Seattle, WA (2006-present)It is not often in today's metal climate that ingenuity rules the day, especially inside the United States. Surely talent still exists, but for the more acutely discerning music fan, the status-quo is usually quite tasteless.
Although it can be enticing for an artist to merely imitate another, and entire careers can be rooted in such a concept, 7 Horns 7 Eyes has never been interested in trends. And despite the challenge of forging a distinctive musical identity, neither have they arduously obsessed over how to stand out.
The solution, as the band has demonstrated, lies in an understanding and appreciation for music, at a level much deeper than genre. It goes without saying that 7H7E can be categorized as metal, but the culmination of their songwriting is the product of a wide range of musical inspiration, as is characteristic of every artist who has stood the test of time.
Factor in a high standard of natural creative sensibility, a healthy academic knowledge of music and rhythm, and a steadfast desire to invest serious time and effort into their craft, and it becomes evident that 7 Horns 7 Eyes is a band set to flourish.
The Seattle quintet brings a fresh sound to a genre that many would argue has gotten stale. Rich with atmosphere, technical proficiency, and tasteful restraint, the result is heavy, epic, dense, emotive, and is an artistically true listening experience.
It is no accident that in 2009, 7 Horns 7 Eyes was one of a hand-picked collection of bands invited to play Demon Hunter's "Huntour", or that they have garnered attention from all corners of the music industry, and have landed artist endorsements with Paiste and Ampeg.
2010 will not only see the dawning of the band's debut full length release, but also promises much touring and exposure to a wider range of markets than the average metal band is typically able to attract.
Today's metal climate may indeed be in need of more ingenuity, but the truth is that for those who know where to look, there are still respectable bands who write music that's worth listening to. 7 Horns 7 Eyes is one of those bands.
