Idiom

Idiom is a funk metal band from Exeter, United Kingdom, formed in Devon in 2005. The group is a four-piece and draws on a broad range of heavy and alternative influences, including Incubus, Rage Against the Machine, SikTh, System of a Down and Deftones.

Releases and recording

The band self-releases material through its own Dirt Track label. It issues two EPs, Side Show in 2006 and Twelve Bar Blues in 2007, both recorded at Not In Pill Studios in Newport, Wales and produced by former Dub War members Jeff and Ginge.

Live activity

Idioms’ early releases lead to live shows on local stages, then to a full UK and European tour with Hed(pe). The band also appears at the Bulldog Bash and Bloodstock festivals in 2007. In early 2008 it tours Europe with From Autumn To Ashes and plays dates with Bring Me The Horizon and Architects. Later that year, Benji Webbe of Skindred invites the band on a two-month UK run of 35 shows, during which vocalist Matt joins the headliners on stage for performances of “Nobody”.

Recognition and airplay

In February 2009, Metal Hammer includes “Twelve Bar Blues” on its cover CD alongside Lamb of God, Dimmu Borgir and Deathstars. The band also receives regular play on the XFM Rock Show.

Style and position

Idioms’ material is associated with the 2009 rock-rap revival and sits within hardcore, metalcore, alternative metal and funk metal territory, with a hard-hitting, energetic approach shaped by both heavy riffing and rap-rock crossover influences.