What was the beginning pint for your music career? How did it all start?
The beginning point was when I was 17, and I formed my first band Genocide back in 93. Genocide was a traditional death metal band. Just trying to be heavier and more blasphemous than anyone else. We played a few local shows and got to be the local opening band for some really big bands. I fell in love with writing and performing. Ever since then, that is all I ever wanted to do.
Was there any bumps on the road? What kind of challenges did you have to deal with?
They were many, and still are. The biggest problem I have had in music is maintaining a lineup. The problem happens after a couple of tours have been completed. Past members realize that it isn’t a picnic every day. They also figure out that the business of music is not as easy as they thought it was. It takes a lot of hard work, and sacrifice. I have had to change band members regularly. Finding people that have the musical ability, and some one willing to be on the road has been the biggest challenge. I have never had a problem getting booked, finding a label, or anything on the business side. Just keeping a lineup together.
What was the most fulfilling and satisfying moment so far?
There have been many. I think the most was winning the Best Hardcore/Metal Song award at the 16th Annual Independent Music Awards in New York City. That really showed me that we had something special. It really surprised me to win because they were so many awesome submissions. Then to go back to the last question. Everyone quit a few months later, and I had to replace the whole lineup.
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
I think the music is heavily death and thrash metal influenced. With a bit of black metal sprinkled in. Most critics said we were melodic death metal after our last album. We will see what they say after the next one.
What is your creative process like?
I usually write the music and lyrics. Then Jonathan (drummer) and Maggot (bass) bring their musical elements into the songs. On the next album, like the last single. Randy will be doing most of the heavy lifting with the lyrics.
If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?
Get rid of the buy-on. It seems like a band can’t get on a good tour with a popular band unless they come from wealth.
If you were asked to give a piece of advice to upcoming bands, what would that be?
Save your money. It is expensive to build and develop a band. Do not have a family until you have achieved the level of success to afford children. If your partner demands you quit playing music, realize they do not truly love you. That there are plenty of people in this world. Only build a relationship with the one that supports who you are 100%. Make sure you get your practice time in.
Study how the music business works. There are many great books out there. I recommend “All You Need To Know About The Music Business” by Donald Passman.
What has been the best performance of your career so far?
With Blood of Angels, It was Toledo Death Fest 2021. We were on the outdoor stage. We had the crowd in the palm of our hand. The energy was amazing. Overall, I would have to say headlining Calarca Metal Fest in Calarca, Colombia with my previous band. The venue was packed. The stage was really big, and the crowd new a lot of our songs. The promoters of that festival did a fantastic job. I hope to return to South America after the next album with Blood of Angels.
If you didn’t become a musician, what would you be doing now?
I would probably be a curator at a history museum.
What is new with the band at the moment? What are you currently working on and would like to share with the world?
We will be getting back together after a holiday break this Saturday. We will start working on a new album. We plan on having it out by the end of the year.
