Burton C. Bell's Final Words on Fear Factory's 'Aggression Continuum'
Former Fear Factory vocalist Burton C. Bell has opened up about his decision to refuse signing copies of his final studio album with the band, 'Aggression Continuum'. In a recent interview with the Scandalous Podcast, Bell shared his thoughts on the album's release and the reasons behind his stance.
Bell, who was the face of the influential industrial metal band for many years, resigned from Fear Factory ahead of the album's release due to legal infighting and other disputes. Guitarist Dino Cazares, who now holds the legal rights to the band's trademarks, continued with the group and replaced Bell with newcomer Milo Silvestro. Despite the amicable nature of their departure, Bell expressed disappointment over the album's repackaging and release without his personal blessing.
In 2018, Bell announced the completion of 'Aggression Continuum' and its intended 2019 release, even revealing the title 'Monolith' and early album art. However, when the album finally arrived, it was released under a different title and with altered artwork, among other changes. Bell explained, 'We finished that record in 2017 and it was titled 'Monolith'. To me, it was the tombstone and 'Monolith' was the epitaph.'
When asked about his feelings towards the album's release after his departure, Bell stated, 'No, I didn't feel that way. But I was really disappointed that they changed everything. They kept my vocals, but the album was already mixed, mastered, and had an album cover and title. After three years, I left, and things happened. They went and changed everything. So, that's the one record I won't sign.'
Bell's refusal to sign copies of 'Aggression Continuum' highlights the complex dynamics within the band and the impact of legal disputes on the creative process and album release.
