I always tell people I handle loss pretty well; when the reality is I’ve never lost anything that meant this much.
As a young kid from the midwest I worshipped Harm’s Way. I remember my first metalcore band opening for them in a field in Owensboro, KY in 2013. I took a picture with James that night as a fan. At that time I looked up to Bo as a guitar player who looked cool as fuck onstage.
When our path’s crossed down the line, Bo and I immediately connected. We shared a mutual love of Metallica (the greatest band of all time) and high carb meals. We would break bread at the Cheesecake Factory and talk riffs for hours on end. Harm’s Way became KL’s favorite band to play shows with. I’ll never forget him telling me to take it easy moshing when they played Fantasy.
He was so truly invested in every conversation we ever had. His eyes lit up when I talked. It felt like he truly cared. I’m sure those who knew him know what I’m talking about. There’s so many relationships that you form in the music world that remain arm’s length; but this was real. A true friend.
We always talked about the day we’d watch Metallica together. That was supposed to happen in a couple weeks. Every note they play I’ll be thinking of him. The last text he sent me was the menu to my favorite steakhouse; asking me what he should get. It makes me smile.
Thank you to Bo and his loved ones for treating me and mine as family. I’m happy we have each other.
I miss my friend. I’m gonna go listen to our podcast that never came out.
Bo will reign.
Blood & Tears “Brotherhood Demo” out now on streaming services and YouTube. Music & Lyrics written and performed by Blood & Tears. Additional vocals by Dan Weinraub, Martín Stewart, Valentina Samayoa & Ronaldo Samayoa.
Produced, engineered and mixed by Taylor Young at @thepitrecordingstudio in Sunland, CA. Mastered by Brad Boatright @audiosiege Follow @bloodandtearshc for updates on the band. Shows, physical copies and merch soon.
