HEAVY MUSIC HISTORY: Blackout – HED PE
Californian genre-splicers HED PE have presented themselves in various forms and guises over the years. From their self proclaimed “G-Punk” stylings to the early day metal infused rap assaults they’ve accumulated a massive 14 studio outings to date.
Their peak commercial success circulated around their earlier releases, particularly Broke (2000) and Blackout (2003), where singles Bartender, Killing Time and Blackout received regular rotation on the good old music channels. The exposure didn’t stop there as multiple tracks from the album made their way onto various EA Sports gaming franchises such as Madden and NASCAR.
Whilst Blackout was arguably their most successful release for its leanings towards the more mainstream friendly approach, from the band’s perspective it is not exactly their most fondly considered effort. Frontman and founding member Jared Gomes has actually gone on record to dismiss it as “corporate junk” as they felt pressured to pander to the needs of the record label more than making their own vision the top priority. Further down the line, said label also released a ‘Best Of’ compilation; The Best Of Hed Planet Earth in 2006 without consent of the band which was sure to leave a sour taste in their mouths.
Despite the conflict surrounding Blackout, it was still packed with energy and killer hooks which still have pride of place in many a playlist. From the ring announcers’ introduction teeing up album opener Suck It Up, to the anthemic chorus of title track, to the emotionally charged Half The Man there are many moments and highlights which give you that warm nostalgic feeling for those growing up in the heyday of the nu-metal uprising.
After relieving themselves of the shackles of their former label they opted to go independent. In true rebellious fashion the album which followed, Only In Amerika (2004), was the polar opposite, drenched from front to back in the explicit as a metaphorical middle finger to being pressured into stifling their creativity. An album which was not for the faint of heart but certainly made a statement.
Since this ‘purple patch’ the band have continued to acquire relative acclaim on the independent circuits but have encountered a host of personnel and label changes, to the point where Gomes is figuratively the last man standing. However, this hasn’t remotely hindered his hunger and motivation to bring his sharp tongued lyrical concoctions to life. The tracks from Blackout also receive regular rotation on their touring cycles. 2023 represents the 20th anniversary of this release and there is no question that Blackout has stood the test of time.
Blackout was originally released on March 18th 2003 via Jive Records.
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