Heavy metal musicians battle diversity to open Bolney recording studio

Dave McKinney, 27, and George Green, 28, set up Audio Empire on Brighton Road, Bolney.

The two are great friends, having played in bands together since they met in a guitar shop.

But their rise to success has not been plain sailing, as George fell ill with cancer in his early twenties, but has been in remission for six years.

Dave said: “We have been great friends since I moved to England in 2000, shared many stages together, seen some great highs, and devastating lows. This studio is our greatest achievement together yet.”

The rehearsal recording studio has hosted heavy and death metal bands such as Fleshrot, Mainly Madness, Murder Mile, Bleed Again and Dave’s band, Abhorrent Decimation.

Dave continued: “After opening to the public just two short weeks ago, we have begun breaking even, which is very encouraging in the current economic climate.”

Dave, who grew up in Northern Ireland, is an electrician, audio and acoustic engineer and multi-instrumentalist.

He is writing and recording Abhorrent Decimation’s debut album, who are preparing for more than 100 live performances in 2015.

Describing his new studio, Dave said: “We pride ourselves not just on our industry standard equipment, but also providing a personal service tailored to individual bands and musicians needs.

“The feedback we’ve received from our clients has been incredibly positive. We hope to provide our services to the area for many years to come.”

Abhorrent Decimation’s discography includes A Putrid Vision, Infected Celestial Utopia and End Of Days.

George, who grew up in Redhill, has been playing guitar for 16 years, and in bands since the age of 14.

He is a Muay Thai enthusiast, and often undertakes challenges for charity. He is running the Brighton Marathon for a teenage cancer trust in April.

“We plan on expanding Audio Empire once our main studio venture has turned the profit required,” Dave added.