Christopher Volz (born March 16 1975) is an American singer and songwriter, most prominently recognized as the former lead vocalist of the nu‑metal band Flaw.
Early life
Volz was born in the United States and grew up in California. He later moved to Louisville, Kentucky, where he co‑founded Flaw in the mid‑1990s.
Career
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Flaw (1996–2005, 2009–present)
- Volz formed Flaw with guitarist Tommy Gawenda in 1996.
- The band signed with Universal Records and released its debut album Through the Eyes in 2001, which featured the single “Payback” and reached #119 on the Billboard 200.
- A second studio album, Endangered Species, followed in 2004.
- Volz departed the group in 2005 for personal and health reasons but later rejoined for subsequent touring and recording cycles, including the 2015 A New Chapter EP.
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Side projects and collaborations
- After his initial departure from Flaw, Volz performed with the alternative rock project Five, alongside former Flaw members.
- He has contributed guest vocals to various artists within the hard‑rock and metal scenes, though most of his recorded output remains centered on his work with Flaw.
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Solo work
- In 2015, Volz released the solo acoustic album Redemption, which showcased a more stripped‑down, singer‑songwriter approach compared with his prior heavy‑rock material.
- The album received positive feedback for its lyrical introspection and vocal performance.
Musical style and influences
Volz is noted for a versatile vocal range, capable of delivering aggressive, gritty passages as well as melodic, emotive lines. His style incorporates elements of nu‑metal, hard rock, and acoustic balladry, reflecting influences from singers such as Chester Bennington and Axl Rose.
Discography (selected)
| Year | Release | Type | Notable role |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2001 | Through the Eyes | Studio album (Flaw) | Lead vocalist |
| 2004 | Endangered Species | Studio album (Flaw) | Lead vocalist |
| 2015 | Redemption | Solo acoustic album | Primary vocalist, songwriter |
| 2015 | A New Chapter EP | EP (Flaw) | Lead vocalist (reunion) |
Recognition
Flaw’s early 2000s releases earned the band moderate commercial success and placement on mainstream rock radio. Volz’s vocal performances have been highlighted in reviews for their intensity and emotional delivery.
Current activity
As of the latest available information (2023), Chris Volz continues to perform and record with Flaw, while also pursuing occasional solo and collaborative projects. No further solo album releases have been announced beyond Redemption.
