Wolves In The Throne Room’s drummer, Aaron Weaver, delves into the transformative power of music by sharing the 10 songs that have profoundly impacted his life and shaped his musical journey. As a pivotal figure in the post-black metal scene, Weaver’s eclectic taste and genre-blurring tendencies have been instrumental in defining the unique sound of Wolves In The Throne Room.
Weaver’s musical odyssey traces back to the late ’90s in Olympia, where he was immersed in a vibrant underground music scene. One such influential track was Behead The Prophet No Lord Shall Live’s “Soul System Black Out,” characterized by its occultist themes and wild performances that left an indelible mark on Weaver’s musical sensibilities.
Reflecting on his childhood memories, Weaver recalls the haunting melody of The Ronnettes’ “Be My Baby,” which captivated him during a summer spent living on a sailboat. The dark undertones and enigmatic production of the track by Phil Spector resonated deeply with Weaver, foreshadowing his affinity for music with depth and complexity.
Mount Eerie’s “Wind’s Dark Poem” emerges as a sonic conduit to the mystical landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, evoking a sense of connection to the raw, natural beauty that influences Weaver’s creative process. The ethereal sounds of Mount Eerie serve as a testament to the profound impact of music on one’s perception of the environment.
Weaver’s musical evolution extends to the realms of black metal with Weakling’s “Dead As Dreams,” a track that laid the groundwork for Wolves In The Throne Room’s sonic experimentation. The dense, idiosyncratic nature of Weakling’s music left an indelible impression on Weaver, highlighting the innovative spirit of the US extreme music underground.
Delving into the realm of hip-hop, Weaver finds inspiration in GZA’s “Gold” from the iconic album “Liquid Swords.” The track’s menacing atmosphere and intricate sampling techniques resonate with Weaver’s approach to music production, reflecting a fusion of arcane influences and mystical energies.
As a teenager, Weaver found solace in Morbid Angel’s “Rebel Lands,” immersing himself in the brutal intensity and technical prowess of the band’s music. The impact of Morbid Angel’s sound on Weaver’s drumming style is evident, underscoring the enduring influence of extreme metal on his musical development.
Ulver’s “Hymne I: Wolf And Fear” emerges as a sonic embodiment of raw, atmospheric black metal, transporting Weaver to a realm of northern mysticism and ancient spirits. The evocative sounds of Ulver resonate deeply with Weaver’s exploration of Cascadian wilderness and the mystical energies that permeate his creative process.
Windir’s “Arntor, Ein Windi” serves as a soundtrack to Weaver’s formative years spent in a rundown cedar hall, where the rustic ambiance of the music intertwined with the rugged surroundings. The communal spirit of music-making in this setting laid the foundation for Wolves In The Throne Room’s collaborative ethos and immersive live performances.
Emperor’s “Into The Infinity Of Thoughts” marked Weaver’s initiation into the world of black metal, igniting a passion for the genre’s mystique and otherworldly allure. The enigmatic allure of Emperor’s music resonated with Weaver’s quest for sonic exploration and unearthly experiences.
Finally, Metallica’s “Enter Sandman” emerges as a gateway to the world of metal for a young Weaver, sparking a fascination with the band’s epic song structures and emotive storytelling. Lars Ulrich’s groove-driven drumming style and Metallica’s innovative approach to songwriting left an indelible mark on Weaver’s musical evolution.
Through these 10 songs, Aaron Weaver offers a glimpse into the diverse influences and transformative experiences that have shaped his musical identity and contributed to the enigmatic allure of Wolves In The Throne Room’s sound.
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