Unearth

Unearth in 2006

Unearth-01

Unearth 2016-08-20 Summer Breeze Festival (cropped)

Unearth is an American heavy metal band from Boston, Massachusetts, formed in 1998. The band's style combines elements of melodic death metal, metalcore, and hardcore punk, making them a notable entity within the New Wave of American Heavy Metal movement of the early 2000s. Unearth has been recognized for their extensive touring, energetic live performances, and for contributing significantly to the metalcore genre's popularity and development.

History

Formation and Early Years (1998–2000)

Unearth was formed in 1998 by high school friends Trevor Phipps (vocals), Buz McGrath (guitar), Ken Susi (guitar), Chris Rybicki (bass), and Mike Rudberg (drums). The band quickly made a name for themselves in the local Boston music scene through energetic live shows and a series of self-released demos.

The Stings of Conscience and The Oncoming Storm (2001–2004)

In 2001, Unearth signed with Eulogy Recordings and released their debut album, The Stings of Conscience. This album, along with relentless touring, helped establish the band within the metalcore scene. Their follow-up album, The Oncoming Storm (2004), released under Metal Blade Records, marked a significant step in their career, receiving critical acclaim and increasing their fanbase worldwide.

III: In the Eyes of Fire to Darkness in the Light (2005–2011)

Unearth continued to build on their success with the release of III: In the Eyes of Fire in 2006, which showcased a heavier and more technical sound. The band maintained a rigorous touring schedule, including appearances on major festivals like Ozzfest and Sounds of the Underground. In 2008, they released The March, further refining their sound and lyrical themes. Darkness in the Light (2011) saw the band continuing to evolve, incorporating more melodic elements into their music.

Watchers of Rule and Extinction(s) (2014–Present)

The band's sixth studio album, Watchers of Rule, was released in 2014, followed by Extinction(s) in 2018. Both albums received positive reviews and showcased the band's ability to blend brutality with melody, while also addressing themes such as environmental destruction and personal struggle.

Musical Style and Influences

Unearth's music is characterized by a blend of high-energy riffs, melodic guitar solos, breakdowns, and the dual guitar work of McGrath and Susi. Lyrically, the band often explores themes of personal struggle, political and social issues, and environmental concerns. Influences include bands from the melodic death metal genre, such as At the Gates and In Flames, as well as hardcore punk and traditional heavy metal acts.

Band Members

• Trevor Phipps – vocals
• Buz McGrath – guitar
• Ken Susi – guitar
• Nick Pierce – drums (joined in 2012)
• Chris O'Toole – bass (joined in 2014)

Former members include Mike Rudberg (drums), Chris Rybicki (bass), and several others who played drums and bass in the band's early years.

Discography

• The Stings of Conscience (2001)
• The Oncoming Storm (2004)
• III: In the Eyes of Fire (2006)
• The March (2008)
• Darkness in the Light (2011)
• Watchers of Rule (2014)
• Extinction(s) (2018)

Legacy

Unearth has been instrumental in the development of the metalcore genre, influencing numerous bands with their blend of melody and aggression. Their commitment to touring and their dynamic live shows have earned them a dedicated fanbase and a respected place within the heavy metal community.

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