Warning (British band)
Warning was a British doom metal band formed in 1994 by Patrick Walker and Stuart Springthorpe. They are considered a significant influence on the development of the modern doom metal scene, particularly the subgenres of emotional doom and post-metal.
History:
Warning was founded in Harlow, Essex. Their early releases, including the demo Revelation Looms, showcased a raw and melancholic sound that drew heavily from traditional doom metal bands like Candlemass and Saint Vitus. The band's breakthrough came with their 1996 album, The Strength to Dream, released on Miskatonic Foundation. This album established their signature sound, characterized by Walker's distinctive, emotionally-charged vocals, slow tempos, and deeply introspective lyrics.
In 2006, Warning released their second and final full-length album, Watching From A Distance, on Cyclone Empire. This album is widely regarded as a classic of the doom metal genre. Its themes of despair, loneliness, and unrequited love resonated deeply with listeners and solidified Warning's reputation as a highly influential band. The album featured a refined and more polished sound compared to their debut, while retaining the core elements of their melancholic and emotionally resonant style.
Break-up:
Following the release of Watching From A Distance, Warning ceased activity. Patrick Walker relocated to Germany and formed a new band, 40 Watt Sun, which continued to explore similar themes but with a more minimalist and acoustic-driven approach.
Legacy:
Despite their relatively short discography, Warning left a lasting impact on the doom metal scene. Their emotionally vulnerable lyrics and melancholic sound influenced a generation of bands. Watching From A Distance in particular is considered a landmark album in the genre, and the band's overall contribution to the development of emotional doom is widely recognized.
Discography:
- Revelation Looms (Demo, 1994)
- The Strength to Dream (1996)
- Watching From A Distance (2006)
Members:
- Patrick Walker - Vocals, Guitar
- Stuart Springthorpe - Guitar
- Frank Morrow - Bass (on The Strength to Dream)
- Brendan Gane - Bass (on Watching From A Distance)
- Christian Leitch - Drums (on The Strength to Dream)
- Steve Rayner - Drums (on Watching From A Distance)