As far as inspiration for forming a metal band goes, we’re fully sold on the concept of movie-obsessed death metal. So, congrats to Canadian trio VHS for bringing it all together with a perfect moniker, as well. The outfit—Mike Hochins (guitar/vocals), Andy Middaugh (drums), Curtis Mill (bass)—generally chooses a theme for each release and on their seventh, Quest for the Mighty Riff, they landed on ’80s sword and sorcery flicks.
The 14-tracker touches on all the highlights of the genre, so expect to hear songs on subjects like the Beastmaster, King Arthur and so much more. The album features guest vocals from Aaren Pantke of Molder on “Cleave ‘Em and Leave ‘Em,” Marlee Ryley of Hyperia on “Crimson Haired Warrior,” Schuler Benson of Trocar on “There Can Be Only One” and James McBain of Hellripper on “Are You Afraid of Dragons?” Quest for the Mighty Riff was mixed by Mike Hochins and mastered by Topon Das/Apartment 2 Recording. Matt Harvey created the intro/interlude music, while Schuler Benson did the narration. It’ll see full release on LP, CD, cassette and digitally on May 19 via Wiseblood Records. You can preorder here.
Here’s what Mike Hochins had to say about the new full-length:
“Quest for the Mighty Riff I would say is our strongest album to date, both production wise and songwriting wise. The album art, the interludes and the songs themselves all weave a tale of sword and sorcery but of course with our usual dose of cheese. We will always have our tongues firmly planted in our cheeks and while our hearts will always be with horror, it was nice to take a side step into a different realm and tackle a different type of B-movie cinema. It’s an energetic good time that will hopefully have people using a garbage can lid as a shield and a hockey stick as a sword. We encourage both adventuring and headbanging on this quest!”
