TerrorDome--Straight Outta Smogtown cd,cassette{Self Made God Rec.} done on 2-6-21

 

Coming out of the Polish aggressive thrash metal scene is TerrorDome with their latest full length release.Straight Outta Smogtown is fourteen tracks of uncomprimising and violent thrash metal with some cross-over elements added into the mix.The guitars are done with some very aggressive and intense guitar  patterns that are played with skill.The guitarist does write some memorable guitar patterns even adding some well written solo's throughout the songs.The vocals are raw thrashy screams that fit TerrorDome's musicial style perfectly.If you are a fan of well composed thrash metal that is both intense and well performed then do yourself a favor  and pick up a copy of Straight Outta Smogtown  today.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   Band Contacts                                                                                                                                          https://terrordome.bandcamp.com/                                                                                                             https://www.facebook.com/terrordomeband                                                                                                   https://twitter.com/Terrordomeband                                                                                                                Label  Contacts                                                                                                                                        https://selfmadegod.com/shop/en_US/index                                                                                               https://selfmadegod.bandcamp.com/                                                                                                            https://www.facebook.com/Selfmadegod                                                                                                      https://twitter.com/selfmadegodrec

Interview with Deiquisitor done on 2-4-21

 

1.Hails DA. please introduce yourself to the readers?

Hell-o. Im Daniel and I play bass in Deiquisitor and I do some vocals as well.

I have been in the band since late 2014/early 2015. Only did a bit of vocals on the first album but everything after that, I have done bass as well.

2.When did you first discover death metal and who were the first bands you heard?Who are some of the current bands that you have been listening to?

I think around 99 or 00, when I first heard Death Metal and Black Metal. It was mostly the classics, Morbid Angel, Suffocation, you know, all the good shit!

It's still a lot of the classic stuff I listen to but David from Extremely Rotten Productions, is really good at getting me to buy the things he puts out on tape, so if anyone wants to get the best, that's where you get it. At least from what I know. But to name a few newer, stuff like Tortur Rack, Lord Gore, Portal, etc. And many more, to many to name them all.

3.When did you first meet the other members of the band and was it long before you all started Deiquisitor? What is the current line up of the band?

I met them at my first concert with my old band, they were the headliner with one of their older bands Wolfslair back in... I'm not sure if it was 07 or 08. We just kept a bit of contact after that.

The line up is the same, just Henrik, Thomas and me, doing our thing.

4.Who would you say are the bands biggest influences and have they remained the same over the years?For the readers who have never heard Deiquisitor how would you best describe the bands musicial style?

The biggest influences for all of us has always been the drive to make extreme music in anything any of us has done. But again it's the classic stuff and whatever has been happening in our lives.

I don't wanna name any bands, cuz we mostly just sound like Deiquisitor, I think. We just do our thing. We like it fast, raw, brutal. So if any reader has not heard us but like the sound of what I said, then giv us a go!

5.Humanoid is the band's newest EP. how long did it take the band to write the music for the new release? Does the whole band take part in the writing process or does one member usually write everything?

I can't answer that really. we are always making new music, it never stops. Since we recorded Humanoid, we have made like 6 new songs and have some ideas for a new one as well.

Yes everybody takes part. Henrik comes up with some drum parts and then Thomas makes some riffs and I make my basslines off that and then we rehearse them and find out how everything has to be put together.

Other times we just jam at rehearsal and come up with stuff. it's pretty dynamic.

6.Who usually handles writing the lyrics for the music and what are some subjects written about on the new release? Which usually comes first, the music or the lyrics?

All 3 of us write lyrics. It's about stuff like occult science, ancient mysteries and apocalyptic theories. I would recommend everyone to read the lyrics, when they buy the album. It's a good read!

7.Besides the upcoming Humanoid release are the bands previous releases still available for the readers to purchase? Does the band have any other merchandise currently available if yes what is available and where can the readers purchase it?

Well I think most of our releases are still available from the labels that put them out and some T-shirts and longsleeve, so check out:

Extremely Rotten Prod

https://extremelyrottenprod.storenvy.com/collections/1753647-order-of-the-nonagram

Night Shroud Records

https://night-shroud.blogspot.com/

Dark Descent Records

http://www.darkdescentrecords.com/

Me Saco Un Ojo records

https://www.mesacounojo.com/                                                                                                                     We only sell at concerts ourselves. Just come to a show if you have the chance!

8.Has Deiquisitor played very many live shows over the years or do you prefer working in the studio?What have been some of the bands most memorable shows over the years? Who are some bands you have had the opportunity to share the stage with?

I don't know if we have played many but we have played a bit here in DK and EU. Every time we play with Undergang, it's just the most fun. Those guys are the best, we have been on a week tour in 2016 with them, then 2 smaller weekend tours to UK and Germany/Holland and a weekend tour with Finish Galvanizer here in DK. David (Undergang) is the one that gets us all our shows, he's the MVP and he's support and friendship, we are just really grateful for all the stuff he does. We could not do it without him. But we are a rehearsal room band mostly. That's where Deiquisitor is made! It's the brotherhood we have there that is the power of the band!                                                                                          And some cool bands we have played with are StarGazer, Lord Gore, Death Congregation, Galvanizer and more!

9.Besides working in Deiquisitor do any of the members currently work with any other bands?If yes please tell the readers a little about them?

No.. But Thomas and Henrik has been active since the early 90's, with bands like Fallen Angel, Wolfslair, Blodfest, Luciation, etc.

You can hear a lot of this on our Lebal-Bandcamp: https://orderofthenonagram.bandcamp.com/ and there are physical releases of most of it as well.

10.What does Underground Metal mean to you?

Okay now I have tried for an hour to come up with something meaningful to answer with, but I can't. I just like it extreme and mainstream does not have that, really.

Maybe that's the thing, is whatever you make it and everyone is there for different reasons.

11.Deiquisitor comes out of Denmark's death metal scene what are your thoughts of the scene in Denmark over the years?                                                                                                                           

Well the Danish scene is taking over the world with Undergang at the forefront. We have some really cool bands here with stuff like: Chaotia, Phrenelith, Septage, hypodontia, Taphos.

Then some older stuff like Fallen Angel, early infernal Death Demos, early Iniquity and Nations of Death.

12.Who are your all-time favorite bands coming out of Denmark and are there any new bands you could tell the readers a little about?

So I answered the last part already but my favorite bands are Fallen Angel, Wolfslair and Blodfest. Thomas and Henrik play in them and I get to play in Deiquisitor with my music heros. It's pretty sick dude!

Back in 2014 when I had no band to play in, a mate said, I should give Henrik a call,cuz they had started a new band, so they might be down to have me on, so I did and... well the rest is history in the making!

13.When you need to take a break from working on new music or band business what do you like to do in your free time?

Before lockdown, I liked to hang with friends, go for walks in the woods, go to raves and get fucked up, go to the movies. Just some pretty un-metal things. haha but also going to see some cool underground shows here in DK. Again thanks to David for bringing all the cool bands to Denmark!

14.Thank you DA. for taking the time to fill this interview out do you have any final comments for the readers?

Thank you Patrick for giving us the chance to tell you about our Death Metal band ! And I do! Go out there and do your thing, don't make headbanger friendly music, be extreme, don't compromise on your vision! and remember to crush your enemies, to see them driven before you, and to hear the lamentations of their women! haha                                                                                                              Give us a listen and get our new Ep "Humanoid" for the most dark and brutal Death Metal Denmark has to offer!                                                                                                                                              Thanks for all the support!                                                                                                                             Band Contacts                                                                                                                                               https://deiquisitor.bandcamp.com/                                                                                                                https://www.facebook.com/Deiquisitor

                                                            

Sententia Mortis--Untold Abominations cd,digital(Earth And Sky Productions}Posted on 2-2-21

After eight long years Sententia Mortis return with their third full-length release that carries on the melodic black metal that was previous on the bands first two releases.Untold Abominations contains nine songs of well conconstructed and performed black metal that is both melodic but does have some aggressive music entertwined within the recording.The music is crafted with both faster guitars and drum passages but does slow to a more calmer mid paced range throughout the songs.Andrea Mezzarobba from Chronic Hate handels the vocal duties that powerful death metal growls that fit the bands music perfectly.If you are a fan of well crafted and played symphonic and melodic blackend death metal that is not afraid to add some faster musicial parts then do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of Untold Abominations today.                                                                                                                                                                                                               Band Contacts                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   https://sententiamortis.bandcamp.com/releases                                                                                           https://www.facebook.com/sententiamortisband/                                                                                             Label Contacts                                                                                                                                           https://easp.bandcamp.com/                                                                                                                      https://www.facebook.com/EASPRODUCTIONS                                                                                                                                                                                                          

Deiquisitor--Humanoid cd(Dark Descent Rec.) done on 2-2-21

Deiquisitor is a death metal band coming out of Denmark who play a crushing and heavy form of deathmetal madness.Humanoid is the bands newest release featuring six tracks of angry and furious deathmetal that is rooted in the old school realm but does add some of their own influences to make thisrelease very originaal and enjoyable.The guitars are played with both skill and memorable guitarpatterns but do speed up for a aggressive speed.The guitarist does slow to a more controlled pacedthroughout some of the tracks even andding some well played solo's throughout the songs.The vocalsare a mix of heavy deametal growls and some screechy demonic death metal growls are used throughout the recording.Humanoid is a release that should please all fans of solid well executed death metal so do yourself a favor and pick up a copy once it is released.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Band Contacts                                                                                                                                      https://www.facebook.com/Deiquisitor/                                                                                                        https://deiquisitor.bandcamp.com/                                                                                                              https://www.instagram.com/deiquisitor/?hl=en                                                                                                        Label Contacts                                                                                                                                    http://www.darkdescentrecords.com/                                                                                                           https://darkdescentrecords.bandcamp.com/                                                                                                https://www.facebook.com/DarkDescentRecords/                                                                                                                     

Interview with Nick owner of Funeral Hymns Rec. done on 1-29-21

.1.Hello Nick please introduce yourself to the readers?

Hi Patrick,First, I’d like to thank you for interest of Funeral Hymns Records. 

My name is Nick I am the person behind Funeral Hymns Records. My passion is death metal but I enjoy black, doom and thrash metal as well.

2.When did you first discover metal music and who were the first bands you listened to? Who are some of the current bands and artists that have caught your attention?

I discovered death metal when I was 13 years old. My first touch to this genre were bands like Benediction, Gorefest, Napalm Death, Cannibal Corpse, Sepultura and Slayer of course.

After the albums like Transcend the Rubicon (Benediction) and False (Gorefest) I was hooked up for live.

The new death, black, doom and thrash metal scene is very interesting and I can compare it to the one that we had during 90s.Some bands that I really like are Gatecreeper, Expunged, Necrot and many more.

3.Nick what have been some of the most memorable concerts that you have had the opportunity to witness over the years? Who are some of your favorite bands to watch live?

Here in Canada, we are lucky to be able to see so many grate bands.

One of the best memories probably is from the Tomb Mold and Bleeding Out concert. I remember this was organised as a birthday party for the Bleeding Out’s guitarist. There were no more than 40 people and the atmosphere was great.Some of the killer live bands that I have witnessed are Kataklism, Gorguts, Outre Tombe, Katatonia, Nile, Krisun, Vader.

4.What gave you the idea to start a label and are you satisfied with how things are going so far with it? How did you choose Funeral Hymns Rec. as the name for the label?

I am originally from Bulgaria and before I moved to Canada, I was a member of the Bulgarian death metal act - UnHumanity. In Canada, I didn’t have a chance to connect with other people either to start a new band or to join a band. But I still wanted to be connected to the scene and more specifically to be able to support the Bulgarian underground. My real passion are the vinyl records, so that’s why I decided my first release to be on vinyl and to be a band that I knew and liked. That’s how Dark Incognito’s second album came out as my first release.

Releasing records is very expensive endeavour and shortly after my second vinyl release, I decided to proceed with audio cassettes. So far, I have released almost 30 titles. My first official CD release is now in production.The label’s name came up to me as thinking of how I could summarize the music that I like and would like to release as a label, and Funeral Hymns fit perfectly.

5.Do you run the label by yourself or do you have some friends that help you out with the label? How many hours a day would you say you work on label business?

Yes, it’s only me. I don’t spend enough time for the label if I have to me honest. I have full time job and family so the label is a hobby. The only time that I dedicate is a few hours during weekends.

6.What are some of your current releases that the readers can purchase? What are some bands you will be releasing in 2021?

My latest releases are the newest Valgrind album as well as Nemesis – The War is On, VHS – Gore From Beyond The Space, Evil Incarnate – Depopulation Agenda, Hak-Ed Damm – Nekrowristfucked

The upcoming release for now is the Mortiferoth and Mass Cremation split on CD. On cassette I am working on 3 new releases which are not 100% confirmed, so I’d rather not say anything for now.

7. Are you currently looking for new bands to sign and release or is the roster full for this year? What are some things you look for when signing and releasing a band?

I prefer to work with bands which music I really like. Most of the time I contact the bands that I like asking them if they ‘d like to work with me, but I review all the bands’ requests that I get.

8.Do you usually trade with other labels and distro's or do you prefer to buy wholesale? If there are any labels or distro's reading this what styles of metal do you carry in your distro and how can they get in touch with you about trades?

Yes, I mainly trade with other labels. I think this is the best way for distribution. I am always open for trade offers.

The best way to contact with me is through my facebook page or to email me directly at funeralhymns@yahoo.com

9.What does Underground Metal mean to you?

Underground metal is my passion. I love discovering good bands. I feel happy to contribute to the underground as much as I can.

10.Nick you live in the great country of Canada what is your opinion of Canada's metal scene over the years?

Yes! Canada is one of the best countries when we talk about extreme metal.I recently have released multiple Canadian bands and I am really proud of that.Some of them are Expunged – killer old school death metal, VHS – Gore grind horror band,Hak-ed Damm – war black metal band from Quebec and Aepoch which are one of the best among technical death metal bands. The Canadian scene now is really strong and we have bands like Tomb Mold, Outre Tombe, Fumes, Gutvoid, Altered Dead and many more.

11.Who are your all-time favorite Canadian bands and are their any new bands you feel the readers should check out soon?

My all-time favourite Canadian band is Gorguts. I already mentioned some Canadian bands but I can always add more. Votov for example is a killer new band as well as Cryophilic.

12.When you need to take a break from working on label business what do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I don’t have too much free time but maybe listening to music and hiking are my favorite things.

13.Since 2020 has just ended what would you say were your ten favorite releases of the last year?

As I huge Benediction fan I must say that this is Benediction – Scripture. But I have to be honest 2020 was a great year for death metal and not only. Testament for example or Undeath – what an album.

14.Thank you Nick for taking the time to fill this interview out do you have any final comments for the readers?

Thanks again for the great interview.I would like to thank to everyone who has supported the label and all the bands that I work with. Stay brutal and keep the underground alive!Cheers!                                    Label Contacts                                                                                                                                              https://funeralhymns.storenvy.com/fbclid=IwAR0rB6YF3T0GBWktfUkpGAXBDIREosmlzuC5GBq2_s_1PXkTNk9dNK3VFpg             

 https://www.facebook.com/FuneralHymnsRecords                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

Interview with Infected Humans done on 1-12-21

 1.Hello please introduce yourself to the readers?

Thank you for giving us the space Patrick, a pleasure to be in this environment at the same time I send a cordial greeting from the Andes of Ecuador to all that staff of the world fanatics of the extreme.

2.When did you first discover death metal music and who were the first bands you heard?Who are some of the current bands that have caught your attention?

At the age of 12 entering adolescence for reasons of life I came to my hands the album Ecuador underground 1 where they integrated bands such as: Chancro duro (grindcore) and Ente (death metal) these bands caused impact on my ears by speed (blast beats) and raw voices defining and identifying what I would like later. Within the first bands I will cite Epidemia, Flagellation, Cry, Entombed, Cancer, Obituary, Eskhaton on the other hand currently with the new opportunities that technology provides you can meet extreme bands from all parts of the world I think that quoting them all I will not be able to, the bands that now resonate in my mind are: Reptilium, INSECT INSIDE, Revocation, Naegleria Fowleri, A PRETEXT TO.

3.When did you first meet the other members of the band and was it long before you all started Infected Humans?What is the current line-up of the band?

With Pablo (Bass) we basically have a friendship long ago before creating Infected and with Andrew for his part we have shared platform on many occasions he is also a close colleague who likes the extreme and adapted to the idea that is had, currently I.H. we are: Andrew (Guitar), Pablo (Bass), Sebastian (Drums) and my person in the voices.

4.Who would you say are the bands biggest influences?For the readers unfamilar with Infected Humans music how would you best describe the bands musicial style?

The influences are varied since Andrés leans into genres such as: black metal, progressive, etc., for his part Pablo loves noise, grindcore, brutal death, personal I like bands like Degrade, Inheret Disease, Death, Beheaded, Jasad, in which the sum of all wills projects our first album.

The band's style was initially for a brutal classic death, currently with Sebastian's ingress he has headed to brutal death with progressive variations, techniques which can be evident on the next album that we estimated for 2022.

5.Unexpected Traumatic Experiences is the bands debut full length that will be released through Gore House Prod. when did you and the band come in contact with this great label?

We had in mind many labels to release our music however we had good references about Gore House with which we came into contact with Carlos in the middle of 2020 after negotiations we reached an agreement between both parties and to this day has proven to be very professional in his work.

6.Does the whole band take part in the writing process or does one member usually write everything? How long did it take the band to complete the music for the debut release?

With regard to the creation process it has had ups and downs due to parallel projects with the members, however, the contribution in composition is by Paul and mine, on drums suggestions were given to Andrew and the rest was his creativity.

7.Who usually handles writing the lyrics for the music and what are some topics written about on the debut release?Which usually comes first the music or the lyrics?

Basically the lyrics are input from all the members inspired by cult films, own experiences, etc. in the same way the first thing you work on are the lyrics and then harmonize cruelly bombing with the music.

8.Besides the upcoming debut Unexpected Traumatic Experiences does the band have any other merchandise currently availible?If yes what is availible and where can the readers purchase your merchandise?

There are indeed 2 demos launched Mutilation scene (2009) we have knowledge that some people have, and THE REBELLION OF SUBDUED HUMANS (2020) similarly few demos were printed and distributed to close Friends.

9.Infected Humans comes out of Ecuador's brutal death metal scene what are your thoughts on the scene in Ecuador?

In Ecuador there is a movement called Ecuadorian Brutal death metal that brings together death metal bands and brutal death from which we also belong, we believe that the movement of extreme music in all its aspects has been growing hopefully in a few years new bands, new and better musicians will emerge with the passion and attachment to this of death metal.

10.Who are your all-time favorite bands coming out of Ecuador and are their any new bands you feel the readers should check out soon?

There are good bands, but I will quote: Solipsismo, Ente, Gastrorrexis, Colapso, Total Death

11.When you need to take a break from working on new music or band business what do you like to do in your free time?

Apart from music in moments of leisure I am attracted to travel to different cities, to know cultures.

12.Besides working in Infected Humans do any of the members currently work with any other bands or solo projects? If yes please tell the readers a little about them?

Due to composition for our second board currently our 5 senses are focused on I.H however personally I have other bands such as HUESA CADÁVER (BDM) and Criptor (DM) meanwhile Andrew, Pablo and Sebastian are currently encapsulated in the composition of INFECTED HUMANS.

13.What does Underground Metal mean to you?

For my underground metal it is something that marches countercurrent and does not seek approval, it is a way to manter and defend in time a thought through music, clothes, concerts, etc.

14.Thank you for taking the time to fill this interview out do you have any final comments for the readers?

Thank you very much for this interview, to the present readers keep the extreme in their different scenarios, we are motivated to create the second plaque to be worthy of a demanding audience in the meantime acquire our present material loaded with an atmosphere that will gun you down from start to finish visit Gore House Productions and follow our social pages on fb, Instagram, twitter.                                                                         Band Contacts                                                                                                                                                https://www.facebook.com/InfectedHumans                                                                                               Label Contacts                                                                                                                                              https://gorehouseproductions.com/                                                                                                              https://gorehouseproductions.bandcamp.com/                                                                                            https://www.facebook.com/GoreHouseProductionsOfficial/                                                                         https://twitter.com/GoreHouse

Revulsion--Self-Titled cd,Lp{Transcending Obscurity Rec.} posted on 1-10-21

 

Coming out of Finland's death metal scene is Revulsion after releasing one demo and EP. the band signed a deal with Transcending Obscurity Rec.The self-titled debut contains ten songs of old-school death metal that is both intense and well executed musically.The guitars are done with a mix of heavier mid paced guitar patterns and some faster passages.The guitarist can write some memorable guitar patterns even adding some well played solo's throughout a few of the songs.The drums are handled with heavy mid paced drum patterns but the drummer does cut loose and plays more aggressive and faster drum patterns entertwined within the music.If you are a fan of well performed and delievered death metal that is both intense and well executed then do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of Revulsion's debut when it is released.                                                                                                                                                                                         Band  Contacts                                                                                                                                            https://www.facebook.com/RevulsionFin                                                                                                    https://revulsion.bandcamp.com/                                                                                                                       Label Contacts                                                                                                                                          https://tometal.com/                                                                                                                                 https://transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com/                                                                                               https://www.facebook.com/transcendingobscurityrecords                                                                             https://twitter.com/transcendingobs

Sepulcros--Vazio cd,Lp{Transcending Obscurity Rec.} posted on 1-6-21

Vazio is Sepulcros debut release featuring a intro and outro and four majestic hymns of death,doometal.The music is crafted together with powerful drums and guitar passages that are playedflawlessly.The musicians do play some faster paced passages but still keeps the music perfectly balanced.The vocals are heavy death metal growls and some black metal screams are used in a few of the songs.If you are looking for a band that has created a masterpiece of death doom metal then be sure to pick up a copy of Vazio when it is released.                                                                                                                                              Band Contacts                                                                                                                                              https://www.facebook.com/sepulcrosdoom                                                                                                    https://sepulcrosdoom.bandcamp.com/                                                                                                                  Label Contacts                                                                                                                                       https://tometal.com/                                                                                                                                 https://transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com/                                                                                           https://www.facebook.com/transcendingobscurityrecords                                          https://twitter.com/transcendingobs

Infected Humans-Unexpected Traumatic Experiences cd{Gorehouse Prod.} done on 1-1-21

Coming out of Ecuador's brutal death metal scene is the new band Infected Humans with their debut full-length.Unexpected Traumatic Experiences contains ten tracks of intense and brutal death metal that draws from both the 90's death metal gods to a more modern brutal style.The vocals are low,deep death metal growls that are done with powerful vocal patterns.The guitars are played with a mix of chaotic fast guitar passages but the guitarist does slow to a more mid paced range in a few of the songs.The drums are about the same with heavy and powerful mid paced drum patterns but the drummer seems to be more at home delievering the faster and crazed blast beats.Infected Humans have crafted and delievered a well executed debut release of brutal and intense death metal.                                                                                                             Band Contacts                                                                                                                                        https://www.facebook.com/InfectedHumans                                                                                                        Label Contacts                                                                                                                                       https://gorehouseproductions.com/                                                                                                             https://www.facebook.com/GoreHouseProductionsOfficial                                                                        https://gorehouseproductions.bandcamp.com/                                                                                             https://twitter.com/GoreHouse

Infernal Thorns--Inflicting Ravage To The Holy Cattle cd {Australis Rec.} done on 12-30-20

 

Infernal Thorns are a death metal band coming out of Chile's death metal underground scene.Inflicting Ravage To The Holy Cattle is the bands second full length featuring ten songs unrelenting and furious death metal intensity.The guitars are done with skillful writing ability and a nice mix of extremly fast and some more calmer mid paced sections.The guitarist can play both the faster and slower tempo's with great ease.The guitarist even adds some well executed solo's throughout the songs.The vocals are some of the best vocals i have heard in awhile mixing in low,gruff growls and adding some screams into a few of the songs.Infernal Thorns have released one of the best releases of the year so if you are a fan of solid death metal that is both memorable and original sounding be sure to pick up a copy of Infecting Ravage To The Holy Cattle today.                                                                                                                                                                         Band  Contact                                                                                                                                     https://infernalthorns.bandcamp.com/merch                                                                                               https://www.facebook.com/infernalthorns/                                                                                                              Label Contacts                                                                                                                                http://www.australisrecords.com/                                                                                                                https://australisrecords.bandcamp.com/                                                     https://www.facebook.com/australis.rec

Interview with Trench Warfare posted on 12-25-20

 

1. Hails, Jay and Tony. Please introduce yourselves to the readers.

Tony: Greetings, Patrick. My name is Tony Goyang Jr. Hails from West Texas!

Jay: Hi. I'm Jay Gorania, vocalist of Trench Warfare.

2. When did you two first discover metal music, and who were some of the first bands you heard?

Tony: I got into metal around 1993 upon hearing Metallica’s “…And Justice For All” album. I was actually on a bus en route to a football game. This guy, Ben Soliz, introduced me to metal. This was an instant game changer for me. Most people get into metal very subtly. I dove in head first. Within months I was listening to Death, Morbid Angel, Deicide, Napalm Death, Carcass, etc.

Jay: I was six or seven years old when I was exposed to the likes of Motley Crue, Iron Maiden and Ozzy Osbourne by my older brother. I have always liked music well beyond the scope of metal and heavy music, but my passion for it has been unwavering since I was a young boy.

3. Trench Warfare started in 2015. When did you two first get the idea to start this band? Are you satisfied with how everything has gone with the band so far? What is the current line up of the band?

Tony: The idea for Trench Warfare has been around since my first listen of Conqueror and Black Witchery’s legendary split, “Hellstorm of Evil Vengeance,” back in 2001. In between then and now I filled the void with a solo project, Plague Swarm. A mutual friend of ours, Kelly Bogues, introduced me and Jay.

Jay: Like Tony mentioned, Bogus—Kelly’s nickname—introduced the two of us at Tony’s house for a jam session. As soon as Tony and I realized we mutually liked Blasphemy and Beherit, right then and there we decided to create a band that sounded like them. It ended up taking a while for things to come together, but we have been pleased with the progress, both artistically and as far as reaction from the metal community, which we really didn’t expect. Speaking of Bogus, he was actually our first bassist who performed on our demo.

Tony and I are essentially the core members, and we have enlisted other folks including Lee Fisher who was our drummer on Hatred Prayer. Dustin Putz is the second guitarist, preceded by Nick Norris who is now in Imprecation. Jake Holmes was our bassist for quite some time. He’s in Morbosidad and Churchacide. And Belgor and Whore Of Bethlehem’s Samuel Axelrad have been our live drummers. Everyone I've mentioned is a fantastic musician, and we are appreciative of their involvement.

4. Who would you say are Trench Warfare's biggest influences? And how would you describe the band’s music over the releases?

Tony: Conqueror, Napalm Death, more specifically their “Mentally Murdered” EP, Angelcorpse, and classic Florida Death Metal. The sound for us remained the same from our demo and “Hatred Prayer.” The songs that appeared on the split/compilation album, “Of Vultures and Vermin,” were actually a part of another project of mine that ceased to exist when the bassist, Kelly Bogues, had to drop out of it for personal reasons. The songs that appeared on the comp were more blackened death metal in the vein of Angelcorpse, early Krisiun, Diabolic. The songs were longer and a bit more complex than that of typical Trench Warfare songs.

 5. “Hatred Prayer” is the bands debut full length release that was released through Transcending Obscurity Records. When did you and the band come in contact with this great label?

Jay: We were interviewed for the webzine component that Transcending Obscurity Records had a few years ago. We remained in contact and another label actually asked us to write a full-length for them prior to their unintended slow-down in activities. So we had an album in hand and were in open discussions with a few labels. Transcending Obscurity extended the best offer, so we signed a contract with them. We have been pleased with our relationship with the label, and look forward to recording our second full-length album with them as well.

6. Does the whole band take part in the writing process or does one member usually write everything? How long would you say it takes to complete one song?

Tony: Up until about the latter part of 2017, the lineup consisted of only Jay and I. With that being said, I wrote all the music, with exception to "Young Lord," which is a Poison Idea song.

The length of time for completing songs varies. I believe I wrote "Evil Shall Triumph" during a lunch break. As far as the other songs, it typically takes me two to three days if the song writing is flowing smoothly.

7. Who usually handles writing the lyrics for the music and what are some topics written about on the album? Which usually comes first the lyrics or the music?

Jay: The music usually comes first. Tony writes the music. And Lee Fisher (Commit Suicide, Psyopus, Fawn Limbs, Overlord Exterminator) was the recording drummer for “Hatred Prayer.” I’m the lyricist, but Tony wrote the lyrics for the three demo songs that we also re-recorded for the album. Lyrics come to me sporadically or when I intentionally sit down to write them, but the majority of the album’s lyrics came together with a notepad one evening. I was definitely inebriated, filled with rage, and I was listening to music in my car. The album title comes from the song of the same name. "Hatred Prayer" is exactly that. It’s a curse. It isn’t metaphor.

Themes of war are embedded throughout the album’s lyrics. “Sate Thy Lust” is about celebration following victory and the related hedonism, but with the acknowledgement of the importance and need of moderation. "Axioms" is about the snakelike nature of people and the power of language. There is definitely a fine line between persuasion and manipulation. And Behead Muhammed" is our formal attack upon Islam, a message that links to the album cover as well.

8. Does Trench Warfare play live very often, or do you prefer working in the studio? What have been some of the bands most memorable shows over the years?

Tony: Every one of the shows has been great due to the lineup. We have had the honor of sharing the stage and/or fests with many bands of current times and from the past. It’s hard for me to pinpoint just one show.

Jay: We don’t play too often, but I’m hoping we can play more often than we have been once the cloud that is the pandemic passes. Like Tony said, we have played with some killer bands. Off the top of my head, playing with Deiphago, Morbosidad, Obeisance, Imprecation and Bestial Whore have been special occasions that have really meant something to me.

9. Besides the Hatred Prayer release are the band’s previous releases still available for the readers to purchase? Besides the physical releases does the band have any other merchandise currently available? If yes, what is available and where can the readers buy it?

Jay: Our demo is available via Nuclear War Now Productions! (https://shop.nwnprod.com/products/22286?_pos=1&_sid=ce0d4df67&_ss=r), and it’s available digitally (https://trenchwarfaretx.bandcamp.com/album/perversion-warfare). People can contact us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/trenchwarfaretexas) regarding our “Demonic Christ” shirt, and “Hatred Prayer” is available via our Bandcamp (https://trenchwarfaremetal.bandcamp.com/album/hatred-prayer-black-death-metal), our label (https://tometal.com/store/) and various brick and mortar record stores in North America and Europe.

10. When you need to take a break from working on new music or band business what do you like to do in your free time?

Tony: My time is usually occupied with work. My other leisurely activities are working out and video games.

Jay: I work quite a bit, just like Tony. I’ve also done music journalism for many years. I’m a gym rat. I spend time with my family, and when the world returns to “normal,” I’ll start going to shows again, the good ones, anyway.

11. Trench Warfare comes out of the Texan black/death metal scene. What is your opinion of the scene in Texas over the years?

Tony: There have been various notable acts to come out of Texas: DRI, Thornspawn, Satanik Goat Ritual, Obeisance, Morbosidad, Imprecation, Absu, etc.

Jay: Black/death metal is fantastic in Texas! In addition to the bands Tony mentioned, there are other greats, past and present, including Maiestas, Necrovore, Ceremony, Sacrocurse, Averse Sefira, Nyogthaeblisz, Nexul, Hellvetron and Pyre. On the mainstream end of the spectrum, I’ve always been a Pantera fanatic.

12. Who would you say are your all-time favorite bands coming out of Texas, and are there any new bands you feel the readers should check out soon?

Tony: Yes, the bands I mentioned. Also Pious Levus, Churchacide, Trenchant.

Jay: There’s also Serpentian.

13. Thank you, Tony and Jay, for making the time for this interview. Do you have any final words for the readers?

Tony: Thanks for this interview, and thanks to all those who have supported Trench Warfare.

Jay: Thanks to everyone who has supported our band. To those who haven’t, go to hell. haha                   Band Contacts                                                                                                                                               https://www.facebook.com/trenchwarfaretexas?fref=ts                                                                               https://www.instagram.com/trenchwarfaretexas/                                                                                         Label Contacts                                                                                                                                              https://tometal.com/                                                                                                                                     https://transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com/                                                                                              https://www.facebook.com/transcendingobscurityrecords                                                                          https://twitter.com/transcendingobs

Interview with Dan guitarist of Mutual Hostility done on 12-5-20

 

1.Hello Dan please introduce yourself to the readers?

My name is Dan Gates and I play guitar in Mutual Hostility.

2.When did you first discover metal music and was it long before you discovered death metal? Who were some of the first bands you heard?Who are some of the current bands that have caught your attention?

I was about 14 years old and started becoming a fan of 80’s thrash metal. I was in High school in the 80’s and that was the time that a lot of great thrash metal was happening. I started off listening to Suicidal Tendencies, DRI, Dark Angel, Slayer, Metallica and Testament. I discovered a lot of other bands before learning about Death Metal. In the early 90’s I got introduced to Bolt Thrower, Cannibal Corpse, Suffocation, Deicide and Morbid Angel. Not to mention a lot of underground bands shortly after that.

3.Dan were you a big reader of fanzines back in the 90's and early 00's? If yes what were some of the first fanzines that you read?

Yeah I read a lot of fanzines because I was always trying to get my band TON into them. I had to dig deep in my closet to find my old interviews and reviews to remember the names of the zines TON was in. Simbiotic, Unholy Terror, Metalcore, Esoteric, The Grimoire Of Exalted Deeds, Extremities, Carnivorous, Katopetia, Sanguinary Surroundings and a shitload more!

4.What do you feel made a good fanzine and are there any current fanzines that you read?What is your opinion of web-zines do you read or keep up with very many?

I think including good bands makes a good zine. Not just popular bands but also bands that are good that maybe not a lot of people know about. I haven’t read any zines lately but I did pick up a copy of the Tape Dealer book that has a lot of old school bands and zines in it. I did an interview for that also. I think webzines are cool! Easy access to a lot of information about bands. I think if I weren’t in a band I might spend more time reading them and seeking out new bands. But I keep really busy with my own music.

5.Besides fanzines i know tape-trading was huge back in the 80's and 90's did you ever do a lot of tape trading back in the day? What were some first releases and demo's you traded for?

Yes I did as much tape trading as I could. I got very excited about being able to send my music all over the world and get great stuff in return for it. Internet makes it easy now but back then you had to really work to get your music out there. I spent a lot of money at the post office. I traded with great bands! Deeds Of Flesh, Beheaded, Disgorge, Fleshgrind, Corpsevomit, Skinless, Internal Bleeding, Pyrexia and a bunch more.

6.When did you first become interested in playing the guitar and are you self taught or did you take lessons when first starting out?

I was 17 and I had 2 friends that had guitars. The first time I strapped my friends guitar on and hit the strings I knew that I had to have one. I was a senior in high school and I got my first amp for Christmas shortly after I got my first guitar. I am self taught. In the 80’s Metallica was my favorite band. I learned to play by playing their riffs.

7.Who would you say are your biggest influences and favorite guitarists? Besides the guitar do you currently play any other instruments?

I’m sure I’m influenced by everything I listen to. I was definitely influenced by all the great 90’s Death Metal bands. I don’t try to emulate anyone but I’m sure those influences come out in my music. I don’t really have a favorite guitarist but I do appreciate those who really put the time in to become awesome. I play some bass for recording purposes when I have to but that’s it other than guitar.

8.When did you first meet the other members of the band and was it long before you all formed Mutual Hostility?

Eric Frabotta our drummer and I are close to the same age so I’m sure we met somewhere way back in the day. I just don’t remember when or where. Adam Rogers our vocalist and I didn’t meet until a few months ago. All the recording for the ep was done and we hadn’t even met yet. We started working on songs for the ep in January of 2020. As of right now Mutual Hostility is a recording project. Would love to perform live someday but we’ll see.

9.What is the current line up of the band?Who would you say are Mutual Hostility's biggest influences?For the readers who who have never heard the band how would you best describe the musicial style?

Eric Frabotta-Drums, Adam Rogers-Vocals, Dan Gates-Guitar/Bass. I would say our influences range from Old school 90’s Death Metal to modern day Death Metal. Everything from Bolt Thrower to Meshuggah and more recent stuff. There is an old school vibe at times but I think we also mix in riffs that have a unique quality to them that helps us to have an original sound. We’re definitely not just rehashing the same old stuff.

10.Sacred Propaganda is the bands debut full-length which is being released through Cult Of Parthenope when did you and the band come in contact with this label?

It’s actually a 5 song ep. We released our first single Pyramid Of Hate on Slam Worldwide and Giulian From Cult Of Parthenope really liked it and contacted us.

11.Does the whole band take part in the writing process or does one member usually write the music?How long does it usually take the band to complete one song?

Eric comes up with all the drum beats, arranges them into a song, records them and sends the arrangement to me. I write all of the guitar riffs to the drum beats. It’s a little backward from most bands and any band I’ve been in. But its cool and it’s fun and I think we write some really cool songs doing it that way. After I finish guitar and bass Adam works out the vocal arrangements.

12.Who usually handles writing the lyrics for the music and what are some topics written about on the debut?Which usually comes first the music or the lyrics?

Adam writes the lyrics. I think he has lyrical ideas prior to hearing the music then works out the arrangement when he gets the song. Lyrical topics range from hate being taught at a young age, mind control, invisible boundaries and natural disasters.

13.Besides the debut Sacred Propaganda release does the band have any other merchandise currently available for the readers?If yes what is available and where can the readers purchase it?

Right now all that is available to buy is limited edition box set and digipak. Hopefully some shirts soon. Best place to buy is Cult Of Parthenope Bandcamp page. https://cultofparthenope.bandcamp.com/album/sacred-propaganda

14.I know right now and in the forseeable future bands can not play live but when bands are able to play live again are there any plans for Mutual Hostility to do some shows or do you prefer working in the studio?

Right now we have no plans to play live. Maybe in the future but I don’t know. We do plan to start working on new material though.

15.When you need to take a break from working on new music or band business what do you like to do in your spare time?

Well I love going to see live bands but unfortunately we can’t really do that right now. I like to spend time with my son, my girlfriend and my dog. I own a lawn care/landscaping business so sometimes I’m perfectly happy to do nothing and just relax a bit.

nothing and just relax a bit.

16.Thank you Dan for taking the time to fill this interview out do you have any final comments for the readers?

Thank you very much for the interview! You and I go way back. Please check out our Sacred Propaganda ep. Its available for purchase and available on all streaming platforms. ¥m/                            Band Contact                                                                                                                                           https://www.facebook.com/MutualHostility                                                                                                 https://www.instagram.com/mutualhostilitymetal/                                                                                       https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1tPKIDnpiMLDlSj6strL2Q?reload=9                                            Label Contacts                                                                                                                                               http://www.cultofparthenope.com/                                                                                                               https://cultofparthenope.bandcamp.com/                                                                                                      https://www.facebook.com/cultofparthenope/                                                                                             https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4T5FF9XEB9cjMmqjlOiyew                                                         https://www.instagram.com/cultofparthenope/