Rash Of The Titans: Two Tons of Steel

Rash of the Titans by Dale Arnold of hwy82musicreview.com

There are rumors, and there are rumors, but the fact of the matter is one of the greatest icon bands in Texas music, Two Tons of Steel, has gone their separate ways. At least with the members we all have grown to know and love that is. Knowing this kind of thing happens frequently in the industry this is no shock to me and is to be expected. Musicians have great passion for their art and it can create huge riffs in the fabric of the space-time continuum when a group as well rounded and famous as Two Tons of Steel turns supernova. What most folks do not realize is the sacrifice our friends go through to stay on the top. The endless hours traveling from town to town, and gig to gig in the close confines of a van can take their toll. Staying away from home and loved ones for such long periods along with other issues that come up just from being around the same people day in and day out can be hard on even the best of friends. Musical interests change over time and every band member has a personal idea of what they want their career to be, and an opinion of how to get it there. I have seen it happen many times over the years as members change and morph into other bands, and great bands separate looking for that ever-elusive perfect sound that propels them into the high-dollar arenas. Let us face a fact that is what the quest for the true final nirvana is; Finding the one great opportunity; the one big break that propels a band into stardom. It is a quaint idea most of us blissfully entertain that musicians play simply for the love of the song, but in today’s world that is growing more increasingly rare. It is naiveté for all of us on this side of the fence to think our favorite musicians and bands do not want; nay need this to be able to continue to bring us the wonderful sounds and lyrics we all enjoy so much.

This is where we come in as friends and fans that support these high-spirited folks and show them that no matter what the reasons were for the dissection were still out here and still listening. Sure, it is hard to grasp that the band members will not be the same anymore. Sure, it is a little un-nerving to think the sound may change from what we know and love. Sure, we may have alliances to some of the jilted members for whatever reasons. But putting all of the selfish and prideful issues aside, just think of all of the new and even greater possibilities. Change is an opportunity to grow. We have the opportunity to dissipate the differences and anxieties. We have an opportunity to move in a different direction under an entirely new set of circumstances.

From the bands perspective the separation can produce new music, and new sounds. The time apart can give the space needed to heal any wounds caused in the name of passion. The infusion of new members not only adds some fresh new sound to the mix but new direction and new ideas. The separate musicians are now able to pursue personal interests related to family, musical careers, or primary jobs. New bands formed and new friendships are forged. I say there is more to gain all around from the dissolve of a group so we should not pine and despair. Seize the day my fellow Two Tons fans. Pray for all of the guys and hope them the best. Look forward to new territory and new beginnings. The Beatles, the Eagles, Crosby Stills and Nash, John David Kent and The Dumb Angles, Two Bar Town, Whiskey Road Show, Miles From Nowhere, and now Two Tons of Steel, it has happed to us all at one time of another. A meeting of the minds and a parting of the ways is sometimes necessary. I wish Kevin, Dennis, Chris R., and Doddsy all of the best as I know everyone of their die-hard fans out here do. I look forward to hearing and seeing each one of them again out on the circuit alone, or together. I am proud to call them my friends, and I will support them in whatever endeavors they have. I’ll be the loudest one in the front row when the reunion tour comes around. Two Tons! Two Tons!

Dale Arnold

Co-owner, CIS officer

Texas Red Productions

Texas Red Photography

www.hwy82musicreview.com