GULF OF MEXICO -- If you're kicking yourself for missing the first 70,000 Tons of Metal cruise -- and we know you're out there -- or succumbed to the "I don't know about being trapped on a boat for four days with a bunch of metalheads" stigma, well, you missed a helluva ride.
One of the bands you missed was Death Angel. But San Antonio fans get a reprieve of sorts because the West Coast thrash veterans come to town Feb. 15.
Although a cave in Afghanistan might be the only place more opposite of Royal Caribbean's Majesty of the Seas than the confined sweat box of the White Rabbit when it comes to concert settings, Death Angel's dates in Texas will be more special than any others on their Relentless Retribution tour.
But first, there was history to be made.
The San Francisco Bay Area group was one of 42 bands playing the cruise last week and tore it up during two shows. Though it was impossible to see every song from every band over four days, Death Angel was the best, and most intense, live act witnessed by the SAMME.
I had the pleasure of interviewing singer Mark Osegueda and guitarist Rob Cavestany (see video, left) on board. We spoke about what will make the Feb. 14 show at Emo's in Austin and the next night at the White Rabbit unique, and much more.
The cruise offered moments no one will see or hear on this tour. One occurred when a fan yelled out a request for "Voracious Souls." Death Angel viciously delivered that song from 1987 debut The Ultra-Violence with Osegueda stating, "We are NOT doing this song on our upcoming tour." Another such moment can be seen in the video of "Bored" filmed by fan "freddypipes," which can be viewed by clicking on the interview icon. Both videos will pop up.
Stay tuned for more artist-specific reviews, interviews and slideshows from 70,000 Tons of Metal.
- WHO: D.R.I., Death Angel, Lazarus A.D., Early Man, Bonded by Blood, Hexen
- WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 15 (Doors 6:30 p.m.)
- WHERE: The White Rabbit (2410 N. St. Mary's)
- TICKETS: $15 at Detourtickets.com. For more info, call 210-737-2221
- OF NOTE: Bonded by Blood was reportedly involved in a van accident last weekend. Although no injuries were reported, the band's equipment trailer was totaled, and the group will "miss some gigs." No word yet whether that includes the San Antonio show.
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Comments
Wow, wish I could have been there man. Death Angel is definitely one of the best thrash bands to come from the bay area. I remember seeing Lazaurs A.D. open up for D.R.I. last february and I can honestly say it would be a treat to see them again in concert. Keep it up man.
-Acid, the Minneapolis Metal Music Examiner
Thanks for reading and commenting, Nathan. Always great to hear from other metal Examiners, especially from other states. I'll be reviewing Death Angel/Lazarus A.D./D.R.I. this Tuesday as well. Maybe we'll see you on the next cruise?
We'll see man. I hope I can make it. I'm hoping to get to the Finnish Metal Tour 2011 and get an interview in with Finntroll and Ensiferum if I can next friday. Keep kicking ass, and I'll stay in touch.
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