#10 – Unto Thee – RichardThinks Band Of The Week

RTBOTW is back in full swing for 2014! We have a lot of new bands that we’re excited to present to you all. To kick things off, we have Winchester, VA’s Unto Thee who have just successfully completed a kick-starter for their new album. We sat down with vocalist, Tommy Lewis, to discuss their kick-starter and more!

For more information on Unto Thee, be sure to check them out on the band’s Facebook and Twitter!

First, can you please introduce yourself & tell us your role in the band.

My name is Tommy Lewis and I am the vocalist for the band.

With so many bands emerging in today’s scene, how do you believe Unto Thee stands out?

We strive for a unique sound. We aren’t out to play what’s popular or to conform to today’s “metal scene”.  Also, we have, in my opinion, a pretty awesome live show.

Can you give us a brief history on Unto Thee?

The band was formed by drummer, Kenny Shillingburg, and lead guitarist, Canaan Rhodes, in early 2010. The band has gone through various line-up changes throughout 2011-2012. They played their first show in 2012. We recorded an EP in late 2012, released in April 2013. Following the release of the EP, two more members changed in 2013 and we performed at the first VA Chili Cook Off and started recording our first full length.

How did you pick the name for the band?

The two founding members were brain storming during Math class and it just kind of came to them. They both agreed and Unto Thee was born.

If you could pick three words to describe your band, what words would you pick?

Unique. Dedicated. Beards.

What has been the biggest accomplishment for the band to date?

Having the opportunity to play the VA Chili Cook Off with bands like Sevendust, Saliva, Trapt, Non-Point, Soil, Dope & Smile Empty Soul.

The band recently recruited Kevin Spangler, how did that come about and what do you think he will bring to the table?

Once our vocalist left, I moved to the front man position and the hunt for my replacement was on. We had put out word on all of our social media sites (FB, Twitter, Instagram, Etc.) and next thing you know he messaged us. After his first day at practice he picked up our material really quickly and had a positive outlook on everything we were looking to accomplish. I believe his influences and playing style will be crucial for Unto Thee’s music in the future, as far as writing goes as well as over-all sound. I am definitely looking forward to it.

Let’s talk about the successful Kickstarter that just finished back in November. How was that experience like getting fans to donate for a new album?

During the process of recording all of the testimonies it was very surprising to hear what our fans had to say about us and our music when they were put on the spot. Coming up with all of the pledge rewards was an entertaining experience. During the actual duration of the project it got to be nerve racking at times. There were times when I had my doubts about reaching our goal. But our fans came through for us in the end and we ended up raising more than our required goal.

The $100 backer option sounds like it will be a blast! Have there been any plans for that backer to receive the show?

Yes, we have been in contact with them. We are currently just waiting to finalize details for when and where.

What can fans expect from this upcoming release?

Blood, sweat and tears. We have poured everything we have in to writing these songs and finding the right team to record, mix, master, and produce this album. We have strived for extremely professional quality. As far as the music goes, expect heavy, in your face metal!

Anything else you would like people to know?

We are working on some pretty big show s for this summer. Going to be playing with a few national acts that I know I personally am excited for.