Listen ↗SINGLE / 2026 EXPLICIT
02 / THE STORY
Built from
lived experience.
Cartel Citizen is the independent alternative and progressive metal project of Australian songwriter and musician David Sheedy.
David writes the songs and lyrics, develops the arrangements, and performs the guitar and bass parts. Each track begins with original riffs, emotional intent and deliberate creative direction.
Created as a form of release and reconstruction, Cartel Citizen turns personal history into cinematic heavy music. Tight, syncopated riffs meet soaring vocals, dark melodic weight and a drive toward survival, growth and forward movement.
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Drawing from a dysfunctional upbringing and the lasting effects of domestic violence, emotional manipulation, distrust and betrayal, the songs carry deliberate narrative weight. They translate lived experiences into structured, intentional compositions.
Vocals and drums are produced using digital production tools, while the songwriting, guitar work, bass, arrangements and overall artistic vision remain David’s.
The purpose is simple: to create heavy music that helps people reflect, process what they have lived through and recognise their own resilience.
IN THE STUDIO / Ibanez 6- and 7-string guitars, 4- and 5-string bass guitars, D’Addario strings, Peavey amps and BOSS electronics.
