Kentucky Ugly is a home grown southern heavy metal band. Originating in late 2011, by chance rehearsals, the band fused a thrash drummer (Shawn, formerly of Goddamage), a doom bassist (Jamie, from Ruins of Reason), and a blues/metal guitarist (Derek, Level / Chainsaw Reload) into a well-oiled machine known as Kentucky Ugly. The goal was to birth a 3-piece Kentucky original southern metal monster blending each members style into songwriting and performance.
“Our purpose is our sound, our fans and our drive to create for the UGLY family”.
Kentucky Ugly is a hard-driving three piece metal band. I wantto say their music is bass-driven, but that would not be accurate. It’s equal parts heavy bass, thrashing drums, guitar and vocals. Kentucky Ugly is an infusion of three exceptional musicians from diverse backgrounds.
These guys are veteran musicians who came together in late 2011 to create a unique sound that’s metal, but also bluesy southern rock. Shawn Smolinsky brings a history of thrash drumming, Jamie Wilcher adds his experience with and love of sludge/doom on bass and Derek Wilson contributes his blues inspired guitars and tough vocals that belie his easy going, soft-spoken voice.
Kentucky Ugly’s music might not cause your neck to get wrecked, but your head will certainly bang as their music pounds deep within your chest. This is music that gives new meaning to what southern metal can be.
Take a listen to Kentucky Ugly’s distinctive offerings of heavy southern metal, born and bred in the Heart of the Bluegrass of Kentucky and their first ever interview.