GWAR: Bloody Pit Of Horror

Many bands have tried imitating GWAR, and have all failed miserably. Not necessarily because of lack of talent, but because the masters of gore are untouchable. What makes them untouchable? Well, not only are they are one of the hardest working bands in the music world, but they are constantly reinventing themselves by stepping their game up and not losing focus of their status as a cult band . If you take a look at their 25+ year career, their music has evolved constantly and as a result the music industry has labeled them as Thrash Metal, Comedy Rock, Crossover Thrash, Hardcore Punk and Shock Rock. To us they are simply GWAR! No labels, no gimmicks, just original energetic Heavy Music with lots of humor and controversy.

In the past 6 months we’ve had the chance to get to know their master Oderus Urungus, and even though he is from Antartica, we’ve managed to get to somewhat understand his chaotic personality. One thing that is always evident is that GWAR is his Metallic pride and joy. Its always a trip experiencing the members of GWAR getting into character and how in a matter of seconds they can turn any venue upside down with their monstrous strength and powerful music.

So what is the fuel that feeds fire to Oderus and the rest of the band? Apart from their awareness about politics and pop culture, which are often portrayed during their live sets. They also feed from the adrenalized GWAR aficionado’s who know that when they go to one of the band’s shows, they must be ready to get sonically annihilated and drenched with fake blood. Some may call it a chemical warfare, but the Gwar fans call it a blood bath in a bloody pit of horror! An outsider might think that these kids wearing white t-shirts (so they can get drenched by GWAR) are crazy, but the reality is that next to Oderus and the GWAR clan, nobody is crazy.

At their recent show at the Starland Ballroom in Sayerville (or Slayerville) New Jersey, we had the chance to interview Oderus Urungus right before the band went on stage. Here is this EXCLUSIVE chaotic interview, which also features plenty of live footage and a fan interview! So put on your white t-shirt and enter GWAR’s Bloody Pit Of Horror!

WARNING: Due to the graphic nature of this program, viewer discretion is advised.


Special thanks to Oderus, Jon Freeman, Rene Encarnacion & all the GWAR aficionados!

Photo credit: Bet You I Did and Cornelia Wickel (Music Photocalypse)

Related links:
GWAR's Official Site
GWAR on Metal Blade Records

Read more...

Past, Present, and Future Legends: Life Of Agony & Vision Of Disorder

On January 28th, 2011, after sitting in some grueling Friday afternoon traffic, we arrived at the Starland Ballroom in Slayerville New Jersey around 7 o’clock. Why did we travel for over 2 hours on a cold winter night? Well, we needed to experience round 2 of the Life Of Agony and Vision Of Disorder concert. The two bands had performed together in New York City this past December, and they left everyone hungry for some more musical power.

Performing that night with the two legendary bands was Anaka from New York City, a band that makes it clear from the moment they step on stage that they want to get the crowd riled up. Luckily, we were able to catch their entire set and they proved to us why Life Of Agony asked them to be part of the show. The Pallis brothers are true Metalheads, and together create a unique blend of music.

After Anaka’s set we headed to the backstage area and ran into VOD’s drummer Brendon Cohen who was anxiously waiting for the gig. Then we headed to VOD’s dressing rooms were the rest of the band was. We had always heard that the guys in VOD are very genuine people, and this was definitely confirmed after hanging out with them.

In the midst of all the backstage shenanigans, we ran into Johnny Kelly from Type O Negative and Seventh Void, and Biohazard’s drummer Danny Schuler. Once inside Life Of Agony’s dressing room we got to meet their singer Keith Caputo, who is a very nice guy and who was somewhat nervous about performing.


Once it was show time for VOD, the entire backstage area cleared off, and the venue was finally packed. The band kicked off their set with Choked, which immediately got the crowd moving uncontrollably. Long Island’s Hardcore legends kept the intensity throughout their entire 45 minute set and reminded everyone why they are the best band to ever come from Long Island. The highlight of their performance was when they performed two brand new songs, which were welcomed with arms wide open by all the VOD fans. One of the songs is called “Hard Times” and the other one is known as the “Slow Song”. While both songs blend in elements of the “Green Album” and Imprint, the bands new music has evolved once again. We can’t wait to listen to the new record!

After all the concert attendees grabbed a drink and cleared the sweat from their foreheads, it was time for Life Of Agony. Right before they stepped on stage, we spoke with their singer Keith Caputo backstage and when we asked him if he was nervous, he responded: “I am scared! I am also very anxious, and very excited! This is what I live for.” Needless to say, Life Of Agony got the crowd moving, singing along, and grooving. It’s refreshing to see so many pretty girls at a rock show!

When we saw Life Of Agony in December, we mentioned that we thought they were good, but that Biohazard should have headlined that show. We also felt that the band did not perform at their very best. Well, this time around they proved to us why they are considered legends by millions of fans worldwide!



Special thanks to VOD, Brenna Chase, Alex Dementia & crew, and to Joe LaRusso!

Pictures by Joe LaRusso!

Related links:
Life Of Agony
Vision Of Disorder
Anaka

Read more...