If you’re a fan of doom metal and heavy riffs, you might have heard about the new band EYE AM, formed by members of TYPE O NEGATIVE and CROWBAR. This article explores who the members are, their musical backgrounds, and what makes EYE AM a project worth following. Whether you’re into gothic metal, sludge, or just heavy, atmospheric music, this guide is for you.
1. Sal Abruscato – Drummer and Co-Founder
Sal Abruscato, known for his work with TYPE O NEGATIVE and LIFE OF AGONY, is a founding member of EYE AM. His drumming style combines heavy, groove-oriented beats with a dark, atmospheric touch, bringing a distinctive sound to the band. Fans of his previous work will appreciate how he injects his signature style into EYE AM’s music, blending doom metal with gothic influences.
2. Johnny Kelly – Vocalist and Drummer
Johnny Kelly, who has played drums for TYPE O NEGATIVE since 1994 and also contributed vocals, is a key figure in EYE AM. His vocal style ranges from deep, haunting baritone to more aggressive screams, adding emotional depth to the band’s sound. His experience with gothic and doom metal makes him an ideal frontman to lead EYE AM’s dark, immersive compositions.
3. Craig Nunn – Guitarist from Crowbar
Craig Nunn, guitarist for CROWBAR, brings his sludge and doom metal expertise to EYE AM. His guitar riffs are characterized by heavy, downtuned chugging and atmospheric layers that enhance the band’s dark mood. Nunn’s involvement ensures a crushing, gritty sound that fans of Crowbar will find familiar and compelling.
4. Kenny Hickey – Guitarist and Co-Producer
Kenny Hickey, guitarist for TYPE O NEGATIVE, contributes his melodic and atmospheric guitar work to EYE AM. His ability to craft haunting melodies and layered textures elevates the band’s sound, giving it a gothic edge. Hickey’s experience in creating dark, cinematic soundscapes makes his input vital to the project’s unique atmosphere.
5. Additional Collaborators – Expanding the Sound
While the core lineup consists of members from TYPE O NEGATIVE and CROWBAR, EYE AM has also collaborated with other musicians, such as keyboardists and additional vocalists, to add depth and variety. These collaborations help create a richer, more textured sound that explores various facets of doom, gothic, and sludge metal.
6. The Musical Style of EYE AM
EYE AM’s music is a blend of doom metal’s slow, heavy riffs, gothic atmospheres, and sludge’s gritty textures. The band emphasizes mood and atmosphere, often using atmospheric layers and haunting melodies to evoke feelings of despair and introspection. Their sound is both crushing and melodic, appealing to fans of bands like Type O Negative, Crowbar, and My Dying Bride.
7. The Band’s Influences
Members cite influences such as Black Sabbath, Type O Negative, Crowbar, and Paradise Lost. These influences are evident in the band’s use of dark melodies, heavy riffs, and atmospheric soundscapes. The combination of these elements results in a sound that is both familiar to doom metal enthusiasts and fresh in its emotional depth.
8. What Sets EYE AM Apart?
What makes EYE AM stand out is the seamless integration of members’ diverse backgrounds, combining gothic, doom, and sludge elements into a cohesive whole. Their focus on mood and atmosphere, coupled with experienced musicianship, creates a band that offers both heaviness and emotional resonance. Their collaborative approach also allows for experimentation and nuanced songwriting.
9. Upcoming Releases and Live Shows
As of now, EYE AM has announced plans for an EP release and is working on a full-length album expected in the coming year. They are also planning live performances, which promise to be intense and atmospheric experiences, blending visual projections with their heavy sound. Following their social media channels is recommended for updates and tour announcements.
10. How to Support EYE AM
Fans can support EYE AM by purchasing their music on streaming platforms, buying merchandise, and attending live shows. Engaging with their official social media pages also helps boost visibility and encourages the band to continue creating new material. Being an active supporter can help EYE AM establish a lasting presence in the doom and gothic metal scenes.
How to Choose
When selecting music from EYE AM or similar bands, consider what aspects resonate most with you—whether it’s the atmospheric layers, the heaviness of the riffs, or the emotional depth of the vocals. Listening to their influences can also help set expectations; if you enjoy gothic doom with a sludge edge, EYE AM is likely a perfect fit. Pay attention to production quality and live performance footage to gauge their musical authenticity and stage presence.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is EYE AM a side project or a full-time band?
As of now, EYE AM is considered a side project involving members from TYPE O NEGATIVE and CROWBAR. However, they are dedicating significant time to recording and live performances, suggesting a serious commitment.
2. Will EYE AM’s music sound similar to TYPE O NEGATIVE or CROWBAR?
While there are elements reminiscent of both bands—such as gothic atmospheres and sludge riffs—EYE AM aims to forge its own identity, blending these influences into a unique sound.
3. Are there any released tracks from EYE AM?
Yes, they have released singles and teasers online, with their upcoming EP expected to include several more tracks that showcase their signature sound.
4. Can I see EYE AM live soon?
They have announced upcoming live shows, often in the United States and Europe. Keep an eye on their official social media for schedules and ticket information.
5. Where can I listen to EYE AM’s music?
Their music is available on major streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Bandcamp, where you can listen to and purchase their releases.
Final Thoughts
EYE AM represents an exciting convergence of seasoned musicians from the doom, gothic, and sludge scenes, creating a band that promises to deliver dark, atmospheric, and heavy music. With members like Sal Abruscato and Johnny Kelly bringing their extensive experience, and Craig Nunn and Kenny Hickey adding their unique textures, EYE AM is poised to carve out a distinctive space in the metal world. Whether you’re a long-time fan of their previous bands or new to their sound, EYE AM offers a compelling blend of mood, heaviness, and emotional depth worth exploring in the months ahead.
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