Artimus Pyledriver

• Formed: 2001, Atlanta, GA
• Genres: Rock
• Representative Albums: "Artimus Pyledriver

Biography

The fact that Southern rock gods Lynyrd Skynyrd derived their moniker from their high school gym teacher, Leonard Skinner, makes it seem only natural that longtime drummer Artimus Pyle might someday have his name corrupted and appropriated by another band such as Atlanta, GA's Artimus Pyledriver. Formed in 2001 by vocalist Dave Slocum and guitarist Jimmy Hall -- both veterans of several local sludge and hardcore bands -- Artimus Pyledriver picked up steam with the arrival of second guitarist Damon Goldsmith, bassist Michael Faulkner, and drummer Travis Owen, and embarked upon regional touring with like-minded underground hard rock bands such as Mastodon, Suplecs, and Dixie Witch. Thus their fan base began to grow, and among them was former Coal Chamber, then DevilDriver singer Dez Fafara, who recommended Artimus Pyledriver to DRT Records, which released the band's eponymous debut in 2006. ~ Eduardo Rivadavia, All Music Guide