Neurosis

Neurosis is a US sludge metal band from Oakland, California, formed in 1985. The group begins as a hardcore act, drawing on British crust punk, and develops into a band associated with atmospheric sludge metal, post-metal and experimental heavy music. Its sound also incorporates elements of progressive metal, hardcore punk, tribal music, ambient and industrial music.

History

The band is founded in late 1985 by Scott Kelly, Dave Edwardson and Jason Roeder, who have previously played in Violent Coercion. Over time, Neurosis moves away from its early hardcore approach and becomes known for a heavier style that combines metal with acoustic and minimal ambient textures. It is often described as a pioneer of post-metal and as an influence on the doom metal scene.

Neurosis releases twelve full-length studio albums, along with live albums, split records and EPs. The group also establishes its own independent label, Neurot Recordings, which releases material by Neurosis and related projects and later becomes home to other experimental artists.

Visuals and live work

Visual presentation forms an important part of the band’s performances. From 1990 to 1993, Adam G. Kendall creates and performs live visuals with the group. After he stops touring, Pete Inc. takes over the role, while Kendall continues to contribute visuals until 1997. Kendall also films the footage for the video for “Locust Star”. Josh Graham takes over live visuals in early 2000 and remains with the band until late 2012. He also designs the artwork for The Eye of Every Storm and Given to the Rising. Neurosis’ visual work is often experimental and psychedelic, and some touring imagery from the Through Silver in Blood period appears in Ken Russell’s film Altered States. Other images appear in the enhanced section of the Sovereign mini-album and on the DVD release of A Sun That Never Sets. The DVD is largely directed by Josh Graham, with an additional video by Chad Rullman.

Members

Current members include Steve von Till, Aaron Turner, Dave Edwardson, Noah Landis and Jason Roeder. Former members listed include Chad Salter, Scott Kelly and Simon McIlroy. Aaron Turner is also known for work with Old Man Gloom and Sumac.

Later years

The band pauses activity from 2019 to 2026. During that period, Scott Kelly leaves the group in 2022 after admitting domestic abuse. Neurosis later returns with the album An Undying Love for a Burning World and announces Aaron Turner as vocalist.