I am just the Grumpy Ole Headbanger keeping some promises to one day bring RIAR back to life. Even if only for nostalgia.
RIAR was a very real band, started in 1994 in Benton City Wa.
The Original line up was;
Vocals - James Gottula
Lead Guitar - Jeremy Malone (The Grumpy Ole Headbanger)
Rhythm Guitar - Levi Gear
Bass - Jeff Peyton
Drums - Michelle Peyton
The line up changed a few times over the years, but the songs remained.
As RIAR has since disbanded, it still remains a wonderful memory for all of us who were there and once had a very loyal following. This is a project that I have wanted to do for a long time. Back in the 90's we didn't have the ability to make good recordings. If people wanted to hear us, they had to come to a live show.
So, with the aid of AI and new ways to remaster songs, I am able to finally do what we all dreamed of doing back then. This project is not only for the purpose of giving all of the former members of RIAR (and to remember our fallen brother Mark Himenez), but to our fans that always wanted us to record, the ability to re-live something that was special.
I am always asked what RIAR means.
Definition - RIAR: Drunk bass player.
We were all sitting around the table after practice brainstorming what to call ourselves. We had been drinking and all of a sudden Jeff let out this yawn that sounded like a roar, it popped into my head RIAR, and it just stuck.
All of the songs are original RIAR songs written by the band over the years. Some have been recreated using new tools (including AI). But make no mistake they were all written by and performed by RIAR.
Story behind the song
I have seen a lot of religions and the one thing that absolutely rubs me the wrong way is most have one thing in common, as soon as you walk in the door they are asking for money. Then you find out later that it was all for greed. It is pay to play. With the exception of one, whom I will not name. They keep a little donation box in the back. No one sees what you put in, no one asks, and no one knows if you donated or not.
In my mind religion is corrupt to its core. There are exceptions, but they are few and after between.
Use your own judgement and do what is best for you. Because in the end it is between you and God, and no one else.
Lyrics
Crystal Snake
[Verse 1]
Preacher says follow me and I will lead you to the promised land.
For a dollar he will fix your pain.
For a dollar more he will save your soul,
With chains of faith and a sleight of hand.
In holy robes, he spins the tale,
While empty coffers sing his praise,
A serpent's charm in a shining veil,
The crystal snake leads you astray.
[Verse 2]
In the shadows of the steeple, watch the faithful kneel and pray.
For a prayer, theyll find redemption, but nothings free; its just a game.
A tapestry of lies woven tight,
With hands outstretched and voices loud,
But when the spirit fades from sight,
Can you hear the truth beneath the lies?
[Verse 3]
Hearts are breaking from the burden, lost in whispers and in fear,
Beneath the sheen of salvation, the truth is blurred, never clear.
The cross adorned with silver chains,
A holy war for cash and fame,
The faithful's hope, it fuels the flames,
While the crystal snake feeds on their pain.
[Chorus]
The crystal snake, slithers near,
With a golden tongue that bites and leers.
In the name of love, they take your trust,
A twisted faith, another must.
Open your eyes; the time has come.
Break free from the chains of the crooked ones.
[Bridge]
Awake to the warning, can't you see?
Corruption's the price of your blind decree.
Rise from the ashes, reclaim your voice,
The power is yours; its time to rejoice.
[Chorus]
The crystal snake, slithers near,
With a golden tongue that bites and leers.
In the name of love, they take your trust,
A twisted faith, another must.
Open your eyes; the time has come.
Break free from the chains of the crooked ones.
[Outro]
So heed the call, dont turn away,
Find your own truth, make your own way.
The serpent's charm will fade to gray,
With the strength inside, you'll break the chain.
