The Accused: A History of Controversy and Metal Mayhem
In the annals of heavy metal, The Accused stands as a band shrouded in notoriety and musical intensity. Their infamous track "13 Letters" has become synonymous with their confrontational lyrics and blistering sound.
Origins and Early Years (1981-1989)
The Accused was founded in Seattle, Washington in 1981 by vocalist Blaine Cook, guitarist Tom Niemeyer, bassist Alex Peterson, and drummer Dana Collins. Their raw and aggressive style quickly gained them a cult following in the underground metal scene.
"13 Letters" and the Controversies (1989)
The release of their album "Martha Splatterhead" in 1989 catapulted The Accused into the spotlight. The album's lead single, "13 Letters," featured a disturbing and explicit depiction of a serial killer's diary. The lyrics, coupled with the band's raw energy, sparked outrage and controversy.
Advocacy groups condemned the song as glorifying violence against women, while others defended it as a commentary on the societal fascination with serial killers. The band found themselves at the center of a heated debate, resulting in widespread media attention.
Challenges and Line-Up Changes (1990-1996)
The controversy surrounding "13 Letters" took its toll on the band. They faced resistance from venues, had their records censored, and experienced personal and professional turmoil. As a result, the band's lineup underwent several changes over the years.
Despite the challenges, The Accused continued to release albums and tour extensively. Their music remained confrontational and uncompromising, earning them a reputation as one of the most intense live acts in the metal scene.
Reformation and Legacy (1999-Present)
After a hiatus, The Accused reformed in 1999 with a new lineup. They continued to release albums and tour, showcasing their unwavering passion for heavy metal. While the controversy surrounding "13 Letters" never fully dissipated, it has become an integral part of the band's legacy.
Members
Throughout their career, The Accused has featured a revolving cast of members. Notable musicians include:
* Blaine Cook (vocals) * Tom Niemeyer (guitar) * Alex Peterson (bass) * Dana Collins (drums) * Steve Nelson (guitar) * Brandt Sandeno (bass) * Sean Wright (drums)
Discography
The Accused has released a prolific catalog of albums, including:
* "The Accused" (1985) * "More Fun Than an Open Casket" (1987) * "Martha Splatterhead" (1989) * "Straight Razor" (1992) * "Return of Martha Splatterhead" (2002) * "Rebirth" (2015)
Conclusion
The Accused remains a polarizing force in heavy metal. Their music is both confrontational and cathartic, challenging societal norms and exploring the darker recesses of the human psyche. Despite the controversies that have plagued their career, The Accused has maintained a loyal following and continues to push the boundaries of the genre.