Prisoner, a metal band from Calgary, is heading out on a cross-Canada tour this summer.
With fast guitar riffs, powerful vocals, and emotional lyrics, they’re ready to show fans what they’re made of.
The group started in a basement over five years ago, but things really came together in the last two.
“We’ve got four guys now in this group that really believe in this project,” said guitarist and singer Murray Emery. “It’s fun to become something that we are all taking very seriously.”
They recently released two new singles, Lost in Control and Stress Fracture, from their upcoming album. Both songs show off the band’s mix of speed, heaviness, and emotion.
“Lost in Control is that perfect song where it’s heavy and it’s fast, but it’s not so overly intense it showcases each member in a positive light,” Emery said. “Stress Fracture gives the listener a true dynamic feel of what the band is about.”
Their music is inspired by real-life struggles, current events, and how people think and feel.
“I try to write in a way that is very transparent just to invoke the idea of critical thinking. Music should divide in a way that you really love this or you really don’t like that.”
“It just kind of became that interpersonal project. They believed in us as people. Who wouldn’t want to make music with their friends,” he said.
Prisoner’s sound mixes classic heavy metal with modern style. They’re influenced by bands like Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, and Metallica, but they don’t try to copy anyone.
After years of hard work, things are picking up fast. Their Spotify numbers jumped 4000% in the last year. Now, they’re taking that energy on tour, with a Toronto stop at the Bovine Sex Club in August.
“Fans should just expect 110 per centevery night,” Emery said. “We’re not just a band that plays music. We’re entertainers.”
He says everyone is welcome, whether they love metal or are just curious.
“If you’ve never been to a heavy metal show before and you’re a little unsure, we’re the band for you,” he said. “It’s also a place to be part of the community.”
The band is set to hit the stage in Toronto on Aug. 17. For tickets and tour info, visit prisonerband.ca.
