The writers and performers of heavy
metal known as Remnants of Winter have released their debut
self-titled LP record, “Remnants of Winter.” The record has been
proudly published as an independent release without the interference
of the corporate music infrastructure. The album comprises eight
original tracks for approximately 30 minutes listening time. Melodic,
evocative, and boasting equal parts aggression and imagination,
“Remnants of Winter” by Remnants of Winter is a striking example
of metal's relentless spirit in sheer and undeniable force.
Remnants of Winter cite as main
artistic influences Taake, Wintersun, Burzum, Ulver, Amesoeurs,
Uaral, Woods of Ypres, Jesu, Peste Noire, and Alcest. Their own style
and tone shares qualities with all these, though the real power of
their music comes from a rare mix of pain, strength, and darkness.
The heart of Remnants of Winter are a
duo from New York and New Jersey respectively, Joe Cantamessa
(instruments) and Matt Storm (vocals and lyrics). The interaction and
camaraderie between them forms the crux of what differentiates
Remnants from other popular independent metal groups of today, as
does the unusual, unfortunate circumstances surrounding the inception
of their project.
Asked to describe the themes of their
“Remnants of Winter” LP, they list: “Near-death experience.
Chronic pain and illness. Anxiety. Drug addiction. Alcoholism.
Escapism through ritual and fantasy. Multiverse theory. Chaos. Hope
for peace after an epic journey. A modern-day telling of an epic
hero's journey to live on a day-to-day basis while struggling with
disease, wrapped in a timeless fantasy theme.”
The near-death experience they casually
mention is not that of an imaginary person, but rather, that of
Storm, himself. Their current bio includes that Cantamessa and Storm
played live together in 2010-2011 while Cantamessa filled in for an
absentee guitarist. In time that particular band broke up. It wasn't
to be the most tragic part of Storm's year.
Storm was diagnosed with a crippling
stomach disorder and extreme anxiety shortly thereafter. His weight
fell below 100 lbs. He nearly succumbed.
A temporary solution was implemented,
however, which granted Storm a much-needed reprieve, and in 2013 he
began talking with Cantamessa on a more regular basis over social
media. Cantamessa had some songs written, the project for which he
called Remnants of Winter. Their musical chemistry made them
prolific, and in spite of a four-hour drive which made live sessions
unlikely, they completed the resulting album by recording in separate
home studios.
Their bio concludes with the following
declaration: “Now with the release of 'Remnants of Winter''s debut
album, and Matt's road to recovery having been successful thus far,
who knows what the future holds for Remnants of Winter?”
Who knows, indeed? But one fact remains
unimpeachable: the arresting narration, staggering creativity, and
soul-wrenching sonic currents thrumming in the “Remnants of Winter”
LP stand as rock-hard evidence that metal music can be a
frighteningly sharp sword that heals.
“Remnants of Winter” by Remnants of
Winter is available online worldwide beginning 31 March 2015.
-S. McCauley
Lead Press Release Writer
www.MondoTunes.com
“Remnants of Winter” by
Remnants of Winter –
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