M'Lou Elkins
MusicFiends.com went face-to-face with Blake Ibanez of Fugitive and Power Trip in the heart of Milwaukee Metal Fest’s madness. We talked future plans, riff-crafting rituals, and what’s next for both crushing bands. Brace yourself…there’s plenty to sink your teeth into. Keep your eyes locked on MusicFiends.com for a relentless stream of Milwaukee Metal Fest carnage and exclusive interviews still to come. We’re bruised, blasted, and running on fumes…but the coverage won’t stop.
Forged in the fires of Dallas, Texas, Fugitive is a no-frills crossover thrash assault led by Blake Ibanez of Power Trip. Rising from the underground in 2022, this band wastes no time with pleasantries, just chainsaw riffs, relentless aggression, and a snarling spirit that channels classic thrash through a hardcore lens. With members from bands like Creeping Death and Skourge, Fugitive is a full-throttle force keeping the flame of Texas metal burning hot and mean.
The supergroup, combines the talents of prominent figures from the state’s hardcore and thrash scenes. The band was formed by guitarist Blake Ibanez of Power Trip and vocalist Seth Gilmore of Skourge. They were joined by guitarist Victor Gutierrez (Impalers), bassist Andy Messer (ANS, Stymie), and drummer Lincoln Mullins (Creeping Death) .
Their debut EP, Maniac, released in August 2022, showcases a blend of aggressive thrash metal with elements reminiscent of early death metal. The EP features four original tracks and a cover of Bathory’s “Raise the Dead” . Following this, Fugitive released a two-track single, Blast Furnace b/w Standoff, in July 2023, further solidifying their presence in the metal scene .
Fugitive has been active in live performances, including appearances at events like the Metallica M72 Takeover in Arlington and Dallas, and the Hellshine Fest in Tampa, Florida. Their music and performances have been recognized for their intensity and contribution to the metal genre.
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