Local Metal scene makes merry for Christmas

Recently, the heavy metal music community held the third in a series of “metal fests” in San Marcos. In the spirit of giving, a toy drive was held to benefit the children of the community and the toys were donated to the Southside Community Center by KZSM’s “Metal Mark” Moniz. Giving is not a foreign concept to this generally marginalized group of music lovers. Most often, heavy metal concerts evoke visions of violent mosh pits and loud, obnoxious and very dark music. Although some of this is warranted, when one gets to know the folks behind the darkness, the vision tends to soften. 

Moniz has been very instrumental in resurrecting the head-banging music scene in the Central Texas area. Dubbing himself as “The Godson of Heavy Metal,” he has provided a venue to promote this genre of music through his Metal Mark radio show. Hosting live bands in the studio as well as playing the music of both new and old performers has nurtured a genre that seemed to have all but disappeared.

With names like "Warhead Wrex," "Hate Waker" and "Force of Rage," one might expect angry musicians determined to wreak havoc on the rest of society, but nothing could be further from the truth. At every one of these recent events, these dedicated musicians who have been given an opportunity to demonstrate their abilities, have freely donated their time and talent to raise money or to collect toys for the less fortunate in the community. Their lyrics often are reflective of personal tragedies as well as current events that have touched them in one way or another.

The audiences at these events reflect the diversity one might expect at any other concert. Of course, there will be those attending in grungy clothing and dreadlocks, but then others appear to be clean-cut students and older individuals who still like to get out and “bang their heads” on occasion.

The times have changed, though visions of violence and mayhem may linger when one thinks of heavy metal concerts. Certainly, one will hear expletives interwoven within the lyrics of many songs, but this tends to be the catharsis of rage at the disparities that exist between the conformists and those who choose to walk on their own path.

Despite the non-conformity, this enlivened group of individuals are still humans who are passionate about causes and issues that are generally not addressed. They will continue to find their own way and they will continue to make a difference in the best way they see fit. Expect to hear more, expect to see more action,and definitely expect that this group will continue to generously share their talents and abilities in order to make a difference in the world around them.

"Metal Mark" Moniz may be heard on Friday nights from 10 p.m. to midnight on your community radio station, KZSM.org. Donations of food, toys and clothing are always being accepted at the Southside Community Center. The Youth Services Bureau is also located upstairs at the center and works to meet the needs of San Marcos’ youth.