Good news for Rage Against The Machine fans: No, your beloved band isn’t getting back together, but their heir apparent has been found, and it’s Stray From The Path (SFTP). The group will be performing at the Blue Moose Tap House this Friday at 5:30 p.m.
The Long Island-based quartet began in 2001 as a DIY-esque hardcore punk band, independently releasing three albums, making their own merchandise and taking part in extensive tours. After gaining an underground following in New York City, they were discovered by Terrance Hobbs, the lead guitarist from the legendary Long Island death metal band Suffocation. He helped the band with production work, giving them more exposure to a wider audience, and ultimately helped them sign a deal with Sumerian Records, a prominent label for up-and-coming metal bands.
Their major-label debut, 2008’s Villains, showcased the band’s strong Rage Against the Machine influence. Vocalist Drew York seems to be just as pissed off as Zack de la Rocha. His semi-rapped vocals, often littered with vulgarity, are filled with such disgust and passion that they encourage audiences to share his aggression. Guitarist Tom Williams, meanwhile, emulates Tom Morello’s unconventional style to a tee. The group’s extensive use of feedback and pedal techniques is rock solid, adding variety to the genre that isn’t necessarily known for great guitarwork.
SFTP has released three albums on Sumerian since their 2008 debut, with last year’s Anonymous peaking at 40 on Billboard’s Top 200. The group has drifted slightly from its DIY hardcore roots, moving toward a more rap-influenced NรผMetal style that hearkens back to the late ’90s. Just listen to their latest single below, “Badge & a Bullet,” and you’ll immediately notice the similarities to Rage Against the Machine.
Friday’s show has five openers, including Counterparts, who are quickly becoming one of Canada’s more promising young metalcore bands. The show begins at 5:30 p.m., and costs $15.
