User:Sharkdrummer/Surrealism (band)

Surrealism (Srlsm) is a progressive metal band based in Dallas, Texas. The group has dubbed their own style - "Trip Metal". The band is known for its eccentric stage shows and distinct composing style. The band is influenced by the visual and political aspects of Surrealism. The musical and lyrical content is also influenced by quantum mechanics, religion, spacetime, extraterrestrial life, conspiracy theories, occultism, life and death, and hallucinogenic drugs. The band has shared the stage with Carcass, Suicide Silence, Samael, Psycroptic, Brujeria, Mushroomhead, Possessed, Divine Heresy, Sadistic Intent, Asesino, and many others.

History
The concept for the band, Surrealism, was originated by Brian Cravey and Travis Hampe in 2005. Combining Travis' surreal artistic vision with Brian's distinct composing style on the guitar, Srlsm was born. The sound and style truly began to take form, however, with the addition of the rhythm section; Derek "Spoon" Ball on bass guitar and Noah "Shark" Robertson on drums. The four band members would meet while studying music at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas. Shortly after a few collaborations however, they simultaneously dropped out of college to persue their new musical project. After a long, rough period of searching for a singer who fit the attitude and ability of Surrealism, the band stumbled upon 1000 Car Crashes Waiting to Happen, an original musical project out of Cleburne, Texas. The duo consisted of guitar player Jeff "Jazzy" Patterson and vocalist Bryan Sullivan. The two newly discovered musicians joined Srlsm in late 2005. In 2006 the band released their self-recorded "Treeman" demo. Soon after the release of this initial recording, the band relocated to Dallas, Texas in search of more opportunities. The band paid their dues and harnessed their sound by performing all over the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, which resulted in a strong local following and a demand for more. In 2008, Srlsm released their debut, self-titled EP "Srlsm" (otherwise known as the "Toetag" EP), recorded at Indian Trail Studios with producer Alex Gerst. The release included a DVD made in collaboration with Abstract Films' director Jason Vandygriff. The EP/DVD combo recieved stellar reviews from fans and critics alike. In late 2008 Jeff Patterson left the band and was replaced by experienced shredder, Sam Paquette. Soon after, Travis Hampe would cease to continue contributing to the project. The band would eventually go on to earn local headlining status, opening slots on national tours, and some festival appearances; such as Texas Metal Fest 2009, Houston Metal Fest 2009, and Austin Metal Fest 2009. Long time Srlsm vocalist, Bryan Sullivan, would eventually part ways with the band mid 2009. Vocal auditions are currently being held and Srlsm has re-entered the studio with producer Alex Gerst to begin working on their sophmore E.P. Srlsm will begin touring in support of their newest sonic venture Summer 2009.

The "S" Logo
The Srlsm "S" logo is derived from the fishhook shape of the Hei Matau; a symbol of good luck, strength, determination, fertility, prosperity, and safe travel over water. Māori legend holds that the North Island of New Zealand was once a huge fish that was caught by the great mariner Maui using only a woven line and a bone hook. Legend holds that the shape of Hawke Bay is that of the hei matau, which caught in the fish's side. Traditionally, bone hei matau were carved from whale bone. There are many variations of the Hei Matau, however the "s" shaped "fish tail" design has become synonymous with the band's logo.

Members
Current

Brian "Cravey" Cravey - Guitar (2005 - present) Derek "Spoon" Ball - Bass (2005 - present) Noah "Shark" Robertson - Drums (2005 - present) Sam Paquette - Guitar (2008 - present)

Former

Travis "Trampis" Hampe - Lyrics, Visual Art, Backing Vocals (live) (2005 - 2009) Jeff "Jazzy" Patterson - Guitar (2005 - 2008) Bryan Sullivan - Vocals (2005 - 2009)

Other

Jake "Pyro" Edwards - Stage performer, Crew Member, Saxophone (live) (2005 - present)

Discography

 * 2006: "Treeman" Demo
 * 2008: "Srlsm"

Videography

 * 2006: Demo DVD
 * 2008: "Srlsm - Volume 1" DVD