Band Members
How many Russian metal bands do you know? I’m sure you can Google some, but really… Sweden, Finland, Canada, even France, but not that big cold mother Russia. Hell I Feel is the first thrash metal band that was born in Soviet Union.
The music industry in Russia is completely dominated by pop music and hip-hop. To avoid the typical death of a metal band, HIF had to leave the country. Santa Cruz is now a new home for this progressively rising group.
“We are here because music is in our hearts and we cannot let the Russian music industry take it away from us,” says Vlad, lead singer and guitarist.
Touring in the U.S., mostly on the east coast, Hell I Feel has already earned recognition and success. Talent and dedication fueled by a different mentality crossbred a unique sound that has already inspired many die hard fans to get band tattoos. More t-shirts and bumper stickers appear after every show and the more wows they get on myspace comments.
“Every time we practice, random people stop by to say hello and watch us play for a while,” says Mike Rude, the drummer.
“It feels good when people who can’t name more than three metal bands say they like our music,” interrupts Steve Hawkins, the only American in the band.
Right now HIF has released a new EP, “Between Death and Dying”, and is booking shows at local venues. It is very hard to jump-start the band in a new area but they are optimistic about California’s music audience and have faith in their craft.