Peter Steele / Type O Negative @ Rockwave Festival 2007 at Terra Vibe (Malakása) near Athens, Greece (Sun 1 July 2007)
Peter Steele (Type O Negative): Putting on glasses at the Rockwave Festival in Athens, Greece.
RIP Peter Steele, born Petrus Thomas Ratajczyk, was the vocalist, bassist, and songwriter for the gothic metal band Type O Negative. Before forming Type O Negative, he fronted the thrash band Carnivore. Type O Negative, formed after Carnivore's breakup, achieved mainstream success with their 1993 album "Bloody Kisses". Steele's imposing presence, deep bass vocals, and dark, often humorous lyrics, combined with the band's unique blend of gothic, doom, and hardcore elements, made them a distinctive force in the metal scene.
Here's a more detailed look at the history:
Early Bands:
Steele's musical journey began with Fallout, where he met Josh Silver, who would later join Type O Negative. He then formed Carnivore, which released two albums before disbanding.
Type O Negative Formation:
After Carnivore, Steele formed Type O Negative with childhood friends Josh Silver, Kenny Hickey, and Sal Abruscato. Initially named Repulsion, then Sub-Zero, they eventually settled on Type O Negative.
Sound and Style:
Type O Negative's music was a blend of doom metal, hardcore punk, and gothic atmosphere. Steele's lyrics often explored themes of love, loss, addiction, and personal struggles. The band's visual aesthetic, with its gothic imagery and Steele's imposing stature, became a defining aspect of their identity.
"Bloody Kisses" and Mainstream Success:
The band's breakthrough came with their third album, "Bloody Kisses," which propelled them into the mainstream.
Peter Steele's Persona:
Steele was known for his towering height (6'8"), his distinctive deep bass vocals, and his dark, often self-deprecating sense of humor. He was nicknamed "The Green Man" due to his previous job with the New York City Parks Department, where he wore green and drove a green garbage truck.
Legacy:
Type O Negative's influence can be seen in various bands and artists, particularly in their use of gothic imagery and their blending of different musical styles. Steele's songwriting, influenced by Black Sabbath and The Beatles, left a lasting impact on the metal scene.
Steele's Death:
Peter Steele passed away on April 14, 2010, at the age of 48. The cause of death was initially reported as an aortic aneurysm but was later revealed to be blood poisoning from untreated diverticulitis.
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