Soul Destruction. These are two of the most powerful words in the English
language. The first being the very diverse combination of factors that
makes a human being who he is and (according to some) the most precious
thing that an individual possesses. The second, meaning the complete breakdown
and annihilation of something by way of power, be it physical or otherwise.
This combination of words consistently brings to mind two words, diversity
and power. A term aptly used to describe one of the most musically lethal
power-thrash bands to ever emerge from the Midwest.
Formed in October of 1993 in Columbus, Ohio as the brainchild of bassist
Ron Cardwell and drummer Cornell
"Turk" Elliot, the band was initially to be called Mind Rape. The name
was changed to Soul Destruction with the edition of guitarist Randy
Reynolds, Cardwell's cousin, and vocalist Lonny Whitescarver. With a band name intact, and after working
with several rhythm guitarists, the lineup was soon completed with the
addition of vocalist Aaron Werner after parting ways with Whitescarver. Whitescarver
returned to the band in 2000 to complete the band's dual vocal line-up.
From the earliest days of Soul Destruction's existence, the bands diversity
and power were consistently displayed at such local Columbus, Ohio clubs
as the Alrosa Villa and Park Ave. The bands musical diversity has been
displayed by Soul Destruction serving as opening acts for such national
and international acts as Souls At Zero, The Phantom Rockers, Simple
Aggression, 24-7 Spyz, former Iron Maiden lead singer, Bruce Dickinson,
Obituary, Flotsam and Jetsam, Nevermore, Incantation, Pro-Pain, and King
Diamond.
The true diversity of Soul, Destruction's music is crystal clear with a
mere listen. Splicing thrash, death, power groove, and even hard-core influences
with classic rock attitudes and even a hint of classical music, and a variety
of instruments and vocals, Soul Destruction's'' musical catalogue is endless.
From the adrenal rush of such songs as Loss of One and to
the overwhelming dread and fury of Soul Destruction, the
band has the ability to move one physically, as well as emotionally. Songs
such as Regeneration, and Anger
Process use musical experimentation as well as lyrics and vocal harmonies
to arouse anger and to also touch the heart.
Nowhere is Soul Destruction's musical power more on display than in the
bands live performance. Turk Elliot's huge stage presence and solid drum
performance anchors the band, while Ron Cardwell's maniacal convulsions
and Reynolds lumbering stomp provide energy and entertainment alike for
the bands audience. Werner and Whitescarver's theatrical personas and crowd involvement front
man styles make them the bands ultimate cheerleader sending Soul Destruction's
intense performances into a rabid frenzy. These powerful and diverse elements
of personality and style, along with occasionally unannounced appearances
by the bands humorous alter ego " The Crummy Jimmies" assure the bands
nightly goal of sending their audience home thoroughly entertained, and
physically exhausted.
In 1997, Soul Destruction released their widely acclaimed REMNANTS demo
cassette. Now sold out of stock, the cassette was heavily requested at
all of the badness' live performances and shall remain a cult classic to
those fortunate enough to own a copy.
In 1997 guitarist Randy Reynolds took the job of sound technician at Jammer's
West in Columbus OH and established correspondence with Spotlight Talent
Promotions. Reynolds has been responsible for the booking of such national
acts as Obituary, Crisis, Num Skull, Drain STH, and Incantation to
the club via different avenues. Reynolds relationship with Spotlight Talent
has proved, and will prove to be a valuable resource in Soul Destruction's'
ever-growing arsenal.
In 2000, the band signed to Spin Records. The band immediately began writing new material for an
upcoming CD release. The band has recently been working with Recording Workshop engineer Matt Curry whose credits
include Metallica (Load) and Ozzy Osbourne (Ozzmosis). Soul Destruction also began working with nationally
known artist Tom Masse, who has been commissioned by Cleopatra Records and Bob Marley Music. Masse is currently
designing a new band logo and is scheduled to do the cover art for the band's upcoming CD.
On
November 6th, 1998 at a party held at the Alrosa Villa in Columbus, OH
Soul Destruction released
their first
full length CD album entitled
United
In Obscurity... on Knight- Wolf Produtions. The well
balanced, clear production and heavy tones of all the instruments and vocals
in the high quality 9 song CD along with the eye catching cover art is
a shining example of the true diversity and power of Soul Destruction's
music and creativity.
