Empire State Bastard have officially signed with Roadrunner Records. The fledgling grindcore outfit is the brainchild of Biffy Clyro‘s vocalist/guitarist Simon Neil and Mike Vennart (live Biffy Clyro guitars, ex-Oceansize). They will be launching their first single “Harvest” next week.
Sitting behind the drumkit for the group is the legendary Dave Lombardo, known for his work in Slayer, Mr. Bungle, Testament and many more. Bassist Naomi Macleod (Bitch Falcon) serves as the touring bassist.
Per an official press release:
‘The concept for Empire State Bastard emerged when Neil and Vennart would spend downtime on tour sitting at the back of their bus sharing the heaviest, most avant-garde and confrontational music they could find. Now, a decade on from its conception, the project is finally coming to fruition with Vennart writing the songs and recording all the guitars, and Neil focusing on vocals and lyrics.
The two have emerged with a collection of songs which adventurously probes slamming hardcore in the vein of Siege; the frenetic, visceral thrash of Slayer; the claustrophobic sludge of Melvins; the freeform vocal dexterity of Mike Patton; and the gargantuan stoner riffs of Sleep. It’s a band that’s rooted in the tradition of metal’s forefathers but informed by more recent waves of leftfield aggression.’
For now, a teaser of “Harvest” has been shared below, while the band have the below shows booked:
03/26 Glasgow, UK – Cathouse
03/27 Manchester, UK – Rebellion Club
03/28 London, UK – The Underworld
06/15-18 Clisson, FRA – Hellfest
07/05-08 Cheltenham, UK – 2000Trees
08/16-19 Compton Martin, UK – ArcTanGent
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