Former TYPE O NEGATIVE drummer Sal Abruscato has revealed that he is working on new material
Sal Abruscato, once the drummer for TYPE O NEGATIVE and now the frontman of A PALE HORSE NAMED DEATH, appears to have moved beyond previous grievances with his former bandmates and is channeling his energy into a fresh endeavor.
In a recent online declaration related to his latest project KING OF THE LOCUSTS, Abruscato suggested forthcoming developments within the group.
Within his social media update, Abruscato alluded to the prospect of crafting new music and expressed in the post that the moment has arrived to “flip the page and put the past to rest.”
Sal said: “This could be in the works in the near future, any new music created will be for this entity. Time to turn the page and lay to rest the past, it won’t be about who likes it or not, it’s about living and enjoying the moment of creation with good people and friends.”
This news comes after Absruscato slammed the recent “Bloody Kisses” anniversary graphic novel in November of last year.
In a passionate and unrestrained outburst, Abruscato unleashed a torrent of accusations and frustrations aimed at his ex-bandmates, the music industry, and specific individuals whom he believed had treated him unfairly.
The vehement tirade, broadcasted through an extensive live-streamed video on social media, offers an unfiltered glimpse into Abruscato‘s current mindset and his grievances with the music industry.
Renowned for his influential drumming during TYPE O NEGATIVE‘s early years, Abruscato begins by expressing his frustration at being excluded from a new graphic novel project put together by Z2 and a plethora of notable musicians, commemorating the 30th anniversary of the band’s third album, “Bloody Kisses“.
According to Abruscato, the TYPE O NEGATIVE commemorative project is merely a “cash grab,” lacking the authenticity and respect he believes the band’s legacy deserves. His disappointment was heightened by the omission of his contributions from the press narrative surrounding the release, suggesting a deliberate erasure of his role.
A central figure in Abruscato‘s accusations was Alan Robert, the bassist of LIFE OF AGONY, who played a role in creating art for the TYPE O NEGATIVE “Bloody Kisses” graphic novel. Abruscato alleges that Robert had been clandestinely working to undermine his career, exerting influence over media outlets and industry figures to neglect or sideline his music projects. This claim also added a conspiratorial layer to the already intricate web of relationships and histories.
Abruscato does not mince words in critiquing the artistic direction of the anniversary project, particularly the artwork. He argues that this direction significantly deviates from the vision of the late Peter Steele, TYPE O NEGATIVE’s lead singer and bassist. According to Abruscato, the new artwork and graphic novel, crafted by LIFE OF AGONY‘s Alan Robert, fails to capture the essence of what the band and its music stood for.
“Peter is rolling in his grave,” Abruscato asserted.
Beyond the TYPE O NEGATIVE dynamics, Abruscato delved into deeply personal subjects, such as his daughter’s disability and how it has influenced his life and career choices. He expressed a profound sense of betrayal and disillusionment with the industry, citing a lack of integrity and respect among his peers.
The video concluded with the ex-TYPE O NEGATIVE drummer hinting at potential legal action against his former bandmates and others in the industry. While he clarifies that his intention is not financial gain, Abruscato expressed a desire to seek justice and acknowledgment for his contributions.
Sal Abruscato played a pivotal role in shaping TYPE O NEGATIVE‘s early sound. His rhythmic prowess and unique style became an integral part of the band’s distinctive blend of doom metal and gothic rock.
Abruscato joined TYPE O NEGATIVE in its formative years, contributing to the band’s debut album, “Slow, Deep and Hard” (1991). His drumming laid the foundation for the band’s dark and atmospheric sound, setting the stage for their future success. As the group gained recognition, Abruscato continued to be an essential force behind the drum kit, leaving an indelible mark on the band’s early discography, which also included the follow-up “The Origin Of The Feces” (1992).
However, after the release of the critically acclaimed album “Bloody Kisses” (1993), Sal parted ways with the band. His departure marked a significant transition for both the drummer and the band. Despite his exit, Abruscato‘s impact on TYPE O NEGATIVE’s sound lingered, as his drumming style became an integral part of the band’s identity.
After his departure from TYPE O NEGATIVE, Abruscato joined LIFE OF AGONY in the mid-1990s, contributing his drumming skills to the band’s lineup. The band, originating from Brooklyn, New York, was known for blending alternative metal, hardcore, and grunge influences, creating a unique and intense sound.
Sal’s drumming added a powerful foundation to the band’s compositions, complementing the emotive vocals of Mina Caputo (formerly known as Keith Caputo) and the overall intensity of the group’s sound.
One of the notable albums released during Sal Abruscato‘s time with LIFE OF AGONY was “Ugly” (1995). The album showcased the band’s evolution, incorporating a range of influences while maintaining their heavy and emotionally charged approach. Abruscato‘s drumming contributed to the album’s raw energy and played a vital role in defining the band’s sonic identity during that period.
The band experienced both critical acclaim and commercial success during the mid-to-late 1990s, and Abruscato‘s involvement contributed to the band’s continued growth and recognition. However, Abruscato‘s time with LIFE OF AGONY was relatively short-lived, and he eventually parted ways with the band.
In the years following his time with LIFE OF AGONY, Sal embarked on a new musical journey. He emerged as the frontman for A PALE HORSE NAMED DEATH, a band he founded in 2010. The group’s music maintained a dark and brooding atmosphere, reminiscent of Abruscato‘s earlier work. A PALE HORSE NAMED DEATH released albums such as “And Hell Will Follow Me” (2011) and “When the World Becomes Undone” (2019), showcasing Abruscato‘s versatility as both a vocalist and a musician.
In his current role, Abruscato has demonstrated a commitment to evolving his musical expression while preserving the haunting elements that characterized his time with his former bands. Abruscato‘s journey from the original drummer of TYPE O NEGATIVE to this new KING OF THE LOCUSTS project reflects a musician’s enduring passion and creative exploration within the realms of dark and atmospheric music.
