Coven remain as one of the earlier and more notorious shock-comedy thrash bands. Formed in Seattle, WA. in the mid 1980’s, the original line-up consisted of Dean Babbitt and Paul Hash on guitars, Neal Babbitt on drums, Gary Peebles on bass and Jay Clark on vocals. They recorded and produced their debut album Blessed is the Black in 1986 and it was eventually released on Ever Rat Records in 1988. Musically the band offered straight ahead thrash with some of the most vile and offensive lyrics imaginable. Songs like 'Iron Dick', '6669' and 'McDonaldland Massacre' quickly became underground classics. No target was spared the bands caustic brand of humor but a particular favorite seemed to be organized religion, specifically Christianity.
Now after a long hiatus the band is back and known as Coven[metal]. Due to a legal dispute over the name, they decided to add the moniker [metal] to distinguish them from the 60’s band of the same name. But make no mistake, they are back and pissed and sicker than ever!
They played their first show live after 20 years at Studio Seven in Seattle, WA, on May 30th, opening for German legends DESTRUCTION and the crowd response was amazing.
Dean Babbitt, founding member and lead guitarist had this to say about the show: “It was crazy man! We actually didn’t know what to expect and we get on stage and they (the fans) were chanting “Coven”, it kinda blew us away and made us way more excited to some more shows that’s for sure!”
Live excerpt footage of the May 30th show can be found below:
Coven’s new lineup consists of:
Dean Babbitt – Guitars
Neal Babbitt – Drums
Jamie Carter - Vocals
Eric Close – Bass
The Underbishop – Guitars
They will be playing a series of shows in the next few weeks including:
June
23 - The 2 Bit Sallon - Seattle, WA
July
6 - The Pleas For Peace Center - Stockton, CA
7 - The Oakland Metro Operahouse - Oakland, CA
More information about upcoming shows can be found at this location.
