ASYLUM are a the new band featuring members of DETHKLOK, STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, DAATH and ICED EARTH.
"Asylum was formed in late 2005, early 2006 by Marcus Johnson and Johnny Rox. The two had previously played together in a former band and decided it was time to dedicate their efforts full time to recording and producing an album of all-original tracks for the world to hear. Having just separated from their previous drummer and lead guitarist, they enlisted close friend Kevin Talley to record the drums on the album. Kevin was an early finalist in the audition for SLAYER before Dave Lombardo came back into the fold. Kevin's previous resume is about as impressive as it comes in the underground world of heavy metal. including tours and records with DYING FETUS, MISERY INDEX, CHIMAIRA, HATE ETERNAL, THE RED CHORD, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, and DAATH.
It was at this time during the recording of the drum tracks that Asylum befriended Larry Tarnowski, former lead guitarist of ICED EARTH. Larry has a gold record for his work with Iced Earth, and recorded second lead guitars on the album.
In addition, around October 2006, Asylum met drummer Gene Hoglan. Mr. Hoglan has one of the most impressive resumes in heavy metal dating back to the early 1980's including DARK ANGEL, TESTAMENT, DEATH, STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, and most recently the hit television show Metalocalypse on Cartoon Network's Adult Swim.
Upon their meeting, the three discussed the possibilities of recording a bonus cover tune for the album. VAN HALEN's 'Get Up' from their 5150 album was chosen for its unusual double-bass heavy drumming and utter driving nature. Upon completion of the recording of the song, Asylum became friends with Brendon Small, co-creator of Metalocalypse/Dethklok, who was introduced to them by Gene Hoglan. Gene had just finished recording drums for the Dethklok album which was released September 26th. As of it's second week of release, Dethklok: The Dethalbum is at #21 on the Billboard Charts.
As it turns out, Brendon Small agreed to contribute the guitar solo on the bonus track. Since their collaboration with Dethklok, Asylum was introduced to Grammy nominee Ulrich Wild, best known for his mixing/engineering work with DETHKLOK, SLIPKNOT, STATIC-X, PANTERA and WHITE ZOMBIE.
Ulrich Wild will be mixing Asylum's debut album upon completion. In addition, it was at this time that Asylum was also introduced to Tom Baker, best known for his mastering capabilities with bands like NINE INCH NAILS, MARILYN MANSON, MÖTLEY CRÜE, WHITE ZOMBIE and VELVET REVOLVER. Tom has agreed to master Asylum's album upon completion.
As of fall/winter 2007, Asylum is relocating to Hollywood, CA to continue the journey they set out to accomplish, which is to land a record deal and tour the world.
Check out the band online at this location: www.myspace.com/officialasylum
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