SUN DONT SHINE: A New Chapter in Heavy Music
Formation and Background
SUN DONT SHINE, a band that emerged from the ashes of EYE AM, features an impressive lineup including Kirk Windstein (guitar, vocals; known for CROWBAR, DOWN, KINGDOM OF SORROW), former TYPE O NEGATIVE members Kenny Hickey (guitar/vocals) and Johnny Kelly (drums), alongside Todd Strange (CROWBAR, DOWN). Together, they have released the official music video for their new single, “The Promise Song,” marking a significant milestone in their musical journey.
Upcoming Tour Plans
In a recent interview with cult San Antonio video show Robbs MetalWorks, Windstein revealed exciting news about the band’s future. “We’re actually gonna go to Europe for about a ten-day, two-week little tour, play a few festivals. And it’ll be our first time playing live,” he stated. This tour comes as the band prepares to release a seven-song EP, a project that has been in the works since they began writing together.
Musical Direction and Identity
Windstein emphasizes that SUN DONT SHINE should not be pigeonholed as merely a combination of its members’ previous bands. “We like to think, us four guys, that it’s not what people think when you’ve got half of the original CROWBAR and half of TYPE O NEGATIVE. It doesn’t sound like either band, so it’s its own thing, which I’m very proud of,” he explained.
Vocal Dynamics
Hickey takes the lead on most vocals, allowing for a unique blend of styles. Windstein noted, “When I heard his voice, I’m, like, ‘Dude, you’re the singer.’ We do some call-and-answer, and we do a lot of vocal harmonies.” The collaboration between Hickey’s clean, powerful voice and Windstein’s gravelly tones creates a captivating dynamic that enhances their sound.
Previous Releases and Musical Style
Under the name EYE AM, the band released two singles: “Dreams Always Die With The Sun” in June 2023 and “Cryptomnesia” in November 2023, both via Corpse Paint Records. The songs, alongside their music videos directed by Mike Holderbeast, showcase the band’s ability to blend heavy riffs with atmospheric melodies.
Instrumentation and Chemistry
The rhythm section, consisting of Kelly’s tight drumming and Strange’s fierce bass lines, creates a strong foundation for the band’s sound. This chemistry is palpable; every note resonates with a raw energy that reflects the band’s collective experiences. Their music embraces imperfections, channeling them into something transcendent and real.
Influences and Themes
SUN DONT SHINE’s influences range from BLACK SABBATH to THE BEATLES, resulting in a rich tapestry of sound that explores themes of resilience, reflection, and catharsis. Hickey expressed the desire for their music to be multidimensional, saying, “I want it to be both light and dark, dynamic and unpredictable.” This approach allows each song to take on a life of its own, revealing contrasting moods with each listen.
Formation Story
Kelly shared insights into how SUN DONT SHINE came to be, crediting Andrew Spaulding for bringing the members together. Their initial meeting led to immediate songwriting and recording sessions, showcasing the chemistry that had been simmering for years among the musicians.
Rapid Creation Process
Kelly described the swift process of creating “Dreams Always Die With The Sun,” stating, “Drew literally picked me up from the airport and drove me to rehearsal… we started working on the song.” The track was recorded within a day, capturing the spontaneity of their collaboration.
Conclusion
SUN DONT SHINE embodies a fresh and dynamic force in the heavy music scene. With their unique blend of influences, emotional depth, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity, the band is set to carve out its own identity. As they prepare for their upcoming tour and the release of their EP, fans can anticipate a musical experience that transcends traditional boundaries.
FAQs
What is SUN DONT SHINE’s musical style?
SUN DONT SHINE combines heavy riffs with atmospheric melodies, creating a sound that is both dynamic and unpredictable, distinguishing themselves from their members’ previous bands.
When is SUN DONT SHINE’s first live performance?
The band is scheduled to embark on their first live tour in Europe, lasting about ten days to two weeks, playing several festivals.
What releases has SUN DONT SHINE put out so far?
Under their original name EYE AM, the band released two singles, “Dreams Always Die With The Sun” and “Cryptomnesia,” with accompanying music videos.
Who are the members of SUN DONT SHINE?
The band comprises Kirk Windstein, Kenny Hickey, Johnny Kelly, and Todd Strange, all of whom have notable backgrounds in various rock and metal bands.
What themes does their music explore?
Their music delves into themes of resilience, reflection, and catharsis, often reflecting the band’s collective experiences and emotional journeys.
