Pete Sandoval, drummer for I Am Morbid, recently shared his thoughts on the metal scene in America, suggesting that its prominence has waned compared to its glory days. Speaking with Francisco Zamudio of KNAC.COM, Sandoval highlighted the genre’s evolution and the stark differences between the American and European metal scenes.
“We’ve witnessed firsthand how the metal scene grew and expanded,” Sandoval recalled. “In Florida, we were among the first wave of death metal bands—Death, Morbid Angel, Deicide, Amon, Obituary, Cannibal Corpse. Alongside European pioneers like Kreator, Destruction, Sodom, and Bathory, we laid the foundation for the countless bands we see today.”
Sandoval also noted the chronological rise of subgenres within metal: “Death metal dominated the late ’80s and early ’90s, and then came black metal. Black metal got big in certain areas, but overall, metal has remained much larger and more appreciated in Europe.”
This disparity has influenced I Am Morbid’s touring strategy. “We perform more often in Europe because the audience there truly values this style of music,” Sandoval explained. “However, we’re proving ourselves in the States too. Things are going great, but the scene here isn’t as vibrant as it used to be.”
Metal’s Divide: Europe vs. America
The conversation mirrors sentiments shared by K.K. Downing, former Judas Priest guitarist, who spoke with American Songwriter about the stark contrasts between European and American metal cultures.
“In Europe, fans save up for festivals where they can see 60 to 80 bands over a weekend,” Downing remarked. “We now have hundreds of festivals there. In the States, though, it’s different. People might splurge on a single big show—Metallica or AC/DC—but they don’t frequent local theaters or clubs to see smaller bands as much.”
I Am Morbid Hits the Road
Despite these challenges, I Am Morbid is bringing their music to American fans through their Devastation on the Nation 2024 U.S. Tour. The trek began in Tampa on November 15 and will continue with their next performance in Worcester, Massachusetts, on December 10.
Sandoval’s reflections and the band’s determination showcase their enduring passion for keeping metal alive, even in a landscape that feels less vibrant stateside.