Female Fronted
Melodic Hardcore from NJ performing @ the famed
CBGB's in
New York City circa 2004.
Members:
Vanessa Diaz: Vocals
Elo
Hernandez:
Bass/backing vocals
Elias Arroyo:
Guitars
Ed Die: Guitars
Alfred Soler: Drums
check out www.myspace.com/butnotforgotten
Review:
In a music industry dominated by testosterone laden rock bands, one simply needs to turn on the radio or see a music video to realize the lack of female representation, and the epidemic at hand. Though
New Jersey does have some females in the scene, the sight of a woman playing in a heavy rock band is virtually non-existent.
Vanessa (the lead singer of the band) and
But Not Forgotten are starting to change this trend as they emerge and pave the way for more females in hard rock.
Straying from the typical commercial sound that is often heard these days, the band manages to combine a diverse style that blends classic metal, punk, hardcore, and screamo. All while maintaining melodies, and having a singer that not only screams and sings, but who also gives off a rap feel as well. This, mixed in with bassist Elo's background vocals,
Eddie and Elias' guitar, and Al's drummer bring But Not Forgotten to a different level
.. Despite this seemingly odd mix, many are slowly starting to catch on.
Although, But Not Forgotten is a relatively new band, having been together only since
February 2004 they have already demonstrated the
DIY work ethic that so typifies New Jersey bands. In a year, they have been able to record a full-length
album and have played shows with such notable bands as
Kittie, Cortez, and
One True Thing. Furthermore, they have had their music played on 89.
5FM WSOU and have been featured on a
New Jersey hardcore and a female fronted bands compilation, all without a label or artist management.
Through Elo’s persistence and determination to push the band further by taking control of the band business, the 5-piece have done pretty well so far. Elo books and promotes the bands shows, as well as attempts to get features online or in newspapers. Although, But Not Forgotten has created a buzz for themselves at
Connections in
Clifton, NJ and regulary play at smaller clubs and halls they have had some success with bigger gigs such as the
Starland Ballroom in
Sayreville, NJ where they first played for “The
Metal Movement” show there in
October 2004.
The band opened for female fronted acts Kittie,
OTEP, and
Crisis. Through the serendipity of inquiry, strong crowd response, and coincidence
But Not
Forgotten have been able to open for OTEP three times.
Although performing in a music industry that thrives and tends to focus on monotonous commercial music and sex appeal, But Not Forgotten have adamantly refused to follow this degrading trend and instead have decided to pursue their own agenda. They strive for originality and are determined and dedicated to achieve a commendable level of recognition. Accordingly, they remain true to their own musical flavor, selling it simply with their conviction and spreading it with their hard work and fervor.
Having just released their self-titled debut album in March the band has been playing several shows and have also been marketing their CD to labels, radio stations, and record stores. The band has managed to pull this off all while being employed by day and practicing by night. Youngest member Elias (rhythm guitarist) even juggles the rigors of college.
In all But Not Forgotten demonstrates that the “DIY” work ethic is essential to build a progressive, respectable band who value and love the music that they play. This has been reflected by the dedication, hard work, and team effort that seep out of their rhythm and musical symmetry.
https://sites.google.com/site/margaritaamorales/music-writing/band-features
- published: 05 May 2016
- views: 6