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 –

http://www.amazon.com/Remnants-Winter/dp/B00U3SLWGU/

Website –

https://www.facebook.com/RemnantsOfWinter