Friday, November 30, 2018
SEVEN THORNS
Interview Def/Light
Thanks for your time. Tell us about your band and what you do for your band.
Hi. Our band - DEF / LIGHT. Now it seems to us that we are playing black metal with a serious influence of doom and death. I am a vocalist and lyricist in the band. To some extent, I answer for the concept and ideology.
When did you decide you wanted to be in a band?
A long time ago I was the founder of this band.
What is different about being a musician than you imagined?
It is difficult to imagine. I have been in the world of music since 1997, and my ideas and reality have long been merged together.
What gear do you use and why?
Different this and Shure, and Focusrite, Marshall - each meets their needs.
What music do you listen to that would surprise people?
People can be surprised with anything. From the unusual in my circle, I listen to Cypress Hill, Molotov, Muse. I listen to so many things that alone can surprise.
How do we find your music and merch to buy?
We are represented on our Metal Scrap label and in many other places. We will not be too sad if you download us on the torrent or listen to the soundcloud. This is not very good, but for us it is not too important.
How did you get a record deal? Or do you want a record deal or are you DIY?
We have contracts with good labels on past albums. We received good help from them. We hope that our next album, which is really cool, will find its publisher even faster. We have a good concept, big growth musically - we will find a new publisher.
What bands do people compare your music to?
I heard a lot of things that surprised me. The album that has not yet been released is compared to Dark Funeral - it is very flattering. They used to call both Carcass and Satyricon. I do not agree with such comparisons, but this is the business of our public.
Are you pro Spotify / streaming services ? Or do you think it hurts sales?
No. I do not have a qualified opinion about this.
What’s the ultimate goal for the band?
The goal is to convey our ideas to people, to become a way to convey emotions and thoughts. And the task to become quite famous, to improve their skills, to publish and make powerful shows.
Will we see you tour?
We had several, it seems, four European tours. A large number of tours in Ukraine
Who would you love to tour with?
With creative and good people, with masters of their craft. Names are important, but secondary.
What is your favorite song of yours and why?
At the moment it is Advent Sorrow - Pestilence Shall Come and Clouds - If These Walls Could Speak, but tomorrow it may be something else. Specific topics I like my mood.
Why should people take the time to listen to your band over the thousands of other bands?
We do everything honestly. We have a number of ideas, both musical and semantic, which will be close to many. Our new album will be comparable to the literary work that breathes music and music.
What are your favorite music websites labels podcast etc?
I watch and read a lot of things. I can not determine something better.
Is imagery important to you? Do you judge albums by the cover?
I do not appreciate the albums on the covers, but this is certainly an important part of creativity. I often imagine how music can look like.
If you could choose a cover song your band mates would hate what would it be?
I think it would be a cover on Placebo Protege Moi!
Is the record or live show more important?
I really love live shows, but without a quality record in the modern world, a team can claim only a very small niche.
Name 3 people dead or alive you would want to play your music for.
Lemmy, Aaron Steintrop, David Gilmore
Lemmy Ozzy Dio and Rob Halford in a cage match who wins?
Lemmy and Ozzy go to the finals. And would Lemmy win)
Hi. Our band - DEF / LIGHT. Now it seems to us that we are playing black metal with a serious influence of doom and death. I am a vocalist and lyricist in the band. To some extent, I answer for the concept and ideology.
When did you decide you wanted to be in a band?
A long time ago I was the founder of this band.
What is different about being a musician than you imagined?
It is difficult to imagine. I have been in the world of music since 1997, and my ideas and reality have long been merged together.
What gear do you use and why?
Different this and Shure, and Focusrite, Marshall - each meets their needs.
What music do you listen to that would surprise people?
People can be surprised with anything. From the unusual in my circle, I listen to Cypress Hill, Molotov, Muse. I listen to so many things that alone can surprise.
How do we find your music and merch to buy?
We are represented on our Metal Scrap label and in many other places. We will not be too sad if you download us on the torrent or listen to the soundcloud. This is not very good, but for us it is not too important.
How did you get a record deal? Or do you want a record deal or are you DIY?
We have contracts with good labels on past albums. We received good help from them. We hope that our next album, which is really cool, will find its publisher even faster. We have a good concept, big growth musically - we will find a new publisher.
What bands do people compare your music to?
I heard a lot of things that surprised me. The album that has not yet been released is compared to Dark Funeral - it is very flattering. They used to call both Carcass and Satyricon. I do not agree with such comparisons, but this is the business of our public.
Are you pro Spotify / streaming services ? Or do you think it hurts sales?
No. I do not have a qualified opinion about this.
What’s the ultimate goal for the band?
The goal is to convey our ideas to people, to become a way to convey emotions and thoughts. And the task to become quite famous, to improve their skills, to publish and make powerful shows.
Will we see you tour?
We had several, it seems, four European tours. A large number of tours in Ukraine
Who would you love to tour with?
With creative and good people, with masters of their craft. Names are important, but secondary.
What is your favorite song of yours and why?
At the moment it is Advent Sorrow - Pestilence Shall Come and Clouds - If These Walls Could Speak, but tomorrow it may be something else. Specific topics I like my mood.
Why should people take the time to listen to your band over the thousands of other bands?
We do everything honestly. We have a number of ideas, both musical and semantic, which will be close to many. Our new album will be comparable to the literary work that breathes music and music.
What are your favorite music websites labels podcast etc?
I watch and read a lot of things. I can not determine something better.
Is imagery important to you? Do you judge albums by the cover?
I do not appreciate the albums on the covers, but this is certainly an important part of creativity. I often imagine how music can look like.
If you could choose a cover song your band mates would hate what would it be?
I think it would be a cover on Placebo Protege Moi!
Is the record or live show more important?
I really love live shows, but without a quality record in the modern world, a team can claim only a very small niche.
Name 3 people dead or alive you would want to play your music for.
Lemmy, Aaron Steintrop, David Gilmore
Lemmy Ozzy Dio and Rob Halford in a cage match who wins?
Lemmy and Ozzy go to the finals. And would Lemmy win)
Acid Pussy - Grinder Interview
Acid Pussy consists of E – Drums/Lead Vocals, Ted - Bass/Drugs, AMA – Everything else.
E: I play the drums and say a few prayers during our songs.
T: I play Bass – and apparently grow a beard for each show.
Ama: ...everything else... sound apparently, cinematography, some photography, carry shit, but mainly I am obviously the eye candy this outfit had been so sorely lacking.
2. When did you decide you wanted to be in a band?
E: When Pastor Steve asked me to.
Ted: When our management promised free food and drinks.
Ama: how does anything happen in life? One day I woke up and I was involved with this project...
3. What is different about being a musician than you imagined?
E: It is very hard work. The creative part demands a lot of my time. Thankfully, Pastor Steve gives a guiding hand every now and again. Also, my bandmates are quite a handful! God bless them.
Ted: Finding out people don’t always use their real name when they become performers.
Ama: I always thought the coffee was gonna be better than it turned out to be...
4. What Gear do you use and why?
E: I use a Gretsch Catalina Club Rock Natural and the Lord’s blessings.
Ted: Musicman Sterling Custom made 4 String Bass, Chorus, Boss and Death Metal pedals. Shure SM57 mic, and a pack of smokes.
Ama: whatever tool is required to get the job done.
5. What music do you listen to that would surprise people?
E: Two of my favourite artistes are Stravinsky (Rite of Spring is fantastic, I get confused about my beliefs) and Righeira (No Tengo Dinero is a joyful anthem about less is more).
Ted: Acid Pussy
Ama: who is people? Don't I require more information about people to know what would surprise them? Actually, expanding on that thought, I suppose any answer is a valid answer, as anything could potentially be surprising to somebody... Can... can I start again? I... oh... no? But...
6. How do we find your Music and Merch to Buy?
E: We have Management dealing with that. She’s in The Philippines, I heard.
Ama: Hell if I know. Youtube?
Ted: One could send a Private message to our Facebook page, and see if our manager picks it up, we do have shirts and cassettes, including Walkmans for sale, but again, we are not sure if they are in Asia or Europe. If you really want some try to chase us down on the streets.
7. How did you get a record deal/Do you want one or DIY?
E: Most often deals are signed on my behalf. The only deal is with God, but not to get him to swap our places.
Ted: I have full authority to sign anything on behalf of the band, or at least, I think. Our Management don’t let us Do it for ourselves, so this one is super tricky? I was not really aware this interview would be this scientific, but the formula is: Ted - E - Ama + Beer & Pills = signed contracts: https://youtu.be/se7pSEMmcag
Ama: I don’t think I ever signed anything?
8. What bands do people compare your music to?
E: I hope Creed.
Ted: Someone once said: This is what happens if Frank Zappa makes love to Blondie (all of them) and they have a love child who basically starts making cakes, the exact smell of the second cake that child ever made is how we sound...or we sound like Creed, we do love Creed.
9. Are you on Spotify/streaming services, or do you think it hurts sales?
E: Yes, my dear bandmate Ted, God bless his soul, deals with Spotfiy. He insists it is the future of music sharing.
Ted: Due to my complicated relationship with Sweden I have chosen to just answer this question with a Spotify link to our first single “For Show”: https://open.spotify.com/album/0dq3P5u4Prx2d9w2HN1MwY
10. What is the ultimate goal for the band?
E: To open for Creed.
Ama: Mars
Ted: I was told it was supposed to be a TV show, but AMA (While producing our clips) was very firm that this resembles a Rock/Grunge band more than anything else. I was also promised we focused on important things, like getting me laid in Eastern Europe. Suddenly we had a few shows “wow” and all that was thrown out the window, now we focus on the music, the perfect so-called performance and various concepts. If you ask me, we lost our trail of what is important, but I can’t argue with management as I signed a contract (See question 7). In any case I'm not sure if I answered the question, but there it is the cold hard truth.
11. Will we see you tour?
E: Yes, next year in April we will be tackling several cities the German Federal Republic. I hope you all come to see us there.
Ted: We just came back from France, next year I have huge plans, Anyways we know for sure we will be doing Germany in April like E said, what he does not know is that we are invited to a very special 4/20 show in Hamburg with our friends: “Shice Squad”, this is a Brillant way to celebrate one of the holiest days of my religion. We are also planning a world tour, as soon as Scott Stap and Creed start touring again, we are still in touch with various medical experts to clear dear old Scott for the road.
12. Who would you love to Tour with?
E: Scott Stapp.
Ted: Im gonna say if any of the following bands are reading this, we are available to support you:
Guns N Roses, Pantera, Creed, The Wombats, Screaming Females, Portishead, Ryan Adams, Cream, and Simon & Garfunkel, the SoapGirls, Dirty Rats, and of course Flying Vincents.
13. What is your favourite song of yours and why?
E: The Right Sensation, since it tells the story about a man who has to struggle with himself in a world of temptation. Much like Adolf Hitler.
Ama: The fuck did you just say?
NOTE from Management: AP does not condone or support any Fascism or Nazism; LOVE Is their main message.
Ted: Life in Moscow – Because I get to sing like a real people and not this grungy stuff, but more like cool peoples like that singer of Finland's Symphonic Black Metallers “Bofo Kwo”. Not sure what the lead singer calls himself, but he is “off tha hook”.
14. Why should people take the time to listen to your band over thousands of other bands.
E: Our music relates to a broad spectrum of people, I believe. We have songs about inner struggle, outer peace, finding the Lord and keeping up appearances. Except Shotgun Marriage, which is written by Ted, that song I do not approve of. It depicts (carnal?) love between two human beings, no mention of the Lord at all.
Ted: Yeah dudes, I am still not sure, there were promises made, Riffs written, and some drums added. Then I listened to our live shows and recordings and I was like hrm these dudes are not bad, especially the bass player, and he is kind of hot & ugly at the same time. Well if you are anything like me you might also love it. I mean there is even a so called “Tribute Band” which covers our music regularly, they are pretty good. Look them up they are called "Kimmo Lindholm’s Crack Penis".
Ama: Because thousands of other bands are not AP! AcidPussy is not just a couple dudes who are testing their instruments, man. This is high concept stuff with influences as diverse as Camus and Miles Davis! New synergies are manufactured from both explicit and implicit meanings, dude! We are exploring the inaccuracies of our culture!
15. What are your favourite Music Websites, labels, Podcast etc.
E: I often listen to No Regrets Men’s Ministries Leadership podcasts, they refuel my energy when times are challenging, which they often are in Acid Preachy.
Ted: There is a lot but I am want to highlight the ones who supported us: The Justin Sane show, Basement tapes with Nick & Bootsy. Prim from AsiaLife Radio, Wes from Metal Cofee PR, Music Interview Magazine, Amnezia Music Management; especially Marie (The booking genious), Amsterdam Live, Patronaat, Rock Club the Cave, Virgine from Sedan Metal fest, PunkPrincess LISA, Bar Le troubadour& bar L’univers and Grinder of course.
16. Is imagery important to you? Do you judge albums by the cover?
E: Why are those grouped together, they are obviously separate questions. Imagery is very important to us. Visual imagery impregnates an idea instantly into the public’s brain. That makes them remember us and contribute to our goal of opening for Creed.
Ted: For all I care we can have an OWL on our Single/album cover. I promised management I won’t share my feelings about this, but I decided it is for the best of mankind: Album Covers where invented to get Illustrators and Photographer a way to scam bands out of monies and to be able to take naked pictures of me. It was invented out of need for imagery with music but due to a need to satisfy these Illustrators/Photographers huge EGOs. My music demands no imagery because it will prevent any person to imagine their own colors and shapes while listening to my master pieces. So yes, it is kinda a conspiracy and the Album covers are not just an innocent part of music history.
Ama: imagery is incredibly important. While I try not to judge albums by the cover, I very much enjoy if the artwork is informed by the record. If they give each other context and expand on each other’s ideas. I could spend days discovering new things in a well-crafted cover or booklet. Those are still a thing, right?
17. If you could choose a cover song your mates would hate, what would that be?
E: Mr. Bad Guy by Freddie Murphy.
Ted: Iggy Azelia & J-Lo – Big Booties
Ama: Rihanna – Diamonds or Rihanna – Man Down
18. Is the record or Live show more important.
E: I don’t want to Sophie’s choice our goal of opening for Creed.
Ted: Apparently recording the Acid Pussy album demands a whole lot of pre-work, like getting lost in the woods, try chew tobacco and master the art of waterboarding before we can start writing the album. Then we must read and write about our feelings and the aspects towards God and Satan. Well It is too much to describe but our lead singer has made his decision how this will happen, it should all play out pretty std after that. I write a bass riff and he play some drum beats, then stuff happens. It is all very productiony & a bunch of techincallitiesis but I am sure I won't have to bother until another 6 months about that. So, my answer is that any live show is the best.
Ama: you put too much focus on one, you lose out on the other. It’s about proper balance at the proper time.
19. Name 3 people dead or alive you would want to play music for.
E: Jesus.
Ted: we did play a show for only 3 people once, I want those three on our next show so I can play music for them again.
Ama: once?
20. Lemmy, Ozzy, Dio, and Rob Halford in a cage match, who wins?
E: Dio of course. The Lord will crush them.
Ted: Pretty much ME, I would win over all of yall. Peace out!
Ama: The audience
Thursday, November 29, 2018
MACHINES ON BLAST SIGN WITH METAL COFFEE PR
Started in 2013 by Industrial, metal, EBM, electro-rock enthusiast Evan Mitchell (Singer, Song Writer, Programmer) Machines on Blast's growth began shortly with the additions of recording/live guitarist Warren Adams in 2014. The addition of Adams to the band saw M.O.B morph into a darker, heavier, and wider entity than ever before with more opportunities and doors opening for them. Within the same year, the M.O.B. family grew with the addition of live drummer Chris Marshall.
2014 also was a busy year for M.O.B. in the music department as the band released their well received self-titled debut EP “Machines On Blast”. Alongside the EP, Machines on Blast went on to appear in the compilations “Digital Recovery 10.4” and “Elektro Villain: Volume 002”.
Machines on Blast showed no signs of slowing down, either, as Machines on Blast supported their self-titled EP with a brand new remix album featuring all sorts of independent artists including Chrome Corpse, Particle Son, Man Woman Machine, and FlammPunkt. Machines on Blast also recruited bass player Scott Vanhorn for the live line-up, and went on to perform alongside The Dreaming (Former Stabbing Westward), My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult, Genitorturers, Death Valley High, and Fractured Fairytales.
It was within 2015 that Machines on Blast continued to work on their next full length production Tin Man Empire which released in 2016. The album was well received with Hooded Stranger (www.hoodedstranger.com) stating Machines on Blast is, “...explosive and detonate their sound,” and Brutal Resonance (www.brutalresonance.com) praising the album as, “angry, loud, and brings back a 90s industrial sound.”
In late 2017, Machines on Blast welcomed guitarist Adrew Howington to the line up and has started production on their yet to be announced sophomore full length album. The band has also announced that a song of theirs will be released on the Australian horror film 'Bite Club' which is due out in 2018.
Machines on Blast has also been included on the following compilations:
Digital Recovery 10.4 (2014)
ELEKTRO VILLAIN: VOLUME 002 (2014)
Digital Recovery I II Volume II ,Tribute to Ric Laciak of RAS DVA (2015)
Coma Music Magazine "The Oontzcast Files" (2015)
Coma Music Magazine " Tainted Candy 2" (2015)
Don't mess with industrial - Fuck Cancer (2015)
Electronic Saviors Vol 4 premium edition (2016)
Brutal Resonance "Industrial Stomp-out" (2017)
Dark Tunes "Gothic Music Orgy Vol. 4" (2017)
Music for Mexico benefit (2017)
Electronic Saviors Vol 5 (2018)
Digital Recovery Sandy Kirti benefit (2018)
This is high impact for radio / press now!! request for interviews can be set up by emailing metalcoffefpr@gmail.com as well as request for music or any other info you need.
2014 also was a busy year for M.O.B. in the music department as the band released their well received self-titled debut EP “Machines On Blast”. Alongside the EP, Machines on Blast went on to appear in the compilations “Digital Recovery 10.4” and “Elektro Villain: Volume 002”.
Machines on Blast showed no signs of slowing down, either, as Machines on Blast supported their self-titled EP with a brand new remix album featuring all sorts of independent artists including Chrome Corpse, Particle Son, Man Woman Machine, and FlammPunkt. Machines on Blast also recruited bass player Scott Vanhorn for the live line-up, and went on to perform alongside The Dreaming (Former Stabbing Westward), My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult, Genitorturers, Death Valley High, and Fractured Fairytales.
In late 2017, Machines on Blast welcomed guitarist Adrew Howington to the line up and has started production on their yet to be announced sophomore full length album. The band has also announced that a song of theirs will be released on the Australian horror film 'Bite Club' which is due out in 2018.
Machines on Blast has also been included on the following compilations:
Digital Recovery 10.4 (2014)
ELEKTRO VILLAIN: VOLUME 002 (2014)
Digital Recovery I II Volume II ,Tribute to Ric Laciak of RAS DVA (2015)
Coma Music Magazine "The Oontzcast Files" (2015)
Coma Music Magazine " Tainted Candy 2" (2015)
Don't mess with industrial - Fuck Cancer (2015)
Electronic Saviors Vol 4 premium edition (2016)
Brutal Resonance "Industrial Stomp-out" (2017)
Dark Tunes "Gothic Music Orgy Vol. 4" (2017)
Music for Mexico benefit (2017)
Electronic Saviors Vol 5 (2018)
Digital Recovery Sandy Kirti benefit (2018)
BLOOD AND THUNDER THE GRINDER INTERVIEW
2. Who does the majority of the writing? Is it a group thing or does someone handle the writing duties?
The writing is kind of split up into two phases - writing the instrumentals, and adding lyrics and vocals. We’re always refining our writing process, but lately the process has been that Major writes the bulk of the instrumentals first, and Ryan writes the vocals on top of that later on. Pretty much anybody in the band can contribute ideas though, so it just depends on the song. We start by programming the entire song in MIDI - drums, guitars, bass, and keys. This works great because we can tweak the song and make changes really easily, and it gives everybody a way to learn their parts note for note. Once we are done, we even use the MIDI drums in the studio to record along to before replacing them with acoustic drums.
3. Where is the band based out of ?
North of Seattle in Arlington, WA, USA.
4. What bands do you use to explain to people what you sound like?
We’d usually mention bands like Children of Bodom, The Black Dahlia Murder, Kalmah, Nekrogoblikon, Wintersun, and Mors Principium Est.
5. Can we buy anything from you Cd's shirts etc and where can we buy them?
Definitely! We’ve got a whole set of new merch for The Necromancer’s Cantos. We’ve got shirts, hoodies, CDs, and even shot glasses. You can get all that stuff at www.bloodandthundermetal.bigcartel.com. ( I WOULD LIKE A 3 X PLEASE )
6. Do you have studio time lined up anything new coming soon?
Not right now. Since we just released an album, we are focusing on promoting that and playing shows. We’re already working on a bunch of new material though, so a new album will definitely be happening!
7. Have you ever been on tour? If so where and with who?
Yeah, we’ve done some smaller local tours around the West Coast and the surrounding area. Most of these have been supported by other great local bands like The Devils of Loudun.
8. What is your favorite band? Who are the bands who influenced you?
Ryan: Children of Bodom, Megadeth, Rush, Kalmah, Norther
Nick: Carach Angren, Nile, Cerebral Bore, Rush, T.M. Stevens
Damian: Circa Survive, As Blood Runs Black, She Must Burn, Born of Osiris
Major: Eluveitie is definitely my favorite band. Lately my writing influences have been Aether Realm, Omnium Gatherum, and Euphoreon.
Michael: Ozzy Osbourne, Iron Maiden, King Diamond, Black Sabbath, In Flames.
9. Do you have a website? And do I have to verify that I am 18 to enter it?
www.bloodandthundermetal.com. No age limit :)
10. What about your music do you want people to remember?
The feeling of adventure, discovery, and mystery. Like when you read a really good book or play a video game and you’re just swept up in the story. That kind of transporting experience where you escape to another world when you listen to the song. That’s hopefully what people come away with.
11. Name a person who is integral to your band that nobody knows about, what person drives your band like they are part of the band? Who is the extra member ?
Steven “The Werewolf” Krogh. Absolutely crucial to the live performance when called upon, and always down to run the merch booth or haul gear for us when needed, no questions asked. Steven highly prides himself on having every single merch item we offer, on top of being the only one person to have a Blood and Thunder tattoo. So be on the lookout for him at a future show!
12. Tell us about your live rig and equipment.
Ryan: Right now i have a PDP Pacific drum kit with a black sparkle finish. I'm also a proud endorsed artist at Saluda cymbals, and I use custom hand hammered Diamond Brilliant series cymbals. Im also a proud lifelong user of ProMark sticks.
Nick: I exclusively use Dingwall basses. I have an NG3 6 string on the way, and a Z3 6 string custom. I play my basses through Mesa/Boogie bass amps and cabs. I use the M9 carbine head unit, and two 2*12 cabinets, as well as a Darkglass Electronics b7k pedal.
Damian: Currently my main setup is the Korg, 61 key KROSS1, and the Korg RK100s keytar.
Major: My two main guitars right now are my Schecter KM6 and my Jackson SL2Q. I run those through an Engl Powerball V1, and a Mesa 4x12 cab. I use a couple pedals, the main one being a Horizon Devices Precision Drive.
Michael: My go to are Caparison guitars, specifically the Dellinger model. I use the EVH 5150III 50W head with matching EVH 2x12 Cabs. Less is more to me as I use only a Maxon 808 for a small boost using the Blue channel on the EVH as well as and ISP decimator to cut out excess noise.
13. What is your musical guilty pleasure?
Ryan: ABBA
Nick: The B-52’s
Damian: LIMP BIZKIT
Major: Marianas Trench
Michael: Kenny G
14. If you could custom build a tour who would it be with?
Ryan: Mors Principium Est, The Black Dahlia Murder, Nekrogoblikon, Blood and Thunder
Nick: Carach Angren, Omnium Gatherum, Kalmah, Blood and Thunder
Damian: The Black Dahlia Murder, Omnium Gatherum, Born of Osiris, As Blood Runs Black, Blood and Thunder
Major: Ensiferum, Children of Bodom, Wintersun, and Blood and Thunder
Michael: Soilwork, In Flames, Children of Bodom, Blood and Thunder
15. Message to the fans?
To any one of you who have supported us by coming out to a show, buying some merch, helping us load gear, buying us beer, weed, junk food, or generally hanging out with us, THANK YOU. It's your undying desire for more music in the greater Pacific Northwest that keeps us doing what we are doing. Keep going out to shows, keep buying merch from your favorite bands, keep supporting the local scene anyway you can and keep having fun with it all! That's why we write music and perform, and that's why we keep looking for the next show, the FANS.
16. If you could bring back one metal legend who would it be?
Given all the tragic losses we keep seeing, we would have to cast our vote for the great Warrel Dane.
17. Last but not least , Zeppelin or The Who
Ryan: Zeppelin
Nick: Rush
Damian: Neither
Major: Zeppelin
Michael: Zeppelin
ONE STEP BEYOND THE GRINDER INTERVIEW
1. Thanks for your time. Tell us about your band and what you do for your band.
My name is Matt and I'm bassist, guitarist, backing vocalist, songwriter etc for One Step Beyond. We hail from Adelaide, Australia and we play a unique and eclectic take on extreme metal.
2. When did you decide you wanted to be in a band?
In my late teens. I was in love with music from early childhood, but at around 17 or so the band life started to look pretty appealing. I saw some friends play some pretty decent stuff together and thought if they could do it then I could too.
3. What is different about being a musician than you imagined?
Oh man so many things. The climate has changed so much. The potential for music sales are absolutely negligible compared to when we started. It seems constant touring is the only way to pay the rent as an artist these days and we don't currently tour.....
4. What gear do you use and why?
Engl for guitar amp and ampeg for bass for the most part. Great products. I still use a 20 year old Ibanez soundgear for bass, thin necks, fast action, versatile instruments. My guitar is a Musicman Stingray from the mid 80's. Pale wood grain finish. Very un metal guitar but I've corrupted it with some EMG pick ups.
5. What music do you listen to that would surprise people?
Man I'm 100% a music lover. I don't segregate genres. I'm as comfortable with Autopsy or Suffocation as I am with James Brown. I love so much of 80's and 90's hip hop, Detroit techno, everything from Lee Perry to Sisters of Mercy. The last five albums I've purchased were by Sigh, Night Flight Orchestra, Miles Davis, Recloose and Worship. I try to find things to like in as much music as possible.
6. How do we find your music and merch to buy?
onestepbeyond1.bandcamp.com is direct from us, or message via facebook. Otherwise you can cop from Amazon, Aural, Spotify, Tidal and all the usual suspects.
7. How did you get a record deal?
We just ship out previews of our album to labels that we think might be able to do something positive with us and choose the best offer we receive in return.
8. What bands do people compare your music to?
Different parts get compared to different bands. Sometimes Macabre, sometimes Primus, sometimes Bloodduster, Iron Maiden, Suicidal Tendencies. The list could go on and on. We try to have every song have it's own identity more-so than most extreme metal bands, so the list of comparisons would be very long.
9. Are you pro Spotify / streaming services ? Or do you think it hurts sales?
Both yes. Unquestionably it hurts sales, there's countless statistics out there proving it. Cd sales have dropped dramatically. Vinyl has increased in popularity in comparison to a decade ago, but it's still a marginal amount overall. So many kids these days don't even have a means to play a Cd or record. They're no longer integral parts of households and I don't think that will change. The music industry has tried hard to commodify digital distribution, but it's missed the boat well and truly.
On the plus side, streaming services get your music to a different listener and that can only be a good thing.
10. What’s the ultimate goal for the band?
To continue exorcising our demons through music and hopefully connect with an increasing number of like minded folk.
11. Will we see you tour?
Hopefully. To fly to America or Europe from Australia is expensive. If someone helps us then yes you will see us. We absolutely love visiting America and hopefully we can do it as a band soon.
12. Who would you love to tour with?
Napalm Death. One of the hardest working bands in the business and one of my personal favourites for many many years.
13. What is your favorite song of yours and why?
Well it's like the favourite child analogy right? I like things about them all. Maybe the song 'Good world gone bad' on The Music of Chance. I think it's such a unique song. Really unusual in good ways. Also 'Isolde', the closing track from In the Shadow of the Beast. There's some real drama in that song.
14. Why should people take the time to listen to your band over the thousands of other bands?
We do things that other bands don't. We blend styles and genres in uncommon ways. We don't pro tools our albums to bits, there's still some honest playing on them where possible. On a personal level we try to be respectful dudes. We understand that time holds the ultimate value and are genuinely chuffed that people would spend any of it listening to our indulgences.
15. What are your favorite music websites labels podcast etc?
My most regularly visited would be The Quietus, Last rites, Angry metal guy, No clean singing, Rap reviews.com, Resident Advisor, Pitchfork, Pop Matters, Invisible Oranges, Teeth of the Divine, Decibel and more. For labels, there's plenty out there stringing quality releases together, but for this last year or two it's more bands than labels that have appealed to me. For podcasts, I only really listen to ones pertaining to Liverpool FC, cult cinema and beer/brewing these days.
16. Is imagery important to you? Do you judge albums by the cover?
Occasionally. I love a great album cover and it can often be the difference for me being happy with a digital copy or buying a physical copy of an album. I don't so much judge albums by their covers, but I do let covers create expectations for me. If the music inside doesn't reflect those expectations then I'm flexible enough to adjust my expectations and take the music on its own merits.
I'm not so much into band imagery, I like honesty more than a manufactured image, bands that just dress in their day to day clothes feel more honest to me. That said, some bands make up some great imagery, I think Ghost have some great costumes for example. The vocalist from Portal looked brilliant with that mad box on his head. I liked the Mgla anonymity thing too.
17. If you could choose a cover song your band mates would hate what would it be?
Something by Infectious grooves. It would give me an excuse to abuse my Wah pedal and our vocalist Justin is not too keen on Wah.
18. Is the record or live show more important?
Record definitely for us. For metal in general I think. Most styles of metal are about rehearsal and replication. The songs don't change. Live shows are essentially louder, messier versions of the album tracks. Nothing new happens. I love the energy of live shows, but recordings are for life.
19. Name 3 people dead or alive you would want to play your music for.
Tough question! I'd set my sights high and have them be people who created things that were hugely influential for me, but I could never presume they'd want to hear my music, so I'd feel like I was imposing on them. Hah. Couldn't do it!
20. Lemmy Ozzy Dio and Rob Halford in a cage match who wins?
With all still alive?
Lemmy definitely. Could imagine he'd be tougher, dirtier, meaner than the rest. All knees and knuckles. They wouldn't stand a chance.
My name is Matt and I'm bassist, guitarist, backing vocalist, songwriter etc for One Step Beyond. We hail from Adelaide, Australia and we play a unique and eclectic take on extreme metal.
2. When did you decide you wanted to be in a band?
In my late teens. I was in love with music from early childhood, but at around 17 or so the band life started to look pretty appealing. I saw some friends play some pretty decent stuff together and thought if they could do it then I could too.
3. What is different about being a musician than you imagined?
Oh man so many things. The climate has changed so much. The potential for music sales are absolutely negligible compared to when we started. It seems constant touring is the only way to pay the rent as an artist these days and we don't currently tour.....
4. What gear do you use and why?
Engl for guitar amp and ampeg for bass for the most part. Great products. I still use a 20 year old Ibanez soundgear for bass, thin necks, fast action, versatile instruments. My guitar is a Musicman Stingray from the mid 80's. Pale wood grain finish. Very un metal guitar but I've corrupted it with some EMG pick ups.
5. What music do you listen to that would surprise people?
Man I'm 100% a music lover. I don't segregate genres. I'm as comfortable with Autopsy or Suffocation as I am with James Brown. I love so much of 80's and 90's hip hop, Detroit techno, everything from Lee Perry to Sisters of Mercy. The last five albums I've purchased were by Sigh, Night Flight Orchestra, Miles Davis, Recloose and Worship. I try to find things to like in as much music as possible.
6. How do we find your music and merch to buy?
onestepbeyond1.bandcamp.com is direct from us, or message via facebook. Otherwise you can cop from Amazon, Aural, Spotify, Tidal and all the usual suspects.
7. How did you get a record deal?
We just ship out previews of our album to labels that we think might be able to do something positive with us and choose the best offer we receive in return.
8. What bands do people compare your music to?
Different parts get compared to different bands. Sometimes Macabre, sometimes Primus, sometimes Bloodduster, Iron Maiden, Suicidal Tendencies. The list could go on and on. We try to have every song have it's own identity more-so than most extreme metal bands, so the list of comparisons would be very long.
9. Are you pro Spotify / streaming services ? Or do you think it hurts sales?
Both yes. Unquestionably it hurts sales, there's countless statistics out there proving it. Cd sales have dropped dramatically. Vinyl has increased in popularity in comparison to a decade ago, but it's still a marginal amount overall. So many kids these days don't even have a means to play a Cd or record. They're no longer integral parts of households and I don't think that will change. The music industry has tried hard to commodify digital distribution, but it's missed the boat well and truly.
On the plus side, streaming services get your music to a different listener and that can only be a good thing.
10. What’s the ultimate goal for the band?
To continue exorcising our demons through music and hopefully connect with an increasing number of like minded folk.
11. Will we see you tour?
Hopefully. To fly to America or Europe from Australia is expensive. If someone helps us then yes you will see us. We absolutely love visiting America and hopefully we can do it as a band soon.
12. Who would you love to tour with?
Napalm Death. One of the hardest working bands in the business and one of my personal favourites for many many years.
13. What is your favorite song of yours and why?
Well it's like the favourite child analogy right? I like things about them all. Maybe the song 'Good world gone bad' on The Music of Chance. I think it's such a unique song. Really unusual in good ways. Also 'Isolde', the closing track from In the Shadow of the Beast. There's some real drama in that song.
14. Why should people take the time to listen to your band over the thousands of other bands?
We do things that other bands don't. We blend styles and genres in uncommon ways. We don't pro tools our albums to bits, there's still some honest playing on them where possible. On a personal level we try to be respectful dudes. We understand that time holds the ultimate value and are genuinely chuffed that people would spend any of it listening to our indulgences.
15. What are your favorite music websites labels podcast etc?
My most regularly visited would be The Quietus, Last rites, Angry metal guy, No clean singing, Rap reviews.com, Resident Advisor, Pitchfork, Pop Matters, Invisible Oranges, Teeth of the Divine, Decibel and more. For labels, there's plenty out there stringing quality releases together, but for this last year or two it's more bands than labels that have appealed to me. For podcasts, I only really listen to ones pertaining to Liverpool FC, cult cinema and beer/brewing these days.
16. Is imagery important to you? Do you judge albums by the cover?
Occasionally. I love a great album cover and it can often be the difference for me being happy with a digital copy or buying a physical copy of an album. I don't so much judge albums by their covers, but I do let covers create expectations for me. If the music inside doesn't reflect those expectations then I'm flexible enough to adjust my expectations and take the music on its own merits.
I'm not so much into band imagery, I like honesty more than a manufactured image, bands that just dress in their day to day clothes feel more honest to me. That said, some bands make up some great imagery, I think Ghost have some great costumes for example. The vocalist from Portal looked brilliant with that mad box on his head. I liked the Mgla anonymity thing too.
17. If you could choose a cover song your band mates would hate what would it be?
Something by Infectious grooves. It would give me an excuse to abuse my Wah pedal and our vocalist Justin is not too keen on Wah.
18. Is the record or live show more important?
Record definitely for us. For metal in general I think. Most styles of metal are about rehearsal and replication. The songs don't change. Live shows are essentially louder, messier versions of the album tracks. Nothing new happens. I love the energy of live shows, but recordings are for life.
19. Name 3 people dead or alive you would want to play your music for.
Tough question! I'd set my sights high and have them be people who created things that were hugely influential for me, but I could never presume they'd want to hear my music, so I'd feel like I was imposing on them. Hah. Couldn't do it!
20. Lemmy Ozzy Dio and Rob Halford in a cage match who wins?
With all still alive?
Lemmy definitely. Could imagine he'd be tougher, dirtier, meaner than the rest. All knees and knuckles. They wouldn't stand a chance.
MIDWEST VOLTAGE , WHY? BECAUSE THEY KICK ASS
Forming in early 2013, Matt Smith and twin brothers Hugh Rose and Andrew Rose make up indie-rock trio Midwest Voltage. Centered in La Crosse, Wisconsin, their fresh new sound of explosive progressive rock mixed with spacey riffs, sets them aside from the local music scene.
Smith and the Rose brothers have been playing in local bands in the La Crosse area for over 2 decades, and have crafted their original sound out of the love of simple, catchy, and tight riffs. Now all in their mid 30's, the band draws inspiration from early 1990's rock and post punk and are a well-oiled, ass-kicking machine.
Their self-produced e.p. CD 'DEMO' was released in the summer of 2015 and has reached many hands since its debut, and has gotten positive reviews and from the Midwest area.
They have also released a 'Self-titled' e.p. in April of 2017 that can be downloaded @ http://MidwestVoltage.bandcamp.com
They have played many clubs and bars in the Wisconsin/Minnesota area as well as festivals in Western Wisconsin. Be sure to catch their live, high energy showcase on stage, as they will not disappoint.
Album-
http://MidwestVoltage.bandcamp.com
'Turning Tides' music video-
Smith and the Rose brothers have been playing in local bands in the La Crosse area for over 2 decades, and have crafted their original sound out of the love of simple, catchy, and tight riffs. Now all in their mid 30's, the band draws inspiration from early 1990's rock and post punk and are a well-oiled, ass-kicking machine.
Their self-produced e.p. CD 'DEMO' was released in the summer of 2015 and has reached many hands since its debut, and has gotten positive reviews and from the Midwest area.
They have also released a 'Self-titled' e.p. in April of 2017 that can be downloaded @ http://MidwestVoltage.bandcamp.com
They have played many clubs and bars in the Wisconsin/Minnesota area as well as festivals in Western Wisconsin. Be sure to catch their live, high energy showcase on stage, as they will not disappoint.
Album-
http://MidwestVoltage.bandcamp.com
'Turning Tides' music video-
LOUNA Design A New Structure Looking Into ‘Panopticon’
The excellent Russian alternative punk rock band Louna return with their second English language album full of melodic, fired-up and engaging tracks that bring you all the way into the bands sonic foundations and strong worldview.
Panopticon features 10 of the best songs from their We Are Louna and Brave New World Russian albums, with text adapted into English by Travis Leake in collaboration with Dan Korneff (Paramore, Papa Roach, etc.). Each song on the album has been updated with additional instrumentation and have been remixed and remastered to reflect the band’s truest vision for each song after having performed them live to over one hundred thousand fans across Russia and Eastern Europe. New live performance effects by T.A.T.U. producer Ivan Killar have been integrated into the album versions of Louna’s songs for the first time ever, and will provide listeners with a truly unparalleled listening experience.
Louna is one of the most successful and well-known modern rock bands in Russia. Their current tour of over 30 cities which is currently nearing completion sold out nearly every venue, their Moscow show having sold out within days. Louna is the only currently existing rock band from Russia to have toured in the US with any major international artist. Their 2013 tour in support of The Pretty Reckless took the band to 26 different cities and resulted in universal praise by American rock journalists and fans.
Note: The Panopticon is a type of institutional building and a system of control designed by the English philosopher and social theorist Jeremy Bentham in the late 18th century. Wikipedia
Track listing:
01. Shadow Kingdoms | 02. Spring | 03. Homeland | 04. Searching | 05. 1984 | 06. Hearts Of Steel | 07. Rise | 08. With You | 09. Warrior’s Way | 10. Brave New World
Track 1 – Feat. Craig Mabbit and Kevin Thrasher of Escape The Fate
Additional instrumentation by Ivan Killar
Mastered by Alexey Kuznetsov at Astalavista Studio, Moscow, Russia
Produced by Travis Leake
Cover art by Andrey Uvarov
Louna are:
Lousine Gevorkian – Vocals | Vitaly Demidenko – Bass | Rouben Kazariyan – Guitar | Sergey Ponkratiev – Guitar | Leonid “Pilot” Kinzbursky – Drums
Panopticon features 10 of the best songs from their We Are Louna and Brave New World Russian albums, with text adapted into English by Travis Leake in collaboration with Dan Korneff (Paramore, Papa Roach, etc.). Each song on the album has been updated with additional instrumentation and have been remixed and remastered to reflect the band’s truest vision for each song after having performed them live to over one hundred thousand fans across Russia and Eastern Europe. New live performance effects by T.A.T.U. producer Ivan Killar have been integrated into the album versions of Louna’s songs for the first time ever, and will provide listeners with a truly unparalleled listening experience.
Louna is one of the most successful and well-known modern rock bands in Russia. Their current tour of over 30 cities which is currently nearing completion sold out nearly every venue, their Moscow show having sold out within days. Louna is the only currently existing rock band from Russia to have toured in the US with any major international artist. Their 2013 tour in support of The Pretty Reckless took the band to 26 different cities and resulted in universal praise by American rock journalists and fans.
Note: The Panopticon is a type of institutional building and a system of control designed by the English philosopher and social theorist Jeremy Bentham in the late 18th century. Wikipedia
Track listing:
01. Shadow Kingdoms | 02. Spring | 03. Homeland | 04. Searching | 05. 1984 | 06. Hearts Of Steel | 07. Rise | 08. With You | 09. Warrior’s Way | 10. Brave New World
Track 1 – Feat. Craig Mabbit and Kevin Thrasher of Escape The Fate
Additional instrumentation by Ivan Killar
Mastered by Alexey Kuznetsov at Astalavista Studio, Moscow, Russia
Produced by Travis Leake
Cover art by Andrey Uvarov
Louna are:
Lousine Gevorkian – Vocals | Vitaly Demidenko – Bass | Rouben Kazariyan – Guitar | Sergey Ponkratiev – Guitar | Leonid “Pilot” Kinzbursky – Drums
Tuesday, November 27, 2018
CIRCLE STORY
Line-up: Igor Arbuzov – guitars / vocals; Anton Golovatov – guitars / keys; Dmitry Pronin – bass; Antonio Aronne – drums.
Discography: "Uncovered Fears" CD & Digital; 2018; Another Side Records; "Mind Your Words" Digital EP; 2017; self-released.
https://circlestory.bandcamp.com
https://facebook.com/circlestoryofficial
https://www.instagram.com/circle.story
https://vk.com/circlestory
Monday, November 26, 2018
EVAN VAST THE GRINDER INTERVIEW
Even Vast formed in 1998 and have released three albums and three mcd/singles.
After a pause of 9 years, Even Vast have returned now based in Nottingham (England) with a new line up and a new sludge/ doom sound. I am the guitar player, the mastering engineer and the only original member of the band.
2 When did you decide you wanted to be in a band?
I was interested in being in a band from around 15 years of age. I started in 1992 with the hardcore band Antenati and after that Chaos And Technocracy (crossover thrash/core). Then in 1998 Even vast was born.
3 What is different about being a musician than you imagined?
The main difficulty is not just to be a musician, but also a manager, booking agent etc… it is a full time job. Much more time consuming than I imagined.
4 What gear do you use and why?
I use Matamp GT1 and Matamp 4x12 cab plus various pedals and Hagstrom guitar with Zombie Dust pick ups, this is the best combination for the Doomy sound of Even Vast.
5 What music do you listen to that would surprise people?
I am a massive fan of Dead Can Dance, Morrissey, Interpol, all of which are not the heavy sounds which people expect me to listen to.
6 How do we find your music and merch to buy?
Music through internet (digital) and also on cd via various mail-order/shops/labels, merchandise only at our gigs.
7 How did you get a record deal?
Just sending demo’s to various labels.. Every album of Even Vast has a different label, I hope one day to settle with a good label.
8 What bands do people compare your music to?
With the new single “Inside Your Head” I have heard some people compare Even Vast to Corrosion Of Conformity and Alice In Chains (Obese version) :-)
9 Are you pro Spotify/streaming services? Or do you think it hurts sales?
I’m absolutely pro Spotify, it is really good now and is possible to listen to an album before buying.
10 What’s the ultimate goal for the band?
To have more opportunities to play live and do some festivals.
11 Will we see you on tour?
I’m planning a European tour for the end of 2019 and obviously if a good promoter from USA wants Even Vast there, why not.
12 Who would you love to tour with?
Too many bands: Goatsnake, Obsessed, Conan, Monolord, Kadavar, Clutch etc…
13 What is your favorite song of yours and why?
I think “Upon Deaf Ears” because it is both relaxing and heavy at the same time.
14 Why should people take the time to listen to your band over the thousands of other bands?
Maybe because we try to diversify the sound and be more personal.
15 What are your favorite music websites labels podcast etc?
http://www.handofdoomradio.com, hardrockhellradio.com
17 If you could choose a cover song your band mates would hate what would it be?
Sorry Even Vast do not do any cover songs.
18 Is the record or live show more important?
Both really important. Me (Luca) and Chris both work in the music industry, I am a mastering engineer and Chris a sound engineer. Live shows are the most important promotion for the band.
19 Name 3 people dead or alive you would want to play your music for.
Cliff Burton, Scott "Wino" Weinrich, Greg Anderson (Goatsnake, Sunn O))) )
20 Lemmy, Ozzy, Dio and Rob Halford in a cage match who wins?
Absolutely Lemmy
HEAR EVAN VAST AND ALL THE METAL COFFEE BANDS ON OUR SPOTIFY PLAYLIST
This is high impact for radio / press now!! request for interviews can be set up by emailing metalcoffefpr@gmail.com as well as request for music or any other info you need.
