Akercocke

Akercocke are a Progressive Blackened Death Metal band from London formed in 1997. They take their name from a talking monkey in Robert Nye's interpretation of the Faust-legend. They are famous for dressing in suits during concerts, their Satanic beliefs, and their drummer's extreme speed.

The band was formed in 1997 by Jason Mendonca (guitar) and David Gray (drums). The two had been friends in the past, and played in Salem Orchid until 1992, when that band split up. They soon added a second guitarist, Paul Scanlan, and a bassist, Peter Theobalds. They self-released their first album, Rape of the Bastard Nazarene, in 1999; after this release met with some success, they were signed to Peaceville Records, an underground record company; their debut release for the new company was 2001's The Goat of Mendes. 2003 saw the release of Choronzon, on Earache Records. Shortly after, guitarist Paul Scanlan parted company with Akercocke. He has suggested privately that this was not his choice, but no official statement to that effect has been made by either party. His replacement is Matt Wilcock, formerly of Australian metal band The Berzerker.

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