VolumeDealer

One may ask... What is a Volume Dealer? Is it someone who deals in large quantities? Or perhaps something that projects enormous amounts of volume in your general direction...well, in Central Ohio, both are correct. Volume Dealer deals with large quantities of catchy hooks, vocal melodies and heavy grooves... and when they take the stage they project all that with a loud intensity that has to be seen to be appreciated. Formed in spring of 2004, Volume Dealer takes their influences from the likes of Tool, Chevelle and Sevendust and mixes it with a little Mudvayne and Metallica for a unique blend of heaviness with a touch of melodic class. Their self-titled EP was completed in the Fall of 2005. Vocalist Billy Payne's diverse voice ranges from the gutteral depths in the song "Gutcheck" to the smoothness of the bands intriguing ballad "When Angels Cry". When mixed with the voices of Guitarist Eric McGuire and Bassist Joe Dameron, the 3 part harmonies are a welcome sound that is rare in this type of music. Add in the technical prowess and groove oriented beats of drummer Chris Owens, and you have your friendly neighborhood Volume Dealer!

With stimulating music and a compelling live show, Volume Dealer has quickly vaulted to the top of the Central Ohio music scene. They have most recently opened up for national acts such as Hinder, and Bobaflex at the "99.7 The Blitz Anniversary Bash 2005" featuring System of a Down at Promowest Pavilion. Notably, Volume Dealer was the last band to play in front of Damageplan at The Alrosa Villa on Dec. 8th 2004, the tragic night a gunman charged the stage killing 4 people including Damageplan's legendary guitarist Dimebag Darrell. Billy Payne reflects, "That night changed us and the face of music forever". Volume Dealer headlined the "Rock To Remember" benfit show at The Newport Music hall and raised over $20,000 for the local victims families. They also traveled all the way to Lincoln, Nebraska to perform for a benefit there in January 2005. Even though the band gained national attention with articles and interviews in many national publications including Rolling Stone and The Chicago Tribune, they have remained extremely humble. "We just want to be known for our music" says drummer Chris Owens. Most will say that will definitely be what they will be known for.