You might be surprised by the quality of certain unknown and obscure groups. Let's dig in!
By Ricardo Batalha (*)
Even with the recent groundbreaking releases from veteran mainstream bands like Iron Maiden , Slayer , or Motörhead , leveling the playing field in terms of preference and comments among most fans on social media, the act of digging for new material is always interesting.
Research, whether done as in the romantic years of exchanging cassette tapes or now, searching for music through streaming, downloads, or YouTube, thankfully still attracts a good portion of those who enjoy heavy music. That's why I'd like to introduce a Hard Rock band called Outlaw Blood, known only to the most dedicated music lovers. And they enjoy it!
Cinema often delights rock fans with fictional bands. Everyone remembers Spinal Tap or Steel Dragon, the band from the movie "Rockstar," which featured guitarist Zakk Wylde, bassist Jeff Pilson, vocalists Miljenko Matijevic (Steelheart) and Jeff Scott Soto, and drummer Jason Bonham. However, a lesser-known figure who played with Jason Bonham is Marti Frederiksen. Together, they formed a group called Motherland. So far, nothing unusual. But what few people know is that it was Frederiksen who recorded the vocals for the band Stillwater, the fictional band from "Almost Famous.".
Released fifteen years ago, the film directed by Cameron Crowe won an Oscar for "Best Original Screenplay." But Frederiksen truly established himself as a successful producer and composer. His list of credits includes Aerosmith, Def Leppard, Ozzy, Mötley Crüe, Mick Jagger, Sheryl Crow, Brother Cane, Pink, and many others.
You can search and you'll enjoy tracks like Tower Of Love , Sink My Teeth , Soul Revival , I'm In Shock and Red Hot 'N' Blue .
Outlaw Blood was formed in the early 1990s when Marti Frederiksen joined forces with vocalist Marc McCoy, guitarist Rick Harchol, bassist Nick “The Hammer” Parise, and drummer Larry Aberman. On paper, they may seem like complete unknowns, but the late McCoy (who passed away in 2000), in addition to singing, played bass and guitar and was part of Fantasy 7, which featured former Sex Pistols member Steve Jones. Drummer Aberman, in turn, was a member of Dirty Looks and recorded “Your Filthy Little Mouth” (1994) alongside David Lee Roth.
The American group released their only album, self-titled, on the ATCO label in 1991. It had enormous potential, but didn't have time to reach greater heights. Produced by Jeff Paris, this obscure and only work has everything to please fans of Bang Tango, Shark Island, Billy Idol, Def Leppard, and The Cult. You can search for it and you'll enjoy tracks like " Tower Of Love ," " Sink My Teeth ," "Soul Revival ," " I'm In Shock, and "Red Hot 'N' Blue ."
So, my friend, when you see a related post , a recommendation from Spotify, from other sources the internet offers, or a simple tip from a friend, press play. You might be surprised by the quality of certain unknown and obscure groups. Let's explore!
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(*) Ricardo Batalha is the editor-in-chief of Roadie Crew and director of ASE Assessoria e Consultoria..