Though the nu-metal era has been targeted and labelled by some as the worst era in musical history, some bands were clearly separated from the pack. Though categorised with the bulk of other Nu-Metal acts, Staind (though really more a post-grunge outfit) was, and is, simply a solid rock ‘n’ roll band. The band has, however, today announced they will be officially taking a breather.
The news came in an interview with frontman Aaron Lewis, who spoke to Billboard about the band’s decision. While no specific period of time was given, Lewis remains adamant that “We’re not gonna stop making music.”
Over a period of 14 years, Staind has steadily released 7 studio albums, the most recent of which dropped in September last year. The self-titled release sold over 47,000 copies in the States alone, launching it to #5 in Billions Top 200 Chart. The band has been touring hard off the album, and were even in town for last year’s Soundwave.
Speaking of the hiatus, Lewis stated, “We’ve got this next tour and we might do something next year and then we’re going to take a little break for a second. We’re not breaking up. We’re not gonna stop making music. We’re just going to take a little hiatus that really hasn’t ever been taken in our career. We put out seven records in 14 years. We’ve been pretty busy.”
The frontman, whose solo album will be dropping September of this year, also commented on their thoughts about future releases: “I think it would take a ridiculous, ridiculous check for me to be willing to sign a label deal again, but there’s many other ways to do it. Everything is changing so much; every time you close your eyes and then open them again, the business has changed a little bit. So we’ll see when we get there what we’re gonna do.”
So, hopefully for all the Staind fans, the band holds true to their word! I mean, I can think of at least a couple of bands who have pushed through 14 years without a hiatus, but hey, I’m just some dude.
