Category: Press Releases

DEVOLVER’s New Music Video “Wraiths” Captures The Camaraderie of Fans Under The Alberta Sky; New Album “Non Compos Mentis” Produced by Mark Lewis (Whitechapel, Trivium, DevilDriver, Black Dahlia Murder)

Canada’s own metal force, Devolver, has dropped a powerful new music video for “Wraiths,” a standout track from their latest album “Non Compos Mentis.” Filmed during an intimate album release show at Grain Bin Brewing, the video captures the raw energy and camaraderie of a night that brought 150 fans together under the Alberta sky, immortalizing a night of celebration, community, and crushing riffs.
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​“We knew we wanted to do something special. So we had our friend Mike Evans film the show. This music video is for all the people who were there celebrating with us, making it such a special night,” adds the band.
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​“Wraiths” is a groove-driven, straight-ahead metal track with thrash undertones and a nod to classic rock and metal. Lyrically, it explores themes of mysticism as a bridge to connect with lost loved ones, an emotional depth that complements its sonic punch.

Watch the video for “Wraiths” via its premiere on Decibel Magazine HERE.

Formed in 2015 by guitarist Devin Babcock and drummer/producer Bevin Booth, Devolver has grown from a side project into a full-fledged metal powerhouse. With the addition of Jayde Penner (guitar), Chris Brown (vocals), and Jaylen Elias (bass), the band’s sound has matured into a collaborative blend of Gothenburg-style melodic death metal and early 2000s metalcore.
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Their new album, produced by metal heavyweight Mark Lewis (Trivium, Whitechapel, The Black Dahlia Murder), marks a seismic shift in their sound.

“This is what the five of us sound like collaborating as a unit. Mark helped us push this thing over the edge,” adds the band.
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The album’s artwork, created by legendary artist Travis Smith (Opeth, Megadeth), is a chilling visual interpretation of the true story behind the title track. It depicts Devin Babcock’s ancestor, Amos Babcock, who in 1805 committed a gruesome murder in Shediac, New Brunswick, during a religious frenzy. The haunting image of Amos in the snow, surrounded by the eyes of his nine children, adds a historical and emotional weight to the album’s narrative.
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​Devolver’s connection to their hometown runs deep. They partnered with Grain Bin Brewing to create “Brews of the Maw,” a blackberry and blood orange pale ale named after their track “Jewels of the Maw.” And for fans of Magic: The Gathering, the band has hidden lyrical nods throughout the album, including a track titled “Deathtouch.”

Recommended for fans of In Flames, Dark Tranquillity, Killswitch Engage, and As I Lay Dying, “Non Compos Mentis” is a bold leap forward, each track a chapter in a larger emotional and sonic narrative.

“Non Compos Mentis” (released Aug 22nd) is available at the following links:

Bandcamp – https://devolvermusic.bandcamp.com/​

Spotify for Playlist Add – https://open.spotify.com/album/3eeLxBrxx55QvIm3EnahLm​

Music Video – Merciless Storm – https://youtu.be/o_6jcqK2qFQ​

Lyric Video – Suffocating Syndrome – https://youtu.be/mmRskxYe1q4​

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Track Listing:​
1. Deathtouch – 3:55
2. New Blood – 3:14
3. Jewels of the Maw – 3:30
4. Wraiths – 3:20
5. At Any Cost – 3:40
6. Non Compos Mentis – 3:53
7. Merciless Storm – 3:56
8. Suffocating Syndrome – 3:36
9. Dehumanize – 3:47
Album Length: 32:55

Album Credits:​
– All songs performed by: Devolver
– All songs written by: Devolver
– Produced, Mixed, Mastered by: Mark Lewis
– Album Artwork by: Travis Smith
– SOCAN members

Band Lineup:​
Chris Brown – Vocals
Devin Babcock – Guitar (lead)
Jayde Penner – Guitar (rhythm)
Bevin Booth – Drums
Jaylen Elias – Bass

More info: https://linktr.ee/devolverab​

Quebec’s HOPELESS NATION Ends Decade-Long Hiatus with Explosive New Video “Silverspoon”

After nearly a decade of silence, Trois-Rivières, QC’s Hopeless Nation roars back into the spotlight with their new single “Silverspoon,” a blistering fusion of hardcore grit and modern metal precision. The track marks the band’s official return and is accompanied by a surreal, AI-generated music video that can be viewed below.
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Formed in 1998, Hopeless Nation built its legacy on raw energy, socially charged lyrics, and sweat-soaked live shows. Their 2009 album “Built from Scratch” became a cornerstone of Quebec’s underground scene, backed by over 200 performances alongside acts like 100 Demons, Bane, Lofofora, and Despised Icon.
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In summer 2024, the band reunited for a high-energy show that reignited their creative fire. Revisiting unrecorded material from 2014, they began a new cycle, grinding back up from the roots while staying true to their hardcore and metal ethos. That journey culminates in “Silverspoon,” a track that hits hard from the first note and refuses to let go.
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​“Silverspoon” is immediate, layered, and aggressive, with clean vocal hooks that broaden its reach. Mixed and mastered by Francis Perron (Voïvod, Decayed Remains) at RadicArt, it’s built to dominate playlists and ignite live crowds. Lyrically, it critiques entitlement while celebrating earned effort, themes reflected in its cinematic music video.
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The video, created entirely with AI technology, fuses 1960s suburban nostalgia with cosmic adventure. A young boy carrying a silver spoon becomes a cult leader, confronting human space invaders and his own inner darkness, symbolized by a red snake. It’s a bold artistic leap that blends innovation with authentic musical expression.
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The single artwork mirrors this tension: a red serpent coiled around a silver spoon, rendered in a haunting, old painting style. It visually ties to the song’s themes and the surreal narrative of the video.
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​Hopeless Nation’s return is more than a comeback; it’s a tribute. The new planned singles to be released in the coming months honour past members Jonathan Houle (bass/guitar, 2012–2014, 2024) and Maxime Dupont (rhythm guitar, 1998–2014), whose talent and spirit helped define the band’s sound. Their legacy echoes through every riff and lyric.
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The band’s lineup remains deeply rooted in the Quebec scene, and Louis-Simon Bellerose leads punk hardcore legends Genetic Error. Steve DC and Guy Provencher represented Canada at Wacken Open Air 2023 with Strigampire, winners of the Wacken Metal Battle Canada.

Known for their no-backing-tracks, lamp-amp sound, and full crowd interaction, their live shows are legendary, often featuring headbanging, chair-throwing, and immersive visual projections that leave fans breathless.
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​“Silverspoon” is just the beginning. Four more singles, “Disaster,” “My Curse,” “1000 Miles,” and “Predators,” will follow, leading to a full EP. Each track bridges the band’s hardcore roots with modern metal sheen, offering pit-friendly intensity and emotional depth.
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For fans of Gojira, Darkest Hour, At the Gates, Lamb of God, and Zao, Hopeless Nation delivers a sound that’s explosive, raw, and relentlessly honest.
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Watch the “Silverspoon” video now on Hardcore Worldwide YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/lszWRwyk6Ik​

Add to your Spotify playlist at https://open.spotify.com/track/0XXWDbK2CcqkMpeOo80uIL​

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More info: https://www.instagram.com/hopelessnation_official | https://www.facebook.com/hopelessnation​

Hard rock supergroup Black Swan return with new album “Paralyzed” out February 13th

The all-star hard rock collective Black Swan – featuring Robin McAuley (McAuley Schenker Group), Reb Beach (Winger, Whitesnake), Jeff Pilson (Foreigner, The End Machine, ex-Dokken), and Matt Starr (Ace Frehley, Mr. Big) – are thrilled to announce the release of a new studio album, “Paralyzed”, set for release on February 13, 2026, via Frontiers Music Srl.

Black Swan unleash today another extract of the record, “If I Was King”, that follows the previously released single “The Fire And The Flame”.

Reb Beach described the new single: “If I Was King is one of my favorites because it has all the elements of a good Black Swan song. It’s powerful with great guitar riffs and soaring vocals, but that chorus has some different chords than usual. It really sticks in my head”.

Jeff Pilson added: “This song really shows where Black Swan shines at its best. Great melodies and lyrics, burning guitars and pounding rhythms. And wait till you see the video!!!”

“This track sets the tone for what’s to come with its dark and heavy opening chords, building intensity into a big melodic chorus that is quintessentially Black Swan!! Watch the video and let it pull you in!”, continued Robin McAuley.

“If I Was King” throws down the gauntlet and is what Black Swan is all about. Kick ass, high energy rock music with killer melodies, lyrics and musicianship. Robin is so talented at creating imagery with his lyrics based on the music that Jeff and Reb create, this is a great example of that”, said Matt Starr.

Watch the official video for “If I Was King” HERE

Pre-Order “Paralyzed” HERE

McAuley expressed his enthusiasm for the new record, by saying: “Can’t wait for you guys to hear our new record. We feel we’ve taken our songwriting to another level on this one, with amazing guitar riffs that once again show the brilliance that is Reb Beach. Pounding Bass as you’d expect from Jeff, and Matt Starr leaving no doubt about where the thunder comes from. Soaring melodies with strong lyrics are what we do best, combine that with sheer heaviness and we have a record we think you the fans are going to love”.

“Black Swan is old school eighties rock that is all about good guitar riffs with badass vocals. No one is better than Robin at singing this kind of music. I think the combination of my riffs and his vocals are what makes the band stand out”, Reb Beach said.

“I think the fans are going to love our new record. It builds on the first two records taking the songwriting, playing and energy to another level.  I’m so proud to be part of this great group of musicians and guys”, stated Matt Starr.

Jeff Pilson commented: “We’re all very excited for the release of Black Swan’s Paralyzed and can’t wait for all the fans to hear it. We wanted to come up with a real step forward in melodic heaviness, and I strongly believe we delivered. Enjoy!”

Black Swan are back with their explosive third album, “Paralyzed”. Following the critical acclaim of their previous releases, the supergroup once again delivers a powerful statement in modern hard rock.

With all songs written and composed by McAuley, Pilson, and Beach, and expertly produced by Pilson, “Paralyzed” showcases Black Swan at their peak performance – offering a dynamic mix of towering vocals, razor-sharp riffs, and hook-laden melodies. The band’s chemistry continues to shine, elevating their songwriting and musical delivery to new heights.

Tracked at Pilson’s Los Angeles studio, the album reflects the tight-knit synergy among its members. McAuley’s commanding vocals remain as ageless, while the instrumentalists deliver with precision and fire. Much like its predecessors, the new record is a testament to the individual and collective talents of these seasoned musicians.

“Paralyzed” is fresh, heavy, and melodically rich – a cohesive and compelling album that feels both classic and contemporary. Building upon the blueprint laid by their debut, “Shake The World”, the band expands their sonic universe.

The result is a record that not only meets but surpasses expectations, cementing Black Swan as a formidable force in the modern hard rock scene. Whether you’ve followed these legendary musicians since the heyday of ’80s rock or you’re just now discovering their magic, “Paralyzed” is essential listening – a masterclass in melodic hard rock delivered by artists who continue to defy time and expectations.

The genesis of Black Swan was sparked by a conversation between Jeff Pilson and Frontiers’ President & Head of A&R, Serafino Perugino, who wanted a project that would not only showcase McAuley’s vocal prowess, but have a mighty musical backbone to stand skyscraper tall behind him. Thus, the initial seeds were planted and Pilson ran with it from there.

Black Swan released their debut album, “Shake The World”, on February 14, 2020. A killer slice of melodic hard rock and heavy metal from seasoned players who have gelled musically. Their sophomore album, “Generation Mind”, followed in 2022, a powerful hard rock statement that consolidates the unique sound of the quartet and highlights the talent of each of them.

“Paralyzed” Tracklist:

1.    When The Cold Wind Blows
2.    Death Of Me
3.    Different Kind Of Woman
4.    If I Was King
5.    Shakedown
6.    The Fire And The Flame
7.    I’m Ready
8.    Paralyzed
9.    Carry On
10.    Battered And Bruised
11.    What The Future Holds

Line Up:
Robin McAuley – Lead Vocals
Reb Beach – Guitars
Jeff Pilson – Bass
Matt Starr – Drums

Follow BLACK SWAN:
Facebook

THE RETICENT’s New Concept Album “please” Plunges Deep Into The Battles of Mental Illness

Progressive metal trio The Reticent returns with its most emotionally raw and artistically ambitious release to date: “please”, a concept album that plunges deep into the lived experience of mental illness. Being released via Generation Prog Records on November 13th, 2025, the album’s full stream can be heard via its premiere on TheProgSpace, offering listeners a front-row seat to one of the most personal and soul-baring musical journeys of the year.

Listen to “please” in full via TheProgspace HERE.​
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Helmed by Grammy-nominated music educator Chris Hathcock, The Reticent has carved a distinct identity through emotionally charged, autobiographical concept albums that fuse progressive metal with raw, introspective storytelling. Their latest release, “please,” is Hathcock’s most personal and vulnerable work to date, a sonic outcry born from his own suffering and shaped into a plea for empathy, healing, and survival. The title itself, “please,” encapsulates a universal cry: for rest, for peace, for help, for escape. Far more than a catalog of pain, the album stands as a lifeline, crafted in the depths of anguish and offered to those who may be silently enduring the same.

Spanning ten deeply affecting tracks, “please” traverses the complex terrain of mental illness, with each song shedding light on a unique psychological struggle, from the disorientation of panic attacks and the torment of sleeplessness to the crushing weight of depression and the finality of suicidal ideation. Written while Hathcock was actively experiencing these states, every lyric and musical phrase resonates with lived truth, making “please” not just an album, but a testament to survival.
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Hidden throughout “please” are references to the work of clinical psychologist Kay Redfield Jamison, including nods to her books Night Falls Fast and An Unquiet Mind, and samples of her voice in “Discharge.”

The album was written in just six months. Drums were recorded in one day, all other instruments in two, but vocals took two weeks, leaving Hathcock with a vocal injury that required six weeks of silence. This is the first Reticent album, almost entirely engineered by Hathcock himself at Silent Muse Studio. Drums were tracked by Jamie King at The Basement Studios, who also mixed and mastered the album. All songs (except “The Bed of Wasps”) were recorded using 6-string guitars, the first time since 2016’s “On The Eve Of A Goodbye.”

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The album artwork visualizes depression as a riptide, a tireless current pulling you away from shore. It’s a metaphor that runs through the album, both sonically and lyrically.
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During the filming of the single “The Concealment” video, Hathcock broke two toes, sprained three others, and tore his rotator cuff. He performed at ProgStorm Festival in Montreal, QC, just six days later, in visible pain.
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​The Reticent’s live shows are more than concerts, they’re emotional exorcisms. Described by Metal Injection as “one of the most heart-wrenching performances in ProgPower history,” the band delivers immersive, soul-crushing sets that leave audiences transformed. The band is slated to appear at the 2026 editions of ProgPower USA in September and ProgPower Europe in October, marking another major milestone for the band’s growing international presence.
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Fans of Opeth, Cynic, The Contortionist, Wilderun, and Devin Townsend will find much to resonate with in “please,” which arrives November 13, 2025, via Generation Prog Records. A follow-up album is already underway, shaped by the profound loss of Chris Hathcock’s father during the creation of “please.”

CD pre-order (North America) – https://thereticent.net/please-pre-order​

CD pre-order (EU) – http://www.generation-prog.com/shop/​

Digital Album pre-save – https://show.co/MoPdl8W​

Music Video – “The Concealment (Those Who Don’t Want To Wake)” – https://youtu.be/1cIKQcJLKtc​

Lyric Video – “The Scorn (Those Who Don’t Understand)” – https://youtu.be/CR-6wCIpasI​

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Track Listing:​
1. Intake – 1:45
2. The Concealment (Those Who Don’t Want To Wake) – 6:06
3. The Night River (Those Who Can’t Rest) – 6:55
4. Diagnosis 1 – 2:18
5. The Bed of Wasps (Those Consumed With Panic) – 5:47
6. The Scorn (Those Who Don’t Understand) – 8:12
7. Diagnosis 2 – 2:39
8. The Riptide (Those Without Hope) – 6:09
9. The Chance (Those Who Let Go) – 6:52
10. Discharge – 2:56
Album Length: 49:45

Album Recording Credits:​
All instruments and vocals performed by Chris Hathcock except
– Lead Guitar and Additional Acoustic Guitar by James Nelson
– Guest Vocals on “The Bed of Wasps” by Brian Kingsland
– Narration by Vienna Gloom
All songs written by Chris Hathcock
Produced by Chris Hathcock
Engineered by Chris Hathcock
Drums engineered by Jamie King
Mixed and Mastered by Jamie King
Album Artwork by Joscelyne Hauserman

Band Line Up:​
Chris Hathcock – Vocals, Guitar
James Nelson – Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals
Paul McBride – Bass, Backing Vocals

For more info: Thereticent.net | Facebook.com/thereticentmusic | Instagram.com/The.reticent.band​

MOSH THE ROCK ISLAND METALFEST 2026 (Sooke, BC) Opens Band Submissions

Mosh the Rock Island MetalFest, proudly presented by Royalty Entertainment, is now accepting band submissions for its 2026 lineup! Applications are open until November 30th, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this epic event, taking place on August 9th at FRED MILNE PARK in Sooke, British Columbia, on Vancouver Island, Canada.
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This all-day, open-air festival is a celebration of metal and hard rock, welcoming fans of all ages to a family-friendly atmosphere filled with heavy riffs and high energy. Mosh the Rock extends heartfelt thanks to the local community for their incredible support and can’t wait to bring the noise back to Sooke in 2026!
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Bands from all subgenres of METAL are encouraged to apply. Send your EPK, including photos, music links, bios, and more—to MoshTheRock26[@]gmail[.]com.
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Following the overwhelming success of its inaugural year in 2025, Mosh the Rock 2026 is already shaping up to be even bigger and louder!
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Founded by Royal Savoie, event promoter, music manager, and host of THRASHCAN on 101.9 FM CFUV.CA in Victoria, BC, Mosh the Rock made its debut with a killer lineup featuring bands from across the British Columbia, including: Torrefy (Victoria), Thirteen Goats (Vancouver), Yegg (Nanaimo), Mutual Trauma (Victoria), Dead After Dark (Penticton), Burnt Lung (Vancouver), Pharm (Kelowna), Cybörg (Victoria), Joker’s Revenge (Nanaimo), Blacktop Social (Nanaimo), and Wolf Venom (Sooke).
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Get ready for Mosh the Rock 2026 is coming, and it’s going to be louder than ever.

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More info: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563939716534​

The Finnish thrash metal band Indemon released a music video for the track ‘Abuse’ from their debut album, ‘Reclaiming Chaos’

Finnish thrashers Indemon have released a music video for their song ‘Abuse’. The track is taken from their critically acclaimed debut album, Reclaiming Chaos, which was released last June via Inverse Records.

The band comments: 

“Abuse show’s the narrator’s perspective on the conflict in which they want to break free from a person, yet at the same time want to keep that person under their control. The narrator has an obsession with control.

Alternatively, it could be that the other person does not exist at all, and the narrator is actually a voice inside the listener’s head — a kind of inner demon — telling the listener how it wants to get rid of them, while simultaneously keeping them in its grasp.”

LISTEN to Reclaiming Chaos album: https://push.fm/fl/indemon-album

INDEMON is a four-piece metal band formed in 2020 in Kerava, Finland. Drawing influences from various subgenres of metal, they blend them uniquely to create a powerful and atmospheric sound. INDEMON’s debut EP Fear of Living was released in 2022, showcasing the band’s ability to create intense and multifaceted metal. The band’s lyrical themes explore fear, self-doubt, and inner struggles, immersing the listener into the music’s emotional world. INDEMON is known for their energetic live performances and distinctive music. Their debut album Reclaiming Chaos was released in June 2025 via Inverse Records. 

Canadian Thrashers TRISKELYON Unveil New Video “Of Dust and Divination” ft. Liv Jagrell (LIV SIN) From 4th Studio Album “Maelstrom of Chaos” Out In November

TRISKELYON, the fiercely prolific melodic thrash metal project masterminded by Canadian guitarist and songwriter Geoff Waye (of Artach and Category VI), has announced the upcoming release of their fourth full-length album, “Maelstrom of Chaos”, due out on November 28, 2025, via Moribund Records.

Known for blending the savage speed of 80s thrash with complex, modern melodicism, the project today celebrates the release of the new lyric video for the track “Of Dust and Divination,” which features guest vocals by the commanding Liv Jagrell (LIV SIN).

Geoff Waye (Guitars/Songwriter) on the new single:

“For me, the album’s opening track, ‘Of Dust and Divination,’ provides a perfect representation of what this new album is all about. It’s got a little bit of everything I love in metal: thrash intensity, some black metal savagery in the blast beats, a taste of speed and power metal, and even unexpected progressive twists. This diversity, both musically and vocally, with raw death/black growls and clean singing, makes a great statement. Lyrically, the track explores themes of decay and damnation, evoking images of civilizations crumbling due to refusing to evolve their thinking.

Having the incredible Liv Jagrell (Liv Sin) join me on vocals was an absolute honor. Her power and presence added a brilliant layer to the track, and it was a seamless collaboration. I only requested she include both clean and extreme vocals, and she delivered perfectly, proving she is a true professional.”

Watch the lyric video for “Of Dust and Divination” at https://youtu.be/x_Qf8t2XmUk​

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/0zJXK0mE2N2pYYEL0ADpJ2​

Formed in 2021 by guitarist Geoff Waye of the acclaimed True Metal band Category VI, Triskelyon came roaring out of the gate with their self-titled EP and landed a deal with Moribund Records for their chart-crushing debut, “Downfall” (2022). They followed with the bone-splitting “Artificial Insanity” (2023), dominating radio for six weeks, followed by the apocalyptic “Shattered Elysium” (2024). Each release bigger, faster, heavier… and now comes the ultimate Thrash onslaught “Maelstrom of Chaos”.

For “Maelstrom of Chaos,” mastermind Geoff Waye once again summons an all-star cast of metal warriors from the Canadian scene and from the global scene. Enlisting the vocal talents of guests Liv Jagrell (Liv Sin), Amanda Jackman (Category VI), James Delbridge (Lycanthro), Carolina Padrón (Tribus, Bloodrain), Dale Drew (Sea Dogs), and Pete Healey (Marshall Law, Ex Oberon), this album reigns as a true Thrash Metal masterpiece. On drums, the thunder is split between Raul Marques (Burning Torment) and Nicole Trinchero (Chaos Rising, Acroma), while bass devastation comes courtesy of Dwayne Pike (Afterforever), Rick White (Within the Realm, Exorcist), and Darrin Pope.

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In true Triskelyon fashion, expect more than Thrash – this is a molten fusion of Thrash, Speed, Power, Death-Thrash, and Traditional Metal. Wild and impressive, explosive riffs, razor-sharp solos, and skull-crushing rhythms resurrect the glory of the ‘80s while forging it into something bigger, louder, and deadlier for today.

In keeping with Triskelyon‘s tradition of closing their albums with an iconic cover, this release delivers the heaviest Metal rendition of Peter Schilling’s mega-hit “Major Tom” that the world will ever hear!

“Maelstrom of Chaos” is not just an album – it’s a Thrash Metal supernova. Brace yourself.

CD pre-order (out Nov 28th) – https://www.moribundcult.com/product/DEAD336.html​

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/artist/5eHXL3FTFpLVOJTIcViEIW​

Single – Blood Drowned Prophecy (ft. guest vocals Liv Jagrell from Liv Sin) – https://youtu.be/FikcpI8IGBE​

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Track Listing:​
1. Of Dust and Divination (4:49)
2. The Winter Tsar (4:02)
3. Maelstrom of Chaos (4:24)
4. Unit 684 (4:21)
5. Blood Drowned Prophecy (4:10)
6. Death Racer (4:24)
7. Blame Game (4:27)
8. Divide and Dissent (3:53)
9. Cretin (5:08)
10. Major Tom (cover) (5:22)

Follow TRISKELYON:
​Facebook | B​andcamp​

F:F:F – Formosa : Finland : Fest. brings Taiwan’s top metal acts — CHTHONIC, Flesh Juicer, and Crescent Lament — to Helsinki

The F:F:F – Formosa : Finland : Fest., organized by Taiwan’s cultural association GACC, is approaching fast! The event will take place on November 27 at Tiivistämö, Helsinki, featuring Finland’s own Lost Society and Korpiklaani, alongside three of Taiwan’s leading metal names — CHTHONIC, Flesh Juicer, and Crescent Lament, who recently released a new EP built around their single The Folded Memory.

Formed in 2007, Crescent Lament blends folk metal with elements of local Taiwanese cultural heritage. Their songs sensitively portray the struggles and sorrows of ordinary Taiwanese people. Having released three albums and performed at Taiwan’s major festivals, Crescent Lament has also collaborated with CHTHONIC’s Jesse Liu — who produced their latest album Land of Lost Voices (2020), mastered at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki.

Also performing is the Golden Melody Award–winning Flesh Juicer, known for masterfully fusing Taiwanese traditional culture, social conventions, and temple parades. The band has earned multiple Golden Music Awards and was nominated at the U.S. Independent Music Awards for their third album GOLDEN Taizi Bro. Flesh Juicer’s work has even appeared in the gaming world — Blizzard Entertainment invited them to compose Blessed Mother for Diablo IV.

Meanwhile, CHTHONIC is regarded as one of Taiwan’s most iconic heavy metal bands. Celebrating their 30th anniversary this year, CHTHONIC’s sound fuses folk music with enka-style phrasing, pentatonic scales, and even operatic melodies. Alongside traditional metal instruments, their performances feature the erhu (a violin-like string instrument), zheng (a Chinese zither), and a traditional hunter’s flute. With an international career spanning over two decades, CHTHONIC has appeared on stages from Ozzfest to Wacken and Download Festival, and are well known in global metal media. Their 2023 single Pattonkan was selected by the Recording Academy (GRAMMYs) for the Global Spin series, and their 2025 release Endless Aeons was named by UK critics as one of the year’s most significant metal tracks.

Tickets for F:F:F — Formosa : Finland : Fest. sold out quickly, but a limited number remain available through competitions hosted by media partners Kaaoszine and Radio Rock.

“Rising from Peaks. Roaring across Lakes. United on One Stage.”

F:F:F — Formosa : Finland : Fest.
November 27, 2025, 6 PM
Tiivistämö, Helsinki
Line-up:
KORPIKLAANI (FI)
CHTHONIC (TW) feat. OLLI VÄNSKÄ (FI)
LOST SOCIETY (FI)
FLESH JUICER (TW)
CRESCENT LAMENT (TW)
SONIA CALICO (TW)

Age limit: 18+

INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE

Aussie Heavy/Thrash Metal Machine DECIMATOR Are Back With New EP Downfallen

Australian heavy/thrash metal force DECIMATOR return with their new EP Downfallen, out soon via Wormholedeath. The release marks a fierce new chapter for the Sydney-based band, channeling their trademark blend of old-school aggression and sharp modern intensity.

Inspired by Robespierre’s Reign of Terror and the chaos following the fall of the French monarchy, Downfallen captures the brutality, paranoia, and political collapse of revolution through a storm of riff-driven fury and relentless rhythm.

Formed in early 2021, Decimator has undergone a few lineup changes, seeing the band go from strength to strength.
In late 2024, Riley Perry joined the band on bass, bringing a new and even more refined approach to songwriting, having been active in projects such as “Of Flesh” and formerly being part of the thrash metal band Paralysis. Unfortunately, 2025 also saw more changes – but Caiseal Duncan replacing Ethan Reeves on guitar and Ashley Pollard replacing Bon Lowe on drums brought even more fire and ferocity
to the band.
Lance Holland-Keen, now the only original member, leads them on, with this single a small taste of the EP due out later this year.
The band are already writing new material for 2026 and playing shows in Sydney – decimating every stage they step onto.

Decimator Line-Up:

Lance – vox/guitars
Riley Perry – bass/backing vox
Caiseal Duncan – guitars
Bon Lowe – drums on the EP
Ash Pollard is the new drummer for live shows.

 

www.facebook.com/DecimatorBandAustralia
www.instagram.com/decimatorbandaustralia
decimator1.bandcamp.com/music
www.youtube.com/@decimatorbandaustralia568

Stream ’Til The Enemies Are Gone: https://orcd.co/tteag
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The first performers for next year’s Hellsinki Metal Festival have been revealed

The already-established phenomenon, the Hellsinki Metal Festival, is now back for its fourth time! The heavy music festival, held at the Helsinki Ice Hall, or more familiarly known as Nordis, on August 7–8, has impressed the metal crowd with its lineup of performers every year. Last year, the festival attracted 16,000 visitors and has brought to Finland both international stars and rarer performers who are not often seen in Finland.

As the darkness of winter takes over, it is a good time to take a look at the lineup for next summer’s Hellsinki Metal Festival. Check out the first artist announcements below:

OPETH
ACCEPT
BLACK LABEL SOCIETY
CARPENTER BRUT
TRIPTYKON performing Celtic Frost
MISTHYRMING & NERGAL perform BEHEMOTH
THE KOVENANT
BLOODBATH
BLACKBRAID
HORNA
IKINÄ & The Choir Of Hecate
ILL NIÑO
IOTUNN
BRYMIR
WORMWOOD 

More announcements are expected in the future. However, it is worth getting your tickets now. Tickets are sold by Ticketmaster, Tiketti and Lippu.fi

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