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19 Minutes of Prog Fury: Versa Launch Sci-Fi Epic ‘Artemis’ with Explosive New Animated Video

  • Writer: Rock Metal Machine
    Rock Metal Machine
  • 10 hours ago
  • 3 min read

VERSA



Canadian progressive rock collective Versa proudly unveil a breathtaking new animated music video for their 19-minute sci-fi epic “Artemis”, featuring guest performances from Michael Trew (Moon Letters) and Sam Vallen (Caligula's Horse). The video will be available worldwide from Friday, March 20, 2026.


The track is taken from the band’s landmark anniversary release, A Voyage / A Destination – Round Trip Special Edition, which launched on March 6, 2026 as a digital release and deluxe double CD.


The “Artemis” video is a remarkable achievement in independent animation, having been entirely storyboarded, animated, and edited by a single artist, Amy Winter. Developed over more than a year, the film was co-scripted by Winter and Versa’s Matthew Dolmage, based on Dolmage’s original story and lyrics.


Drawing heavy inspiration from early-1990s point-and-click adventure games, the video serves as both a nostalgic homage and a fully immersive visual experience. Fans of classic PC titles will recognize stylistic nods to the genre’s golden era, with the band citing influential studios such as LucasArts and Sierra, as well as the legendary “Two Guys from Andromeda,” as key inspirations.


2026 marks 20 years of Versa, celebrated with the definitive presentation of their ambitious double-album project:


Originally conceived during the COVID pandemic, A Voyage / A Destination evolved into an expansive two-part release:


Part 1: September 9, 2022


Part 2: October 4, 2024


Both installments received strong international acclaim within the progressive music community. Part 2 appeared on multiple year-end “Best Of” lists, while Part 1 was recognized by Loudwire as one of The 11 Best Prog Rock Albums of the 2020s (So Far).





Now, for the first time, the project is presented as originally envisioned — a unified, cohesive listening experience, complete with exclusive bonus material.


Versa — comprised of Matthew Dolmage, Hollas Longton, Jesse Bell, and Janelle Wrona — are known for blending progressive rock ambition with post-rock atmosphere and indie sensibilities.


Six people stand in a row, facing forward. Background features a scenic mural. One person wears a zebra-patterned jacket. Serious expressions.
Photo Credit: Colin McTaggart

The album features an impressive lineup of international collaborators, including members of Caligula’s Horse, Big Big Train, Haken, Wobbler, Neal Morse Band, and more, reflecting the band’s growing global reputation.


Dolmage shares:


“‘Artemis’ really represents the heart of what we were trying to achieve with this project; something expansive, cinematic, and deeply emotional. The video brought a whole new dimension to the story, and seeing it come to life through Amy’s work was honestly surreal. It feels like the final piece of the puzzle falling into place after years of building this world.”


FULL CREDITS – “ARTEMIS”


Animation & Production

Amy Winter: Storyboards, Animation, Editing


Music & Performance

Music by Matthew Dolmage, Hollas Longton & Jesse Bell


Performed by Versa:


Matthew Dolmage

Hollas Longton

Jesse Bell

Janelle Wrona


Featuring:


Michael Trew (Moon Letters) – Lead Vocals

Sam Vallen (Caligula's Horse) – Lead & Rhythm Guitars

Julia Dolmage – Lead & Backing Vocals

Kelly Nordstrom (eMolecule, Sound of Contact)– Electric Bass

Laine Longton – Cello

Ryan Cole – Trumpet

Nelson Salahub – Trombone

Dennis Atlas (Pattern-Seeking Animals, Toto) – Synthesizer

Stephanie Boutet – Piano


Additional Backing Vocals:


The Remnants – Nicole Mar, Heather Wellman, Lori Haddon, Jesse Bell, Matthew Dolmage



Space-themed artwork with planets, a spaceship, and swirling colors. Text reads "20th Anniversary A Voyage." The mood is cosmic and celebratory.

Order the album:



Versa:


Matthew Dolmage

Hollas Longton

Jesse Bell

Janelle Wrona



CONNECT WITH VERSA



With A Voyage / A Destination – Round Trip Special Edition, Versa bring their most ambitious vision full circle — a sweeping, cinematic work now fully realised, and vividly brought to life through the stunning animated world of “Artemis.”


Pre-order our forthcoming edition

Fireworks Rock & Metal Magazine Issue #113
£7.99
Pre-order your issue


Bulldog in top hat and leather jacket holds a guitar. Text: "Bad Dog Promotions." Rock 'n' roll theme with a playful vibe.

Podcast promo with a silver microphone, text "PYROTECHNICS" in orange, discusses Rock & Metal. Available on major streaming platforms.

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