In the labyrinthine depths of the metal underground, Malignus emerged as a formidable force, their anthems of rage and discontent resonating with a visceral intensity. Their signature track, "Anger Makes Me Better," became an anthem for the dispossessed and disenfranchised, propelling the band into the forefront of the extreme metal scene.
Origins and Early Struggles
Malignus was formed in the industrial wasteland of Birmingham, England, in 1999. The band's founders, vocalist Damien Thorne and guitarist Simon "Necro" Robertson, shared a mutual affinity for the crushing riffs and blistering vocals of bands like Morbid Angel and Death. Despite their passion, the early years were marked by challenges, including lineup instability and a lack of label support.
The Rise of "Anger Makes Me Better"
In 2005, everything changed with the release of Malignus' sophomore album, "The Serpent's Tongue." The album's centerpiece, "Anger Makes Me Better," was an instant classic, its pulverizing riffs and venomous lyrics capturing the essence of the band's unyielding rage. The track became an underground sensation, propelling Malignus to wider recognition.
Throughout their career, Malignus has undergone several lineup changes. The current lineup consists of:
* Damien Thorne (vocals) * Simon "Necro" Robertson (guitar) * Marcus "The Butcher" Matthews (guitar) * Joe "The Impaler" Livermore (bass) * Jake "Hellhammer" Howard (drums)
Controversies
Malignus has never shied away from controversy. Their lyrics often tackle taboo subjects such as violence, misanthropy, and the occult. In 2009, the band was banned from performing at a festival in Germany due to the alleged "blasphemous" nature of their music. However, such controversies have only served to fuel their popularity among fans who embrace their uncompromising approach.
Legacy
Over the past two decades, Malignus has established themselves as one of the most respected and influential bands in the extreme metal genre. Their relentless energy, thought-provoking lyrics, and unwavering dedication to their craft have earned them a devoted following worldwide. As they continue to unleash their sonic fury, Malignus remains a testament to the power of anger and the relentless pursuit of self-expression.