SPINESHANK Rises from the Ashes: New Music on the Horizon
In a thunderous announcement echoing from the Download festival in the UK, SPINESHANK's frontman Jonny Santos, drummer Tommy Decker, and guitarist Tommy Decker Jr. have confirmed that the band is gearing up to unleash new music. Originally, the plan was simply to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their groundbreaking 2000 album 'The Height Of Callousness.' But as Santos noted, a new wave of fans—many of whom are the children of longtime followers—have been clamoring for something fresh. 'We've got some songs in the oven right now,' Santos revealed, promising fans that the band would dive into the studio post-European tour.
The new musical direction is set to be a thrilling evolution. Decker acknowledged the impact of their new guitarist, Tommy Decker Jr., stating that he believes the new member has 'cracked the code' for pushing SPINESHANK's sound into the future while paying homage to their roots. 'Of course, we wanna push things forward,' Decker stated, striking a balance between nostalgia and innovation that fans will surely appreciate.
Adding his own insights, Decker Jr. expressed his commitment to preserving the essence of the band's classic sound while integrating his personal influences. 'I feel like I've got that sound down from the 'Height Of Callousness' era, but then I'm also adding in things I'm into as well,' he explained. This melding of styles indicates an exciting new chapter for SPINESHANK, one that could potentially resonate with both old-school fans and newcomers alike.
The band's journey hasn't been without its challenges. Earlier this year, guitarist Jason Hager announced his departure from the tour due to ongoing mental and physical health struggles, emphasizing the importance of being at his best for both the band and their fans. Hager's absence was felt deeply, but Decker Jr. stepped up, proving his mettle and ensuring that the shows remained electrifying.
SPINESHANK has a storied past, with a legacy built on three influential albums, world tours—including iconic performances at Ozzfest and Download—and a Grammy nomination back in 2004. After a lengthy hiatus, they returned with their fourth album, 'Anger Denial Acceptance,' in 2012, but the fire sparked by 'The Height Of Callousness' remains the centerpiece of their identity. As they prepare to re-enter the studio, the metal world watches in anticipation, eager to see what this formidable band will deliver next.