Varaha Releasing Debut Self-Titled EP

Chicago-based atmospheric metal collective Varaha will release a self-titled, debut EP later this month. Recorded by Nick Morgan and Mike Lust and mixed and mastered by Adam K. Stilson at Decade Music Studios, the stunning three tracks comprising the EP includes guest appearances by Bruce Lamont (Yakuza, Corrections House, Brain Tentacles et al) on saxophone and Josie Boyer (Round Rock Symphony Orchestra) on cello.

Varaha is the boar manifestation of Indian god Vishnu, who lifts the earth from underneath the ocean. In guitarist/vocalist Fabio Brienza's interpretation, Varaha symbolizes not only rebirth, but also strength, passion, and struggle.

"Art and birth were never supposed to be subtle or polite," Brienza notes. "Interestingly, 'Varaha' is also very similar to the Spanish word 'Baraja,' -- the cards that you've been dealt in life -- and though Varaha and Baraja come from two very different cultures, there exists a strong connection between the etymology of the two words. Almost as if the band name could be both Varaha and Baraja at the same time."

The "Varaha" EP will be released digitally via Bandcamp on December 16th, 2016 with a CD edition to follow in the coming months.

1. Cubicle
2. La Mela
3. It Takes A Ghost To Kill A Ghost