Born and Raised, Gas Monkey Bar and Grill, Dallas
By Ryan Javier
DALLAS – The eclectic and spry crowd was amped up as the metal band, Born and Raised, took to the stage at the Gas Monkey Bar N Grill for their first performance at this venue.
Playing a solid 40 minute set of original songs, Born and Raised kept the energy level up in the house and gave a strong performance. Pumping out expertly crafted songs in the key of hard-edged southern metal, this band did not disappoint. Rather the contrary was achieved with the greatest of ease, as they left the stage with the entire house wanting more. Urged on by cacophony of cries and impatient pleas for “One more song” from the audience, Born and Raised performed an extraordinary rendition of Pantera’s I’m Broken as an encore.
Their stage presence was that of a disciplined and well organized professionals. What struck me was their 
on-stage camaraderie and the fact that all members were totally in sync with one another throughout their whole set. This is surprising, given that the lead singer Nate, has only been with the band a few short months. Nate was previously the front man for the band New Voodoo.
Originally conceived as jam band in Denton in 2008, Born and Raised has achieved tremendous success in the regional circuit. Despite a few facelifts, the band has managed to retain their unique sound and the righteous enigmatic quality that has led to the group’s popularity.
Born and Raised currently consists of newcomer Nate on vocals and seasoned vet Vinay on bass, while founding members: Dane on drums and guitarists Big Jon and Carlos round out the group. Vinay originally joined the band near the end of 2008, departed to attend medical school in 2009 and returned to Born and Raised in 2012. Although previous lead singer Jason Webb played a key role in the songwriting process, the current incarnation of Born and Raised agrees that their repertoire of tunes is a collaborative effort, shared equally between all members.
Influenced by artists such as Dream Theater, Tool and Pantera and musicians such as Zakk Wylde, Born 
and Raised has developed their own sound in the increasingly widening Progressive/Metal genre. Razor-sharp riffs, stirring lyrics, deafening bass lines and malicious beats with a southern flair are the trademark of Born and Raised.
Born and Raised is set to release a single of their new song, Break, along with a video in the next few months. Until then, they will continue their tour of Texas and Oklahoma. Shockingly, these superbly talented musicians are currently in the market for labels. Check out their band page at facebook.com/bornraisedband for more info, details and upcoming show dates.
Article and photos by: Ryan Javier
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