Atomship

Atomship is an American alternative metal band from Ocean Springs, Mississippi, known primarily for their 2004 single "Pencil Fight." Originally formed in 2002 under the name Watership Down, they changed their name to Atomship due to copyright concerns related to their original moniker. The band’s lineup included vocalist Joey Culver, drummer Chad Kent, bassist Roy Williams, and guitarist Nathan Slade, who was the primary songwriter until his tragic death in 2009. Due to anxiety issues faced by the original vocalist Derek Pardoe, Joey Culver stepped in as the lead singer for their debut album, *The Crash of '47*, which was inspired by the famous Roswell incident and released in 2004. Despite facing challenges including lineup changes and the loss of Slade, Atomship’s music combines emotional depth with a powerful alternative metal sound.

After breaking up following Nathan Slade’s death, the band underwent several name and lineup changes—at times performing as AtomshipDown and Watership Down—before reforming again as Atomship in 2017 with Joey Culver on vocals and Jared Slade, Nathan’s brother, joining on guitar. Their more recent work includes releases like *If Infinity Bleeds* and *Gutter Crown*, showing their continued commitment to evolving within the alternative metal scene. Atomship’s story is marked by resilience and the personal trials of its members, which deeply influence their music's themes of struggle, loss, and perseverance. Their blend of heartfelt lyrics and dynamic metal arrangements keeps them a notable presence in their genre.

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