The music industry is abuzz with the news that UNEARTH, the iconic American metalcore band, is returning to its roots with Metal Blade Records. This reunion is a significant move, not just for the band but for the entire extreme metal scene.
UNEARTH's journey began in the heart of the metalcore movement, where they found their sound—a unique blend of European death metal melodicism and the raw energy of American thrash and hardcore. Over nearly three decades, they've left an indelible mark on the genre, playing countless shows and festivals worldwide, selling records by the hundreds of thousands, and inspiring a new generation of extreme metal bands.
What makes this reunion particularly intriguing is the timing. UNEARTH's previous association with Metal Blade Records during the early 2000s was a pivotal period in their career, and now, as they prepare to release new music, they're returning to the label that helped launch them into the spotlight. It's a testament to the enduring relationship between the band and the label, and a sign of the mutual respect and trust that has developed over the years.
Vocalist Trevor Phipps shares his excitement, describing the reunion as a homecoming. He believes that their first run with Metal Blade Records provided them with the best opportunity to pursue their musical dreams and tour extensively. The band's trust and appreciation for the familiar faces at the label are evident, and they're eager to showcase their heaviest and most boundary-pushing music yet.
Guitarist Peter Layman echoes these sentiments, emphasizing that Metal Blade Records has been an integral part of UNEARTH's defining moments. He believes that the label is the perfect fit for their current direction and is confident that their new offering will be their best work to date.
Michael Faley, Metal Blade Records' A&R, expresses his honor at having UNEARTH back in the family. He highlights the incredible moments in the label's history that the band has been a part of and believes that their reconnection is a massive win. Faley's enthusiasm for UNEARTH's vision and his commitment to helping them tell their story further emphasize the special relationship between the band and the label.
In addition to the label reunion, UNEARTH has also announced new management and booking partnerships. They've joined forces with AISAmusic for management, a move that brings them together with long-time friend and colleague Simon Füllemann, and the talented Bradley Zorgdrager. The band is excited about the new music, tours, and partnerships on the horizon and is eager to get back into the studio and on the road.
For European and Asian bookings, UNEARTH has partnered with Cobra Agency. Both Phipps and Layman express their pride and excitement about this collaboration, knowing that it will provide them with the best opportunities to continue sharing their art and exploring new places.
UNEARTH's nearly three-decade-long journey has been nothing short of remarkable. As one of the key bands of the New Wave Of American Heavy Metal (NWOAHM), they rose alongside other iconic acts like KILLSWITCH ENGAGE, LAMB OF GOD, and SHADOWS FALL. Phipps recalls the healthy competition between these bands, which ultimately led to a new era in American metal.
As UNEARTH embarks on this new chapter, it's clear that their influence and impact on the genre will continue to resonate. Their reunion with Metal Blade Records and their new partnerships signal a bright future for the band, and fans can look forward to more groundbreaking music and unforgettable live performances.
