Biography
Pressure 4-5 conveys the upbeat, affirmative, mind-over-matter aspects of existence through sounds that stretch from brooding melodic heavy metal to direct rap-metal, overcoming darkness with encouraging themes. In Santa Barbara, CA, Adam Rich on vocals and Mark Berry on guitar first connected while in college and issued a call for additional members during January 1998. Fellow student Lyle McKeany soon came aboard on bass. The group settled on the name Pressure 4-5 after Joe Schmidt served as DJ throughout the initial year; although eager to handle guitar duties, he accepted the turntable role because the lineup called for only a single guitarist at the time. Schmidt’s inconsistent attendance at rehearsals and gigs left the others uncertain whether four or five musicians would appear onstage, which directly inspired the moniker. When he later moved to second guitar, his steady presence reinforced the overall sound. Schmidt’s brother Tom, an outstanding drummer, completed the lineup, enabling the band to begin live performances and touring in January 1999. That same year they self-produced and issued their independent EP Antechnology.
DreamWorks issued the band’s first proper full-length, Burning the Process, in October 2001. Jay Baumgardner, previously at the helm for Orgy, Slipknot, Papa Roach, and Coal Chamber, produced the record, which blends heavy metal with rap-metal and features the standout tracks “Beat the World” and “Into Yesterday.” The album title and thematic thrust reflect Pressure 4-5’s focus on the process of discovering life’s meaning and the act of surmounting obstacles to move forward. Their lyrics address recovery from loss as well as the occasional irrationality of religion. Because every member also plays guitar and contributes songwriting, the band generates variety through thoughtful, nonconformist, and energetic means.
DreamWorks issued the band’s first proper full-length, Burning the Process, in October 2001. Jay Baumgardner, previously at the helm for Orgy, Slipknot, Papa Roach, and Coal Chamber, produced the record, which blends heavy metal with rap-metal and features the standout tracks “Beat the World” and “Into Yesterday.” The album title and thematic thrust reflect Pressure 4-5’s focus on the process of discovering life’s meaning and the act of surmounting obstacles to move forward. Their lyrics address recovery from loss as well as the occasional irrationality of religion. Because every member also plays guitar and contributes songwriting, the band generates variety through thoughtful, nonconformist, and energetic means.
Albums