The Lake (RIP 2004-2007)

The Lake began its official start in Spring 2004 when it was formed by Joe Metcalf and Ian McIntosh. They wanted to write music that was energetic without losing the melodic and pretty side of it all. Ian’s unique scream gave the project a potential to be different from all the other cookie cutter screamo bands in the hardcore scene. With this idea, the two recruited David “Knees” Savino on bass. Knees brought a unique brand of energy to the group. His willingness to put 100% into the band gave them the committed bassist they needed.

Also in the original line up was Alex McIntosh (brother of Ian), Alex’s raw talent was more then enough to convince the band he was worthy. He didn’t stop there however, he poured himself into the band, and he added a flare that no one else could have. To this day he is truly a vital and irreplaceable part of The Lake

With its line up filled The Lake then started its young life in the northern Maryland music scene. Playing shows every so often, and just having fun with it. Some months passed and with the bands original drummer now being married and preoccupied, the band recruited Andrew "Richard" Kay as the new drummer, and soon there after Joe announced that his heart was no longer in the music that we were playing that he was leaving. With hopes still high, a search began for a new guitar player.

Enter guitarist Chris Cheok in spring 2005. The Lake was now endowed with one of the most energetic men to ever put on a sweatband. With his astronomical tolerance for pain, Cheok completed his first heavily booked summer with The Lake only weeks after MAJOR knee reconstructive surgery. His experience on stage, and his love of music brought The Lake one-step closer to the final combination that would cement who they are now.

That summer of 2005 was the true molding of The Lake. Constant shows and practices led to a strong local following. It was also the time when most of The Lakes most popular songs were written.

After a lot of discussion, The Lake decided to bid farewell to their original drummer in fall 2005. Ultimately this was the decision that would propel The Lake into their current state. Pat Acuña, former band mate of Cheok, was called upon to fill the roll. Acuña recorded The Lakes popular 2006 demo, From Here These Light Seem Brighter, only 2 weeks after joining the band, and it was clear that he was the man for the job. His incredible ability to take a simple beat and inject it with a passion never seen in the area has brought new attention to The Lake. Whatever the reason, the band was able to reach new heights since the change, and showed no sign of slowing down.

In summer '06 the lake departed on their first tour, sadly it would be without their original bassist Knees Savino. Personal conflicts would unfourtunatly lead to a final split with the band and their friend. Joining The Lake would be Jim Sanders, This would be the final line up change for The Lake.

The Lake is definitely a band on the rise to look out for. With talent that demands to be recognized and a style that could bring a revival of fun music – Their refreshingly “hardcore you can make out to” sound has captured the attention of everyone around them. Check out The Lake, and believe that music doesn’t have to be normal to be real.