Ceterum

Initially presenting a complex style derived from numerous elements of ambient metal and progressive rock combined with experimental overtones, Cleveland-based CETERUM continued to hone their moody and melodically dark sound as the project grew into its own. Formed in Great Falls, Montana, in 2001 by Bill Sanchez (bass) and Jason Broussard (drums), the first incarnation was heavily inspired by modern art-rock pioneers Tool and their use of unorthodox song structures and time signatures. Composing adventurous instrumental arrangements, it wasn’t until four years later that the duo finally found the permanent additions they sought in guitarist Jared Amlin and vocalist Ty Jividen. With a complete lineup, the band began to further evolve, while incorporating other aspects to create their musical identity – atmospheric synths and polyrhythmic experimentation, as well as influences ranging from Porcupine Tree, Meshuggah, Pulse Ultra and Karnivool.

With members hailing from various regions of the country, the quartet permanently relocated to Ohio and began playing small shows and building a devoted following. After being tapped to support bands like Soilwork and Helmet, the group garnered local attention in 2008, but the outfit experienced an unexpected hiatus following a facial injury suffered by Jividen, which left him unable to sing for several months. Upon Jividen’s recovery, CETERUM independently released the EP Proportions a year later – a collaboration with multi-platinum, award winning producer Michael Seifert (Dave Matthews Band, Tori Amos).

After the release of Proportions, the band continued to write and sonically mature with an arsenal of diverse material after having solidified their own style of dynamic, heavy rock. CETERUM's debut full-length album, entitled Fathom, was released in December of 2011.

Since the release, the group has gained a small underground following, despite a significant period of inactivity precipitated by Broussard's departure from the group. Sanchez later subsequently withdrew from the project, but the two founding members continued to collaborate, ultimately resulting in a new project called Tranzhumanist. CETERUM's original quartet has since reunited and are currently working to release long-awaited new material.