Photo by Tamara Velazquez
Black Gaff just dropped a video for “Deck Meat” from their forthcoming record Heads, out March 15 via Knife Hit Records. Initially formed in 2020, Black Gaff were created under unusual circumstances and have a cool backstory. The gaff tape reference in the band’s name is intentional, as they are a group made of stagehands who also love to skate.
“Black Gaff formed as a project of me and a few of my union brothers that skate any chance we could break away from our long work hours and obligations, which can be tough in the stagehand lifestyle,” says project mastermind Patrick Forrest. “We talked so much about it that our fellow stagehands would ask us about Black Gaff well before we got anything together. Once COVID hit, the industry shut down overnight for us, so we suddenly had time to dig in.
“The project remains mostly anonymous besides myself, and out of sight as we usually are.”
Prior to this record, the band have a demo tape out via Give Praise Records and a self-released seven-inch EP. Their punk-brand-of-hardcore inspired sound is even grittier and sharper on this latest track.
“[We’re] stoked to share ‘Deck Meat’ from the Heads cassette.” Forrest adds. “Whether it’s stage decking or skateboard decks, being on the receiving end of having your shin and body mangled is no joke. Down tuned and drenched it feedback, ‘Deck Meat’ represents that pain.”
