Kumeyaay thrash metal band

In Silence is anything but silent

By Debra Utacia KrolA hard-working Native thrash metal band from San Diego is about to make its mark on the music world.

In Silence, which recently signed with independent label Down Pour Records, is set to release its first full-length album, and one of the Native band’s songs is sure to be a hit in Indian country.

The hard-edged rhythms of metal music run in Toby Hatmaker’s blood. “Metal’s always been a passion of mine,” said Hatmaker, Campo Kumeyaay Nation, front man and guitarist for the band, who notes Metallica and Slayer as inspirations. “Lots of kids played instruments.”The hit song?In fact, that passion for both music and exposing injustices is combined in the band’s newest single, “Up Rising,” which tells the tale of how the California Mission culture ravaged tribal communities. Hatmaker said his songs begin with riffs that come from the heart, as well as the gourd rattle used by Kumeyaay men in song.

“We’d never done anything related to our culture before,” said Hatmaker, who when not on the road delves into Kumeyaay culture and language, including bird singing. “We tried to keep the song as a story throughout.”

Next came polishing the performance. “We’ve had a big challenge with the song. We’re working to see how much better we can make it.” However, the response from audiences across Southern California indicates that In Silence has struck a chord with “Up Rising.” The spring release of their album, as yet unnamed, will also help establish the band as a new addition to the roster of Native metal bands such as Blackfire and The Cremains.Comment:  For more on the subject, see Metal-Punk Concert at Navajo Fair and Medicine Man Saved Thrash Band.

Below:  "In Silence recently signed with independent label Down Pour Records. The Native thrash metal band from San Diego is set to release its first full-length album this spring."