RONNY MUNROE (Metal Church)

Hanna Tsepesh: Hello Ronny Munroe! Thanks so much for accepting our invitation and welcome to the THE GATES OF METAL! First of all: how are you and how are the things doing with your concerts?

Ronny: Thanks for having me and things are going very well with the Cd and I have some shows coming up in October.

Hanna Tsepesh: You are much known in metal scene since the 80’s but some young people don’t know you. So, can you tell little bit about you and when you start in music?

Ronny: I started playing drums first, then I became a singer and I’ve never looked back. After playing in different bands over the years I was lucky enough to land the frontman spot for Metal Church, co-wrote three records and toured the world. Now I have put out my first solo CD “The Fire Within” and I am going to continue to tour and do what I love to do.

Hanna Tsepesh: What are the inspirations to create the lyrics?

Ronny: Life, Love and the pursuit of Metal! That’s the simple answer but really it can be about politics, religion, love , hate or whatever I may be feeling at the time.

Hanna Tsepesh: What are your favorite bands at the moment? You have any musician that you admire the most?

Ronny: I listen to a lot of music but right now the new Heaven and hell and Mastodon are my favs as of right now. Both these records are great!

Hanna Tsepesh: You have or had any singing lessons or any other preparation? You play any instrument?

Ronny: I had a few lessons over the years. When I prepare for a show I usually do a few minutes of warm ups, drink a glass of wine to loosen up , then I go out and rock! I play drums and a little guitar and I’m always striving to learn more.
Hanna Tsepesh: Let’s talk about the “The Fire Within” album. For people who don’t listen yet can you tell to us what we can expect from this album?

Ronny: 12 heavy hitting songs. I am very proud of this record and how it came together, it’s pure old school power metal with a twist.

Hanna Tsepesh: How has the response been to the album by the media and fans?
Ronny: Very well so far, the reviews are good and the fan reaction is solid. For a first effort “The Fire Within” is burning brightly .

Hanna Tsepesh: what is your favorite music in this album and why?

Ronny: I think all the songs are solid but if I had to pick a favorite I would say Desperate Man and the reason is it’s the first song I wrote on guitar and the meaning of the lyrics. The lyrics talk about perseverance and never giving up on your dreams!

Hanna Tsepesh: If one of our readers wants to buy your album, what they can do?

Ronny: It’s every where!
Rat-Pak Records
CM Distro
Metal Heaven
I tunes
Disc Union
Rhapsody
Myspace.com/ronnymunroe
Myspace.com/ratpakrecords
And a few other places as well!
Hanna Tsepesh: What is your personal opinion about metal in our days and what is the best advice that you can tell to the young bands out there?

Ronny: Metal will always be around no matter what, the people won’t let that die, ever. As far as advice, have a back up plan, get your education because it’s a very tough business so be prepared.

Hanna Tsepesh: You want to send any message for your fans?

Ronny: I want to thank all the fans that have supported me through my years with Metal Church and beyond. I have great fans that support me very much and that makes me a very lucky guy!

Hanna Tsepesh: Thanks so much for your answers and time! THE GATES OF METAL wish you a big success and good luck for your projects! We hope to see you very soon at Portugal…

Ronny: Thank you Hanna and I hope to get to Portugal very soon. Take care and keep the metal faith.

Hanna Tsepesh: You are very welcome Ronny! All the best and thank you!

By: Hanna Tsepesh
To listen to some RONNY MUNROE songs and for future information go at:
www.myspace.com/ronnymunroe

NERVECELL

Hanna Tsepesh: Hello James Khazaal! Thanks so much for accepting this interview and Welcome to THE GATES OF METAL!

James Khazaal: Hey Hanna the pleasure is mine, and hails to you and the army of ”The Gates of Metal".

Hanna Tsepesh: Thank you James! First of all: how are you and how are the things doing with your concerts?

James Khazaal: I am in Great Spirit along with since the start of this busy summer. A lot of work with the band, and my educational efforts (currently finishing up with my Masters in E-Commerce). We are touring, and barely sleeping, which we always wanted to do. All the concerts are surprisingly great and memorable since this is actually the first time for us on a full time European Tour.

Hanna Tsepesh: cool! For those who do not know Nervecell could tell us a little how it all started?

James Khazaal: It all started as a hobby along with playing underground gigs, and battle of the bands. It was clear that the band had a great vibe on stage, with stage performance and cool crowd reactions. Before I joined Barney who is actually the only original member of the band, Nervecell was mainly hardcore. I joined and later came Rami on lead guitars, as I started on bass and the band was testing vocalists, people where coming in and out of the band. I asked to commit to both vocal and bass duties, and the guys were more than happy to give me a chance. The band has formed a new path, by heading towards a death metal base. Meanwhile we continued to play shows and people were still flowing in to see us despite our change in genre, since the band also includes elements of thrash, hardcore, and melodic tunes. The metal atmosphere in our region is not mature; this sort of music is not widely admired. Mainstream, commercial, easy listening, etc. music have always been present in our side of the world. Despite all hardships we stuck to our guns, and continued to produce and play the music we respect and love. The scene is slowly growing, and metal is catching awareness, and we as Nervecell feel it’s our responsibility to continue pushing this sort of music to our region, by giving it a good name. We are happy to set an example to the bands and people in our region.

Hanna Tsepesh: What inspired you the most to create the lyrics? The band writes the lyrics first or first the band creates the riffs to comply with the lyrics?

James Khazaal: I was always fond of writing poetry and studying literature. I think knowing Arabic got me to where I am today with writing lyrics. For people who don’t know the language, it is considered to be one of the top 3 hardest languages to learn. Many words in Arabic don’t have a meaning in English. With respect to English, it is simple to learn and it is not very complex. When I write, it’s all about what I feel (life experiences, what’s happening to the world, anger, the reason why things are what they are, REALITY) to cut a long story short Nervecell Lyrics are a brutal version of Death the band. I don’t stress or focus on political or religious issues. Although I am a strong believer, I support the thought of: everyone has the right to do what he or she wills. We have a brain and we know what’s right and what’s wrong. Plus self respect is the only way to find peace. If someone doesn’t believe in himself, he will never progress and appreciate life. Nervecell lyrics are: Do what you feel is right to do, but you should be responsible for the consequences. As far as the writing process goes it’s both ways. I write poems whenever I get an idea or inspiration. But there are also times when music is first created and then I build my thoughts around the vibe of the song, after all music is also a language. The guys are also great at doing song titles. I also wouldn’t mind if any one in Nervecell would want to contribute into the lyrics of Nervecell.

Hanna Tsepesh: What are your favorite bands? You have any singer that you admire the most?

James Khazaal: My main influences have always been death metal bands like Cannibal Corpse and Deicide for my vocal and bass duties. They are idols. I am also into other bands like Morbid Angel, Aborted, and plus the new bands that are rising viciously in death metal which I admire such as The Faceless, Job for a Cowboy, The Black Dhalia Mude, andr the list goes on and on.
There are many singers I value and learn of from them:
- George Fisher (C.Corpse) and Glenn Benton (Deicide)
- Sven de Caluwe (Aborted)
- Jamey (Hatebreed)
- Max Cavalera
(in no ranking or order they are all equal)
as to why I look up to them? They created their own style, and they still stick to their original music with no compromise not like bands that changed through time (no need to mention names [laughs]). and each one of them have their own stage presence. Seeing these guys on stage is a whole new story that changes someone's life.

Hanna Tsepesh: I would like to know if you had or have any guttural technique lessons?

James Khazaal: (laughs) not really, I just started growling in a day and night. It was hard to maintain it at the beginning because I was losing my voice. But I do some training or warm ups before I go on stage or record, and I take certain things to keep my voice at its peak. Room temperature water, Lemon and Orange juice, Coffee, cigarettes, it all helps me. It differs from a singer to another. For example George from Cannibal Corpse doesn’t smoke. And plus I don’t drink alcohol. It took me 3 years to know this (laughs), but I am learning each day and the sky is the limit.


Hanna Tsepesh: The band has a new album called “Preaching Venom”. For people who don’t listen yet can you tell to us what we can expect about this new album and what the band wants to accomplish?

James Khazaal: Well about Preaching Venom, I can tell everyone that it’s my favorite album, I listen to it once a day. It’s brutal, groovey, technical, melodic, what else. It’s a great album to listen to, I love all the songs cause they all have their own atmosphere.
On behalf of the band I am proud to say that our main goal is to play this music in every corner of the world, and share our music from all around the world. And last but not least to let death metal or metal in general to grow in our region, to get others bands around us there to start working harder because nothing is impossible even in the middle east.


Hanna Tsepesh: The band feels proud with the final result or you think that miss something? Everything went well at recording studio? Did you think that this album required more of you?

James Khazaal: Its a great result, we wanted this long time ago, quality production, great music, what else can we ask. Plus hell of a lot of shows to play in and a record deal. We are really proud and to us this is just the beginning. Recording went great, but it took a lot of time. The recording went on tour before us (laughs), recording drums with Dave from Psychroptic in Australia, Mixing in Poland, and mastering in the United States. And yes this album took a lot of time to create. Where we live, it’s hard to create this music at a professional level. Music is about talent and devotion, but quality is key and if both of these are together, a master piece is born.
We had a goal, and we did the impossible to accomplish it. I thank everyone in the band cause they all worked their asses of. Everything is paying back now, and we are thankful for that.

Hanna Tsepesh: How has the response been to the album by the media and fans? I saw some cool reviews at MySpace, did you expect that cool scores about this album?

James Khazaal: Fans are great, and the army is growing. People are appreciating what we do and I can see that in their eyes and their reaction. Media is also interesting but also funny, we are getting interviews and articles in the press around us in the region. The Middle East is actually interested in what we are doing, and I hope its because they can see how hard working and serious we are. it took us nine years to prove this point. Patience is key to success. Well we worked on this album with the feedback we got from our old EP. Human Chaos. A band should always accept constructive criticism and constantly mature musically. We had that in our mind when we were doing Preaching Venom. People who reviewed Human Chaos where really happy with Preaching Venom.

Hanna Tsepesh: The album cover is very cool! Who was the person behind this work? You think that this art cover transmit what “Preaching Venom” are?

James Khazaal: Dennis Sibeijn for Monument Studio. He did a great job at representing the visional meaning of what the title and songs represented "it is very scary to know how far people can go to achieve what they want in life. Lying, betrayal, and stealing to reach to the level they want to be in, and yet they will never be satisfied".
We went over his previous works with Chiamera, Sworn Enemy, and Aborted of course. The colors played an important role to complete the whole picture of what we were trying to talk about, musically and lyrically.

Hanna Tsepesh: If one of our readers wants to buy your album, what they can do?

James Khazaal: we are selling our album online through CD baby. If people are willing to be patient, they will find it in all stores in Europe October 27th.


Hanna Tsepesh: what is your favorite music in this album and why?

James Khazaal: My personal Favorite is Demean because I contributed musically in this song. When I compose music I use the guitar, I had some riffs in my mind and the band was more than happy to go with it. The song has twisted meaning regarding the title. It one word but the explanation can go on for weeks. Basically is to lower someone's self. And here I say again its to the people who don’t respect and believe in themselves. The degrade themselves towards their life and goals. So stay Loyal and true!

Hanna Tsepesh: You guys played at METAL GDL (in Grândola 5 and 6 June) here in Portugal. How was that concert for you and the band? Did you guys like our country and the audience?

James Khazaal: Man Portugal. Love the festival, the people, and the food. To me as much as Nervecell is important, feed holds a special area in my heart. I live to eat (laughs). Sadly we spent less than a day there, but I would love to go back there. People were crazy and very supportive and loyal; you can see it in their eyes. And to me Portugal is great because of its food. You are what you eat, and since the food in Portugal is great, then the people are. I want some Portuguese seasoned chicken, white rice, salad with lemon and viniger, to me that’s a honey moon. (laughs)

Hanna Tsepesh: (laughs) we are very happy that you like our country! Thank you! Do you want to send any message for the people who going to read this interview?

James Khazaal: Hell yeah, to the people reading this, wherever you are we are coming over to play a great show at your area, and we will all have a great time. Until then may god bless all and keep it metal on Behalf of the whole band.
Last But not least, thanks to you Hanna, good luck to you and the crew of "The Gates of Metal"!

Hanna Tsepesh: you are very welcome and thanks so much for your words! We hope to see Nervecell again in here…

By: Hanna Tsepesh
To listen to some NERVECELL music’s and for future information’s go at:
www.myspace.com/nervecell
www.nervecell.net/

WEB

Hanna Tsepesh: Olá (Hello in Portuguese) Victor and Fernando! Thanks so much for accepting this interview and Welcome to THE GATES OF METAL! First of all: how are you guys and how are the things doing with your concerts?

Fernando: We are doing fine, thank you for asking. We haven’t been playing as much as our personal lives let us. But we can´t complain, we have been doing a lot of concerts.

Victor: Very well, just finished moving to our new rehearsal place, and getting ready for our “fall 2009 mini tour”! We will be playing in the 31st in the festival Gaia in Peso and more shows to be announced soon!

Hanna Tsepesh: For those who do not know Web could tell us a little how it all started?

Victor: We started in 1986, at time we all are Tarantula’s roadies and we decided to start our own band. In July 1987, we played our first gig in Rock Rendez Vouz, a mythical room where all the bands played those days.
In these times we were considered Black Metal or Death Metal; therefore our sound did not have much to see with what the remaining Portuguese bands made.

Hanna Tsepesh: Let’s pretend that Fernando is not in here (laughs) and I would like that you tell to us what is your opinion about Fernando work so far and what you think that he bring to the band.

Victor: I will divide in two phases, the first one (1993), when Fernando entered Web as bass player, bringing much more consistency in the rhythmic section and finally someone wise enough to make choirs. In the second phase, when Fernando started singing, Web had finally found the ideal person to replace previous singer David (RIP) without depriving the band’s characteristics.

Hanna Tsepesh: Fernando, it was difficult your integration in this band and be accepted by the fans? Now we know from Victor what you bring to the band, but in your point of view I would like to know if you think that you bring something new to the band?

Fernando: As you know, my primal function in Web was playing bass, and thinking back to those days I have to say that it wasn´t difficult at all the integration in the Web family, I have to say that it was quite easy.
What is the fans acceptance? I don’t know. I think I was well accepted as a bass player.
When I had to “replace” (we can´t replace who is irreplaceable) David in the vocals, I know there were some fans that didn´t enjoy it very much, but I think it was not because of the person who was replacing but because the person who was being replaced.
Everybody always leave or bring something to what they do, I am no different. Telling you what it was, that’s the problem. Consciously, I don´t know.
Hanna Tsepesh: What are your favorite bands? You guys have any musician that you admire the most?

Victor: Among so many good bands we enlighten a few such as: Black Sabbath, Candlemass, Iced Earth, Slayer, Amon Amarth, Alice Cooper, Status Quo, Anthrax, AC/DC, Judas Priest, Pitch Black, Venom, Slipknot, Onslaught, Mercyful Fate, Nevermore, Overkill, Behemoth, Pantera, The Sword, Uriah Heep, Testament, Zed Yago, Thin Lizzy, Lyzanxia, Angtoria, Equaleft, Ancient Rites, Iron Maiden, U.F.O, MSG., Lamb Of God.
First of All - Fernando, Pedro and Filipe - The other members of the Web family, they are Great Guys and Great friends too.
Tommy Iommi – for his Riffs
Randhy Roads – for me is the Best
Francis Rossi ‘n’ Rick Parfitt - for its perseverance
Rory Gallagher – I miss this guy
Dio, Alice Cooper - for its way of being
Tim “Ripper” Owens - for being such a great singer that is always getting fired!
And all the musicians that I consider my friends with whom I amuse myself when seeing or playing concerts.

Fernando: My favorite Metal bands! AC/DC, Slayer, Coroner, Iron Maiden, Megadeth, Metallica… and few more.
Favorite musician…I don´t know, maybe Angus Young from AC/DC, because it was with them that I started to listen to real music, and because of his presence on stage.

Hanna Tsepesh: Fernando, I would like to know if you had or have any guttural technique lessons?

Fernando: No. I had some vocal lessons with Jorge Marques from Tarantula, but it was a long time ago. Some breading exercises, that was all.

Hanna Tsepesh: Victor, when you start to play guitar? Why you pick this instrument?

Victor: I started playing acoustic guitar when I was 12 years, but I gave up because I didn’t like it. When I had eighteen I started play electric guitar.
I pick this instrument because my childhood idols were, almost all, guitar players.

Hanna Tsepesh: What inspired you the most to create the lyrics? The band writes the lyrics first or first the band creates the riffs to comply with the lyrics?

Fernando: Inspiration comes from everywhere! Thoughts, movies, words, music…. Something will come out when you want to write.
We work the music first and then the lyrics, but in the World Wild Web it was the opposite. The lyrics came from a story that Victor wrote (in a very pooooooor English!!!). We took the story and converted it into 10 lyrics. The album is a story from the beginning to the end.

Victor: Our inspiration relies on the world we live in, we try to transmit our message joining a little of fantasy, mysticism and sarcasm.
Although in the World Wild Web album, lyrics appeared first, now we make the music and then the lyrics.

Hanna Tsepesh: Let’s talk about the “World Wild Web” album. I think is impossible to don’t like this album or to don’t be addicted by this album! I liked a lot this album and for me the band makes a fantastic work, I am very surprised with Web talent! My favorite’s music’s is: “Hopeful” and “Last War”. For people who don’t listen yet can you tell to us about this album?

Victor: The whole idea was to make a conceptual album. It tells a story that will happen in the future which the main characters are the children, the Mother Nature and a hermit. It deals with the effects that mankind plays on nature and what goes around, comes around.
Musically we can talk about a lot of Thrash influences and other styles as Doom, Power, and a few Rock.

Fernando: Like I said, this is a conceptual album, because it tells a story. A story from the past, present and future of a World we know or don´t know. It’s up to you to decide.
Hopeful and Last war are two chapters in the story. Just for curiosity, Last war came out on the Promo Tape in 1995 as long with Strong Winds.


Hanna Tsepesh: Everything went well at recording studio? How was working with Luis Barros? It was easy to work with him?

Victor: Luis Barros knows Web since its beginning. He was completely inside our ideas and what we want to have as final result. From these terms he delivered the production, recording and mixing of the album. It was very easy and productive to work with him.

Fernando: It went well. It is quite easy to work with Luis. He knows the band from the day we were born and he knew our intentions for the album, so, it went real well. And he is a great person and musician.

Hanna Tsepesh: The album cover is very interesting and cool! Who was the person behind this cool work? Did you think that transmit what “World Wild Web” are?

Victor: Jorge Martins is the guy who made the album cover. I think that it passes our message that the Earth evolution and the old problems will be always there, no matter the place, the time or the actors!
Personally I love the front artwork!

Fernando: The cover was made by my brother Jorge with one finger or two from Web. We gave him some ideas of what we wanted, we already had the name for the album, and he worked from there. Yes I think it does.

Hanna Tsepesh: How has the response been to the album by the fans in your concerts?
Fernando: It is great. The album has a lot of acceptance, and most of the people who listen enjoy it. In the concerts is gratifying to see the fans singing along.

Victor: It has been very good and diversified; ones ask for some songs, others ask for other, what makes me to say that the album is sufficiently balanced.

Hanna Tsepesh: If one of our readers wants to buy your album, what they can do?

Victor: It’s very easy. They can order it at: web@aeiou.pt or
www.myspace.com/webthrashmetal

Fernando: Just send us an email to web@aeiou.pt, and we make sure that is delivered.

Hanna Tsepesh: what is your favorite music in this album and why?

Victor: “If only there was light” - for its energy, structure and for its diversified riffs that all together they do not seem to be so rip off, don't look so different and perfectly match one in another!

Fernando: Maybe Strong Winds Strong Waves, I don´t know why but I like it a lot.

Hanna Tsepesh: What are the future plains for Web? The band is thinking about a future album or something?

Victor: Doing gigs and preparing our next album.

Fernando: We are composing the next album, so I must say that our future passes in recording another album. Soon we hope.

Hanna Tsepesh: What is your opinion about the metal in our country (Portugal)?

Victor: It is increasing and now is stronger, unified and ripening, having now, in my opinion, more union between the different metal styles and bands.

Fernando: It is stronger every day. There are bands with very good quality.

Hanna Tsepesh: Do you want to send any message for the people who going to read this interview?

Victor: “STAY METAL!” with proud!

Fernando: For the Portuguese readers, keep supporting our bands. For all readers, stay true!

Hanna Tsepesh: Thanks o much for your answers and time. THE GATES OF METAL wishes the entire band a big success and I hope to listen to another album very soon! See you guys very soon on stage…

Fernando: Thanks for this interview, and hope to see you soon in the crowd.

Victor: Thanks a lot for the opportunity to Web, and congratulations for your good work!

Hanna Tsepesh: You guys are very welcome and thanks for your words! All the best...

By: Hanna Tsepesh
To listen to some WEB music’s and for future information’s go at:
www.myspace.com/webthrashmetal

THE FACELESS

Hanna Tsepesh: Hello Demon Carcass! Thanks so much for accepting this interview and Welcome to THE GATES OF METAL! First of all: how are you guys and how are the things doing with your concerts?

Demon: Hey thanks for having me! Things are going really well for us right now, we are getting ready to hit the road with In Flames and Between the Buried and Me, then we have a headlining run coming up later this year, and then in January 2010 we will finally be getting over to Europe for a proper tour. And you can just call me Derek if you want. (laughs)

Hanna Tsepesh:Ok Derek (laughs). For those who do not know Faceless could tell us a little how it all started?

Derek : The band was originally formed in high school before I was involved. When things got more serious and they needed a full time dedicated member, they recruited me. I joined the band and recorded the first album, Akeldama, after all the songs had already been written, and then we toured pretty much non-stop for a long time.

Hanna Tsepesh: What inspired you the most to create the lyrics? The band writes the lyrics first or first the band creates the riffs to comply with the lyrics?

Derek : The lyrics were a team effort, and we all worked together on them. At the time, we were all into (and still are) conspiracy theories, and things involving the suppression of consciousness by a higher governing power. We all read a book called "Children of the Matrix" by Daivd Icke, and decided to base the lyrics on the ideas he was talking about. We write the music first, then the lyrics.

Hanna Tsepesh: What are your favorite bands? You have any singer that you admire the most?

Derek : Some bands I've really been digging lately, at least in the world of metal, are Deeds of Flesh, Hour of Pennance, Spawn of Possession, Opeth, Bloodbath, and Fleshrot (from San Francisco). I've been meaning to check out the new Gorod album, but keep forgetting to. I try not to admire or have influence from other singers, but if I had to choose I'd say Mikael Åkerfeldt. He's the best in my opinion, he can do it all. I actually met him in the Czech Republic at Brutal Assault recently, and it was one of the few times I can remember being a little star struck haha.

Hanna Tsepesh: I would like to know if you had or have any guttural technique lessons?

Derek: As far as I know I don't even have a technique. People often ask me for tips or advice, and I honestly don't know what to tell them. I've been a metal vocalist for a long time now, and I figured it out on my own, and that's the best advice I can give. I feel that vocal techniques are unique for every person. The one tip I can feel good about giving is that you shouldn't try to sound like anyone else. Your voice will do what it is capable of, and that is different in every person. You can hurt yourself, or just sound shitty forever if you are trying to emulate someone else. Just do what your body allows, and build technique from there.

Hanna Tsepesh: Faceless have a new album called “Planetary Duality”. For people who don’t listen yet can you tell to us what we can expect about your new album and what the band wants to accomplish?

Derek : The album was released in Europe on LIfeforce Records in February I believe, and if you haven't got a chance to listen to it yet, go out and get it! It offers technical progressive death metal, but there is something for everyone on the album. We hoped that the album would help gain us fans worldwide, and it has definitely done so. We have been to Australia, Japan, and parts of Europe this year, and will be coming to Europe for 5 weeks in January.

Hanna Tsepesh: Everything went well at recording studio? The band feels proud with the final result or you think that miss something?

Derek: We are all very proud of the product we have produced. Things got a little rushed at the end of the recording cycle, we went long in the studio and probably could've used a few more days, but yes, we feel everything turned out very well. The only thing that I hoped was that the album could've been a little longer.

Hanna Tsepesh: How has the response been to the album by the media and fans?

Derek: The response has been surprisingly great. We sold around 5800 copies of the album the first week it was released in the States, and that got us on the Billboard Top 200, i think number 119. That was quite an honor. The media and fans seem to taking kindly to the album, and we are getting on some amazing tours because of what we've achieved with it.

Hanna Tsepesh: If one of our readers wants to buy your album safely, what they can do?

Derek: I'm not sure if I understand this question properly, but the safest way would be to go to any store that carries Lifeforce Records, and pick it up. You can order it from many places online also.
Hanna Tsepesh: what is your favorite music in this album and why?

Derek : I like all the songs on the album because they are all so different, yet have the same feel at the same time. It's a very cohesive album while having many different sounds going on. Right now, I'd have to say that the 2 title tracks are my favorite, simply because we haven't played them in a live setting yet, so I'm not so burnt out on them. (laughs)
Hanna Tsepesh: The band is thinking about a European tour? You guys have plains to include Portugal in your tour or something?

Derek: We will be on tour with The Black Dahlia Murder and many other acts as a part of the Bonecrusher Tour. This is the info I have for our performance in Portugal:
28/01 Portugal, Porto, Cine Teatro Júlio Diniz.

Hanna Tsepesh: Fantastic, thanks for the information! Do you want to send any message for the people who going to read this interview?

Derek: I'd just like to thank anyone who has listened to The Faceless, and who has purchased our newest album, Planetary Duality. Thanks for reading the interview and supporting the band. We all appreciate it very very much.

Hanna Tsepesh: Thanks o much for your answers and time. THE GATES OF METAL wishes the entire band a great big with “Planetary Duality”! See you guys on January 28…

Derek : Check out Planetary Duality out on Lifeforce Records, and we'll see you in Portugal on January 28!

By: Hanna Tsepesh
To listen to some FACELESS music’s and for future information’s go at:
www.myspace.com/thefaceless

ILLDISPOSED

Hanna Tsepesh: Hello Jakob Batten! Thanks so much for accepting this interview and Welcome to THE GATES OF METAL! First of all: how are you and how are the things doing with your concerts?

Jakob: Hey Hanna, thank you for your interest in the band. To begin with the bad things I was ill the past two weeks so I’ve been canceling interviews and rehearsals and everything. It was pretty bad but I’m getting well now – fortunately because we begin the MTV Headbangers Ball tour here in Denmark tomorrow. We’re headlining the tour and Hatesphere and Dawn Of Demise are with us on the bill. It’ll be heavy!

Hanna Tsepesh: For those who do not know Illdisposed could tell us a little how it all started?

Jakob: Jeez that’s a long time ago. The band was formed in 1991 by singer Bo Summer. For me it started in 1999 when I joined the band. I got to know the guys when my former band Infernal Torment did a documentary movie with Illdisposed and another band back in 1995. Then in 1997 my former band supported Illdisposed on a tour in Denmark and Germany and some time after that the Bassplayer of Illdisposed left the band and they asked me to join. So the first few years I played bass in the band. We’re up on 10 full length albums and a mini album now.

Hanna Tsepesh: What inspired you the most to create the lyrics? The band writes the lyrics first or first the band creates the riffs to comply with the lyrics?

Jakob: I always write the music first and then Bo is writing the lyrics to fit the music. The lyrics are personal to him so they are difficult for me to talk about. They deal with his problems, personal battles and opinions on things. There’s a lot of hate and depression going on.

Hanna Tsepesh: What are your favorite bands? You have any musician that you admire the most?

Jakob: Right at the moment I think the new Mastodon album kicks ass. It’s very honest and full of layers you can explore. But I don’t listen much to metal music, I think I get enough of that with the band. I mainly listen to the radio in my car. If I have to listen to metal it’ll be something like Carcass “Necroticism” og Morbid Anget “Covenant”. I like to hear that people are actually playing for real instead of all these overproduced bands today that are so tight that you can set your watch after them.
I admire a guitarist like John Petrucci from Dream Theater. He can play so it touches me deeply. That’s what it’s about for me.

Hanna Tsepesh: I would like to know when you start to play guitar and why you choose to play this instrument?

Jakob: I was around 13 years old. Before that I played piano, drums and bass. I started with piano when I was 5. I’ve always been a musician and always had music going on in my head constantly. But when I got my first guitar and bought a distortion pedal I knew that this was me. There’s so much power and when you learn to control the power you’ve got it. Many people think that your amp is making your sound, but in real it’s only making 50% of it. The rest is in your fingers.

Hanna Tsepesh: You have another band or project in hands or your time is 100% for Illdisposed?

Jakob: I’m 100% Illdisposed right now. I won’t say that it will always be like that but right now it is.

Hanna Tsepesh: The band has a new album called “To those who walk behind us". For people who don’t listen yet can you talk about this new album and what is the big different for you between this album and the previous one? Also, some people told me that “To those who walk behind us" is the best Illdisposed album…you agree on this?

Jakob: To me it’s the album that is taking the last 3 albums we did and putting them together into one piece. And it’s definitely one of the more melodic albums we did. I think you can never say that the newest album is the best one, it always takes a few years to realize if that’s the case or not. But so far people seem to like it a lot, also the reviews look very good so far.

Hanna Tsepesh: Everything went well at recording studio? It was an easy process? The band feels proud with the final result or you think that miss something?

Jakob: It was more relaxing this time because I produced and engineered the album myself. That gave us the freedom to come and go whenever we wanted to. It’s hard to get your best moments fit into a schedule. So that was great. And we’re very happy with the result. Of course there’s always things you can change afterwards, you just have to learn to stop and say “now it’s done”. And then forget about it. No more changes.

Hanna Tsepesh: How has the response been to the album by the media and fans? I saw some cool review at MySpace…this reviews surprised you?

Jakob: More than 90% of the reviews I saw so far are very good. There will always be 10% or more who just hates you and thinks you’re gay. That’s how it is with reviews. Our fans seem to like it and that’s the most important thing.

Hanna Tsepesh: If one of our readers wants to buy your album, what they can do?

Jakob: We opened our own official webstore recently at illdisposed.dk/store – that’s the best place I know. (laughs)

Hanna Tsepesh: what is your favorite music in this album and why?

Jakob: I’m a sucker for melodies so my favorites are: “If All The World”, “To Those Who Walk Behind Us” and “For The Record”

Hanna Tsepesh: You guys have plains to include Portugal in your tour or something?

Jakob: Definitely, we just need an offer from a promoter there, then we’re off! A good friend of mine is from Portugal and the soccer game last weekend ended 1-1 so we have no reason not to like each other. (laughs)

Hanna Tsepesh: (laughs). Do you want to send any message for the people who going to read this interview?

Jakob: Yeah, hopefully see you on tour soon. We’re doing what we can to visit your country. Until then check out our new album!

Hanna Tsepesh: Thanks o much for your answers and time. THE GATES OF METAL wishes the entire band a big success with "To those who walk behind us"! We hope to see Illdisposed very soon in here…

Jakob: Thank you for the interview Hanna – and hopefully see you soon as well! Cheers

Hanna Tsepesh: You are vry welcome Jakob! All the best...

By: Hanna Tsepesh
To listen to some ILLDISPOSED music’s and for future information’s go at:
www.myspace.com/illdisposed
illdisposed.com/

BENEDICTUM

Hanna Tsepesh: Hello Veronica! Thanks so much for accepting this interview and Welcome to THE GATES OF METAL! First of all: how are you and how are the things doing with your concerts?

Veronica: Things are going really well and as always I keep as busy as I can. Right now I would say that the focus is on writing new material. We have had a few good shows here and there but now we are shifting gears again.

Hanna Tsepesh: For those who do not know Benedictum could tell us a little how it all started?

Veronica: I would say we started in 2006 when my guitar play Pete Wells and I decided to move on from a project we were involved in and move into another direction. We had some help from our friend Craig Goldy who was able to put us in touch with Jeff Pilson who in turn agreed to work with and produce us. It was a totally great relationship from the start and we have two albums “Uncreation” and “Seasons of Tragedy”.

Hanna Tsepesh: What inspired the most to create the lyrics? The band writes the lyrics first or first the band creates the riffs to comply with the lyrics?

Veronica: I write all the lyrics and usually get inspired by how the music makes me feel. So in most cases the music comes first, I listen to it over and over and over until something starts to materialize and then out pops the lyrics!

Hanna Tsepesh: What are your favorite bands? You have any musician that you admire the most?

Veronica: I like everything from Tina Turner to Ronnie James Dio to Ella Fiztgerald to Annie Lennox, from Metal to Country to Classical. The more variety of music I think the better. I try not to listen to one type of music all the time because then my writing gets stale. You can gain influences from so many areas of music and appreciate the creative spark that really moves people. I honestly don’t have one favorite band but I admire anyone and everyone that can get out there and perform with passion and create music that stirs the soul.

Hanna Tsepesh: I would like to know if you had or have any singing lessons or any other preparation?

Veronica: No, I have never had singing lessons and at this point I think it is time I did. I learned the hard way on the road how easy it is to blow out your voice if you do not pace yourself.



Hanna Tsepesh: You are one of the amazing guests from the “Serenity” Cd (a project by Super Star [Kris Kancler] to stop Drug Addictions and Alcohol abuse). How has that experience for you and how you receive this cool invitation? Can you tell to us about this project?

Veronica: I have to be honest that when I got this email from someone named Superstar I thought “yeah right, sure your name is Superstar” and I thought maybe it was just a joke. But as I read the email further and saw the talent line up he had and that his press releases were real then I realized that I would love to be a part of something like this. It was really an honor to be considered for such a project to so I hopped all over it.
Basically the project is to draw awareness to the issue of alcohol and drug abuse especially with teenagers. Hopefully by putting out some cool music that also sends a message that you can not only live but thrive and be all you were meant to be in life without the use of drugs and alcohol.
The experience itself was a blast. We headed out to Los Angeles and it was totally cool to work with a different producer and Bob Kulick was a blast to work with. Pete Wells and Chris Shrum Benedictums’ guitar and bass player, also supported the project by sharing their talent on the tracks as well.

Hanna Tsepesh: Let’s talk about the “Seasons Of Tragedy” album. For people who don’t listen yet can you tell to us about this album?

Veronica: Seasons of Tragedy was our second album and I think it contains a wide variety of music. Some driving and haunting others more progressive and we are really happy with the way it came out. We have been called “tradition power metal on steroids “ I like that one!

Hanna Tsepesh: Everything went well at recording studio? The band feels pride with the final result or in your opinion is something that you like to change?

Veronica: If you are referring to Seasons of Tragedy I think that with almost everything in life there are things that if you had a chance to do over maybe you would do a bit different but the funny thing about it for me is that “thing” changes every time I hear it! Sometimes I wish I would have done some other things on “Steel Rain” other times I wish I would have left some phrases out of it. You know little things here and there but no major changes.
Hanna Tsepesh: How has the response been to the album by the fans and media?

Veronica: The response has been absolutely amazing. A second album is always “the one” you know after the cool reviews of “Uncreation” we were a bit nervous about how SOT would be received but we were pleasantly surprised to find that most people thought it was a great progression from the first to the second album.

Hanna Tsepesh: If one of our readers wants to buy your album, what they can do?

Veronica: You can go to www.benedictum.net or you can get it on Amazon.com

Hanna Tsepesh: what is your favorite music in this album and why?

Veronica: I think I have 2 favorite songs. The title track Seasons of Tragedy because it was really a group collaboration and had a little bit from everyone. Then I would say Bare Bones because it sort of has a cool groove to it.

Hanna Tsepesh: What is your opinion about the metal in your country? It is easy to get some support?

Veronica: I think things are starting to change a bit for the better. There is more interest finally in different types of metal and tastes are changing as well. As far as in the USA there are so many people who still have never even heard of us so that is sort of an advantage because our stuff is still being discovered and gives us a bit more longevity in this business at least for the time being.
It was hard at first to get support and our main fan base still remains in Europe but I see more and more interest growing here in the States.

Hanna Tsepesh: What is your big advice for a young musician?

Veronica: Read the fine print! Then read it again! Then again! Don’t trust anyone! They are not your friend. This is a business. Sounds harsh but I am still learning that this is true! Also don’t be afraid to be unique. Don’t let anyone define you or confine you! Think "outside of the box" when you can and bring forth something fresh.

Hanna Tsepesh: Do you want to send any message for the people who going to read this interview?

Veronica: I appreciate the invitation to share some thoughts with you and hope that some day we can actually play for you and have a great time. Benedictum invites you to check us out and bang your head with us!!

Hanna Tsepesh: Thanks o much for your answers and time. THE GATES OF METAL wishes the entire band a big success! Hope to see you guys very soon in here…

Veronica: Thanks to each and every person reading this interview and spread the word about Benedictum! We love you!

By: Hanna Tsepesh
To listen to some BENEDITIUM music’s and for future information’s go at:
www.myspace.com/benedictum
www.benedictum.net/

WITCHKING

Hanna Tsepesh: Hello Mateusz! Thanks so much for accepting this interview and Welcome to THE GATES OF METAL! For those who do not know Witchking could tell us a little how it all started?

Mateusz: I have formed the band with Darek Bieniek in 2003. We both left a band called Rapid Fire, hired other members and stared making songs for the first album. The line up has changed a lot until now. Currently we're preparing to record our third album.

Hanna Tsepesh: Now the band has a new vocalist, right? Can you explain to us that? You guys going to record some music’s with Michal Zaczek voice? Just for the people listen a little bit…

Mateusz: Tom the Storm left the band a few months ago due to personal reasons. Michal is a great vocalist and he will replace Tom well. At the moment we're working on both old and forthcoming songs. We are going to record some songs in near future for sure.

Hanna Tsepesh: What inspired the band the most to create the lyrics?

Mateusz: I have no idea, because Tom wrote all the lyrics for the last album.

Hanna Tsepesh: What are your favorite bands? You have any guitarist that you admire the most?

Mateusz: I get my inspiration from various bands, like Amon Amarth, DevilDriver, Machine Head. Recently I like to listen to other kinds of music besides metal. I have discovered Hans Zimmer with his soundtracks to Pirates of the Carribean or Batman - Dark Knight, Muse, Coldplay etc.

Hanna Tsepesh: I would like to know when you start to play guitar? Any reason to pick this instrument?

Mateusz: I started to play guitar 10 years ago. I've chosen to play guitar to get chicks, because I've heard it helps.

Hanna Tsepesh: Witchking have a new album called “Hand of Justice”. For people who don’t listen yet can you talk about this new album and what the band want to accomplish with this new album?

Mateusz: In my opinion Hand of Justice is much better than our first album. It is a mixture of heavy metal and thrash metal. Contrary to “Witchking” it is not a concept album. It has interesting melodies, fantastic riffs, and brilliant lyrics - generally kicks ass!

Hanna Tsepesh: The band feels proud with the final result or you think that miss something? Everything went well at recording studio? It was an easy process?

Mateusz: It was quite easy; we just entered the recording studio and played our parts. We knew exactly what we wanted to record, there were no surprises. Working with Tom Zalewski from ZED Recording Studio is a pleasure.

Hanna Tsepesh: How has the response been to the album by the media and fans?
Mateusz: We received very good response from both media and fans. The record is valued quite high in reviews. We got a huge feedback from fans around the world, who have sent us very kind words about the album.


Hanna Tsepesh: If one of our readers wants to buy your album, what they can do?

Mateusz: Our album is available mainly in Internet stores. You can find some links to them on our website.

Hanna Tsepesh: what is your favorite music in this album and why?

Mateusz: I can't choose one song that is better than the others, because I think that all songs are equally good. But if I had to choose just one, I would pick Metal Grail.

Hanna Tsepesh: How are the things doing about metal in your country? It is easy for a metal band have some support in your country?

Mateusz: It's not very bad, but not very good as well. We have a few very good bands here that I am a fan of. But we have problems with attendance on live shows in Poland. Some time ago I was at a concert of an experienced, well known Polish band and there were about 15 people in the club. But it looks like it is changing; we're hosting more foreign bands and it looks promising.

Hanna Tsepesh: The band is thinking about a European tour? You guys have plains to include Portugal in your tour or something?

Mateusz: Yes, we will try to extend our territory after releasing the third album. But I don't think about it now, I am concentrated on writing songs. It is hard to be the musician and the manager in one. Anyway, we have an offer to play in Portugal and I hope we will make it. Time will show.

Hanna Tsepesh: Great to ear that! Do you want to send any message for the people who going to read this interview?

Mateusz: Thanks for reading and supporting us. See you on gigs!

Hanna Tsepesh: Thanks o much for your answers and time. THE GATES OF METAL wishes the entire band a great success with this great album! We hope to see you guys very soon in here…

Mateusz: I hope so too! Thanks!

By: Hanna Tsepesh
To listen to some WITCHKING music’s and for future information’s go at:
www.myspace.com/witchkingband
www.witchking.pl/

PULSE 8

Hanna Tsepesh: Hello Doug! Thanks so much for accepting this interview and Welcome to THE GATES OF METAL! First of all: how are you and how are the things doing with your concerts?

Doug: Great just finishing up a great summer of shows, we have a couple left with our last being on Halloween before we go and record in Nov. & Dec.

Hanna Tsepesh: For those who do not know Pulse 8 could tell us a little how it all started?

Doug: Well it all started about 8-9 years ago when a previous drummer called me out to try out for a band him and Damon were putting together, I had been out of the music scene for about a year so I agreed. After a try out they asked me to stick around which I did and we then got Damon’s brother Scott, went through a couple of drummers and countless bass players to the ones we have now and the rest as they say is history.

Hanna Tsepesh: What inspired you the most to create the lyrics? The band writes the lyrics first or first the band creates the riffs to comply with the lyrics?

Doug: The band writes the song, and then I take it home, or write it on the spot taking issues from everything I can dredge up from my mind.

Hanna Tsepesh: What are your favorite bands? You have any musician that you admire the most?

Doug: I like everything from Jazz to Death Metal, I’d say Chuck Schudliner from Death, Mike Patton from Mr. Bungle, Wayne Static from StaticX, Eric AK from Flotsam & Jetsam, & Mark Osegueda are some of my favorite.

Hanna Tsepesh: Let’s talk about the “Tell Me What It Is” album. For people who don’t listen yet can you tell to us what we can expect from this album?

Doug: An album that goes from beginning to end with a drive that makes one find themselves bobbing their head.

Hanna Tsepesh: Everything went well at recording studio? The band feels pride with the final result or in your opinion is something that you like to change?

Doug: Yea everything went well, and we pretty happy, but a lot of musicians say that after a while you hear thing you might of tried different but overall we are very happy with “Tell Me What it is”.

Hanna Tsepesh: How has the response been to the album by the fans and media?

Doug: Great, everywhere and everyone, has seemed to really take to album and looking forward to our new one.

Hanna Tsepesh: If one of our readers wants to buy your album, what they can do?

Doug: Just about everywhere online: www.ratpakrecords.com
www.cmdistro.com & www.itunes.com

Hanna Tsepesh: what is your favorite music in this album and why?

Doug: I like it all it blends a lot of different elements which I really like.

Hanna Tsepesh: What is your opinion about the metal in our country? It is easy to get some support?

Doug: I think it’s growing and clubs and booking agents need to support it more, because it is getting bigger, if they haven’t already noticed.

Hanna Tsepesh: What is your big advice for a young musician?

Doug: Just keep true to yourself and never give up on your dream!

Hanna Tsepesh: Thanks o much for your answers and time. THE GATES OF METAL wishes the entire band a big success! Hope to see you guys very soon in here…

Doug: Myself and the rest of the members of Pulse8 would like to thank you and The Gates of Metal for giving us this opportunity to do an interview. Thanks again

Hanna Tsepesh: You guys are very welcome and thank you!

By: Hanna Tsepesh
To listen to some PULSE 8 music’s and for future information’s go at:
www.myspace.com/pulse8

Q

Hanna Tsepesh: Hello Missy! Thanks so much for accepting this interview and Welcome to THE GATES OF METAL! First of all: how are you and how are the things doing with your concerts?
Missy: Things are busy. Not as many shows due to writing new material and other things going on.

Hanna Tsepesh: For those who do not know Q could tell us a little how it all started and why the band decided the band name?
Missy: The guitarist myself and the old drummer have been friends for a very long time. We have always tried to get together but didn’t connect until 2000. We all started to play and then booked a show without a name! OOOPPPS! We didn’t want to over think it and wanted it easy to spell. So the guitarist blurted out the letter Q! We laughed but then said Hey…… why not!

Hanna Tsepesh: What are your favorite bands? You have any musician that you admire the most?
Missy: I can’t speak for the others but I really don’t have a favorite band. Of the “heavy rock/metal” music, I respect Korn, Rob Zombie, Nine Inch Nails, Queensryche to name a few. I tend to like many styles and many bands but much of the music played on the “main stream” radio from 1999-2007 bored me.

Hanna Tsepesh: You have another band or some future project? Or your time is only for Q?
Missy: Mostly Q. We always have our hands in something but one band is enough. We have fun and that’s all we need.

Hanna Tsepesh: I would like to know if you had or have any singing lessons or any other preparation?
Missy: Not a lot. I played trumpet, piano and bass guitar over the years. The band prior to Q I was stuck singing and playing bass. I was in the chorus in school but that’s about it.

Hanna Tsepesh: What inspired you the most to create the lyrics? The band writes the lyrics first or first the band creates the riffs to comply with the lyrics?
Missy: I write the lyrics. Life inspires me. Most of the time they are written to the music but nothing is set in stone, ever.

Hanna Tsepesh: Let’s talk about the “Seven7een” album. For people who don’t listen yet can you tell to us about this album and what the band want to accomplish?
Missy: It’s a comp of many Q tunes, new and old. We have traveled a long way, played many shows and met a lot of people. We are not trying to prove a thing but the love of the moment.
We want to accomplish writing something we like. That’s it. I enjoy when people like and sing along but we write for the band and then welcome everyone to join in. Things have changed so much in 10 years that all you can do is stay true to who you are. There is no magic tour bus.

Hanna Tsepesh: Everything went well at recording studio? The band feels pride with the final result or in your opinion is something that you like to change?
Missy: We love to record. You can really dig in and isolate every bit and piece. You really know how good or terrible you are from that! With most bands, I believe we all want to change things at a later date.

Hanna Tsepesh: How has the response been to the album by the fans and media?
Missy: So far so good. I think the tunes are broad and you can find something on the album you will like. People that come to a live show always sing along, which is always a good thing.

Hanna Tsepesh: If one of our readers wants to buy your album safely, what they can do?
Missy: Go to Rat Pak Records, Thisisq.com, FYE, Bullmoose Records and more. You can access all locations via the Rat Pak Records MySpace/website.

Hanna Tsepesh: what is your favorite music in this album and why?
Missy: I don’t have one. Each tune is different to me. It really depends on the mood and so on. I know it sounds passive but they all have a meaning and I can’t get stuck to one mood all the time.

Hanna Tsepesh: It is easy to get some support?
Missy: probably not. That is short and sweet but true.

Hanna Tsepesh: What is your big advice for a young musician?
Missy: Don’t Try, just DO! Be you not who is now.

Hanna Tsepesh: Do you want to send any message for the people who going to read this interview?
Missy: I hope you like our music. We enjoy playing live and that you still keep original music alive. We need more open minds like you!

Hanna Tsepesh: Thanks o much for your answers and time. THE GATES OF METAL wishes the entire band a big success! Hope to see you guys very soon in here…
Missy: Same to you. We hope the best for everyone. We look forward to speaking with you in the future.

Hanna Tsepesh: Thank you Missy! All the best...

By: Hanna Tsepesh
To listen to some Q music’s and for future information’s go at:
www.myspace.com/iseeq
www.thisisq.com/