CHONTARAZ: Single SCREAM out Feb 28, long-awaited 3rd Album coming soon!

27.02.2025

Uncompromising Metal – Musical Pandemonium in Perfection

+++ OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE BY CHONTARAZ +++

Norwegian/Greek powerhouse CHONTARAZ resurface from the depths of their origins in Hell (Norway), igniting anticipation among fans of dark, dynamic music with their eagerly anticipated return. Their upcoming third album Phantom of Reality (Release: May 9, 2025) once again transports listeners into the distinctive universe of CHONTARAZ, delivering an immersive and captivating journey through their modern soundscapes and atmospheric storytelling.
Exploring the theme of authenticity, the album delves into the journey of embracing one’s true self while rejecting superficiality. Combining dark modern metal and industrial elements, CHONTARAZ masterfully blend intense energy with deep lyrical narratives, ensuring that Phantom of Reality resonates with fans on both a musical and emotional level.

During the production of Phantom of Reality, CHONTARAZ found both a new producer and drummer in the exceptionally talented Fotis Benardo — a seasoned musician renowned for his extreme drumming prowess, even gracing the cover of Sick Drummer Magazine. With his visionary approach to metal, Fotis has cemented his reputation through thunderous work with Septicflesh (for whom he wrote some of their most iconic tracks), Sakis Tolis, and other powerhouse projects.
Working together in his studio in Athens, the chemistry between the musicians was immediate and undeniable, leading Fotis (aka Narwhal) to join CHONTARAZ full-time. The result? A game-changing metal collaboration that showcases a groundbreaking fusion of songwriting mastery, elite musicianship, and world-class production — delivering an album that redefines modern metal.
Fotis Benardo’s dual mastery as producer and drummer shaped the sonic landscape of Phantom of Reality, delivering an immersive and crushing soundscape that elevates every track. All this is seamlessly combined with the songwriting brilliance of Ahkon (Herbjørn Anglen) and Chontaraz (Frode Kvarsnes), who together have co-written all the tracks, blending Ahkon’s guitar and bass mastery with Chontaraz’s spellbinding vocal delivery. The result is a sonic explosion: a powerful blend of dark modern metal with industrial elements, seamlessly merged with Fotis' precision and sonic vision. The album achieves a sound that is both raw and refined, brutal and beautiful.

Phantom of Reality also features:

Sakis Tolis (Rotting Christ) as guest vocalist on SCREAM (single release: February 28, 2025)

George Nerantzis, responsible for keys and industrial add-ons on all tracks

Kjetil “DeadBit” Lindløkken on additional keys for Spin The Wheel,
Prayer To The Masses, and Dressed To Kill

Noxaerias (Kostas Mexis) on bass for live performances and music videos

The collaborations result in a fusion of top-tier musicianship, visionary songwriting, and elite production, propelling CHONTARAZ into uncharted territory. With Ahkon and Chontaraz driving the creative vision through their joint songwriting efforts, and Fotis Benardo shaping the sound and rhythm, this is metal at its absolute peak. Brace yourself!

Tracklist for Phantom of Reality

1. Istanbul
2. Prayer To The Masses
3. You’re The One To Blame
4. Phantom Of Reality
5. The Flick Of Time
6. Scream (feat. Sakis Tolis)
7. Face The Fake
8. Spin The Wheel
9. Nail
10. Dressed To Kill
11. Kingpin

Digital album pre-save:
https://orcd.co/phantomofreality

CD & LP presale:
https://chontaraz.com/

Produced by Fotis Benardo, the first single of CHONTARAZ’ Phantom of Reality, SCREAM, is a raw and intense track featuring a guest vocal appearance by Sakis Tolis (Rotting Christ). The song embodies a burning desire and a relentless hunt, blending aggressive energy with soaring, cinematic choruses. With haunting melodies and primal intensity, the dark and visceral music video brings the song’s raw emotions to life. SCREAM is the first of three singles from the upcoming album and will be released on February 28, 2025.