Valcata Unleash 'Overload the Reactor', an Explosive New Single

First offering from forthcoming as-yet-untitled 3-song EP kicks off a new era for the symphonic prog-metal collective.

Valcata, the symphonic progressive metal collective known for weaving cinematic orchestration with emotional depth, has officially released Overload the Reactor. This first single from their upcoming 3-song EP is now available digitally worldwide on Bandcamp and all streaming platforms.

Rooted in themes of connection and determination, Overload the Reactor uses sci-fi-infused imagery to tell a fundamentally human story: two souls uniting to overcome darkness and embrace hope.

“This song is about the power of support,” explains composer Oha Cade. “Our protagonists find connection through a shared purpose. When you find yourself struggling, often all it takes is one other soul to help you break through."

A Global Lineup

• David Michael Moote (Operus) – clean and harsh vocals, honed in Toronto’s progressive metal scene.

• Sharon Portilla (Blind Hex) – clean lead vocals; she co-founded the Mexican neo-symphonic band Blind Hex in 2021.

• Landryx (ex-Unexpect) – versatile drummer from Quebec whose work on Unexpect’s acclaimed albums In a Flesh Aquarium and Fables of the Sleepless Empire fueled tours with elite acts including Dream Theater and Iron Maiden.

• Amin & Armin Saffar (Hyper Planet) – the Iranian-born duo add guitar and bass depth, fusing Persian heritage with avant-garde prog-metal (now based in the Netherlands).

• William Khan (Golden World Archive) – cinematic, neoclassical orchestration.

• Emil Reitan (Frostbitt, Trylion, Tulpas) – mixing/mastering at Iceland’s renowned Icicle Studios.

• Oha Cade – composer, lyricist, producer, and visionary force behind Valcata.

This lineup will continue across all tracks of the forthcoming EP.

New Overload the Reactor t-shirt added to the store

a new chapter

Since debuting in 2019 with their conceptual self-titled album, Valcata has earned praise for blending symphonic, progressive grandeur, and heartfelt storytelling. Overload the Reactor is the group's latest emotional anthem to signal a powerful new era.

Bandcamp: https://valcata.bandcamp.com/album/overload-the-reactor
Facebook: http://facebook.com/valcataproject
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valcata_official
Merch: https://valcata-merchandise.creator-spring.com/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/4v5p8lgoaI12d3E879sZ2d?si=26d244bc06ce40d3
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@valcatamusic
Website: https://www.valcata.com/

Unveiling 'Nightmares & Promises: The Forgotten Demos' — Resurrecting a Long-Lost EP from Valcata's True Origin

Bandcamp pre-order

Spotify pre-save

YouTube teaser

Valcata, known today as a symphonic metal collective that thrives on remote collaborations, began as a traditional six-member band based in Dublin, Ireland, from 2008 to 2010. The original lineup featured:

• Lorelle Brownlee – lead vocals (2008-2009)

• Joanne King – lead vocals (2009-2010)

• S. Hanan – lead guitar, harsh vocals

• Diarmuid Coughlan – rhythm guitar, backing vocals

• Darragh O'Connor – bass

• David McGuinness – drums

• Oha Cade – keyboards, backing vocals

In 2009, the band recorded a six-track demo EP called Nightmares & Promises. Shortly after, Lorelle left to focus on her studies, and Joanne stepped in as lead vocalist. After about a year of live shows, the group eventually disbanded. Valcata later re-emerged as a remote project led by Oha Cade in 2019, continuing to create music today.

Now, for the first time in years, Nightmares & Promises is coming back. This lost EP will be re-released digitally, letting Valcata’s current listeners experience these hidden treasures.

As a special bonus, the EP will feature two versions: one with Lorelle’s original vocals and another with Joanne’s newly recorded vocals, giving fans two different yet equally stunning takes on these classic tracks.

Two promo singles will be released this Friday Feb 14th:

1. Memory (Lorelle Version)

2. Tuatha Dé Danann (Joanne Version)

Listeners who pre-order the EP on Bandcamp will also get immediate access to Joanne's version of Memory and Lorelle's version of Tuatha Dé Danann.

The full double-EP will be released on Bandcamp and streaming platforms on February 21st.

With its old-school symphonic metal charm, catchy melodies, and driving instrumentals, Nightmares & Promises captures the passion and creativity of a young band making music they truly love.

Some original members have pursued other paths, while others continue to make music. Darragh co-founded the experimental extreme metal band Horrenda. Joanne frequently performs with her various rock cover bands such as Wildheart (Heart tribute) and Lady Riot (celebrating women in music).

~ Tracklist ~

1. Memory (4:25)

2. Tuatha Dé Danann (5:19)

3. The Illusionist (3:33)

4. Live No More (6:12)

5. Weeping Pool (4:41)

6. Forgotten (7:22)

Mixed and mastered by Shannon Bowman (Studio23).

Valcata Release New Single 'Archangel' featuring Pete Rawcliffe

The international symphonic metal collective Valcata return with their new single 'Archangel' featuring English sopranist Pete Rawcliffe (Crown Solace) on vocals.

"When I heard the incredible music of Crown Solace and Pete's stunning vocals, this was a collaboration I looked forward to," says composer Oha Cade, "Hearing him sing immediately inspired me to write a beautiful song, and I couldn't have dreamed how spectacular the final result would be. With his amazing versatility, range, and vocal creativity, he took it to an emotional level beyond what I could have imagined!"

The track was initially intended for release as part of Rawcliffe's solo work, but as the recordings progressed, all parties agreed that the song fit perfectly as a Valcata single. The song is a departure from Valcata's normally progressive style, focusing on a traditional symphonic metal direction, resulting in a heavy and dramatic banger inspired by big hits from the titans the genre.

'Archangel' also introduces other new names to the Valcata project. The guitars and bass for the song were performed by the Iranian progressive metal band Hyper Planet, made up of brothers Armin and Amin Saffar. Armin provides the groovy and virtuosic bass licks throughout, while Amin showcases thundering riffs and an astonishing guitar solo.

It's also the first Valcata song to feature full and lush orchestration, magically produced and arranged by William Khan, a Spanish composer and producer who runs the symphonic metal opera Golden World Archive. Jonas Schütz (Sacrosanct, Sapiency) from Germany returns on drums, enhancing the song with his killer grooves and signature prowess.

Lastly, the song was mixed and mastered to perfection by Joost van den Broek, a masterful engineer based in The Netherlands and a major name in the metal scene, having worked on music by bands such as Epica, Ayreon, and Powerwolf.

In conclusion, 'Archangel' is an example of the spirited collaboration that Valcata cultivates, and showcases yet another side to their versatile and powerful discography. It is, without a doubt, yet another promising sign of more great things to come from this collective of passionate musicians.

~

Credits

VOCALS
Pete Rawcliffe (Crown Solace) ~ England

GUITARS
Amin Saffar (Hyper Planet) ~ Tehran, Iran

BASS
Armin Saffar (Hyper Planet) ~ Tehran, Iran

DRUMS
Jonas Schütz (Sacrosanct, Sapiency, Eraserhead, Diësis, Condemned to Dream, First Encounter, Oceanrise) ~ Germany

ORCHESTRATION
William Khan (Golden World Archive) ~ Spain

MIXING AND MASTERING
Joost van den Broek (Ayreon, Epica, Powerwolf) ~ The Netherlands

ADDITIONAL CREDITS
Oha Cade — composition, lyrics, arrangement, production, design
Pete Rawcliffe — production, arrangement
William Khan — arrangement
Leiada Krozjhen — photography

~

Links:
Bandcamp
Spotify
YouTube
Apple Music
Website
Instagram
Facebook

Valcata Release Full-Band Playthrough Video for 'Paralyzed'

The ethereal symphonic progressive metal project Valcata return with a playthrough video for their powerful track Paralyzed. Bringing together an array of talented musicians from across the globe, Valcata manifest an immense and enthralling sound.

Watch the full band playthrough video below:

Initially beginning as a symphonic/power metal band based in Dublin, Ireland, Valcata now operates as a fully remote project led by Oha Cade, a composer based in New York. The music is produced online in its entirety.

2019 saw the project’s self-titled debut full-length unleashed, followed by the single Tower in early 2021. Now, Paralyzed showcases Valcata‘s thriving collaborations and evolving compositions.

Cade states: “As new music draws near, please enjoy this treat — a full band playthrough of our latest single Paralyzed. This is the first time we’ve given some proper performance visuals to our music and I’m very proud of how this turned out.“

Purchase the track on Bandcamp.

— LINEUP —

- Vocalists -
Stefani Keogh (NERGARD, WOODS OF WONDERS) ~ England — lead clean, backing clean/harsh
Marcos L. Peñate (EVENOR, EVERLASTING MORTALITY) ~ Spain — lead harsh, backing clean

- Guitars -
João Miguel (ENBLOOD, NEPHILIM) ~ Portugal

- Bass -
Chris Kollias (SL THEORY, SERENITY BROKEN, PERSONA NON GRATA) ~ Greece

- Drums -
Jonas Schütz (SACROSANCT, SAPIENCY, ERASERHEAD, DIËSIS, CONDEMNED TO DREAM, FIRST ENCOUNTER, OCEANRISE) ~ Germany

- Strings -
Nathaniel Wolkstein (www.nathanielwolkstein.com) ~ USA

- Synths -
Oha Cade ~ USA

VALCATA Release Visualizer For 'Paralyzed'

The ethereal symphonic metal project VALCATA return with their powerful new single Paralyzed. Bringing together an array of talented musicians from across the globe, VALCATA manifest an immense and enthralling sound.

“This song is about how being a musician can sometimes be torturous and depressing, because there's a climb to success that seems so insurmountable,” says composer Oha Cade.

“I'm sure not only musicians can relate to this, but anyone who has a dream or a goal and sometimes feels lost. Paralyzed is about a moment in time that many of us feel, where the future seems bleak. There is hope of course, and my hope is expressed in the creation of the song itself. I'm extremely grateful to have worked with the insanely talented musicians who have brought this song to life.”

Watch the visualizer for “Paralyzed” here.

Initially beginning as a symphonic/power metal band based in Dublin, Ireland, VALCATA now operates as a symphonic project led by Cade, who is now based in New York. The name VALCATA is a combination of 'falcata' (a type of ancient weapon) and Valhalla. 2019 saw the project's self-titled debut full-length unleashed, followed by the single Tower in early 2021. Now in 2022, Paralyzed showcases VALCATA's thriving collaborations and evolving compositions. Dark thundering rhythms burst into life accompanied by a delicate piano and eerie orchestration. Stefani Keogh's cleans soar above the metal instrumentation while Marcos L. Peñate's demonic harsh vocals bring a menacing impact.

From entwining melodies and soaring leads to dynamic percussion and technical elements, VALCATA offer a thrilling experience of symphonic metal. Paralyzed is an enchanting addition to their spellbinding discography.

— CREDITS —

- Vocalists -
Stefani Keogh (NERGARD, WOODS OF WONDERS) ~ England — lead clean, backing clean/harsh
Marcos L. Peñate (EVENOR, EVERLASTING MORTALITY) ~ Spain — lead harsh, backing clean

- Guitars -
João Miguel (ENBLOOD, NEPHILIM) ~ Portugal

- Bass -
Chris Kollias (SL THEORY, SERENITY BROKEN, PERSONA NON GRATA) ~ Greece

- Drums -
Jonas Schütz (SACROSANCT, SAPIENCY, ERASERHEAD, DIËSIS, CONDEMNED TO DREAM, FIRST ENCOUNTER, OCEANRISE) ~ Germany

- Strings -
Nathaniel Wolkstein (www.nathanielwolkstein.com) ~ USA

- Synths -
Oha Cade ~ USA

- Mixing And Mastering -
Jacob Hansen (AMARANTHE, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE, EPICA) ~ Denmark

Music, lyrics, and artwork by Oha Cade

Symphonic Metal Collective Valcata Release New Single 'Tower'

The online symphonic metal collective Valcata have released their new standalone single ‘Tower’. The song is the first glance of new music since their debut album in 2019, and was mixed by the acclaimed engineer Jacob Hansen (Pyramaze, Volbeat, Amaranthe).

Watch the lyric video below:

“We hope you’re as excited for this release as we are,” writes composer Oha Cade, “Since our debut in October 2019, I've been feverishly working on new music. While my ultimate goal is to create another full-length album, some things just can't wait. When you hear this song and the lyrical themes, you'll see why."

Follow Valcata here: valcata.com/links

Below are the full credits:

MIXING AND MASTERING
Jacob Hansen (Pyramaze, Volbeat, Amaranthe, Delain)

VOCALISTS
Hadi Kiani (Gereh, The Frame, Deaton LeMay Project) — as Hessabi
Angel Wolf-Black (Goditha, Alexandra Zerner, Vivaldi Metal Project) — as Hypatia
Joshua Morse (The Doubted) — as Morbus

GUITARS
João Miguel (Enblood, Tokyo Wanderer)

BASS
Chris Kollias (SL Theory, Serenity Broken, Persona Non Grata)

DRUMS
Jonas Schütz (Sacrosanct, Sapiency, Eraserhead, Diësis, Condemned to Dream, First Encounter, Oceanrise)

STRINGS
Nathaniel Wolkstein (Just Nathaniel, Gravity the Architect, Imagine the Moon)

SYNTHS
Oha Cade

ARTWORK
Joshua McQuary (McMonster)

Valcata Release Teaser Video for New Single 'Tower'

The online symphonic metal collective Valcata have put out a teaser for their new standalone single Tower, which will be released on February 12th, 2021. The song is the first glance of new music since their debut album in 2019, and was mixed by the acclaimed engineer Jacob Hansen (Pyramaze, Volbeat, Amaranthe).

Watch the video below:

“We hope you’re as excited for this release as we are,” writes composer Oha Cade, “Please pre-save, follow us and stay safe!“

Pre-save the song on Spotify and follow the band here: valcata.com/links

Symphonic metal collective Valcata announce new single 'Tower' — Pre-Save on Spotify

The online symphonic metal collective Valcata will release a new standalone single Tower on February 12th, 2021. Pre-save the song on Spotify here: https://show.co/iN8Pcpg

The composer of the project Oha Cade is originally from Clonakilty, Ireland, but is now based in Brooklyn, New York. He has this to say regarding Tower,

"Tower is, like our debut in 2019, a remote online production. Several musicians who featured on the 2019 album have returned, but we're also introducing new guests. Vocal-wise, on the returning side we have the incredible talents of Hadi Kiani (Gereh, The Frame, Deaton LeMay Project) and Angel Wolf-Black (Goditha, Alexandra Zerner, Vivaldi Metal Project), who reprise their roles as Hessabi and Hypatia. Our new guest is Joshua Morse from the band The Doubted, who appears as the new character Morbus, and delivers Valcata's first ever harsh vocals.

Drummer Jonas Schütz (Sacrosanct, Sapiency, Eraserhead, Diësis, Condemned to Dream, First Encounter, Oceanrise) returns again to grace us with his hammer-hearted rhythms. Then we have three new maestros — João Miguel (Enblood, Tokyo Wanderer) on guitars, Chris Kollias (SL Theory, Serenity Broken, Persona Non Grata) on bass, and Nathaniel Wolkstein (Just Nathaniel, Gravity the Architect, Imagine the Moon) on strings — all of whom elevated this music with their creativity and unique contributions.

Last but certainly not least, this track was mixed and mastered by the legendary producer Jacob Hansen, who has brought to life the music of many bands that influenced us such as Volbeat, Amaranthe, Fleshgod Apocalypse, and Delain.

The artwork was done by Joshua McQuary (McMonster), who creates stunning watercolors. His style perfectly captures the song's atmosphere.

Since our debut in October 2019, I've been feverishly working on new music. While my ultimate goal is to create another full-length album, some things just can't wait. When you hear this song and the lyrical themes, you'll see why."

A teaser video is scheduled for next Friday, February 5th. Mailing list subscribers will receive the video in their inbox a couple days early.

Follow Valcata here: valcata.com/links

Below are the full credits:

MIXING AND MASTERING
Jacob Hansen (Pyramaze, Volbeat, Amaranthe, Delain)

VOCALISTS
Hadi Kiani (Gereh, The Frame, Deaton LeMay Project) — as Hessabi
Angel Wolf-Black (Goditha, Alexandra Zerner, Vivaldi Metal Project) — as Hypatia
Joshua Morse (The Doubted) — as Morbus

GUITARS
João Miguel (Enblood, Tokyo Wanderer)

BASS
Chris Kollias (SL Theory, Serenity Broken, Persona Non Grata)

DRUMS
Jonas Schütz (Sacrosanct, Sapiency, Eraserhead, Diësis, Condemned to Dream, First Encounter, Oceanrise)

STRINGS
Nathaniel Wolkstein (Just Nathaniel, Gravity the Architect, Imagine the Moon)

SYNTHS
Oha Cade

ARTWORK
Joshua McQuary (McMonster)

Symphonic Metal Opera 'Valcata' Released

October 18th 2019 — Today sees the release of Valcata — a new independent symphonic metal opera album. The project features a staggering ensemble of eight lead singers (four female and four male), each portraying a unique character through the lyrics. It was produced online in its entirety and features musicians from around the globe, including both emerging and established artists. The album is the work of composer Oha Cade who is based in Brooklyn, New York.

“Everyone involved worked extremely hard on this album. It's a dream come true to finally share the whole story with the world!”

Taking a fresh approach to the genre in 2019, Valcata is an elaborate work that exhibits a superabundance of influences while sustaining a sharp and ferocious energy.

Check out and support Valcata at the links below:

Valcata on Bandcamp
Valcata on iTunes
Valcata on Google Play
Valcata on Spotify

Sign up for the newsletter at www.valcata.com.

Follow the project on social media:

www.valcata.com
Facebook.com/ValcataProject
Instagram.com/valcata_official/

TRACKLIST

1. Stars
2. Our Quest
3. The Turning
4. Horror Machine
5. Life and a Million
6. 3-2-1
7. Beyond
8. Escalade
9. The Termination
10. Valcata

3-2-1 Lyric Video Released; Single Now Streaming On Spotify

The independent symphonic metal opera project Valcata has released a lyric video for their lead single, 3-2-1. The song showcases four out of the album’s eight vocalists — Angel Wolf-Black (Vivaldi Metal Project), Mary Zimmer (Helion Prime), Hadi Kiani (Gereh) and Kenneth Élan (Acoustic Dreams). The video details the lyrics as sung by the characters, against a background of dark sci-fi-inspired imagery. Watch it below:

3-2-1 is now available for streaming on Spotify.

Valcata was produced online in its entirety and features musicians from around the globe, including both emerging and established artists. The album is the work of composer Oha Cade who is based in Brooklyn, New York.

Pre-order Valcata on Bandcamp or iTunes and get the tracks Horror Machine and 3-2-1 instantly. These tracks can also be streamed in full on Bandcamp.

Pre-order on iTunes (get a discount and 2 tracks instantly)
Pre-order on Bandcamp (get 2 tracks instantly)
Pre-order on Google Play

Follow Valcata on social media:

www.valcata.com
facebook.com/ValcataProject
instagram.com/valcata_official

Valcata Album Teaser Trailer Revealed

A teaser video has been released for the upcoming symphonic metal opera Valcata. The teaser gives a glimpse into the variety of voices and musical styles on the album. Listen to the teaser below!

Valcata was produced online in its entirety and features musicians from around the globe, including both emerging and established artists. The album is the work of composer Oha Cade who is based in Brooklyn, New York.

Pre-order Valcata on Bandcamp or iTunes and get the tracks Horror Machine and 3-2-1 instantly. These tracks can also be streamed in full on Bandcamp!

Pre-order on iTunes (get a discount and 2 tracks instantly)
Pre-order on Bandcamp (get 2 tracks instantly)
Pre-order on Google Play

Follow Valcata on social media:

www.valcata.com
facebook.com/ValcataProject
instagram.com/valcata_official