Scorpion Child: A Journey Through Darkness and Resilience

Photo credit: H. Love

A Day in Austin

On a dreary winter Friday in Austin, Texas—coinciding with Super Bowl weekend and an uncharacteristic 70 degrees—trucks surround the Crow’s Nest, reminiscent of a scene from a Stephen King film. At around 10 a.m., frontman Aryn Jonathan Black arrives, embodying a whirlwind of hair, tattoos, and the palpable exhaustion of a bar owner. He is there to discuss I Saw the End as it Passed Right Through Me (available for pre-order), the band’s third full-length album, set to breathe life into the winter.

The Band’s Evolution

Marking their debut with Noize in the Attic Records, this album follows two previous releases on Nuclear Blast: their self-titled debut in 2013 and the follow-up Acid Roulette released three years later. I Saw the End as it Passed Right Through Me emerges nine years after Acid Roulette, signifying a poignant return. As Black reflects on the narrative arc of music, he likens it to the dual experiences of love and heartbreak, a theme that resonates deeply within the new album.

Personal Struggles and Artistic Resilience

Leading up to this release, Black faced immense personal challenges, losing his fiancé, his birth mother, and the original Crow’s Nest venue to arson. These events have shaped the album into a testament of redemptive resilience amidst life’s trials, showcasing a profound emotional depth.

Musical Composition

The opening track, “Be the Snake,” delivers a high-octane experience with its Sidewinder riff and a predatory tempo, culminating in a blistering guitar solo. “Actress” offers a twist, fusing a Tears for Fears essence with a metallic, fast-paced energy reminiscent of the ’80s. “Outliers” channels urban themes akin to Queensrÿche’s style, blending balladry with an explosive big-city vibe.

Exploring New Sounds

Black describes the exultant track “The Starker” as a sonic journey that traverses influences from Cinderella to Mastodon, and Deftones to At the Drive-In. He remarks on the emotional weight of the lyrics, declaring, “This record is painful – lyrically. Musically, it’s the darkest for sure.”

Creative Inspirations

Black continues to explore varied musical landscapes, mentioning his solo work in industrial noise and a project in Norway with members of Gorgoroth called The Ritual, which leans into heavier territory. He cites inspirations such as Fields of the Nephilim, The Sound, and The Chameleons, noting a shift from their previous psychedelic influences to a darker, more esoteric sound.

Fan Reactions

As the band evolves, they have received mixed reactions from fans. Some appreciate the experimental direction, while others question the blend of styles. Black embraces the feedback, stating, “That’s actually pretty good! Dark, esoteric rock.”

Conclusion

Scorpion Child’s latest offering promises to be a captivating exploration of sound and emotion, merging personal stories with broader musical influences. As they prepare for the album’s release, the anticipation grows for what lies ahead in their artistic journey.

FAQs

What is the theme of Scorpion Child’s new album?

The theme revolves around resilience and personal struggle, reflecting on loss and redemption through music.

When will I Saw the End as it Passed Right Through Me be available?

The album is currently available for pre-order and is set to release soon.

What influences Scorpion Child’s music style?

Their music blends elements of post-punk, darkwave, and industrial rock, drawing inspiration from various genres and bands.

Who are some of the band’s musical influences?

Some notable influences include Fields of the Nephilim, The Sound, The Chameleons, and elements from bands like Mastodon and Deftones.