Downthesun - Downthesun (2002)

   Even though nu metal was definitely the genre that was created to make profit, and many bands did form in hope for collaborating in the new production area of the American music industry, not many have been hired and was put into the front lines. About 9-10 bands total had the highest level of commercial support that was probably needed the most for the complete success, but on the side of them there have been many others whose name was forgotten.
   Downthesun was one of them, and also one of the few nu metal bands who showed heavier influences than most. In lyrics they preferred more serious topics, such as social criticism, the more obscure aspects of life, or serial killers. So even though the band was fitting completely to the new wave, still it wasn't really related to the typical "rap rock for sk8er boiz" thing. They also operated with simple, basic themes, slow downs and the contrast creating switches to soft melodies/clear singing is also there, but in lower amount than at most others. Maybe this determined their fate, because it seemed like (or the big labels thought so) for the main audience a System of a Down was enough for deeper topics, and a Slipknot for heavier musical approach. Downthesun have made it only for one album, but it was one of the heaviest aspects of the once (for a short time) determining nu metal scene.