When we are talking about pioneers of the Canadian Heavy Metal scene, the name ANVIL will certainly be among the first ones to pop up in our minds along with VOÏVOD. And it is a reputation well deserved. Based in Toronto, this band has never ceased to write and perform and twelve albums is a good proof of their longevity. Their latest Still Going Strong which is the third consecutive one to be produced by Pierre Rémillard was released last August in Europe on the Massacre Records label.

Steve «Lips» Kudlow (guitar, vocals) and Robb Reiner (drums) are the two legendary figures behind the success of ANVIL. It is with their second release in 1982 Metal On Metal that ANVIL will reach their hour of fame and glory when the title track will be one of the most famous metal anthem of that period. It is with great pleasure and expectation that we will be able to see them live here in Montreal and you can rest assured that ANVIL will deliver the goods.

Since the release of their first demo in 1991, HANKER never had the time to look back. With three albums under their belts and an ever growing popularity, HANKER should release their next album in Spring 2003. We will be able to hear two tracks Empower and Under Cover Of Darkness from this upcoming album the night of the show.

HANKER only got positive reviews for their most recent album Snakes And Ladders released in 2000. Influenced by IRON MAIDEN and JUDAS PRIEST with some 80's progressive bands as well, HANKER is one of the leaders of the Power Metal music made in Quebec.

Progressive Power Metal would be the best way to describe HEAVEN'S CRY music. They just finished recording their second album Primal Power Addiction. This new album was produced by the band's own Pierre St-Jean (guitar, vocals). We can also find two members of the now deceased band NECROTIC MUTATION in their ranks.

One month before their gig at the Powerpack, HEAVEN'S CRY will be one of the guests at the famous Prog Power Europe Festival in Holland and while they are there, they will take the opportunity to give a few concerts in some European cities.

Born from the ashes of the band HAUNTED, SOULFORGE offer us their unique brand of melodic Power Metal. A five song mini-cd has been available for a little while now but the band is busy working on their first complete album Duality that will be available on Great White North Records.

Source: Johnny Hart (Metal K.O. Productions Enr.)
For more info and/or interview: richard.maurice@sympatico.ca