Emerging from the depths of Chicago’s underground metal scene, ÇÖKÜŞ is set to make a powerful debut with their first album, An Hour Of Lies, scheduled for release on September 13th via Qumran Records
ÇÖKÜŞ is the product of a decade-long virtual collaboration between former Earthen Grave bandmates Mark Weiner (vocals), Chris Wozniak (drums), and Jason Muxlow (guitar). Despite being separated by thousands of miles after Earthen Grave’s sudden end in 2013, the trio stayed connected, exchanging riffs, beats, and lyrics from their respective corners of the U.S. Their music draws from classic influences like Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, and Dio, with a nod to ’90s giants such as Soundgarden, Alice In Chains, and Kyuss.
Just before the pandemic, the group began meeting in Chicago to write and record. In 2020, they quietly released a demo under the name WMW, which generated significant buzz among those who heard it. By 2021, they had rebranded as ÇÖKÜŞ, which means “decline” or “collapse” in Turkish, and recruited bassist Patrick Green to finalize the lineup. Shortly after, they welcomed guitarist Steve Ligeza, and the band started performing live.
An Hour Of Lies was recorded across Illinois, Washington, and Texas, with drums and vocals captured by John E. Bohmher, Jr. at Berwyn Recording, bass recorded by Patrick Green, and guitars recorded by Jason Muxlow. The tracks were mixed by Chris Wozniak and mastered by Chris Hanzsek, known for his work with Melvins and Soundgarden. Tom Denney, who has worked with Soilent Green and Weedeater, handled the visual elements, including the album artwork and video content.
The “Midnight Sun” video offers a glimpse into the band’s intense energy, with a storyline described by the band as “a passionate ride under the Moon, where what was revealed shone as bright as a Midnight Sun.” Nine Circles praised the track, noting its “meaty, catchy riffs” reminiscent of Trouble or Pentagram, and highlighting Weiner’s dynamic vocal performance that effortlessly shifts from intense verses to melodic choruses.
An Hour Of Lies will be available on CD and digital platforms starting September 13th. Preorders are open now on Qumran Records’ webshop and Bandcamp. Don’t miss the visualizer for the single “Wolf Moon,” also available for viewing.
An Hour Of Lies Track Listing:1. It Died On The Vine2. As It Falls3. Hit The Mattresses 4. Leave It Behind5. Midnight Sun6. Wolf Moon7. Never Gone8. Hammer To Fall9. It Died On The Vine (Reprise)
ÇÖKÜŞ Band Members:Mark Weiner – VocalsJason Muxlow – GuitarSteve Ligeza – GuitarPatrick Green – BassChris Wozniak – Drums
ÇÖKÜŞ:
Qumran Records:
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