Cult Status: This Band Will Rock Your Skin Off

There are many reasons that the metal band Cult Status is Panhandle Edge Magazine's Artist of the Month. Is it the crazy parties that last all night and result in stories that will last a lifetime? Could it be the tricks and pranks that are reminiscent of a fraternity hell week? Though these are tempting possibilities, there is only one reason that Cult Status graces the cover of our virgin issue as the spotlight artist. The music.

Whether you travel hundred of miles, or just around the corner to see singer Michael Compton, Darrel Daniels on lead guitar, Billy Clark on bass, and Corky McCollum ripping up the drums, you are going to get a killer show each and every time.

"Music is freedom. If it weren't for music, I'd be in prison or dead," Compton admitted.

Compton toured Europe as lead vocals for the band Shovelhead, with Daniels on lead guitar, for more than 10 years before making Panama City his home. McCollum also plays drums with many local jazz bands and owns his own graphic design company, Borderline GFX.

Cult Status is a band that has the talent and the drive that makes them an unstoppable force. Indeed, Compton seems to channel the very gods of rock 'n roll when he takes stage. They're not cocky. They're just that good.

Another reason that Cult Status stands out from the rest is Compton's overwhelming willingness to form friendships with his fans and other bands in the area. No matter how far a band travels to play with Cult Status, they are made to feel like they are welcome and part of the family. I have personally traveled to Birmingham, Tallahassee, and many spots here in Panama City, and there has never been a time when I felt uncomfortable with approaching any of the band members.