Voice of the Underground

SHUNNED: THE METAL VOICE OF FORT WAYNE!!

September 2007

Formed in 2001 from the ashes of several local bands, Shunned set forth to create their own brand of metal filled with hard-driving energy with infectious grooves. Metal trends seem to come and go, but Shunned have stood their ground. Backed by their beliefs of giving their fans the very best original, and fairly diverse brand of metal unlike any other band can offer.

As with most any young band starting out, Shunned too has had it's share of line-up changes. But these changes were only for the better of the band and the type of music they want to create. Along with members Scott and Mack, the addition of Jef , Wade and Eric have only strengthened and solidified the band.

Guitarist Mack states, "the vibe in the band is stronger than it has ever been before. The creative juices are flowing and the new material is flowing even faster."

The band recently landed endorsement deals with Tradition Guitars and Curt Mangan Strings and are looking to make the next step to be able to continue to create great music for the metal world.

With the wide range of influences each member brings to the table, it's hard not to realize Shunned's brand of music is and will be something to be desired by the masses. Some of their influences include Machine Head, Randy Rhoads, Snot, Arch Enemy, Iron Maiden, Anthrax, Dream Theatre, Soulfly, Chimaira, Clutch, Armored Saint and the list goes on.

With their work ethics in order, Shunned are ready to take on the metal world full force. Their only concernis, and it's a good one, is the world ready for what they are about to unleash?

SCOTT EARLEY & ERIC TURNER Of SHUNNED SPEAKS!

1. How long have you guys been around in the music scene?

As individauls, some of us have been in the wonderful world of music since the late 80's - early 90's. We've all been in different genres but always seem to find our home in metal. Collectively, we have been together as this line up since about mid-November of last year though the band has been around for six and a half years.

2. Tell me something I should be warned about Shunned?

Beware of excessive volume, excessive drinking, falling bass rigs, and new material yet to be recorded.

3. Whats the scene like there in Ft. Wayne & how does Shunned fit into the mix?

The metal scene in Ft. Wayne is nothing like it used to be even 5 years ago. There are still a handful of quality acts that stick together and don't talk shit about one another. Most of the all ages venues have closed up over the years due to stupid laws like smoking bans and other recent trends. Though, we still try to play as many local and area as we can. We're always working to earn new fans everytime we play anywhere, all ages or 21 and up clubs.

4. Whats the bands long and short term goals as far as touring, recording, writing etc...?

We're not doing any major touring right now, but are always looking for opportunities to do so. We plan on hitting it hard at the beginning of the year if not sooner. We are always writing and expanding our new material and sound. We're also always recording new demos for a future full legnth release due out by next spring.

5. What would you say is your biggest gripe about the music industry?

It seems now days its easier for unsigned artist to be heard, but, it also doesn't mean the right ears are listening or will even give you the time of day.It's very frustrating when good quality acts go unnoticed, but the mediocre acts seem to get all the opportunities and don't act like it means shit to them.

6. Tell me more about Shunned music & subject matters of your songs?

Shunneds music has always reflected subjects that most everyone can relate to. Hense the name of the band. Though, some songs more of a personal meaning to us, we still its relavant to the pain, anguish, and victries we can all relate to.

7. What do you feel sets Shunned, your band, apart from other metal acts?

Diversity, dynamics, and power. The way our live energy translates through our recordings and especially into our live shows. The personal interaction with fans before and after shows the comeradery with other bands we play with. We always try to keep our music and our personalities accessable.

8. Are you looking forward to the upcoming Indy fest in a few weeks?

You mean we're playing that? Oh hell yeah! We're stoked that we have the chance to see and meet new faces and new bands. It's just a great chance to network and see some of our favorite bands!

9. Who would you like to tour with and why?

Oh shit! That list would be so long. Given the opportunity, we'd love to tour with a band we would mix well with such as Diecast. We opened for those guys and Drowning Pool acouple months ago and they were all so totally down to earth and cool! Current Fav's would be Machine Head, Threat Signal, and Arch Enemy Just to name a few. That alone would be a dream come true!

10.Do you have a special ritual that you guys do before you hit the stage?

We stand in a circle and make a toast and say "for life"! Followed by severalmore toasts throughout the night of course!

11. Parting shot?

We just can't wait to see everybody in Indy and look forward to fuckin' it up for ya!