A curious band, Amebix were well-known as punk/hardcore mainstays,
but their work had an undeniable metallic element, as well as proving
influential on future metal bands
(Sepultura
and
Neurosis
have proudly listed them as influences, and in the latter case,
the influence is clear, at least when listening to very early Neurosis
work).
Of the two albums recorded, the earlier Arise album is clearly
the
punkier, while Monolith expands on their bleak style with more
metallic influences.
Their style is slightly difficult to pinpoint, but it combines elements
of straight punk and
Motorhead,
mixed with vocals that were accurately described elsewhere as
a cross between Cronos and Lemmy.
Essentially homeless, jobless, and destitute for their entire career,
they nonetheless managed to hold it together for a number of years,
recording the odd single, EP, and two full-length albums before their
breakup in 1987.
In 2008 the core of brothers Baron and Stig put together a new
version of the group, with veteran metal drummer Roy Mayorga completing
the trio.
The new lineup released the well-received Sonic Mass album in 2011,
but as of late 2012 the band has been laid to rest again.
