About Akercocke

Infusing death metal with some electronic touches, Akercocke was formed in early 1997 by guitarist Jason Mendonca and drummer David Gray, friends since their teens and bandmates in the band Salem Orchid. When that act split in 1992, the pair went their separate ways, reuniting in late 1996 and soon added longtime acquaintances Paul Scanlan and Peter Theobalds to the fold on guitar and bass, respectively. Influenced by Voivod and Killing Joke, the band gained a live following, creating a distinctive visual image for the band by dressing in suits. Rape of the Bastard Nazarene was issued by the group through their own label, Goat of Mendes, in early 1999 to solid reviews. Attracting the attention of underground label Peaceville, they were signed and Akercocke's debut release for the label, The Goat of Mendes, was issued in mid-2001. 2003 saw the release of Choronzon, on Earache Records. Guitarist Paul Scanlan then parted company with Akercocke. According to the recently written biography of the band by Gray, Scanlan was officially fired from the band for not being dedicated, and contributing the wrong atmosphere to the band in general. His replacement is Matt Wilcock, formerly of Australian metal band The Berzerker. "Words That Go Unspoken, Deeds That Go Undone" was released in Britain and Europe in October 2005, and in the United States in February 2006, on Earache Records to great critical acclaim. To promote the album, Akercocke went on tour with Mortician and Blood Red Throne through Europe. Prior to this, they had played four shows in Britain to promote the new album, supported by fellow British death metallers Ted Maul. On 18th of January, 2007, Theobalds left the band, citing personal differences. He was replaced by Peter Benjamin of the band Corpsing. Akercocke released their fifth album, "Antichrist", on the 28th May 2007. This will be their last album on the Earache label, as they were only contracted to them for three albums. A video has been released for the song "Axiom".