Billy from Hays, KS, self-described as “Plains trash,” bursts onto the music scene with their debut album, “American Experiment.” Released in June 2023, this raw and unapologetic collection of tracks showcases the band’s untamed energy. Billy’s music is an unfiltered representation of their roots, capturing the essence of small-town struggles and triumphs. With their debut album, this talented group provides an authentic and unfiltered glimpse into the human experience of small-town existence.
Billy’s album “American Experiment” hits hard with grinding guitar riffs and a dynamic interplay between heavy and quiet moments. The band weaves in subdued breakdowns with muted vocals, creating a contrast that adds depth to their sound, as heard in the track “PAWG.” The ringing strings, eerie melodies, and driving bass riffs further contribute to the atmospheric quality of their music, throwing listeners into a pit of emotion. Drawing influences from Slam Metal, Billy incorporates the intense and aggressive style into their repertoire, blending fry screams and low vocal growls to deliver a powerful and visceral performance. This is complemented by the band’s ability to create rhythmic vocals and hard-as-f@#k drum lines that add an infectious and memorable quality to their songs.
In addition to their driving sound, Billy showcases lyrical, intelligent, and raw prowess. The band strikes a delicate balance, delivering thought-provoking verses without overthinking their message. Within “American Experiment,” Billy fearlessly delves into various themes, touching on personal experiences and broader societal issues.
Billy explores the dark corners of toxic relationships in “PAWG,” offering a raw and unflinching portrayal of the struggle between emotions and sexual desires. In “Ginger Cat,” the band delves into generational trauma and poverty. Through their music, Billy from Hays, KS, showcases a profound understanding of the world around them, provoking thought and encouraging listeners to join in music as a release from the weight of the world. Traditional metal/death/grindcore listeners may be turned off as Billy doesn’t submit to cliche violence in their lyrics – though not a turn-off for this listener, as I feel it’s a sign of their intelligence (take note as they grow).
My take overall on “American Experiment”? If Billy is “Plains trash,” I want to play in the dumpster! Find this band, see them live, support them, download their album, and tell your friends about them…Billy is just getting warmed up…
Billy is:
Booker Rohlf
Zach Mars
Matthew Basgall
Trevor Pfeifer
