Tag Archives: #BelgianMetal

CATALYST Unveils Explosive Single “FIRE IN THE ENGINE ROOM” Ahead of Album Release Show

Prepare for a musical explosion as CATALYST, the Belgian metal band from Waasland, launches their dynamic single “FIRE IN THE ENGINE ROOM,” a teaser for their forthcoming album release show on September 9th at Kavka Antwerp.


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Crafted as a powerful and critical reflection on society, “FIRE IN THE ENGINE ROOM” showcases a heavier and more intense sound than CATALYST’s usual repertoire. This track, part of their upcoming album ‘THE AGE OF ROCKETEERS,’ marks a significant step in the band’s musical evolution.

The single opens serenely, only to swiftly catapult listeners into a whirlwind of intense riffs and potent vocals by frontman Jeroen. The song’s dynamic nature intertwines speedy guitar passages with serene interludes. An unexpected funky medley halfway through adds an exciting twist, leading to an epic conclusion.

To celebrate the single’s release, CATALYST presents a thrilling music video created by guitarist Aäron. Compiled from live footage of their pre-release show in the ghost town of Doel in March 2023, the video mirrors the song’s energetic essence. Watch the video on YouTube, while the single is available on all streaming platforms.

Album Artwork:
Designed by Lien Van Ranst, the artwork reflects the impact of space exploration on our generation and symbolizes social evolution.

Don’t miss the explosive album release show of ‘THE AGE OF ROCKETEERS’ on September 9th at Kavka Antwerp/Belgium!


Hailing from Belgium, CATALYST (2018) fuses elements of metal to address today’s societal fears and failures. With members spread across Waasland (BE), Hulst (NL), Sint-Niklaas (BE), and Lennik (BE), the band’s sound is fueled by political, economic, and ecological concerns.
Following the end of the Heavy Metal project Gitaron, Philip Pedraza and Aäron Onghena decided to continue their musical journey. Joined by Benjamin Onghena and Jannes Lemaitre (ex-Titan, Patroness), they formed CATALYST. Later, vocalist Jeroen Van Ranst (Monomad) completed the lineup.

CATALYST released their first three songs in 2018, followed by “Sustainable Dignity” and “Fear Well” in 2019. Drummer Jannes Lemaitre left, replaced by Sam Bogaert (ex-Dead end Path, ex-Oceans Burning). In 2021, the band released “Rights of Passage,” paving the way for a full-length album reflecting on post-pandemic society and rocketeers’ reign.

Upcoming Tour Dates:

09/09/23 – Kavka
Album release show
TICKETS

24/09/23 – Rock/metal café HELL
Catalyst – Hunter – Axident

02/12/23 – BIEBOB Vosselaar
BARKCATALYSTHOPE ERODES
TICKETS

A complete list and future shows can be found here.

CATALYST’s Members:

Jeroen Van Ranst: Vocals

Benjamin Onghena: Bass, Vocals

Sam Bogaert: Drums

Philip Pedraza: Lead Guitars

Aäron Onghena: Rhythm Guitars

Photo: Leendert Photography


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Belgian heavymetallers SHOCKER Unveil Debut Album Title and Artwork

The inception of SHOCKER dates back to 2018, with the seeds of the idea planted long before in the minds of Sammy and Koen. However, due to various challenges and obligations in their daily lives, the concept was put on hold.

Drawing from diverse musical backgrounds, SHOCKER embarked on a quest to discover common ground, and it was in this shared space that their distinctive sound began to take shape.


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Unfettered by genre boundaries, SHOCKER thrives on mixing genres and styles, exploring the vast expanse of possibilities that lies ahead.

Amidst the waves of the pandemic, SHOCKER found a fortunate window to enter the studio. The debut EP was meticulously crafted at closed sessions recording studio, with Kristof Maes at the controls. Upon its release in March 2021, the EP garnered a slew of promising reviews.

From that creative fire, emerged new compositions, embracing a weightier and darker tone. It is with pride that SHOCKER announces their full album, titled “Fractured Visions Of The Mind,” accompanied by the revelation of its cover art.

The album’s recording and mixing took place at Shellshock Studios under the guidance of Pieter Nyckees, and its mastering was deftly handled by Frederik Dejongh at Jerboa Mastering.

SCHOCKER IS:

  • Vocal: Sammy Peleman (ex After All, ex September sin)
  • Bass/Backing: Koen Vanassche (ex Gea Bolga, ex wapenspraak & drinkgelag..)
  • Guitar/Keys: Chris Dedeurwaerder (ex Phoenix Rebellion)
  • Guitar: David Vandewalle (ex Anesthesy, exArtrach)
  • Drums: Louis Genovese

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