Conceived by vocalist Mike Dafferner in early 1995, NECK has since embodied both the vicious savagery and frail mortality of the human animal. NECK’s music evokes images of profound beauty and savage brutality. Delicate vocal harmonies contrast bludgeoning guitar riffs, while abstract rhythm changes are presented with masterful arrangement.

The range of influences displayed on the band’s self titled debut span across from shoegazer rock,l death metal and classical. “We don’t just listen to heavy music,” explains Jonathan. “We’re four different people, with varied musical tastes, whose common fascination is with ugliness and beauty.” Those contrasting aesthetics provide a dramatic tension that runs throughout the whole album.

Sparse and haunting melodies hint at the range that inevitably ensues, as schizophrenic arrangements blindside the listener time after time. From the schizophrenic vocal line of “Snowball” to the the melodic horror of “Alcohol,” unpredictable changes in tone and tempo are the foundation of NECK’s sound. “We just want to write the craziest shit possible,” remarks Greg,“and if people are into it, that’s fine, if not, that’s fine, too.” But make no mistake, at an average age of 23, the gifted members of NECK are poised for major success and right on top of the original sound that will get them there.

While songwriting is admittedly the main focus of the band, NECK has made a name for itself along the East Coast by playing predominately hardcore bills. “They’re not the kinds of shows we necessarily want to be playing on,” explains Greg, “but it just so happens that it’s a viable ‘scene’ that just kind of consumed us. We like the metal bills and feel that’s where we may be the most accessible. But who knows for sure? I think there’s something in NECK for every music listener.”