Derev is a Progressive Rock/Metal band from Toronto, Canada, formed by Italian/Armenian guitarist Armando Bablanian and Syrian/Armenian drummer Michel Karakach. Derev’s sound combines the energy and intensity of metal music with the atmospheric sound of old-school progressive rock while incorporating elements of their Arabic and Armenian heritage. The plan for what eventually became Derev was in the works since Michel and Armando met in high school while living in Kuwait. At the time, they were unable to pursue the project due to the circumstances of living in the Middle East. 

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After obtaining his dental degree in Syria and immigrating to Canada, Michel joined Armando in Toronto to form the band after an eight-year hiatus, where they met the bassist Liam Horrigan who recently joined the project. Their debut EP Leap of Faith, was released in the spring of 2021. The title track Leap of Faith features Adel Saflou of the Toronto band Ambrotype on vocals.