Otep
- For the Ancient Egyptian name component, see hotep.
 |
 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (July 2008) |
Otep |
|---|
Otep (also spelled OTEP or OT3P) is an American nu metal band formed in 2000 in Los Angeles, California by Otep Shamaya. The current touring band is vocalist Otep Shamaya, guitarist Steven Barbola, drummer David Gentry, and bassist "Evil" J. McGuire.
History
The band OTEP was signed after only 4 shows, without a demo, strictly on the power of their live performance. A live performance that proved to be so impressive that Sharon Osbourne offered the unsigned act a spot on the 2001 Ozzfest tour. Since then OTEP has been on the festival a total of 3 times. To date, the band has released 3 full lengths, one EP and toured relentlessly in support of all 4 releases. In addition to this, the band continues to speak out on political issues like the Genocide in Darfur, Women's Rights, the support of Marriage Equality, the war in Congo, the support of President Obama, and are advocates for artists rights.
The singer and founder of the group, Otep Shamaya is well respected for her lyrical content and dramatic stage performances. She has also published 2 books of poetry, spoke at the Democratic National Convention in 2008, is an accomplished painter, and has been compared to Woody Guthrie and Zach de la Rocha for her political activism. Some of those groups that she supports, but not limited to are RAINN, Carbon Rally, PETA, & WSPA. In addition to lending her support to numerous groups, Otep has started the social networks All Shapes & Sizes, along with Girls Out Now.
On December 21, 2008, Otep's founder and front woman created a popular blog entitled, I'm Not A Monster. The site proved to be an instant success and since then is a reliable source for all things political and all things just in the world today.
On March 20, 2009, Otep entered the pages of cartoon history. Legendary comic strip Doonesbury referenced the band in their daily edition. Click here to view this momentous occasion.
Current line-up
- Otep Shamaya: vocals (2000-present)
- "Evil" J. McGuire: bass/backing vocals (2000-present)
- Steven Barbola: guitars (2008-present)
- David Gentry: drums (2008-present)
Session musicians
- Greg Wells: guitars & custom percussion on House of Secrets
- Joey Jordison: drums on House of Secrets
Discography
EP
- Jihad (2001)
- Wurd Becomes Flesh (2005)
Full Length
- Sevas Tra (2002)
- House of Secrets (2004)
- The Ascension (2007)