Origin: Granby, Quebec, Canada
Genres: Deathcore, metalcore
Years active: 2005–2012, 2014–present
Notable albums: Silences Are Words, Nightmare on Providence Street
Record labels: Torque, Mediaskare
Current members: Jonathan Cabana, Maxime Lacroix, Olivier Roy, Frank the Tank, Pat Woods
Blind Witness is the Canadian deathcore band that’s been shaking up the metal scene since their formation in 2005. If you haven’t heard of them, you’re in for a treat. These guys hail from Granby, Quebec, and they’ve been delivering a blend of brutal and melodic metalcore that’s both intense and strangely catchy.
Blind Witness Band History
Blind Witness was born in 2005 and founded by vocalist Jonathan Cabana. Guitarists Pier-Luc Desroches and Maxime Lacroix were alongside him, bassist Miguel Lepage, and drummer Kevin Desroches. Right from the get-go, they started making waves in the Montreal metal scene. By 2007, they had signed with Victory/Torque Records.
Their debut full-length album, Silences Are Words, dropped in 2008. This album set the stage for their unique sound, blending the heaviness of deathcore with the melodic elements of early metalcore bands like As I Lay Dying and Atreyu. It was a solid start, but the best was yet to come.
After signing with Mediaskare Records in 2010, they released Nightmare on Providence Street, a big deal in the deathcore world. It took their sound to a whole new level, combining bone-crushing heaviness with melodic hooks that stayed with you long after the music stopped.
Like many bands, Blind Witness went through some rough patches. In 2011, they faced significant lineup changes, and by 2012, they announced their breakup. Their final show was at the Heavy Montréal 2012 festival, and fans thought it was the end of an era.
But in true rock fashion, they made a comeback in 2014. In 2015, they released a five-song EP, I Am Hell, which was well-received. Fast-forward to 2020, and they were still going strong with their single “Force Fed,” showing the world that Blind Witness wasn’t done yet.
Musical Style and Influence
So, what makes Blind Witness stand out in a sea of metal bands? It’s their unique blend of deathcore and melodic metalcore. Some folks even refer to their style as “atthegatescore” or melodic deathcore. Here’s what sets their music apart:
- Aggressive Deathcore Elements: Expect blast beats, breakdowns, and all the heavy goodness that makes Deathcore fans headbang.
- Melodic Guitar Work: Their guitar riffs, which blend melody with intensity, resemble those of bands like At The Gates.
- Vocal Variety: Jonathan Cabana delivers harsh vocals with occasional clean singing, adding depth to their sound.
- Emotionally Charged Lyrics: Their songs aren’t just noise; they pack an emotional punch.
Blind Witness balances brutality and melody, which has earned them a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. Thanks to this unique mix, Nightmare on Providence Street is often hailed as a genre-defining album.
Notable Releases
If you’re new to Blind Witness, here are some essential releases to check out:
- Silences Are Words (2008) – Their debut album laid the groundwork for their sound.
- Nightmare on Providence Street (2010) – Widely considered their best work and a must-listen for any deathcore fan.
- I Am Hell EP (2015) – Their comeback release showed they hadn’t lost their edge.
- Force Fed (Single, 2020) – Their latest release proves they’re still evolving.
Blind Witness T-Shirt
Rock the ultimate Blind Witness fan gear with this striking t-shirt! Featuring a vivid, eerie design, it captures the essence of the band’s intense deathcore vibe. Perfect for concerts or everyday wear.
Band Members
Here’s a look at the current lineup (as of 2020):
- Jonathan Cabana – Lead vocals (2005-2012, 2014-present)
- Maxime Lacroix – Lead guitar, backing vocals (2005-2011, 2014-present)
- Olivier Roy – Rhythm guitar (2011-2012, 2014-present)
- Francis “Frank the Tank” Beaupre – Bass (2011-2012, 2014-present)
- Pat Woods – Drums (2020-present)
They’ve had their share of lineup changes over the years, but this core group has been holding it down since their reunion.
Popular Blindwitness Songs
All Alone (2010)
Baby One More Notch (2010)
Force Fed (2020)
Legacy and Impact
Blind Witness has left an undeniable mark on the deathcore scene. Their ability to blend melodic elements with intense deathcore has set them apart from the crowd. Nightmare on Providence Street is a standout album that continues to influence new bands in the genre.
One of their most popular songs, “All Alone,” became a viral meme thanks to its epic breakdown. Tracks like “Baby One More Notch” and “The New Year” are fan favourites, showcasing their knack for crafting memorable, infectious riffs.
Despite the ups and downs, Blind Witness has maintained a loyal fanbase. Their reunion and continued output of new material show they’re here to stay. If you’re a metalhead looking for something that’s both brutal and melodic, give Blind Witness a listen. You won’t be disappointed.
