Here is Kobra & The Lotus getting some traction. When the fans do this on their own, it's the real thing
April 23th, 2013
Hey Folks–
Just confirmed that Kobra and the Lotus will be Clear Channel Online’s featured developing artist for the entire month of June. They’ll receive prime placement on all of their Active Rock station websites and a whole lot more.
Simmons Records/UME Recording Artists Kobra And The Lotus Make Their Major Label Debut April 16th.
Their Own “ROCK CITY” TV Show Premieres on SPIKE TV in September.
LOS ANGELES - (BUSINESS WIRE) - Kobra And The Lotus make their major label debut with their self-titled album KOBRA AND THE LOTUS on April 16, 2013, on Simmons Records/T-Boy Records/Universal Music Enterprises (UME).
Formed in 2009 by powerhouse vocalist Kobra Paige, Kobra And The Lotus have been more than busy touring Canada, the UK and Europe extensively with ball-busting hard work and intensity that secured coveted slots at Hellfest, Wacken Open Air, Download and Bloodstock in 2012.
The life of Kobra Paige and her band Kobra And The Lotus, will be chronicled for the show “Rock City,” airing on Spike TV, Fall 2013. Their 8 episode season will follow the grit, drama, and thrills, both on the road and off, as this emerging metal band takes to the road on their world tour.
Featuring female metal warrior Kobra Paige on lead vocals, Jasio Kulakowski on guitar, Pete Dimov on bass and Griffin Kissack on drums, the band recently added Latin America’s most famous metal axeman Charlie Parra del Riego.
For Kobra And The Lotus’ self-titled release, producer Kevin Churko (Rob Zombie, Five Finger Death Punch, Ozzy Osbourne) was brought in to assist delivering precise songs heavy with emotion. The Kobra and The Lotus release has an intentionally grand-scale dynamic, magnifying the glories of the genre and making its mark as ‘arena’ rather than ‘garage’ rock.
The band is co-signed to Gene Simmons’ label - Simmons’ Records. Simmons has a longstanding reputation for discovering, assisting or recognizing new artists like Van Halen. Many of the early artist demos he worked on or helped with have gone on to become multi-platinum records and legendary rock anthems.
Andy Gould, head and curator of T-Boy Records, recognized Kobra’s talent and his newly minted T-Boy Records will serve as the umbrella label for Kobra and The Lotus. T-Boy Records releases new music and albums from established iconic hard-rock bands. Current releases include Rob Zombie’s Venomous Rat Regeneration Vendor (due April 23) and Megadeth’s Super Collider (due June 4). Gould adds, “It’s great to have a fresh act on the label that is carrying on all the best heavy metal traditions. And of course, it’s fantastic to be in business with Gene [Simmons].”
Kobra and The Lotus packs a powerful 10-track punch featuring the multi-range wailing vocals of metal hellion Kobra Paige, with infectious harmonies and sweeping choruses over powerful metal riffs, thundering bass and rapid fire percussion. Kobra and The Lotus contains driving anthems “50 Shades of Evil,” “Welcome To My Funeral,” “My Life” and “Forever One,” more dramatic stylings in “Aria of Karmika,” and they build on tradition with “Nayana” and “No Rest For The Wicked.” The band sets the stage for a tender intimate moment with “Sanctuary” before launching into skull-crushing guitars to carry the track out.
In support of their new album, Kobra And The Lotus will now take on America with an extensive North American tour supporting Fear Factory. The carnage starts April 14 in Colorado Springs, CO, winding throughout the U.S. and Canada conquering this continent one face-melting show at a time.
In short, heavy metal has a New Face. A New Voice. A New Name. Kobra And The Lotus.
KOBRA AND THE LOTUS SELF-TITLED MAJOR LABEL DEBUT RELEASED APRIL 16
10 April 2013 (Toronto) – Female metal warrior Kobra Paige, along with guitarist Jasio Kulakowski, bassist Pete Dimov and drummer Griffin Kissack of Kobra And The Lotus are set to make their self-titled, major label debut on Tuesday, April 16TH via Simmons Records/T-Boy Records/Universal Music Canada, the country’s leading music company.
KOBRA AND THE LOTUS packs a powerful 10-track punch featuring Paige’s multi-range wailing vocals, with infectious harmonies and sweeping choruses over powerful metal riffs, thundering bass and rapid fire percussion. It also contains driving anthems “50 Shades of Evil”, “Welcome To My Funeral”, “My Life” and “Forever One”. They offer more dramatic styling’s in “Aria of Karmika”, and build on tradition with “Nayana” and “No Rest For The Wicked”. The band sets the stage for a tender intimate moment with “Sanctuary” before launching into skull-crushing guitars to carry the track out.
For the process of the album’s inception, producer Kevin Churko (Rob Zombie, Five Finger Death Punch, Ozzy Osbourne) was brought in to assist in delivering precise songs heavy with emotion. The release has an intentionally grand-scale dynamic, magnifying the glories of the genre and making its mark as ‘arena’ rather than ‘garage’ rock.
In the fall of 2013, the life of Kobra Paige and her band will be chronicled for the show “Rock City”, which will air on Spike TV. The eight episode season will follow the grit, drama, and thrills, both on the road and off, as this emerging metal band takes to the road on their world tour.
Formed in 2009, Kobra And The Lotus have been more than busy touring Canada, the UK and Europe extensively with ball-busting hard work and intensity that secured coveted slots at Hellfest, Wacken Open Air, Download and Bloodstock in 2012.
In short, heavy metal has a New Face. A New Voice. A New Name. Kobra And The Lotus.
In support of their new album, Kobra And The Lotus are headed out on an extensive North American tour with Fear Factory. The carnage starts April 14 in Colorado Springs, CO, and visits Canada for one stop, April 24, at Toronto's Opera House.
SIMMONS RECORDS/UME RECORDING ARTIST
Kobra And The Lotus make their major label American debut April 16th
Join Fear Factory Tour April 14
Their Own “ROCK CITY” TV Show Premieres On SPIKE TV In September
Kobra And The Lotus make their major label debut with their self-titled album KOBRA AND THE LOTUS on April 16, 2013, on Simmons Records/T-Boy Records/Universal Music Enterprises (UME).
Formed in 2009 by powerhouse vocalist Kobra Paige, Kobra And The Lotus have been more than busy touring Canada, the UK and Europe extensively with ball-busting hard work and intensity that secured coveted slots at Hellfest, Wacken Open Air, Download and Bloodstock in 2012.
The life of Kobra Paige and her band Kobra And The Lotus, will be chronicled for the show “Rock City,” airing on Spike TV, Fall 2013. Their 8 episode season will follow the grit, drama, and thrills, both on the road and off, as this emerging metal band takes to the road on their world tour.
Featuring female metal warrior Kobra Paige on lead vocals, Jasio Kulakowski on guitar, Pete Dimov on bass and Griffin Kissack on drums, the band recently added Latin America’s most famous metal axeman Charlie Parra del Riego.
For Kobra And The Lotus’ self-titled release, producer Kevin Churko (Rob Zombie, Five Finger Death Punch, Ozzy Osbourne) was brought in to assist delivering precise songs heavy with emotion. The Kobra and The Lotus release has an intentionallygrand-scale dynamic, magnifying the glories of the genre and making its mark as ‘arena’ rather than ‘garage’ rock.
The band is co-signed to Gene Simmons’ label - Simmons’ Records. Simmons has a longstanding reputation for discovering, assisting or recognizing new artists like Van Halen. Many of the early artist demos he worked on or helped with have gone on to become multi-platinum records and legendary rock anthems.
Andy Gould, head and curator of T-Boy Records, recognized Kobra’s talent and his newly minted T-Boy Records will serve as the umbrella label for Kobra And The Lotus. T-Boy Records releases new music and albums from established iconic hard-rock bands. Current releases include Rob Zombie’s Venomous Rat Regeneration Vendor (due April 23) and Megadeth’s Super Collider (due June 4). Gould adds, “It’s great to have a fresh act on the label that is carrying on all the best heavy metal traditions. And of course, it’s fantastic to be in business with Gene [Simmons].”
KOBRA AND THE LOTUS packs a powerful 10-track punch featuring the multi-range wailing vocals of metal hellion Kobra Paige, with infectious harmonies and sweeping choruses over powerful metal riffs, thundering bass and rapid fire percussion.KOBRA AND THE LOTUS contains driving anthems “50 Shades of Evil,” “Welcome To My Funeral,” “My Life” and “Forever One,” more dramatic stylings in “Aria of Karmika,” and they build on tradition with “Nayana” and “No Rest For The Wicked”. The band sets the stage for a tender intimate moment with “Sanctuary” before launching into skull-crushing guitars to carry the track out.
In support of their new album, Kobra And The Lotus will now take on America with an extensive North American tour supporting Fear Factory. The carnage starts April 14 in Colorado Springs, CO winding throughout the U.S. and Canada conquering this continent one face-melting show at a time.
Mar 15th-
This week was the premiere of The Envy’s new track & video for “Music To My Ears”. http://www.theenvymusic.com
The video is currently featured on vevo.com and was also feature on the homepage of MTV.ca this Wednesday. Screen grabs below.
The track is impacting radio now and received 2 adds this week (Wolf Regina / Rock Oshawa)
This is a solid song and video, please check it out and share where you can! - http://vevo.ly/XFlrIT
Jan 30th-
Jan 26th-
Here's a photo from England's Kerrang magazine, featuring Kobra And The Lotus in the ‘Bands To Look Out For in 2013’ composite feature.
Pretty cool!
Dec 22nd-
KISS legend GENE SIMMONS has checked in with the following update.
"KOBRA AND THE LOTUS on Simmons/Universal played an industry show at the Whiskey in Los Angeles. They killed it. Amazing musicianship. Tight as a razor. Killer vocals by Kobra Paige. The fans went nuts."
Attending were Universal Records' Bruce Resnikoff and his team, Araca head Michael Rego, whose company produces B'way shows JERSEY BOYS and WICKED. Eric Singer came down. And India Allen was there. Her production entity is producing Rock City (Spike), which will feature a full season of Kobra And The Lotus. Coming in the New Year."
A photo gallery from Kobra And The Lotus's December 20th show at the Whiskey is available
here.
Dec 21st-
On the eighth day of Christmas Spinefarm gave to me... An exclusive Christmas message from Kobra And The Lotus!
While touring the UK, Kobra And The Lotus popped by the Spinefarm offices to do a couple of interviews and record you guys a 'Merry Metal Christmas' ...well they attempted to anyway...
Dec 19th-
Kobra and the Lotus. It was actually a struggle to put into words the sheer awesomeness of this band and, in particular, lead singer Kobra Paige so I’ll try and keep it technical.
Having recently released their self-titled album, Kobra and the Lotus, the band are currently touring Europe with their new material and bringing their distinct musical vision to crowds all over. The Canadian group’s sound has often been referred to as classic NWOBHM (New Wave of British Heavy Metal) with comparisons to bands such as Iron Maiden but though such influences are clearly present, Kobra and the Lotus very much forge their own path and represent a highly original sound that has been produced with bucketloads of talent.
With a hugely heavy opening, announcing their arrival on the stage and into the memories of all those watching, the band kicked off into a set that highlighted them as a band to watch and one with which has been very helpful in adding to my Spotify playlist.
The band is still relatively new, particularly in its current incarnation, but they play like veterans and display a musical talent and a union that is impressive considering the so far short life of the band.
The immediate impact was that of the furious drumming of the impressively named Lord Griffin Kissack, an original band member since 2009, that is indicative of the drive behind Kobra and the Lotus and delivered a heaviness that was grounded in the incredibly tight bass work of Ben Freud, band member since 2011, who managed to give both an incredible rhythm to the heaviness while also maintaining the low end rumble that is required of metal band bass work.
On top of this were the powerful melodies of guitarists Jasio Kulakowski and Charlie Parra del Riego, both joined the band this year, which aided in delivering the strong emotional currents that ran consistently throughout the set. There were also some epic guitar solos showcasing the full ability of the guitarists.
But highest praise must go to Kobra herself. With a voice so powerful it was damn near operatic, Kobra controlled the stage, showing that despite the male dominated metal scene, women are just as capable and in this case more capable than men of delivering full throttle metal. It was a shame that voice wasn’t used to interact with the crowd more, but with such a high class performance this concern faded swiftly into the background as another anthem was ripped out of the speakers.
Dec 13th-
Simmons/Universal recording artists KOBRA & THE LOTUS will be making their Los Angeles debut for the industry and friends.
Please come and see what all the excitement is all about.
KOBRA & THE LOTUS
DATE: December 20th, 2012
TIME: 8:00 PM sharp
Whiskey A Go Go
8901 Sunset Blvd
West Hollwood, CA
Dec 2nd-
Check out this Envy tattoo from a real fan.
Nov 22nd-
Kobra & The Lotus's next feature in Metal Hammer magazine!
An epic event. Kobra Paige & Doro Pesch. 2 metal queens together!
Nov 19th-
I fully realize that this is an album review, which usually means an all-encompassing review of the whole thing, but I’m going to focus on the single “Music To My Ears” because it pretty well explains this band and the rest of the record, so we’ll call it context.
When I sit down to write something I try to challenge myself to only write solid single sentences, that is sentences that are strong enough to stand alone as statements in an of themselves. I don’t always succeed at the first try, but that being said, I like a band that makes an effort to do the same.
When most every line in a song has the right words in it so much so that you wish you had of thought of it yourself, someone’s written lyrics that speak. The point of a song like “Music To My Ears” is really to sum up the feeling of being restless, undefeatable, and absolutely alive, that so naturally defines each of us in our youth.
When I was 20-years-old I wanted nothing more than to stand out in the cold air, in the darkness, on the balcony of a friend’s apartment, high on love and drinking to get drunk, so we could conquer the night cause that’s what you fucking do. You do whatever, whenever because it feels good, and cause youth and city lights are such a wonderfully catalytic combination.
I love that there is a Foo Fighters reference smack in the middle of the second verse, and that I instantly get a knot in the pit of my stomach because I’ve had that experience too.
So like I said, if the lyrics are good and the music is just really complimentary, like I’m talking coffee is to a cigarette, and it gives people the feeling, in this case, it’s that great airy, soaring feeling that is rarely matched by things that aren’t good music, well then you’re on to something.
This is a really killer first single for The Envy, and it’s a good gage for the rest of the Conception EP as well. My personal preference lies with a song called “Food For Worms”, it’s got a 90’s sort of industrial rock feel to it and it’s anchored by this sentiment: “all we are is what we make, but what you build in this life you can’t take, all you leave behind confirms, we are more than food for worms.”
Nov 13th-
Deception/Conception is a balance of work like Ying and Yang. The Fingers crossed sign should have a Ying and Yang symbol in the middle of the palm.
What a great Summer and Fall from THE ENVY. The Conception EP is like Christmas Day when your parents tell you to look in the driveway and there is a convertible parked in the driveway with a red bow around it. A pure Musical gift! Take the Top down and let the pure energy run through your speakers, The Light now shines on Conception, New release from 2.0 version of THE ENVY....Let's take a ride.......
MUSIC TO MY EARS: A high powered Jam starting with a driving beat that grabs the senses. The song reflects on the hard times but sees the sun shining and nothing can hold THE ENVY back while adjusting change. The Band seems determined and this shines throughout the entire song. Uplifting with a new understanding of the direction the band is now headed. A tune that will stay in your head throughout the day. A great Chorus goes a long way and THE ENVY has mastered that Conception!
MIDNIGHT MESSIAH: Is another Jam that takes a stab at understanding that some WILL tell you ANYthing to show you their worth. Whomever THE ENVY is talking about better understand that you are more understood by them than you think you are. A really well Written song with a message that plays to a New Birth or release from believing in those who think they have your best interest in heart but wants to shoulder your success. A real awakening for those who wants to deal with THE ENVY 2.0.
BLEACH: Another uptempo goodie, upbeat and positive. Just when you thought that this EP could not get any better, this song makes you feel good about apologizing. VOID does his usual mastery of sounds, he is a true Wizard! No Bleach can hide the true talent in this group.
FOOD FOR WORMS: THE ENVY went in a whole different direction here. Key Signature changes and other movements. Someone in this band has some classical training. Normally, when you put so much together, one would think that something like this would not work. But FOOD FOR WORMS works perfectly back and forth with several changes. This may be the best song on the whole EP. The BASS player and VOID get wicked! Not only that, how in the world and THE ENVY make you feel positive about being FOOD FOR WORMS? Well they had put a positive spin on dying! Incredible huh?
YOU'RE THE SEX: Did I speak to soon? A INSTANT HIT!! this song will make you hit repeat so many times, you will need to recharge your IPOD. VOID adds his usual perfect solo's and SHAUN's classic voice and this song is a MEGA hit. No doubt I spoke to soon. This is the best, I'm so confused now, this EP keeps climbing higher! SKIN ON SKIN: this classic reminds me why I love THE ENVY! When I heard this live in Bristol, VA. I told my wife we were witnessing the next HAll of Famers. I still believe that! This song has to be the most requested release from ANY ENVY fan. This is a true BONUS that we as fans can never thank you enough for giving us. Just like the song ending with the crowd chanting...THE ENVY...THE ENVY.....
This EP leaves you wanting more! Conception completes the full circle of Ying and Yang. THE ENVY 2.0 is now complete.
Nov 8th-
Oct 22nd-
New Kobra And The Lotus video 50 Shades Of Evil is live, and it’s right here!
50 Shades Of Evil is taken from the band’s self-titled album, out now via Spinefarm.
The video was directed by Lisa Mann, who has already worked with the likes of Apocalyptica and The Used.
“It was an honor to work with a director who is as exceptional as Lisa Mann,” says singer Kobra Paige. “Not only is she passionate, she is a true visionary. Throughout the whole experience she never ceased to amaze us. Lisa’s creative flow is not only boundless it is dynamic and organic. Her consistent level of enthusiasm charged the whole team.”
Sept 27th-
For all you European fans of true heavy metal - get ready for Kobra & The Lotus. On tour with Steel Panther.
Sept 5th-
To celebrate the release of their new self-titled album, Kobra & the Lotus played a one off show at The Borderline, London on August 13th.
Last minute shoots always bring unexpected surprises, none more so than my most recent shoot at The Borderline in London. I only had a couple of hours warning of this gig; enough time to rush home, grab my gear and head off to the venue.
The Borderline is one of London’s most iconic live venues and I enjoy the atmosphere of this underground club, its sound is pretty good, as are the stage lights (Very important when it comes to shooting bands).
Kobra And The Lotus; knowing nothing about them before the gig other than that they were a Female fronted band… I didn’t even know that they were Canadian… Well once their set started, they blew my mind, Kobra Paige has the striking looks of Shakira combined with the vocal range of Rob Halford or Bruce Dickinson, and their guitarists produced blistering guitar solos that sent shivers up my spine. I haven’t enjoyed shooting a gig as much in a long time, I even found myself head banging away after I had finished shooting. Their 3rd song “Welcome to my funeral” is immediately catchy and I can see why it was their choice for a single. I look forward to their return to the UK soon.
Kobra and the Lotus are one of Bloodstock‘s hidden gems this year, bringing an old school metal approach to the gathered masses on Sunday morning, the band wastes none of their short set time but rather rose and unleashed a metal storm, making many new friends in the process.
Fronted by the lovely and somewhat enigmatic Kobra Paige, the band is all Judas Priest riffs wrapped around a Doro centric front woman, its a formula that works well for them, and translates well live. The great thing about Kobra and the Lotus is that in a weekend full with blood, fire and all kinds of other gimmickry, this band resorts to none of the above, instead allowing the music and their own energy to speak for itself.
The band has a confidence and tightness that belies their young age, they have obviously spent the last couple of years honing their craft, making sure that when the time was right so the Kobra could strike with maximum effect and that is exactly what they do.
It's a tough act, being a fairly unknown band, having to open the main stage of a festival on the last day when everyone is either tired or hungover or in most cases both, but this seems to pass right by Kobra and the Lotus who turn in a set that will one day see them ascend to the level of headliner, tracks like ‘Welcome to My Funeral’ and ’50 Shades of Evil’. These and other tracks show the greatness this band already possesses whilst hinting at the heights they will no doubt reach further down the line.
Kobra and the Lotus are going to go on to be a world class band at this rate, and everyone here can say that they witnessed the band come of age right before their very eyes.
Aug 14th-
Aug 14th-
Kobra and The Lotus have been chosen by Media Markt (Germany’s Biggest Retailer,) to be in the “Neue Helden, neuer Sound” campaign for late August. This means “New Heroes, New Sounds.”
The album will be featured on their homepage for two weeks from next week on.
Aug 12th-
Aug 10th-
You can describe the band Kobra and the Lotus in one word. Metal! That’s it. If you want to know what genre or sub-genre to put them in, their self-titled debut album is about as metal as it gets. Hailing from Canada Kobra and the Lotus is a band that fans who have a love for pure metal, should seek out.
There are a growing number of current bands who are bringing metal back to its purest form, but with all due respect to some great bands; in fact it is a great movement in the genre but you would be hard pressed to find a band better than Kobra and the Lotus. They have also received attention from Kiss’ fire breathing demon Gene Simmons who signed them to his label. Kobra and the Lotus’ debut album is a relentless metal extravaganza from the word go and the opening track "50 Shades of Evil".
Lead vocalist Kobra Paige has such a huge voice that has so much power behind it that it is right there in-your-face and impossible not to feel it – her metal-ness cannot be denied. Also impressive is the songwriting and the guitar work from Timothy Vega and Jasio Kulakowski. Next is the grinding "Welcome to my Funeral". The final song is the blistering "Ana of Karmika" which features a galloping Iron Maiden feel to it musically and end things with a bang. The 10-songs on display here are laced with heavy riffs, some great melodic moments and just a huge sound that does more than pay homage to metal of the past – sure those Judas Priest and Iron Maiden influences are there (they have also been compared to the NWOBHM movement, but I don’t really hear it), but the material is far beyond a band that is simply paying respect to their hero’s. Kobra and the Lotus deliver the songs with such sincerity and ferocity. They are the real deal.
Highlights include: "Forever One", "Heaven’s Veins", "Sanctuary" and "No Rest For the Wicked". There is really not much more to say about Kobra and the Lotus except for the fact that this is not only the best debut I have heard all year but in a number of years. Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love all of the different styles of metal I am exposed to with this gig – and I have had the pleasure of being exposed to many, many great bands, but sometimes it is easy to become jaded, then along comes a band like Kobra and the Lotus who re-ignites my excitement in metal and music in general. This album did it for me.
Rating - 98/100
Aug 9th-
Whoever said “anticipation is half the fun” either is a big, fat liar or was not waiting for Kobra and the Lotus’s self-titled album. No, actually having Kobra and the Lotus is both halves of the fun! It is no secret that massive, full-throated voices are right down my alley. Couple Kobra Paige’s impressive pipes with muscular (yet nimble) guitar work, and you have a positively killer album in the finest NWOBHM tradition.
Sonic Cathedral’s Robin Stryker sat down with Kobra Paige for one of her first in-depth interviews. Dive in for Kobra’s take on the evolution of Kobra and the Lotus, being signed to Gene Simmons’ label, ginormous snakes, and much more!
Robin: Sonic Cathedral is so happy to welcome Kobra Paige, from the Canadian metal band, Kobra and the Lotus! Kobra, for our readers who will be discovering your band for the first time with your upcoming album, would you give them an introduction to what they are in for?
Kobra: Yeah, I’d love to! Well, this album is the first introduction that we feel has the proper representation of our sound -- the sound that we really want to move towards and evolve towards. It’s very old-school, but it’s not. It has got our own elements of, I guess, what we take to the table. (laughs) I always have trouble describing actually the album. I would say that, if you’re a fan of heavier riffage but that classic soaring vocal melody line and dual lead guitars going on, then this is the kind of album that you will probably enjoy.
Robin: Kobra and the Lotus has been on my watch-list since 2010, but what really sold me on the band was the video for “Welcome to My Funeral,” which is like a mini-movie. What is going on with the storyline of the video?
Kobra: It’s quite dramatic! That story is actually surrounding the topic of self-sabotage and really digging your own hole. It happens many times to a lot of people (myself included), where you can actually sabotage your outcome or your path or whatever you’re moving towards accomplishing by having fear and eating away at yourself. You can just shoot yourself right in the foot by doing that.
So I wrote “Welcome to My Funeral,” which is saying that you are digging your own grave, and it can be interpreted in a lot of different ways. I mean, whatever way you are digging your own grave, whether it be substance abuse or emotional abuse … just something negatively influencing your ambition to move forward through life and LIVE full of life.
So yeah, in that video, I’m directing my own funeral, which is pretty creepy. I close the coffin on myself, and there is kind of the character of myself where I’ve lost my mind and am standing at the pew saying “welcome to my funeral!” Then there’s the part of me that is still alive, but it’s going to the funeral. And then of course, there is just me -- the everyday me -- and there’s a performance. I kind of grabbed all those aspects and put it into one, but it’s the same person.
Robin: It seemed like a bold move for Kobra and the Lotus, who were unsigned, to come out with a rather elaborate video for an album that did not yet have a release date. What was your over-arching thought in doing that?
Kobra: Our motive was to really start getting the new sound out there. We were ready to play the material (even though it wasn’t released yet), and we were just DYING to give people something new to listen to. It was very exciting to hopefully show an evolution in the sound. So we thought it was a great idea to release a taster, as in showing the world kind of what was going to be expected and the direction we were going to take. I think it was an important move for us, and actually, it shifted a lot after that. The momentum kind of picked up more after that video, which was really interesting.
Robin: If I’m not mistaken, that video certainly caught the attention of (among others) Gene Simmons.
Kobra: Yeah, it was pretty wild! That was kind of an intriguing way that it came about because the Universal A&R rep had taken our album that we had with “Welcome to My Funeral” on it to Gene Simmons, thinking he’d be interested. He just loved it, I guess, so now we are working with him. But man, it was a pretty wild series of events … we didn’t see that coming! We were on tour at the time, and our manager sent us the email with his voice -- sent us the phone call, so we could listen to it. It was kind of surreal like: “Is this a joke?! I don’t know.”
Robin: (laughs) Tell me truthfully, if Susan had just sent you an email saying “hey, Gene Simmons loves it” and didn’t send the recording of his voice, would you have believed it?
Kobra: NO, definitely not!!! I would have probably thought, “Oh sure, this is just something that’s been twisted through the grapevine,” which happens a lot every day through all areas of life. (laughs) So there’s no way I would have believed it. But we would have probably ended up meeting him when we got home, so that’s kind of what made it more real.
With it's typical levels effervescent glee, ability to ham up their performances and constant spreading of nostalgia of the days when music was kick-ass, maybe there's more than one reason why modern bands that try and play like Iron Maiden are looked upon with glazed eyes and gritted teeth. But this generally comes from bands that just turn up on stage and basically copy Maiden. It's when a band can take the style, truly pull it off and make it sound as up-to-date and relevant as ever that it's worth shouting about. And so comes Kobra and the Lotus, a band who have been gaining a sturdy following over the past few months who are serious about their heavy metal. And on their self titled album, they most definitely prove this to be the truth.
All to often bands that try this style have been rejected, deemed to be a supposed parody act. Even 3 Inches of Blood, a band that constantly speak of their devotion to playing heavy metal as it should sound have been branded as something of a novelty act. But with Kobra and the Lotus, you get a different feeling from how they play. The level of rising drama amongst raw metallic beatdowns makes the album a fully straight faced affair without then going fully melodramatic and overblown to the extent that it becomes like a Rhapsody of Fire album.
"Pounding" is a good way to describe the kind of experience the band will give you throughout the album. Straight from the opening of 50 Shades of Evil, the super-charged riffage from Jasio Kulkowski bursts into action with a massive level of urgency and delirious passion. With ease, it sums up the sort of energy and intensity that has fueled metal music since the NWOBHM took charge of the genre in the 1980's.
And despite the obvious reminiscence to the likes of Iron Maiden and Dio, Kobra and the Lotus also manage to make their sound just as up-to-date and relevant as any metalcore band that copies each other can do. The guitar work of Nayana is just as reminiscent of Lamb of God as it is of Iced Earth. It's through the use of breakdowns and Pantera-esque grooves that Forever One and My Life that gives the album the sound of something entirely modern as well as a fitting replica of trad metal.
But of course, Kobra and the Lotus' prime weapon is their frontwoman Kobra Paige for eye candy. her powerful vocal performance, giving her the sound of a female Bruce Dickinson. Bursting with the roaring spike of youthful power while also carrying a dustier wisened tone, her performance on the likes of Welcome to My Funeral, Sanctuary and the grand finale of Aria of Karmika are gripping in every sense.
If the recent efforts of bands playing in the spirit of their traditional NWOBHM heroes has been viewed as a joke as of late, then Kobra and the Lotus are sure to give that notion a firm booting up the arse. The band effortlessly perform straight on heavy metal without any kind of over-the-top orchestral backdrops or layers of camp cheesiness. What the band deliver is a performance that fits in well with any other metal release from 1983, but still leaps out with a modern depth and relevance. And that's exactly what's required if newly made classic heavy metal is going to be taken seriously.
2 years have ticked by since Canada’s Kobra and the Lotus released their “Out of the Pit” debut. Not content to rest on laurels, KATL have been honing their craft and developing their song-writing for this eponymous album. Featuring three new members, this is a heavy metal extravaganza and everyone is invited to the party.
Mistress of ceremonies, Kobra Paige, is a lead singer of outstanding natural ability. The press release calls her a powerhouse. While this is true, it is only part of her talent. At the lower end of her register, her voice is full, booming and awash with vibrato. At the higher end, she exercises unrivalled control of pitch and tone. This is a voice that has the capability of filling an arena, yet in tranquil moments there is sincerity and tenderness that enthrals and mesmerizes.
KATL mean business and “50 Shades of Evil” kicks proceedings into gear with ear jarring arpeggios, immediately highlighting a focused intensity in the vein of Iced Earth and Judas Priest. “Welcome to My Funeral” is a stomp, a march and a summoning, as Kobra declares “That night the earth stood still / screaming in silence”. The opening of “Forever One” echoes Iron Maiden with its choral harmony, and it’s easy to see why it was chosen as one of the first video promos. Twin lead harmonies and alternating licks abound in every corner of every track on the album. The musicianship, from the skills of shredders Timothy Vega and Jasio Kulakowski to the ultra-tight rhythm secrion of Pete Dimov abd Griffin Kissackon, is sharper than a bag of razor blades.
“Heaven’s Veins” has to be the next single. This is an unforgettable moment on the album with the harrowing refrain of “I Awaken”. This tune has quality stamped all over it. “Nayana” is one of the standout tracks. A riff-tastic headbanger that begs the crowd to join the beckoning Kobra as she affirms “Nayana, No one will ever see through my eyes/ Nayana, you have yours, these eyes are mine”. In “Sanctuary”, the piano accompanied intro portrays isolation and loneliness before the riff machine kicks in. With the greatest respect, through “Sanctuary”, KATL channel the essence of Dio at his spell casting best. The metal is unrelenting as “No Rest for the Wicked”, “Lover of the Beloved” and “Calm before the Storm” carry the listener forward on a melodious quest. The closing five minutes of “Aria of Karmika” is an epic soundscape that forges a glorious pathway towards journeys end.
Throughout the album Kobra uses her voice as an instrument, as part of the band, without ever overdoing her piece in a song. While she is a captivating leader with a commanding presence, it is the combined focus of all five members that makes Kobra and the Lotus outshine the myriad of new bands on the scene.
Kobra and the Lotus’ latest release is classic heavy metal for a new generation. With their diligent exuberance, the future of our music is safe.
This album should be packaged with antidote because it’s gonna kill...
Aug 1st-
July 23rd-
July 16th-
Canadian band Kobra and the Lotus have come a long way in the last few years, and in the last few months in particular. The band formed in Calgary towards the end of 2008, and their first UK shows were in November 2009 when they played to a handful of people. Their debut album, "Out of the pit" has always been hard to track down in the UK but is well worth the effort of tracking down a copy.
Over the last two and a half years the band have had lineup changes, and have worked their asses off touring as many places as possible including gigs all over the UK as they built up a fanbase. They've played the Hard Rock Hell festival twice as well as the Hard Rock Hell Road Trip in Ibiza, and as well as touring non stop they found time to record a second album, the self titled "Kobra and the Lotus". Once the album was recorded they set out to find a good record deal and were quickly signed by Gene Simmons to his own label after he beat off competition from other major labels.
Whether you're a fan of KISS or not, most people agree on one thing - Gene Simmons certainly knows what he's doing when it comes to making money, and given his reputation for financial matters coupled with his experience in the music industry over the last 3 decades or so, for him to sign Kobra and the Lotus to his label means that he has recognised some talent here that he thinks will go a long way (and make him more money in the process). I think he's made a wise choice - Kobra and the lotus clearly have the talent needed, they're prepared to work hard to succeed, and they've made an excellent record here.
In the last few months the band have been doing amazingly well - they've supported bands including Judas Priest and played major festivals across Europe including Download, Hellfest, Graspop, Sonisphere (Spain), Metaltown and Gods of Metal, and have been announced for Bloodstock later this summer. With all these festival appearances then interest in the new album is bound to be high.
Canadian metallers Kobra and the Lotus never seem to stop. They’ve been appearing at various different festivals, doing major tours not just in their own country but beyond and STILL they’ve had time to pull together that difficult second album simply titled “Kobra and the Lotus”.
I’m an old school metal boy at heart, and Kobra sure know how to pull on those old heart-strings of mine as the album just screams of nostalgia and the days of my youth getting into metal for the first time. That’s not to say by any stretch of the imagination that the album sounds dated. It may have NWOBHM influences and even styles of European speed and power metal shining through but it doesn’t desecrate the past or cheapen it but use it as a solid base to build on, to grow, to expand on and create metal that gets the blood and the fists pumping in support!
The album carries a middle eastern feel throughout it, both in playing style and vocals. Kobra’s voice reminds me of Laura Donnelly from Edinburgh band Firebrand Super Rock. Both bands a great example of a sassy, powerful, leading lady. There’s shades of Rob Halford in places, Michael Kiske, Andi Deris and most notably to me, the queen of metal herself, Doro Pesch. Don’t think this band is all about Kobra’s voice though, she’s simply the sweet spot that brings each song together to make this a fantastic second album.
So what is it about the album that’s getting my old school bones tingling? Well, “50 shades of evil” kicks the whole thing off and I mean KICKS, with a power metal vibe that harkens back to halcyon days of late 80s/early 90s metal at its height. The song has a very European feel to it. It’s like listening to Keeper part 1 for the first time before “Welcome to my Funeral” follows on with a wonderful middle eastern vibe bringing to mind Maiden’s “Nomad” crossed with Metallica’s “Wherever I May Roam”. The atmospheric keys throughout the second half of the track give this four-minute song a hugely epic feel.
“Forever One” continues this, what is to become very prominent throughout the album, middle eastern flavour and power before smacking you with some great guitar melody over the verses. The melody in this one really reminds me of early Helloween. It could be part two of the previous track they segue so wonderfully. It’s suitably anthemic.
Like a breath of fresh air, Kobra & The Lotus bring an almighty bang to the party. Their sophomore self-titled album collects more of the Rob Halford essence and twists it with some savage female vocals and sensational musical composition. The thing about this band is that they stick to the basics, add some fruitful pinches of differences here and there and result in having their album branded as being in the top 10 of the most exciting releases of 2012. Boy Kobra can hit the high notes and with her mesmerising compatriots in tow, the metal world is sure to shake to the sound of Canadian Heavy Metal, this is the end of humanity for we all know it; simply Rock 'n' Roll.
July 5th-
Kobra Paige. She writes the songs and sings 'em and has a killer band with her. Kobra & The Lotus. Proudly, on Simmons/Universal Records.
Thank you Metal Hammer.
July 1st-
July 1st-
Here are Kobra & The Lotus.
You will be hearing a lot of them in the coming months.
'Forever One' music video:
Festival performance footage:
July 1st-
Canadian metallers KOBRA AND THE LOTUS have posted a four-and-a half-minute clip featuring behind-the-scenes footage from their recent European trip. Check it out below.
KOBRA AND THE LOTUS will release its new album in the U.K. on August 6. The CD's first single, "Forever One", preceded the full-length effort on May 28.
KOBRA AND THE LOTUS last year inked a deal with KISS bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons' revived Simmons Records label via a partnership with Universal Music Canada. Simmons confirmed the signing on his Twitter profile, calling KOBRA AND THE LOTUS "real metal."
KOBRA AND THE LOTUS' debut album, "Out Of The Pit", produced by Kevin Shirley, was launched in March 2010. In the following 16 months, the band performed 168 gigs, across five countries, including seven festival stages. The second album was produced by Kevin Churko (FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, OZZY OSBOURNE), along with Julius "Juice" Butty. A video for the song "Welcome To My Funeral" points to an undisputed evolution in the band; the music is stronger, meaner and heavier.
"Touring for 'Out Of The Pit' had a huge influence on us in terms of realizing which direction we wanted the new music to take," says singer Brittany Paige. "We really wanted to create new music that would portray the large amount of energy we put forward in a live performance."
Professionally filmed video footage of KOBRA AND THE LOTUS performing the song "Heaven's Veins" at this year's edition of the Download festival, which was held June 8-10 at Donington Park in Leicestershire, United Kingdom, can be seen below.
Behind-the-scenes footage:
Festival performance footage:
June 14th-
Hey Gene,
Just out of curiosity, I clicked on the Kobra and the Lotus banner on your site and much to my surprise, I discovered a helluva band!! Quite frankly, I didn't expect something as heavy, but more something similar to the dozens of bands that you can hear on the radio everyday. Bands you immediately forget once you heard them!
Good call, signing them Gene! They truly are amazing and they might very well be the next big thing on the metal scene! In fact, I'm sure they WILL be the next big metal band! Their Iced Earth influences allied to their powerful singer can appeal as much to those who like high quality metal as to those who dig great female vocals!
Please keep us informed on their activities, and let me know what I could do in order to promote them here, in France. I'd sure like to see them live!
Until then, I'm going to buy their single on iTunes!
Keep on rockin', Gene! Can't wait for Monster!
FRED
June 12th-
May 31st-
Here is Simmons/Universal recording artist Kobra Paige, who writes the songs and fronts KOBRA & THE LOTUS. Their first album is coming out this summer.
Already on tour in Europe doing all the big festivals and playing alongside Metallica, Judas Priest and others.
And it has begun. Kobra & The Lotus, Simmons/Universal band is getting huge buzz... currently opening for Judas Priest in England and playing the metal festivals...
May 23rd-
Simmons/Universal act, Kobra And The Lotus is currently being featured on the Vevo Canada homepage.
May 23rd-
Simmons/Universal act, Kobra And The Lotus have been voted into Classic Rock Magazines ‘Track Of The Week’ for ‘Forever One’.
May 21st-
Kiss’ Gene Simmons liked Kobra And The Lotus so much, he signed them to his label, Simmons Records. Come inside to find out if you agree with The Demon’s twisted tastebuds.
Track: Kobra And The Lotus – Forever One
For fans of: scary, pierced-lip, fist-pumping, headbanging frenzy (along with a smidgeon of Judas Priest-like pomposity)
Kobra And The Lotus – the five-piece Canadian group fronted by the mildly aggressive Kobra Paige – will release their debut, self-titled album for Simmons Records (via Spinefarm) on August 6.
Forever One, the lead single/video from the new album, will be released digitally on May 28 – and you can get a sneak preview below.
Trust us when we say it’s a classic heavy metal video – in the best possible hair-flailing, teeth-baring, standing-in-the-window-of-a-ruined-castle sense.
Kobra And The Lotus will be coming to the UK to guest with both Judas Priest and Guns N’ Roses in late May; they then appear at the Download Festival in June.
May 17th-
Simmons/Universal Records is proud to announce the signing of Kobra & The Lotus. There is more metal per square inch on their debut album, as the Gods in heaven can endure.
Led by Kobra Paige, who writes and performs the songs, this band will destroy all in its path.
Kobra & The Lotus are currently touring Europe, opening for the likes of Judas Priest and Guns N' Roses, as well as playing all the major Euro Festivals.
Keep your eyes peeled for this very important band.
Feb 19th-
Jan 17th-
The Envy responds to the 5 people 1 guitar video with a video of their own. Watch The Envy cover Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used To Know”, 1 guy... 5 Guitars!!
Jan 5th-
This year promises to be an exciting year in music with a scheduled return of Van Halen, a possible 50th anniversary tour from the Rolling Stones and a couple artists we’ve yet to meet. From international stars to breakout artists from Canada and around the world, here’s the RockStar Weekly Top 12 RockStars To Watch For In 2012:
2. The Envy
Having signed with Simmons Records in 2011, Canadian rockers The Envy have teased fans with music from their upcoming debut album throughout the year and at gigs opening for KISS and Finger Eleven. The highly anticipated debut is currently being recorded in Los Angeles and should be released sometime this year
The Envy is the #2 Band To Watch... also on the list are the Rolling Stones #3, Rush #7 and Van Halen #4.
Hello, everyone
My name is Kristy, and I'm the Webmistress here at SimmonsRecords.com....
Hey..... you..... yes you. Who else would i be talking to? If you have tried to submit a demo via an email message that goes something like: "Hey! i have this band you are going to love, let me know if you want me to send a demo" then please keep reading. For those that kindly follow the instructions, you may be on your merry way, and thank you.
You're not following the instructions (read above for instructions)
We appreciate you taking the time to email in, but, if you dont follow the instructions (and a lot of you have not)... then you lose. Asking us if we want to see your demo is a bit silly you see, we've quite clearly told you (above) that we want your demos.
We will not chase after you. Nor will we do your job for you. If you are serious about your career, then you will force feed your demo to us, not ask us if we want it.
LOS ANGELES - (BUSINESS WIRE) - Kobra And The Lotus make their major label debut with their self-titled album KOBRA AND THE LOTUS on April 16, 2013, on Simmons Records/T-Boy Records/Universal Music Enterprises (UME).
10 April 2013 (Toronto) – Female metal warrior Kobra Paige, along with guitarist Jasio Kulakowski, bassist Pete Dimov and drummer Griffin Kissack of Kobra And The Lotus are set to make their self-titled, major label debut on Tuesday, April 16TH via Simmons Records/T-Boy Records/Universal Music Canada, the country’s leading music company. 
