Shun the Raven is a rock band based out of Highpoint NC and was formed in 2015 and is making a big impact in the music scene in and around NC.

My first introduction to Shun the Raven was sort of by accident. I was set to photograph and cover Tremonti at the Cone Denim Entertainment Center in Greensobor NC. I have always been a fan of Mark Tremonti and was very excited to cover his bands set so I arrived to the venue early then normal. When I arrived there was a band on stage playing and instead of waiting in the lobby or going outside (which is what I normally do) I went inside and started listening to this band. The band had this strong heavy yet poetic sound then hearing Aaron Monks vocals on top of that kept you want to hear more. As the band continued on with each song I could see their excitement start to build and drummer Chad Hough stood up and raised his drum sticks in the air, this is when the crowd went wild and started screaming. The band sounded great and I really liked their sound. I took a few more pictures and watched the rest of their set. A few day’s later I was looking through some of the pictures and found a photo of Shun the Ravens drummer Chad Hough. I liked it so I edited that picture as well as a picture of lead singer Aaron Monk. I did not take many pictures of them because I was not there to cover them, I was there to cover Tremonti.

Downloaded from Chad Hough’s page. My original is on another drive - Chris Sturk

After editing the pictures I liked I posted them and tagged Shun the Raven not thinking much about it. A few day’s later I got a message from Chad (the drummer) and he loved the picture I took of him and he wanted to share it. This small interaction started a friendship of music and photography. During one of their live video events on Facebook where they talk and interact with their fans, they were talking about their new track called “Tale of two Tales”. I put a video of the song down below for your listening pleasure, just make sure you are prepared to be blown away when hearing it! Shun the Raven has continued to grow, recently opening for bands such as Saliva, Tremonti and they are opening up for the rock band “Cold” in the coming weeks of August. Shun the Raven has already made waves in the local rock scene and has played with some of the biggest rock band names in the business. Check out their website linked below and click on the bio, you will see what we are talking about. Keep your eye on this band rock fans, you will see rock music history in the making!

The band is not shy about creating complex chord progressions and mixing it with a powerful vocal performances. One thing about this band that sticks out even as they grow is their appreciation and kindness for their fans. Each band member is humble, kind and filled with love for their continually growing fan base. I even met a fan at one of their shows with the Shun the Raven name tattooed on her leg. Now that is a fan! The rock music scene today is hard to be in with so many bands coming out but Shun the Raven is unique and definitely sticks out above them all.

“Shun the Ravens sound is like a perfectly and beautifully orchestrated mosh pit of chaos with pearl white doves flying through it. This band not only sounds unique but they are also changing the rock and metal music scene with every note they write. I am so happy I got to see them win this award and I jumped out of my seat when I heard there name called. Great guys that create awesome music. ”

— Chris Sturk Lead Photographer and Editor

We want to congratulation Shun the Raven for there win at the Carolina Music Awards for Rock band of the year! This is a fan voted winning system and they definitely deserve this win and we are so happy we got to be their and share this moment with you. Congratulations Shun the Raven, we at f28 cannot wait to see your future successes and hear you Grammy award winning speeches. :)

STR Band Members:
Aaron Monk - vocals / guitar
Jairus Combs - bass
Cody Pike - guitar
Chad Hough - drums