Control Denied Members, Gear & Sound
Members
Select a Control Denied band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Control Denied was a progressive metal band formed by the legendary Chuck Schuldiner, best known as the mastermind behind pioneering death metal band Death. Originating in 1996, Control Denied featured Chuck Schuldiner (guitar), Tim Aymar (vocals), Steve DiGiorgio (bass), Shannon Hamm (guitar), and Richard Christy (drums). The band explored a more melodic yet powerful sound than Schuldiner's previous work, blending elements of progressive metal, power metal, and death metal. This lineup allowed Control Denied to craft music that was technically intricate while maintaining a strong melodic core, culminating in their acclaimed album The Fragile Art of Existence.
How to Sound Like Control Denied
Control Denied's sound is characterized by its complex, melodic guitar arrangements and the clear, powerful vocal delivery of Tim Aymar. Schuldiner’s use of B.C. Rich guitars, coupled with the Marshall JCM800 2203, created a tone that was both aggressive and rich in harmonic detail. The intricate bass work of Steve DiGiorgio, often performed on an Ibanez BTB Series Bass Guitar, added depth and complexity, perfectly complementing the layered guitar harmonies. The band’s music is driven by dynamic shifts between melodic passages and heavy, thrashing riffs, making use of clear, precise distortion to maintain clarity in their intricate compositions. Control Denied's approach to metal was both sophisticated and accessible, appealing to fans of both heavy and progressive music.
Discography
Get the Control Denied Sound
Want to sound like Control Denied? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.