The 80’s were a very fun time. I grew up listening to all the bands from that era. Some are still favorites to this day. It’s fun these days to hear certain songs from that era and it not only takes you back but, it also provides a bit of fun. One of those songs I remember being a lot of fun is Def Leppards “Pour Some Sugar On Me.” Hysteria was such a huge album for the band and for the era. That whole album is basically full of singles. I’ll never forget seeing the videos for all those and singing along. “Pour Some Sugar On Me” was definitely the one that stood out the most at the time. Interestingly, this song was the 4th single from the album and it’s what helped propel the album to sell even more millions of copies.
There are too many instances when bands come around and aren’t pushed the right way. Especially when they have all the goods to really make it. In 2003, Memento released their debut album Beginnings. Two singles were released from the album, “Nothing Sacred” and “Savior,” Both songs made some impact on the US rock charts. Memento was also a part of Ozzfest in 2003. Their album is heavy, melodic, and beautiful. From what I remember of their live shows, they were super tight and singer Justin Stewart Cotta was always on point and one of the most intense singers up close. His conviction while singing was undoubtably genuine. Musically, guitarist Jason “Space” Smith, bassist Leighton “Lats” Kearns, and drummer Steve Clark were superb. They were able to create a sound that matched the emotional lyrics of Justin. It’s a shame that it didn’t last. Due to personal conflicts amongst the band members, as well as record label issues, the band was dissolved in late 2004. Justin Cotta and Lats Kearns re-emerged as Man Vs Clock in 2005. In early 2006, Memento reformed with a new drummer, Jeff Bowders, under the new name Nine Times Bodyweight. The band went to work recording new material. However, the project didn’t last, and they disbanded again in early 2007.
Memento is a prefect example of a band that had all the right parts, but not the right support. It’s a real shame that this has been a continuing practice amongst the record labels for years. Had this band really been supported by their label, they could have gone on to really big things.
AUDIOECLECTICA 