Despite being somewhat smaller than Malta, Gozo has never failed to produce a steady stream of musicians, the larger number of them all leaving an indelible mark on the local music scene.

One of the latest arrivals from the sister island is metal band Ascendor. Originally formed in July 2011 by drummer Paul Formosa, the current formation was completed at the turn of 2012, when bassist Blasio Muscat joined Formosa, vocalist Steve Muscat and guitarists Andy Fava and Joe Costa.

Working their way through covers of songs by some of their idols, namely Metallica, Pantera, Slayer, Judas Priest and Megadeth, Ascendor also endeavoured to write their own songs from the get-go.

Their efforts paid off in a relatively short time, with the band’s live performances in Gozo and Malta going down well with the local metal crowd and earning them a solid reputation as a reputable live act. Furthermore, the band has been working on its debut album, Becoming, which is due for release very shortly.

In the Hands of the Enemy is the lead single that the band released a few weeks ago, paving the way for the album. A strong, heavy number, the single has been receiving positive comments all round, largely commending the band’s thrash credentials and musicianship.

A handful of gigs are planned for this year, including an album launch event to be announced soon.

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