisher is Better Noise Music. The deluxe tracks feature covers by famous artists, remixes and live versions of songs from the album, as well as the brand new song WE’RE ALL GONNA DIE, released last month.

The band also releases a new version of their song FREEFALL from the album. The song, which will be released with a music video, features guest Chris Daughtry. The narrative-driven video highlights the song’s story about a firefighter with mental health issues.

“FREEFALL is an anthem for people who are going through uncertain and chaotic times in their lives. We’ve all had experiences where we feel like the rug has been pulled out from under us. Whether it’s the end of a relationship, the loss of a job, or the death of a loved one. We’ve always believed that our losses are invitations to rise to a higher plane of reality, and this song is our way of addressing that idea. Chris Daughtry took this song to new heights with his emotional interpretation. It was an honor to have him on this song,” says the band’s lead singer Jonny Hawkins.

With the song, NOTHING MORE also joined forces with K9s For Warriors to raise awareness for veterans struggling with PTSD and mental health trauma.

“K9s For Warriors trains service dogs and pairs veterans in need with therapy dogs. We believe in the power of these animals to create peace and bring healthy changes to the lives of their companions. I met my city council member Kathryn Brown, who received her own therapy dog ​​from the organization. She told me how much Biggie has improved her life. We need more of these service dogs and therapy dogs trained for veterans and first responders,” guitarist Mark Vollelunga emphasizes.

CARNAL Deluxe album track-list:

1. CARNAL
2. HOUSE ON SAND (feat. Eric V. of I Prevail)
3. IF IT DOESN’T HURT
4. ANGEL SONG (feat. David Draiman)
5. FREEFALL
6. BLAME IT ON THE DRUGS
7. HEAD
8. EXISTENTIAL DREAD
9. HEART
10. DOWN THE RIVER
11. GIVE IT TIME
12. SIGHT
13. STUCK (feat. Sinizter)
14. RUN FOR YOUR LIFE
15. SOUND
16. WE’RE ALL GONNA DIE
17. FREEFALL (feat. Daughtry)
18. ANGEL SONG (feat. David Draiman) Live @ Aftershock
19. HOUSE ON SAND (feat. Eric V. of I Prevail) -MG Remix
20. ANGEL SONG (feat. David Draiman) -JD Remix

NOTHING MORE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | SPOTIFY

DECIMATE METALFEST ANNOUNCES 2025 LINEUP w/ INTO ETERNITY, THE BUNNY THE BEAR, UNTIMELY DEMISE, NECHT, AND MORE

Decimate Metalfest 2025: Uniting Metalheads for an Unforgettable Experience

Decimate Metalfest is thrilled to announce its return to the Millet Agriplex Arena in Millet, Alberta, on June 13th and 14th, 2025, for another electrifying weekend of heavy metal music and community spirit. As one of Western Canada’s premier metal festivals, Decimate Metalfest continues to deliver unforgettable experiences for metal enthusiasts of all kinds!

Reflecting on Decimate Metalfest 2024

The 2024 edition of Decimate Metalfest was a monumental success, featuring an impressive lineup of bands from across Canada and the United States. Attendees were treated to performances spanning various alternative and metal genres, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration. The festival’s commitment to inclusivity was evident, welcoming fans of all ages and all walks of life to partake in the festivities. Highlights included thrilling air guitar contests with real guitars as prizes, an array of vendors, gaming, delectable offerings from local food, and the convenience of nearby camping facilities. ​“We are so grateful to the community of Millet for welcoming us with such open arms. We cannot wait to see you all again this year!”

The Official Lineup for Decimate Metalfest 2025

Building on the momentum of previous years, Decimate Metalfest 2025 promises to elevate the experience even further. Organizers have diligently curated a roster of bands that will deliver high-octane performances. This year’s festival promises to be the biggest yet, featuring an incredible lineup of talent from across Canada and beyond:

INTO ETERNITY – Regina, SK
THE BUNNY THE BEAR – New York / Florida, USA (First time playing in Alberta!)
FAMOUS STRANGERS – Edmonton, AB
UNTIMELY DEMISE – Saskatoon, SK
HAWKING – Vancouver, BC
NECHT – Calgary / Ireland
THE UNENDING – Kelowna, BC
SYRYN – Calgary, AB
BRAIN STEM – Edmonton, AB
AGE OF ASHES – Edmonton, AB
ALMOST DEAD – San Francisco, USA (First time in Canada!)
FLOODGATE – Kelowna, BC
SKEPSIS – Edmonton, AB
THE 21ST AGENDA – Red Deer, AB
WARWOLF – Edmonton, AB
OCEANS UNDER STARS – Edmonton, AB
RENEGADES – Edmonton, AB (Rage Against the Machine Tribute Band)
SUPERMODEL TAXIDERMY – Fort McMurray, AB
BEYOND SUFFERING – Calgary, AB (Wacken Metal Battle Calgary Round 1 Winners)
ACCIDENTS HAPPEN – Edmonton, AB (System of a Down Tribute Band)
VICTORIA LIES – Calgary, AB
COUNTED AMONG SAINTS – Edmonton, AB
PER VELUM (YOUTH) – Calgary, AB
KRADYIL (YOUTH) – Banff, AB
BIRTHDAY GIRL – Calgary, AB (Hostess of Ceremonies)
RED SILENCE – Edmonton, AB
DAMIEN GHOUL – Edmonton, AB
MORTIS X – Edmonton, AB
ABOYACTUALLY – Edmonton, AB
JOJOMOJO – Edmonton, AB

Ticket Information: https://www.decimatemetalfest.com/tickets​

Advance tickets are now available, offering attendees the opportunity to secure their spots at a discounted rate:​

2-Day Pass: $135 (Save $15 off the door price)
Includes access to both days of music and entertainment, plus a free pancake breakfast.
​
Friday Day Pass: $60 (Save $15 off the door price)
Includes access to Friday’s performances.
​
Saturday Day Pass: $90 (Save $15 off the door price)
Includes access to Saturday’s performances and a free pancake breakfast.
​
YES! WE OFFER AFTERPAY!

Children 10 and under can attend for free, making this an inclusive event for families! ​

Camping Accommodations

For those wishing to stay close to the action, camping is available at the Millet Lions Memorial Campground, conveniently located within walking distance of the Millet Agriplex Arena. Camping rates are not-for-profit and go towards maintaining the wonderful community of Millet! Please note that camping reservations must be made separately through the campground’s official website: https://milletlionscampground.com/reserve-campsite/​

Vendor and Volunteer Applications Now Open

Decimate Metalfest is now accepting applications for vendors and volunteers! Whether you want to showcase your business to passionate festival-goers or become an essential part of the event team, we welcome you to apply. Vendors can take advantage of the opportunity to sell their products to a dedicated audience while volunteers gain behind-the-scenes experience and help bring the festival to life. (Yes! We accept Youth volunteers!)

Vendor Applications: https://www.decimatemetalfest.com/vend​

Volunteer Applications: https://www.decimatemetalfest.com/volunteer​

Join the Metal Community

Decimate Metalfest is more than just a music festival; it’s a gathering of the metal family, fostering connections and creating lasting memories. Whether you’re a seasoned metalhead or new to the scene, this festival offers an unparalleled experience of music, camaraderie, and community.​

Stay Connected

For the latest updates, lineup announcements, and ticket purchases, visit the official Decimate Metalfest website. Follow us on social media to stay in the loop:​

Website: https://www.decimatemetalfest.com/​

Facebook: Decimate Metalfest Facebook Page​

Instagram: Decimate Metalfest Instagram​

Linktree: Linktree​

Atmospheric Black/Epic Doom Metal Project Divine Sovereign Signs With Wormholedeath

Polish atmospheric black/epic doom metal project Divine Sovereign, the brainchild of visionary musician Cezary Rochnowski, announces a groundbreaking record deal with Wormholedeath Records. The debut album “Dawn Of A New Age” is set to transport listeners to the mysterious planet Autaxia on May 9, 2025.

Divine Sovereign emerged in 2023 with a mission to craft monumental compositions. Inspired by luminaries such as Ethereal Shroud, Panopticon, Gallowbraid, and Atlantean Kodex, Rochnowski’s sonic landscapes combine crushing doom, soaring atmospheres, and intricate black gaze textures.

The album invites listeners to explore Autaxia, an enigmatic planet where the remnants of a tragically fallen civilization reveal a haunting tale. Dawn of a New Age delves into the dual nature of religious zeal—both as a unifying force and as a catalyst for societal collapse.

The story unfolds through a cinematic lens: a research vessel lands on a desolate world and uncovers the ruins of Autaxia. Archival fragments recount the rise and catastrophic fall of a once-great society consumed by religious extremism. Each track serves as a chilling archaeological excavation, peeling back layers of historical trauma and philosophical depth.

‘Dawn Of A New Age’ isn’t just an album – it’s an existential expedition into the heart of human belief systems. Divine Sovereign examines how spiritual passion can simultaneously inspire remarkable resilience and trigger devastating societal collapse.

divinesovereign.bandcamp.com

www.facebook.com/DivineSovereign

Wretched Path from Finland makes a triumphant return with their highly anticipated second album, “Sea Of Death”

Get ready to be blown away as Wretched Path from Finland makes a triumphant return with their highly anticipated second album, “Sea Of Death”!

After the success of their debut album, “Heavy Lies The Crown”, the band took some time off to craft a masterpiece that’s faster, darker, and more intense than ever before. Now, just over two years later, they’re back and ready to unleash this beast upon the world!

Listen to the album on music services (Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, Deezer etc): https://push.fm/fl/wretchedpath-seaofdeath

Formed in 2020 by seasoned musicians from renowned bands like Pestigore, Born of Thorns, Tukkanuotta, and Warmen, Wretched Path was born out of a desire to return to their Death Metal roots. Their debut album received rave reviews from various magazines and websites, and they played several gigs around Finland including the legendary Nummirock festival 2023.
https://www.wretchedpath.com/

https://www.facebook.com/wretchedpath

https://www.instagram.com/wretchedpath/

https://wretchedpath.bandcamp.com/

Finnish modern melodic death metal band Echoes of the Extinct releases the third and final single before their debut album

Echoes of the Extinct from Jyväskylä, Finland, is set to release their debut album Era of Darkness on April 25, 2025. Now the band is unveiling its third and final single “Virus”, which, according to the band, had its guitar and drum parts written independently, unbeknownst to each other, yet surprisingly ended up working together perfectly. Initially nicknamed “generic metalcore song”, it later evolved into a progressive six-minute track with intricate metalcore riffs, striking tapping leads, brutally low-tuned breakdowns and strong melodies throughout. The structure of the final song is far from generic.

The lyrics explore human behavior within its own environment. Instead of living in harmony with nature, humanity behaves like a virus – destroying its surroundings and ultimately itself. Despite its immense power of destruction, humanity is not immune to extinction and will eventually dig its own mass grave. Yet, while nature and the environment will recover over time, this parasite will be gone. Time is running out. The final moments to save ourselves are at hand.

Listen to the single on music services (Spotify, YouTube, Bandcamp, Apple Music, Tidal etc.): https://push.fm/fl/eote-virus

IG: echoes_of_the_extinct

FB: https://www.facebook.com/eoteband

YT: @EchoesOfTheExtinct

Contact e-mail: echoesoftheextinct@gmail.com

Finnish Sargassus released a modern black metal single & music video ‘Spirit of Gravity’ – the track is taken from the upcoming debut album

Finnish progressive death metal band Sargassus is set to release their debut album ‘Vitruvian Rays’, out in June 2025 via Inverse Records. The first single ‘Spirit of Gravity’ is unleashed today.

WATCH Spirit of Gravity music video: https://youtu.be/IZ4S5DrNBgs

‘Spirit of Gravity’ is a relentless onslaught on the listener that introduces both
the fresh sound of the band as well as their new bass player Mertta Halonen.
Being perhaps Sargassus’ heaviest song to date, it features aggressive blast
beats and wailing tremolo riffs ornate with shrieks and guttural growls, much
like in some modern black metal songs.

The song was initially formed around the peculiar blast beat that starts the
song. Later the bunch worked all together on the song, refining it into what
you’ll now know as ‘Spirit of Gravity’. Once the song felt complete enough, it
was time to pen fitting lyrics. The chaotic nature of the song demanded the
listener’s attention, so it only made sense to write the lyrics from the point of
view of a rabidly preaching ritualist. With bass parts being composed last, they managed to highlight some groovier elements that can be found in Sargassus’ earlier works. The end result is something familiar, yet superlative.

Thematically ‘Spirit of Gravity’ centers around themes of rebirth, Nietzschean
philosophy and conformity. The lyrics are structured like an occult ritual of
renewal, where the participants ingest poisons to break free from a circular
existence, but in typical Sargassus fashion the ritual is likened to a wildly
inebriated communion. Structure and sincere practices are mirrored with
chaos and natural human perversion, masking philosophical ponderings about the eternal recurrence and life’s immanent worth.

The band comments:
” ‘Spirit of Gravity’ is no doubt Sargassus’ heaviest song to date. While the song might showcase clear modern black metal influences, it is not without groovier and eerily calming passages. The chaotic nature of the song may partly reflect the whims of the band itself, but this oppressing feeling is also a key theme on the rest of the upcoming album. ‘Spirit of Gravity’ tells the story of an ecstatic ritual in occult fashion, while reflecting on philosophical aspects of eternal recurrence and life’s immanent worth.”

LISTEN to Spirit of Gravity on streaming services: https://push.fm/fl/sargassus-spirit

Line-up:
Matias Rokio – Drums
Teemu Leskinen – Guitar
Matias Stenman – Vocals
Mertta Halonen – Bass

Links:
https://sargassus.com
https://www.facebook.com/sargassusband
https://www.instagram.com/sargassusband
https://sargassus.bandcamp.com
https://www.tiktok.com/@sargassusband

Thrash-Death Force ATROX TRAUMA Unleash ‘Demolish Them All’ – A 360° Lyric Video Experience

Hungarian thrash-death metal titans ATROX TRAUMA are back with a crushing new music video for “Demolish Them All”, taken from their highly anticipated second album, Where Death Hunts, set for release on April 18, 2025, via WormHoleDeath Records.

Slowly losing myself
Get lost in the maze of my mind
Thousand voices, thoughts much more
Demolish them all… and build again…
That’s enough! Leave ’em…”

The track’s immersive 360° video—filmed entirely uncut in a haunting forest—invites fans to plunge into a disorienting labyrinth of sound and vision, mirroring the song’s lyrical descent into psychological chaos.

With ‘Demolish Them All,’ ATROX TRAUMA invites you into their world of uncompromising speed, precision, and raw power. Will you step inside?

Founded in 2008, ATROX TRAUMA has been a relentless force in the underground metal scene, fusing thrash aggression with death metal brutality. After two early EPs and years of live devastation, the band’s momentum surged in 2019, leading to widespread touring. Their debut LP, On The Line Of Nothing And Something (2022, WormHoleDeath), showcased their crushing intensity, amplified by four official music videos. By the end of 2024, Atrox Trauma had stormed stages across multiple countries and completed their ferocious second album, Where Death Hunts.

linktr.ee/atroxtrauma
www.facebook.com/atroxtraumaband
www.instagram.com/atroxtrauma
www.youtube.com/channel/UCrKcJkba3rZAPjVPfw__RhA
soundcloud.com/atrox-trauma
atroxtrauma.bandcamp.com/releases
www.tiktok.com/@atroxtrauma

New Zealand groove metal band Alien Weaponry will release their album Te Rã on Friday

Alien Weaponry, a groove metal band that cherishes the traditions of New Zealand’s indigenous people, has convinced metal fans around the world with their distinctive music, where primitive rhythms seamlessly combine with modern production and different subgenres of metal.

Alien Weaponry will release their third full-length album, Te Rã, this Friday. The album highlights their message of cultural, social and environmental sustainability. In the hands of producer and mixer Josh Wilbur (Lamb Of God, Gojira, Megadeth), Te Rã’s blend of groove, nu, math and thrash metal has been honed into an exceptional and distinctive whole.

“Te Rā is a cry for a future where we can all participate in the heritage of the Maori people – a people whose voices absolutely need to be heard. The common thread running through the album is about being caught between different cultures – not just for the descendants of colonised people, but for everyone,” the band underlines.

Before the album’s release, the band will be releasing one more single. The final single, Taniwha, features Lamb Of God singer Randy Blythe.

“Lamb Of God played a significant role in shaping Alien Weaponry into what it is today, and this collaboration with Randy Blythe feels like one of those ‘pinch yourself’ moments that we never thought possible as teenagers. Randy’s lyrics and vocals were an amazing addition to this song, and we are so excited to share this song/milestone with the world,” the band says.

Te Rā album track list:
1. Crown
2. Mau Moko
3. 1000 Friends
4. Hanging by a Thread
5. Tama-nui-te-rā
6. Myself to Blame
7. Taniwha (feat. Randy Blythe)
8. Blackened Sky
9. Te Riri o Tāwhirimātea
10. Ponaturi
11. Te Kore

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TIKTOK | SPOTIFY

Toronto Prog DEREV’s Debut Album “Troubled Mind” Out Now+ Cross Canada Tour Dates (QC/ON/MB/SK/BC)

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).

Music Video – “Tides of Time” – https://youtu.be/rklJp_t3CdM​

Lyric Video – “Cyclone” – https://youtu.be/1il9zsnxl0U​

Animated Video – “Room 9” – https://youtu.be/ryl-vajc7-M​

​

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​