In the world of heavy metal, where bands evolve and adapt, Lamb of God's guitarist Mark Morton offers a fascinating insight into the creative process and the band's journey. Let's dive into this intriguing conversation and explore the depths of their musical evolution.
The Evolution of Lamb of God
When asked about the band's latest album, "Into Oblivion," Morton reveals a deliberate and intentional approach to their musical evolution. It's a process that involves stepping out of comfort zones and revisiting their roots. Personally, I find this notion of intentionality intriguing; it's a reminder that even in the most spontaneous art forms, there's a method to the madness.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the band's willingness to explore and experiment. Morton mentions going back to the early 2000s metal scene, revisiting the sounds that inspired them. This retrospective approach is a unique way to stay fresh and relevant, and it's a strategy that seems to have paid off for Lamb of God.
The Compositional Process
The heart of any band's sound lies in its compositional process, and Lamb of God's is no exception. Morton reveals that it all starts with the riff, a fundamental building block of heavy metal. The guitarists, Willie Adler and Mark Morton, constantly collect and compare riffs, building songs from these foundational elements. It's a simple yet effective approach that has served them well over the years.
Favorite Album: "As The Palaces Burn"
When pushed to name a favorite album, Morton chooses "As The Palaces Burn." This album, he explains, captures a unique moment in the band's evolution. It's a raw, energetic record that showcases the band finding its footing as songwriters. The sound is described as "naive and abstract" yet "on fire," a perfect blend of passion and experimentation.
What many people don't realize is that this album's simplicity is its strength. The instrumentation and production may be straightforward, but it allows each song to shine with its own character. It's a testament to the band's ability to create an album that is both cohesive and diverse.
Bringing Back the Early Sound
The question arises: Was it a conscious decision to bring back some of the early sound on "Into Oblivion"? Morton's answer reveals the collaborative nature of the band. While there's no formal meeting to discuss the album's direction, the band members have conversations about their musical roots and what made Lamb of God unique.
For Morton, it was about revisiting the music that inspired him when writing those early albums. He delves into the works of Swedish extreme metallers like Meshuggah, The Haunted, and At the Gates. This influence is evident in the album's unique grooves and angles, a nod to the band's early days.
The Impact of Art Cruz
The addition of drummer Art Cruz has had a significant impact on Lamb of God's sound. As a big fan of the band's body of work, Cruz brings a unique perspective to the songwriting process. He can offer insights into what Lamb of God might have done in the past, providing a fresh take on their established sound.
Morton notes that on the self-titled album, the drums were treated more conservatively, respecting the legacy of Chris Adler. However, as Cruz settled into the band, his contributions evolved, adding a new dimension to their sound.
Critical Acclaim for "Into Oblivion"
"Into Oblivion" received widespread acclaim, with critics praising its intensity and relevance. The album was featured in various publications, highlighting its ferocity and the band's enduring reign as New Wave of American Heavy Metal giants. It's a testament to Lamb of God's ability to stay relevant and adapt their sound while staying true to their roots.
A Thoughtful Conclusion
Lamb of God's journey, as told through Mark Morton's eyes, is a story of intentional evolution and a deep respect for their musical heritage. The band's willingness to experiment and revisit their roots while staying true to their sound is a testament to their longevity and success. It's a reminder that in the world of heavy metal, sometimes the best way forward is to look back.
