The Rise of Cold Slither: From G.I. Joe to the Stage

A Nostalgic Journey Through Animation and Music

In the mid-1980s, a Saturday morning cartoon was making waves not just for its action-packed storylines but for its commentary on the music industry. G.I. Joe, A Real American Hero, introduced viewers to a fictional rock band named Cold Slither, created by the infamous terrorist organization Cobra. The episode aired on December 2, 1985, and delved into themes of censorship and the influence of music on youth, cleverly wrapped in the guise of entertainment.

The Concept Behind Cold Slither

In the episode titled “Cold Slither,” Cobra Commander finds himself in a bind after the G.I. Joe team raids a vault, depleting Cobra’s resources. To regain control, he enlists the help of the Dreadnoks, a gang of mercenaries led by Zartan, to form Cold Slither. Their mission? To create rock music infused with subliminal messages intended to bend the will of the masses to Cobra’s agenda.

Inspiration from the Music Scene

While the episode’s narrative was influenced by real-world organizations like the PMRC (Parents Music Resource Center), it also drew heavily from motorcycle culture and the heavy metal scene of the era. Michael Charles Hill, the episode’s writer, cites Deep Purple and T. Rex as inspirations, aiming to craft a Cobra anthem that resonated with the rebellious spirit of the time. The Dreadnoks, with their leather vests and long hair, were unmistakably modeled after the biker gangs and hard rock musicians of the period.

The Creation of the Cold Slither Band

Fast forward to the present, and the dream of bringing Cold Slither to life has become a reality. Gerardo Martinez and Gus Rios, passionate fans of the G.I. Joe series, have played pivotal roles in this revival. Their journey began nearly a decade ago during a chance meeting at San Diego Comic Con, where they discussed the potential of creating a real-life version of the fictional band.

Bringing the Concept to Life

After years of discussions and planning, the momentum picked up around 2015, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the Cold Slither episode. With the support of former Hasbro executive Jerry Jivoin and other key figures, Martinez and Rios began to assemble the necessary resources and talent to make Cold Slither a tangible band.

Crafting the Sound

Rios, who has drummed for bands like Malevolent Creation and Gruesome, took charge of the musical direction. He aimed to capture the essence of 1980s heavy metal while incorporating elements of glam rock and speed metal. “It’s a heavy metal record,” Rios explains. “I wanted to stay true to the sound of the era, while ensuring it felt authentic to the Dreadnoks’ style.” Collaborators like Matt Harvey and Ross Sewage joined him, each bringing their unique expertise and love for G.I. Joe into the mix.

The Upcoming Debut at San Diego Comic Con

Cold Slither is set to make its official debut at San Diego Comic Con 2025, coinciding with the release of a limited action figure set based on the band. This unique marketing strategy not only appeals to collectors but also solidifies Cold Slither’s place in the G.I. Joe legacy.

Authenticity and Character

The attention to detail extends beyond the music. Rios plans to embody Zartan’s character during performances, complete with a red wig and costume. “Everyone is all in on the outfits,” he laughs, highlighting the commitment to authenticity that fans will appreciate.

Conclusion

The journey of Cold Slither from a fictional band in a beloved cartoon to a real-life musical act demonstrates the lasting impact of G.I. Joe on popular culture. With their debut on the horizon, fans are eager to see how this homage to the past will resonate in the present. As Rios humorously notes, “You’ll know for sure if we start touring with Metallica.”

FAQs

What is Cold Slither?

Cold Slither is a fictional rock band created by the terrorist organization Cobra in the animated series G.I. Joe, A Real American Hero. The band is known for its use of subliminal messaging in music.

Who are the members of the real Cold Slither band?

The real Cold Slither band consists of Gerardo Martinez and Gus Rios, along with various collaborators who share a passion for G.I. Joe and heavy metal music.

When will Cold Slither make their debut?

Cold Slither is set to debut at San Diego Comic Con 2025, where they will also release a limited action figure set.

What genre of music does Cold Slither play?

Cold Slither’s music is primarily heavy metal, with influences from glam rock and speed metal, reflecting the musical trends of the 1980s.

Will there be any subliminal messages in their music?

While Rios jokingly claims not to possess the technology for subliminal messaging, the band’s commitment to authenticity in sound and character is evident throughout their work.