I recently had the opportunity to speak with Dean Wolfe as part of his Prog Dog Podcast (now available). Dean also runs a Prog Dog blog where he has reviewed the new Aziola Cry album. 

“The Album Dysphoria Ritual therefore earns a solid 4.5 out of 5 dog bones for its creative, purposeful, and focused thrust, as well as its exploration of the Warr guitar—an instrument that may only just be getting started.”

Read the full review at https://deanwolfechannel.blogspot.com/2026/06/aziola-cry-dysphoria-ritual-album.html?m=1

“Aziola Cry’s new album Dysphoria Ritual is absolutely killer. It’s a band that thrives on tension, momentum, and surprise. The Chicago progressive instrumental trio packs an impressive amount of detail into its compositions, all while the album unfolds with a sense of momentum and clarity across a constantly evolving landscape.

A large part of the album's appeal lies in the chemistry between the players. Jason Blake's Warr Guitar provides both low-end gravitas and melodic elasticity, Mike Milaniak's guitar work moves fluidly between intricate riffs and textured atmospherics, and Tommy Murray's drumming anchors everything with power and finesse.”

Thanks Anil Prasad!

“Technically brilliant, the album is perhaps most remarkable for its expressive power and its ability to make the listener feel uncomfortable and constantly on edge.” Read the full review at profil Aziola Cry Dysphoria Ritual

Check out the new Nine Circles profile where I was asked about Aziola Cry and music in general. Read the full article at https://ninecircles.co/2026/05/27/profile-progressive-rock-trio-aziola-cry/

Watch the new interview!

“Dysphoria Ritual” showcases subtle complexity and accomplished songwriting innovation within a warm, clear production. An instrumental highlight without a doubt!

Read the full review at https://theprogspace.com/album_releases/week-17-2026/

Dysphoria Ritual is featured as “New and Notable” on the homepage of Bandcamp.

Last night, I appeared along with Tommy on the Music in Widescreen program. Listen to the archived show at https://musicinwidescreen.com/2026/05/04/episode-1140-aziola-dysphoria-ritual/

Dysphoria Ritual is another masterclass in instrumental storytelling from Aziola Cry, one that communicates unease and complexity without uttering a single word. This one is strictly for the deep-end dwellers, but those willing to take the plunge will find one of the most intellectually rewarding progressive metal records in recent memory.

Read the full review: https://www.sonicperspectives.com/album-reviews/aziola-cry-dysphoria-ritual/

Read my interview with …And Justice For Art to learn about how the artwork came together and more.

www.andjusticeforart.com/2026/04/album-cover-story-aziola-crys-dysphoria.html?m=1
 

“These compositions within the six tracks that is on here, blend in their maturity and distinctive voices throughout their arrangements.”

Read the full review at: https://echoesanddust.com/2026/04/aziola-cry-dysphoria-ritual/

The new Aziola Cry album, Dysphoria Ritual, has been released today on 7D Media. The CD version comes in a beautifully packaged ecopack complete with artwork from world renowned artist, Travis Smith. The album is also available for streaming on all platforms. Click HERE to purchase or listen.

I have a new interview up with Alex from Love Sugar Show where we talk about the new Aziola Cry album and the process of making it. 
 

NEW ALBUM PREMIERE. Visit The Progspace for an exclusive premiere of the new Aziola Cry album out this Friday on 7d Media.

“When it came time to begin writing music for what became Dysphoria Ritual, I intentionally wanted more compact songs by Aziola Cry standards. Our last album contained four long songs including a twenty-two minute epic, so my first goal was to try and say as much as possible, but within a constricted length. Next, I set out to push myself on the Warr Guitar and create music that was challenging not only for me but also for Mike and Tommy. The end result is music that I am excited for people to hear.”

https://theprogspace.com/aziola-cry-dysphoria-ritual-album-premiere

Check out my latest interview. This time I return to speak with Hector at The Chill Dude On A Couch and speak about the new Aziola Cry album and more. Watch it now at