Not another metal "reunion"

[Eldritch]

I don't get the point other than to make Kelly some cash. No new songs, no new CD, just a one off string of Summer dates after 13 years? I read that Kelly owned the stuff and licensed it to Relapse and that's the only thing I see in print as to the point. Where's Tony Choy and Steven Flynn been in the metal world in the last decade?? Where is Rand?? Kelly's been active, but Neurotica and Big Machine???? Give us real prog metal fans a break. Those were lame metal at best. How can such a self proclaimed "prog pioneer" play AC/DC clone music?? Hard to take seriously guys. And I read that Kelly says doing new Atheist music would ruin the reputation of the band??? ha ha, I think Brian Johnson already did that Kelly. But you want us to buy the new "fusion project" with you and Flynn that you already have planned??? I thought Flynn had moved on with his own band named "Gnostic", that WAS METAL. I hope Atheist without Roger isn't taking the path of Metallica without Cliff.

[phodg]

Nothing wrong with a band getting together after a number of years to play a few gigs. It's not like they're forcing people to turn up. All the band members are doing their own things and if a couple of them decide to do a project together - again, there's nobody forcing you to buy it or even listen to it.

[Corpseworm]

Gnostic is still together with Steve. Another demo will appear soon. I'm not touching the rest of this.

[Eldritch]

Nothing wrong with a band getting back together, except when it's for a quick paycheck or to fulfull some contractual obligation. If it were genuine, how come new material would "ruin the reputation"? On the photo on Kelly's site, there are NO GUITAR players. Kelly says he isn't playing anymore. So who is the guitar player??? No mention of Rand anywhere????? I hope whoever it is can play. It just seems like throwing it together and playing some one off gigs would cheapen the band's reputation as much as doing new material. And why would Kelly do "fusion" when he's been in bands since that were NOTHING like the original Atheist sound. Not trying to piss off the guys in the band or the diehards, just trying to understand. It seems if you are a fan, you are going to have to pay to go to Europe or drive across the States to see them.

[WhoCares]

I'll have a go...

Well, unlike other bands they are ONLY doing the live dates. No "new" album... many other "reunions" have put out new albums, that IMHO have ruined their past reputation. If anything comes out of this it will be a live CD/DVD, and a chance to catch the UP lineup live... Honestly, I think that deserves applause on the part of the band, I don't think it's a money grab compared to a lot of the other reunions.

Do you honestly think that Atheist was a huge cash cow for the band all these years? What do you think they all drive Rolls Royces, and live in mansions? You're thinking Metallica... I'd be surprised if they broke even back in the day...

They own the rights to there music... wow, such a bad thing that is... they might actually get a dollar off the sale of an album instead of 10 cents...

Big Machine: Brian approached Kelly to sing... how do you say no to someone with his status? and yes, it's probably some money... Kelly has a family to feed you know... note: I don't like Big Machine either, but I don't disrespect Kelly for doing it.

Flynn only returned to metal recently... if you know your Atheist history, he left after UP... and didn't record Elements with the band.

Tony Choy has been doing lots of things... mostly keeping a roof over his head and food on his table...

I honestly have no clue about Rand... everyone's been very quiet about him, and his involvement. He did post a few times on the old forum.

Kelly as we all know has been involved in a few projects (Neurotica, Big Machine, Unheard, and currently some sort of hybrid between Neurotica & Unheard is in the works...) I'm glad he got the liscensing sorted so some of us true Atheist fans could finally afford to buy a copy of the Atheist catalog on CD without mortgaging our house for a 3rd time to buy a copy off Ebay.

I'm eagar to hear whatever Kelly & Steve come up with... it's bound to be interesting at the very least.

I'm sure the guys will throw in their 2cents when they have a minute... since Kelly, Steve, and Tony have all post here rather regularly.

I am only the webmaster, this is my opinion.

[WhoCares]

On the photo on Kelly's site, there are NO GUITAR players. Kelly says he isn't playing anymore. So who is the guitar player???

Rand is supposed to be one of the guitar players, the other will be one of the guys from Gnostic.

Kelly cannot play vigourous guitar due to carpal tunnel in his wrists, his hands go to sleep... He didn't play on the Elements tour for this reason.

[Tyler Durden]

I don't get the point other than to make Kelly some cash. No new songs, no new CD, just a one off string of Summer dates after 13 years? I read that Kelly owned the stuff and licensed it to Relapse and that's the only thing I see in print as to the point. Where's Tony Choy and Steven Flynn been in the metal world in the last decade?? Where is Rand?? Kelly's been active, but Neurotica and Big Machine???? Give us real prog metal fans a break. Those were lame metal at best. How can such a self proclaimed "prog pioneer" play AC/DC clone music?? Hard to take seriously guys. And I read that Kelly says doing new Atheist music would ruin the reputation of the band??? ha ha, I think Brian Johnson already did that Kelly. But you want us to buy the new "fusion project" with you and Flynn that you already have planned??? I thought Flynn had moved on with his own band named "Gnostic", that WAS METAL. I hope Atheist without Roger isn't taking the path of Metallica without Cliff.

I must say... how liberating for you to sign up to this Forum especially for your first post to tell us all about how you don't give a fuck about the Atheist reunion... what an original concept! You're wasting your time...

This reunion is not about the money, it's not about getting another new album out and making money off that, it's about THE FANS. Do you understand that concept, or do you need it in braille or audio format???

I NEVER had a chance to see Atheist perform live while they were together as they never toured here in the UK. As far as I'm concerned - I don't give a flying fuck at a rolling donut about how 'Metal' the band members were/are/will be in the future... what I DO give a fuck about, is that after all these 13 years, these guys have the good grace to put all the shit in their private lives aside especially for people like me!!! The fans, who would willingly auction a kidney on ebay to see these guys perform live!!!

Finally, after all these years of patience I'm going to see one of my favourite bands perform on stage Twice before the end of the year... and what's more I don't give a shit that I have to travel miles to see both shows, it's a small price to pay considering how far the band have gone out on a fucking limb to make this shit work, and how many miles they'll be travelling themselves to make my friends and I able to die happy.

Did Kelly say he's gonna perform a few Neurotica or Big Machine numbers during the Atheist shows? Not to my knowledge! So what exactly is your fucking problem? Is it that you think you can control other people by your restricted standards and if they have the audacity do or like something you don't agree with, then that invalidates the invisible contract between your dictatorship and the band, giving you the right to deride or belittle their motives, ethics & principles behind the reunion? Hmmmm, how unrewarding to play at being a godplayer...

The whole point of the band not writing new material is because they're all in a completely different headspace to what they were all those years ago - and any new shit they write will most likely NOT be what people expect or want to hear from Atheist TODAY. It will be easy enough for the band to get together to rehearse their old material & perform it live again, essentially it would just be like a cover band except they wrote the songs themselves.

If Kelly works on another project with Steve/Rand/Tony - then it will be as a different band, to protect the Legacy of Atheist. If they do work together, the material has the potential to be a completely different musical journey from Atheist and it also has the potential to blow the concept of Atheist off the fucking planet as well. However, I can understand their decision for a seperate project as it would only be following your lica hypothesis above if they were to record new material as Atheist again. Perhaps, if lica had called it a day after Cliff's death, then their latter material may be taken with more than projectile vomitus from the older fans...

[Eldritch]

Never implied Atheist drove Rolls Royces. they should, would look cool. Kelly says he owns the catalog, so I guess good for him, at least he's getting some cash now. But like you, I didn't care so much for his other projects. Nothing like Atheist. Plus, the diehards already have the 3 releases or have paid lots already. some of us even bought the re-releases. So Rand is in???? Funny, not a word about that anywhere. Are you giving us the scoop??? Where is Rand and the Gnostic guitar player??? Did only bass, drums and vocals rehearse up there in Atlanta????

[Eldritch]

Tyler, Brad, whoever you are, you are saying things that weren't said and jumping to all kinds of conclusions. Are you friends with those guys??? Do you know their motives?? This is a fan forum correct? As a fan, I'm asking relevant questions. If it is indeed FOR THE FANS, then there should be some eyes reading this. There are tons of rumors and I am trying to find the answers. Integrity and honesty are all that many metal bands talk about, ie Metallica. Actions speak plenty loud. And since you are ominiscient, what do ATHEIST FANS TODAY WANT TO HEAR???

[Reincremation]

dude, reread tyler's post. he pretty much covered it. i've never gotten to see Atheist live and they're one of my favorite bands. the reason for the reunion is that fans have wanted to see the band play live again. i am very pleased that kelly and the other members have decided to put the band back together for a few shows. if you don't like the idea, don't go and see them. this is a very simple concept. i would guess that kelly makes more money off the store that he runs than off the band, so i think it's safe to say that he's doing it for the fans, not for money.

[AndThePsychicSaw]

Never implied Atheist drove Rolls Royces. they should, would look cool. Kelly says he owns the catalog, so I guess good for him, at least he's getting some cash now. But like you, I didn't care so much for his other projects. Nothing like Atheist. Plus, the diehards already have the 3 releases or have paid lots already. some of us even bought the re-releases. So Rand is in???? Funny, not a word about that anywhere. Are you giving us the scoop??? Where is Rand and the Gnostic guitar player??? Did only bass, drums and vocals rehearse up there in Atlanta????

Actually, If I'm not mistaken, "Corpseworm" who posted earlier in this thread, is the second guitarist.

This tour is a chance for fans who haven't got to see Atheist 15 years ago, to have the chance to see them now. There should be respect for the guys for getting back together and doing these shows, not speculations. If you don't like it or think they are doing it for money, then simply don't go to the shows... it isn't affecting you.

And as Kelly said about the whole "New album" thing, he has a strong point. Why write new songs when they will probably turn out way different then in the past? Thats worth respect right there. If the guys were in it for the money they wouldnt give a fuck what everyone thought, or about ruining their legacy. They would write new songs not caring how they sounded, put out a new album, and tour for that, and hope for sales. But that is not what they are doing. They are leaving the past in the past, but just giving fans the opourtunity to see Atheist perform once again, like so many people would like to see.

[Tyler Durden]

Tyler, Brad, whoever you are, you are saying things that weren't said and jumping to all kinds of conclusions. Are you friends with those guys??? Do you know their motives?? This is a fan forum correct? As a fan, I'm asking relevant questions. If it is indeed FOR THE FANS, then there should be some eyes reading this. There are tons of rumors and I am trying to find the answers. Integrity and honesty are all that many metal bands talk about, ie Metallica. Actions speak plenty loud. And since you are ominiscient, what do ATHEIST FANS TODAY WANT TO HEAR???

I wasn't jumping to any conclusions... perhaps checking your reflection in the mirror could help with that scenario. I was repeating practically verbatim, 'facts' which I've heard directly from the band & friends of the band themselves as to the motives behind the Atheist reunion. You claim to have been asking relevant questions although, there are ways of asking... ways which are not so derisory & demeaning. Sometimes, a little respect & tact can find you the answers a lot quicker and easier than you would expect...

There are always tons of rumors, however I believe you just weren't looking hard enough, or actually gave two shits about researching properly before shooting your keyboard off. Everything you need to know about Atheist & their reunion is provided on their website (including links to interviews where Kelly has explained in no uncertain terms the WHO WHAT WHY WHERE & WHEN's behind the reunion. Perhaps next time you can try using your obvious intelligence in a little research before losing your first post virginity coming into a forum all guns blazing...

I also never claimed to be ominiscient - I choose to like & dislike music on hearing basis only. What I do think is important here is that it is the BAND (not me) who decided they WONT record new material under the name Athest as the BAND choose NOT to do so for their own reasons - those reasons are, that they choose not to destroy the legacy of Atheist. Instead of bitching about it like a schoolgirl that's ran out of tampons, I respect the bands decision & I'm just grateful that they HAVE a legacy behind them for me to enjoy, as well as making my Metal Dreams come true of finally getting to see them live...

...get over yourself.

[WhoCares]

Plus, the diehards already have the 3 releases or have paid lots already. some of us even bought the re-releases.

All my originals are on Cassette... not much good it does me now considering I no longer own a Tapedeck... I did buy the re-releases... and anything else I found that didn't require me to apply for a loan to buy over the years (I only ever found UP on CD)

So Rand is in???? Funny, not a word about that anywhere. Are you giving us the scoop??? Where is Rand and the Gnostic guitar player??? Did only bass, drums and vocals rehearse up there in Atlanta????

The lineup is the original UP lineup plus the guitarist from Gnostic filling in for Kelly. That's no news scoop, we've known for some time now. It's quite possible Rand took the picture... Maybe he's camera shy now...

We're still waiting on Kelly to update his blog (hint hint Kelly!) to give us all the details of the rehearsal in Atlanta.

[Transient]

lol internet

[quigonkick]

I'm going to entertain the dollar angle now...

Let's say this IS about the money for discussion's sake. Okay, what's the big deal? Atheist got mercilessly reemed, I'm sure, on more than one occasion back in the day - who didn't get screwed? Does anybody who was ever involved in this band NOT deserve a good paycheck? These guys have sweat blood more than ANY of us could imagine, who the HELL are any of us to say they don't deserve otherwise? When I catch Atheist in the states, I plan on buying EVERYTHING offered at the merch booth because this band deserves my cash more than just about any other band. PERIOD.

Now, Eldritch, since you seem to have a problem with people getting paid for their hard work, I live on an acre of land in northwest Florida that DESPERATLY needs some clearing out. Won't you be a doll and clear it for me? I can't pay you, of course, but I'll let you drink from the spicket.

And as for Kelly doing things other than what YOU want him to do...

The guy is a musician, and a damn good one! The fact that he engages in more than one genre only amplifies this guys talent. In other words, what good is a chef if he can only cook one dish? Kelly has earned the right to do whatever he hell he feels like doing and if he wants to make any kind of music, then so be it. You don't have to like everything he does.

By the way, Cliff Burton used to jam along to Mozart recordings. Does that disqualify him from the "School of Cool and Credibility" you personally erected?

If I came across too strong, too bad, but I've taken GREAT issue with people who think musicians should labor in squallor. I have a family too, so you better believe I'd do whatever I need to do to keep them fed, clothed, etc.

Oh yeah, welcome to the board. :emot-hand

[Tyler Durden]

I'm going to entertain the dollar angle now...

Let's say this IS about the money for discussion's sake. Okay, what's the big deal? Atheist got mercilessly reemed, I'm sure, on more than one occasion back in the day - who didn't get screwed? Does anybody who was ever involved in this band NOT deserve a good paycheck? These guys have sweat blood more than ANY of us could imagine, who the HELL are any of us to say they don't deserve otherwise? When I catch Atheist in the states, I plan on buying EVERYTHING offered at the merch booth because this band deserves my cash more than just about any other band. PERIOD.

Now, Eldritch, since you seem to have a problem with people getting paid for their hard work, I live on an acre of land in northwest Florida that DESPERATLY needs some clearing out. Won't you be a doll and clear it for me? I can't pay you, of course, but I'll let you drink from the spicket.

And as for Kelly doing things other than what YOU want him to do...

The guy is a musician, and a damn good one! The fact that he engages in more than one genre only amplifies this guys talent. In other words, what good is a chef if he can only cook one dish? Kelly has earned the right to do whatever he hell he feels like doing and if he wants to make any kind of music, then so be it. You don't have to like everything he does.

By the way, Cliff Burton used to jam along to Mozart recordings. Does that disqualify him from the "School of Cool and Credibility" you personally erected?

If I came across too strong, too bad, but I've taken GREAT issue with people who think musicians should labor in squallor. I have a family too, so you better believe I'd do whatever I need to do to keep them fed, clothed, etc.

Oh yeah, welcome to the board. :emot-hand

http://img95.imageshack.us/img95/8469/mtalkingabout9zf.gif (http://imageshack.us)

[cod_fury]

Music isn't about making money all the time you know it can be enjoying creating things with your imagination and being free.

[bassman11]

Man I really dont like to argue about any of this because I respect peoples opinion but to that guy that doesnt know what the fuck his talking about I like to say some things first of all you have just pissed me the fuck off asshole you dont konw the first thing why we are doing this and Ill tell you dick is for the fans out there that to this day I stand here playing music at 34 fucking years old and Ive done more than you can ever think of doing in 50 of your fucking life time so dont sit there writing pretentious shit that you know nothing about just to say one thing I payed out of my own pocket to fly to atlanta to reherse if thats no comitment and doing it for our fans that has stuck with us all this years then I dont know what is.

And I dont know how old you are you unaprreciative prick but you were probably rubbing shit on your face while I was recording records that I didnt make a fucking pennie from and if we get a littel money from this than what the fuck is it to you dick.

As I write I get more pissed and feel like bashing your fucking skull and I deeply apologise to my other brothers man you guys on this forum are the reason why I came back to metal is every time I read this you guys make me want to be in music.

And I thank each and every one of you and if you ever see me on the sreet Ill treat you with the most respect and gratitude.

I dont have anything else much to say

But before I go to this guy if we are ever near were you are come and see me so we can really talk I apologise to you to for my out burst Im calm now.

Tony Choy

[seedsofthesuffering]

Totally understand how that top post will infuriate the band. Just remember, there are always one or two "individuals" who enjoy to come along and piss on the bonfire. I don't know why they do it, but it's more of an attention seeking thing than anything else I believe.
There is no way in the world this reunion is a bad thing -- Atheist reunion is just what metal needs right now in my opinion, and to come back and hit the world with the Unquestionable line-up is beyond my wildest dreams.
Fucking killer news!

[WhoCares]

Tony 1 Eldritch 0

Tony, I owe you a beer at Bloodstock... and what ever other festival we both end up at... Some people's children eh?

[phodg]

Tony - don't let people like this wind you up, man. Keep doing what you're doing. There are more of us here who appreciate it than those who don't.

[bassman11]

your so right but man we put are heart and soul into this and it just upsets me to see people like this say such stupid things like this individule.

You guys know that this bussiness is hard enough as it is and we just try to have fun at it and who is this guy to judge us anyways .

I think he owes all of us an apology starting with the fans of this forum the people that really matter.

I could give a good fuck about myself but it is just so unfair.

And let me tell you something I was nice wait to Kelly sees this.

Tony

[AndThePsychicSaw]

And let me tell you something I was nice wait to Kelly sees this.


Man, I can't wait to see what Kelly has to say. Afterall, this guy shit on Kelly's other projects too, for no reason what-so-ever.

But man, we all apreciate what you guys are doing so much like. Don't let some moron throw you all off. I really hope you get a cd or dvd done I want to see it so bad! I live in a shithole where no bands ever come near (mainly because we are on an island) so all i can hope for is a live cd or dvd haha. Keep shreddin dude.:hbang32en

[Reincremation]

hey, i was rubbing shit in my face when piece of time came out, i'm only 16 haha.


great post tony! the dude who started this doesn't know what he's talking about. we're all very glad that you have come back to metal, don't let some douche get you down.

[quigonkick]

Tony, I owe you a drink of your choice as well. I can't wait to shake your hand. Your efforts and sacrifices over the years have not gone unappreciated. Not by a long shot. That goes for the rest of the guys as well.

[WhoCares]

Tony 1, Kelly 1, Eldritch 0

[Martinator]

Well, I hope that was "therapeutic", if nothing else :p
I don't think any of us who actually followed the coming together of this series of shows ever doubted the righteousness of the band's intentions, and I for one would love to make up for living in Seattle when the guys toured my home turf. So how about a lock on this one? I think Eldritch (after the song from my favorite band?) got his fill...

[metaldick]

Well, I had the privledge of meeting Kelly, and Tony when they were here in Atlanta. It was great. They were so focused on the music and getting it right and with the same feeling and heart as before.

I've met musicians in the past who weren't very nice, and it can be very disappointing when you've liked them for so long. Meeting Kelly and Tony was just the opposite. They couldn't have been nicer or more appreciative than they were. They signed my UP cd with smiles on there faces. Steve, Tony, and Kelly are the nicest guys. You will enjoy meeting them. They don't sigh when you ask them to sign stuff, they ask you what's your name :)

Thanks to Kelly, Tony, and Steve for living up to what I thought you guys might be like. Can't wait to hang with you guys again!

Rich

[Bassshredder]

MD is right Ive met/hung with hundreds of bands throughout the years and it really sucks when theyre rude dicks and your just standing there like,dude,I got all your albums,7 shirts,been to 5 tours and your going to treat me like shit?Ive met all the Atheist members at one time or another and they are very cool people who DO appreciate their fans not just now because of the renewed interest.Im talking back in the day Piece tour,UP tour evreyone Ive seen them meet was treated with respect.And its not easy to be friendly when youre doing death tours,shitty conditions,no money,tired,hung over night after night.Yet they were still always cool.Also I dont think anyone plays Death metal of any style for money.Its for love of the music,the scene,and is the only genre that is self supported by the fans.You should never say an extreme band is in it for the money,esp. not the mighty Atheist

[Eldritch]

What a sensitive lot of intellectuals. Great how you respond to fans. Ask a question, get called an "ass hat". Do you wear those?? Never seen one. And "shit rubbing" must be a thing they do where Choy is from. Not into feces. I never "stole mp3's" either. I bought stuff from bands like yourself with my earned money. I had to "feed myself and put a roof over my head" too, so maybe we are not so different. I thought the questions I asked were quite relevant. I appreciate the fact that Kelly and Tony both would at least respond. I didn't call you guys names and insult you directly. I said I did not care for Kelly's other bands. I disagree that doing all these different bands make you better than any other musician. I think quality speaks for itself. And Tony, didn't you disappear from Atheist at one point??? A fan may be concerned about your dedication. Knowing that you want to "bash my skull" I guess shows that you are "into it". It seems like you guys are very defensive when anyone who liked the band would likely want to know these things? I did not attack anyone's playing or writing, so why the threatened masculinity??? Why is it such a big fucking deal to ask you guys to maybe do some new stuff??? And to hold you both to your reasoning---that you are playing again for the fans that didn't see you before---am I right in assuming there will be a US tour of all the cities you didn't play since you are a US band?

[WhoCares]

I think you should re-read your own first post.

I don't get the point other than to make Kelly some cash.

As you can see from their responses, they probably won't make much if anything from these dates.

I hope Atheist without Roger isn't taking the path of Metallica without Cliff.

Remind me, how many albums have Metallica released since Cliffs death?

Everything else between those two quotes is basically a slate of how Kelly's work isn't metal enough for you. I feel sorry for you, your taste is so narrow you have nothing better to do then winge at a reunion of a classic band (and the chance to see them live) because they AREN'T releasing a new album...

Tragic.

I'm the first to admit Neurotica isn't really my thing, nor is Unheard, nor Big Machine. Yeah Kelly did it, yeah some of it may not be as metal, prog, whatever... but it's his work... it's his creativity. Some people do like it.

Did it ever occur to you that the creativity of Atheist was the combination of Roger, Kelly, Steve, and Rand together, when they were much younger, and had a different view on life? And that they have changed views, grown a lot, and sadly, we no longer have Roger with us? I'd rather not see them put out a mediocre effort under the name of Atheist. (although, I admit, with todays technology, and their years of experience, it definitely would raise the bar) If they choose to do something under another name, great, I'll check it out. And judge it after I've heard it, not before. No matter what they do, they will always have Atheist as it is. Untarnished.

[phodg]

And to hold you both to your reasoning---that you are playing again for the fans that didn't see you before---am I right in assuming there will be a US tour of all the cities you didn't play since you are a US band?

I'm sure the band will play when and where they can. They're obviously not going to go bankrupt playing places just for the sake of playing them. You sound as if you feel they owe you something. They owe you nothing. As I said before, dude, if you have a problem with the band then don't go and see them or buy the reissues. I doubt they'd miss you.

[Tyler Durden]

What a sensitive lot of intellectuals. Great how you respond to fans. Ask a question, get called an "ass hat". Do you wear those?? Never seen one. And "shit rubbing" must be a thing they do where Choy is from. Not into feces. I never "stole mp3's" either. I bought stuff from bands like yourself with my earned money. I had to "feed myself and put a roof over my head" too, so maybe we are not so different. I thought the questions I asked were quite relevant. I appreciate the fact that Kelly and Tony both would at least respond. I didn't call you guys names and insult you directly. I said I did not care for Kelly's other bands. I disagree that doing all these different bands make you better than any other musician. I think quality speaks for itself. And Tony, didn't you disappear from Atheist at one point??? A fan may be concerned about your dedication. Knowing that you want to "bash my skull" I guess shows that you are "into it". It seems like you guys are very defensive when anyone who liked the band would likely want to know these things? I did not attack anyone's playing or writing, so why the threatened masculinity??? Why is it such a big fucking deal to ask you guys to maybe do some new stuff??? And to hold you both to your reasoning---that you are playing again for the fans that didn't see you before---am I right in assuming there will be a US tour of all the cities you didn't play since you are a US band?

Man... some people just don't know when to STFU. I guess you never got much attention from your parents when you were a child...

READ, Cocksmoker!!!

In your first post, you came onto this board in attack formation. Shooting down the band, their reasons for reforming, subliminal personal insults about how certain members had disappeared from the Metal scene (and the debatably non-metal bands they chose to play in after Atheist split). You were basically attacking them all for having the audacity to live their lives in whatever way they chose or had to, since Atheist split. You can deny it all you want bitch - but we can all read your words clear as day.

Here's the deal... Atheist split years ago - What the fuck do you want them to do... stay cryogenically frozen in the fuckin' 90's, just to please you and put your mind at ease that they're reforming for the 'right' reasons??? Of course the band has 'moved on' since then, progression is what brings us life. Why shouldn't the band try some new musical shit out? Is it a crime to have individual thought now, or did I miss something all these years?

Like has been said before - these guys obviously still had music in their veins after Atheist split - but what's the point of writing the same musical style as Atheist if they're NOT going to 'perform' it as Atheist. Music is what these guys do best - they have extraordinary talent in other ways which they couldn't express in Atheist - so why shouldn't they play other forms of music and explore those avenues to grow as musicians?

At the end of the day, I personally don't give a shit if all these years Kelly or any other past member of Atheist has been singing Mary Hopkins numbers on acoustic guitar in a wine bar Sunday lunchtime. I don't give a shit if any of the members chose to stop wearing Metal t-shirts in favour of polo-neck sweaters either. What they do with their personal lives is THEIR OWN FUCKIN' BUSINESS!!!

The band have recognized how much of a demand is out there for their music & also for their live performances. It speaks fuckin' volumes the fact that considering all their lives have moved on in different ways - that they are ALL making sacrifices in their personal lives and pulling together to focus on reuniting (especially for the fans) to give us one more PIECE OF TIME we thought we'd never see or experience again...

I for one, am fucking grateful for their dedication towards putting these shows together. I can't deny that I'd love to hear another Atheist album, but that is not my choice, only my want. Whether they choose to write as Athest or as another band after these shows - I will be happy to give my full attention to what they do next, together or seperately. I'm also happy that Gnostic is around, as there's a lot of the old Atheist vibe back in there, albeit in a different incarnation - however there are plenty of bands out there who have since taken Atheist's concept and ran with it down different paths - their music & Legacy STILL lives on...

Now, you've had 2 band members on here explaining their side of things, if you can't fucking accept these reasons from the band themselves, then fuck off home and cry to mama... :rocket:

[metaldick]

Well, I had to share these 2 pics from last week. One is of Tony Choy with my bro Stephen Morley (bass player for Gnostic) who he'd never met. And Kelly with my little bro Kevin who he'd never met. The looks on Tony's and Kelly's faces just show how much they enjoy hanging out with their fans. Just 2 cool dudes.

Enjoy

http://www.morleyarts.com/post/tony&stephen.jpg

http://www.morleyarts.com/post/kelly&kevin.jpg

:hbang32en

[Tyler Durden]

Well, I had to share these 2 pics from last week. One is of Tony Choy with my bro Stephen Morley (bass player for Gnostic) who he'd never met. And Kelly with my little bro Kevin who he'd never met. The looks on Tony's and Kelly's faces just show how much they enjoy hanging out with their fans. Just 2 cool dudes.

Enjoy

http://www.morleyarts.com/post/tony&stephen.jpg

http://www.morleyarts.com/post/kelly&kevin.jpg

:hbang32en

That's fuckin' awesome! I'm so envious!!! Although, it's probably best that I don't meet them - or I may find myself dry-humping their legs in excitement :emot-danc I'm sure the guys won't appreciate the extremity of my elations...

[WhoCares]

Well, I had to share these 2 pics from last week. One is of Tony Choy with my bro Stephen Morley (bass player for Gnostic) who he'd never met. And Kelly with my little bro Kevin who he'd never met. The looks on Tony's and Kelly's faces just show how much they enjoy hanging out with their fans. Just 2 cool dudes.

Enjoy

http://www.morleyarts.com/post/tony&stephen.jpg

http://www.morleyarts.com/post/kelly&kevin.jpg

:hbang32en

so which of the morleys are you?

[metaldick]

ha ha ha. The dumb ass Morley who took these pictures and then realized when I got home that I didn't have one of me with any of them :(

Maybe next time

Rich

[WhoCares]

hehe, I have that problem all the time... check the Sex to 9 with Maria link in my signature... it's my wife's radio show... I end up taking all the pics... but I usually get to meet everyone too which is cool.

I shouldn't complain, my mug is in there a couple times..

[SteveFlynn]

Fellas fellas, can't we all just get along? ;-). Well, I certainly can't add much more than my friends and band mates. My friend (Eldritch) your initial post was quite negative and attack oriented. You surely must have expected a strong rebuttal to your attacks... .I mean, after all, you're posting on the Atheist forum....not the "Dark Angel" or "Death Metal" or "General Music" forum where somebody raised the subject.

I don't think any of us took it personally, as we've been through a hell of a lot more than just an uninformed rant in a forum. It just irks people when you come in lobbing grenades without having a full understanding of your target or objectives.

BELIEVE ME, this isn’t about money. They (industry types) couldn't compensate us enough, nor would the market bare the level of compensation we'd be entitled to, for what this whole reunion thing is requiring of each of us for it to go off without a hitch. You've got 5 band members who live in different states trying to come together to play music that 1. Hasn’t been played as a unit in over 13 years 2. isn't very simplistic or easy to just pull off without considerable effort. Plus, we each have complex lives with multiple complex responsibilities both music related and not... trust me... I'd love for each of us to make $10 grand each PLUS merchandise for each show.... who wouldn't want to get paid for something you shed blood, sweat, tears, and human life for for a large chunk of your existence?

I’m going to be completely honest with you publicly. At the end of the day, we realize that the Atheist reunion stuff will lead to many other great things, not the least of which is reuniting with old friends and bringing new musical projects to light that would not have otherwise seen it. But, when the discussion first started there was no huge buzz about Atheist, no understanding of how strong the reaction would be, no significant money on the table, or anything like it seems to have become, (Hell, we weren’t even sure anybody would buy the re-issues) but we eagerly jumped at the chance to play together again regardless of the circumstance. We all, as most musicians, just have a passion for what we do and LOVE playing. It’s just that simple. The fact that we all will have an opportunity to do other things (Gnostic’s record deal, Atheist DVD, the other fusion metal project, etc.) resulting from this is just icing on the cake. And surely you wouldn't deny people the ability to take advantage of an opportunity based upon good, old-fashioned hard-ass fucking work, now would you?

You also have to understand that part of what made Atheist whatever it became was the fact that, yes, I LOVE death metal and listen to it regularly....I'm even doing some blasting in the new Gnostic stuff.... but it was our other influences that were FAR, FAR from metal that made Atheist what it is/was by combining those elements.... so, it should be no surprise that each of us did really different things after spending a decade doing nothing but extreme/prog metal... Think my friend...think before you speak.... A wise man once said it's better to be thought a fool than to open your mouth and prove them right... not that you're a fool...but just keep that in mind. Get informed first....THEN come to the forum and bash us.....at least then you're working with facts. Nobody in the band will begrudge you for not liking the music or the new projects we all are doing away from Atheist (like any musician, we’re used to it), but just to come in and bash stuff like a drunkard in a china shop with a baseball bat won’t go without a strong rebuke.

Now, if you have some legit questions about Atheist, Gnostic, Unheard, Neurotica, Big Machine, the upcoming shows, what we’ve all been doing the past 13 years etc.… I know that I and my peeps here will be eager to answer.

Take it easy and I hope to see you at upcoming Atheist, Gnostic, or other shows….

Steve

[metaldick]

Oooops. After seeing Flynn's post, I realize that I left him out of those earlier links. Here's a current one of him with Gnostic for those who are interested.

http://www.morleyarts.com/post/gnostic-bandpic.jpg

Later

Rich

[Eldritch]

I re-read all the posts after viewing the pictures of Tony and Kelly "being cool to their fans". You were real cool to me in the posts. I see that you guys are hung up on the money. Kelly, you even quote dollar amounts, but you aren't about the money. I questioned it and you guys go on and on about the money. There would only be a few reasons to do a reunion. If the money doesn't matter why all the whining about "getting reamed" from other companies and such. Was it you Kelly that signed those deals? You seem very proud of the new one YOU signed on YOUR website. I questioned the motives/direction due to the past history of the band (Flynn quit and Choy disappeared) and your other projects not being very innovative LIKE ATHEIST. I don't understand the sensitivity about new material. I cannot buy it's out of respect for the name or Roger, etc. If that was true, why was ELEMENTS done with other guys? I still like the music, just don't get the logic. I'm perfectly okay with the name calling, scorekeeping, etc. I dished it out, I can take it.

[Transient]

let me just say, props to kelly for giving a shout out to younger fans. im 17 and right, "just" getting into atheist (only 2 years or so ago did i discover them, i was so happy about the re-releases though)

a lot of your original fans may have moved on but im not the only newish fan , thats for sure

[WhoCares]

I cannot buy it's out of respect for the name or Roger, etc. If that was true, why was ELEMENTS done with other guys?

Contractual obligation. For a "fan", you sure haven't got a fucking clue about anything to do with Atheist. I suggest you read up, and then maybe you'll shut up... then again this is probably more attention then your parents ever gave you...

[Eldritch]

I just wanted someone from the camp to say "contractual obligation". Uh huh.

[Eldritch]

Now I've got a good clue.

[Eldritch]

All this started for me by reading the contradictions on the internet, Kelly's site, and Blabbermouth. I wanted someone to clear it up. By the way, I have more clues, but my point is not to demonstrate my "history" of the band, but to understand the "future". If that garners names and comments about my family and other irrelevant attacks, so be it. It's a classic case of distracting the questioning person from the point by calling him names. It's called an "ad hominen" which translates to "to the man". Whether my family loves me or not doesn't have shit to do with questions I have posed to the band.

[Eldritch]

So long Atheists. I was a fan. I will judge you by your future output instead of any sneaking suspicions I may have. Keep it real, keep it honest, and keep the funny namecalling cause I and many others here obviously dig it.

[AndThePsychicSaw]

Eldritch, just quit while you are ahead. You are wrong, and you aren't going to be right... just let it go dude.

[Tyler Durden]

I re-read all the posts after viewing the pictures of Tony and Kelly "being cool to their fans". You were real cool to me in the posts. I see that you guys are hung up on the money. Kelly, you even quote dollar amounts, but you aren't about the money. I questioned it and you guys go on and on about the money. There would only be a few reasons to do a reunion. If the money doesn't matter why all the whining about "getting reamed" from other companies and such. Was it you Kelly that signed those deals? You seem very proud of the new one YOU signed on YOUR website. I questioned the motives/direction due to the past history of the band (Flynn quit and Choy disappeared) and your other projects not being very innovative LIKE ATHEIST. I don't understand the sensitivity about new material. I cannot buy it's out of respect for the name or Roger, etc. If that was true, why was ELEMENTS done with other guys? I still like the music, just don't get the logic. I'm perfectly okay with the name calling, scorekeeping, etc. I dished it out, I can take it.

Are you a fucking Spasongotard or what??? :bonk:

Get this clear cum-socket... the reunion IS NOT ABOUT THE FUCKING MONEY!!!

Do you think money just arrives at these bands doors on a fucking magic carpet? Back in the day, most of these bands signed to very small budget independant record labels, as due to the nature of the music - the major labels wouldn't fucking touch them. Each band made their respective choice on which label they would choose to fuck them over nicely, as that was unfortunately common practice back then. In regards to album releases & touring - the independant labels never have the money to throw around on lavish extensive tours & mass album releases. Therefore, a shitoad of studio recording time & touring was sponsored very minimal or non-existantly by the record labels - and fully by the band themselves by running up a multitude of stupendous credit card debts on hotels, day to day living expenses, hiring of self driven vans & paying for the fuel to run it (not fuck off tour buses with a driver) which they would have to sleep in... practically in each others pockets on top of their stage gear if they can't afford a hotel due to lack of merchandise sales at each gig. Not to mention being fucked over by promoters at each city promising the band a cash sum (which the band DEPEND on to help finance the tour) and either not delivering, or only providing a small percentage of what was agreed...

Don't you think that Atheist DESERVE(D) to be treated better for their sacrifices??? I FUCKING DO!!! Given that oppressive musical climate back then, I'm honestly surprised the band held it together for as long as they did. Atheist, and many bands of their genre were going past the boundaries and living on the edge of a fucking razor for their love of their art, the recording & performing of it worldwide... this gives a whole new concept to the term EXTREME METAL. You're damn right it was extreme... onstage & off! I dare say the band would have loved nothing more than to have their tours sponsored by Gillette or Calvin Klein underwear like Lica, it would have taken a shitload of pressure off the band and enabled them to get on with the job at hand - playing their fucking music to the masses & having a shitload of fun in the process. The fact the band went to these extraordinary lengths under those circumstances to make their fans happy is a testament to just how fucking genuine they were & still are in their intent!!! As far as I'm concerned, Atheist are fucking entitled to ALL the money from their previous & current endeavours. They've fucking earned it in abundance...

The sad fact of the matter is, like Kelly & Tony previously said - the band are STILL self-financing their current reunion - and if they're lucky they'll be able to afford a fucking McDonalds Happy Meal with any money left over from expenses. Oh yeah... they're all REALLY gonna be able to put deposits on those Ferrarri's they've been after, and move into those Mansions they had their eyes on in Beverley Hills after a couple of Festival dates :flipoff: Give the band a fucking break...

The members of Atheist are each individually entitled to do whatever the fuck it takes to keep themselves from calling it a day and working in a fucking bank. How they earn their money is none of my or your fucking business asshole!!! Instead of questioning the bands ethics behind the reunion, perhaps you should question just how much you love the cock???

Elements, was called 'fulfilling record contract obligations'. From what I recall, Steve left Atheist to pursue a further education at college. I take it he's not entitled to an education now? It was widely reported at that time in the music press that there was internal conflict within the band. Kelly, Rand & Tony obviously thought it was worth the struggle to just get the album finished. 40 days to write & record an album start to finish, and considering the masterpiece it turned out to be - I tend to think it was worth the effort. It's one of their most underrated discs & certainly way more progressive than the concept of progression for its time. The band then dissolved shortly after...

If the circumstances were right, perhaps if Steve hadn't decided on an education and the Unquestionable Presence line-up had continued to work together - Elements may have sounded a lot different to what it is. However, there are so many if's shrouding that era of the band that it's pointless to speculate. With the band reuniting with the Unquestionable Presence line-up, it could be their way of saying - this is the Classic Atheist sound / Elements was a damn fine album, but we fired at our best on the Piece Of Time album / As Roger is unfortunately no longer with us, the next possible best line-up is with Mr. Choy on bass. This tells me that the band actually DO give a fuck about what they're trying to achieve here... if they didn't give a fuck, it would not be Atheist, but Kelly Shaefer's Atheist, plus backing band.

At this stage it doesn't matter WHY they are back together to do one off shows when they can make the time - it only matters that they ARE doing them. Perhaps this is what you should focus on instead of acting like a keyboard hero whilst hiding behind you mom's skirt...

[zyquix]

you say you don't steal mp3's, but the explanation for why Elements has a different lineup is right in the booklet, and you say you're a fan. I don't know why a fan wouldn't read the liner notes. So you're lying about one of those.

And it was never a 'secret' that Elements was made because of contractual obligation. And even if it was, it wouldn't change the fact that that album is fuckin killer. You've been trying to prove this whole time that they're only doing these shows for money, and now you learn Elements was a result of contractual obligation, and you act like you proved your point. Does that have anything to do with these shows? It has nothing to do with it.

So you're not a fan anymore? Good fuckin riddance. It doesn't sound like you ever were a fan. Just because of this arguement, you're suddenly not a fan? Did this thread change the Atheist music at all? Nice reasoning.

[AndThePsychicSaw]

I don't have the cd's yet, but I only started listening to Atheist about 2 months ago. The Elements cd is in a store like 45 minutes from here. When I get a chance to get there I cam going to pick that up for sure! And I am going to ask if they can order in Piece Of Time and UP. If not, I will buy it online.

I really hope the new atheist shirts will be avaliable online!

[cod_fury]

I must confess that when i first go into Atheist there were no reissues yet.I downloaded one of two piece of time songs then I finally found a full Elements download. I downloaded Elements and loved it but now I own Piece of Time, Unquestionable Presence but I'm still missing elements lol i really need to buy it... i feel bad for downloading it but i will eventually get it :emot-whis

lol andthephycicsaw you need to hurry and buy those.

[AndThePsychicSaw]

I must confess that when i first go into Atheist there were no reissues yet.I downloaded one of two piece of time songs then I finally found a full Elements download. I downloaded Elements and loved it but now I own Piece of Time, Unquestionable Presence but I'm still missing elements lol i really need to buy it... i feel bad for downloading it but i will eventually get it :emot-whis

lol andthephycicsaw you need to hurry and buy those.

oh believe me I will!. I download music, and if it is good I buy the albums. There are still some atheist songs I haven't heard yet because im going to wait :FIREdevil


I think I will be getting to that store this saturday, so hopefully I can, and elements will be mine!

[cod_fury]

There are still some atheist songs I haven't heard yet

Blasphemy

[Reincremation]

oh believe me I will!. I download music, and if it is good I buy the albums. There are still some atheist songs I haven't heard yet because im going to wait :FIREdevil


I think I will be getting to that store this saturday, so hopefully I can, and elements will be mine!


yet you pick an atheist-related user name? c'mon dude. stop posing.











just kidding haha, but you better get out and buy those!

[motherman]

Eldritch seems to know really really much about Atheist.. i'm sure that is why he talks pure shit too. How necessary did you feel making this thread when you (i hope you could) figure out that it would piss out many people? Do yourself a favour and stay away from here, jerk.

[AndThePsychicSaw]

Blasphemy

By not listening to a few songs from each album, it drives me to buy them a lot more haha. I always do that, espessically with new leaked albums. If i hear like 6 or 7 songs and I love it, I will wait to hear the others when I buy it! And yeah. I am going to that store on Saturday so I will have elements :hbang32en

[unheard1]

Hi,
well I read the whole fucking topic and I couldn't stay silent!
I never been a huge Atheist fan, but I reckon their style and music is something special and that comes from deep inside, done with soul and heart.
I'm a musician myself, toured the world, been involved with rip off companies, lots of fans and people who hates/hated us... NOW, This guy obviously doesn't know shit about how the life of an extreme metal musician is!
You have to fight every single day, dealing and struggling with your own private life to throw what you got in your guts to the people out there, without getting any cash out of it ( not that we do play for money, otherwise believe me I would do some Techno crap or Rn'b)!
I understand very well the point of Kelly and the guys ,w hy they do wanna reform the band for a few shows and especially the fact that they do NOT wanna release a new record of Atheist for the reasons Tony or Kelly exposed!
I raise my cup and I say BRAVO! That's real respect and dedication and honesty!
As I said, I never was an Atheist fan and didn't really knew anythign about the guys except what I read here and there, back then, BUT man (Eldritch) , I have to thank you very, very much!
Why? because because of your post I saw how those guys are and they gained something tonight : my respect and support!
So, isn't that a bit ironic my friend? your post has the complete opposite effect that you hoped and increase Atheist positive image int he hearts of their fans and respect in the eyes of others!

kelly, tony and Steve keep the flame up and congratulation for your dedication towards your fans and the metal scene!

regards from the Enthroned camp!
Thanks a lot brother, we sure appreciate those words. Best of luck in all you do, hopefully we can share a beer a t a future show Cheers Kelly/Atheist

[Nornagest]

no worries, it's meant!
thanx for your wishes and concerning the beer no worries, same goes for you if we play one of these days near Atlanta

[WhoCares]

no worries, it's meant!
thanx for your wishes and concerning the beer no worries, same goes for you if we play one of these days near Atlanta

Only Steve Flynn is in Atlanta... Kelly's near Tampa...

[Nornagest]

Only Steve Flynn is in Atlanta... Kelly's near Tampa...

don't know really, as I said; I'm not really into Atheist and after all...who cares? ;)

[immolator6]

i'm a newer atheist fan i can admit. i am very excited about the reunion too and have read these posts and other stuff online recently also. i think eldritch (obviously a watchtower fan)sounds like a bitter fan from a ways back. he was really trying to get a response by the way he asks his questions. i can see why you guys got pissed. but i am trying to understand both views also. i think inquiring about new songs and the decisions to not play any was justified as any fan would want to know. he never said anything about getting rich off it, just whether it was done for some quick cash. it's offensive but not exactly the same. i think your real fans know you aren't in it for money only over a decade later. i do think eldritch has real concerns under neath his verbal attacks that are worrisome for a diehard as he calls himself. he implies that he is a fan or at least wanting to be a fan of steve's new band gnostic, who the webmaster says the guitarist playing kelly's parts is from. he is right in that there aren't pictures or threads about the guitars for the tour. i don't want to speculate cause it is the band's business. i too would be excited for a fusion project with kelly and steve on it, but i see where a fan would wonder why after however many years if the two just got back together, why not write an atheist fusion project? no disrespect to steve (you are a god drummer man)but i liked elements too even if it was done to please the label. it is unique especially in the riffing department. rand is also the only one who hasn't responded. maybe cause eldritch didn't attack him like the other guys. with that name he must be a disappointed watchtower fan who is taking it out on you guys. of course all you guys here seem to have no problem defending yourselves! and eldritch you better watch out for tony and tyler durden. if tony bashes heads like his bass you are in for it!!!

[WhoCares]

Thinking of how angry Tony seemed, and him beating someone up makes me have flashbacks of seeing some guy steal/stagedive with a pitcher of beer belonging to the vocalist of Razor (while he was on stage), and the Bass Player jumping into the audience to beat the crap out of the idiot that did it... it was kind of funny at the time...

ah, those were the days...

[Martinator]

Well, I'm a big (in every sense of the word) fan of WatchTower myself (my personal favorites), still hoping for Mathematics to be released at some point (cos metal *really* needs it, these days), but as I indicated before, I certainly don/t question the Atheist guys' motives. Heck, even if the guys made some money off of it, that would be fine - better than fine! After all the hard work put in and making such ground-breaking albums in a genre so overlooked, I'd give them kudos for striking it rich! But if you've kept up with the history of Atheist in the slightest, and take the trouble to read how this reunion has come about, there really is no reason to ask questions like Eldritch did - certainly not the way (s)he did, and it would be even sillier if it's taking out WT-related frustrations on the Atheist guys. I don't, and if I have a beef with Doug or Ron (WT), I'll call them, not start a thread on some other band's board with basically slanderous implications. At best, it's counterproductive, and worst case (though I think the guys are having way too much fun for that to happen) it might piss of the members of the band to the point where they toss in the towel again, and leave the rest of us with a bastard of a disappointment. I'm very much hoping to get a chance to see them this time around, since I missed them 15 years ago, and even if some of the responses were less than diplomatic, you can hardly blame fans, old and new, for being pissed at the way Eldritch put those unfounded concerns (to put it euphemistically) forward. I'm still hoping this topic can get locked, though...

[immolator6]

i am new to the forum and i commented above about the guitarists for the reformation. like i said it is not my business/decision, but i noticed on the frank emmi thread that kelly said they were trying to get him out of jail. to play or just as a friend?? not trying to piss everyone off like eldritch again, just trying to follow everyone's posts. so it is rand and the dude corpseworm that whocares mentions?? was frank in the picture and now isn't?? seems like ex members all go to jail. you guys must be some mean motherfuckers or something...hahahaha

[immolator6]

martinator, i too love the mighty tower!! i was just guessing since the guys name is eldritch and that is one of their tunes. i read in the re-release notes that doug was approached to join and wasn't interested. i'm guessing the word eldritch isn't a favorite
around atheist. i gave up hope for a new tower release like decades ago it seems. energetic is godly!! at least ron is doing something. looking forward to more spas ink and machinations of dementia

[Transient]

props to watchtower fans!!!!! alan tecchio is singing in some band that opened for WASP on the tour thats going on (or as a few weeks ago at least)

i didnt know that till AFTER the concert ,or i would have gone to say hi to him


CONTROL AND RESISTANCE CONTROL AND RESISTANCE CONTROLL

[bassman11]

thank you brother I owe you a beer as well

Tony Choy

[Bassshredder]

Well, at the time WT wasn't doing too badly - of course Ron got his hand problems which sort of ruined WT's future, not too long after that. I have no idea how the Atheist guys look at WT at all, but Doug even passed on Metallica when Cliff passed away - that is, he tried out when invited by them, but never really intended to leave WT behind.

It's good that Ron could at least pick up part of what WT was about when his hands got back into shape, with Spastic Ink, but work on Mathematics has been happening on an on/off kind of basis. It's been a year since Ron and Rick recorded their parts for 6 new songs which they want to shop around, but they weren't too happy with the vocal lines Jason came up with so far, and Doug is probably too busy with his job and family to be able to spend too much time on it. I'm still hoping they'll catch the Mathematics bug again and finish it, and support it with some shows. There's way too little new and exciting stuff happening in metal these days - it's a matter of taste, of course, but really only Necrophagist have really excited me as a new band, over the past ten years or so. My favorites (WT, Death, Atheist, Cynic) haven't changed in 15 years, aside from the addition of Necro, and not for lack of looking around. Could just be me, of course... :p

if you havent already check out Gorod ya might like them drummers kinda lame but the band and songs are pretty interesting

[Martinator]

I'll give them another spin. I may have grown preconceived notions about French/French-Canadian bands, and only listened to them once, but it took me more than that to get past the blast-beats and grunting of Necro as well.

[phodg]

I've never seen Watchtower but I did see Jason McMaster when he was singing for Dangerous Toys.

[quigonkick]

Man, I'm on vacation for a week and I miss this.

Now I've got a good clue.

First time for everything, Eldbitch.

YOU were the one to tie money to this whole thing in the first place, remember? You're acting like they are opening for the Rolling Stones or something, practically labeling them greedy people for doing this. God forbid they do this to have fun. I have a family myself and I'll tell you point blank that if I were in their shoes, I doubt I could do what they are doing without more pay. That's just me. How these guys do it is far beyond me and I have more respect for them than damn near everyone else on the planet.

You, my fecal faced friend, have no idea what it is like to maintain a legacy. You say you work just like the rest of us, so maybe you should have just as much understanding/respect for them NOT doing another album. How can you not?

You've had your eggs scrambled by half the band and don't even know it.

Team Atheist has made me proud!

[unheard1]

We were all WT fans early on, we were not however fans of the vocals for obvious reasons, it was just to annoying, but the musicianship is fucking other planetary!!!
They truly have to still be the most technical band ever, just insane shifting of time. I prefer the JM stuff to the techhio shit. but roger loved control and resistance. It was a huge deal for him when he met him at our show in texas, he got his picture taken with him and of course 2 weeks later was buried with it. I met up with JM while playing with neurotica he had a new band called Godzilla Motor Company. they were basically a rock band, post Dangerous toys(what the fuck was that about) much heavier, pretty cool actually. anyways cheers Kelly

[cod_fury]

yea those vocals on Control and Resistance are pretty annoying but god is that some technical music there.

[Martinator]

Dangerous toys(what the fuck was that about)

:lol:

I hear ya. Jason isn't too hung up on technicality of the music of the band he's with, though, and I think he saw it as a good opportunity to make some money, more than anything. He's a nice guy, but seems more interested in living the rock star life, even if he hasn't raked in the bux yet, than going for musical challenges like WatchTower and risking not getting out of the home studio... But that's just my impression, anyway. He's happy enough to join in and help out whenever WT has some work for him, and he was supposed (and as far as I know still is supposed) to record the vocals for Mathematics.

I also agree with your comments regarding Alan's vocals. I may have commented on this on here, before, as well, but I visited them in Berlin in the studio, and Alan had just started recording vocals. Among a few others, he was recording The Fall Of Reason at the time, and it was a *big* challenge for him. I personally also don't really care for his style of vocals: like Bruce Dickinson, he sort of "floats" (for lack of a better word) to the right key/note, which I find really annoying. If only John Arch would've said "yes" when he was asked to step in for Jason.

In any case, WatchTower to me are still the benchmark in technical metal, and Atheist are probably the ones who ever came closest to incorporate such jazziness in songwriting that in spite of all the breaks and angles still makes sense and grooves. It's nice to hear Roger was a big fan as well. They've been my faves since the release of Energetic, in any case - damn that seems like a long time ago...