Fans of progressive metal and deathcore music may recognize Gareth Mason. He has sung and played in two bands, Slice The Cake and Novena, and pursued a solo project.
However, serious criminal allegations have tarnished his career and reputation, resulting in his removal from both bands.
This is a concise look at Gareth Mason’s life, achievements, and controversies.
Early Life and Musical Influences
Gareth Mason was born in England in 1989.
He grew up listening to various genres of music, such as rock, metal, classical, jazz, and pop.
Mason developed a passion for singing and writing lyrics at a young age.
He was influenced by artists such as Devin Townsend, Mike Patton, Björk, Freddie Mercury, and Maynard James Keenan.
Slice The Cake: A Breakthrough in Progressive Metal
Mason joined Slice The Cake 2010, an international progressive metal band that consisted of members from England, Sweden, and Australia.
The band was formed online and collaborated through the internet.
Mason was the vocalist and lyricist of the band and also played guitar on some tracks.
He was known for his versatile vocal style, ranging from harsh screams and growls to clean singing and spoken word.
Slice The Cake released four albums: Cleansed (2010), The Man With No Face (2012), Other Slices (2012), and Odyssey to the West (2016).
The band received critical acclaim for their complex and innovative music, especially for their last album, which was a concept album that blended metal with orchestral, folk, and ambient elements.
His album was praised for its epic storytelling, musical diversity, and emotional impact.
Novena: A New Venture in Symphonic Metal
Mason also joined Novena 2016, a British symphonic metal band that featured members from other prominent metal bands such as Haken, Sithu Aye, and Aeon Zen.
Gareth was the co-vocalist of the band, along with Ross Jennings.
He also contributed to the lyrics and melodies of the band.
Novena released their debut album, Eleventh Hour, in 2020.
Gareth’s album was well-received by fans and critics for its blend of progressive metal with symphonic, pop, and jazz influences.
The album showcased Mason’s vocal abilities in both harsh and clean singing.
Solo Project: A Personal Expression
Mason also worked on a solo project in 2021, which he described as a “personal expression” of his musical vision.
He launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for studio time, re-amping, vocal recording sessions, mixing, and travel costs.
Gareth collaborated with Faz from Damage Audio to create his own album.
However, the status of Mason’s solo project is unknown, as he has not updated his social media profiles or GoFundMe page since 2021.
Criminal Allegations: A Fall from Grace
Mason’s musical career came to an abrupt halt in 2022 when he was accused of serious criminal charges that have not been disclosed to the public.
Both Slice The Cake and Novena issued statements on their social media platforms to condemn Mason’s actions and to distance themselves from him.
They also revealed that they had no contact with Mason for almost a year.
Mason’s social media profiles have disappeared since then, and he has not made any public comment on the allegations.
His former fans have expressed their shock and disappointment at his behavior, and have called for justice for the victims.
Conclusion
Gareth Mason was once a rising star in the progressive metal scene, with his impressive vocal skills and lyrical creativity.
He was part of two successful bands, Slice The Cake and Novena, and also pursued a solo project.
However, his career and reputation were ruined by serious criminal allegations that led to his expulsion from both bands.
His current whereabouts and legal status are unknown.
