In the small city of Hutt Valley, near Wellington, New Zealand, a unique progressive metal band named Clæmus was born. “There’s not a hell of a lot of music or bands like ours coming out of Wellington or New Zealand in general, especially at the time we formed the band,” they reflect. It was the lack of a local scene for their specific style that drew the band members together, forming the creative force that is Clæmus today. From the outset, Clæmus embraced a DIY approach, independently recording, producing, and releasing a variety of singles, a full-length album, and their recent EP, Me ..read more

Past and Secrets, a progressive metal project hailing from Lille, France, returns with their latest instrumental EP, “Another Day, Another Time.” This 22-minute opus is a sonic voyage that blends energy and ambiance, joy and melancholy, rage and tranquility across five compelling tracks. The project, known for its intricate compositions and emotive storytelling, delivers yet another captivating journey that resonates deeply with the themes of life, death, and the inexorable passage of time. Each track is a testament to the artist’s ability to weave a rich tapestry of sound, marked by pounding ..read more

“The Last Scattering Surface” marks the third full-length release from Look To Windward, a progressive/alternative rock project helmed by Andrew McCully. The album, released on May 31, 2024, represents a milestone in the project’s evolution, featuring a first-ever 5.1 surround mix and a full-length animated visual album. Look To Windward, originally a collaboration between McCully and Benjamin Morley in Auckland, New Zealand, has grown into an expansive and dynamic musical endeavor. This album continues the tradition of intricate compositions, diverse instrumentation, and rich, layered vocals ..read more

In this exclusive interview, we delve into the world of Past and Secrets, a groundbreaking musical project that emerged in 2019 from the ashes of a disbanded group. The mastermind behind this endeavor, Yohan Delasalle, shares insights into the project’s inception, the creative journey that led to the acclaimed debut album Memories, and the distinctive fusion of atmospheric, ambient, and djent elements that define their sound. As we explore the inspirations, challenges, and future aspirations of this one-man band, we gain a deeper understanding of how personal experiences and a diverse range of ..read more

Every Hour Kills, the Calgary, Alberta-based progressive metal/djent trio, has released their latest single “Acheron,” showcasing the blend of technical proficiency and dynamism. The rotating collective ensemble features the core talents of ex-Divinity/Enditol guitarist and producer Sacha Laskow, guitarist Taylor Gee, bassist Brent Stutsky (ex-Breach of Trust), and vocalist Jei Doublerice (Despite Exile, Abiogenesis). With “Acheron,” the band delivers a powerful, immersive experience. Instrumental Mastery and Production From the very first note, “Acheron” makes a strong impression with its int ..read more

Vienna-based alternative/progressive rock band Elephant Planet has proven their ability to innovate and captivate with their full-length debut album, “”. Blending elements of jazz, pop, and modern rock, the band’s unique sound is both a nod to their eclectic influences and a bold statement of their originality. This album, consisting of eight tracks, showcases their knack for creating music that is subtly complex yet effortlessly memorable. 1. Introduction (01:30) The album opens with “Introduction,” a brief yet impactful prelude that sets the tone for what’s to come. With its atmospheric soun ..read more

The self-titled debut album by the Dresden-based band LYR is a compelling exploration of post-rock and alternative soundscapes, seamlessly blending atmospheric depth with intricate musical craftsmanship. Formed in 2018, LYR has established themselves as a unit that prioritizes collective creativity and collaborative composition, which is evident throughout this record. The album opens with “Prologue,” an immersive introduction that sets the tone with ethereal synths and a building tension, inviting listeners into LYR’s expansive sonic world. This transitions smoothly into “Stay,” adding a haun ..read more

Scouter, an instrumental music project, is set to captivate audiences with its unique blend of metalcore intensity and progressive instrumentalism. In this interview, we delve into the origins of Scouter and its evolution from a Dragonball Z homage into a multifaceted musical endeavor. Adam shares insights into the creative process behind the latest EP, “Splash Damage,” drawing inspiration from video games and crafting a cohesive musical journey. As the sole architect behind Scouter, Adam discusses the challenges of bringing a musical vision to life and the profound impact he hopes his music h ..read more

Since its inception in 2009, Look To Windward has been a project driven by a shared passion for complex heavy music and a commitment to creative exploration. Founded by Andrew McCully and Benjamin Morley, the project evolved from a studio recording endeavor to a collaborative effort involving multiple musicians and singers. In this insightful interview, Andrew shares the story behind Look To Windward‘s evolution, from the creation of their debut album “Fortunes Haze” to the upcoming release of “The Last Scattering Surface.” He discusses the challenges of balancing intricate compositions with a ..read more

Inhalo‘s debut album “Sever” is an enchanting journey through the sphere of Dutch progressive rock. Released in 2022 under Construction Records, this 43-minute album showcases the talents of Fons Herder (vocals), Roy Willems (guitars), Peter Cats (bass guitar), and Pepijn Gros (drums), all seasoned musicians with notable backgrounds in bands like A Liquid Landscape, Ivy’s Dream, and The Heaven’s Devils. Drawing comparisons to the likes of Riverside and Opeth, Inhalo crafts a sonic landscape characterized by alternative prog rock textures, heavy guitars, and brooding atmospheres. Each track unf ..read more