| Born | Frank Tovey (September 8, 1956) |
| Label | |
| Genres | |
| Origin | |
| Occupation | Musician • composer • performer |
| Instruments | Synthesizer • drum machine • electronic instruments |
| Related acts | |
| Years active | 1977-2002 |
| Notable works |
200px|thumb|right|Fad Gadget in 1980
Fad Gadget, birth name Frank Tovey, is a prominent figure in the synthetic heavy metal genre in this alternate timeline. As a British musician and solo artist, Fad Gadget is known for his contributions to the genre alongside other influential acts such as Ultravox and Ministry.
Fad Gadget emerged in the late 1970s, drawing inspiration from the growing movement of German krautrock bands that combined experimental rock elements with electronic instrumentation. Unlike canonical heavy metal, which is rooted in blues and psychedelic rock influences, synthetic heavy metal takes inspiration from the German krautrock movement, synthpop, new wave, and punk rock.
The music of Fad Gadget, and the synthetic heavy metal genre as a whole, is characterized by its use of synthesizer, drum machine, and electronic music instruments rather than traditional guitar and bass sounds. This unique approach allows for a more diverse and experimental sound, appealing to a new generation of heavy metal fans.
Songwriting in synthetic heavy metal often directly addresses political and social issues, a departure from the fantasy and occult-themed lyrics of canonical heavy metal. The genre also has a strong emphasis on danceable beats and rhythms, borrowing concepts from disco and electronic dance music to create a unique sound.
Fad Gadget, along with other pioneering artists like Gary Numan, Ministry, Ultravox, Front Line Assembly, Skinny Puppy, and Nine Inch Nails, has had a significant impact on the development of synthetic heavy metal. Their innovations have helped shape various subgenres, including aggrotech, industrial metal, and synthwave metal.
In recent years, synthetic heavy metal has experienced a resurgence of interest, with numerous present-day bands drawing inspiration from its pioneers. Fad Gadget's work continues to be a significant influence on heavy metal music, reflecting a unique approach to the genre that sets it apart from canonical heavy metal.
Heavy metal, Heavy metal subculture, Krautrock, Synthesizer, Electronic music, Synthetic heavy metal, Industrial music, Punk rock
