Chris Oledude – THE CHOICE Review

There’s something immediate about “THE CHOICE ” as Chris Oledude shapes its identity.

THE CHOICE is Chris Oledude ‘s Single Out Now

Chris Oledude THE CHOICE opens with a striking organ sound that recalls 1970s and 80s prog rock. The organ delivers a psychedelic, intense introduction that immediately captures attention.

The background vocals shine with gospel-like energy, adding rich textures and a choir effect. The harmonies often recall the grandeur of a Broadway musical chorus. These layered voices enrich the haunting vocal lead and intensify the experience. Production highlights each instrument clearly, balancing complexity with clarity. Chris Oledude employs a dynamic arrangement that never feels overcrowded. The musical landscape opens and contracts, following the lyrical and emotional climb.

Midway through, subtle ethnic percussion enters, enhancing the track’s global spirit. The fusion of world rhythms with classic prog rock forms a unique sonic blend. Toward the end, a delicate flute emerges, injecting a peaceful, pastoral tone. This bucolic element softens the song’s intensity and nods toward nature’s calm. The flute’s gentle melodies contrast beautifully with earlier robust riffs and textures. The final moments leave the listener thoughtful and immersed in a dreamlike mood.

Vocals range from intimate whispers to soaring declarations, reinforcing the song’s dramatic arcs. The singer’s expressive delivery conveys vulnerability and strength at once. The intricate lyrics complement this vocal dynamism, making for a compelling storytelling experience. Chris Oledude’s songwriting here proves ambitious and evocative. He crafts an immersive journey rather than just a pop song. Listeners may find themselves caught in the music’s cinematic sweep.

Overall, THE CHOICE forms a visionary mosaic of sounds and emotions. It moves fluidly between psychedelia, ethnic influences, gospel energy, and prog rock complexity. The careful attention to instrumental detail and vocal layering creates a vivid, theatrical atmosphere throughout. This single demands focused listening to appreciate its many facets. Fans of expansive, concept-driven music will likely embrace this track. THE CHOICE marks an impressive statement of artistic vision and craft.

THE CHOICE is Chris Oledude ‘s Single Out Now!

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Chris Oledude is a socially conscious songwriter blending folk, funk, R&B, and rock. Inspired by Pete Seeger and bands like Jethro Tull and Rush, his music focuses on justice, environment, and human choices.

After performing in 1980s New York and years of activism, he returned in 2020 with a renewed vision. His work, including THE CHOICE and PREACHER MAN – VOL. 1, delivers honest storytelling with a message of change.

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The post THE CHOICE is Chris Oledude ‘s Single Out Now appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.

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In a post on their Instagram account, Japanese deathcore band Crystal Lake announced that they’d be splitting up with vocalist John Robert Centorrino three years after he joined in 2023. But don’t worry if you have a ticket to one of their upcoming shows — they’re going on without him by utilizing “special guest vocalists” at each upcoming gig.

For those keeping score, Centorrino joined the band when Ryo Kinoshita left in 2022 after being there since 2012. Rather than paraphrase what they said regarding Centorrino’s exit, in their post, here’s the text in full:

“We have an announcement to share. It has been an incredibly busy few years leading up to the release of our album The Weight of Sound. We started the year on a high, releasing the record in January and having a great time together with fans across Europe and the UK. 2026 is shaping up to be one of the busiest years we’ve ever had.

“Last year was also nonstop for Crystal Lake. We were writing and recording while moving from continent to continent playing some of the biggest shows of our career. During this busy time creating The Weight of Sound album, John welcomed his child into the world. That brought a deeper meaning to the core idea behind the song and album title, the weight that comes with balancing life, family, and being in a touring band

“Some of us in the band and on our team are fathers, so we understand both the joy of those short moments at home and the challenge of being away for long periods of time. John has given everything to make it work for us and his daughter, but the international distances and schedule demands have made it increasingly difficult for him to balance the two.

“So, it is with a heavy heart that we are announcing the mutual decision to part ways so John can focus on a path that allows him a healthier balance in his life and music career. We truly want this for John and, as hard as it is for both of us, we know it is the right decision.

“We want to thank John for the past three years and for everything he has brought to Crystal Lake. We are also grateful to all of you who welcomed him into this band, as well as our team and partners who continue to stand with us through every step.

“Crystal Lake has no intention of stopping. Our band is fortunate to have talented friends, and some of them have offered to fill in until we find our new singer. John remains part of our extended family, and we know you will continue to support him in whatever comes next.

“For all currently confirmed shows, we will continue playing with special guest vocalists filling in and remain more active than ever. We hope to see you out there as we continue our tour through Japan, Asia, Indonesia, Australia, the United States, and back to Europe later this year.”

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The post Crystal Lake Part Ways with Vocalist John Robert Centorrino, Shows Will Go On as Normal appeared first on MetalSucks.

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Both artists played pivotal roles in the band's past in one way or another. Continue reading…

Why Did Crystal Lake Part Ways With John Centorrino?

He stepped away to prioritize family life after global touring made it impossible to maintain balance.

TL;DR

• Crystal Lake and John Centorrino have mutually parted ways
• His departure centers on family and the realities of nonstop touring
• The band will use guest vocalists for upcoming shows
• The timing disrupts a major momentum phase for the band

This landed out of nowhere — and it hits harder when you look at the timing.

Crystal Lake were in the middle of a serious global push… and now they’re resetting again.

And it’s not exactly a small shift.

Right now, this is one of those moments that can either stall a band — or redefine them.

The Full Band Statement Reveals Everything

Crystal Lake didn’t hide behind vague language here — they laid it out clearly.

“Last year was nonstop for Crystal Lake. We were writing and recording while moving from continent to continent playing some of the biggest shows of our career. During this busy time creating ‘The Weight Of Sound’ album, John welcomed his child into the world. That brought a deeper meaning to the core idea behind the song and album title, the weight that comes with balancing life, family, and being in a touring band.

Some of us in the band and on our team are fathers, so we understand both the joy of those short moments at home and the challenge of being away for long periods of time. John has given everything to make it work for us and his daughter, but the international distances and schedule demands have made it increasingly difficult for him to balance the two.

So, it is with a heavy heart that we are announcing the mutual decision to part ways so John can focus on a path that allows him a healthier balance in his life and music career. We truly want this for John and, as hard as it is for both of us, we know it is the right decision.”

This Timing Changes The Conversation Completely

If this happened during a quiet period, it lands differently.

It didn’t.

This comes right after:

• A major album cycle (The Weight Of Sound)
• Heavy international touring
• A rebuilt lineup gaining traction again

That’s why this isn’t just “another lineup change.”

This interrupts momentum — and momentum is everything at this level.

What Crystal Lake Are Doing Next

There’s no immediate replacement.

Instead, the band confirmed they’ll move forward with special guest vocalists for all currently scheduled shows.

That keeps everything alive short-term.

But it also leaves a real question hanging:

Is this a transition phase… or the beginning of another rebuild?

Because rotating vocalists can create energy — but they can also signal instability if it drags on too long.

This Is The Reality Touring Bands Don’t Talk About

This wasn’t burnout.

It wasn’t controversy.

It wasn’t creative conflict.

It was something far more common — and far less talked about:

The reality that global touring and family life don’t always coexist.

And more artists are starting to choose:

• Presence over distance
• Longevity over burnout
• Real life over constant movement

That shift is happening quietly across the industry.

This is just one of the clearest examples of it.

The John Centorrino Era Was Just Getting Started

Centorrino joined Crystal Lake in 2023, stepping into a difficult position replacing Ryo Kinoshita.

And he didn’t ease into it — he walked straight into:

• Global touring
• High expectations
• A band rebuilding its identity

Not long ago, he also appeared on the Loaded Radio podcast discussing The Weight Of Sound — and hearing that conversation now adds a different layer to everything that’s unfolded since.

If you caught that interview, this news probably hits differently.

Where This Leaves Crystal Lake

Crystal Lake have survived lineup changes before.

But each one carries risk.

Right now, they’re at a fork:

• Lock in a new permanent voice and keep momentum
• Or drift into another uncertain cycle

They’ve proven they can rebuild.

The question now is how fast they do it this time.

 

 

 

 

 

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FAQ

When did John Centorrino join Crystal Lake?

He joined in 2023 after leaving The Last Ten Seconds Of Life.

Why did he leave Crystal Lake?

To focus on family after struggling with the demands of international touring.

Is Crystal Lake replacing him?

Not immediately — they will use guest vocalists for upcoming shows.

What album did he record with Crystal Lake?

The Weight Of Sound

Crystal Lake Bio

Crystal Lake are a Japanese metalcore band formed in Tokyo, known for their blend of aggressive metalcore, electronic elements, and global touring presence. After gaining international recognition with vocalist Ryo Kinoshita, the band continued its evolution with John Centorrino in 2023, pushing further into international markets with The Weight Of Sound era.

The post Crystal Lake Lose Vocalist John Centorrino — Exit Hits At Worst Possible Moment appeared first on Loaded Radio.

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