Tuesday, March 21, 2017

Heavy Temple Interview

1.For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bit about the band? Heavy Temple started in 2012. I [Nighthawk] started writing that summer for a band that had yet to be. Then I found a line up and we started playing out. We've been through several incarnations since, but the current roster is not to be missed, with Tempest still on drums, and the newest addition Thunderhorse on guitar.

2.How would you describe the musical sound that is presented on the recordings? I have to think about this every time. It's everywhere. There are elements of doom, psych, stoner, desert, whatever kind of rock you want to assign a name to. It's really just heavy. If one listens carefully, from the first EP through the new one, they'll notice some hidden riffs. Like easter eggs. Though this EP is slightly more frantic, I think. Key and Bone is nearly 8 years old, Ursa was scrapped from the first EP, and the other two were written for a two piece.

3.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the music? The first album was about an exorcism of sorts. And the last track presented a new demon. This new album, Chassit, is inspired by the Dark Tower. And how it seemed to creep into my life, having somewhat parallel experiences with some of the characters.

4.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Heavy Temple'? It just seemed fitting for the aesthetic of the music.

5.What are some of the best shows that the band has played so far and also how would you describe your stage performance? We just wrapped up a tour with Pilgrim, and I'd have to say one of the best shows was at Geno's in Portland, ME with Manic Abraxas and Hessian, both killer locals. It was a party. Also Windhand were terrific. We've played with some killer bands, and Valient Thorr is on the top of that list. Being out really gave us a chance to work on our vibe. After the departure of Barghest we didn't know that we'd be able to find someone who do him justice. But we did, and we like to shred to the fullest extent of our capabilities.

6.What are some of the touring and show plans for 2017? We have a few shows lined up, mostly in the Philly area. But we'll be heading to Psycho Las Vegas this year in August, and then Shadow Woods Metal Fest in September. We're very much looking forward to both of those.

7.The ep was released on both 'Tridroid' and 'Van Records', are you happy with the support both labels have given you so far? Absolutely. Christine and Sven, respectively, have both been great to work with. They've both known us for about the same amount of time, and we're flattered that they still want to be involved in supporting Heavy Temple.

8.On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your music by  fans of psychedelic and doom metal? The response has been overwhelming. We wanted to put this album out the right way, since the first one was just supposed to be a demo. We're flattered and humbled by all of the support.

9.When can we expect a full length and also where do you see the band heading into musically during the future? The full length has pretty much been written for a year. With the addition of Thunderhorse I think we can finally start working on fleshing out the songs and get into the studio before the end of the year.

10.What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your music and also what are you listening to nowadays? Well, there are the obvious influences, which I'll leave to the reader/listener to decipher. But I draw on a lot. Everything from classical to Sabbath to early 2000's post punk. Recently we just hit Record Archive in Rochester so I can tell you what we listened to in the truck. In no particular order, Metallica, Wu Tang, Tool, Primus, Against Me, Die Antwoord, Motorhead, Jesus Lizard, The Dead Weather, Type O Negative, just to name a few.

11.What are some of your non musical interests? Reading. A lot. And currently Resident Evil 4

12.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts? Buy the ticket, take the ride. You won't regret seeing us.

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