Howell, NJ’s metalcore maelstrom Stairia – Vinny McMaster (16, vocals), Shayne Ross (18, guitar), Paul Hicks (17, bass) and Matt Guyre (15, drums) – may be young, but they make up in technical prowess what they lack in age. Passionately playing fast, aggressive, challenging metal, Stairia formed in 2006 playing As I Lay Dying and Avenged Sevenfold covers in Matt Guyre’s basement. After undergoing a few personnel changes, Stairia began writing original songs, solidified their line-up in 2007, and began playing local shows -- having already conquered Asbury Park’s legendary Stone Pony. Taking sonic cues from As I Lay Dying, August Burns Red, Led Zeppelin, old Metallica and Haste the Day, Stairia fashioned their own creative brand of modern metalcore complete with vicious breakdowns, incendiary guitar solos, offbeat time signatures, clean drums, ferocious vocals and high energy. With angry lyrics telling stories about tragedy and fulfilling one’s destiny, Stairia’s serious talent and constant enthusiasm make them fun to watch and listen to.
-The Aquarian
www.rhapsody.com/metal
: stairianj
