http://www.knoxville.com/news/2008/dec/10/metal-group-facelock-locks-new-lineup/

Since 2005, local metal band Facelock has performed in and around Knoxville with an ever-evolving lineup of players. With dwindling venue support for area metal bands, Facelock has temporarily resorted to renting out gyms and performance halls in which to hold all-ages shows in promotion of its upcoming full-length debut release.

In its three year run, Facelock has seen numerous members come and go, with only vocalist Syn remaining from the band's original lineup. However, the group is confident in its newest incarnation that has learned the band's original material and collaborated on new work at a wowing pace.

"The music has definitely evolved into a living element with the breath of diversity given to it by the new lineup and the new influences they bring to the lab," says bassist Alex Carver. "You'll definitely notice more depth to the music than ever before."

"We already have begun material for the next CD," adds Syn. "The current lineup's material is coming faster than we know what to do with."

The band's as-yet untitled debut release is in the final stages of production and is expected out by early next year. The album's tracks will primarily consist of Facelock's early original material as performed by its current lineup. Accompanying the album release will be a Facelock DVD chronicling the group's formative years and performances.

"The title has changed so many times, but it should be ready by early 2009," says guitarist Andrew Hooker of the upcoming CD release. "It's a culmination of all previous material reworked and revamped with the new lineup and sound. We recorded it with Alien Sound and the Tennessee Production Center using time won, having earned second place in their battle of the bands. It will be available at shows and our Web site as well as various online outlets, including CDBaby, iTunes, etc."

"I personally like the way the songs have matured, and the production we put into it should really take you on a ride rather than 'Hey here's our jams; enjoy!'" says Syn. "I think the material grabs you and takes you on its own journey."

While the band's debut release is a milestone in Facelock's history, the group's foremost draw has always been its live presentation. Heavy on theatrics, the stage show has been a recent beneficiary of Facelock's personal lighting setup, which accents the show's gory novelties.

"The show is kind of what Facelock has become known for," says guitarist Anthony Bull. "We still have books that burst into flames and chalices that refill somehow with blood, but with the new lighting setup, the show has really grown into a production. We take control of all aspects, rather than just plugging up some amps and going for it."

Like many local metal-centric artists, Facelock has suffered following the latest demise of The Knox Scene Coalition, who under the guidance of Doreen Williamson provided all-ages shows for young local talent. Fortunately, The KSC is purportedly in the midst of yet another comeback just in time to assist in the promotion of Facelock's first recordings.

"The main obstacle right now with any metal band in Knoxville is finding a place to play," Hooker notes. "The clubs have died it seems, so we have had to resort to renting out halls ourselves and trying to make ends meet that way. Hopefully that will change in the future and the scene in Knoxville can be reborn. With hope, people like Doreen and The KSC will change that once again, and there will be more outlets for our type of bands."