Kings Bounty has garnered significant praise from some of the most prominent rock bands worldwide, including New York Hardcore legends Cro-Mags and the iconic nu metal group Korn. This acclaim highlights the band's Alternative Metal sound, characterized by heavy guitar tones and catchy vocal hooks, placing them on the edgier side of radio-friendly metal. Since their inception last year, Kings Bounty has been generating buzz, including performances opening for Sevendust and P.O.D.
The band was formed in late 2015 when singer-songwriter Anthony “Q” Quiles (known for his work with Stillwell and The Arsonists) met guitarists Mike Dijan (formerly of Breakdown, Sai Nam, and Lavalette) and Steve Licata through mutual friends in the music community. Their shared passion for heavy music led them to record original material in Q’s home studio. “It became clear that our different musical backgrounds ignited a great chemical reaction after the first two demos," Dijan recalls. "We clicked instantly and knew the time was right to share our unique sound with the world,” adds Q.
Bassist Mike Kaufman later joined the band, contributing a robust groove to their sound. “Mike, or ‘Harris’ as we affectionately call him (a nod to Steve Harris of Iron Maiden), has a no-nonsense approach to his playing; he makes the heavy... HEAVY and he makes it move,” Steve explains.
To produce their debut album, Kings Bounty enlisted Chris Collier, known for his work with Korn, Stillwell, Prong, and KXM. Q, having previously collaborated with Collier on the Stillwell album "Raise It Up," felt confident in his abilities, stating, “Chris is an awesome producer; the proof is in the product, he’s the Wizard.”
Kings Bounty's sound is a fusion of various musical styles, resulting in a heavy alternative metal genre. Q draws inspiration from artists such as Josh Homme, Chris Cornell, and Nas, while Dijan cites influences like Jimmy Page, Jeff Buckley, and Dr. Know from Bad Brains. Steve is inspired by bands such as Dream Theater, Steve Vai, and Tool.
While the band was enthusiastic about their new musical direction, they were pleasantly surprised by the positive reception from other rock acts. Sonny from P.O.D remarked, “I can understand all the excitement; their stuff is really good.” Music industry veteran Howie Abrams noted, “In 2017, genuinely sincere new hard rock/metal bands are few and far between. Kings Bounty wears its style on its sleeve and delivers with craftsmanship, groove, crunch, and lyrics.”
Despite the recognition, the band remains focused on touring to share their music with a broader audience. With shows being scheduled and an album set for release this year, Dijan expressed their eagerness: “We’re psyched to get out there and play.”
Following a showcase at NYC's Bowery Electric and the release of their debut video for "Denial," Kings Bounty traveled to the West Coast in early March 2017 to perform with P.O.D. and Korn. Their appearance at the Vibe Lounge at the Morongo Resort & Casino in Cabazon, CA, marked P.O.D.'s first show of 2017, where they warmed up a crowd of 800 fans. Just two days later, Kings Bounty performed in front of 2,000 enthusiastic Korn fans at the new House of Blues in Anaheim, CA. These shows received unanimous acclaim for Kings Bounty's performance.
“What it comes down to for us,” Q reflects, “is that we really enjoy what we’re doing, and it resonates in the songs, as many people are already connecting with it.” Dijan concurs, stating, “It’s just the beginning, and we’ve met so many people who say, ‘This is the kind of music I love; it’s what’s missing in today’s heavy music scene.’ That gives us reassurance that we’re onto something truly good.”
