Toronto Progressive Rock Band DEREV Unveils Live Video for “Cyclone” and Embarks on Cross-Canada Tour in Support of Debut Album Troubled Mind

Toronto Prog Rockers DEREV Drop Live Video for “Cyclone” and Launch Cross-Canada Tour for Debut Album Troubled Mind

Montreal, QC – April 30, 2025 –
Toronto’s progressive rock ensemble DEREV has released a gripping live video of their song “Cyclone,” captured during their album release show at The Supermarket, a beloved venue in the city’s Kensington Market. This unveiling comes as the band embarks on an extensive Canadian tour to promote their debut full-length album, Troubled Mind, out now on vinyl and digital platforms.

The performance video offers fans a raw and energetic taste of the band’s live chemistry. “The Troubled Mind release show at the Supermarket was one of the best experiences we’ve had on stage to date,” says the band. “That night was one of those when the stars aligned. From the crowd’s energy to the sound and lights, it was magical. We wanted to capture that experience and share it with fans who haven’t seen us live yet.”

Watch “Cyclone” live from The Supermarket:

About the Album – Troubled Mind

Released on March 26, 2025, Troubled Mind follows the band’s 2021 EP Leap of Faith. The album dives deep into the human psyche, with each track representing a different facet of mental health—ranging from fleeting anxiety to chronic conditions like schizophrenia, depression, and emotional paralysis. The album is described by the band as both personal and introspective, with its lyrical themes mirrored by a rich and varied sonic landscape.

Musically, Troubled Mind blends traditional progressive rock elements with Middle Eastern instrumentation and rhythms. The album includes intricate time signatures, a mix of heavy and ambient moments, and experimental touches such as the use of cajón, darbuka, and electronic textures.

“This album is full of memorable parts—musically and lyrically,” shares the band. “Each song is like stepping into a different mindset, a different state of being.”

Band Origins & Lineup

DEREV was formed by drummer Michel Karakach and guitarist Armando Bablanian, childhood friends who reunited in Toronto after Karakach fled conflict in the Middle East. What began as a dream turned into a compelling musical project, fusing the heritage of their homeland with the expansive possibilities of progressive rock.

The current studio lineup includes:

• Adel Saflou – Vocals (recorded on the album)

• Armando Bablanian – Guitar

• Michel Karakach – Drums

• Stan Komarovsky – Bass

• Ran Zehavi – Keyboards

The live band features Mike Symons on vocals, replacing Saflou for touring.

Western Canada Tour Dates – May 2025

• May 2 – Sudbury, ON – The Townhouse

• May 3 – Marathon, ON – Biloxys Wings and Things

• May 4 – TBA (Northwestern Ontario)

• May 6 – TBA (Manitoba)

• May 8 – Regina, SK – Revival Music Room

• May 9 – Saskatoon, SK – Amigos Cantina

• May 10 – Edmonton, AB – Rendezvous Pub

• May 12 – Grand Forks, BC – 4th St. Studio

• May 13 – Kamloops, BC – The Blue Grotto

• May 14 – Vancouver, BC – The Roxy Cabaret

• May 16 – Vernon, BC – Longhorn Pub

• May 17 – Cranbrook, BC – The York Public House

• May 18 – Calgary, AB – Verns

• May 20 – Winnipeg, MB – Sidestage

• May 22 – Thunder Bay, ON – Black Pirates Pub

• May 23 – Sault Ste. Marie, ON – Soo Blaster

• May 24 – Timmins, ON – Victory Tavern

Track Listing – Troubled Mind

1. Buried Voice (7:23)

2. Cyclone (5:39)

3. Crawl Space (1:16)

4. Room 9 (6:15)

5. Paracusia (4:35)

6. Tides of Time (5:59)

7. Darker Self (5:44)

8. Trace Within (5:01)

Praise for Troubled Mind

• “A great album as Derev redefine what rock music can and should be.” – Background Magazine

• “A Progressive album that is unpretentious and emotional. 8/10” – Metal Temple

• “Retro-sounding music with plenty of 70s and 80s prog influences. 4/5” – Prog Critique

• “Excellent music and a beautiful, intelligent album.” – Plus PROG de Vous

• “Porcupine Tree and Opeth enthusiasts might appreciate this.” – Rock Portaal

• “Great band, great discovery. Playing tips: Room 9, Cyclone, Paracusia. 8/10” – PowerMetal.de