Uploaded September 2023 | Updated September 2026, 8 hours ago
The word 'destiny' has always drawn mixed emotions from people. Like Forest, there are those who feel we are at the whim of the never ending wind, while others believe we carve out our own paths & respective destinies through the ever changing dynamics of life. I tend to undoubtedly believe the latter; life IS about decisions & every day those decisions cultivate our daily realities; and, the fact that those decisions may revolve around fear, risk & acceptance make them even that more difficult fulfill. Those who are, not only brave enough to face those uncertainties, but ALSO put in the time (& work) behind those commitments,....just might make ALL their hopes come to fruition. SO, when I think of this narrative in the context our Texas metal scene, no other band better exemplifies it than Dallas/Ft. Worth's, Lockjaw! LJ who've already had a LONG lifespan are now FINALLY reaping the rewards of their focus, once new vocalist, Joe Ortiz (former Jackknife), guitarist, Justin McCurley & bassist, Gabe Ayala helped revamp the band. 2023 saw LJ release BOTH a NEW record in the 9-track, full length debut, 'Relentless', but also adopt a new take on Texas metal - straying away from the traditional attitudes of metalcore & adopting an aggressive, melodic & hard-hitting take of what has become the foundation for an explosion of momentum, which has seen the band gain hordes of new fans & acclaim. I AM a HUGE fan of it too, SO, when the band hit San Antonio on August 26th 2023 (at the Paper Tiger) I knew I had to be there to support & work with the band. In the interview below you will see us discuss the following: the evolution of the band, the acclaim (& vibe) of 'Relentless', the deep lyrical themes, their high tech recording process, upcoming shows, video work & much MORE! To the band - 'thank you' so much for your words & friendship. I'll see you in Dallas in 2024 for the next Fest! To the RMW Familia - be sure to jam 'Relentless' & support what's BEST in Texas metal. ~ El Mero Metal
The word 'destiny' has always drawn mixed emotions from people. Like Forest, there are those who feel we are at the whim of the never ending wind, while others believe we carve out our own paths & respective destinies through the ever changing dynamics of life. I tend to undoubtedly believe the latter; life IS about decisions & every day those decisions cultivate our daily realities; and, the fact that those decisions may revolve around fear, risk & acceptance make them even that more difficult fulfill. Those who are, not only brave enough to face those uncertainties, but ALSO put in the time (& work) behind those commitments,....just might make ALL their hopes come to fruition. SO, when I think of this narrative in the context our Texas metal scene, no other band better exemplifies it than Dallas/Ft. Worth's, Lockjaw! LJ who've already had a LONG lifespan are now FINALLY reaping the rewards of their focus, once new vocalist, Joe Ortiz (former Jackknife), guitarist, Justin McCurley & bassist, Gabe Ayala helped revamp the band. 2023 saw LJ release BOTH a NEW record in the 9-track, full length debut, 'Relentless', but also adopt a new take on Texas metal - straying away from the traditional attitudes of metalcore & adopting an aggressive, melodic & hard-hitting take of what has become the foundation for an explosion of momentum, which has seen the band gain hordes of new fans & acclaim. I AM a HUGE fan of it too, SO, when the band hit San Antonio on August 26th 2023 (at the Paper Tiger) I knew I had to be there to support & work with the band. In the interview below you will see us discuss the following: the evolution of the band, the acclaim (& vibe) of 'Relentless', the deep lyrical themes, their high tech recording process, upcoming shows, video work & much MORE! To the band - 'thank you' so much for your words & friendship. I'll see you in Dallas in 2024 for the next Fest! To the RMW Familia - be sure to jam 'Relentless' & support what's BEST in Texas metal. ~ El Mero Metal
