Confessor is an American progressive doom metal band from Raleigh, North Carolina.

Forming in 1986 as a high school collaboration between friends Scott Jeffreys, Cary Rowells and Brian Shoaf, plus Brians brother Jim and additional guitarist Graham Fry, the bands goal was to try and create a unique sound. This utopian vision began to take shape with the recruitment of drummer Steve Shelton, to replace departing sticks-man Jim Shoaf, who brought a highly technical and complex style to the band.

As was the norm for the late 80s/early 90s underground metal scene, CONFESSOR spread their name via three demos, “The Secret” (1987), “Uncontrolled” (1988) and “Collapse” (1990). The extensive tape-trading scene gained the band quick recognition and their distinctive sound was featured on a number of compilations most notably Metal Blades “Metal Massacre X” and Peacevilles “Vile Vibes”. Earache stepped up and signed the band in 1991. By this time Graham Fry left to be replaced by the bands highly talented guitar tech Ivan Colon.

Confessors sound was very unique. Themes of desolation and unending despair led many to classify the band as a doom outfit but the truth was that no term could truly do the band justice. The lone album “Condemned” was carried along by a series of wails and tormented cries supported by technical, dexterous playing that tossed the listener one way, then another. Somehow it worked.