Crown Lands Shares 19-Minute Live Epic

The 19-minute "Apocalypse" is the title track from Crown Lands' upcoming studio album, set for release on May 15, 2026. The album is described as a concept record that moves the story forward from their previous works, *Fearless* and *Rituals*, which exist in the same narrative universe. The band, consisting of Cody Bowles (vocals, drums) and Kevin Comeau (guitar, bass, keys), took near-total control of the production process for this album. For the live performance video of "Apocalypse," directed by Luke Paron, the duo expanded their lineup to fully realize the song's studio ambitions. They enlisted Daniel Walton and Adam Inrig from the band The Dreamland Band to better perform the complex material. The performance is conceptualized as a battle between characters named Blackstar and the Ebonflight, with Bowles embodying the Blackstar character. Crown Lands' sound is heavily influenced by classic prog-rock, with many critics and the band members themselves acknowledging a strong Rush influence. Their music often features complex arrangements, shifting time signatures, and the use of Moog Taurus bass pedals, similar to those used by Rush's Alex Lifeson. The duo's earlier work was more blues-driven before they fully embraced their progressive rock passions. The band, which won a Juno Award for Breakthrough Group of the Year in 2021, often incorporates themes of Indigenous resistance and empowerment into their lyrics and storytelling. Vocalist and drummer Cody Bowles is a reconnecting Mi'kmaq Two Spirit, and their name, "Crown Lands," is a statement on the history of government-held lands stolen from First Nations people. Crown Lands have toured with major acts like KISS, Greta Van Fleet, and Jack White. They are scheduled to tour Canada in 2026, with dates including an appearance on the "Cruise to the Edge" festival in Miami, Florida.