Sumerlands

Sumerlands are a Philadelphia-based heavy metal quintet comprising scene veterans whose sound is rooted in classic power metal from the ’80s and ’90s. Fronted by vocalist Phil Swanson (Hour of 13, Atlantean Kodex), the lineup is rounded out by founder guitarist and renowned producer/engineer Arthur Rizk (War Hungry), drummer Justin De Tore (Devil’s Dare, Boston Strangler), guitarist John Powers, and bassist Brad Raub (both of Leather). Their acclaimed Guardian Demo was issued in the summer of 2014 on Cyclopean Records, followed by regional touring. Sumerlands continued recording with Rizk behind the boards and emerged with their self-titled debut album on Relapse in the fall of 2016. ~ Thom Jurek