Breaking: Early Graves Has a New Vocalist, John Strachan of L.A.'s The Funeral Pyre

By Jason Roche Wed., Aug. 10 2011 at 10:39 PM

Categories: Live in L.A., Locals Only

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John Strachan

Makh Daniels, lead singer of S.F. hardcore group Early Graves, passed away last August after a van accident during the tour for their latest album, Goner. The accident came at a pivotal point in the young band's career, as many heavy metal/punk journalists had them pegged as ready to break out from the pack. Much of that was due to the lyrics and stage presence of Daniels, which were very personal and at times confrontational.

Well, Early Graves is set for their first live performance since Daniels' death, this Saturday at The Power Of The Riff festival at The Echo and Echoplex. And they now have a new vocalist as well: John Strachan, of L.A. blackened-death band The Funeral Pyre.

Strachan broke the news himself, in a post on heavy metal blog Gun Shy Assassin. He wrote:

"I recently joined Early Graves, after the passing of their singer and great friend, Makh Daniels. It's been intense taking over those duties for him, but it's also been something that has kind of revitalized me in music."

Strachan himself is known for his intense live presence. As evidenced by the below clip of Early Graves performing "Safety Net Acrobats," however, Daniels left some big shoes to fill.

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