Jeremy Spencer: A New Chapter in Metal with Semi-Rotted
If you think you know Jeremy Spencer, think again. The former longtime drummer of Five Finger Death Punch has embarked on an exciting new journey with his latest project, Semi-Rotted. This endeavor pays homage to the death metal legends such as Obituary, Death, and Morbid Angel, infusing a hard groove with a horror-inspired edge that is bound to turn heads.
The Formation of Semi-Rotted
Teaming up with guitarist Shawn McGhee, bassist Alessandro Paveri (from Gemini Syndrome), and newly recruited drummer Tim Yeung (ex-Divine Heresy, Hate Eternal, Morbid Angel), this dynamic quartet is ready to unleash their full-length debut album, Barrage of Brutality.
A Renewed Excitement
In a recent conversation with Metal Injection, Spencer expressed his enthusiasm for this new venture. “I have that excited feeling again that I’d kind of lost maybe over the years just from doing the same routine all the time,” he shared. He continued, “There’s something refreshing about this energy that I’m experiencing again, and I’m really having fun doing it.” This fresh energy is echoed in the camaraderie among band members, with Spencer emphasizing the importance of a positive vibe and mutual respect.
A Long-Standing Friendship
Tim Yeung reminisced about their longstanding friendship, dating back nearly 20 years. “Jeremy and I have known each other since, I don’t know, like ’06-07? Yeah, a long, long time,” Yeung recalled, highlighting the history they share. The two have played together in various capacities before, and when Spencer reached out to Yeung about forming a new band, the decision came easily.
Musical Direction and Vision
Yeung, a seasoned death metal drummer, perfectly aligns with Spencer’s vision for Semi-Rotted. “It reminds me of the stuff that we grew up listening to,” Yeung explained. He pointed out that the band’s sound is heavily influenced by early ’90s arrangements, contrasting it with the often overly complicated structures in modern extreme metal.
Songwriting Philosophy
For both Spencer and Yeung, the essence of music lies in the song itself. “It’s always about the song first and foremost for me,” Spencer stated. He emphasized the importance of hooks and memorable elements that resonate with listeners. Transitioning from drums to vocals, Spencer noted the physical necessity of the change but also the thrill of having a microphone in hand, allowing him to engage with audiences in a new way.
Upcoming Performances and Releases
Semi-Rotted is gearing up for their debut showcase in September. With plans for a potential full tour, the band is eager to share their music with fans. They are already generating buzz with their single “Bloodbath,” featuring legendary vocalist Corpsegrinder.
Collaboration with Corpsegrinder
Spencer shared the story behind the collaboration, revealing that he thought it would be amazing to have Corpsegrinder contribute to the track. After discussions with their shared management, the collaboration came to fruition quickly, leaving Spencer in awe of the final product.
What to Expect from Barrage of Brutality
As Semi-Rotted prepares for the release of their debut album, Spencer teases a collection that promises intensity and brevity. “It’s punishing. The longest song is maybe 2 minutes and 40 seconds. It’s really short, sweet, and focused,” he explained. The album will deliver about 29 minutes of relentless brutality, designed to be an exhilarating listen from start to finish.
Conclusion
Jeremy Spencer’s transition from drummer to frontman in Semi-Rotted marks an exciting new era in his musical journey. With a powerful lineup and a commitment to creating music that resonates with fans, Semi-Rotted is poised to make a significant impact in the death metal scene. As they prepare to unleash Barrage of Brutality, it’s clear that Spencer has rediscovered his passion for music, ready to deliver a fresh and ferocious sound to the world.
FAQs
What is the musical style of Semi-Rotted?
Semi-Rotted combines elements of death metal with influences from genre greats like Obituary, Death, and Morbid Angel, featuring a hard groove and horror-inspired themes.
Who are the members of Semi-Rotted?
The band consists of Jeremy Spencer (vocals), Shawn McGhee (guitar), Alessandro Paveri (bass), and Tim Yeung (drums).
What is the release date for Barrage of Brutality?
The exact release date for the album has not been announced, but it is highly anticipated following the release of the single “Bloodbath.”
Will Semi-Rotted be touring after their album release?
Yes, the band is eager to tour and is currently planning a showcase and potential full tour, depending on demand.
What can fans expect from the debut album?
Fans can expect a lean, fierce collection of tracks that are short, focused, and packed with brutality, totaling around 29 minutes of music.