DEBRIS.COMgood for a laugh, or possibly an aneurysm

In search of a band to join, I traded several emails with a guy whose band seeks a new drummer. I was impressed by the guy’s ability to articulate what he was looking for. He drew extended comparisons to various drummers and bands I respect, citing as influences numerous artists I like.

At one point he wrote of his band’s original music, “it’s almost a perfect blend of the Police and Rush.” This had an impact. I like both those bands, and I think both Stewart Copeland and Neil Peart are amazingly talented at the drum kit. (I bought the Oysterhead disc just to hear Stewart Copeland play.)

So I went to the band’s next gig to check them out before committing to an audition. I didn’t really know what to expect, but my anticipation level was high.

Here’s the first clue that I might be in for a surprise. The gig was part of a local Heavy Metal Wednesday show. I noticed, but drew no useful conclusions.

Here’s the second clue that I might be in for a surprise. There was a smoke machine onstage. I began to wonder what I’d gotten myself into.

Here’s the final clue that I was definitely in for a surprise: the lights come up, a huge power-chord sounds through the PA, and the four guys standing on stage begin head-banging in unison. With smoke. And then the singer started barking.

I heard no Police. I heard no Rush. Actually I heard no melody either. I mean no disrespect to the band; each one of the guys had plenty of talent. The music was very much not my style though… too little dynamic change, too few hooks, too much distortion, too much straight time. Part of the problem was the mix; it wasn’t bad per se, but I couldn’t discern much music through the wall of noise.

I laughed at how surprised I had been. I really hadn’t asked the right questions. But now I’ve got a good checklist for next time. (“You guys don’t do any unison head-banging, do you? Will I be expected to do unison head-banging? What about studded collars and wristbands, are those actually required?”)