THE BEAST

L-R - Josh MacDonald (Bass), Matt Johnstone (Guitar/Vocals), Bretton Melanson, (Drums/Vocals), Jeff Mabb (Guitar/Vocals)
Photo Credit - Chris Geistlinger

From British Columbia's Okanagan Valley in Canada, Nomad has been making a name for themselves locally for the last several years, playing at local fests and supporting big-name acts in the extreme metal scene. Now they have their debut album “The Mountain” ready for consumption and their blend of progressive, groovy death metal is sure to impress existing fans and entice new listeners. Their first single “Burning Alive” was the first song they wrote together, pieced together at their very first jam. The lyrics were inspired by the heat of that day, and the careless ignition of forest fires. They added blazing riffs, smokey vocals, and smooth bass lines to round it out, making it an impressive introduction to Nomad. They share their thoughts on the album:

“We’re hoping that it fills the need for a little groove in the metal scene. We’ve spoken to many people in the audience after playing a show that say there are not enough bands like Nomad out there that like to slow it down and catch you with a good hook once in a while. We feel that many emotions and influences can be felt throughout this album and are sure to keep the listeners engaged and entertained with heavy riffs, blasting beats, and dynamic vocals.”

There have been a few lineup changes in Nomad since their inception and each one of those members has left their mark on the band’s music. They've always worked collaboratively, one member bringing in the skeleton of a song and it being workshopped until it meets everyone’s standard. This had led to masterful consistency, present in every groovy riff, every chunky chord, and throughout the blasting of drums.

The single “Burning Alive” can be heard via its premiere on Bravewords HERE . ​

“The Mountain” was mixed by drummer Bretton Melanson and mastered by Christian Donaldson (Cryptopsy). It is recommended for fans of Gojira, Lamb of God, and Pantera.

Album pre-order (CD, Digital) - Nomadbc.bandcamp.com ​

Track Listing:​
1. Burning Alive (4:30)
2. Haunted (6:00)
3. Revolution (6:05)
4. Relentless (6:09)
5. A Lonely Wanderer (5:08)
6. Blood Moon (9:40)
7. Rise in the Fall (6:20)
8. Processor (6:56)
9. Choke (8:52)
Album Length: 59:38

Album Credits:​
- All songs written and performed by Nomad.
- Additional writing contributions by past members:
Kasey Klassen
Lorne Valliers
Dylan Heska
Justin Kleinsasser
- Mixed by Bretton Melanson
- Mastered by Christian Donaldson
- Album Artwork by: Angela Grimmuza/ Art Of Grimmuza
- MAPL - Canadian Content

Album and Live lineup:​
Bretton Melanson: Drums/Vocals
Matt Johnstone: Guitar/Vocals
Jeff Mabb: Guitar/Vocals
Josh MacDonald: Bass

For more info: Facebook.com/nomadmetal | Instagram.com/nomadbandbc ​

About: Nomad is a dynamic, progressive death metal band from the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Canada and consists of drummer/vocalist Bretton Melanson; guitarist/vocalist Matt Johnstone; guitarist/vocalist Jeff Mabb; plus bassist Josh MacDonald. Kickstarted by Johnstone who was looking for an outlet, he approached Melanson and since the material felt right and with their previous history playing together, the ball was rolling. Over a few years, there was a lineup flux, with each additional leaving their mark on the material. Ultimately, they then recruited Mabb as a second guitarist and MacDonald on bass, and working collaboratively, they weave their melodic, groovy death metal.

Looking to avoid the violence and gore tropes that are quite prominent in metal music, they tend to tell stories based on fictional characters, historical events, science fiction, and astrophysics. Each member adds their own flair to the songs, imprinting their distinct influences.

When they hit the stage, the audience is greeted by multiple vocalists that deliver a massive wall of layered sound, integrated sound effects, and a well-thought-out visual element. They played Canada’s prominent Armstrong Metalfest in 2016-2019 and performed alongside bands such as Kataklysm, Origin, Soulfly, and Alestorm. They are releasing their debut album “The Mountain” in 2023.