L-R: Armando Bablanian (Guitar) | Stan Komarovsky (Bass) | Michel Karakach (Drums) | Mike Symons (Vocals) | Ran Zehavi (Keys) Photo Credit – Jon Blacker
Set to release their first full-length “Troubled Mind” at the end of March 2025, Toronto prog Derev is kicking off their first leg of tour dates for 2025across Ontario and Quebec.
“Troubled Mind” follows Derev’s 2021 debut EP “Leap of Faith”. 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 now a powerful reality.
“Troubled Mind” builds on the foundation laid in Derev’s first release, 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.
“While our debut EP tackled broad themes like war, technology, and injustice in the world, Troubled Mind shifts focus to the personal realm. We wanted to explore and articulate various mental states, the subtle thoughts, and inner dialogues that when nurtured and fed over time, makes us who we are. And while we offer some kind of resolution in a few tracks, the purpose of the album is to explore and highlight these different states of mind, rather than try to resolve them.” adds the band.
Derev‘sdynamic lineup now includes bassist Stan Komarovsky, providing the backbone of Derev‘s sound, and keyboardist Ran Zehavi from the progressive rock band Scalar, adding depth and complexity. Leading the live charge is frontman and vocalist Mike Symons to replace previous singer Adel Saflou who is featured on “Troubled Mind”.
Set for release on March 26, 2025, Derev‘s debut album “Troubled Mind” promises to be an introspective journey, offering listeners a relatable experience with mental health and its struggles. It is recommended for fans of Opeth, Dream Theater, and Porcupine Tree.
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
Derev is a progressive rock band captivating global audiences with its innovative blend of progressive rock and traditional Middle Eastern music.
After fleeing the war in the Middle East and finding refuge in Toronto, Canada, founding member, and Drummer Michel Karakach reunited with his best friend, guitarist Armando Bablanian, to turn what was once a mere childhood dream into a powerful reality.
Derev’s debut release “Leap of Faith” melded the raw energy of hard rock with the rich textures of traditional Middle Eastern music they grew up with, offering a fresh perspective on topics often overlooked in modern music. This distinctive sound quickly caught the attention of both local and international audiences, propelling Derev into a series of successful shows across Canada.
The band’s dynamic lineup now includes bassist Stan Komarovsky, providing the backbone of Derev’s sound, and keyboardist Ran Zehavi from the progressive rock band Scalar, adding depth and complexity. Leading the live charge is frontman and vocalist Mike Symons to replace previous singer Adel Saflou who is featured on their forthcoming studio offering “Troubled Mind”. Symons’ compelling presence and vocal prowess complete the live ensemble.
As Derev gears up to release their anticipated second album “Troubled Mind” on March 26th, 2025, they continue to carve out a unique niche in the music world. Their innovative sound promises to captivate new listeners and industry veterans alike. Keep an eye on Derev as they redefine what rock music can be.
Discography: 2025 – Troubled Mind – LP 2021 – Leap of Faith – EP
“Toronto prog quintet Derev will release their debut full-length album, Troubled Mind, on March 26. The yearning, epic tones of Cyclone is the second single to be taken from the upcoming album, and Derev will be touring throughout Ontario and Quebec over the coming months to support the new album.” – Prog Magazine – Great new prog you must hear… Tracks Of The Week – Cyclone – Feb 21, 2025 “The best part of the album (Troubled Mind) is the band’s ability to carry strong emotions into their music. Many of the songs are not complicated, but they are loaded with feelings. I’m not sure I have heard a Progressive album that is this unpretentious and this emotional at the same time. 8/10” Metal-Temple “its eight tracks draws us into a music that combines intensity and peaceful atmospheres of old school prog. The melodies thus highlight many sound universes from one composition to another including beautiful vocal harmonies and important instrumental parts… Derev delivers retro-sounding music with plenty of late 70s and early 80s progressive influences… Troubled Mind, with its instantly relatable melodies, is a resounding success. 4/5” – Prog Critique “For the prog-rock group Derev, this new work continues to carry on its shoulders the burden of the misfortune of living in times of war, which unites two childhood friends: Michel Karakach (battery) and Armando Bablanian (guitar), who after fleeing the war in the Middle East and taking refuge in Toronto (Canadá), meet again through music to reflect on pain, loss and, above all, persistence…. This album represents a profound act of emotional liberation both for its creators and for those who immerse themselves in listening to it.” – Dargedik
“Derev’s sound combines the energy and intensity of metal music with the atmospheric sound of old-school progressive rock, while incorporating elements of their Arabic and Armenian heritage.” – The Prog Space
DEREV – Troubled Mind ON/ QC Tour March 15 – Barrie, ON – The Queens w/ Kill/Death Radio & Cudbear March 22 – Toronto, ON – The Supermarket w/ Magnavita & St. Doval, and Rod Rodrigues 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 April 25 – Kingston, ON – The Mansion w/ Mad Wet Sea & Guests
13th March 2025: The brand new reimagined, mixed and mastered version of Gentle Giant’s classic 1977 live album ‘Playing The Fool’ is set to be released on 2nd May.
‘Playing The Fool: The Complete Live Experience’, will be released across several formats including double CD, triple vinyl, Blu-ray and digital download in 96/24 stereo, 5.1 surround sound and Dolby Atmos mixes. The album has been painstakingly mixed and mastered from the original source tapes by producer Dan Bornemark, who has worked extensively with the band on archival projects.
Containing new sleeve notes together with a plethora of photographs along with a track list that reflects the original running order of the setlist played on the tour including three previously unreleased songs and the between song banter from frontman Derek Shulman, this represents the most accurate account of Gentle Giant live at the very peak of their prowess.
Check out trailer for the album here:
Derek Shulman: “Effectively what you’re hearing on this album is the whole show with all the bells and whistles included with me speaking to the audience and to the band just like it was on the night.”
‘Playing The Fool: The Complete Live Experience’
Intro [1:24]
Just the Same / Proclamation [10:40]
On Reflection [7:31]
Interview [7:06]
The Runaway / Experience [9:54]
Sweet Georgia Brown (Breakdown in Brussels) [1:54]
Derek Shulman: “It’s important to have a live album, which is live. There were no overdubs afterwards in the studio. So what you saw and heard is what you have on the album.”
ABOUT GENTLE GIANT
Gentle Giant was a British progressive rock band formed in 1970 in London by three brothers Derek, Ray and Phil Shulman along with Gary Green, Kerry Minnear and drummer Martin Smith who was latterly replaced by John “Pugwash” Weathers in 1972.
The group was renowned for its complex and eclectic musical style, blending elements of rock, jazz, classical, folk and medieval music. The band played a diverse array of instruments between them and their intricate arrangements and exquisite vocal harmonies gave them their own unique, instantly identifiable sound.
Gentle Giant released a series of highly regarded albums including ‘Acquiring the Taste’ (1971), ‘In a Glass House’ (1973), and ‘The Power and the Glory’ (1974) across which they pushed their musical boundaries to the limit. Their live album ‘Playing The Fool’ (1977) remains a testament to their stunning live shows.
In 1980 Gentle Giant called it a day and have refused numerous calls to reform since then, perhaps this is why their reputation remains intact to this day. Wide Scale chart success may have eluded them but their fiercely loyal fanbase followed them right through their career and beyond. Their legacy has remained undiminished within the Progressive Rock world being major influences on Porcupine Tree`s Steven Wilson, Neal Morse of Spock’s Beard, Michael Sadler of Saga and Opeth`s Mikael Akerfeldt, who cites ‘Acquiring The Taste’ as one of his favourite albums.
Derek Shulman: “We were a rock and roll band that played interesting music and we wanted to have fun for ourselves and have the audience go out with a smile on their faces.” Official Website:www.gentlegiantband.com
The latest Murky Red video, Pineapple Sweet, is a mesmerizing fusion of sound and surrealism, designed by Stef Flaming using cutting-edge AI technology. The video brings the band’s signature atmospheric rock to life with a dazzling visual experience—imagine a psychedelic Monty Python-esque journey, drenched in vibrant, dreamlike imagery. It’s a mind-bending feast for the senses, perfectly complementing Murky Red’s unmistakable sonic landscape.
Murky Red is a Belgian progressive rock band known for blending classic rock, blues, and psychedelic influences. Their music often features a mix of moody atmospheres, intricate guitar work, and poetic lyrics, reminiscent of bands like Pink Floyd, Deep Purple, and The Doors.
The band was formed by Stef Flaming (vocals, guitar) and Yolanda Flaming (keyboards, backing vocals) and has gained recognition in the underground prog scene. They released albums such as Time Doesn’t Matter (2012) and No Pocus Without Hocus (2015), both of which were well-received for their warm, vintage sound.
Murky Red has been associated with the Melodic Revolution Records label sine 2012 and has built a loyal fan base among progressive rock listeners.
Refestramus will be releasing a new music video, “Fox on the Run” only on YouTube at https://youtu.be/fQGJzCQ0qsY this Friday, March 14, at 12PM CT/10 AM PT/5 PM UK time. The cover of the Sweet classic by Chicago’s prog punkers was inspired by the band’s Wizard/songwriter/drummer Derek Ferguson love of the synthesizer sound and that “the song has a great hook.” While the original Sweet version used an ARP Odyessy, Refestramus’ cover starts with Apple’s Garageband app on iPad for the synthesizer sound.
In fact, the whole recording other than drums and vocals was recorded on an iPad before being mixed and mastered by Ian Beabout at his studio.
Derek Pavlic played keyboards, guitars, and bass. Craig Cairns sang all the vocals. The recording was engineered and produced by Refestramus’ long time producer, Colouratura’s Ian Beabout.
Unavailable on streaming digital sites like iTunes or Spotify, Refestramus’ “Fox on the Run” is exclusively on YouTube, and is mainly an A.I. presentation except for Agent M dancing, running, and making joyful faces to the song, plus band member shots. However because Derek Ferguson loves playing with A.I., he turned his bandmates into glam stars, most notably the end of the video with Craig’s face as a fox. He also has an A.I. fox visiting him and Derek Pavlic in the recording studio.
Refestramus is currently working on their third studio album with Crack the Sky’s Rick Witkowski at his Studio L recording studio in Weirton, West Virginia. Ian Beabout is once again in the producer’s chair, aiming for a release shortly before the band plays UK’s HRH Prog Fest, in Yarmouth this fall. The group will be playing the International Pop Overthrow Fest in Chicago this spring. Refestramus was born May 2020 as Derek’s home studio project during the COVID pandemic They released “Decoupage” in 2021, and “Intourist” on Melodic Revolution Records in 2024.
We are absolutely thrilled to announce that the highly anticipated music documentaryCountdown to a Better Day (2025) by Time Horizon has made an incredible debut on the film festival circuit!
Silver Award Winner – On its very first entry, Countdown to a Better Day has been honored with a Silver Award at the prestigious Christian Family Film Festival.
Official Selection – The film has also been officially selected for Cinemafest 2025 in New York, further solidifying its impact and recognition in the film and music communities.
Featuring legendary musicians Michael Sadler (SAGA) and Michael Manring (Michael Hedges), this compelling documentary takes viewers on an inspiring journey through music, passion, and perseverance.
About Countdown to a Better Day
In 2023, Time Horizon filmed a documentary and live performances in Northern California, featuring songs from their recently released album, “POWER OF THREE.” They enlisted the expertise of Clark Langon, an award-winning and experienced director and producer, to bring their vision to life. Clark has worked with artists such as Foo Fighters, Alicia Keys, Brad Paisley, and more.
Watch Countdown to a Better Day Trailer Here
About Time Horizon
The Band started as a bunch of friends writing music together and grew from there. Ralph Otteson had played in a band called “Iron Clay Poets” during the mid-’90s. They played around the Central Valley of California for a few years and finally recorded an album, however, the album was never released after being finished due to the disbanding of the members. It was through mixing this album with the help of Bruce Gaetke that brought together what would become the origins of Time Horizon.
Time Horizon is…
David Mau: Lead Vocals and support keys Ralph Otteson: Keyboards, background vocals Bruce Gaetke: Drums, lead and background vocals Allen White: Electric and acoustic bass David Miller: Electric and acoustic guitars Michael Gregory: Lead electric guitar
Stay tuned for more details! https://httpsmrrmusiccom.lsnto.me/timehorizon
New album In Search of Being out on June 6th, 2025.
After the successful release of the song “Becoming, (R)evolution,” progressive metal trio Phase Transition, are now set to release the new single, “Veil of Illusions.” The track comes from the group’s forthcoming debut album, In Search of Being, due out on June 6th, 2025.
The band comprised of violinist/vocalist Sofia Beco, guitarist Luís Dias, and drummer Fernando Maia, say this about the track: “The song explores themes of self-doubt and personal discovery that are part of adulthood, including progressive guitar riffs and virtuosic solos that elevate its intensity.”
Watch the video here:
Writing for the album started in 2023 when guitarist Luís Dias was in Barcelona for a while. The band worked on the music remotely which took about a year and a half to lay down, then another six months to produce and record everything. The final production, mixing, and mastering was done with the help of former Anathema member Daniel Cardoso, at Öhme Studio.
Tracklisting: 1. Dichotomy 2. Becoming, (R)evolution 3.Veil of Illusions 4.Shadows of Grief 5.The Other Side
Pre-order here: In Search of Being Sofia Beco, Luís Dias, and Fernando Maia began playing while at university, in the middle of their studies for exams, with Dream Theater covers. While trying to pass their courses, they managed to release their first EP called “Relatively Speaking”, in 2020. Since then, they have been playing in several venues like HardClub and festivals such as Comendatio Music Fest. The band combines influences ranging from classical music to technical progressive metal, as a result of the eclectic backgrounds of the members.
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