Bands You Should Know

Interview: Chase Baldwin of The Lucidia Project

December 19, 2023 — Leave a comment

The Lucidia Project is a metal outfit hailing from North Dakota. The band stands out with their unique blend of hard-hitting riffs, atmospheric stylings, and orchestral elements. Thus far, The Lucidia Project has released a self-titled EP (2022) and The Requiem EP (2023).

I recently chatted with lead vocalist/pianist Chase Baldwin about the founding of The Lucidia Project, their purpose, influences, and writing/recording process, as well as what’s next for the band.

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Mostly Music: First and foremost, thank you for reaching out!!!! Tell me about the formation of The Lucidia Project, and the story behind the band name (it’s rather unique).

Chase Baldwin: Thank you so much for interviewing us and for following us on Facebook! We really appreciate the support you are showing us!

The Lucidia Project was an idea that I had been thinking about for 15 years, so… a very long time, I know! I wrote songs for a demo EP back in the spring and summer of 2022, because I felt like in order for me to describe what I wanted musically for this band, I needed to provide sort of a template before showing it to anyone else. I met Benjamin Jacobs (our bassist live, but he plays guitars for us in the studio), through a website called Band Mix. I showed him early versions of the songs I was working on, and he loved the idea, and the two of us decided to start working together. I’ve been waiting a long time to find the right person creatively to collaborate with on original songs, and Ben has been amazing to work with!

The name kind of has a deeper meaning for me. Lucidia is a name that’s derived from the Latin word Lucida, which means “light, brightness, clarity,” and “distant star” in some translations. Our lyrical content focuses on some pretty heavy and dark emotional topics. These topics include trauma, addiction, wider political issues, abuse, darkness, depression, etc. The goal for me lyrically is to shine light upon these topics. Through our music, I am not only healing myself but also helping other people from their own personal struggles (at least that’s my hope). That’s where the “project” part comes in. “To shine light upon darkness” is, in essence, what The Lucidia Project is all about. 

MM: Y’all definitely blend a plethora of subgenres in your music. Who are the band’s biggest influences? Do y’all come from similar musical backgrounds, or did you have to bring stylistic differences together in order to find your sound?

CB: We are a fusion metal and alternative rock project. Stylistically, it’s a mix of dark metal (gothic, doom, and some death metal), alternative rock/metal, indie singer/songwriter influences (think Tori Amos and Natalie Merchant), as well as symphonic and orchestral influences as well. 

Ben and I kind of approach things from two different angles. I’m more influenced by the metal and sort of the darker elements of this project, Ben brings in a lot more of the alternative rock side (think Primus, Placebo, early Tool, Stone Temple Pilots), so we try and create this juxtaposition with the darker elements of metal and alt rock with the more vulnerable and sensitive piano singer/songwriter moments. The orchestral elements are there to add emotional depth to our music. All of this is meant to carry the lyrics and add deeper meaning to the project as a whole. 

Ben and I are both classically trained musicians and have taken collegiate level music theory and composition courses. So we are able to construct pieces while speaking the same musical language, which helps us communicate our differences stylistically as well. Dan and Chris, who are both on guitars (lead and rhythm, respectively) step in usually once Ben and I have laid down the ground work or the blue print for the songs, and they help us figure out things like riffs, phrasing, and such. 

MM: So I’m curious if you’ve had vocal classes of any sort? Because you do some really cool things with your voice, and have moments that are almost…operatic? It sounds so beautiful with the piano.

CB: I was training to be an opera singer when I was in college. I really wanted to just be a composer, but I was encouraged to go the vocal performance route. I almost finished my bachelor’s of music degree, but I switched to nursing before my final year of study. 

MM: I can certainly hear that training. You guys just released The Requiem EP in September. What was the writing and recording process for that record? 

CB: The writing process was mostly a collaborative effort between Ben and me. Chris also contributed melodic ideas, as well as the spoken word part in the song “Requiem.” We wrote and produced that EP before Dan became part of our group, so unfortunately, he’s not on it, but he has contributed to future music. 

A couple of songs started out with just me at the piano completing the structure and then arranging them for the band to then add additional riffs, bass lines, and melodic ideas. We had two songs (“Eventide” and “Deliverances”) that were only fragments. Ben stepped in and helped me to complete those two structurally. And then I wrote the interlude by myself.

We recorded it out of my home studio. I did the initial engineering on it and then sent it to Danny Meyer of the German metal band Oversense to help with the post production on it. 

MM: Do you have a song from the EP that is your favorite, whether because you connect to it more than the others or because it’s just a cool track? 

CB: Ben and Chris love “Requiem” (the lead track) because it’s fun to play. I know that Dan has a handful of favorites, so he doesn’t have anything specific. My favorite is “The End of the Lies.” Because I get to be loud and angry, LOL. It was a very cathartic release for me lyrically. 

MM: Did you always want to be a musician? (That may seem like an obvious question, given that you’re classically trained and studied music theory/composition, but some people use those studies for other paths in the musical world.)

CB: Ben started taking being a musician seriously at around 14 or 15 and knew this is what he wanted to do. His dad was in a band and he wanted to be part of something like that.

Me, I’ve always sang, and while I started playing piano when I was 9, I didn’t want to start being a musician professionally until I realized I could write my own songs when I was 16 years old.

MM: Do you remember what made you want to play music for a living?

CB: I remember wanting to write songs that touched people’s lives, and expressed who I was as a person. The side of me that most people don’t really get to see. I am really good at being fake happy, and pretending to be ok when I’m actually not. Music and lyric writing has always been my way of confronting myself with the truth. Then based on the messages in my lyrics, making choices in my life that lead me to a better place. So it’s more therapy for me than anything else. 

Ben has always had a major passion for music, and playing it, so it’s just been natural for him to progress down that road. Ben also plays multiple instruments from guitar to piano to bass, so he can see things from many different angles musically. He’s kind of this musical polymath and his love for it shows in his dedication to his playing. 

MM: What would be your dream lineup, if The Lucidia Project could play with anyone? 

CB: It can be hard to find people who you love playing music with and who are good people to boot. The people in this band are talented and well trained musicians with big hearts, I couldn’t ask for better people to play with. As far as drummers go, we are without one, so my fantasy drummer would be either Will Hunt from Evanescence or Markus Hirvonen from Insomnium.

MM: I see that y’all have been added to a lot of playlists this year, as well as doing interviews and being picked up by radio stations. This may be a generic question, but how did it feel the first time you heard yourself on the radio? How much does it inspire y’all when you see these representations of your music reaching people and catching on? 

CB: Scary! I’m a very private person but decided to start putting myself out there last year vocally, so it’s kind of surreal that so many people have heard my voice and my lyrics. And all of our playing as well. It was weird hearing myself on the radio. Exciting but still weird. I’m still getting used to it. It’s validating, though. It means that the vision for this band is strong and that people get it.

MM: And last but not least, what are your plans for the rest of 2023 and into the new year?

CB: Writing! We are working on a lot of new music and making plans for 2024 and 2025! 

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Do yourself a favor and check out The Lucidia Project on their various socials and your favorite streaming platform. If you are a fan of Evanescence, Apocalyptica, Nightwish, and the like, you will definitely enjoy this band. I will share links and include my favorite songs below!

Two of my favorite tracks:

Interview: Naked Sunday

December 5, 2023 — 1 Comment

Naked Sunday is a hard rock band from The Midlands. The quartet formed in 2012, but their lineup wasn’t settled until 2018. They have since released two albums – Signs of Insanity (2020) and Home (2022) – and one EP, 2021’s Skeleton Keys. More recently, Naked Sunday’s track “Lilith” was featured in John Williams’ film Tales of the Creeping Death.

I was fortunate enough to have the chance to talk to bassist Corty Lou about the band’s inception, influences, the latest singles – “Vilified” and “Shine” – and more!

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So tell me, how did Naked Sunday form? And how did y’all decide on the band name?

Corty Lou: Naked Sunday formed around 2012 but became the established lineup it is today in 2018, after much hard work and the release of our first album, Signs of Insanity. The name was based on the Stone Temple Pilots song “Naked Sunday” – we enjoyed how the two words just fitted well together, and of course, it leaves a lot to interpretation.

Who are Naked Sunday’s biggest influences? 

CL: As for myself, it would be Motley Crue/Sixx AM, [vocalist/guitarist] Martin’s would be Guns N Roses, [lead guitarist] Alex loves UFO, and [drummer] Liam loves the Foo Fighters, but collectively we all love Queen. We don’t like to make the same record, and much like Queen, we set out to be different from everyone else (especially on our local scene). 

Do you remember the moment you realized you wanted to play music for a living? Was there a specific band/artist that made you think “I have to do that”?

CL: I think the second I heard Queen and picked up a guitar, I wanted to perform and make music. It was an instant callin. The first time I could play a few chords, I was writing my own songs, and that love of music and creating is still with me.

What is the writing/recording process for the band?

CL: As a band, we do all write together. Sometimes Martin will come in with some chords and lyrics and it’s almost a full written song, but the band put their stamp on it, myself and Alex usually write riffs and then at rehearsal, Liam will piece them together and we will structure the song as we see fit. A lot of the time we will work a song, such as a new one we are working on at the moment called “LEGION,” by road testing them, and doing demos so we all have structures to work to, or that we can edit and say this may work better. We also share Whatsapp videos of riffs, etc., so Martin can start writing lyrics, or Liam has a heads up so he can develop the feel of the track on the drums.

I want to talk about the latest singles, “Vilified” and “Shine.” Can you share the story behind each of those tracks? 

CL: They sit like a brother and sister track to us. “Vilified” is definitely Martin’s baby lyrically. It is about others trying to turn people against you because you have passion or drive. Martin faces a lot of criticism because he is driven and gets great results. It’s a middle finger to the high school bully, the rogue workmate that isn’t a mate, the people in the pub who laugh behind your back but are friendly to your face – it’s a song for the working man.

“Shine” is a different kettle of fish. It is about wanting someone to succeed, totally the opposite of “Vilified.” It’s about rooting for the one you love, wanting them to be the best possible person they can be and the best gift to the world they can be. It’s a delicate number with some of Alex’s best guitar work, and we have to give credit to Miguel Seco, who produced these songs. Without his help and love, especially with “Shine,” we feel he got the best out of us (our fifth Sunday member).

With your full library in mind, do you have a song you connect with more than the others? 

CL: I think “Home” for us is something we all connect with. It was the title track to our second album and featured on Fireworks rock and metal magazines CD. It, for us, is just something that we all get lost in, and the audience loves singing the ending.  It is a song about our sleepy home town of Stafford – you want to leave, but inside your head there is no place like home. 

What is your favorite song to play live?

CL: “Lilith” is one that I think we all dig. It started out as a song I wrote on bass at a rehearsal at Neon Sound Studios in Burntwood. (Martin has a connection of writing a UK 16 Chart song here with Mike Newey the owner.) We even went back to the studio to record it. It’s a brooding dark builder with a very metal ending and the start of us moving into heavier territory. Liam helped with the structure of this, and it just is an absolute blast to play live. The song also features in the film Tales of the Creeping Death by John Williams.

That’s really cool, that you guys had a song in a film! How did that feel, when you learned it was to be used? 

CL: So the director John Williams heard “Lilith” and used it in this incredible werewolf scene. The werewolf was designed by Gary Pollard.  The film features legendary English actor Ricky Tomlinson. For us it was a dream come true, being massive horror fans. I remember Martin taking the call and jumping around being super excited,  then we learned they also added “Unbreakable.” A very surreal and beautiful moment.

Last but not least, what are the band’s plans for the rest of 2023 and into 2024? 

We have one final gig of the year left at The Dog House Stafford. It’s our normal Christmas Bash with our good friends Lungdren and Guns for Girls. Then it’s getting the mix back for our single “Web Around My Grave,” which again is a heavy number, followed by a new photoshoot and then recording the final track of our EP Rise, which is a beautiful Tom Petty style song. Then it’s back to gigging straight away around the UK, spreading our wings and following up album number 3. We also have a video to film with the talented Mr Nick J. Townsend of WEAK13, who filmed “Vilified.”

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Things are moving fast for Naked Sunday! You can keep up with all their news, gig announcements, and music by following their socials, and be sure to give “Vilified” and “Shine” a listen on your favorite streaming service!

Interview: Ryan Henry of We Are The Virus

November 21, 2023 — Leave a comment

We Are The Virus is a project from Louisiana that spans metal and all of its subgenres. Front man, and sole permanent member, Ryan Henry brought WATV to life in the wake of Covid, as a way to vent the emotions of everyday life.

I was given the opportunity to talk to Ryan about the beginnings of We Are The Virus, the inspiration behind the music, the latest album, Civil Disobedience, and more.

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How was We Are The Virus formed, and what’s the story behind the name?

Ryan: The, let’s call it “project,” of WATV formed in early 2021, basically out of a Covid-ridden landscape. I had played guitar for most of my life – close to 25 years – and never really attempted a project “solo”. I was 2 years out of a divorce, and my (now) wife had been pushing me to really get back to my musical roots. Really connect back with the music again. We had made it a huge part of our relationship, and she could see how much playing and creating meant to me. She pushed me back into it, and I dove in head first. The name was actually a suggestion from one of the collaborators on the album, Mike O’Brien (Texas Murder Crew; who is also a firefighter as I am). The name really RESONATED crazily with me – I’ve worked in hazardous material response for most of my adult life and was an extreme zombie movie fanatic for years, so it truly fit.  

Who are your major influences? Did you and the others involved all come from similar musical backgrounds, or did you have to blend different influences into the sound y’all have created?

Ryan: The collaborators on the album Civil Disobedience have SIMILAR backgrounds; however, the difference in proximity to each other has for sure played a huge influence.  I collaborated with Mike O’Brien and Aaron Bazen (Truth and Tragedy) on the album. Both had the heavy musical influence, but the direction was different. Mike being from a Slam/Deathcore background and Aaron being from a Hardcore background brought a few different flavors to the mix. I am the sole constant member in the band, but I feel like it’s very important to fill in my gaps with someone able to express their 100% creative freedom. And I’m lucky to have worked with these two because of the sheer ethic and drive they both have. 

Speaking of Civil Disobedience, it was released back in August. Can you tell me a little about the writing and recording process for the album?

Ryan: The writing and recording process for Civil Disobedience was a huge hurdle for me. After being guided into the musical process again by my wife, it was a gateway of emotional sputum. I did not realize what I had inside after my career of firefighting and going through life changes that needed to come out. My writing process was pretty erratic. I didn’t know when or why; however, when it felt as if it needed to come out, it was TIME. There were many times my wife and I were having a normal day together, and I would tell her, “Hey, I need to play, it needs to come out.” Most of the songs were put together quickly, like when it was time to happen, it got spewed out onto the page. 

How do you feel your career as a firefighter influences your music?

Ryan: My career, as much as I hate to admit, probably has influenced my music quite a bit. There’s a lot of really dark shit to deal with in emergency response. I’ve seen a lot of death, sometimes natural, sometimes not, but on the contrary, I’ve also been a part of saving lives. It’s an extreme polar bounce of emotions thinking of how it could have influenced. There was one really particular incident where my music and response crossed inadvertently. Years ago, without giving too many details, we worked a fatal car accident involving a young teenage driver. While I had been into heavy music most of my life at this point, I noticed in the deceased’s vehicle there was an album in the back seat, an album that I also owned at the time. That call has always haunted me for many reasons, but the connection of music between the driver and us trying to save them has really stuck with me. Sorry for being vague! It’s out of respect for the patient.

Let’s talk further back. What was it that first inspired you to create? Was there any particular band/artist, or a moment you remember thinking “that’s what I want to do”?

Ryan: To create, I feel like the best answer to this is the feeling or need to express. Behaviorally, I do feel I’ve always been reserved and almost empathetic or too in tune with how others are feeling or have felt. Creation and expression of the music reverses that for those moment and makes me feel powerful. Mentally, it’s helped me considerably to each day take time out to work on music and gotten me back on a track where I’m feeling confident and as if I can take on the world. Growing up, there was a turning point as far as artists that really inspired me. I grew up listening to my dad’s vinyl collection of Deep Purple, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and ZZ Top.  These bands paved the way for me to get into Black Sabbath and the darker aspects of music. But two bands really solidified me and inspired me to play, and those were Metallica and Korn. These two bands made me want to pick up a guitar every day and play, particularly Metallica’s The Black Album, and Korn’s Life is Peachy.

While we’re discussing your musical tastes, I have to ask, just for fun, is there anyone you listen to that you think would surprise people?

Ryan: Well, as a teenager, I would never have admitted any sort of guilty pleasure. You know, the older I get – I really start to feel like none of my musical pleasure should be guilty (although it could be slightly embarrassing). I love the band The Police. Copeland was an amazing drummer, and I focus on it each time I hear the music. Also, country artist, if you would really call it that, Cody Jinks. Cody Jinks has some really deep stuff. He has very obviously been through some shit in his life, and his song “David” always strikes a cord with me because of my emergency response background. Essentially he, as a police officer, responds to the death of a childhood friend.  Listen to the song and really explore it lyrically, really great stuff. 

As far as songs that resonate, which one of your own tracks from the new album do you connect with the most? (If there is such a song.)

Ryan: “One Dark Highway,” without a doubt. Musically, the song was written at a super low point. It was my droning song to myself about being in the middle of a dark intersection in the middle of nowhere. Looking in all directions with no headlights, just darkness and a chill in the air. Lyrically, I had given Mike O’Brien the name of the song, and he wrote the corresponding lyrics without any sort of prompt from me other than the name, and the lyrics just sent it right home. “So I walk on this highway, searching for a change” gives me chills and is my favorite, beyond a shadow of a doubt. 

What are your plans for the rest of 2023 and beyond?

Ryan: The rest of 2023 is getting used to the live performance aspect of the album. Generally I’ll just play the guitars live with a backing track.  I’ve lined up some shows and am hammering out all of the kinks of performance like that.  It’s still absolutely crazy to me when I see people vibing to the music I’m playing because it seems surreal.  It was selfishly in a way written for me to get my emotional crap out, but people are resonating with it, and it’s odd to get used to it, but I love it. 

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We Are The Virus dropped the debut album Civil Disobedience on August 18th. You can stream it here.

Listen to Ryan’s favorite track:

Interview: Sever Red

November 13, 2023 — Leave a comment

Sever Red is a rock/metal band that is just getting started. Having begun their formation in spring of 2023, this heavy-hitting quartet has made the most of the intervening months. Two singles, “Forever Changed” and “Desperation,” were released this fall, and their debut EP, Sick & Tormented, will be dropping in January 2024.

I recently had a chat with the band, which consists of front man Kevin Riner, guitarist Josiah Wilder, drummer Kenny Shillingburg, and bassist Stephen Mauk. Buckle up, because here’s your crash course on Sever Red!

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First and foremost, how did the band come together, and what’s the story behind the name “Sever Red”?

Kevin: The band started with just me having a vision and wanting to write the best EP possible to give myself a real shot at chasing my lifelong dream of being a professional musician for a living. I wrote everything myself, got some demos together, and sent them to a producer named Josh Schroeder, who is absolutely one of the best producers in the United States. (Just my opinion!) Long story short, a 5 song EP was created, and then came the time for me to look for band members so I could get this thing really going. I feel like you have to play live to really get your name out there. In my opinion, there is no better way to grow an organic growing fanbase than playing live shows and connecting with real people. 

That being said, my great friend Caleb got me in touch with Josiah, who knew I needed a guitarist, and after a 45-minute phone call discussing our visions and goals as musicians, we agreed we would love to meet up to jam and see what happens. That jam session went great, and then the guitarist spot in Sever Red was filled!

Stephen and I used to play in a band together about a decade ago, and after not really keeping in touch, I decided to see if he would be interested in joining the project. After a couple of conversations discussing details, the goals and aspirations we both had, everything aligned, and then the bass position was filled! 

As for Kenny, he always told me he had my back when I was ready to get this project going. Like Stephen and I, Kenny and I go back about a decade as well, and we used to also play shows together. He was in another band, and I always admired his drumming skill, and I knew he would be my go-to guy whenever I was to start my own project. Not only is he a great drummer, but he is a solid dude and friend. Fast forward to now, the project started up and he agreed to be in the band. That is a quick summary of how Sever Red came to be about!

As for the story behind the name, it simply was one of the least cringe band names I could think of that didn’t completely suck. But it also did sort of have a meaning to it. My thought process was it means to not hold onto anger in life because nothing but bad things can come from that. Hence, the name “Sever” and “Red” which is usually a color metaphor for anger. Nothing too deep with the band name. It just sounded halfway decent compared to all my other ideas!

Who would you say are the band’s major influences? And when y’all got together, were you all headed in the same direction, or were you working with different musical backgrounds/influences?

Kevin: I definitely would have to say one of my biggest influences to even start writing music was Shaun Morgan from Seether. I always admired his style of songwriting, and most importantly, his genuine and sincere approach to writing music. His vocal delivery I always thought was honest, and you could feel what he is trying to express to you in his songs, whether it’s pain or sadness. It’s real.  I have so many other influences besides that as well, but I would say he’s my biggest influence.

Josiah: I can hear a variety of influences from bands such as Red, Seether, and sections of Bullet For My Valentine. I believe we all have separate musical influences. My own inspirations come from both classical and modern genres. I believe Kevin has a similar background as well. Even with broad influences, we seem to have a cohesive approach to writing music.

Kenny: Bands I would say I am influenced by are Avenged Sevenfold, August Burns Red, and After the Burial.

On a related note, is there any band or artist you listen to (are influenced by) that might surprise your listeners? 

Kevin: Good question! An influence that might surprise people is I really love a lot of heavy music as well. I am a big fan of Knocked Loose and The Color Morale. I also am a huge fan of Black Stone Cherry, and I would say they are definitely an influence. I have always admired how they can be so heavy at times while also making you cry your eyes out with other songs they have written. The soulful voice of Chris Robertson is an example of one my favorite types of singing voices. I also have recently been diving into Otis Redding and his discography. It’s good stuff!

Josiah: Anytime I would go to write, there tends to be a visual in mind. Additionally, I’m a huge Mark Tremonti and Brian Haner Jr. fan. The nuances in my playing favor them both pretty often when writing.

What is the writing and recording process for Sever Red? From where do y’all draw most of your inspiration?

Kevin: The writing and recording process is usually demoing in my little home studio. Usually getting the bones and basic idea of what the song will sound like. I have always written the music first, and depending on the mood of the music, that dictates the lyrics and what they will be about.  All of my lyrics come from life experiences. Since Josiah has joined, he and I will send back and forth files or voice memos and then collaborate in that way.

Josiah: Voice memos. Lots of voice memos. I have an in-house studio for writing and recording, and I believe Kevin does as well. If an idea comes to mind, I’ll typically just send Kevin the thought and bounce ideas back and forth.

Y’all have released two singles this year, “Forever Changed” and, more recently, “Desperation.” Can you tell me the stories behind these songs?

Kevin: “Forever Changed” was written about my dad. He died when I was 15 due to alcoholism. The song sort of tells a story of watching him grow up, and watching him struggle with alcoholism, and then the aftermath of losing him. It’s just an acknowledgment of the realness of addiction and the consequences, while also being an acknowledgment that I just miss him so much. 

“Desperation” was written from another sort of dark place, if I’m being blunt. It is sort of a cry for help, I suppose. I am acknowledging my own issues with substance abuse, depression, and anxiety and feeling that there is no way out. Hence the song name.

You mentioned that you feel playing live is the best way to get your name out there and grow a fan base. How do you feel that playing live and writing music are connected? When you write, do you think about how it will translate live?

Kevin: When I write, I don’t necessarily think about how it will translate live. When I’m writing lyrics, for example, I am usually just in hyperfocus mode trying to get my genuine feelings out of whatever I’m feeling at the time, and I don’t like to force anything. When I’m writing the musical parts, I do sometimes think to myself “Damn, this could sound really sick live,” but that is definitely not the main focus. My main focus when writing is to just write the best song that I can while keeping it raw and genuine. So, to sum it up, I don’t really think about how it will sound live in the initial creation process. It’s hard to tell how it will sound live until you get together with the guys and feel the energy of the song in rehearsals. That’s when you can really tell how it will translate into a live setting.

Josiah: For me, it’s the delivery. When someone connects to a song or part of a song, it delivers something specific to that person. So, to experience that live is quite surreal considering there are numerous other people in the room feeling the same thing at the same time, just amplified. However, I don’t consciously consider the live performance as a part of my writing process. I try to really focus on the purpose of the song to express it accordingly. The live experience is to share that purpose and energy of the song in person.

Kenny: If you can get a special feeling while you’re writing a song, you just know it’s going to translate live. The energy behind the feeling of the music really shines through to the crowd and hopefully makes them feel something with how passionate you are.

All of you seem quite passionate about the live aspect. What is your favorite thing about performing? 

Kevin: My favorite thing about performing is to see the reactions of the crowd and how they react to something we created that means so much to me. When you see people really vibing to the music, it really gives you a sense of accomplishment and makes everything worth it. All the days and nights, trying to write the best songs we can, it all comes together once we see the reactions from the listeners. When people tell you how much a song means to them, it’s honestly a feeling I can’t quite put into words. It’s a great feeling.

Josiah: To witness the reactions. Seeing the faces of the crowd and their response to the music. It’s as much of a payment as anything to know the audience is really connected with the experience in that moment.

Kenny: The best things about performing are seeing how everyone is enjoying all of your hard work, and the looks on faces when people can relate to the lyrics or when they’re just feeling the groove of the song. It’s very rewarding.

You guys have an extensive list of influences, and it seems y’all could fit in with several different genres, so I have to ask: what would be your dream tour lineup? Sever Red and…?

Kevin: Sever Red, Staind, Seether, 3 Doors Down and Breaking Benjamin

Josiah: Sever Red, Tremonti, Breaking Benjamin, and Seether.

Kenny: Sever Red, Bring Me the Horizon, Breaking Benjamin, and Spiritbox

And last but not least, what are the band’s plans for the remainder of 2023 and into early 2024?

Kevin: Play as many shows as we possibly can and to have as many people as possible listen to our music! Also, a lot of writing, and then hopefully to keep the momentum going with new music!

Josiah: I believe we will have continued rehearsals to keep sharp for future show opportunities. I plan to write with Kevin and the group and keep working on new material.

Kenny: Rest of 2023 to rehearse and tighten up/gel as a band. 2024? World domination.

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You can check out “Forever Changed” and “Desperation” here, and be sure to follow Sever Red on all their socials to keep up with what they’re doing!

Interview: Matty Corvin of Corvin’s Breed

November 6, 2023 — Leave a comment

Corvin’s Breed is an industrial metal band from New England that formed in 2014. Since then, Corvin’s Breed has released one EP, I’m Not Normal, and a full-length album entitled The Witching Hour. The band is set to hit the road this November/December with Psyclon Nine, Clockwork Echo, and Guillotine.

I had the opportunity to chat with vocalist Matty Corvin for a little Corvin’s Breed 101.

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First, I would just like to thank you for your time. I’m going to start with something very basic. How was the band formed, and what’s the story behind the name?

Matty: The band was formed in 2014. I always found crows to be very fascinating because people don’t seem to talk about them, but they’re very important as they like to feast off of the flesh of carcasses. They’re creatures I always felt a connection with in my personal life. I figured this is my vision, this is my breed, and the people that get it are part of it as well. 

Was there always a common vision among the band members, or did y’all have to mesh a variety of influences and musical backgrounds?

MC: I wanted this to be something refreshing. I never thought this to be a band that’s set out to sound like a certain band in particular. I thought “if it’s already out there, why should I recreate it?” I just wanted to stick out like a sore thumb, so visual aesthetics were always crucial. I just tried to find like-minded musicians who were influenced by Alice Cooper, White Zombie, and Static-X. Those were the bands that really understood the concept of being original and entertaining an audience. If you were to look through my library there’s such a wide variety of bands and artists you would come across that probably wouldn’t match up to what this whole thing is. 

Speaking of influences, who are your biggest ones, personally? And carrying that a step further, what (or who) was it that inspired you to pursue a career in music? 

MC: Music was always playing in the house growing up. My mom was really into the 80s hair metal stuff like Poison, Mötley Crüe, Ratt. 

I remember watching the music television channel on TV with her, and all these bands were super flashy with their hair all done up with crazy outfits, and those guys had a lot of talent. Music was something I was always attracted to but it wasn’t until I saw Poison live when I was about 7 years old that I realized this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life and I just went balls to the wall with it since. 

Can you tell me a little bit about the band’s writing and recording process? 

MC: The music always comes first when it comes to writing, before any vocals or lyrics. As much as I love intricate music, I like to simplify it. I want to make people dance and have a good time. I feel like once you start adding offbeat stuff and weird time signatures, people lose interest, as much as I love that stuff. I’d rather see people moving on the dance floor. Adding elements of other genres to the mix has always been something I like to do. 

With imagery playing a huge role in the band, and with the overall subject matter and just…aura…of the band, I have to assume you’re a horror fan. Is that correct?

MC: Absolutely! I would say horror and comedy are two things that sum up my entire entity. Those are two extremes of entertainment that make you feel something and can’t be taken seriously, and I find that to be really interesting. 

That’s a topic we’ll have to revisit when we have more time, because I can talk horror for hours. Moving right along, what is your favorite of the songs you’ve written, if you have one? And why do you connect with it the most? 

MC: That’s a really tough question. There’s a lot of songs we have that are really personal to me. Music is all about expression, so I like to write about experiences that I’ve gone through in hopes that someone listening can relate and maybe it will help them get through a similar situation. But to answer your question, I really don’t have a favorite.

Y’all are about to set out on the Infection Divinum Tour with Psyclon Nine, Clockwork Echo, and Guillotine. How do you feel about this? I know y’all toured with Psyclon Nine earlier this year. Are you excited to be on the road with them again?

MC: Yes, very excited. Those guys have been nothing but great to us. Nero and I go way back, and it’s always an absolute pleasure working with him. We [Corvin’s Breed] seem to have gathered quite the following. Myself as well as the rest of the band are looking forward to seeing familiar faces and reconnecting with the fans.

What is your favorite thing about performing live? 

MC: There’s nothing like putting on the face and becoming this monster that I have created for myself. It’s very therapeutic for me. I could have had a falling out with a friend, or even had a death in the family, and I had to put on a show right after, and I just let all of that energy out. There’s nothing like the feeling of tapping into your inner self and showing that to other people that probably had those same issues and a smile or a nod is a way of saying “I get you”. And then when that’s all over and done with, you have fans that thank you, and I think that’s the most rewarding part.

Still on the topic of live shows, what would your dream lineup (that includes Corvin’s Breed) be? 

MC: I think a tour with Rob Zombie and Corvin’s Breed would be a cool show to see. 

What are the band’s plans for the rest of the year and into 2024?

MC: We will have a couple singles coming out really soon, along with a couple music videos. That will be followed up by a new album called MISANTHROPY, which will be released early 2024. Hopefully there will be more touring, but there’s nothing in the works as we speak.

Is there any message you’d like to give your fans, both current and future?

MC: Thank you for all your support. We can’t wait to see everyone on the road.

**

Be sure to check out Corvin’s Breed on the road this fall. The Infection Divinum xx Annos Tour kicks off November 15th in San Francisco, CA. (For a full list of dates, visit this post.)

You can keep up with all things Corvin’s Breed by following them on their various socials and streaming platforms.

Bands You Should Know: The Space Turtles

October 23, 2023 — Leave a comment

Defining themselves as an “indie rock/funk/grunge band,” The Space Turtles hail from Long Island, New York. They are fairly new on the scene, but with their firing-on-all-cylinders determination, The Space Turtles are rapidly gaining momentum. The trio implements a variety of influences and musical backgrounds, which means you’ll hear things that are reminiscent of bands such as Weezer and Nirvana, but also Red Hot Chili Peppers, a touch of Nine Inch Nails, 311, and more!

The Space Turtles released their Tough Call EP in late 2022 and have been booking shows throughout 2023.

My favorite track from the band is “Ghost Plans,” which is the second song on the aforementioned Tough Call EP.

And, just in time for Halloween, The Space Turtles dropped “Spooky Shit,” a fun and funky song that honors all those things we love about October!

Follow The Space Turtles on their socials and your favorite streaming platforms to keep up with all the cool happenings!

Bands You Should Know: Anger Overdose

October 16, 2023 — 3 Comments

Anger Overdose is an industrial metal band with members from both Australia and the northeastern U.S. Recently, Anger Overdose combined forces with singer/songwriter Melishah, adding her standout vocals to the mix. For fans of 3Teeth, Sköld, Ludovico Technique, and the later era of KMFDM.

Anger Overdose will be releasing their next single, “Replicate,” soon. The band is also starting The AoDiscussion Live, a show on which they invite other artists to chat about various topics and just generally have a good time. The first episode will premiere on October 20th!

My personal favorite song from Anger Overdose is “Army of the Undead.” It is the third track on their 2022 album AOD.

And here is the band’s latest single, “The Game.” This Motörhead cover features Superposition.

Be sure to follow and/or subscribe to Anger Overdose on their various socials!

Bands You Should Know: Shadow Reborn

October 9, 2023 — Leave a comment

You may remember my mentioning Shadow Reborn back in May, when I wrote this review of their EP, Realm of the Wicked. Well, I’m here to insist, again, that you check out this band!

Shadow Reborn is from Florida and offers all the glitz and glam of the 80s hair metal era with the darker macabre element of bands such as The 69 Eyes, Type O Negative, and Lacrimosa. A self-proclaimed theatrical goth metal act, this quintet has time traversing imagery, lyrics that delve straight into the human psyche, heavy riffs, and catchy anthemic choruses. Thus far, they have released two EPs – Intricacies (2015) and Realm of the Wicked (2022) – and several singles.

Below are my favorite track from Shadow Reborn, as well as their most recent single, and links to their socials. Be sure to follow them to keep up with any news, show announcements, and/or music releases.

My favorite. This song is the fifth track on Intricacies.
“Her Mortal Embrace” was released in 2021 and appears on Realm of the Wicked.

Interview: Clay Soldiers

May 31, 2023 — Leave a comment

Clay Soldiers hail from the UK and blend elements of alternative, grunge, and stoner rock in their music. Formed in 2020, the band consists of vocalist/guitarist Leon, bassist Stu, and drummer Pablo. They have already seen a few notable achievements, including 16,000+ all-time streams across the various services and listeners in forty different countries.

I recently chatted with Clay Soldiers about their backgrounds in music, influences, playing live, and their debut EP, Life After Death.

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First and foremost, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule for this interview. Let’s start with the story behind the band’s name. I always find those interesting.

Stu: Initially, we were talking about Greek mythology and we were looking for names along the lines of mythological beasts and history. However, Leon states that “Clay Soldiers” came from the idea that people are molded in terms of their way of thinking, their resilience – they are not as strong as they think they are and are made to believe they are invincible.

Clay Soldiers’ sound encompasses multiple styles. Who are the band’s influences?

Stu: Our biggest influences are the bands and sounds of the 90s, such as Soundgarden, Alice in Chains, Stone Temple Pilots, Queens of the Stone Age, and Faith No More. We also take inspiration from classic rock, like Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin, and lately we’ve drawn from some newer bands on the scene, particularly our friends in Dunes, The Grudge, and High Desert Queen, in terms of their performance and style.

So, if you don’t mind, can you tell me how you got started in music? What made you decide this is what you wanted to do?

Stu: We have always been interested in music in a big way. However, truly thinking about it, we lived through the 80s and 90s, where the music was an inspirational element in our lives. So, seeing bands that had grown considerably from the late 80s to the mid-90s and beyond, it was something that we had always felt that it wasn’t out of reach to do. It was a case of finding the instrument that we could share the rocking vibes with and over time, learning what it means to write songs, what it means to write from the heart through our own lived experiences that listeners can relate to.

And now, y’all have released your debut EP, Life After Death, and have garnered some well-deserved attention with it. Can you tell me a little about the writing and recording process? From where did y’all draw inspiration?

Stu: We tried to make music to reflect life experiences and take to heart how the lyrics can resonate to a wider audience. We wanted to write in a more thoughtful way and build connections with people as they find they can relate to it.

In terms of the recording, we often lay down all our demo stems on an app called Bandlab. It is a piece of software that really helped us to lay out and structure our ideas for the EP. The artwork was an awesome piece hand-painted by UK tattoo artist Jeep Bluezone (who is originally from Thailand). Initially, it was painted on canvas, then she offered to let us use it for the EP cover. We felt the image reflected every song on the EP, which is all about death and recovery – hence the name ‘Life After Death’. In other words, the day the world halts and then we start again.

On a personal level, what’s your favorite song on the EP?

Leon: All songs are very meaningful. If there was one overall song, I would choose “Ghost,” as that is the most epic sounding song.

Stu: I would choose “Ghost,” as it was one of the first tracks we actually wrote by accident and became one of our most evolved tracks. It has quite a cinematic, epic sound to it.

Pablo: “Ghost” for me.

I saw that you guys just played a show with Elkapath, Doomicidal, and At War With the Sun. What is your favorite thing about playing live?

Stu: That was a great show. Our favourite thing about playing live is seeing people enjoying and sharing the moments with us where the music is creating a positive atmosphere like no other. In that moment, we are family! 

And on the topic of playing live, how is playing live and writing music in the studio connected? When you write, do you think about how it will translate in a live performance? 

Stu: Everything we do in the studio is connected to live shows because  everything we work for in the studio, it all comes to a conclusion in live shows.  We want everyone to get a first glance of our music. For new fans who are seeing us for the first time, it is about how we can connect to those people and make new friends. For existing fans, it is showing how our music evolves and the fans grow with us. 

What is next for Clay Soldiers? I saw y’all hinting at new music on Facebook (I say hopefully).

Stu: Social media is a massive tool, definitely, and it is helping us to reach more people and all around the world. New music is constantly coming, new songs and new forms of composition are there, and we are taking all different styles to create our own way to make music.

What do you feel is the ultimate goal for the band?

Stu: The goal is to keep growing, musically and as a band. To be able to perform regularly. It is not about being famous but is about being original and offering something to people where they can identify. We are now at a stage where we are building a brand and we invite everyone to the opportunity to get involved and be a part of that process.

Is there any message you’d like to give your fans, old and new? 

Stu: We would wholeheartedly like to say a massive thanks with much love and respect for all the love and support everyone has shown us. Absolutely everyone is welcome to come and see us, no-one should be left out, regardless of pronoun, gender, sex, where you are from, etc. We just want everyone to be united in the moment, take care of each other and enjoy good times again! All we ask is just come and support local artists, local music! Keep the dream alive! 

And a fun question I always ask, just to wrap this up: what would your dream concert lineup be? Clay Soldiers and…?

Stu: Dream lineup… to play an international open air festival, with bands who would love to play
with Clay Soldiers! We would also absolutely love to be on the same lineup as the bands which have inspired us
from the start of our musical inception, such as Alice In Chains, Pearl Jam, Pixies, Smashing Pumpkins, Queens Of The Stone Age, Foo Fighters. Would be nice!

**

Clay Soldiers are on a steady upward trajectory, earning new fans and followers with every released single and live show. They bring the best of rock in everything they do. From what I’ve seen, the band will be giving us a taste of their darker, heavier side with their new music. Be sure to find them on Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, etc., and check them out! Here is the track that the trio voted as their favorite from Life After Death.

Interview: Stickman

April 22, 2023 — Leave a comment

Stickman is a Canadian rock band that consists of guitarist/vocalist Kim Whitford, bassist and backing vocalist Randall Taylor, and drummer Des Vegas. While their sound is heavily influenced by 90s/00s alternative rock and grunge, there is definitely an element of modern day hard rock, as well as nods to classic rock & roll.

I had fun interviewing the band. We discussed everything from influences to their songwriting process, what they love about playing live to their dream tour lineup. As you’ll see, the trio don’t always take themselves too seriously. Their talent and obvious enjoyment for what they do is what makes it work.

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Okay, first and foremost, how would you describe Stickman’s sound? If you had to actually use a genre label, what would it be?

Kim: Our sound is a blend of grunge, post-grunge and hard rock, with hints of 70s and 80s classic rock. Post-grunge is the label we identify with most.

Randall: Hard rock/Dad rock

How did the band form, and what’s the story behind the name?

Kim: Stickman was formed in 2017 by Randall and myself. Des joined in late 2017. All three members are long time school friends, who had either played in the same bands or bands that were associated with each other. The name Stickman came from a list of band names we were considering at the time and that was the one we liked best. Turns out the name is very marketable and well used, lol.

Randall: Kim and I have been in many bands together since the 90s. We had a new bunch of songs we wanted to record but didn’t have a drummer. Luckily, an old friend of ours from high school was jamming in the same rehearsal space and the space owners brought them together. Des Vegas joined and the “project” became a band. Stickman was on a long list of potential names. I just thought it looked cool to have a stickman as the “T” in the word, haha!

Who are the band’s main influences? I know late 90s/early 2000s, but who specifically?

Kim: Failure, Foo Fighters, Radiohead, Nirvana, Tool, AIC, Pink Floyd, Ocean Machine, Metallica, The Beatles

Randall: KISS, Alice In Chains, Failure, Black Sabbath

Des: Deftones, Mötley Crüe, Crosses, AIC

So, for you personally, what inspired you to get involved in music? 

Des: I was around 10 years old and my brother Aaron was playing drums. I idolized him and I wanted to do what he did. He was really the reason I picked up a pair of sticks.

Kim: I’ve had a love of music since my earliest memories. Listening to KISS albums and studying the artwork. As I got older, exploring and discovering all the greats from all genres.

Randall: Two words – KISS Alive.

What is your favorite thing about playing music? 

Des: My favorite thing about playing music is that moment when you’re on stage with your boys doing what you love and the audience responds. It’s another level.

Kim: Getting to put “my take” on music and putting it out to the universe. If someone else likes it, that’s great! If not, that’s great too!

Randall:  Interaction with the crowd and being onstage. I have a strong desire to be performing in front of people.

Tell me a little bit about the latest single, “Sacrifice.” What was the inspiration for the song? (And side note: how do y’all decide which songs to release as singles?)

Kim: Inspiration comes in many forms and from many different sources. Musically, most ideas just come out when I pick up the guitar and play. I try to keep the lyrics ambiguous so they’re open to interpretation. This song is loosely based on my feelings towards social media and the obsessiveness of it. How some people will go to great lengths to get likes and followers. We decide to release songs that “work” and we all like them. By “work”, I mean it all makes sense, musically and lyrically.

And, still on the subject of your songs, what is the song writing and recording process like for Stickman? 

Kim: I will typically record every idea I come up with. If it moves me in some way, I will flesh it out a bit before showing it to the guys. I will record a rough draft, with multiple parts and typically with drums and bass and whatever else added. We will then tear it apart and build it back up from there. There is usually a melody in mind early on, but lyrics tend to take a while in most instances.

Randall: Kim comes up with the bones of the song and then we flesh it out together in practice until we’re comfortable with all the parts. We’ve recorded in professional studios, but for the time being, Kim is acting as engineer and we’re recording all our new music ourselves.

All of you mentioned the live element as part of what you love most about music. Can you describe what a Stickman performance is like? 

Des: For me, each performance is an event. I play like I’m at a giant stadium playing the last show of my career.  

Kim: Our shows are more about the entertainment side of things. We have songs “run” into one another and add bits of other songs in between. We try to entertain instead of just going on stage and playing each song.

Randall: Surprisingly energetic for a bunch of old guys! Also, we like to keep a tight set. One song will lead to another, and even things like the tuning breaks and crowd “raps” are choreographed. We try to minimize the dead air. Quick and exciting!

When you’re writing/recording, do you think about how the songs will translate live? 

Des: Yes, I always try to think about how I’ll play live. I usually try to play more solid beats while we record, so by the time we play live, I can really ramp it up with that live energy.

Randall: I do for sure! I’m always thinking about how the songs will be played live and how they will translate to each other in the set.

Kim: Definitely. Especially the singing aspect of it. I don’t want to complicate the performance by having the singing interfere with the guitar playing I do.

What are the band’s plans for 2023? 

Des: I’m very excited to say we are in the early stages of writing the next record, and a big part of the next year will be working on that.

Kim: Get back to playing live shows and writing and starting to record our next record.

Randall: To play shows whenever possible and record a new full-length album.

What do you feel is the ultimate goal for Stickman?

Des: I really love that I get to be with my brothers, writing kick ass music. We play shows where and when we can. People show up and dig it. Man, that’s all I’ve ever wanted. I guess I’ve reached my goal, haha.

Kim: To continue doing what we do and help keep rock alive!

Randall: A band with a reasonable following that can be trusted to play any show and entertain – and to continue to release interesting and fun new original music.

Facebook

Is there any band/artist you listen to that you think would surprise people?

Des: I listen to everything from Deftones to SADE, so ya, there’s probably a ton of stuff people would be surprised I listen to, lol.

Randall: I still like Nickelback. There, I said it.

What is your dream tour lineup that includes Stickman? 

Des: Wow! Not sure what that would look like, but I would have loved to have had the opportunity to talk with Chris Cornell and Layne Staley, among many others.

Kim: A touring festival. Take a look at our influences and put them on the bill with us!

Randall: I don’t even need to say some big market arena tour. I think I’d be just as happy with a club tour through western Canada and the Pacific Northwest with a couple of other local bands that we’ve befriended over the years.

And lastly, is there anything you’d like to say to your fans, both new and old? 

Des: I honestly love that you dig what we do. I could never thank those who support us enough.

Kim: Thank you for taking the time to listen to our music and giving us the chance to connect with you through our music.

Randall: Thanks for listening! We really do it for us in that we’re not trying to write to a trend or consumer group, but it’s nice when other people dig it, too.

**

I highly suggest following Stickman on Facebook, etc., as well as your favorite streaming platform; from all that I’ve heard, this band is getting better with each song they release! I can only imagine what is coming in the future.

Check out their latest single, “Sacrifice,” and two of my personal favorites! (I couldn’t narrow it down to one.)