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Artist History
After creating a healthy buzz in the underground as a founding member of Classic Metal torch-bearers OCTOBER 31, guitarist Brian "Hellstorm" Williams decided to add yet another dimension to his long list of musical accomplishments by forming his own side band. A prolific writer, Brian amassed a large back log of material that would not fit in with OCTOBER 31's already solidified musical style. As a result he, like most true artists; felt the need to pursue the necessary means with which to get his music out to the world.
In early 1999, he enlisted the help of local guitarist Jason Tedder. Already a drummer in a working regional act, Jason joined Brian as the second guitarist and proved himself to be a solid musical partner and tight rhythm player. Beginning with Brian's catalog of riffs and adding a bit of Jason's more recent material, they worked out the final arrangements to eight songs and set out to fill the rest of the band's roster.
Tom Berry was Brian's first choice to fill the drummer's position. Having already worked with Tom in regional metal touring machine OBEY BIZAR, Brian knew Tom could do nothing but add to and enhance the sound he was after with his quick feet and pounding rhythmic style. Tom came in and from the first rehearsal, it was a total match. Tom brought to the band years of recording and touring experience with OBEY BIZAR and a well-seasoned, powerful approach to his instrument that unquestionably helps to set the band apart from the rest.
While Brian, Jason and Tom were laying the foundation for and preparing to record these eight songs, Brian decided to begin looking for a vocalist to fulfill the vision he had for the band. While trying out a bass player (who ultimately did not work out), Brian heard a CD of the guy's band called TRAMPLED UNDERFOOT. While listening to the songs, Brian heard what he knew could be the only voice for this project. In late 1999, Brian contacted vocalist Shawn Pelata and asked if he would be interested in lending his voice to the impending CD. After talking a few times and hearing some of the material (over the phone, no less), Shawn agreed to be a part of the band. Shawn' s impressive vocal dexterity and lyrical input proved to be another defining element to the band's ever-growing sound.
In April of 2000, without a permanent bass player, the band went to Oblivion Studios in Maryland to record what would eventually become their debut album. With Mike Bossier behind the board and Brian's OCTOBER 31 band mate Jim Hunter filling in on bass, the band pounded out all 8 songs in record time. The combination of Brian's frenzied lead playing, Jason's strong rhythms and acoustic overlays, Tom's energetic drumming, and Shawn's lyrical and vocal work proved to be a powerful thing over the 3 days spent in the studio. Jim, who learned and recorded all of his bass parts in a stunning 3 hours, also proved to be a vital part of this project. The band, newly dubbed K-OCTAVE, left the studio with a finished product that had everyone excited at the thought of future possibilities.
After the sessions were complete, the band went through a lull of progress. Shawn pulled back to tend to personal business and Brian had a busy schedule with OCTOBER 31. In the downtime, Brian, Jason and Tom tried out prospective bass players. None of them quite fit the bill and the once exciting future of the band now seemed uncertain. Ironically, Cliff Paul was the first name on Brian's list of possible bass players way back in early 1999 when he and Jason began. Brian had seen Cliff play in his former band DEVIANT and was impressed with his melodic, almost progressive approach to bass, but he had no idea how to get in contact with him. Then in early 2001, through a strange series of events, Brian got Cliff's number. He came in, learned the songs and in no time was a permanent fixture in the band. Cliff is not only helping shape and broaden the band's current writings, he has also expanded on Jim's already solid bass parts helping to color the sound even more with his adventurous, fluid style.
In 2001, the band secured a deal with German metal label HELLION RECORDS for the newly christened "Outer Limits" record. Now with label backing, the band is eager to write the next chapter in the continuing saga of K-OCTAVE. |
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Group Members
Shawn Pelata : Vocals *** Brian "Hellstorm" Williams : Guitars *** Jason Tedder : Guitars *** Cliff Paul : Bass Guitars *** Tom Berry : Drums & Percussion |
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Press Reviews
' It's obvious that this now-signed band will be doing well in the Power-Metal field. This is seasoned very well and, hell it's simply enjoyable. The guitar-playing is lively and the vocals are hella good ... this is quality Metal. '
~ Wes Jacques / The Metal Observer |
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Location
Charlotte, NC - USA |
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