Local San Angelo Band on the Path to Success

Three years ago, a group of four San Angeloans came together in a unique way and are now hoping to share their musical talents with the community.  Although none of them have any formal training in music, they have managed to mesh creatively and form their self proclaimed genre of "groove/tech metal with a low octave twist."

When describing their brand, Joe Watkins, guitarist for "Embrace the Machine," said, "It's basically built off syncopation with the guitar and drums. We try to keep things as simple as possible.

Watkins also said he and Jim Wheeler, drummer, both originally from Ballinger, used to be in another band called "Sindrone." He said they "basically grew up together" and were "both intrigued by the sounds of the band Korn." Harvey Ruiz, bass player, originally from Ozona, and vocalist Josh Moore were also in two other bands, and attributed it to "fate" when the four just "clicked" at other jam sessions. Through various methods of communication, they eventually got together and started writing music.  

Watkins said, "It took a couple of months to decide which direction we wanted to go and where to place everyone, but once we got the first song written, the pace was set."

The four were extremely complimentary regarding previous band mates, but as Moore explained, "In the creative process, there has to be an honesty that is relayed and accepted constructively. If I don't like what someone else suggests, I will tell them straight out and vice-versa. What we have now just works."

Watkins added, "It's been a real blessing that we all work together so well, as if we were family."

Regarding further definition of the genre, Watkins said, "Some of our stuff has screams, but most of it is clean vocals with a lot of rythm."  He said, in the past, he has invited friends to come to their performances and when he tries to explain their sound, many seem perplexed, but once they have heard it, they love it.

Moore added that they have played a couple of country western clubs, and although their music is heavier than most are used to, they received many compliments and believe they have recruited some new fans. Whether they play to a full house, or to the bartender, Watkins said, "We play our best, and it's the greatest feeling in the world to do what you love."

All four members agreed, they are "determined to bring something unique to Texas as their next steps are limitless." Moore stated, when performing, he has one rule, "No one is to stand still; everybody head bangs with the band." He said years ago when he attended another concert, and partook in a mosh pit, he had his nose broken, was knocked out and sent to the hospital so "moshing is optional but keep it safe."  

The band is currently working on their first EP, which should be out within the year, but for now, they have a couple of videos posted on You Tube. Moore said he "is in the process of adding the lyrics in the description portion."

The band practices two or three times a week regardless if they have a show coming up or not, and Watkins said, "Prior to, there's that little bit of anxiety, but otherwise it's a fairly normal day."  

Most recently, they played in Abilene and will once again dominate the stage at the Deadhorse, in downtown San Angelo, at 210 S. Chadbourne, on Saturday April 9th. "Dead Rising" from the DFW area, and "Inhale the Earth," from Abilene, will also perform that evening.  

"We've had the opportunity of sharing the stage with these two incredible acts before, and it an honor to do so again," said Moore.

The group agreed their ultimate goal is to play music full time, but for now, Watkins and Wheeler work in construction and commercial air conditioning and Moore is an instructor at Goodfellow Air Force base. Ruiz works security at Howard College and is taking some courses majoring in Computer Information Systems.  

ETM has been contacted by various promoters as far away as Los Angeles, California and look forward to traveling and performing with bigger known names. The band emphasized, "Even if we played to sold out arenas, we would have no problem coming back home to play smaller venues again."  

"12 Foot Ninja, Meshuggah, Fear Factory and Soilwork" are just a few of the big names they would love to tour with one day. Watkins said, as for fans, "We would like people to just give us a shot, even if you don't like metal, check us out anyway."  

Moore said, "It doesn't have to be us; just open your mind, and try listening to something different as you just may be surprised."

For booking and further information, as well as sound bites, check them out at "Embrace the Machine" on Facebook. For marketing information, email Andy Allen at [email protected]