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“This album showcases a band in absolute command of its craft and its direction. It also displays a band that forms a strong part of the future of progressive rock and metal music, nationally and globally. Devotees of the style need to jump on this. NOW.” – Wall Of Sound, 9/10

“…Reliqa are soon to become a big name in the world of music with the release of their debut album Secrets Of The Future, a daring step into the future of the band.” – Metal-Roos, 4.5/5

“The universe that is Reliqa is a wild ride of sonics…They’ve harnessed that energy, contained it within twelve songs that bursts at the seams like a powered atom bomb. For a band that prides itself in unpredictably, ironically it’s arguably the most consistently brilliant album from an Australian artist this year.” – HiFi Way

“Reliqa have sized themselves up for a big year with Secrets of the Future…I hope we see and hear much more from them in the latter half of 2024 and beyond.” – Heavy Magazine

“It’s a journey that’s wide and varied that shows off a band with a growing maturity and strong sense of being. They may not have known what they were before, but Reliqa is more than sorting it out now.” – Loud Online

“Secrets of the Future is a thorough and meticulously well-crafted debut album…it’s an album that will prove a joy to revisit.” – The AU Review

“Reliqa have crafted a rich and intricate labyrinth with twists and turns that keep the listener constantly on their toes, immersing them completely every step of the way…Without a doubt, ‘Secrets of the Future’ is a contender for album of the year” – Good Call Live

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Sydney’s Reliqa has unveiled “Secrets of the Future”, their sophomore album that redefines progressive metalcore. This twelve-track opus is a bold affirmation to the band’s exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to their craft. Fronted by Monique Pym’s powerful vocals and driven by the guitar work of Brandon Lloyd, the rhythm section of brothers Miles (bass) and Benjamin Knox (drums) provides a solid foundation for the band’s dynamic sound.

“Secrets of the Future” is a musical journey that weaves together innovative songwriting, raw emotion and all in all just mind blowing instrumentals. It’s a testament to the band’s technical virtuosity and their ability to seamlessly blend genres, creating a sound that is uniquely their own. The album’s release is set to propel Reliqa to new heights, solidifying their position as one of Australia’s most promising metal acts. Signed to Nuclear Blast Records, they have already shared the stage with renowned artists like Spiritbox, BABYMETAL, and Halestorm, proving their ability to command a global audience.

With “Secrets of the Future”, Reliqa has not only released an album but a statement of intent. This is a band that is unafraid to push boundaries, experiment with sound, and redefine what it means to be a modern metalcore band.

The opening track “Dying Light” is a complex exploration of the intoxicating nature of power and the sacrifices one might make to maintain it. The song delves into the struggle between authenticity and performance, highlighting the protagonist’s internal conflict as they navigate the complexities of identity, fame, and the fear of vulnerability. It serves as a powerful opening track, setting the stage for the album’s broader themes of self-discovery and the pursuit of truth. The song’s themes of power, manipulation, and identity foreshadow the album’s overarching narrative, inviting listeners to embark on a journey of self-discovery alongside the band.

With “Dying Light”, Reliqa not only delivers a powerful and catchy anthem but also establishes themselves as a band willing to take risks and evolve their sound. This track, along with the rest of the album, showcases their artistic maturity and cements their place as a driving force in the progressive metalcore scene.

“Cave” is a standout track for me, bringing to light Pym’s breathtaking vocal range and versatility. The song allows her to shine as her voice soars to angelic heights, before plummeting into a raw, visceral power that sends shivers down your spine. The catchy beat and instrumental breakdown make it an infectiously enjoyable listen. Lyrically, the song delves into a descent into darkness, exploring the self-imposed barriers we create (“Climb down the hole, start a conversation with the walls”) and the confrontation with our own flaws (“The space between is shallow, face to face with all your faults”).

The following track, “Killstar (The Cold World)”, shifts the focus, opening with a melodic electronic intro that seamlessly transitions into a blistering guitar riff from Lloyd. His playing is so intricate and powerful, it’s like a lightning strike illuminating the darkest corners of the song. Pym’s vocals take a surprising turn in the third verse, morphing into a rapid-fire rap delivery that adds a new dimension to this masterpiece of an album.

Overall, “Killstar (The Cold World)” is a blistering indictment of a society teetering on the brink of collapse. It’s a wake-up call, a musical alarm bell clanging in our ears, urging us to confront the shadows lurking within ourselves and the world around us. The song is a rallying cry for change, a desperate plea for a brighter future.

With a sharp intake of breath at the opening of “The Flower”, Pym launches into the song, declaring “I have a problem” with an immediacy that grabs your attention. The harmonisations throughout the track are exquisite, weaving a tapestry of sound that elevates the song to another level. Pym also revisits the rap delivery from “Killstar (The Cold World)”, adding a gritty edge to the song’s emotional core.

The track takes a dramatic turn at 2:05, abruptly cutting off before building back up with the lyrics of the outro. The crescendo builds like a gathering storm, Pym’s voice rising with each line: “Dreaming of sunlight, condemned to the dirt / Washing my hands of the sins I have taught, and those you have learned / I’m taking some time underground now, to salvage the petals I burned / If poison to me is salvation to you then I’ll take it, I’ll take it, I’ll take it / Now watch me in…” The final word, “Bloom,” is whispered before the song explodes into a ferocious breakdown that courses through the rest of the track. The intensity of this moment is indescribable, sending chills down your spine and leaving you breathless.

It’s easy to imagine the chaos this song would unleash in a live setting. The breakdown is a primal call to arms, a musical riot that would bring a mosh pit ablaze.

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“Sariah” is a hauntingly beautiful song about self-discovery and seeking guidance amidst uncertainty. The sparse instrumentals create an intimate atmosphere, perfectly reflecting what could be Pym’s internal struggles. A standout guitar solo by Lloyd injects pure energy, mirroring the song’s emotional intensity. The lyrics offer multiple interpretations of Sariah: Could she be a spiritual guide? A mentor or role model? Or perhaps an aspect of Pym’s own subconscious? This song’s lyrics leave it up to interpretation, inviting personal reflection and connection. Additionally, the song subtly celebrates feminine strength, adding another layer of depth to its exploration of self-acceptance.

“Terminal”, a fan favourite since its release in February 2024, delves into the turbulent depths of self-destruction and the struggle for control. The lyrics paint a vivid portrait of a narrator wrestling with inner demons, their self-loathing fuelling a cycle of destructive behaviour. They confess to losing themselves in this downward spiral, slipping further away from the familiar comforts of home. The repeated cries of “Rage” build to a cathartic crescendo, hinting at a recognition of these self-destructive patterns and a potential turning point. This unexpected twist reveals a playful side to the band’s musicality, adding a vibrant layer to the song’s emotional depth.

“Keep Yourself Awake” is a phenomenal track, plunging into a dark and pensive soundscape, highlighting Miles’ driving bass riffs, which chug and slap through the track with a head-bobbing intensity. The song explores the depths of human paranoia, self-doubt, and the struggle for autonomy, creating a chilling atmosphere of psychological suspense that challenges listeners to confront their deepest fears. This is a track that perfectly encapsulates Reliqa’s unique blend of introspection and unparalleled power, solidifying their place as a force to be reckoned with in the modern metalcore scene.

In a striking departure from the album’s heavier tracks, “Crossfire” emerges as a tender and introspective ballad. The song’s gentle opening, adorned with Pym’s delicate vocals and poignant lyrics, reveals a new dimension to the band’s artistic palette. As the song unfolds, a captivating narrative of love, conflict, and resilience takes shape. The song’s impeccable production strikes a perfect balance between restraint and experimentation, resulting in a listening experience that is both captivating and emotionally resonant.

“Physical” explodes back into the album with a potent dose of melodic metalcore, showcasing a captivating battle between Miles’ intricate basslines, Monique’s searing guitar riffs, and Ben’s thunderous drumming. This intricate instrumentation creates a thrilling soundscape that is both aggressive and melodic. Lyrically, “Physical” serves as a visceral exploration of the internal struggles we face, capturing the complexity of human emotions and the often contradictory impulses that drive us. Ultimately, “Physical” is an anthem for embracing the full spectrum of our emotions, even the anger and darkness that may lurk beneath the surface.

“Two Steps Apart” is a bittersweet ballad exploring the complexities of human relationships, delving into the pain of emotional distance and the yearning for connection. The song’s melancholic melody and introspective lyrics, complemented by a soulful piano interlude, create a profound sense of longing and introspection. Despite the sombre tone, a powerful vocal performance with pop-rock influences emerges amidst the heavier instrumentation, offering a message of hope and resilience. It’s a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always the possibility for growth, understanding, and reconnection.

“Spark” is a song that really gets you thinking about life’s big questions. It’s about trying to find meaning and connection in a world that can feel like it’s constantly moving and changing. Pym’s Aussie accent shines through in the spoken word part, making it feel super relatable for us Aussies who are proud of this band representing us on a global scale. The lyrics dive into that inner battle between chasing your dreams and keeping those meaningful relationships alive, and the fear of missing out on those special moments that can change your life. It’s a reminder to slow down, appreciate the present, and cherish the connections that truly matter.

“Upside Down”, the album’s poignant closing track, serves as a powerful resolution to the overarching narrative of self-discovery and acceptance. It finds the band at their most vulnerable, baring their souls through melancholic melodies and lyrics that cut deep. This emotional outpouring culminates in a final, cathartic breakdown that leaves listeners with a lasting impression – chills running down their spines and goosebumps raising on their skin. It’s a fitting conclusion to an album that has taken us on a journey through internal conflict, fear, and uncertainty, ultimately arriving at a place of newfound understanding and self-acceptance. The song’s melancholic yet hopeful tone leaves us with a sense of closure, reminding us that embracing our flaws is not just okay, it’s an essential part of the human experience.

Progressive metalcore is thriving, with a new generation of artists constantly pushing the boundaries of what the genre can be. It’s become a hotbed of experimentation, where bands are blending diverse influences and constantly challenging themselves to create something fresh and exciting. This has resulted in a highly competitive scene, where each new release is a chance for these artists to make their mark and leave a lasting impression on fans and critics alike. With “Secrets of the Future”, Reliqa has firmly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the global metal scene, proving that they are not merely following trends, but actively shaping the future of the genre.

Order and stream SECRETS OF THE FUTURE HERE

RELIQA are:

Miles Knox – Bass | Benjamin Knox – Drums
Monique Pym – Vocals | Brandon Lloyd – Guitars

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Destroy All Lines + Open Door Mgmt Presents

RELIQA
SECRETS OF THE FUTURE TOUR

WITH SPECIAL GUESTS
RINRIN

FRIDAY 14 JUNE 2024 – UNIBAR, ADELAIDE 18+*
SATURDAY 15 JUNE 2024 – BERGY BANDROOM, MELBOURNE 18+
THURSDAY 20 JUNE 2024 – THE BRIGHTSIDE, BRISBANE 18+ – NEW VENUE
SATURDAY 22 JUNE – BOOTLEGGERS, SYDNEY 18+
SUNDAY 23 JUNE 2024 – DRIFTERS WHARF, GOSFORD LIC AA ^

*w/ Caligula’s Horse, RinRin not appearing

^ Never Had So Much Fun Fest, RinRin not appearing

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Tickets from Tickets from destroyalllines.com

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SECRETS OF THE FUTURE
Track Listing:

01. Dying Light
02. Carve
03. Killstar (The Cold World)
04. The Flower
05. Sariah
06. Terminal
07. Keep Yourself Awake
08. Crossfire
09. Physical
10. Two Steps Apart
11. A Spark
12. Upside Down

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Follow RELIQA

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Press Release 31st May 2024 (below) HERE

RELIQA

Debut album
SECRETS OF THE FUTURE
out now

Touring nationally
this June

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AMNPLIFY – DB