Vocalist & Voice Actor

The Voice Behind the Extreme

James McClellan Dorton is a powerhouse vocalist and voice actor, renowned for his commanding vocal range that spans from guttural growls to soaring melodic passages. Best known for his work with Ne Obliviscaris and Replacire, he has carved a distinct path in extreme metal, bringing both technical prowess and raw emotion to his performances. Beyond the stage, his voice acting career has led him to projects in gaming, with appearances in Doom Eternal, Dead by Daylight, and Metal Hellsinger, further showcasing his versatility and talent.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Dorton’s fascination with voice began in childhood. Singing in church choirs as a young boy, he was also drawn to sound manipulation, attempting to replicate dinosaur and Godzilla noises. This early interest in vocal experimentation naturally evolved when he discovered death metal in middle school. By high school, he had joined his first band, Scarred Horizon—an early stepping stone that set him on a path of relentless musical exploration. From there, he continued playing in local bands, honing his technique and refining his approach to extreme vocals.

Influences and Evolution

As a harsh vocalist, Dorton’s early influences included Shagrath (Dimmu Borgir), Glen Benton (Deicide), Mikael Åkerfeldt (Opeth), and Jens Kidman (Meshuggah). Over time, he expanded his approach, incorporating techniques learned from speech and voiceover training. This broadened his range and allowed him to experiment with new vocal textures beyond traditional metal styles. Today, he views performance as a transformative, even spiritual, experience—one where the rawest parts of himself are channeled into sound, continuously evolving with time.

A Voice Beyond Music: The World of Voice Acting

Dorton’s vocal abilities extend beyond metal. His deep, powerful voice has made him a sought-after talent in the voice acting world, particularly in the gaming industry. With credits in Doom Eternal, Dead by Daylight, and Metal Hellsinger, he brings characters to life with the same intensity he delivers on stage. His work in this realm demonstrates a mastery of vocal control, breathing new life into stories and worlds through sound.