Originally published in ‘zine issue #9, 1993
Rift of Hate
by Rob Gredone
In the world of “death metal,” it seems that that everyone and their brother has got a band. Nowadays it also seems that there is quite a difference in the music put out by neighboring bands in Virginia and Maryland. Virginia bands, more or less, compose their music about the occult, and Maryland bands generally concentrate on straightforward, everyday stuff. There is nothing wrong with either side of the music. The problems have been occurring only by word of mouth. For some reason Virginia bands seem to think that the whole Maryland scene is out to get them—wrong!
Actions and words are being misinterpreted and turned around. Both scenes are guilty of this. But when one whole scene boycotts another, the results are definitely noticeable. Poor attendance at shows, whether it be a local act or a national one, is becoming a regular occurrence. Maryland and Virginia have quite a few good bands. Wouldn’t it make more sense to quit fighting over trivial things and get together and put on some great shows? Not much else needs to be said, and the bands know what needs to be done. “Can’t we all just get along?” ■
