Paria (band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 2001 |
| Headquarters | Omaha , United States |
| Products | Music albums, EPs, singles |
Paria is a United States-based experimental metal group that originated in 2001 and operates out of Omaha, Nebraska. Their discography includes one EP released through Imagine It Records and two full-length albums distributed by Black Market Activities. After entering an indefinite hiatus in May 2010, the band recommenced work on a third album as of 2021.
Origins and Misanthropos
Established in late 2001 in Omaha, Nebraska, Paria initially embraced a nu metal sound but swiftly evolved toward a fusion of mathcore and grindcore. By 2003, the lineup had solidified, leading to the production of a two-track EP titled The Torn Instances, which was issued by Imagine It Records.
Following the positive reception of their EP, Paria secured a contract with Guy Kozowyk’s Black Market Activities in March 2004 and commenced work on their first full album. That summer, they embarked on a national tour, including an appearance at Houston’s inaugural Texas Murder Fest. Their debut album Misanthropos, released in November 2004, highlighted their advanced technical prowess and experimental metal approach.
Instrumental phase
In the summer of 2005, vocalist Brian Craig and drummer Corey Barnes departed from the band. Eric Schnee, formerly of New Jersey’s The Binding, replaced Barnes on drums, while the vocal role remained vacant. Various guest vocalists such as Paul Pettit and Ben Elliot performed during tours, with Elliot considered for a permanent position. Craig, who was attending college, participated in tours during academic breaks and contributed to pre-production for their upcoming album.
Early in 2007, Schnee left to revive The Binding, and Craig permanently exited to complete his studies. Barnes returned as drummer, and the band proceeded as an instrumental ensemble. This period saw Paria become one of the rare metal acts nominated for Best Metal/Punk/Hardcore at the Omaha Entertainment Awards.
With much of their sophomore album recorded without vocals, they invited former frontman Brian Craig back in June 2008 to contribute guest vocals on select tracks. After completing his degree, Craig rejoined fully to continue recording with vocal elements.
The Barnacle Cordious and hiatus
Their second full-length release, The Barnacle Cordious, arrived in March 2009, reflecting considerable artistic development that transcended conventional song structures. Post-release, Paria toured intermittently across the Midwest, including a show at Kansas City’s American Waste Festival.
On May 24, 2010, the band announced an indefinite break with a final performance set for June 5. They described Paria as an ongoing creative experiment but cited "other priorities" as reasons for suspending activities.
Musical style
Paria combines elements of mathcore and grindcore infused with progressive metal nuances, characterized by distinctive bass patterns, forceful vocals, and vigorous guitar and drum performances.
Discography
- 2004: Misanthropos (Black Market Activities)
- 2009: The Barnacle Cordious (Black Market Activities)
- 2003: The Torn Instances (Imagine It Records)
Singles
• 2023: Venerate
• 2024: Roadblock
• 2024: Abomination
Members
- Present roster
- Brian Craig – Vocals and Guitar (January 2003 to July 2005, June 2008 to May 2010)
- John Claus – Guitar (2001 to May 2010)
- Dustin Treinen – Bass (2001 to May 2010)
- Corey Barnes – Drums (2001 to August 2005, 2007 to May 2010)
- Past members
- Eric Schnee – Drums (November 2005 to January 2007)
- Andrew Gustafson – Guitar
- Aaron Langan – Guitar
- Tim Greenup – Bass
- Steven E. Athay – Vocals (July 2002 to December 2002)
- Touring/live session members
- Ben Elliot – Vocals (January 2006)
External links
- Paria on Black Market Activities website