Naked Truth

This Atlanta, Georgia-based quartet formed in the city’s hardcore scene during 1988, though its members had migrated from distant locations: vocalist Doug Watts from Detroit, bass player Jeff from Harlem, New York, drummer Bernard Dawson from Los Angeles, and only Jimmie Westley, the Savannah native, hailing from within Georgia itself. Early prospects proved difficult for a black metal outfit operating in that state, yet the dreadlocked ensemble drew the attention of former Clash manager Bernie Rhodes, who arranged their Sony contract and prompted a move to London. Green With Rage presented Naked Truth’s raw, aggressive sound, colored by distinctive jazz and funk elements, but homesick Jeff soon exited and was succeeded by London-born Kwame Boaten ahead of the Read Between The Lines EP. After losing a planned Motörhead support slot to a cancelled tour, the band secured a UK run with Little Angels instead, and despite the stylistic mismatch they earned a positive response. Steady London residencies helped cultivate a diverse audience that carried into the release of Fight. That album showcased the group’s skill at blending jazz with death metal in a fluid and convincing manner, while Watts delivered an expansive vocal range spanning rap to full-tilt hardcore intensity alongside thoughtful lyrics. Their supporting performances for Living Colour across the UK left a strong impression, after which the band opted to rename themselves Watts before issuing their next studio album.