Interview Rich Kid Express

 

Join us in a rock and roll journey as Rob, the creator of Rich Kid Express, shares tales of inspiration, diverse influences, and the essence of timeless music.

1.       1.Rob, could you share with us the story of how Rich Kid Express came into existence? What motivated you to create this one-man circus act?

I played drums in various rock bands over the years and just decided I wanted to get away from the "band" thing and try my hand at writing and recording on my own. I love being creative and the idea of putting something together from scratch all by myself became interesting. I started Squib Kick Records (label) in 2016 and then went to work on putting out the music I created.

2. Your music is often described as a fusion of seventies-style glam rock and eighties-era hard rock. What drew you to these specific musical eras, and how have they influenced your sound?

As a kid, I was knocked over by the seventies era KISS days! I mean where else could it be like the 4th Of July and Halloween all at the same time! Fireworks, costumes and loud music!! I started getting into other bands in the early eighties and the hard rock scene was just exploding! I was just a young teenager, too young to yet be in a band, and too young to go the concerts. But, not too young to buy the music which is what I did. I always had a soft spot for "Bubblegum" style rock music also. So as I began putting the ideas together for RKE, I knew I wanted to add elements of glam and bubblegum, and incorporate it with my love of eighties hard rock. Some say hair metal....(and think that's a negative term) But I don't mind that description. After all, everyone had long hair and the scene was all about goodtimes and parties! What's not to like about that? I decided I was going to write in both styles and sort of mold them together. I like to just say, "retro flavored hard rock!"

3. You've listed several influential artists, including KISS, The Sweet, AC/DC, W.A.S.P, Joan Jett, and even Spinal Tap. Can you pinpoint a song or album from one of these artists that has had a profound impact on your musical journey?

Absolutely, KISS ALIVE II set me on my road to ruin! (haha!)....seriously, anything KISS did from '73-'78 just knocked me sideways. As I began to explore other bands in the early eighties, the debut W.A.S.P. album took me to a whole different place. I was like a kid in a candy store wanting to eat everything up. "I Wanna Be Somebody" is my favorite hard rock/metal song to this day. I loved the movie "This Is Spinal Tap" and became a huge fan of the "pretend" band. I used to spend hours in record stores thumbing through the albums to find new things. It was a great time for music.

4. Your music spans a range of genres like Bubblegum, Glam, Hair Metal, and Heavy Metal. How do you manage to incorporate these diverse styles into your music while maintaining your unique sound?

I don't know how unique my sound is....after all, I kinda re-hash a lot of what was probably already previously done. But the kicker is, I try to combine elements of all those styles and try to add a little humor and a little attitude to it all. Keep it fun and upbeat. (nothing like Nineties grunge music)
I try to add different elements to the songs to keep them a bit modern, but with a very retro feel. Something that folks can say "sounds familiar" but still has a style or flavor all it's own.

5. Your music is all about fun and catchy rock and roll. Could you share a memorable moment from your music-making process that embodies this spirit of enjoyment?

That's kind of hard to pinpoint. Let's just say, I don't take it too seriously. That is what I enjoy the most about it. I like to have fun, try weird sounds, maybe use instruments that are a little different once in a while. I believe rock and roll is meant to be a silly trainwreck sometimes. There are moments for attitude and roughness and times for joking and silliness. I try to see both sides of it. In previous recordings, "Bubblegum Radio" EP from 2020, my kids sang on that song with me. They were only six and nine at the time and that was a lot of fun! I try to just not take things too seriously with music and
that helps to keep the entire project fun. Besides, I surely don't expect it to make me any money! (haha! - cause it doesn't!)

6. You've described your music as "music to help make your beer go down easier." What role do you think music plays in enhancing our experiences, especially in a live setting?

When you go out to hear a band, or if you are at home just listening to music, you want to feel good. You don't want to think about work, problems, money, house payments, bills, your ex girlfriend...whatever. You want to enjoy the moment! You want a song to take you away and make you tap your foot, bang your head, raise your glass! Sometimes, people like to drink to feel good. If my song helps your beer taste better, that's a win for both of us!! If I wanted to be sad, I'd watch a sappy movie or listen to some awful pop music.

7. You've released the "Bubblegum Radio EP" (2020) and the "Psychodelic LP" (2021). Can you take us through the creative journey behind these projects and highlight a track or two that you're particularly proud of?

Those two releases were a lot of fun for me. As I mentioned earlier, my kids were on the song "Bubblegum Radio" and I was writing like crazy trying to come up with new things. It was my starting point and in a creative sense, just the tip of the iceberg so to speak. I put both of those releases out within just about a year of each other and I was working hard. Any riff I had or catchy chorus, I was writng a song around it. I wrote about my dog, "Just A Dog" - I just had all sorts of ideas flying around. Rich Kid Express was just getting on it's feet. Now, I'm a bit more understanding of what works and what doesn't, what feels good and my songwriting is becoming a little better as time goes along. (and for being just a drummer originally - my instrument skills are improving on ALL instruments) I'm sure there is a joke there somewhere.

8. Being a multi-instrumentalist and the sole performer in Rich Kid Express, how do you handle the various aspects of your one-man circus act, from songwriting to live performances?

Well, unfortunately....Rich Kid Express is really just a recording project. I won't say I'll never play LIVE anymore, but it's not a priority at the moment for me. I've done years of playing in clubs on a local and regional level. I don't see the music scene as a whole, being very receptive to a lot of live gigging. Between lack of crowds sometimes and the costs involved. It's hard to tour. So that being said, I am open to opportunites to play live, pending on the situation, but it's mostly a recording thing. As far as doing the multi-instrumental thing, I'm learning all the time and getting better on all the instruments I play. I'm learning to use harmonies better, chord structures and the whole recording/mixing process is like a different world all unto itself. I'm slowly getting better at that too. It's all about small steps and growth.

9. Your music often carries an attitude and swagger. Can you share some of the sources of inspiration for your lyrics and the themes you explore in your songs?

I write about girls. (haha!) 80% of the time I write about girls, or rocky relationships. I don't know why? Maybe I'm a shallow thinker. I've been married for 30 years and have a great relationship. But it feels like rock and rollers always need to sing about bad girlfriends or awful boyfriends. You broke my heart now I hate you type stuff. Cause that's easy. We've all been there. I believe the music carries the attitude and swagger. It's a vibe. A feel in the song. The way it hits you! That's the most important thing. The way a song makes you feel. If a song is upbeat and happy - you smile. If a song is heavy and dark - you are probably mad! So it's just a vibe. I try to think mostly of topics I can relate to, and ideas that are belivable. I'm not going to sing about things I can't somewhat imagine or relate to.

10. For those who haven't experienced a Rich Kid Express show, could you paint a picture of what a typical live performance is like and what the audience can expect?

I can paint the picture...loud, obnoxious and lots of fun! High energy tunes, great atmosphere! An exciting show with lots of rock and roll pizazz! Unfortunately, no live shows planned at the moment as it's more or less just a recording project, but we can always pretend. And if RKE does get the opportunity to play live one day - it'll be a blast! Until then, the music lives through your speakers.

11. Given the retro rock and roll influences in your music, do you notice different reactions from listeners of different generations? How does your music bridge generational gaps?

YES....big difference. The older crowd seems to be the predominant audience. Rich Kid Express music caters to the folks who like classic rock, arena rock and of course all the seventies and eighties stuff. The younger newer audiences are more into pop/rap and such. I try to incorporate some pop elements at times and some more "youthful" sounds - but really the age I focus on is the ones who lived the years when guitars were the main instrument and long hair ruled the day.

12. Can you share some of the most memorable feedback or reactions you've received from fans and listeners of Rich Kid Express?

I will say, the fan base is growing and the reactions have been super! I don't have anything negative to say about the growth of Rich Kid Express. The ones who like RKE feel a sense of songs being familiar and styles they loved in years past. It's a nostalgic thing I believe. And that works for me. If I can fill a new music void with styles they've always loved, that works just fine. Some of the reviews in magazines have been splendid! At least people "get it" and understand what I'm doing.

13. We've heard about your latest release, the "Under The Purple Lights EP" (2023). Could you give us a sneak peek into this new project and what listeners can anticipate from it?

Under The Purple Lights is my brand new EP, just released on Sept. 15, 2023. There are five songs of slight different styles. One song is very Alice Cooper meets Judas Priest like...another is very much like a 70's KISS feel. The styles are all different, but gel together very well. An exciting release with some nice riffs and hooks to the songs. I even have my one glam rock style song that I like to try and include on each of my releases. It was a fun project to work on and my buddy Jake Branscome is a guest on it. He plays the lead guitar on "U Never...." and he really does a knockout job!

14. In the spirit of your music, what's one piece of advice or philosophy you'd like to impart to aspiring musicians or fellow rock and roll enthusiasts?

For Musicians: Do it because you love it. Don't expect any rewards or even anyone to pay attention. do your own thing and enjoy your musical ideas. For Fans: Just try to continue to support new artists and appreciate the old ones still around and being able to make music. Music is still a thing! It's not just background noise. Pay attention to those bands when they are performing. For Everyone Else: to quote Spinal Tap - "Have a good time, all the time."

15. How do you personally define the essence of rock and roll, and how does Rich Kid Express embody that essence?

It about self expression - good, bad or otherwise. Rock and Roll is a feeling. It's a little about how you look, a lot about how you sound and mostly how you feel and present it! Rich Kid Express is just an extension of that. It's a feeling and a vibe, with a sound to match. (I don't look nearly as good as I used too.) haha!

16. Lastly, if you could collaborate with any musician, past or present, who would it be, and what kind of song or project would you envision working on together?

I would love to work with my Grandfather. (Raymond Richardson) He was a musician long before I was born and he was the leader of his orchestra/big band. He played in the Army Band (WWII) He also played in New Jersey back in the fifties forming his own band: The Commodores, (not the Lionel Richie version) and played throughout the seventies. He never got to see me play or perform, never got to hear me write and record my own songs, but he bought me my first drum set when I was thirteen. I would love to have a chat with him now and maybe us work on a song together. I'm sure it would be quite different than what I'm used to...but I'd love to hear his ideas and talk music with him. He was a multi-instrumentalist as well but mostly played the trombone. Could play a variety of instruments and hand wrote all the music for his group. I bet he'd have some interesting stories to tell.

 

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Interview Yritys

Yritys, born from a final attempt in music, features members Nihil and Galla's shared passion for black metal. Their debut album, "DELUSION(S)," draws from personal struggles, with a blend of DSBM nostalgia shaping their sound. With new projects on the horizon and their album set for release with Misantropia Records, Yritys promises more to come.

1.       Can you tell us about the origins of Yritys? How did the band come together, and what inspired you to start making music together?

Well Yritys was meant to be my (Nihil) last project in music, my last attempt henceforth the name Yritys (that's the Finnish word for "an attempt"). Me(Nihil) and Galla have known each other for many years and always talked about starting up a black metal band. And Yritys started with me giving bass lessons to Ukko and it grew into making original songs that later became our debut album DELUSION(S).

2.       Yritys was formed in 2019 by members Ukko and Nihil. Can you share some insights into the early days of the band and how your dynamic as a duo influenced your music?

I (Nihil) had a song in my head that i wrote for about 15 years ago, and never made a serious recording or released it properly. That was until I played the riffs to Ukko and he started to improvise bass to it in one of our bass lessons. That song later became our song Nihil.

3.       Ard Void joined the project a few months after its formation. What did Ard Void bring to the band in terms of musical style and creativity?

Ard Void is like a mentor/brother to us, mostly because of his past in the scene and knowledge in music. He helped us in the early days a lot with drums and made our poor recordings into something worth releasing and gave life to the riffs we recorded at my home studio.

4.       Nihil, you mentioned feeling the need for something or someone more after working on your debut album for a year or so. Could you elaborate on what led to this realization and how it influenced the band's direction?

I can honestly say that the first years working on DELUSION(S) were mostly only instruments, and after we had most of the songs ready I started to plan the recording of vocals to it. And who else but my dear friend Galla (that had just been released from the mental institution after an involuntarily stay for a period of time) who's vocal style I’ve always envied.

5.       Galla, you were the final piece of the puzzle when Nihil contacted you to complete the band. What attracted you to Yritys and how did you feel about joining a project that had already been established?

As mentioned before, Nihil and I had been talking about working on a project together. And when I actually got to hear the songs that were Yritys - DELUSION(S) I was more than intrigued and thought I could do the album justice. I've had music on ice so to speak before Yritys came along because of personal reasons. The timing was perfect this time.

6.       Yritys' debut album, "DELUSION(S)," delves into Nihil's struggles with mental health and ongoing demons. Could you share how personal experiences and emotions shaped the themes and lyrics of this album?

Almost 15 badly medicated years I’ve suffered everything from anxiety to psychosis several times. I've been institutionalized in mental hospitals several times and when that happens I have a tendency to write lyrics and notes on my phone which became the lyrics to DELUSION(S).

7.       Nihil, as the founder and lyricist of the band, can you discuss some of the deluded thoughts and experiences that inspired the songs on "DELUSION(S)"?

Every sentence on the album is a thought I’ve suffered from whilst being heavily medicated or institutionalized so the lyrics are very real to me even though they don't make sense in reality all the time. For example the song Phantasmal dives in to my problems with psychosis and anxiety, 600mg dives in heavily medicated thoughts.

8.       Musically, how would you describe the sound and style of Yritys, especially on your debut album? Are there any specific influences or genres that have played a significant role in shaping your music?

Early 2000 DSBM influenced a few of us. But Ukko for example had never heard of DSBM before Yritys came along. He still doesn't listen to the genre. But for me(Nihil) and Galla, early DSBM is very nostalgic. We tried to make a album we wanted to listen to.

9.       Ukko, as a founding member and bassist, what role does your instrument play in defining Yritys' sound, and how do you contribute to the band's overall creative process?

Contribution Wise, I (Ukko) wrote mostly the foundation to DELUSION(S). Because we (Nihil  and I) wrote the bass before anything else. Except for the song Nihil, which was the hardest to record for me (Ukko) since I didn't have much experience at the time of  the recording. I made it hard for Nihil to record the guitars to all the other songs since I don't know any music theory, and that shaped the sound significantly.

10.   Ard Void, you handle drums, mixing, and mastering for the band. How do these roles intersect, and how do they contribute to the unique sound of Yritys?

Ard Void is not present at the time of this interview, and is not a full time member because other projects. But he's our brother and a real helping hand in everything we produce.

11.   Galla, as the lead vocalist, your voice is a distinctive element of Yritys' music. How do you approach interpreting and delivering the deeply personal lyrics written by Nihil?

 I really try to put myself in the headspace of Nihil whilst recording his lyrics. I myself have struggled similar demons to Nihil. And try to put myself in that headspace whilst recording.

12.   Looking ahead, what can fans expect from Yritys in terms of future music and projects? Are there any goals or aspirations you'd like to share with your audience?

We have already started to record album number 2 that has a name but we won't reveal that just yet. But DELUSION(S) is going to be released by Misantropia Records this October as physical copies. So stay tuned for more info in the future.

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Interview Dusk

DUSK's journey from Algeria's metal underground to international acclaim unfolds in this interview. Explore their music, influences, challenges, and upcoming projects with the band members themselves.

1. Can you tell us about the early days of DUSK and how the band came together in 2001? What inspired you to form a metal band in Algeria?

DUSK, which started in 2001, and was formed by a group of like-minded young friends who shared a love for metal music; our journey was a mixture of passion and determination to express ourselves through music.
what pushed us to do it is seeing metal music in our country growing, we wanted to break the boundaries and do like our predecessors.

2. DUSK initially faced challenges and setbacks in its early years. What motivated you to persist in pursuing your musical vision despite these obstacles?

Our unwavering passion for music, a shared vision, and the desire to break barriers in the Algerian metal scene where our main motivations to persist despite early challenges and setbacks.

3. Could you describe the evolution of DUSK's music and style from your early rehearsal sessions to the present day?

DUSK's music has had a long journey since our first rehearsal sessions until today. At the beginning we were inspired by metal bands such as Metallica Sepultura Megadeth slayer...... However, as and as we honed our skills, our music evolved.

Today, DUSK's music is a reflection of our artistic and personal growth. It's a mix of powerful metal energy.

4. Redouane Mostefaoui, you joined the band in 2015 with the goal of reviving it. What inspired you to take on this role, and how did you go about reinvigorating the band's creative spirit?

I joined DUSK in 2015 because of my admiration for my friends, the band and my passion for metal music. To reinvigorate the creative spirit of the group, we placed emphasis on collaboration, and especially composition.

5. The band's lineup has evolved over the years. How do each of the current members contribute to DUSK's sound and musical direction?

Each current member of DUSK contributes their unique skills and musical style to our sound. Together, we create a diverse and dynamic musical direction, combining elements from our respective roles to shape our signature sound.

6. Can you share some insights into your songwriting process? What themes and influences inspire your music and lyrics?

Our songwriting process is collaborative which draws on various influences. It usually starts with one member bringing in a riff and from there we develop it collectively by experimenting with different melodies, rhythms.

The themes of our music often reflect our personal experiences, social issues and a deep connection to our Algerian heritage.

7. As a metal band in Algeria, what unique challenges and opportunities have you encountered in the local music scene?

Being a metal band in Algeria has presented both unique challenges and opportunities Metal music isn't traditionally associated with Algerian culture, so we initially faced skepticism and misunderstanding from some quarters.

The local music scene had limited resources for metal bands, including venues, recording studios, and event organizers specializing in metal.

Overall, while the challenges were significant, the opportunities to pioneer a unique sound and contribute to the growth of the metal scene in Algeria have been incredibly rewarding.

8. DUSK's music combines various subgenres of metal. How do you approach blending these different elements to create a cohesive and distinctive sound?

We create our distinctive sound by respecting the roots of each subgenre by experimenting in collaborative composition we are able to create a cohesive and distinctive sound that reflects our identity

9. Are there any specific bands or artists that have had a significant influence on DUSK's music and style?

Yes, several bands and artists have had a significant influence on DUSK's music and style. Some of our notable influences include classic metal bands like Iron Maiden Metallica slayer Pantera as well as local musicians who have inspired and inspired us. These influences have helped shape our unique musical identity.

10. Your current members include Redouane Mostefaoui (Rhythm guitar and vocal), Lamine Amrane (Lead guitar), Anis Hadj Ahmed (Bass guitar), and Nabil Litim (Drums). Can you share some insights into how your musical chemistry works and how you collaborate on your music?

We maintain open and honest communication within the group. This means sharing ideas and concerns in an open and respectful manner. It often starts with one member bringing an initial idea, whether it's a riff, a melody. From there we build together, each member providing its expertise.

Overall, our musical chemistry is the result of mutual respect, shared passion, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of our creativity. It's this dynamic collaboration that allows us to create music that resonates with our fans and continues to evolve.

11. Could you tell us about any upcoming projects, albums, or performances that fans can look forward to from DUSK in the near future?

We have already released a new single called "BEHIND MY SHADOW" In October, we will release our very first EP THE NEW LAND, which is an important step for us.

we are excited to announce that we will be recording a double album in 2024.
Additionally, we are hopeful about the possibility of performing concerts. Although the details are still being worked out, we can't wait to get back on stage and connect with our fans in person.
We appreciate the support of our fans and look forward to sharing these musical journeys with you all.

12. What message or feeling do you hope listeners take away from your music, particularly those who may not be familiar with Algerian metal?

We hope they will take away a sense of unity, inspiration and cultural richness. Our music is a bridge between the power and intensity of metal. Our goal is to convey that music is a universal language that transcends borders and connects people.

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Interview Ignited

Discover the journey of Ignited, a heavy metal project born in 2016 from the ashes of Herege. Explore their evolution, collaborations, and future plans in this in-depth interview.

1.Can you tell us about the origins of Ignited and how the band came together back in 2017?

It is a heavy metal project that started at the end of 2016, bringing together former members of our previous band called Herege, which disbanded around 2009. The name actually has no mysticism under the hood; it's just a word that represents energy and power and suits the heavy metal genre quite well. For me it also represents the opportunity to do your best when time comes and keep preparing yourself as much as possible.

2.Your debut album, "Steelbound," was produced by Thiago Bianchi and featured artwork by Gustavo Sazes. How did these collaborations come about, and what impact did they have on the album's sound and visual identity?

The sound identity is influenced by bands we admire from the early 90s when heavy metal, according to historical accounts, became less fancy and pompous than it was in the 80s, featuring a more raw and straightforward sound. This is what we envisioned as a great source of inspiration for our work in the studio. Then we talked towards that goal and did the best you could.

Regarding the artwork, we have the idea of representing this factory-ish idea, some kind of metal forge with a bit more of a new approach in terms of design.

3."Steelbound" was recorded in São Paulo, Brazil. How did the location influence the recording process and the overall vibe of the album?

It was an interesting experience traveling to another state for the recordings. We spent 10 days at the studio, and it all went by pretty quickly. I wish we could have had more time to analyze the material and maybe improve some aspects. But, as they say, what's done is done, right? The vibe was intense, to say the least. It's important to value what we do, but also to keep the door to improvement always open.

4.The album's digital release in November 2019 was followed by live performances, including opening for Noturnall with Mike Portnoy in Porto Alegre. Can you share some memorable moments from those shows?

We were able to record the live album, titled SteeLive, which is available online, and capture the band's inaugural live performance for posterity. That's the best I can share with you. The rest wasn't easy to manage.

5. In 2020, the band secured a physical CD release through Voice Music Records. How did you manage the promotion of the physical release, and what were the challenges you faced?

We printed approximately 500 copies, and the record company distributed and sold a portion of them. Unfortunately, the timing wasn't ideal as it coincided with the worst period of the pandemic in Brazil, which not only hindered our ability to sell them effectively but also impacted our ability to schedule concerts, like everyone else. The promotion was made by me basically managing some marketing campaigns on social media and also a webstore that didn't work as expected for probably the same reasons. We also worked with PR companies and printed magazines for advertisements to promotethe album and spread the news.

6."Steelbound" has garnered significant streams on platforms like Spotify and YouTube. What do you think contributed to its excellent reception by the audience in multiple countries?

Yes, the songs have received a very positive reception, and I'm thrilled about that. Mainlyon Spotify, we got into many independent metal playlists, and on YouTube, we targeted some campaigns to the metal audience, with that, in other words, inviting people to take a look at what we had to offer. This is what has really generated some results.

7.Ignited participated in online festivals like the Heresy Metal Festival and worked on the live album "Steelive." How did these experiences differ from traditional live performances, and what motivated you to explore acoustic versions of your songs?

It was a specific period when everyone had to adapt to the online format, so we did what we could to maintain our online presence and it was nice to participate. The same for the live album that came as an alternative, once we already had the material, and then we just needed to organize and release it. I believe each format has its merits, but I have a preference for live performances. Nothing can replace the magic of real interactions yet. The acoustic version of the song 'Times' was a rearrangement that I initiated, and then the vocals were added on top with some improvisational touches and a different 70's-ish vibe. It was a good fit for that song in particular and I wish to have more of it in future.

8.You also released a guitar playthrough for the song "Roaring Gears." Can you share some insights into the process of creating this video and how it helps connect with your audience?

My wife and I handled the recording of the takes at home. It was a cool idea, and we always learn a lot from these initiatives, willingly, of course. I want to create more of these videos for the second album and personally, I find watching someone else's playthroughs inspiring, regardless of the instrument.

9.In 2021, you released a music video for "Living In The Dark," which received promotion from a European PR agency. How did this differ from your previous promotional efforts, and what impact did it have on your fan base?

We shared the press release in a cost-effective manner, similar to our previous efforts in Brazil. As a new band, it can take some time for the music we create to generate a significant level of attraction, so I'm not entirely certain about the impact at this stage. Our approach is to keep releasing new content and connect with new and genuine people in the metal world. Building a presence and audience often requires multiple rounds of exposure and engagement.

10.Can you elaborate on the band's decision to introduce Martin Bellucci as the new bass player in April 2022? How has this change influenced your sound and dynamics?

Martin is a dear friend from Argentina who currently lives in London, but we met many years ago in Brazil when he played in a Death Metal band with some other friends back then. He played in the Herege band for a brief period, and we shared the stage on two occasions. So, yeah, we have some great history together, and we work well together, discussing everything and refining whatever it needs. He certainly added a unique touch to the bass.

11.You mentioned working on the pre-production of your second album in 2022. What can fans expect from this upcoming release, and how does it compare to "Steelbound"?

In my opinion, this new record is significantly heavier and louder than the first one. The songs also incorporate a modern touch in the mixing process, resulting in a fresh atmosphere within the familiar heavy metal genre. I began composing some of these songs right after we finished recording the first album in 2019. Right from the very first song on the album, you can expect a massive wall of sound that possibly will disturb a few neighbors without a doubt. I honestly look forward to seeing people experience a sense of well-being and positive energy when they listen to the album.

12.Recording your new album in Gothenburg, Sweden, with Fredrik Nordström is a significant step. How did this collaboration come about, and what made this production experience unique?

Working with Fredrik was a special experience for me because I've been a great fan of his productions. Naturally, Dream Evil, his own band, played a significant role in my musical journey when I began exploring more metal bands in the early 2000s. The planning process took a considerable amount of time, and it was a complex task to coordinate everything. It wasn't an easy task by any means. During the recording sessions, it was truly remarkable to witness how he effortlessly understood everything that needed to be done. He led the band with a highly productive and enjoyable approach. I recall one particular day when we managed to track seven songs, just the rhythm guitars, and we didn't stop until my fingers could no longerrespond. (hehe)

I hope that for our third album, we can work together in some manner. Personally, I learned a great deal about the operation and recording through this experience as well.

13.Bravo & Bravo Films produced a new music video for you. Can you give us a sneak peek into the concept and visuals of the video?

We aimed to capture the essence of the lyrics, portraying it through our performance and the external scenes featuring a figure in black deep in contemplation, gazing into the void, so to speak. Working with the team during the video shoot was a positive experience, and I felt that we were in capable hands throughout the process. Everything unfolded according to our plans and expectations.

14.Finally, can you reflect on how Ignited's journey from its origins in Brazil to its current base in Stockholm, Sweden, has influenced your music and your identity as a band?

Since 2021, when I moved to Sweden, I've taken on the responsibility for all aspects of the project from here, including everything basically. I've been the one organizing this endeavor I'd say since the beginning, and my goal has always been to expand it beyond its place of origin. Undoubtedly, life here in Sweden has influenced the creation of new songs, and it will continue to have an even greater impact on future recordings.

I would describe our musical identity as something that's currently in a state of expansion, and my hope is to evolve in terms of consistency and innovation, so to speak, from one album to another. The idea is to infuse the heavy metal genre with a contemporary touch while also embracing new influences in a balanced manner.

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Interview XIII Doors

In this interview, XIII Doors shares insights into their high-energy music, unique blend of influences, and their mission to inspire listeners to lead happier lives through their music. They also discuss their journey as a band, the creative process, and their aspirations for the future.

1.Congratulations on the upcoming release of your debut single, "Lead The Way." Can you tell us about the inspiration behind this high-energy track?

Thank you! The track was actually the last one written for the album, and really the inspiration behind it was that we needed a good high-energy, upbeat single to get the ball rolling and we didn't really have that. After some noodling around on the guitar the main riff came out and the whole first draft of the song came together in one evening.

2."Lead The Way" seems to carry a powerful message of determination and self-belief. What message do you hope listeners take away from the song?

We really hope that this track can inspire people to lead a life that they want to lead. There will always be obstacles, things won't always be easy. Nonetheless, it's important to forget about the past and continue on the path that you want to lead. If the track can inspire one person to do that then our job is done!

3.How did XIII Doors come together as a band, and what inspired the choice of the name "XIII Doors"?

We have all played together in different projects on and off over the last few years and just decided to finally sit down and write some original material. The name itself has been around since about 2015, I can't remember exactly where it came from but I think it came from growing up in number "13" on the street where I grew up.

4.DJ, you have a diverse musical background. How did your experiences in different bands and theatrical productions influence the sound of XIII Doors?

Playing in cover bands and theatre shows definitely helped me with musical discipline. I've had the opportunity to play with great rhythm sections over the years and slowly realised how incredibly important it is to be locked together when you're playing. In terms of influencing XIII Doors' sound, I think a lot of that just comes from hanging around with other musicians and sharing what music you're listening to at the time until it sneaks into your subconscious and becomes part of how you write!

5.Ed, as the producer, can you share some insights into the creative process behind recording and producing XIII Doors' music?

The aim was to capture the feel & intensity of the song & punctuate the lyrical content whilst maintaining its heavy catchy edge. We took great time in the recording process, making sure we could get the absolute most out of each part sonically which we hope can be heard in the final song.

6.Pat, you bring a wealth of experience to the band. How has your journey through the music industry shaped your approach to playing bass with XIII Doors?

Well I think the more experience you gain, the more it helps you improve your approach to each recording session or gig. What is the best thing to play for the song? How do I help improve the band? I think that's what I bring to XIII Doors.

7.Alex, your drumming style adds a unique dimension to XIII Doors' sound. Can you tell us about your musical influences and how they contribute to the band's overall sound?

I grew up listening to all the classics. You know, Led Zeppelin, Kiss, Van Halen, Motley Crue. I think that kind of flashy drum style was a great influence on me, and I try to implement it into my own playing. Drummers like Eric Singer, Tommy Lee and Alex Van Halen inspired me to play the way I do.

8.Your music is described as a blend of hard rock and heavy metal with influences from various traditions. How do you manage to fuse these different elements into a cohesive sound?

DJ here, personally I've listened to a lot of "fusion" music over the last number of years. I'm a huge fan of Revolver by the Beatles which is a great blend of East meets West. People like John McLaughlin, Steve Vai and Guthrie Govan have explored this territory before so I like to look at them for inspiration. I think Ireland has a great tradition of fusing genres too when you look at bands like Planxty so it's probably embedded somewhere without me knowing it!

9.Can you give us a glimpse into what we can expect from your upcoming debut album, set to arrive in March 2024?

We've got heavy riffs, melodic vocals and inspirational lyrics! Lead the Way is one of the heavier tracks on the album but they all definitely still sit somewhere in the hard rock/metal genre.

10.DJ, as the founder of XIII Doors, what is the overarching mission or vision you hope to achieve through your music?

I want to inspire people to lead happier lives. It's as simple as that! If our music can inspire one person or make their day better, we've done our job.

11.In your bio, it's mentioned that you've toured across Europe, the UK, and the Middle East. Can you share a memorable tour experience or a favorite show from your past?

Being on the road is just a great experience! There's a lot of sleep deprivation, soggy petrol station sandwiches and a lack of places to wash clothes but it's really good fun. Anywhere that the crowd is enjoying it is a great show for us.

12.Each member of XIII Doors seems to bring something unique to the table. How do you collaborate and bring all these influences together to create your music?

I think we've just got chemistry from the years of knowing each other and playing together. Writing songs together feels natural and everyone can add their bit.

13.What's the most challenging aspect of being a band in the modern music industry, and how do you overcome it?

Streaming is definitely a blessing and a curse in today's industry. Music has become free and disposable in today's society and very few people "buy" music anymore. The upside is that more people than ever can be exposed to your music and become a fan so it's a trade off. Whether for better or worse I think gigging or Patreon are the only way to make money nowadays in music.

14.Can you share any anecdotes or stories from the recording process of your debut single or upcoming album that stand out to you?

We recorded everything up in Red Lake Sound Studios in Portlaoise. Apart from being woken up by Emus knocking on the window (yes, real Emus), I think one moment that stands out to me is getting the solo for one of the tracks done in the very first take! It was an improvised solo and it just had that lighting in a bottle feel to it. We tried 5 or 6 takes afterwards and kept going back to the first one because it had some sort of excitement and anxiousness the other takes didn't!

15.What are your hopes and aspirations for XIII Doors in the coming years, and how do you plan to leave your mark on the music industry?

Truly, we would love to be able to make a modest living out of this. To be able to gig around the globe, meet fans and inspire people is the dream. We're hoping that over the next few years that the dream will become the reality!

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Chakora Interview

Chakora, a passionate metal band, discusses their music's evolution, touring experiences, and the raw energy that connects them with their dedicated fans in this insightful interview.

1.Your music has been described as a revival of the metal scene from previous decades. What inspired you to bring back that classic sound?

For us it’s about playing what we are passionate about. If we take the groove Metal vibes from Pantera starting in 1990 with Cowboys from Hell - they are raw, authentic, passionate, and just focused on fucking amazing riffing. We have a really similar ethos - all 4 of us bring a burning passion for music across all genres and sub-genres of metal, also overflowing into the funk, jazz, indie side- but at the core we are headbangers and have a raw, authentic passion for fucking amazing metal riffs.

2.You've had the opportunity to support international tours like the Aggressor Tour and the Fury Tour. How has touring alongside established bands like Ektomorf influenced your own musical journey?

As a garage band or playing in your bedroom at home you have a „dream“ image of touring and gigging which doesn’t reflect reality. Having the privilege of experiencing the reality gave us true insight to the dedication and stamina needed. The excitement of driving from city to city and being among like minded people that celebrate music, knowing the energy you put out is getting fed straight back to you by the crowd, feels like a drug- that you just want more and more of. We really appreciated having Ektomorf to show us the ropes, they definitely took us under their wing, and helped us to see the good, bad, and the ugly of touring! We would definitely say that experience influenced the writing of our second album- as we became wiser about how fucking difficult it is in the music industry, we became more determined with our music writing to just play what feels good to us, staying true to ourselves- knowing that even after a long tour, your getting on stage to play songs that you wrote and you love playing. 

 

3.Your live performances have been praised for their energy and crowd engagement. What's the key to connecting with your audience in such a powerful way?

In the previous question we mentioned about feeding on energy from the crowd, and them feeding on the same energy from us on stage. For us that isn’t about jumping around on stage and looking „through“ the audience like a lot of bands do… when we are on stage it’s not about us, it’s about the crowd- they have come out to be entertained- they have come out to experience something, and we genuinely want to show that appreciation by giving of our best- and making them a part of the performance! The ultimate goal is to have the folks that at the beginning of the show were standing in the back with their arms crossed, by the end, down the front tapping their foot, banging their heads, and just enjoying the energy. Keeping an eye on the vitality in the crowd, seeing the excitement being created in people’s eyes feeds us. 

 

4.Chakora has already played a headliner tour in Russia. Can you share some of your most memorable moments from that experience?

We'd say the day we arrived in Moscow. From A-Z, everyone was incredibly kind, and the locals showed a keen interest in our music and who we are. We were also invited to the studio of a Russian band. After a night of heavy drinking, they urged us to give them a private gig in the middle of the night. That didn't quite pan out as planned, leading to a night filled with partying and blackouts. Overall, we felt extremely welcomed there by everyone we met." 

5.Your debut album "Chakora" was released in 2017. How do you feel your music has evolved between that release and your upcoming second album?

There is a stark contrast between our first and second album. I’d say our development from album 1 to 2 is the maturity of our music. With the first album we had a lot of aggression to let out, we were finding our feet- we had a statement to make. This time around we were more focused on the intricacy of song writing, the meaning behind the songs, and translating the themes into a musical journey. We wanted each instrument to be on top of its game and that had also translated into the production. Chris is a killer producer, and challenged each band member to really deliver their best performance not only in their technicality, but translating that into the sound engineering- every hit on the drum, every chug on the bass, every riff on the guitar comes through really nicely.

I think when the fans hear songs like „The Invincible“, „PTSD“, „Muddy Waters“ they will see that we have stayed true to ourselves, but have grown and matured (hopefully like a red wine and not like a bad curry haha)! 

 

6.Can you give us some insights into the themes or concepts that listeners can expect from your upcoming second album?

The overarching theme is the reality of life. The highs and lows… with songs like Shadows and PTSD, lyrically written by our Bassist Steve, these are based on real life experiences, us writing about our life events or those of our families. The others are written with impulse emotion, for example „Bitch“, or „Somebody Else“ written by our singer Nick, similarly a genuine authentic guy, giving an impulsive insight into his life. 

So on the whole, the theme is „life“- you listen to this album, you are listening to what makes us who we are as people. 

 

7.Groove metal is a genre known for its distinctive rhythm and groove. How do you balance creating memorable, head-banging riffs while maintaining the emotional depth of your music?

That comes down to the creative process that layers on over time. It starts with a killer riff from Chris or Nick, which we build on, and build on, and build on. At some early stage in the writing process we start to feel a certain vibe from the music and that steers the direction of it. Jakob will sit behind the kit and build his chops around those riffs in a way that elevates the drums, we think on a melodic level. Steve sees his priority in being a solid rhythm section together with Jakob and orientates himself on Jakobs playing so that they are tight. He provides dynamics, depth, and the gut and gore- to elevate the emotion of the song. Nicks approach to the vocals is very much what rounds out the emotion of the song- the Lyrics have meaning, when he sings them, he fucking means it! At the end of the writing process is where the solos from Chris come in- he really rounds out the song and puts the sealing mark on it. 

8.Your sound features a blend of clean and growling vocals. How do you decide when to incorporate each vocal style into your songs?

Most of the time, one of us has a vision for how the melody of the vocals should sound in the song we work on. Nik has a lot of ideas during the recording sessions, he tries it and if it fits we keep it on the record.

9.Many fans are eagerly anticipating your new album. Can you give us a sneak peek into any collaborations, surprises, or special elements that might be present on this album?

There’s definitely a Hammond organ solo in there somewhere ;-) 

 

10.As a band, what's your songwriting process like? Do you have any specific rituals or routines that help channel your creativity?

This is already answered in 7. 

11.In an era where music consumption is dominated by streaming platforms, how do you approach crafting a cohesive album listening experience?

In our opinion every song needs to stand out on its own and make a statement, so that even if the listener doesn’t listen to the whole album and only hears part of it as a „silo“ on a Spotify playlist or something, the song is stand alone „balls to the wall“. That’s why when we construct an album we make sure each song is strong on its own, but elements still remain consistent through the songs, including subtleties like the guitar sounds, the bass tone etc.

 

12.Metal has a diverse and passionate fan base. What do you think sets Chakora apart and resonates with your listeners in such a significant way?

People that are into us are REALLY into us. I think the fans reflect our personalities- we are 4 very passionate, driven guys- if we like something we like it 1000%, I think our fans see that in us and we attract those types of people. 

 

13.Could you share a particularly challenging moment you've faced as a band and how you overcame it together?

Covid was a really tough one for us personally and as a band- there were a number of things which came together at once, after coming out an amazing high from the tours we did and a schedule full of gigs, we were down to zero, like everyone else. We then had to part ways with our bass player Fabian and look for another bassist.  It was difficult to stay motivated and keep momentum going to practise together, but we used the time wisely to onboard Steve into the band, and Chris kept his foot up our arses ensuring we continued to record the album- which really kept us going. The results you hear on the album are the moments recorded at that time. 

14.Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for Chakora? Are there any dream venues, festivals, or milestones you're aiming for?

We have to think big- that’s what really keeps us going. Chris and Nick are the two main drivers of the band, we all have aspirations and ambitions for the band, we love the music and each other but, Chris and Nick give their life and soul to every front, not just the music, but to promotion, connections and network etc- which is crucial for getting our music out there. We would absolutely love to go on tour through Europe again and play some of the bigger festivals- definitely Summer Breeze and Wacken for sure. A support act slot with a well known band would be amazing and maybe another headline tour, this time though Europe and UK! We are in discussions to make that happen as we speak.

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Interview Hail

Welcome to our interview with Hail, a symphonic metal band hailing from the South of England. Today, we delve into their journey from solo beginnings to a collaborative force in the British metal scene.

1. Can you start by introducing the members of Hail and sharing a brief background on how the
band came together?
• Hayley: We have Chris on bass, Charlie on guitar, Jake on drums and I do the vocals.
The band started as my solo project, where I was recording with a producer. I
decided I wanted to branch out and start gigging, so I put out an advert and found
the others. Thankfully, we are all quite likeminded and share the same goals and
ambition.

2. Your music draws influence from prominent symphonic metal bands like Evanescence,
Within Temptation, and Lacuna Coil. How do these influences manifest in your music, and
what sets Hail apart from these bands?
• chris: although we take some influence from these bands, bring a British band out roots
are very much in the British metal scene. There are symphonic elements, but you can
also hear bands like Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Motörhead and even early Muse and
Radiohead.

3. "Fallen Angel" is your final solo recording as Hayley before forming Hail. Can you tell us about
the transition from your solo career to forming a band and the reasons behind it?
• Hayley: I really enjoyed creating music in the studio, but the sounds were so big! I spent a lot
of time releasing music online, but it was hard to get out and gig because I wasn’t able to
create the right atmosphere by myself just singing with a backing track.

4. Being based in the South of England, how has the local music scene shaped your band's
sound and opportunities for live performances?
• Jake: . We have all come from bands of different genres and have made have made
good friends with people here we are looking to take all we have learned and apply it
to symphonic metal
• Chris: over the last 10 years, I found the music scene in the south of England has
diminished somewhat. I think for us personally that spurred us on to do even better
and put ourselves on the map.

5. What is the typical songwriting process like for Hail? How do you blend the symphonic
elements with metal in your compositions?
• Jake: Typically chris or Charlie will come up with a bass or guitar riff and then we
figure out a symphonic part i then come up with a drum beat. We then form the
structure for a song and Hayley comes up with ideas for what the song is about and
writes lyrics we then play song with lyrics and tinker with structure until it’s a song
we are all happy with. Once we have the initial structure nailed, then Chris goes into
hiding and arranges the orchestral elements before we all give it the thumbs up.

6. You mentioned that one of your goals was to start gigging. How has the live performance
experience been for Hail so far, and do you have any memorable moments to share?
• Hayley: Our first gig was interesting – we saw an advert for a Battle of the Bands with
an open slot less than 24 hours before the performance. We just decided to go for it!
We didn’t win, but it was good fun to try out and see how the audience and judges
reacted to our sound.

7. How do the dynamics within the band contribute to the overall sound and direction of Hail's
music?
• Hayley: I think where everyone is quite mature, like-minded and courteous, it’s
making the writing process enjoyable. We have open discussions about where the
music is heading and we spend a lot of practice time just experimenting with
different ideas. Often someone will work on something in their own time and come
back to the group with a new idea. It’s lovely to see everyone being so enthusiastic
and I hope that will come across when we perform or record.

8. Can you talk about the evolution of Hail's sound since forming the band and how it has
grown from your solo work?
• Hayley: We are still in the early stages of creating music as a band, but so far the
sound has a similar vibe to the latest solo songs. I know that the others like Oblivion
and Fallen Angel the best, and so far we seem to be following on from that. We
might add a fair bit of orchestra and some higher pitched vocals though!

9. Are there any new releases or projects in the pipeline for Hail that fans can look forward to?
• Jake: We are currently writing new material and are looking to record and release in
2024

10. What challenges have you encountered as a symphonic metal band, and how have you
overcome them?
• Chris: When we initially set up the band we went for a couple of lineup changes before we
found what was the right fit for us. On top of that, being a symphonic metal band,
it’s difficult to incorporate the orchestral elements into a live setting with very few
people in the band. This is what we are currently working on as part of our rehearsal
schedule.

11. Lyrically, what themes or concepts do you explore in your songs, and how do they relate to
your personal experiences and emotions?
• Hayley: The three most recent songs have explored different aspects of loss and
grief. Oblivion, In Time and Fallen Angel are three connected songs released as a
trilogy. Oblivion is about the numbness of grief, In Time is coming to terms with loss
and finding hope for the future. Fallen Angel is about seeing the lies and betrayal. I
wrote all three songs surrounding a bad break-up and they are the first songs I’ve
written that I’ve felt an overwhelming emotional connection to.
• Chris: For me personally, lyrics always come last when I write a song. It’s the music
that guides the theme for the lyrics and I wrote to match how the song makes me
feel.

12. Could you delve into the instrumentation and techniques used by the band to create your
unique symphonic metal sound?
• Charlie: Riff, chord structure, song structure, twiddly bits, lyrics, orchestra. In that
order.

13. What are your long-term ambitions for Hail, both in terms of musical achievements and
personal growth as artists?
Jake: Long term we would like to be playing festivals regularly every year
• Hayley: I would definitely like to see us gigging regularly and creating new music
together.
• Chris: On a personal level, I’m really enjoying the challenge of arranging the songs for
an orchestra. Some sections have really taken me out of my comfort zone and I’m
pleased with the results.

14. How do you connect with your fans, and what role do they play in shaping your journey as a
band?
• Jake: Social media has a massive part to play with us connecting to fans everywhere
they are as much a part of the band as we are and want to get them involved any
which way we can

15. What do you think of the South of England's metal scene, and how do you see Hail
contributing to it in the future?
• Hayley: There’s definitely a big community out there, supporting all sub-genres of
metal. I’m personally looking forward to getting out there and making connections
with other musicians and music fans, and just generally having fun.

16. Finally, is there a message you'd like to convey to your current and future fans as you
continue to evolve and make music as Hail?
• Jake: Get ready we are all going on an adventure!

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Interview Fake Figures

"From Within," the upcoming EP by Fake Figures, delves into personal struggles and emotions. In this interview, Steve and Travis discuss the EP's inspiration, musical evolution, and what fans can expect in the near future. Dive into the band's introspective journey and their passion for creating meaningful music.

1. Congratulations on the upcoming EP, 'From Within.' Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind the title and the overall theme of the EP?
Steve - Thanks so much! "From Within" is essentially a blend of my feelings and personal struggle put to song. I wouldn't say there is an overall theme to the Ep, I just wrote the songs to reflect how they made me feel at the time I was writing them.

2. "Miasmatic" is your latest single. Could you share the story behind this track and what it means to you personally?
Steve - Miasmatic speaks to the frustration I have with society these days. I feel like there's so much "noise" out there, that it's difficult to sift through the toxic mess that is constantly pushed down our throats, through social media, news outlets, and the political agendas of the elite.

3. This EP marks the debut of Steve Ludwig as the band's vocalist. What prompted this transition from drummer to frontman, and how has it influenced your approach to the music?
Travis - It was basically the most logical step to take after we parted ways with Rus. Steve did a fair share of background vocals and harmonies on our previous releases so it was kind of a no-brainer. Steve’s range as a vocalist is really broad. He can do it all.

4. Your sound has been described as a fusion of heavy rock with experimental elements. Can you elaborate on how you've evolved your sound over the years and what sets 'From Within' apart from your previous releases?
Travis - I think we’ve had a very slow evolution in sound and vibe. I think the music gets more interesting and clever with every release without making too many hard left turns.

5. What was the creative process like while working on 'From Within'? Are there any memorable moments or challenges you faced during the recording and production?
Travis - I kinda just pick up a guitar with no real agenda and play/write. We have a friend who helps us demo out songs as we write them. He throws in his two cents and helps guide us if needed, but for the most part, I put blinders on and just play. Steve had his work cut out for him when writing vocals. The riffs I write are a little unorthodox and left-of-center, so it was a bit of a challenge for him. When all was said and done, he succeeded with flying colors.

6. Can you share any anecdotes from your time in the studio with producer Kris Comeaux and mastering by Mike Kalajian?
Travis - We’ve known and have worked with Kris for a number of years now. We all came up in the same “scene”. He’s familiar with how we work and understands what we’re trying to do.

7. 'From Within' is your first release since 2019's 'We Are The Dead.' How has the band evolved musically and personally during this hiatus?
Travis - We had a bit of a lineup change, so that throws a new dynamic into the equation. As we touched on before, Steve Ludwig has moved from behind the drum kit to being the frontman. Our new drummer Matt Horwitz comes from the OC scene as well. He kills it.

8. The tracklist for 'From Within' includes songs like "Burn The Tyrants," "Best Intentions," and "Polymer." Can you give us a glimpse into the lyrical themes of these tracks and what inspired them?
Steve - As I said above, the inspiration for all of these tracks is simply me. What's going on in my head at any given time. My feelings about myself, the world we live in, and the struggle in between.

9. Fake Figures has garnered a solid fanbase on Spotify. How do you feel about the response to your music and the impact it has had on your journey as a band?
Travis - Bob Bradley and I started Fake Figures with no real agenda or expectations. It’s basically a passion project for fun. We aren’t expecting world domination or anything like that, but the fact that we actually do have a modest fan base is really cool.

10. You've described your sound as influenced by bands like Alice In Chains and Queens of the Stone Age. What other artists or genres have played a significant role in shaping your music?
Travis - All of us have a broad range of influences. Stoner/doom, hardcore, metal, ambient, punk, pop…it’s all in there.

11. Travis, as a guitarist, what gear and equipment do you find essential to achieving your signature sound in Fake Figures?
Travis - I’ve never been much of a gear nerd. I do like keeping my ear to the ground as far as what’s out there gear-wise, but I don’t have an essential piece of gear that I absolutely must have. Usually, it’s just whatever sounds good to my ear at the time.

12. Steve, now as the vocalist, how do you approach songwriting and performing differently compared to your previous role as the drummer?
Steve - Well, when I was drumming for the band, the songs were written mostly by Travis, and then he would bring them to the table, Rus would write the lyrics, and we would all throw our own magic in there. Moving up front, I'm now in charge of writing the lyrics(mostly), and creating the overall vibe of the track. It's been a challenge, but also great to get back behind the mic. Performing these songs won't be much different, other than the obvious, I'm sure I'll be just as gross and sweaty as I was from behind the drum kit.

13. The lyric video for "Miasmatic" was directed by David Provan. Can you share more about the creative collaboration for this video and its significance to the song?
Steve - David was someone that we met through Travis' and Atreyu's experience using him on videos they had done previously. As a band we all agreed that his work was amazing, and we knew he was the guy. We sent David the artwork and a few promo photos, and he got to work. As far as creative collaboration goes, we trusted David's judgment of where to take this artistically. We sent a few notes back and forth, but overall, it was David who worked his magic.

14. Looking ahead, what are your expectations and hopes for the future of Fake Figures, both in terms of your music and live performances?
Travis - We’ve always just taken things as they come. We don’t have management or any kind of booking working for us, so it’s very DIY. Hopefully we’ll be able to garner some buzz once the EP’s out and with luck, opportunities will present themselves. We haven’t played a show with this lineup yet, so we’re all really excited to see how things pan out.

15. Can you tell us about any upcoming projects or collaborations we can expect from Fake Figures? Travis - We’re planning on releasing another EP in the near future. Most of the music has already been recorded actually. Just gotta put Steve to work on getting the vocals done. I’m out on tour with Atreyu right now, but as soon as I get back, Fake Figures will get together to start rehearsing for some live shows in October.

16. Finally, what message do you hope listeners take away from 'From Within,' and what can fans look forward to from Fake Figures in the near future?
Steve - I spent a lot of time trying to dig deep and create something meaningful. I hope listeners can simply relate with the songs. Perhaps not feel like they're the only ones feeling lost, or a little broken. Sometimes it's comforting to know you're not alone, and not that misery loves company, but that there is strength in numbers. Looking forward, we are planning on playing a bunch of shows, and still have a few songs in the works.

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