While there are many bands in this world who have significant influence in our lives, there are some that come to us from seemingly nowhere and remind you of where you've been. That's what Type O Negative was for me.
I was introduced to Type O sitting in my car in a parking lot seven years ago. They already had several albums (well cd's) out and I was being introduced to them by an avid Type O fan. Upon hearing that somber baritone voice I was instantly transported back to my room in my parents house circa 1986 listening to Sisters of Mercy and wondering why in the world my life sucked so bad. Of course it might of had something to do with Reagan, high school, drugs, my boyfriend, my clothes, or my ridiculous haircut but I was miserable all the same. Flash-forward to 2003 in my car and here I am listening to a band that was just as cynical and jaded as I had become from those good old days. The lyrics were funny, twisted, and brooding. Articulated by one who was at one time idealistic but then soon realized that the world is not a very nice place. I was completely hooked. I started going to shows when the band came to town. And while I was no longer a part of the crowd Type O attracted (I'm much older I have to say), I loved the music.
Today we received word that Peter Steele, the lead singer, bassist, and lyricists of Type O Negative passed away. He was 48. I didn't know him and don't know anyone that knew him. I don't know anything personal about him other than what he has written in his songs. But I am sad that he is gone. This world is a hard place and he understood that. He saw the pain, joy, absurdity, and hypocrisy in the world and he wrote about it. He didn't ask for anyone to agree with it; I don't think he cared anyway. But he appeared to be honest to me. I wish him well on his journey and I hope to see him on the flip-side.
MTV Remembers Peter Steele