Doomed Confessionary: Sara, Maurice, Aaron, Matt & Derrick (Shadows Prevail)
Shadows Prevail is an alternative/doom/prog metal band hailing from Charlotte, North Carolina.
Featuring former members of EvilLeaf, Beaten To Death, Hacksaw Surgery and Southern Betty, Shadows Prevail consists of Sara Jackson (vocals, keyboards), Maurice Francis (lead guitar), Aaron Bethard (rhythm guitar), Matt White (bass) and Derrick Moore (drums).
Shadows Prevail has released their debut EP »Initium Novum« on November 29th, 2024. Available now on all major streaming platforms!
Can you say a few words about your band?
We are an alternative metal band based in Charlotte, NC. We incorporate elements of doom, prog, and metalcore.
What was the biggest challenge for the band?
Several of us started out as members of a stoner-metal band. It took awhile for us to find our sound as Shadows Prevail. All of us are influenced by (and have experience playing) different styles of music, and it has been awesome working with what each of us brings to the table.
What can you be most proud of so far?
The release of our first EP, »Initium Novum«.
What was your biggest regret?
Not starting sooner. All of us wanted to be in a metal band for years but had various things holding us back. If you really want to do something, don’t let age or life circumstances stand in your way!
What was the best concert/tour so far and why?
We got to play for Luurch’s album release party in Raleigh at the Chapel of Bones. That is such a cool venue, and we enjoyed supporting them. We also really enjoy every time we play with Venus Invictus. They have a great sound and are fun to watch live!
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
The number of metal bands in our area! There are so many in different subgenres.
What is currently in your heavy musical rotation?
Mass Of Amara, Clouds Taste Satanic, Shrinebuilder, Red Eye, Zeal & Ardor, Dark Funeral… and in a different vein, Bridge City Sinners.
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given as a musician?
Don’t worry about messing up playing live. Everyone does. No one will notice it unless you make it noticeable!
What are your guilty pleasures?
I think all of us are open about liking different styles of music – no guilt involved!
Can you say something more about current music scene in Charlotte / North Carolina?
The scene around here is relatively small but so supportive. You’ll see familiar faces at most of the shows in the metal scene.
Where can we see you live this year (concerts/tours)?
We’re playing the Bleeding Hearts Ball coming up at The Rooster (Gastonia NC) in April.
What are your plans for the future as a band?
Our next step is releasing a full-length album! We hope to tour outside of our region as well.
How can people best support your band?
Check us out on Facebook and Instagram! And stream our EP on Spotify & Apple Music.
Do you have any message for your listeners?
We couldn’t think of what to say here….but Derrick (our drummer) says: “Great things lie beyond fear!”
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well