Debating what to write about, I found myself conflicted. A post about a Texas thrash metal band doesn't seem to fit in with commentary on Seattle's hip hop scene. However, I'd rather discuss music that interests me than be contained to a single genre or location.
So here it is. Upon my introduction to thrash/hardcore metal I found myself covering my ears. The current hardcore scene involves an onslaught of screaming, blast beats and layers of distortion. While I could appreciate the technicality of the music, it just seemed like white noise. But! as I dug deeper I discovered a more progressive and dynamic sound from a number of budding metal bands.
Bands such as Mudvayne, Killswitch Engage and Bullet for my Valentine caught my attention. Angry lyrics and a balanced mix of screaming and singing highlighted this faction of the metal world. While these bands drew me into the genre, Dallas grown and Rise Records pride Memphis May Fire has become my favorite.
Like Mudvayne and Bullet for my Valentine, Memphis May fire has a perfect balance of screaming and singing. Singer Matty Mullins mixes melodic vocal tones and angry lyrics with harsh pre-chorus screaming segments. The band's style is dynamic, melodic and poetic, while still sticking to its metalcore roots.
Memphis May Fire's music can be compared to writing a letter. Although the purpose of the letter can usually be accomplished with one sentence, varied vocabulary, effective word placement and proper punctuation contribute to a more powerful message. While most metal bands use the single sentence approach, Memphis May Fire puts off revealing the purpose of each song through verses and pre-choruses that fluctuate in tone and feel, before diving into aggressive hooks that let the listener in on all he or she needs to know.
With the band coming off its latest success, 2011's The Hollow, Memphis May Fire has gained a dedicated fan base. And with the announcement of their newest record Challenger, June 26th just became the new Christmas for Memphis May Fire Fans. The band recently released "Prove me Right" over youtube, an early look at what the new record will sound like. The song seems to discuss the dark side of the music business and the role of record companies. "Where were you when they had no faith in us?" screams Mullins. Judging from the song, Memphis May Fire is angrier, more dynamic, and more meftal driven than ever before. In addition, the band just released a full album teaser with snippets of each song of the upcoming album. The new song "Vices" sounds like the albums best track. Fast forward to the 1:40 mark in the video below.
Giving fans a steady dose of material to hold them over until the albums release, Memphis May Fire has released four studio updates over their youtube page. The updates feature bassist Cory Elder vocally recording bass tracks through a sound mixer, guitarist Kellen McGregor taping off every fret that doesn't sound "southern", and Asking Alexandria's singer Danny Worsnop making a guest appearance. All aspects seem to suggest that the band's next album is something to look forward to.
Speaking of having something to look forward to, Memphis May Fire has joined the 2012 Warped Tour and will be coming to Redmond's Marymoor park on August 4th. I will be sure to attend and you all should to!
My favorite May Fire song: "The Victim"
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