A few words about the usual "influences" discussion. I've been around for a long time and like any serious metal fan, could create lists of infinite length of every band that turned my head. We're all caught in the same dilemma, do we list every band to show our impeccable depth, making sure we have the right mix of obscure and legendary names? Are we afraid that if we list more than one genre or style we might seem crossover, untrue, or less-dedicated?
What I do believe is this: As mighty as the legendary names are, could we not explore some new themes? I will be expanding my thoughts on this in the blog section as time permits. While I have your attention, here is the bottomline -- I feel we are recycling too many ideas from a limited gene pool. Changing up does not mean "softening down," nor does it mean becoming more extreme only for the sake of extremity. Can we keep the crushing styles of many of our favorite DM/BM bands and yet inject new lyrical subject matter that moves beyond the cliche? Drop in if you think this is something you are interested in, or if is something your band is already doing.
Unusual instruments, unconventional arrangements, alternate tunings, cultural references, can all be explored. I also don't think doing covers is somehow unworthy, and let's face it, not every original is a masterpiece. Hell, if a band could pull off a convincing set of Immortal or Bolt Thrower I would never go home. Not afraid of corpsepaint either if the musicianship backs it up. Strong believer in a theatrical aspect and stage intensity.
SOME OTHER REASONS TO BE HERE...
To create an island, a sanctuary, a metal-space that is unconcerned with the mundane world. We all live in a technology-saturated world and I deeply welcome the opportunity to escape its soul-suffocating embrace. Yes, the absurd paradox is that "Myspace" is itself a component of the "technology-saturated world," but despite its many drawbacks, it allows musicians to connect globally like no other....so apparently it will have to do.
To stay in touch with my small group of most-excellent friends, who always seem to be on the road or far-removed. The like-minded may be invited in, but I will decide. No, that's not elitist, that's quality over quantity.
TOLERANCE IS OVER-RATED. HELP STOP THE CULTURAL SMOTHERING OF WESTERN CIVILIZATION. REFUSE! RESIST!
Edited with Thomas Myspace Editor V4.4 (www.strikefile.com/myspace)