THE BEAST

I Am Morbid’s Pete Sandoval Believes Metal is Dead in America

Pete Sandoval, the renowned drummer of I Am Morbid and former member of iconic death metal band Morbid Angel, has recently shared his candid thoughts on the state of metal in the United States, stating that he believes metal is dead in America. His remarks were made during a new interview with Francisco Zamudio for KNAC.COM, where Sandoval reflected on the evolution of metal music and its current status both in the U.S. and abroad.

In the interview, Sandoval emphasized how the metal scene in America has evolved over the decades, particularly from the 1980s through the early 2000s, a period in which some of the most influential death metal bands originated, including Death, Morbid Angel, Deicide, Obituary, and Cannibal Corpse. "We were some of the first bands that were doing this, along with these other European bands like Kreator, Destruction, Sodom, Bathory... all these bands helped bring these tons and tons of bands that we have nowadays. And a lot of bands have made it," Sandoval said, acknowledging the groundbreaking work done by both American and European bands in laying the foundation for the global metal scene.

However, Sandoval’s tone shifted when discussing the current state of metal in America. He pointed out that, despite the genre's early success and its deep roots in U.S. history, metal in America is no longer thriving as it once did. "Metal is much bigger in Europe," he stated. "That's why we play more times in Europe because over there it’s more appreciated... [bands that play] this kind of music." Sandoval’s comments reflect a broader trend that many musicians have observed — Europe continues to have a much more robust and active metal scene, with festivals, tours, and a dedicated fanbase that keeps the genre alive.

In fact, Sandoval echoed the sentiments of fellow musician K.K. Downing of Judas Priest, who in an October interview with American Songwriter, also pointed out the stark contrast between the European and American metal scenes. "In Europe, people do save up and spend money on festivals to go and see 60 or 80 bands over a weekend," Downing remarked. "In Europe, we have literally hundreds of festivals now. There's so many it’s amazing, but I don’t see that in the States." According to Downing, American metal fans tend to prioritize big, once-in-a-lifetime shows with bands like AC/DC or Metallica, rather than frequenting local venues or supporting smaller, emerging acts.

Despite these challenges, Sandoval remained optimistic about the future of I Am Morbid and their continued efforts to connect with fans both in the U.S. and overseas. "We are proving that we are a good band here in the States as well," he added, emphasizing that the band continues to grow its presence domestically. I Am Morbid kicked off their Devastation on the Nation U.S. Tour in Tampa on November 15, 2024, and their next stop will be in Worcester, Massachusetts, on December 10.

While metal in America may not be what it once was, both Sandoval and his band are working hard to keep the flame alive, proving that metal’s roots — both in the U.S. and Europe — will continue to influence new generations of fans and musicians. Whether or not American metal can reclaim its former glory remains to be seen, but for bands like I Am Morbid, it’s clear they aren’t ready to give up on their home country just yet.

As the band continues to tour, their message is clear: Metal, though challenged in the U.S., is far from dead. The passion and dedication that have fueled the genre’s global rise remain very much alive.

For more information on I Am Morbid’s upcoming tour dates, visit their official website or follow them on social media.