YOB Members, Gear & Sound

YOB is an influential American band in the doom metal scene, hailing from Eugene, Oregon. Known for their expansive and emotive soundscapes, the group was formed in 1996 by Mike Scheidt (vocals, guitar). The current lineup also includes Aaron Rieseberg (bass) and Travis Foster (drums). YOB's music traverses a spectrum of genres, including doom metal, stoner rock, and sludge metal, drawing listeners into a world of both crushing intensity and reflective beauty. Their ability to blend heavy riffs with ethereal atmospheres has earned them a dedicated following and critical acclaim within the metal community.

YOB's sonic character is defined by its thunderous yet transcendent heaviness, achieving a balance between aggressive power and meditative calm. Their sound is often characterized by massive, droning guitar tones that envelop the listener, supported by the use of delay and reverb for added depth and texture. Mike Scheidt's choice of gear, such as the EarthQuaker Devices Avalanche Run V2 and Mr. Black Eterna Stained Glass Limited Edition Pedal, enhances their otherworldly soundscapes. The amplifiers, like the Hiwatt Custom 100 Amplifier Head, deliver a raw, tube-driven warmth that complements the band’s dynamic range, from crushing riffs to serene passages. The drums and bass add to the seismic force of their music, grounding the ethereal elements with a solid, rhythmic foundation. YOB’s ability to weave melancholic melodies with colossal heaviness creates an immersive listening experience that is both deeply introspective and sonically expansive.