PROG-ROCK POWERHOUSES O.R.K. RETURN WITH NEW ALBUM ‘FIREHOSE OF FALSEHOODS’
.R.k.’s new album Firehose of Falsehoods marks another chapter in the band’s ever-evolving exploration of progressive, alternative, and art rock and captures their signature mix of spontaneity, intricacy, and supreme musicianship. Firehose of Falsehoods continues the journey that O.R.k started with 2015’s debut Inflamed Rides and carried forward with their 2022 album Screamnasium, their music often exploring themes of tension, redemption, and the human condition. With Firehose of Falsehoods, the band—featuring Colin Edwin (Porcupine Tree), Pat Mastelotto (King Crimson), Lorenzo Esposito Fornasari, and Carmelo Pipitone—delivers a collection that balances raw energy with their distinctive musical prowess. “the sound of O.R.k becomes a vessel of beauty” – Classic Rock
Fans of their acclaimed Screamnasium will find plenty to love here from hauntingly cinematic moments to visceral, riff-driven passages. Featuring a guest appearance from former Porcupine Tree touring member John Wesley, Firehose of Falsehoods highlights the band’s evolving creative dynamics and their place in the landscape of modern progressive music. O.R.k have a highly anticipated run of European performances coming up in 2025, including stops in the UK and Austria.
LP Tracklisting
Side 1
1. Blast Of Silence ( 04:13 )
2. Hello Mother ( 03:25 )
3. The Other Side ( 04:35 )
4. 16000 Days ( 04:18 )
Side 2
1. PUTFP ( 05:31 )
2. Seven Arms ( 03:23 )
3. Beyond Reach ( 04:35 )
4. Mask Becomes The Face ( feat John Wesley ) ( 05:56 )
Also available on CD
Genre: Prog-Rock
For Fans Of: Porcupine Tree, Soundgarden, King Crimson, Riverside, The Pineapple Thief, The Mars Volta, Oceansize, Alter Bridge
Interesting Facts:
Drummer Pat Mastelotto is best known for his long tenure with King Crimson.
Pat Mastelotto also played drums on ‘I’ll Be There For You’, The Rembrandts track made famous by the sitcom Friends.
Bassist Colin Edwin was a long term member of the progressive band Porcupine Tree.
The band has worked with Adam Jones of Tool, who created the artwork for their album Ramagehead.
Their album Ramagehead (2019) was particularly well-received and features guest vocals from Serj Tankian (System of a Down).
To celebrate today’s release of their live album, Jon Anderson and The Band Geeks announce the second leg of their 2025 U.S tour. The 11-show tour commences June 15th at the Warner Theater in Washington D.C and ends July 13th at The Factory in St. Louis, Missouri. These shows follow the previously announced 18 show leg that starts April 1st in Tucson, Arizona. Both legs of the tour will feature an evening of YES classics as well as tracks from their critically acclaimed debut album TRUE released August 2024.
Premiering today is a video for the YES classic Roundabout, taken from the CD/DVD/Blu-ray “Jon Anderson and The Band Geeks Live- Perpetual Change”. The video can be seen here:
Dates for the 2025 tour are below:
April 1-Tucson AZ –The Rialto Theater April 3-Anaheim CA-The Grove of Anaheim April 5-Las Vegas NV-The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas April 8-Oakland CA-Fox Theater April 11-Sacramento CA- SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center April 14-Seattle WA- Moore Theater April 19-Rockford IL-Coronado Pac April 23-Milwaukee WI-Pabst Theater April 25-Des Plaines IL-Des Plaines Theater April 27-St. Charles IL-The Arcada Theater April 30-North Tonawanda NY-Riviera Theater May 2-Cleveland OH-The Agora May 4-Lancaster PA-American Music Theater May 7-Wilmington DE-The Grand Opera House May 10-Ridgefield CT –The Ridgefield Playhouse May 12-Ridgefield CT-The Ridgefield Playhouse May 16-Westbury NY-Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair May 18-Carteret NJ- Carteret Performing Arts Center
June 15-Washington DC-Warner Theatre June 18-Ocala FL-Circle Square Cultural Center June 20-Clearwater FL-Ruth Eckerd Hall June 23-Dallas TX-Moody Performance Hall June 25-Austin TX-Paramount June 27-San Antonio TX-Tobin Center July 01-Macon GA-Auditorium July 05-Farmington PA-Timber Rock Amphitheatre July 07-Ocean City NJ-Ocean City Music Pier July 11-Nashville IN-Brown County Music Center July 13-St. Louis MO-The Factory
When the WOBBLER keyboard virtuoso LARS FREDRIK FRØISLIE released his first solo album “Fire Fortellinger” in 2023, fans of both WOBBLER and classic 70s prog took the album to their hearts, and it became a great success. Now, his follow-up album “Gamle Mester” is set to be released on May 9th.
On his second solo album “Gamle Mester” (Old Master), Lars Fredrik Frøislie pays homage to the greats of the past. Drawing inspiration not only from the pioneers of progressive rock but also from art, literature, and mythology, the album reflects on timeless acts of creativity that still resonate today. The title is derived from the ancient oak tree “Den Gamle Mester,” found at Krødsherad Prestegård, which also inspired a poem of the same name by Jørgen Moe. This symbolic tree serves as a unifying theme throughout the album, representing wisdom, endurance, and the passage of time.
The title track “Gamle Mester” is chosen to be the first single from the album, released on the 14th of March. It can be heard on several streaming services and download services:
Lars Fredrik has this to say about the track: The title of the track is partly derived from the ancient oak tree “Den Gamle Mester”, found at Krødsherad Prestegård, and partly from the somewhat vague art history term “Gamle Mester” (Old Master), which is often used about pre-eminent European artists like Rembrandt, Rubens, Da Vinci, Botticelli, etc. I guess you could call this the pop song on the album. Quite catchy, rather short and perhaps even simple, but with a mixture of the strictly composed and the loosely improvised. I think I captured some spontaneous magic in the organ solo, which I’m happy with.
Like on the previous album, Frøislie takes on vocals and drums, as well as a formidable array of instruments including a few tons of old analogue keyboards such as Hammond C3, Mellotron M400, Minimoog Model D, Chamberlin M-1, Yamaha CP70B, William de Blaise Cembalo Traverso, Hohner Clavinet D6, Rhodes MkII and Arp Pro Soloist. Joining him is Nikolai Hængsle (ELEPHANT9, NEEDLEPOINT, BIGBANG, BAND OF GOLD etc.) on Rickenbacker 4003 Bass, and Ketil Einarson (EX-Jaga JAZZIST, WESERBERGLAND, WHITE WILLOW) on flute and recorder.
With “Gamle Mester,” Lars Fredrik Frøislie delivers an album steeped in history, mythology, and musical brilliance. A must-have for progressive rock enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Track listing for “Gamle Mester” is as follows: 1. Demring (Dawn) 2. Jakten På Det Kalydonske Villsvin (The Hunt for the Calydonian Boar) 3. Gamle Mester (Old Master) 4. Medusas Flåte (The Raft of the Medusa) 5. De Tre Gratier (The Three Graces) 6. Skumring (Dusk)
With artwork by Frøislie himself, “Gamle Mester” will be released on CD, Limited Edition Gatefold LP on Green / Transparent Marble Vinyl and digital formats, and is now available to pre-order from the following links:
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
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
Subscribe To Our Newsletter
Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from our team.
