The Metal Files

This band is the ultimate death metal band for me. I remember when they were first getting started in Virginia playing at Fantasy Records and wherever else they could. Always a bunch of nice guys.

The band I was in at the time did some shows with them around the Hampton Roads area and I’d always try to see them when they played. Their drummer was phenomenal. Mike Van Dyne. Just a total badass and i was disappointed when he left. Their rhythm guitarist, Chris Jones, left and ultimately ended up in my Motorhead tribute band. He was such an incredible talent on the guitar and as a vocalist. I think he’s completely out of music now.

Then there’s James Malone. The conductor of it all. The boy can shred like none other. He’s taken everything that Chuck Schuldiner (RIP) did and kicked it up a few notches. Watching him sing while playing some crazy riffs is utterly impressive.

Unfortunately I haven’t seen them since I moved to Texas although they’ve played in San Antonio several times in the last 2 years. They keep playing early slots on these big death metal tours and I’m not much of a fan of paying $30 to see a bunch of bands I don’t like just to see the one I do like play for 30 minutes. Hopefully they’ll get some better billing.

They got signed to Nuclear Blast a year ro so ago and recorded their latest album, “We Are The Nightmare.” You’re punched in the face the momoent it kicks in. By the end of the album you feel like you’ve been dragged behind a semi for 40 miles. Darren Cesca’s drumwork is mind numbing. Go to Youtube and check out some of his stuff.

If you’re into Death’s “Symbolic” and “Individual Thought Patterns” then you need to hear Arsis.

I’m proud of those guys. Malone worked hard to get to where he is and I hope they have continues success.

Be sure to check out their Myspace page as well.