Hard rock newcomers DEAD KARMA will release their debut EP, The Space Camaro, on August 23, 2024. Groovy, strutting riffs and vocal melodies that walk the line between tough and tender dominate the soundscape. The EP revives a classic, punchy hard rock sound that pulls vintage rock stylings into 2024 and commands a new respect for them.
Originally intended as a “stoner rock” project, with heavy inspiration drawn from early QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, the EP shines a spotlight on the unique influences of each member to create a blend of styles within an overarching hard rock feel. The songs themselves are not directly connected thematically, but present a snapshot of a band working out its initial process of writing and arrangement by gathering influences from across genres.
“The Purge” is the most aggressive song on the EP, contrasting the poignant ringing of a church bell with the clamor of warfare. The lyrics keep the ferocity biting with a tale of dark, tragic historical events repeating themselves in a vicious cycle. Vocalist and guitarist Andrew Cannell lets his education in history shine, taking inspiration from the world wars and their bleak aftermath.
“Space Camaro” contrasts sharply in mood with the first. Lyrically, it revels in the freedom and exhilaration of driving a muscle car with the company of friends on an open road. Its musical foundations stand fittingly rooted in punk rock and metalcore.
“Gravity Mirror” keeps tugging at the listener with the depth and duality of emotions that the band establishes. The lyrics delve into the heartache that comes with struggling and failing to maintain a relationship. The music continues to explore the band’s metalcore and stoner rock influences, with a dash of pop-inspired melodies throughout.
“Dominion” is the longest track on the EP, featuring sweet lead guitar phrasings throughout the verses and leaning heavily on the band’s post-hardcore influences. The lyrics return to the theme of loss, this time centering on the death of a loved one and subtly touching on the stages of grief. “Dominion” is by far the most personal song on the EP and is divided into two distinct halves that take the listener on the journey from anger and grief to acceptance.
The Space Camaro immerses listeners in a diverse musical journey that draws from a broad spectrum of emotions. With themes that range from the grief of loss to the joy of a friend’s company, DEAD KARMA tells its musical stories with conviction and humanity.
Listen to The Space Camaro here:https://youtu.be/Uxux3iDmLoE?si=snFZREifOx6bRf0r
About DEAD KARMA:
DEAD KARMA is a modern hard rock band with classic rock and roll sensibilities, formed by Andrew Cannell (THE ORACLE) and Raman Kambo in 2022 in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada. The band combines post-hardcore, metal, prog rock, and punk influences to construct a sound that leans heavy on hooks and technical, melodic leads. Before the departure of Kambo in October 2023, the band welcomed Sean Frankruyter and Jacob Jansen (THE ESSENTIAL LETDOWNS) into their lineup. The band began recording their debut EP, The Space Camaro, later that year.
The Space Camaro showcases melodic songwriting that draws from influences such as QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, TOOL, MASTODON, and BLACK SABBATH. The songs highlight each band member’s unique influences throughout the EP, and snappy vocal melodies anchor the more experimental, indulgent guitar work. Still early in their career, the band has discovered a cadence that enables them to layer many different pieces artfully in the studio, yet shine just as brightly as a 3-piece during live performances. The band is set to release their crushingly melodic EP later in 2024.
DEAD KARMA is:
Vocals/Guitars: Andrew Cannell
Bass/Vocals: Sean Frankruyter
Drums: Jacob Jansen
Album Credits:
Producer: Alec McRae
Recording studio: Schoolhouse Studios and Cultivate Music Studios
Engineer: Alec McRae
Mastering: Chris Rowan of Skaldic Studios
Mixing: Alec McRae
Album cover art: Mirko Dellamonica
Track Listing:
1. Space Camaro
2. The Purge
3. Dominion
4. Gravity Mirror