Sludge Metallers IVY GARDENS' Release New Video "Burden" From New Sophomore Album "Death of Don Valley" Out August 2025

LR - Andrew Blackborow (Guitar, Vocals), Joe Zandwyk (Drums, Vocals), Sebastian Hogg (Keyboards)

Photo Credit by Luka Kartveli

Ivy Gardens, the experimental sludge metal band from Niagara Falls, Canada, has announced the release of their highly anticipated new music video for the single "Burden" and their sophomore album, "Death of Don Valley", set to drop on August 29th, 2025, via Paper Cut Recordings. The record marks a bold new chapter in the band’s sound, with more complex compositions, darker themes, and a shift into a more experimental and atmospheric direction.

Formed in the parking lot of Princess Auto, Ivy Gardens’ journey began with a mutual love for covering Rush instrumentals and an obsession with heavy, sludge-infused sound. From those humble beginnings, the band’s unique chemistry and vision have led to the creation of their most ambitious and thematically focused album yet.
​
​"Burden", the first single from "Death of Don Valley", showcases a satirical take on nihilism, with dark and comical undertones. The track was one of the first songs written for the album and features a fast-paced, relentless tempo that gradually picks up speed in the studio. Lyrically, it's a satirical take on the archetypal nihilist, with a dose of doom and gloom that veers into a comical extreme. The band describes it as “quick and succinct” — a track that encapsulates the essence of their new sonic direction.

Watch and listen to the music video for "Burden" below:

Spotify - https://bit.ly/3FWpqwD​

"Death of Don Valley" is a concept album, exploring the themes of death, decay, and the unstoppable erosion of life and the environment. The concept is rooted in the history of the Don Valley River, a once-thriving waterway now plagued by pollution and degradation. The album's artwork reflects this with the haunting image of a corpse between the banks of the flooded river, anthropomorphizing the water itself as it becomes a symbol of death and decay.

The material on "Death of Don Valley" was designed to be heard live, with massive stacks of amplifiers and a commitment to delivering the music in all its raw, unfiltered glory. It marks a bold new direction for Ivy Gardens; the band has no plans of slowing down. Their dedication to the project is evident in every note they play and every lyric they write as they continue to push musical boundaries and explore new sonic territories. Lyrically, the record draws from a mix of historical events, such as the tragic story of Canadian bush pilot Martin Hartwell, and fictional narratives, creating a dark and gripping atmosphere. The songs explore everything from violence, death, and survival to environmental destruction and existential dread. As the band explains:

"Death of Don Valley is the natural progression of their sound, with more complexity and a deliberate thematic structure. Musically, it marks a shift in Ivy Gardens’ approach. This album is darker, more experimental, and more intricate than our previous work on 2024's Goon. While Goon carried a more positive, energetic vibe, this LP is more about confronting the darker aspects of life, and it reflects a deeper exploration into musical and thematic complexity."

Ivy Gardens' influences are vast, ranging from progressive icons like Rush, Yes, and King Crimson to sludge pioneers like EYEHATEGOD and Iron Monkey. Their sound blends elements of stoner metal, sludge, math rock, and progressive rock, creating an unpredictable listening experience that takes the listener through a series of emotional and sonic landscapes.

Fans of Ivy Gardens can expect an intense live performance soon, as the band does plan to tour in support of the new album this coming September. Stay tuned for dates to be announced, and Ivy Gardens are bringing their thunderous sound to stages nationwide. Expect a live show that will test the limits of your ears and your emotions.

"Death of Don Valley" (out August 29th) is available for pre-order at https://ivygardens.bandcamp.com/​

Ivy Gardens - Live or Die Tour:

​Aug 29 - St. Catharines, ON - Warehouse Concert Hall
Aug 30 - Toronto, ON - Monarch Tavern
Sept 5 - Kitchener, ON - The Golden Apple
Sept 11 - London, ON - TBA
Sept 12 - Windsor, ON - Phog Lounge
Sept 13 - Sarnia, ON - AJs Bar
Sept 18 - Halifax, NS - Radstorm
Sept 19 - Sydney, NS - Daniels Ale House
Sept 20 - Charlottetown, PEI - Babas Lounge
Sept 21 - Moncton, NB - TBA
Sept 25 - Woodstock, NB - Montieth Manor
Sept 26 - Quebec City, QC - Scanner Bistro
Sept 27 - Montreal, QC - Blue Dog
Oct 9 - Barrie, ON - CW Coops
Oct 10 - Sudbury, ON - Townhouse Tavern
Oct 11 - Thunder Bay, ON - Nortenos Cantina
Oct 12 - Winnipeg, MB - Bulldog Event Center
Oct 16 - Regina, SK - The Cure Kitchen and Bar
Oct 17 - Saskatoon, SK - The Black Cat
Oct 18 - Calgary, AB - Palomino
Oct 19 - Edmonton, AB - Blak Bar
Oct 23 - Kelowna, BC - TBA
Oct 24 - Vancouver, BC - TBA
Oct 25 - Victoria, BC - TBA

Track Listing:​

1. Burn For Murder - 2:02
2. Eye Witness - 2:50
3. Burden - 3:08
4. Guiding Hand - 6:18
5. Frozen Limbs - 5:15
6. Gearth - 2:29
7. Astray - 4:56
8. Bliss - 8:59
9. Golden - 7:07

Album Length: 43:08

Album Credits:​

All songs written and performed by Ivy Gardens
Produced by Ivy Gardens
Recorded and mixed by Frank Ditillio
Mastered by Cameron Lee
Album Artwork by Ivy Gardens
Death of Don Valley is Canadian Content (MAPL)

Recording and Live Lineup:​
Joe Zandwyk: Drums, Vocals, Samples
Sebastian Hogg: Organ, Piano, Synth, Samples
Andrew Blackborow: Guitar, Vocals

More info: Facebook.com/ivygardensband | Instagram.com/ivygardensofficial

Thanks to Asher Media PR for all of the details.

WoodHawk - Love Finds A Way (Album Review)

Release Date: June 06th 2025. Record Label: Grand Hand Records. Formats: DD/Vinyl

Love Finds A Way - Tracklisting

1.Grave Shaker

2.Strangers Ever After 04:24

3.Truth Be Told

4.White Crosses

5.The Unholy Hand

6.No Place For Hate

7.Love Finds a Way

8.Relapser

9.Killing Time

Members

Kevin Nelson (Drums)

Turner Midzain (Vocals/ Guitar)

Mike Badmington (Bass/ Vocals)

Review

One of Canada’s best Stoner Rock bands WoodHawk make a welcome return with Love Finds A Way where the band play a more amplified style of Heavy Rock music with focus primarily on melody and aggression. Taking up the LOUD RAWK mantle of bands such as THIN LIZZY, THE SWORD, BLACK SABBATH and LED ZEPP. WoodHawk bring a soulful and highly energetic style of Classic Blues Rock into the mix.

The record relies heavily on old-school 1970’s Blues Rock and Hard Rock dynamics when bringing a catchier and aggressive style of Stoner Rock/Metal which allows WoodHawk to put fresh spin on the classic THIN LIZZY blazing solos. The vocals from Turner Midzain and Mike Badmington compliment each other superbly well with the music being quite DOOMED OUT and HEAVY METAL focused within the first opening exchanges of the album on tracks such as: Grave Shaker, Strangers Ever After and Truth Be Told.

WoodHawk allow themselves to play a few subtle Classic Hard Rock passages where the aggressive Stoner Rock/Metal energy is swapped for a good old fashioned Blues Rock sound. However, for the most part, Love Finds A Way is all about the mighty “GROOVE” and dominates the musical landscape with frenzied guitars and an intense rhythm section from Mike on Bass and Kevin Nelson on Drums. 

Love Finds A Way maybe a bit too long in some places but WoodHawk ultimately rules on the album and releases their most impressive album to date. The lyrics have a certain Classic Rock vibe to them which is given a modern Stoner Rock makeover when the distorted passages thrusts the whole album into Doom Rock/Metal territory especially on the following tracks:  White Crosses, The Unholy Kind, Relapser and Killing Time.

The surroundings of Proto-Metal and Blues Rock adds an eerie touch with WoodHawk unashamedly creating a superb RETRO atmosphere which ultimately becomes thoroughly modern when a Sludge Rock element appears out of nowhere. Throw in a fine amount of NWOBHM energy on the heavier parts of the record and WoodHawk are on absolute FIRE with their intense sound being delivered with an ice-cold technical proficiency.

Love Finds A Way sees WoodHawk deliver their most mature creative and mature effort to date with the band moving away from the FANTASTICAL setting of their earlier albums and settle upon a more warm-hearted and emotionally charged record. 

WoodHawk impresses on every level with Love Finds A Way which allows this record to be their best album yet which you will be listening to for a very long time to come. Add this record to your collection and if you’re a fan of Old School Heavy Rock then this is the place to be.

Outstanding. End Of.

Words by Steve Howe

Thanks to Asher Media PR for the promo.

Love Finds A Way is available to buy now on DD/Vinyl via Grand Hand Records

Links

​

https://www.woodhawkriffs.com​
​https://www.instagram.com/woodhawkriffs​
​https://www.facebook.com/woodhawkriffs

​

An Interview With Turner Midzain From Psych Stoner Rockers WOODHAWK

Psychedelic Stoner Rockers WOODHAWK return from a six year slumber with their upcoming and absolutely stunning new album Love Finds A Way. With swirling Psychedelic melodies married with Grunge, Doom and heavy groovy soundscapes, this sees the band in inspired form.

I loved their previous two albums - Beyond The Sun (2017) and Violent Nature (2019), though the band have really found their definite sound on Love Finds A Way.

I caught up with Turner Midzain (Guitars/Vocals) from WOODHAWK to discuss the making of the album and the history of the band. 

Read on for a great interview

Hi Turner. Thanks for doing this interview. How are things with you today?

Doing great! The weather here in Calgary is picking up, so it’s been a great spring here. Thanks for chatting.

For folks not in the know can you give a brief history of how the band came together and where it is today?

We’ve been around for just over 10 years now. Mike and I started jamming some ‘stoner rock’ type songs after the end of one of our punk bands. We just liked the heavier direction. We had a few drummers start out with us that were friends to get us up and going. But at the first few shows we played, we met Kevin, and he joined shortly after. We’re still here, through the pandemic and all. Still best friends ripping tunes.

How did you describe your own sound?

I like to think of us as a rock band. That’s quite an open term these days, but we have kind of drifted between stoner rock, metal, and hard rock for a while. We’re not slow enough to be stoner, fast enough to be metal. So.. rock.

Congrats on your upcoming excellent new album Love Finds A Way. Great album and a very psychedelic experience. What can people expect to hear from this album?

Thanks so much! We’re really proud of this album. We took a long time to craft it and really do what we wanted. More demoing and bouncing of ideas back and forth than in our previous records. I think this record is the most ‘Woodhawk’ sounding record. To us, it feels mature and like we have captured who we are now, and exactly what we wanted. It’s got riffs, but also honesty and triumph. It was a therapeutic experience for us.

This is a quite different record compared to your previous albums. Was that your plan to create something different to your previous albums?

We never really set out with a sound or direction for any songs or albums. Just what comes together naturally. With this one, we really wanted it to be a journey. It’s been a long time since we put out music, and it was really important for this one to capture all that time and what we felt like we went through in this period. We never want to make the same thing over and over again.

Where did the name for the album come from and what does this mean to the band?

When we started, none of us were stoners. So we were huge craft beer fans. Mike and I loved Wychwood out of the U.K. We toyed with the idea of calling the band Witchwood or something like that. But ultimately just fell on Woodhawk and loved it. So, instead of being stoner-related, it’s beer-related, haha. But most of us don’t really drink these days anymore.

What bands and albums influenced you when recording this album?

I don’t know if there were any specific bands that we were stuck on. But I think we always listen to our friend's bands and classic rock that we love. So just a big collection of what we listen to. We listen to a lot more music outside of the stoner rock genre.

What formats is the album being released on and which record label is releasing the album.

The album will come out on vinyl and digital. We’ll probably do CDs down the line, but there wasn’t much interest in it this go around. The record is coming out on Grand Hand records. It’s a small label here in Canada that has some of our pals like Gone Cosmic, Black Mastiff, and Chron Goblin on it. So we’re stoked to be working with buds.

Have you had any offers from the well known underground record labels to release your music.

Ya we had a couple. We had few on the first album, Beyond The Sun, but didn’t want to give up anything yet. Then, with each record, we have shopped it to labels to see who is interested. With Violent Nature, we again opted to do it ourselves because what we were being offered, we felt like we were giving up too much. Same with this album. But Grand Hand is so DIY as it’s all run by our friends and bands, it was a no-brainer.

What is the creative process or setup within the band? Do you write the music together or do certain people within the band do that?

I always bring a skeleton or an idea to the band. We all seem to like a bit of structure to get us going. Develop a bit of a groove and idea, and then change it from there for what’s working and what isn’t. This time was a bit different as Mike lives a few hours from Kevin and I, so we did a lot more demoing where Kevin and I would make a structure it, record it, then send it to Mike. He could then add his bass and ideas and send it back. So it was different for us to create songs a bit more separately but then come together, already knowing it all, and being able to have a different perspective on it. I think this back and forth led us to think about the songs more and make sure everything made sense and was supposed to be there.

How did you get involved with music? Was it a particular group or artist that made you want to write and play your own music?

I started playing guitar was I was 12. Mike taught me how to play! He had only been playing a year or 2 earlier. From there, we actually made most of our bands together. Starting at age 14 and onwards. We just loved classic rock and thought playing electric guitar was so cool. And here we still are!

Who designed the excellent album cover. Really brings to light what the whole album is about.

Thanks! That would be Mark Kowalchuk. He is our go-to main guy and has been since the first album. He just gets our visions and really gels with us. We have a hard time imagining anyone else doing the artwork for our albums. He has done work for Metallica, In Flames, and some amazing snowboard companies.

Can you advise if you played or currently playing in other bands so folks can check your other musical projects.

Mike and I are 1 trick ponies. Woodhawk is all we do. Kevin plays in another band called GEOFF occasionally. A bit of noise rock side-project here in Calgary.

What is the current state of the Calgary, Alberta, Rock/Metal scene? Do you perform gigs on a regular basis and do you have a local scene that you are actively involved with?

The scene is good here. But as we get older, there is an amazing new generation of musicians coming up and playing gigs. I’m less in touch with the scene than I was when we started out. It’s great to see that the kids still want to play music. We try to play in Calgary only 1-2 times a year. Treat it like a touring city where we can do bigger, better shows and make it more special. Don’t overplay your own city.

Will you be performing any gigs to promote this album locally or further afield?

We’ll be playing 2 album release shows here in Alberta. We’ll do the first one in Edmonton on June 13th and then in Calgary on June 14th. Later in the year, we will be touring Canada extensively. We have a full tour booked for late summer/early fall. We’ll be getting back into the van and cruising the trans Canada highway!

Before you go, do you have any words of wisdom for your new and potential fans out there.

Be nice to each other. There’s enough hate and anger in the world already. Just be nice. Tell your loved ones you love them.

Words by Steve Howe and Turner Midzain

Thanks to Turner for doing the interview and Asher Media PR for arranging the interview.

Love Finds A Way will be released on Digital/Vinyl formats via Grand Hard Records from Friday June 06th 2025. Album pre-order: https://woodhawk.bandcamp.com

More info:​
​

https://www.woodhawkriffs.com​
​https://www.instagram.com/woodhawkriffs​
​https://www.facebook.com/woodhawkriffs

​

Canada's Psych Stoner Rockers WOODHAWK Reveals First Single “Strangers Ever After” From New Album “Love Finds A Way”

L to R: Kevin Nelson (Drums), Turner Midzain (Vocals/ Guitar), Mike Badmington (Bass/ Vocals)

Portrait by Mark Kowalchuk

Canadian stoner rock powerhouse Woodhawk returns with the announcement of their highly anticipated third studio album, “Love Finds A Way,” set for release on June 6, 2025, via Grand Hand Records. The Calgary trio of Turner Midzain (guitar/vocals), Mike Badmington (bass), and Kevin Nelson (drums) are also dropping the record's first single, “Strangers Ever After,” toda,y giving fans their first taste of new Woodhawk material since 2019's acclaimed “Violent Nature”. The band comments on the new single:

“This was the first song we wrote for this album. And I think we reworked it more than any song. It started out with a completely different feel and timing than what we ended up with. It was way darker. But we kept coming back to it and really loved the result. Strangers Ever After is a kind of demise of a relationship. The farewell to someone that maybe…you were better off never knowing. This is dark and honest.”

“Love Finds A Way” marks an evolution in the band's creative journey. Their earlier work was very much influenced by bands like The Sword and Black Sabbath, with lyrics about wizards and goblins, but they've worked hard on bringing more emotion to their writing. The nine-track album promises to deliver the dynamic range fans have come to expect from Woodhawk, featuring what Midzain describes as ‘some really riff-rocking songs, but also a lot of hardship and honesty'.

“Strangers Ever After” showcases the band's signature blend of classic hard rock sensibilities and modern stoner metal influences, delivering the infectious grooves and memorable hooks that have earned Woodhawk a devoted following since their formation in 2014. They are recommended for fans of The Sword, Red Fang, and Thin Lizzy.

Listen to “Strangers Ever After”:

YouTube - https://youtu.be/zCYCia-rPFo​

Spotify - https://spoti.fi/4jmbEkW​

Album pre-order: https://woodhawk.bandcamp.com

Track Listing

1. Grave Shaker – 4:41
2. Strangers Ever After – 4:24
3. Truth Be Told – 7:21
4. White Crosses – 6:10
5. The Unholy Hand – 5:21
6. No Place For Hate – 5:18
7. Love Finds a Way – 6:16
8. Relapser – 4:52
9. Killing Time – 8:37

Woodhawk is:

Turner Midzain – Guitar & Vocals
Mike Badmington – Bass & Vocals
Kevin Nelson - Drums

More info:​
​

https://www.woodhawkriffs.com​
​https://www.instagram.com/woodhawkriffs​
​https://www.facebook.com/woodhawkriffs

​

Thanks to Asher Media PR for all of the details.

An Interview With Sludge/Stoner Metallers BISON (The Electric Highway Festival Interview Special)

Sludge/Stoner Metallers BISON are performing at this year's The Electric Highway Festival on Saturday April 06th 2025 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The band released their last album You Are Not The Ocean You Are The Patient back in 2017 to a wave of critical acclaim. 

I caught up with the band to discuss what folks will have in store from BISON ahead of their festival performance.

How are things with you today?

Totally fine. Excited to take a couple of days off work and hit the road with the boys.

How are the preparations currently going?

We’ve been regularly exercising our livers and sending lots of memes back and forth in the group chat in order to get ready. Lots of inside jokes saved up, haha. We all live very spread out over BC and the Yukon so most of our prep is just practicing at home. Doing our homework, as it were. Then we usually all meet in Vancouver a couple of days prior to gig time to jam all together and load gear.

What can people in attendance expect from BISON for this festival performance?

Four fellas who absolutely love crushing skulls, laughing, bursting eardrums, hugging, and leaving everything on the stage. The whole point of the band has always been to channel the energy we don’t normally get to express day to day. At times that can lead to some big feelings on stage but we also try to have as much fun as possible.

What type of set will you be performing though I expect it will be a collection of greatest hits.

Yea I think it’s a pretty good mix of older and newer. Last time we were through with Anciients (October 2024) we both had to be mindful of our set lengths and stick to a tight schedule. This time we can let it breathe a little more and maybe switch it up on the fly if we feel like it.

Will you be performing any new material to surprise listeners with.

I can neither confirm nor deny wether or not there exists any unheard Bison material nor unreleased recordings at this current time

Will you be doing any more gigs before the festival happens and if so where will you be performing at?

We have one stop on the way out in Nelson (April 04, 2024 @ the Eagles Hall w/ Cave Dweller, Pure Love Eternal Peace & Sweetbeast)

What bands are you looking forward to see performing live at The Electric Highway Festival?

I can’t wait to see GOEFF again! Fucking love those dudes! And our old pal Cliff’s band the Getmines (Cliff also plays in Chunk who are on the friday). And I can’t wait to be pleasantly surprised by something new.

Bison released their last album Your Are Not The Ocean You Are The Patient way back in 2017. The album was critically acclaimed across the board. Did it surprise you the response that it received.

No I wasn’t surprised. Delighted, maybe, and of course relieved. As far as our catalogue goes though it’s some of my personal favourite tunes of ours.

Are there any plans to release any new material the very near future.

Again, I can neither confirm nor deny any recording sessions that may or may not have taken place or will take place in the future and any subsequent plans to release said hypothetical music theretofore.

What has been the high points and low points performing with the band?

The absolute lowest point (for me personally) was July 29, 2009. We had started a tour in Canada with our dear pals Barn Burner and Lazarus AD from Kenosha. The Canadian leg was amazing but as soon as we parted ways with Barn Barn Burner and crossed over from Winnipeg into the States it all went downhill. Breakdowns, sickness, summer in the desert, more breakdowns, promoters ripping us off, our TM Sara almost getting stabbed…it was relentless. We somehow survived but that was the first time I feel like we actually had to regroup and reevaluate. I was ready to call it a day after that one but I’m sure as hell glad we didn’t.

The early days were some great, high times, I mean points. It’s always fluid but the most consistent high period has been the last few years having Evan and Eugene in the band. We pushed ourselves really hard early on and suffered for it. We had a lot of casualties and fractured a lot of relationships. James and I have been doing Bison for…shit, 19 years this August?!? So we’ve learned a lot about each other in that time. Like any relationship it’s not always easy but communication is key.

Do you have any other musical projects that folks can check out or any exciting releases coming in the future?

Eugene put out a record last year with his band Bloodrhine (with Adam & Kent from Black Wizard) which is a riff-filled, bruiser! Evan and his partner Kirsty have a crushing batch of tunes they are releasing with their band Franklin. I was also incredibly fortunate to have been asked to do some guest vocals for both of them, which was an absolute honour.

How did you get involved with music? Was it a particular album, group or artist that made you want to write and play your own music?

I loved pop music when I was a kid in the 80’s. From there onto rap, classic rock, hard rock, punk, metal, grunge, industrial. The obvious answer would be Sabbath, Zeppelin, Nirvana, Black Flag, Melvins…but we were actually really lucky to have Much Music back then. Getting exposed to so many amazing underground Canadian bands that were heavy as fuck but also just looked like us was really inspiring. And then digging deeper and deeper into the underground. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again - Shallow North Dakota, Kittens, I-Spy, Swallowing Shit…I wouldn’t be doing this if it weren’t for them.

Will you be performing any gigs later in the year?

We just announced a gig in Vancouver at Red Gate Arts Society. It’s the one year anniversary of Matterhorn Records, the shop started by our pal Johnny Matter. It’s with our pals Night Court, Big Ethel and the Disruptions. We have some other stuff in the works too but nothing we can announce yet.

Before you go, do you have any words of wisdom for your fans currently out there?

There are a lot of absolutely horrendous things going on in the world right now and we all gotta watch out for and take care of each other. Bison stands with all marginalized communities. If anyone thinks that all people don’t deserve to simply exist without fear then they’re fucked. Everything is political.

Words by Steve Howe and BISON

Links

Facebook | BandCamp

​Electric Highway Festival Info:

Website: TheElectricHighway.ca​
Facebook: Facebook.com/ElectricHighwayFestival​
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1149647296782460/​
Instagram: Instagram.com/TheElectricHighway​
X: X.com/TheElectricHwy​

Thanks to BISON for doing the interview and for Asher Media PR for arranging the interview

Evil Still Remains. An Interview With MAT DAVIS From Doom Metallers CASTLE (The Electric Highway Festival Interview Special)

Doom Metallers CASTLE are performing at this year's The Electric Highway Festival on Friday April 05th 2025 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. They released their new excellent new album EVIL REMAINS in 2024 to critical acclaim and it's not hard to see why as the record is a cold hard classic Doom Metal album of the highest order.

I caught up with Mat Davis (Guitar/Vocals) from the band to discuss what folks will have in store from CASTLE ahead of their festival performance.

How are things with you today?

Hi, things are going great. Thanks for reaching out with the interview.

How are the preparations currently going?

We have 28 shows coming up split into a couple of tours in the US/CAN and also Europe so right now there's a lot of planning. The first show is Electric Highway Fest in Calgary and really we're looking forward to it.

What can people in attendance expect from CASTLE for this festival performance?

We're stoked to be closing night one of the fest so we'll probably do our full set, usually it's a mix of high energy and heavy vibes.

What type of set will you be performing though I presume it will be focusing upon your excellent new album EVIL REMAINS.

Yeah we're currently playing 6 of the songs from the new album. We're also playing at least a song or two from every release including one we haven't played in a while from In Witch Order for these upcoming shows, so between the new ones and a few older deep cuts I think people will dig it.

What bands are you looking forward to see performing live at The Electric Highway Festival?

I'm looking forward to seeing as many bands as possible. A couple I've seen here in Vancouver so will be cool to see them again, hopefully, I can catch Chunk and Blacksmith & Brewer. There's a bunch of local Calgary bands which will be cool to see too.

Your new album EVIL REMAINS was released last year and what a brilliant record that was. Have you been pleased with the responses it's received so far. What can people expect from this record compared to your previous albums.

Awesome thanks. You never know what to expect but we were happy with the finished record. We spent a long time on it for us, about 5 years; which was enough to let the songs evolve so that there was a natural flow to them and our producer Jesse Gander here in Vancouver also did an awesome job on the sound. Having said all that it's extra cool when people are into it.

What has been the high points and low points performing with the band?

I think the high point is getting to traveling and also meeting/seeing people. Not many lows but they usually involve long travel days or feeling like crap on the road!

Do you have any exciting releases coming in the future?

We'll be working on new Castle music over the summer and fall so hopefully we'll have something next year. 

How did you get involved with music? Was it a particular album, group or artist that made you want to write and play your own music?

I don't think there was one band in particular but I started playing guitar at a pretty young age. At the time I listening to Priest, Dio, Ozzy, Sabbath, Maiden, Metallica... this would have been like '83/84. I would say I was and still am inspired by the riffs.

Will you be performing any gigs later in the year?

We're looking into some more North American shows in late 2025, we'll keep you posted.

Before you go, do you have any words of wisdom for your fans currently out there?

Thanks for the support and hope we see you on the road!

Words by Steve Howe and Mat Davis

CASTLE "Evil Remains" North America

04/04 Calgary, AB - Electric Highway Fest
16/04 Sacramento, CA - Cafe Colonial
17/04 Los Angeles, CA - Knucklehead
18/04 San Francisco, CA - Kilowatt
19/04 Mt Shasta, CA - Vet's Club
20/04 Portland, OR - High Water Mark
21/04 Seattle, WA - El Corazon
30/04 Toronto, ON - The Garrison
01/05 Detroit, MI - Smalls
02/05 Chicago, IL - Legions Of Metal Fest
03/05 Madison, WI - Gamma Ray Bar
04/05 Pittsburgh, PA - Poetry Lounge
05/05 Brooklyn, NY - The Woodshop
06/05 Boston, MA - Middle East Club
07/05 Montreal, PQ - Piranha Bar
08/05 London, ON - Palasad
09/05 Hamilton, ON - Doors Pub
10/05 Ottawa, ON - Dominion Tavern

CASTLE "Evil Remains" Europe 2025

29/05 Muskelrock Fest @ Tyrolen, SE
30/05 Hamburg, DE - Bambi Galore
31/05 Desertland - Berlin DE
01/06 Prague, CZ - Modra Vopice
02/06 Goppingen, DE - Zille
03/06 Düsseldorf, DE - Pitcher
04/06 Rotterdam, NL - V11
05/06 Landgraaf, NL Nieuwe Nor
06/06 GockelScream Fest - near Dresden DE
07/06 Battle Cry Fest @ Turock, Essen DE

Links

Facebook | BandCamp | Instagram

​Electric Highway Festival Info:

Website: TheElectricHighway.ca​
Facebook: Facebook.com/ElectricHighwayFestival​
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1149647296782460/​
Instagram: Instagram.com/TheElectricHighway​
X: X.com/TheElectricHwy​
​​
Hashtag #BuckleUp #EHF2025

Thanks to Mat for doing the interview and for Asher Media PR for arranging the interview

Exclusive Album Premiere Of Canadian Stoner Psych Desert Rock SWEETBEAST's Debut Album "Illusions"​

 

L-R - Eric Gorzynski - Vocals/Guitar, Alex Graham - Backup Vocals/Bass, Colton Schofield - Drums, John Hermary - Vocals/Guitar

Blending the cosmic dimensions of psychedelic, stoner, and desert rock, Kelowna, BC, Canada's SweetBeast's debut album "Illusions" invites you to lose yourself in their fusion of heavy, low-tuned guitars and melodic, psychedelic riffs.

Aiming to give fans a fully immersive listening experience, the band transports the deep, heavy grooves and layered, psychedelic soundscapes as if you’re on a journey through the mind or some otherworldly place. Each track is designed to pull the listener in with dynamic shifts, powerful riffs, and moments of reflection, creating a balance between intensity and space.

SweetBeast comments on the record's release:

"We couldn't be more excited to share our debut album Illusions. Since forming in 2018, we've faced our share of ups and downs, from lineup changes to lost tracks, but we’ve always pushed forward. With each challenge, our sound has evolved into something we’re incredibly proud of—something that blends the raw energy of Queens of the Stone Age and Kyuss with the spacey, psychedelic textures of Pink Floyd. It’s been a long journey building this body of work, and we couldn’t be more proud to share it with fans new and old. SweetBeast thrives on keeping things unpredictable, with odd time signatures, tempo shifts, and mood swings that keep the listener guessing.

Each track represents different aspects of life, consciousness, and the illusions we create for ourselves. This album digs deep into personal experiences and the strange journey of self-discovery. Over the last few years, we’ve found new meaning in our music and channeled that energy into these songs.

This album holds a special place in our hearts, dedicated to our late friend and mentor, Jay Scott, who believed in us from day one. Jay, a legend in the music scene who toured with bands like D.O.A. and No Means No, gave us the push we needed to keep going. His support and encouragement helped us stay the course, and we were lucky enough to have him in the music video for our track 'Illusion'. This one’s for you, Jay—until we meet again."

Due out on February 21st, 2025 from Humalien Records, 

"Illusions" can be heard in full before it officially drops via its album stream premiere below thanks to the cool folks over at Asher Media PR.

Recommended for fans of Queens Of The Stone Age, All Them Witches, Kyuss, and Alice In Chains, SweetBeast's album “Illusions” is due out on February 21st, 2025 from Humalien Records, and will be available for pre-order at https://sweetbeastrock.bandcamp.com/​

First Single - “Dream Eater” - https://youtu.be/ErLKQGlu8Qk

Digital - https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/sweetbeast/dream-eater​

Second Single - Music Video - Illusion ft. Space Queen - https://youtu.be/ApFf3TDSuf0​

Digital - https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/sweetbeast/illusion-feat-space-queen-single​

Track Listing:​

1. 70/30 - 7:57
2. Thunder - 4:01
3. Dream Eater - 5:29
4. Midnight - 4:38
5. Plastic People - 6:41
6. Illusion ft. Space Queen - 11:26
Album Length - 40:12

More info: 

SweetBeast.ca

Facebook.com/SweetBeastFuzz

Instagram.com/sweetbeastfuzz

Tiktok.com/@sweetbeastfuzz

Thanks to Asher Media PR for all of the details.

SweetBeast - Illusions (Album Review)

Release Date: February 20th 2025. Record Label: Humalien Records. Formats: DD

Illusions - Track Listing:

1. 70/30 - 7:57

2. Thunder - 4:01

3. Dream Eater - 5:29

4. Midnight - 4:38

5. Plastic People - 6:41

6. Illusion ft. Space Queen - 11:26

Members

Eric Gorzynski - Vocals/Guitar

Alex Graham - Backup Vocals/Bass

Colton Schofield - Drums

John Hermary - Vocals/Guitar

Review

Illusions is the debut album from Psych/Fuzz/Stoner Rockers SweetBeast who fuse a classic style of Blues, Grunge, Sludge and Americana vibes into their music and these guys are Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada. This record could have easily suffered from a real sense of identity crisis as SweetBeast go through multiple different styles of Heavy Rock though this album is an absolute marvel with the band crafting a subtle record that is superbly heavy and beautifully pop-centered when the mood calls for this.

With influences of bands such as Alice In Chains, QOTSA, King Buffalo and KYUSS appearing within the creative throws of the entire record, SweetBeast employ a loud, vast and desolate landscape which comes alive superbly well in the early stages of the album on tracks such as 70/30, Thunder and Dream Eater. The tracks convey a fine art of cinematic storytelling and instrumental Psychedelic jams which can be quite daring with it’s epic grooves and screeching sludgy guitars which becomes more Post-Rock, Post-Doom and Alt-Rock as time passes by. 

The vocals are rich and quite varied that are provided by band members Eric Gorzynksi (Guitar), Alex Graham (Bass) and John Hermany (Guitar). The band have their good friends Space Queen providing guest vocals on the stunning final title track and it’s really one of the genuine highlights of the whole album. As the track can be dominated by a “POPPIER” vibe without losing that Sludge/Stoner element SweetBeast expertly built up on the whole album.

Illusions is firmly rooted in both Classic Rock and Modern Rock soundscapes which allows SweetBeast to switch musical tactics throughout that allows the record to be quite a tender and emotionally charged record at point before exploding into a neverending style of Cosmic Doomed Out grooves. With a soulful Prog Rock delivery appearing on later stages of the record that resonates the most when moments of Fuzz Rock and Post-Rock appear out of nowhere and drags the album closer to the likes of ELDER, King Buffalo and WeedPecker before the record is out.

Illusions is built upon excellent production values that has a certain resemblance to the seedy backdrop of 1970’s Doomedelic Rock and the swagger of the 1990’s Grunge/Stoner Rock scene. SweetBeast have released an outstanding debut album that should see the band gain a significant following within the underground scene to make themselves more well known.

Overall, Illusions is a spectacular record that everyone should own right now.

Words by Steve Howe

Thanks to Asher Media PR for the promo.

Illusions will be available to digitally via Humailen Records from Friday 21st February 2025.

Links

SweetBeast.ca

Facebook.com/SweetBeastFuzz

https://sweetbeastrock.bandcamp.com/track/dream-eater-2

Instagram.com/sweetbeastfuzz

Tiktok.com/@sweetbeastfuzz

The Electric Highway Festival (Calgary, AB) Announces 2025 Lineup w/ BISON, CASTLE, LA CHINGA, BUFFALO BUD BUSTER and more!

The Electric Highway 2025 Lineup Spotify Playlist - https://spotf.fi/ZQXtQay​

The Electric Highway Festival is excited to announce the full lineup for the 2025 edition of the Festival being held in Calgary, AB on April 4 & 5 at Dickens (1000 9 Ave SW).

Canadian veteran sludge metal band BISON headlines the whole festival while doom metal band CASTLE headlines Friday night. They will be joined by Southern California band FEVER DOG, and various Western Canadian bands including LA CHINGA, BUFFALO BUD BUSTER, THE GETMINES, 88 MILE TRIP, and more.
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​The Final Full Line Up by Day:​
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​Friday, April 4, 2025​

Castle (San Francisco/ Vancouver)

Buffalo Bud Buster (Calgary)
Blacksmith and Brewer (Vancouver))
CHÛNK (Vancouver)
Hydracat (Edmonton)
The Astral Prophets (Calgary)
BUNS (Calgary)
Doors 5pm - Show 6pm
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​Saturday, April 5, 2025​

Bison (Vancouver)
La Chinga (Vancouver)
Fever Dog (Southern California)
The Getmines (Vancouver)
88 Mile Trip (Vancouver)
Lover (Calgary)
GEOFF (Calgary)
Doors 5pm - Show 6pm

Advance 2-day passes are available for $75. Advance single-day tickets are $40 for Friday and $45 for Saturday

Festival passes and single-day tickets are available at www.theelectrichighway.ca/festivalstore/​

Event info: https://www.facebook.com/events/1149647296782460/​

​The Electric Highway Festival hosts various genres that range from Desert Rock, Stoner Metal, Doom, Sludge, Trippy Psychedelic, Surf Rock, Acid Rock, Noise Rock, Fuzz Rock, Space Rock, Blues Rock, Heavy Psych, Heavy Blues, Southern Rock, Fuzzy Punk, Sludgy Hardcore bands and variations of any of the previously mentioned styles. The festival includes a vendor area with interesting goods for attendees to take home with them.

Previous editions of the festival featured one of the event's past favorites Californian headliners Sasquatch, Juno Award-winning Canadian band ANCIIENTS, Vancouver’s La Chinga, Space Queen, Dead Quiet, and more, Gnarwhal from Yellowknife, NWT, Calgary’s Gone Cosmic, Hombre, Flashback among many more, and a whole host of other great bands.

Live Video by SlimBzTV – ANCIIENTS at EHF 2024 – Following the Voice - https://youtu.be/v9ETpkVSASA​

Live Video by SlimBzTV – Dead Quiet at EHF 2024 - Atoned Deaf - https://youtu.be/GDJB0RAZpC8​

Live Video by SlimBzTV - Sasquatch at EHF 2023 - New Disguise - https://youtu.be/K8IXhd4ERY0​

Live Video by SlimBzTv - La Chinga at EHF 2023 - Beyond The Sky - https://youtu.be/P741nkfJU7w​

Live Video - by SlimBzTV - Owls & Eagles at EHF 2023 - New Expectations - https://youtu.be/G2jUjDHbp9k​
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​For more info:

Website: TheElectricHighway.ca​

Facebook: Facebook.com/ElectricHighwayFestival​

Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1149647296782460/​

Instagram: Instagram.com/TheElectricHighway​

X: X.com/TheElectricHwy​
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Hashtag #BuckleUp #EHF2025

Business Partners/Sponsors:​

Asher Media Relations
Athena Bookkeeping Services Inc.
Black Collar Manufacturing
Calgary Metal Scene Events
The Celestial Agency
Dickens High Voltage TV
Loud as Hell Festival
METALHEADS UNITED
New Level Brewing
SlimBz TV

​​Travel and Tourism Partners:​

Tourism Calgary
Travel Alberta

Media Partners:​

Absolute Underground
Broken Neck Radio
CJSR 88.5 FM
CJSW 90.9 FM
Doomed and Stoned
Ghost Cult Magazine
The Obelisk
Outlaws of the Sun
Exclaim!
Metal-Rules
Bravewords
V13

Business partnerships and sponsorship opportunities are available. - Contact theelectrichighwayfestival[@]gmail[.]com for more information.

Thanks to Asher Media PR for all of the info.