Carnifex

For more than 25 years, Death Metal has been the most maniacal and vicious form of rock. Covering the obscene and praising the perverse, extreme Death Metal still reigns as the driving force that continues to devour all other forms of hard rock. As each year passes in this brutal movement, it becomes increasingly difficult to find suitable leaders to carry the torch and continue to entice and surprise an audience that certainly isn’t shocked or impressed by much. That search has ended. Allow us to introduce CARNIFEX. Derived from the Old English word for executioner, their moniker could not be more appropriate. It’s a word that reeks of death and destruction from the Dark Ages to describe a fiercely morbid death metal band. It’s hard to imagine that San Diego – known for its white sand beaches, endless sunny days and astronomical real estate- is also home to the brutal beat down that is CARNIFEX.

In 2005, vocalist Scott Lewis had a chance meeting with like-minded, gifted drummer Shawn Cameron. Having both played in a countless number of bands over the years that just didn’t seem to fit, the connection between the two was felt instantly. Together, they began a search to fill the musical void that had existed in each of their lives. They quickly formed a group and hit the road. CARNIFEX, being the serious-minded musicians that they are, hit the road hard. Refusing to be another “here today, gone tomorrow” trend, CARNIFEX let nothing stop them from perfecting their live show, touring relentlessly, and writing brainsick, yet intelligent, songs. Having endured everything from tour cancellations, van breakdowns and inevitable line-up changes, that “magical fit” was solidified by the end of 2007. Scott and Shawn were complemented by the intensity of guitarist Cory Arford. Bassist Fred Calderon rounded out the furious unstoppable juggernaut.

The non-stop touring and methodical songwriting eventually resulted in CARNIFEX selling over 15,000 copies of their first full-length album, Dead in My Arms, with little publicity. Not surprisingly, industry types started to notice; however, none as quickly as Victory Records. Having spent a lot of time writing during the previous year, CARNIFEX was primed to get into the studio to begin the masterpiece that is The Diseased and the Poisoned. Zeuss (UNEARTH, SHADOWS FALL, HATEBREED) at Planet Z Studios was a natural choice for producer, and they entered the studio rapidly and intently.

CARNIFEX is something musically unique. What really makes CARNIFEX stand out from the throngs of other hard rock acts currently scouring the planet are their savage live performances. Their declaration to make every night an experience for fans rather than just a show has proven to be the most appreciated trait of the band among fans. But you can keep your pyrotechnics and other special effects at home CARNIFEX relies solely on the power of their music. “Every night, we strive to play extremely tight. Sometimes it can be difficult to make such an intense show so interactive, but we make sure that
everyone is getting involved,” says Lewis.

In 2008, CARNIFEX proudly delivered the The Diseased and the Poisoned to the metal masses. Intriguing and armed to the teeth with an arsenal of blast beats, machine gun riffs and vocals exorcised from the deepest pits of hell, The Diseased and the Poisoned is the soundtrack to your worst nightmare. Having sold 28,000 copies in the U.S. alone, this record was a huge success, solidifying their spot in the American Death Metal realm.

In 2010, CARNIFEX released Hell Chose Me, taking a darker and more blasphemous approach to their already visceral sound. Musical growth and a higher level of aggression coupled with themes of despair and isolation make for an abrasive new record. Blood curdling screams, guttural growls, bottom heavy baselines, and razorsharp guitar riffs make for dark and brutal work.

After a short hiatus, CARNIFEX is back stronger than ever and with a new home. “Signing with Nuclear Blast is a career defining moment for CARNIFEX,” states Lewis. “To be aligned with the largest metal label on earth is a true honor. This world-wide deal signals a turning point for us as a band and individuals. Together with Nuclear Blast you will see CARNIFEX like you have never seen us before. Prepare yourself for an album that crushes any and all expectations. An album that will stand as the definitive mark for modern metal.”

Die Without Hope marks the long awaited return of the band, with their fifth full-length album and Nuclear Blast debut. 10 tracks and over 35 minutes of crushing metal that no fan of heavy music can deny. Recorded at Audiohammer Studios in Sanford, FL and produced by the esteemed Mark Lewis (ARSIS, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER, WHITECHAPEL, DEVILDRIVER, DEICIDE, SIX FEET UNDER), San Diego's finest metal export deliver an album that stands as a definitive cornerstone for modern death metal. Since their formation, CARNIFEX has proven time and time again that their die-hard fan base combined with their DIY work ethic is unmatched; Die Without Hope is no exception.

CARNIFEX’s relentless touring schedule begins with an extensive 5 week headlining tour February 21st though March 29th. Taking the band through all of North America. Followed by a direct support slot to
a major band in April, which includes an appearance at the 2014 New England Metal and Hardcore
Festival.