This week we hit the road for 6 hours for Texas Domination Festival in San Marcos, TX produced by Live Decimation Events! We had the chance to dive deep with promoter, Skull Zapata, and talk all things music and business.
This booming metal fest took place at the indoor/outdoor venue, Regnor's On The Compound, in San Marcos, TX. The show started at 4PM and there were 17 diverse bands from all over Texas that shared the stage. I would also like to add that the time management for this fest was exceptional! These bands kicked ass and the organization as one was very wholesome and united.
We were able to ask promoter, Skull Zapata, a few questions in regards to the festival and his job as a music promoter.
What was your ultimate goal with Texas Domination Fest?
"My goal was to bring the biggest locals from different cities and young and upcoming bands who are looking for a name for themselves, together to network, meet each other, and make new friendships. I wanted to put together one big epic show for all the fans."
Why did you become a promoter?
"I became a promoter after my band got ripped off for two shows straight. It made me imagine how many bands he [the promoter] was doing that to as well. I did not want bands to be taken advantage of and wanted to give all bands in my shows an even payout from the show revenue."
What upcoming shows are you putting on?
"Friday, July 30th in San Antonio, TX bands Eternal Witch, Drop Dead Dammit, Stoned Naked, and Switch.
Something about live music gets that adrenaline pumping! Am I right?! The roaring crowd, loud guitar riffs flowing throughout every vein in your music-needing body. Do you ever think where we'd be as a society without music? Okay, okay the sound is getting too deep. Let's get back to the fest.
It was hot. Mosquitos were in full force and the sun was cooking us up like some Texas BBQ. The venue didn't provide much cooling, but they did have massive fans that I casually hogged up every now and then. It was a creative challenge jumping from one set to the other to photograph bands and in between checking out the merchandise tables but it was well worth it. The photos are A1 (and I don't mean the sauce) and don't even get me started on the Tees I was able to grab.
Each and every band was very willing and had no problem getting with our team for questions, photos, or even just to say hey! Here's a few things we were able to snag!
Victera was the first band on our mission to take the stage. Opening up with Eat Me Alive and then moving onto (a personal favorite) Rabbit Hole, vocalist Justin Aldridge, had everyone on their toes during their set! Interacting with crowd between songs and getting their fans pumped up. Lead guitarist, Ryan Montelongo, shared some of his vocals during the show and believe me when I tell you guys everyones jaw hit the ground! It's always cool when bands have two singers. After a few more songs, Victera played their new song, Passenger, and finished off with a crowd favorite, Destruction. After a brief break it was time for the next band to hop on stage.
Lead vocalist, Matthew Reese of Through Life and Worst Case Scenario has insane vocals that never seem to disappoint. You know, from an outsider looking in, it's amazing watching bands get on stage and understand immediately that it's not just a stage or another performance, but another home for them. It is an outlet, a safe haven. It was quite extraordinary to witness. With Reese, you can see it from a mile away, you can feel it. He wears his passion and we love to see it! Through Life rocked the stage and believe me when I say they set the bar pretty freaking high!
Skull Zapata's band, Decimate, took the outdoor stage and kept the crowd excited. Everyone stayed outside for Decimate's entire performance. By this time the sun was setting, the air was getting fresher, but that didn't stop us from cramming inside the venue to watch Soothsayer finish the night strong.
Soothsayer is a phenomenal band, so I knew this was going to be a killer performance. They played all of the crowds favorites including their new single, Eternal. As a small pit began to open up, the bands vocalist jumped down from the stage and began to mosh with fans. It was such a humbling sight to see. Vocalists from Victera and Through Life shared the mic during their set too and for some reason everyone and everything in that moment felt connected and soulful. It was by far one of the best shows Sound Deep has attended.
Overall, Texas Domination Fest was a success and a great opportunity for creative locals to network and share many similarities. It was a great time and a great experience. We definitely cannot wait for Texas Domination Fest 2 in San Antonio, TX on November 7th.