Local Artist Spotlight: SML8

Today's local artist spotlight features a band I have photographed probably more than any other band, and they are one of the few bands I have photographed in multiple states. In fact, from February 2011 through June 2012, I didn't miss a single show of theirs.  Hailing from Daytona Beach, SML8 is an industrial metal group that produces what I like to call "harmonious chaos". SML8 is the product of a number of contributing members over the years, but the one constant has been musical mad scientist, Scott Van Horn. Scott is always tirelessly working away and looking for ways to improve the band. Whether it is experimenting and working new elements into his music, adding talented musicians to the live performance for the best live show possible, coming up with ways to improve the stage effects, or thinking up new ideas for merch, Scott truly keeps busy each and every day making sure he is doing everything possible to help SML8 grow as a band.

There's no shortage of good things I could say about the band in its entirety after getting to know everyone over the years. The music offers a myriad of different elements, as you can go from dancing to thrashing to quiet reflection throughout the course of their material. Despite having a few lineup changes over the years, the band always has a great rapport, which is a product of the group being comprised of down to earth people, none more so than Scott. You'd never know just how good Scott is at what he does because of his laid back, humble attitude, but get him on a conversation about gear or sound production, and you'll know you're dealing with someone who knows his stuff. The band enjoys doing what they do, and it's so much more enjoyable to watch a group who you can connect with by talking to them (and I mean talking, not just exchanging shallow pleasantries) at the merch table, a very well organized and thought out table by Skye, I might add. Their first full length CD, Surreality, features a rare production quality and attention to detail that often is lacking with other local musicians. Overall, there's a lot to admire and respect about the group.

Now, shameless pitch: SML8 actually has an Indiegogo campaign running right now to help fund their forthcoming EP, Incept. As per usual, there are a ton of great perks available of contributing, and you'll notice that there are deals to be had. Very rarely will you find full album downloads for $5, like their deal for Surreality. If you take a listen and really love what you hear, the $50 for all of their work past, present, and future will be a steal. They've got old demos, a song cover, and other unreleased material that is definitely worth hearing, and getting all the subsequent releases makes it the gift that keeps on giving. The link to the campaign is below. Let me know what you think!

http://igg.me/at/SML8Incept/x/148216