Shotguns and hunting. Drinking. Massive power chords, a thundering rhythm section, and intense vocals. Every good band knows what it stands for, and local act American Centaur has chosen the latter as its gospel. Hailing from nearby Carroll Country, the group is currently making the rounds in Baltimore, hoping to gain steam and further notoriety. They aren't alone. Baltimore and its surrounding areas, believe it or not, are and have been a fruitful breeding ground for hopeful metal bands for years.
"Baltimore is great for bands starting out, because it's so close to Richmond, D.C., and NYC. As big bands come through, they create opportunities for local bands to step up and play in front of an audience," says American Centaur guitarist Zack. As unlikely as it may seem, crowds of devoted local fans pack into small performing rooms of local bars to see local bands deliver genuine metal on a regular basis. "I enjoy this because these guys on stage are about the music, and nothing else," says Craig, a Baltimore resident who attends every concert he has a chance to. American Centaur is about bringing the rock, with out the frills, makeup, or sally-boy outfits. "We're here to play the music to those who show up regularly, but more importantly, we're here to deliver the music to those first timers who haven't heard anything like this before," said the bands' bassist Brent.
The music of American Centaur was "a combination of heavy blues-grit and raw chunk that threatens to kick your teeth down your throat," as described by Brent. Trey's consistent and dynamic rhythm on the drums makes a solid foundation for the band to build on. Backed up by the quick bass of Brent, the thick guitar of Zack, and the howling vocals of Teet, the band gives a rush that is welcomed by the audience.
In between songs, the fans screamed cheers at the stage, and raised their sixth or seventh bottles of beer to the stage. Teet responded with hilarious lude remarks, and by chugging several brews himself. Overall the audience was pretty laid back, only exploding into shouts after a song, or screaming following one of Teet's shotgun firing pantomimes.
Following the show, the band packs up their gear, and then promptly makes rounds in the crowded room, talking to the audience, and sharing shots of Jaegermeister with appreciative fans -- exactly what's to be expected from this type of band. Described by Zack as "dirty, psychadelic blues-rock with an edge," American Centaur unleashes a soundtrack perfect for a blurred night of deer hunting with an out-of-control El Camino.
American Centaur is not the only band of rockers trying to make it in Baltimore. There exists a handful of talented bands who congregate in Baltimore for stage time, and inspiration from other local bands in the audience. When interviewing Zack, Trey, Brent, and Teet, each made it very clear that they wouldn't be where they are without the help they received from other bands, and the continued support of Baltimore's music community. Rather than promote their next show, or their upcoming cd release later this winter, American Centaur encourages fans to attend other local bands' shows, such as Compression and Monger, who "bring diversity and growth to the music, keeping it on its toes," states Brent.
So if you like live metal and aren't afraid to hear something new and unfamiliar, check out local shows. You'll probably find something you like. The atmosphere welcomes everyone and the bands would love to share your bottle of whiskey.
Finding a performance is even easier. You can check the arts section of the Baltimore Sun, or check around on the Internet; but by far, the easiest way to find a performance is just to ask around. Go on to a local bands Web site and drop them an e-mail, they'll hastily get back to you. If you don't like the music of one band, keep looking, you're bound to find something you enjoy. For more information on American Centaur, visit the band's Web site at http://www.americancentaur.com/.
