About This Footage
The year is 1984, and the music world is abuzz with the emergence of thrash metal and hardcore punk. Amidst this sonic revolution, a rare and fascinating clip has surfaced, showcasing the intersection of two influential bands: S.O.D. (Stormtroopers of Death) and Fear. This footage, titled "YO! I don’t care about you- Charlie Benante FEAR- Lee Ving, scott Ian, Dan Lilker," is a live performance that not only highlights the camaraderie between these musicians but also underscores the profound impact that Fear's debut album, The Record, had on S.O.D.'s sound.
At this point in their careers, S.O.D. was still an up-and-coming band, known for their high-energy live performances and irreverent humor. Scott Ian, one of the founding members, was already gaining recognition as a guitarist with Anthrax, but his work with S.O.D. was just beginning to gain traction. The band's music was heavily influenced by the punk and hardcore scenes, and it's clear that Fear's album, released in 1982, had left an indelible mark on their sound. As Scott Ian recalls, "The Record" was a direct influence on S.O.D.'s music, with its raw energy and unapologetic attitude.
This live performance is significant not only because of the musicians involved but also due to the circumstances surrounding it. The clip begins with an enthusiastic introduction by Charlie Benante, who exclaims, "How the hell did you guys hook up with Lee Ving?" This question gets to the heart of what makes this footage so remarkable – the fact that Lee Ving, the iconic frontman of Fear, had been paying attention to S.O.D.'s social media presence and reached out to collaborate on a track. As Scott Ian notes, "First off, the fact that Lee was even paying attention to our Instajams blows my mind."
The performance itself is a testament to the chemistry between these musicians. The energy is palpable as they launch into a blistering rendition of Fear's classic song, "I Don't Care About You." The clip is a rare glimpse into the camaraderie and mutual respect that existed between these bands during this period. It's clear that S.O.D. was deeply influenced by Fear's music, and it's equally evident that Lee Ving was a fan of their work.
One aspect that stands out in this footage is the way it captures the spirit of collaboration and friendship that defined the early days of thrash metal and hardcore punk. These musicians were not just performing together; they were also paying homage to the influences that had shaped their music. As Scott Ian notes, "When scott started drawing the S.O.D. comic strips in 1984 Sgt. D was basically a zombie Lee." This comment highlights the enduring impact of Fear's music on S.O.D.'s sound and aesthetic.
Watching this clip is akin to stepping into a time capsule, transporting viewers back to an era when punk and metal were still evolving as genres. It's a testament to the power of music to bring people together and inspire new creative endeavors. As Lee Ving himself notes in the YouTube description, "We are all such huge fans of Lee and Fear." This sentiment is echoed by Scott Ian, who recalls watching Fear's performances in Decline of the Western Civilization over and over, marveling at their ability to not give a fuck.
In conclusion, this rare clip is more than just a historical artifact – it's a testament to the enduring influence of Fear's music on S.O.D.'s sound. It's a celebration of the camaraderie and mutual respect that existed between these musicians during this period. As viewers watch this performance, they'll gain a deeper understanding of the musical landscape in 1984 and the profound impact that Fear had on the emerging thrash metal scene.
Curated from public records and music databases.
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