In a recent interview, Lamb of God's guitarist Mark Morton opened up about the band's creative process and his personal favorite album. This insight into the world of heavy metal songwriting offers a unique perspective on the evolution of a legendary band.
The Evolution of Lamb of God's Sound
Morton revealed that the band's latest album, "Into Oblivion," was a deliberate effort to step out of their comfort zones and explore new compositional and creative territories. This intentional approach is a hallmark of their success, with every element carefully crafted.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the band's ability to reflect on their own evolution. Morton mentioned revisiting their early influences, such as early 2000s metal, to inspire their new work. This self-awareness and willingness to experiment are key to their longevity and relevance in the music industry.
The Role of Riffs and Collaboration
One thing that immediately stands out is the importance of guitar riffs in Lamb of God's songwriting process. Morton and his fellow guitarist, Willie Adler, constantly collect and compare riffs, building songs around these foundational elements. This collaborative approach is a testament to their synergy and the band's overall dynamic.
Morton's Favorite Album: "As The Palaces Burn"
When asked to choose his favorite Lamb of God album, Morton selected "As The Palaces Burn." He explained that this album captures the band's early songwriting prowess, with a unique and fiery sound. It represents a time when the band was just finding its footing, and the raw energy is palpable.
"As The Palaces Burn" is a special record for Morton, as it showcases the band's ability to create distinct songs with their own character, despite a simple production style. It's a testament to the band's early potential and a reminder of their humble beginnings.
The Impact of Influences
Morton's decision to revisit his early influences, such as The Haunted, At the Gates, and Meshuggah, had a profound impact on the band's sound. He found inspiration in the essence of these bands, particularly Meshuggah's "Destroy Erase Improve" album, which he described as a big influence.
This raises a deeper question about the nature of influence in music. How do artists balance paying homage to their influences while still creating something unique? Morton's approach seems to be a delicate dance between the two.
The Drummer's Perspective: Art Cruz
The addition of drummer Art Cruz to the band has brought a fresh perspective. As a longtime fan of Lamb of God, Cruz offers an insider's view of the band's history, which has become a valuable resource for the songwriting process.
Morton noted that Cruz's comfort level has evolved, allowing him to spread his wings and contribute more freely to the band's sound. This evolution is evident in their latest albums, where the drums have been treated with a more conservative approach, honoring the band's established sound while still allowing for growth.
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 features in Metal Hammer and Kerrang!, solidifying Lamb of God's status as New Wave of American Heavy Metal giants.
The album's production, handled by longtime collaborator Josh Wilbur, adds to its impact. Recording in locations tied to the band's identity, such as Richmond, Virginia, and the legendary Total Access studio, gives the album an authentic and powerful sound.
Conclusion
Lamb of God's creative process, as revealed by Mark Morton, offers a fascinating insight into the world of heavy metal songwriting. From the importance of guitar riffs to the influence of early 2000s metal and the unique perspective of drummer Art Cruz, the band's evolution is a testament to their dedication and collaborative spirit. "Into Oblivion" is a powerful album that cements Lamb of God's place in the heavy metal landscape.
