Sin Seer the Grinder Interview

 

Sin Seer is heavy metal group consisting of two individuals originating from the roots of south Texas. Established in 2015, Cameron McLendon and Trey Saucillo formed a new project after years of collaborations and exchanging production notes amongst one another. By taking their heavier influences and blending them with alternative melodies, the duo have been honing their craft by developing a unique sound that separates them from other heavier acts of today.


1. Introduce yourself and your band and tell us why we should listen to you.

-My name is Trey. I’m the Vocalist/Lyricist for Sin Seer.  You should listen to us because we’ve got them melodies, son.

2. What do you classify your sound as? Who do you tell people you sound like?

-Just Heavy Metal works for us. Like most bands, we have a wide range of influences. And all of that seeps through into the tones and the way we write.. I don’t tell anyone I sound like anybody. That’s up for the listener to decide rather. I try not to tell people too much of anything to be honest.

3. With digital music in today's world would you vote to keep or eliminate physical media?

-It’s heartbreaking to see that physical media is becoming more obsolete over time. Although vinyl sales have improved over the last decade, I think we can all agree record stores are a thing of the past. However, I’m all for keeping it if there is a way. There’s just something about having that copy in your hands, opening the booklet, absorbing all of the artwork and conceptions inspired, that you’re just not going to get by looking at a screen.

4. What is the reason you decided to be a musician and has that reason paid off?
   

-I’ve always wanted to do something with music ever since I was a kid. I think my first original dream was to be in a boy band when I was 5 years old. It was the 90’s. Sorry. But once I got older and got into more better/heavier music, I knew that this was what I wanted to do. I think we all get into this for different reasons. Based on mine, I’m not so sure if it has yet or not. I guess time will only tell on that. I guess if there’s ever a time when people talk more about what I do, rather who I am, then I think it will have.

5. How do you feel about females in metal getting special attention? Do you feel it is fair?

-If they can tear it up, then more power to them. I don’t really get why anyone would have an issue with it.

6. In the world climate, with hatred being at an all time high, and metal being “ angry” music… Do you think your music contributes to anger and hatred?

-I think by design, metal has always been about exposing those hostile feelings. In turn, people find it to be cathartic, therapeutic, and somewhat of a release. I’d imagine it’s healthier to take out your anger within the confines of a song, rather than taking it out on someone else or yourself. I feel like our music helps contribute to releasing that anger in a positive manner. What I write comes from a deep and dark place, and the music attributes which direction I will take it into. But the end result is always the same… We just want to get better.

7. Are you opposed to religious beliefs or politics being used in music?

-Art imitates life, and life imitates art. I think if it speaks to the current climate, it’s appropriate. More often the not, those two subject matters intertwine with so many others regardless. So it’s not unexpected, especially in the metal genre. And because religion and politics have such a heavy influence on the way that we live, it’s bound to pop up sooner rather than later.

8.We have dived into some pretty deep issues here… Do you think your music sends a message and if so what is it?

-I wouldn’t say so. There is no certain message or memo we’re trying to get out. We’re just fans of music and we enjoy songwriting. And we’re looking to see how far we can take it.

9.The market has changed and many bands believe that record labels are a thing of the past. With many labels now charging bands to “sign”, how do you think a band can make it in todays scene?

-I’ll let you know once I find out. I don’t think there is anyone out there who can really answer that. Ever since the business model has changed, no one has came up with a proper solution on how to benefit all parties. It’s difficult, I get it. But I see things shifting more to a DIY phase with bands becoming independent artists and taking booking, promoting, and producing into their own hands. We’re at a fortunate spot in time where we don’t need to rely on a label to get our music out to our audience anymore. And we can literally showcase it to the entire world.

10.Why with the thousands of options including Netflix , sporting events, and everything on demand… Why do you think people should take the time to listen to what you have to say in your music?

-I don’t expect them to. I think that’s what makes getting people’s attention these days so much more special. The attention span of the audience today, especially in the streaming world, is an uphill battle from start. No one’s going to go out of their way to praise you at all, unless they feel you truly deserve it. So it makes it all that much more special whenever they do.

11. How do you feel about pay to play? Do you think it is fair for a band to have to pay money to play?

-Well, it takes money to make money in any business, but this has always been a touchy subject. We all have our own opinions on the morality line and where it lays. And based off of that, is how everyone acts accordingly. But I’m not really sure where it is on this particular one for myself. But come on, let’s be real… if everyone cared about whether everything was fair or not, there’d probably be no one left doing this.

12. It is fact that you are the talent and the entertainment. Explain what you think is the most important key to success…
  

-Hunger… How bad do you want it? And how hard are you willing to work to get it? That’s everything. Talent is only just one aspect. There’s plenty of talented musicians out there, but only a certain few will push for their full potential. And even fewer will get a chance to actually make it happen.

13. In Country music and even in some cases, Rock music is written and performed by different people. Would your band perform a song written by someone else?

-Definitely. I’ve always been a fan of cover songs. I don’t think it’s what should define a band, but it’s always great to pay homage to those that paved the way before you. I know there’s a bit of a stigma with certain musicians and cover songs, but I’m not opposed to it.

14. If you are pro female in music, are you pro using sex to sell your music?

-I don’t really care about it to be honest. That type of thing never appealed to me. I want to jam your music, not check out your ass. There’s a time and place for such things, but it’s not what I look for when I listen to a band or go to watch a live show. What you have between your legs is irrelevant when it comes to songwriting and talent. Good is good. No matter what.

15. What is your view on the lawsuits against people saying lewd or unprofessional things to women or men and how does that affect an art described as sex drugs and rock n roll ?

-I don’t really pay attention to much, so I’ve missed out on most of that to be honest. But if it means that there’s less assholes in the industry, then it’s for the better. That ‘Rock Star’ persona and lifestyle, I feel like, is a thing of the past at this point. Now that’s not to say there isn’t anymore drugs or sex going on anymore. But still.. Records don’t sell anymore. Shoot, records are hardly being made anymore. Fewer people coming out to live shows. It’s just a different atmosphere today.

16. Okay, let’s lighten up a bit… What is your favorite band of all time and why?

-Korn is the reason I ever got into heavy music in the first place. They’re the reason I’m here at all today to be honest. I was really young when I first heard them. Too young, I suppose. But they had the hugest impact on me by far. That band got me through some of the toughest, loneliest times of my life. I’ll always be grateful to them for helping me discover my love of music..

17. What would you be doing if you were not in a band?

-Some kind of creative, I’m sure. I enjoy writing. I also enjoy film editing, recording, and mixing. So I’d imagine doing something along the lines of that. I just enjoy creating. I love sparking up ideas and seeing what they end up becoming. Especially when they turn out better than originally envisioned.

18. Do you have a favorite sports team?

-Sure don’t. Sorry. I’m not a sports guy.

19. If you could get on stage with anyone dead or alive who would it be?

-Probably someone alive.

20. This is your shot to let loose! Throw down your biggest complaint about the music biz…

-There’s already enough people complaining about it. I’ll leave it to them to find a solution.