KatLawson

I’ve always been happy listening to all genres of music, but I think what drew me to metal was the intensity of the instrumentation—how intricate everything is, and how it all comes together as a complete masterpiece. I was in Grade 10 when I came across Lamb of God and their epic song “Omerta.” I still rock out to them today, along with many similar bands.

I’ve only attended three concerts—two country and one pop/rap—but the one that stood out most was the Zac Brown Band. Their music and vocals gave me chills and still do to this day. Even if you’re not into country, the flow and energy in their music bring me happiness. Their concert was epic. They gave such a grand performance and sounded as good as, if not better than, their albums. Seeing the people the concert gathered was also special: everyone wanted to sing along and be happy, and that’s not something you see every day.

I think listening to Sickness Within and watching their process of piecing together such a well-thought-out, crisp-sounding album would be my favourite. Most of all, though, I loved listening to the drummer—whom I’m lucky to call my husband—practice for hours. Man, that guy can drum!

Nu metal and metalcore are my go-to subgenres and the ones I listen to most. I love the grooves of nu metal and its little pop twist that makes you want to dance. With metalcore, it’s the nasty breakdowns, screamed vocals, and all the metal barks!

ANYTHING KORN! Myyyyyy gawd. “Y’all Want a Single”—I swear, put that on and my mood instantly changes!

That’s a tough one. There are so many bands I’d love to see! But I think Lamb of God would give me the complete metal experience. They would deliver a bone-shaking performance—a true metal one. They have a huge following and seem to get amazing energy from their fans, which would be insane to take in. Hearing those vocals and instruments live would be out of this world!

Sickness Within—haven’t heard of them!? What are you even doing! Just kidding, but check them out! They’re a metal band from Kitchener, Ontario, with four members: Nick Potwarka — vocals; Adam Schlitt — guitar; Kevin Paisley — bass; and Adam Lawson — drums and backing vocals. These guys are so talented. They thought this album through and refined it to perfection. They have such a dope sound, and their breakdowns and vocals are killer.

I may be biased since I’m their NUMBER ONE fan—and the sexy drummer’s wife—but I could listen to this album on repeat and still find something new to like and obsess over. Sickness Within was inspired by some of the greats, including Lamb of God, Unearth, Killswitch Engage, and many more. Their album is streaming on all listening platforms, so be sure to check it out. You’ll be hooked too. I think my favourite song on the album right now is “The Haunting of Hartwick Lane.”

I’ve modelled and still do some modelling. I started in 2016 when I did a few shoots with my good friend and photographer Shannon. A few other photographers contacted me for work, and I’ve since been featured in magazines internationally, including publications in Australia, Germany, the USA, and a few other countries. I’ve also appeared on magazine covers.

I began with high-fashion shoots and was signed with Gemini Modelling Agency from 2020 to 2023. I did some fun work with them and learned a lot. I’ve also done a few shoots with Blake, including a car shoot and a spooky shoot! Today, I still model for photographers, friends, and brands. My favourite part is playing dress-up, getting fully done up with hair and makeup, and creating a story through a photo. It’s like escaping this crazy little world for a moment!

Lamb of God — Ashes of the Wake. It’s heavy. It’s straight-up amazing.

I’m a dog momma to two German Shepherd pups. They’re my world, and everything revolves around them. If I’m not loving my dogs, I’m out on the golf course with my husband, rocking out to heavy tunes while playing such a peaceful sport. Balance, right?

I love being active. If I’m not golfing and walking the course, I’m hiking, biking, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Anything outdoors, and I’m game!

I want to thank Blake for reaching out back in the day to do a photoshoot with his car, for supporting my excitement for metal and the band Sickness Within, and for allowing me to talk about them and my love for metal music.

October is my favourite month because… FALL, and it’s spooky season.

Cheers, Metal Maidens. Y’all are beautiful! 🖤🤘🏻