So, let me first make a confession: I don't like metal. I know exactly what you're saying to yourself: "Why is he writing an article on one of the weirdest and hardest metal bands around then?"

Well, my inquisitive reader, I would say to you that if any band could change my mind about metal music, it would be Fair to Midland. It's truly unfair to categorize them as heavy metal since the band uses elements of progressive rock and emo, and they even throw in some bluegrass elements every once in a while (a little fiddle and banjo never hurt anyone). Truly though, these rockers may be the cutting edge of rock 'n' roll.

The band began in Sulphur Springs, Texas (a good bit outside of Dallas), and in the words of guitarist Cliff Campbell, there just isn't a whole lot to do in Sulphur Springs besides make music. After fine-tuning their craft and making a name for themselves, they hit the club scene in Dallas and began playing clubs like Trees and Gypsy Tea Room (two of my favorite haunts, as a native Dallas boy). The band caught the eye of rock superstar Serj Tankian (of System of a Down fame) while performing a show in Los Angeles. After seeing them play again the next day, Tankian offered them a record deal on the spot with his private label, Serjical Strike Records (see what he did there?).

Fair to Midland's album "Fables From A Mayfly" is truly an eclectic collection of musical offerings. The single "Dance of the Manatee" is reminiscent of Tool with its heavy riffs and high-pitched vocals. However, the track "Walls of Jericho" is a bit like 30 Seconds to Mars mixed with music that harkens back to Rush. When I played the track "April Fools and Eggmen," I honestly could've mistaken it for a modern Black Sabbath. The Ozzy-like vocals mixed with solid rhythm and percussion sections make this one of the standout tracks on the album.

In summation, the album is, well, let's just say it's very different. As one longwinded music critic said, if bands like Rush, Pink Floyd, Dream Theatre, The Mars Volta, Gary Numan, Pantera, Tool, and 30 Seconds to Mars all got thrown in a blender, then Fair to Midland is what would come out.

If you're curious about the band, check out its MySpace or its impressive experimental first record. The band is also playing at the punk/metal haven Rocketown on Feb. 24 with its mentor, Serj Tankian, so check out this band for a truly new blend of heavy metal and genres you wouldn't expect. Fair to Midland could just be the intriguing new vision of the future of rock' n' roll.

Fair to Midland
Sunday, Feb. 24 at Rocketown
All ages, $15, 7 p.m.