In the world of heavy metal, where evolution and experimentation are key, Lamb of God's guitarist Mark Morton has some intriguing insights to offer. In a recent interview, Morton delved into the band's creative process, shedding light on their latest album, 'Into Oblivion', and the factors that influenced its unique sound.
The Evolution of Lamb of God's Sound
When asked about the band's musical evolution on 'Into Oblivion', Morton emphasized the intentionality behind their creative choices. 'Everything we do is very intentional,' he said. This deliberate approach is evident in their songwriting process, which starts with guitar riffs crafted by Morton and fellow guitarist Willie Adler.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the band's willingness to step out of their comfort zones. Morton explained, 'We really rallied around the idea of embracing discomfort and pushing the boundaries of our creativity.' This mindset led them to revisit their early influences, drawing inspiration from the metal scene of the early 2000s.
The Influence of 'As The Palaces Burn'
Mark Morton's favorite Lamb of God album, 'As The Palaces Burn', holds a special place in his heart and in the band's history. Released in 2003, this album represents a pivotal moment for the band, capturing their raw energy and unique sound. Morton describes it as 'naive and abstract,' yet it 'sounds on fire.'
One of the album's strengths, according to Morton, is its ability to showcase the band's songwriting prowess. 'Every song has its own character,' he said. 'It's an interesting, simple, yet cool representation of what Lamb of God would become.'
Revitalizing the Early Sound
The decision to bring back elements of their earlier sound on 'Into Oblivion' was a conscious one. Morton explained that the band wanted to reconnect with the cornerstones of their musical identity. 'We asked ourselves, what have we gotten away from? What made us who we are?' he said.
This introspection led Morton to revisit the music he was listening to when writing those early albums. He immersed himself in the works of Swedish metal bands like The Haunted, At the Gates, and Meshuggah, drawing inspiration from their unique grooves and experimental nature.
The Impact of Art Cruz
The addition of drummer Art Cruz to the band has been a significant development. Cruz, who replaced Chris Adler, has brought a fresh perspective and a deep appreciation for Lamb of God's body of work. Morton noted, 'The beauty of Art being our drummer is his immense respect for our past work.'
Cruz's contributions have evolved over time. On the self-titled album, his drumming was more conservative, paying homage to the band's established sound. However, on 'Omens' and 'Into Oblivion', his style has developed, adding a new dimension to the band's music.
Critical Acclaim for 'Into Oblivion'
'Into Oblivion' has received widespread acclaim, with critics praising its intensity and relevance. The album's release was accompanied by coverage in Metal Hammer and Kerrang!, solidifying Lamb of God's status as giants of the New Wave of American Heavy Metal.
A Thoughtful Conclusion
In my opinion, Lamb of God's journey, as narrated by Mark Morton, is a testament to the power of intentional creativity and the importance of staying true to one's roots. By embracing their early influences and pushing the boundaries of their sound, they've created a unique and powerful musical identity. 'Into Oblivion' is a brilliant example of this evolution, and I can't wait to see what the band comes up with next.
