" After ‘City of Evil,’ the world was still kind of apprehensive about Avenged Sevenfold. They didn’t know if we were a serious band or just some kids trying to play really ambitious music with crazy guitar parts that would be here one minute and gone the next. "
- Zacky Vengeance

In the given statement, Zacky Vengeance reflects on the initial reception of his band, Avenged Sevenfold, following their album "City of Evil." He explains that at this point, there was uncertainty among listeners and critics about whether the band would continue to be taken seriously as musicians or if they were merely a fleeting sensation characterized by ambitious compositions and intricate guitar work.

Delving deeper into Zacky Vengeance's words, we can see that he is addressing the challenges faced by emerging bands in gaining long-term credibility within the music industry. The quote highlights the tension between artistic ambition and the need to prove oneself as a sustainable force in a competitive field. It also underscores the skepticism often directed at young artists who push boundaries with their innovative sound and style, questioning whether they will have staying power or fade into obscurity.

Zacky Vengeance is the rhythm guitarist, co-frontman, and one of the primary lyricists for Avenged Sevenfold, an American rock band known for its unique blend of metalcore, alternative metal, and other subgenres. His statement reflects not only his personal journey with the band but also the broader experiences of many up-and-coming musicians navigating the complexities of gaining recognition and maintaining artistic integrity in a demanding industry.