XERATH Seeks New Bassist

U.K.-based experimental/progressive extreme metallers XERATH have issued the following update:

"As you have probably noticed, weve had a bit of a shift around in the XERATH camp. Andy Phillips no longer plays guitar for the band, that role has been taken by previous XERATH bassist, Owain Williams. So that, of course, means we are in need of a new bassist!

Terms:

* Musicians will be auditioned by demo or previous bands and then in person.

* We are recruiting on a session-player basis at first until we decide who we would like to join the lineup on a permanent basis.

* We will ensure the member does not suffer any band-related financial expense whilst onboard as a session player — this includes practices etc... The member will be paid for any live shows in so far as possible within the budgets available.

* Once we invite the member to become a full member of the official lineup - that member will continue to earn money for live shows and will have the opportunity to get involved in writing and thus will earn a percentage in record sales along with the band.
* This position will be demanding in every respect but ultimately rewarding as the band progresses and grows with its future releases.

Requirements;

* Must live in U.K., preferably travelling distance from North Hampshire
* Must be over the age of 18
* Must be able to tour and aspiring to join on a permanent basis (If you have other full-time commitments e.g. university / full-time career this may not be possible)
* Preferably have own gear

For more information, visit the band's MySpace page.

XERATH released its debut album, "Xerath I", on May 25 via Candlelight Records. The CD was mixed in France by Brett Caldas-Lima (CYNIC).

An e-card for the album is available at this location.

According to a press release, XERATH is "a new, cutting-edge band combining crushing MESHUGGAH-style riffs with epic orchestral composition. Their sound can be described as taking influence from STRAPPING YOUNG LAD, MESHUGGAH and DIMMU BORGIR to create a distinctive sound they call 'orchestral groove metal' (or chug-score!)."

The band was formed in 2007 by guitarist Andy Phillips, drummer Michael Pitman and bassist Owain Williams, and was later joined by Richard Thomson on vocals.

Originally started as an experiment to combine film-score scounds with syncopated guitar rhythms, XERATH evolved into a full-fledged gigging band with a clear direction.

Vicky Bradley (a.k.a. Vix the Angel Of Metal) conducted an interview with XERATH at this year's Bloodstock Open Air festival, which was held August 14-16, 2009 at Catton Hall in Derbyshire, England. Watch the chat below.