Trap Them Members, Gear & Sound

Trap Them is an American hardcore band hailing from Salem, New Hampshire, known for their aggressive blend of hardcore punk, grindcore, and sludge metal. The band was formed in 2002 by Ryan McKenney (vocals) and Brian Vincent Izzi (guitar), both of whom were inspired by influential acts like Entombed and Black Flag. Over the years, Trap Them's lineup has evolved, with significant contributions from members such as Derek Black (bass) and Mike Sharp (drums), and later Galen Baudhuin (bass) and Brad Fickeisen (drums). Their discography is marked by a series of intense and unrelenting releases, including collaborations with producer Kurt Ballou.

Trap Them's sonic landscape is characterized by its raw, chaotic energy and dense, abrasive textures. The band's sound hinges on crushing guitar tones and pummeling rhythms, creating a visceral auditory assault. Brian Izzi's guitar work employs a heavily distorted, gritty tone, often achieved through the use of the Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal pedal, which adds a signature chainsaw-like aggression to their riffs. Amplification through gear like the Orange TH100 Head contributes to the overwhelming wall of sound, while the God City Custom Guitar ensures a unique tonal character. The drums are relentless and thunderous, driving each track with ferocious intensity, while the bass lines add a thick, sludgy undertone that anchors their chaotic arrangements. Overall, Trap Them's music is an embodiment of controlled chaos, fusing elements of grindcore and hardcore punk into an uncompromising, high-octane experience.