Interview with Engineered Society Project

The Breakdown

In this episode of the ATX Metal Podcast, Ryan sits down with the band DSGNS to discuss their new record and their journey in creating it. They talk about the process of recording the album live and the challenges they faced. The band members also discuss their approach to playing chaotic music and their collaborative songwriting process. They reflect on the history of the band and the impact of COVID-19 on their music. The episode concludes with a discussion on the upcoming album release and their plans for the future. The conversation covers topics such as the importance of the car test in evaluating music, recording songs that feel good to play, childhood memories of broken CDs, the influence of different music genres, the challenges of the local metal scene, and the possibility of reviving it. The band also discusses their favorite songs to play from their new record and the process of choosing the track order. They express the need for a home base venue and the clickiness of the metal scene. The conversation concludes with shoutouts to local bands and a final farewell.

Quick Riffs

• DSGNS new record was recorded live, without the use of a click track, to capture the energy and spontaneity of their music.
• The band takes a collaborative approach to songwriting, with each member contributing to the process.
• The COVID-19 pandemic presented challenges for the band, but also provided them with the opportunity to fine-tune their music and artwork.
• Releasing music in singles allows the band to focus on each song individually and create unique artwork for each release.
• DSGNS is excited to release their new record and has plans to continue writing and recording new music in the future. The in car test is an important tool for evaluating music and ensuring that mixes sound good in different listening environments.
• Recording songs that feel good to play and evoke a positive response from the band members is crucial for capturing the right energy in the studio.
• Early exposure to different genres of music can shape one's musical preferences and influence their musical journey.
• The local metal scene can benefit from a home base venue that supports and promotes local bands, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
• The challenges of getting involved in the music scene and the clickiness of certain circles can make it difficult for bands to connect and collaborate with others.
• Choosing the track order for a record involves considering the flow of the songs, the emotions they evoke, and the overall story they tell.

Episode Info:

Bandcamp: Music | DSGNS (bandcamp.com)

YouTube: DSGNSMUSIC - YouTube

IG: DSGNS (@dsgns) • Instagram photos and videos

Website: DSGNS (dsgnsmusic.com)

Intro track: "Numb" by Bridges Ablaze

Featured track: "Second Death" by DSGNS

ATXMP Website: ATX Metal Podcast (transistor.fm)

Sponsors / Affiliates 

Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/

Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/

Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/

Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

The Breakdown

In this episode of the ATX Metal Podcast, Ryan interviews the band members Daniel and Stephen of Thumbscrew and delves into their journey as a metal band. The conversation covers their early years, the evolution of their sound, the transition to a new vocalist, recording and promotion challenges, touring experiences, and memorable moments on the road. The band members share their passion for music and the strong bond they formed as a group. Overall, the episode highlights the dedication and resilience required to pursue a career in the music industry. The guys discuss their experiences touring and traveling, the reunion and farewell shows, the dissolution of the band, the last hurrah and closure, the future of Thumbscrew, and the importance of the reunion. They express gratitude towards their friends, family, and fans.

Quick Riffs

• Touring and traveling with friends can lead to unforgettable experiences and lifelong friendships.
• The dissolution of a band can happen naturally as members pursue different paths in life.
• The last hurrah can be a chance to give fans a final show and create lasting memories.
• Reunions can be important for reconnecting with friends and reliving past experiences.

Episode Info:

Bandcamp: Music | Thumbscrew

IG: Thumbscrew (@thumbscrewtx)

YouTube: Thumbscrew Live Reunion Show - Full Set - Austin, TX

Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna

Featured track: "Maliscent" by Thumbscrew

ATXMP Website: ATX Metal Podcast (transistor.fm)

Sponsors / Affiliates 

Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/

Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/

Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/

Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

The Breakdown

In this episode of the ATX Metal Podcast, Ryan interviews Kevin Hellestad from the Chord Progression Podcast. They discuss the importance of supporting the local music scene and how to discover new bands. Kevin shares the origin story of his podcast and his passion for promoting local artists. They also talk about the challenges of being a podcaster and the impact of honesty in music reviews. Overall, the conversation highlights the value of supporting local musicians and the joy of discovering new music. The conversation covers topics such as supporting local music, the role of social media in the music industry, one-stop recording studios, ways to support local podcasters, podcast hosting and growth, expanding the podcast and interviewing big names, showcasing local talent, dream interviews, personal connections and cross-promotion, and final thoughts on supporting local music.

Quick Riffs

• Supporting the local music scene is crucial for the growth and success of local artists and is a collective effort that benefits musicians, podcasters, and the entire music industry.
• Discovering new bands and supporting them can lead to exciting experiences and connections.
• Social media metrics, such as likes, follows, and downloads, are becoming increasingly important for bands, venues, and promoters, and can impact opportunities for musicians.
• Showcasing local talent through podcasts and events can provide exposure and support for up-and-coming musicians.
• Building personal connections and cross-promoting with other podcasters and musicians can help create a supportive community and expand reach.

Episode Info:

YouTube: Chord Progression Podcast (Rock & Metal Music)

FB: Chord Progression Facebook Home Page

IG: Chord Progression Podcast (@chordprogressionpodcast)

X: Chord Progression Podcast (@cppodofficial)

Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna

Featured track: "Someone like me" by These Fading Visions

ATXMP Website: ATX Metal Podcast (transistor.fm)

Sponsors / Affiliates 

Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/

Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/

Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/

Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

The Breakdown

In this interview, I speak with Colin and Ashleigh of Tulip, a symphonic groove metal band from Dallas. We discuss the band's unique sound and influences, as well as their journey forming the band. The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing music and relationships, finding time for music amidst family duties, and the music scene in the Dallas area. We also talk about the upcoming tour in Europe and collaborations with local bands. Finally, we discuss the language barriers they may encounter during their trip overseas.

Quick Riffs

• Tulip is a symphonic groove metal band with a unique sound that combines elements of opera and European style metal.
• Balancing music and relationships can be challenging, but Colin and Ashleigh have found a way to make it work as a power couple.
• The band is excited about their upcoming tour in Europe and their collaborations with local bands.

Band/Episode Info:

Website: WE ARE TULIP | High Strangeness 

FB: Facebook /wearetulipofficial

IG: TULIP (@wearetulip) • Instagram photos and videos

TikTok: TULIP (@wearetulip) | TikTok

Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna

Featured track: "Ghost of Kiev" by Tulip

ATXMP Website: ATX Metal Podcast (transistor.fm)

Sponsors / Affiliates 

Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/

Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/

Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/

Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

The Breakdown

In this conversation, Dalton Kennerly from the band LEVELS discusses various aspects of the band's journey and music career. He talks about treating the band as a business, the band's influences and musical style, their collaboration with Landon Tewers (The Plot in You), and the sound shift in their new singles. Dalton also shares insights into signing with SharpTone Records, negotiating the record deal, and the importance of having a product. He discusses the band's touring strategy, the role of data in tour planning, and the importance of giving your best performance. Dalton also touches on personal well-being, finding connections between different areas of life, and future plans for the band.

Quick Riffs

• Treating the band as a business is crucial for success.
• Collaborating with other artists can lead to new and exciting musical directions.
• Data analysis is essential for effective tour planning.
• Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is important for a successful music career.

Episode Info

Bandcamp: https://levelsar.bandcamp.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/levels.metal/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/levels.band/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@levelsband

Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna

Featured track:  "Pulse" by Levels

ATXMP Website: https://www.atxmp.com/

Sponsors / Affiliates 

Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/

Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/

Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/

Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

Profiler is a Nu-Metal reawakening from the mind of vocalist and guitarist Mike Evans. This band is inspired by those who have incited change in genres, arts, and theories. It's a weight of legacy that Profiler is comfortable shouldering, backed by SharpTone Records, its home since 2020. After starting as a solo project in Bristol, UK, Mike stepped out from the studio and onto the stage, enlisting bassist/vocalist Joe Johnson and drummer Oscar Hocking. In early 2023, Oscar departed to be replaced by Brad Ratcliffe, cementing the line-up that would forge 2024's debut album, A Digital Nowhere.

Profiler's nu-metal-grunge-alt-rock, call it what you want, is an abrasive distorted soundscape that reverently glances back to those genres' heydays. Profiler is for anyone who misses or missed the contagious nineties Seattle grunge movement or the explosion of nu-metal that dominated the 00s and the genre-bending bands they made a path for.

Episode Info:

Website: https://sharptonerecords.co/collections/profiler

FB: https://www.facebook.com/profilerband

IG: https://www.instagram.com/profilerband/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRkvOHvNcLNjI4khMuje7NQ

Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna

Featured track: "All in Forever" by Profiler

ATXMP Website: https://www.atxmp.com/

Sponsors:

Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/

Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/

Bumperactive: https://www.bumperactive.com/

Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/

Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

ESP was founded in 2015 by Timothy Moss. The band’s concept and music was inspired by Timothy’s  travels in the Middle East and events in the US.  The band’s first release, “Call To Arms” was produced by Wyn Davis at Total Access Recording Studios in Redondo Beach, CA . The release on Starwest Entertainment Records was well received and garnered industry interest. 

After the pandemic it was decided to reconfigure the band with top industry talent for the next release.  With help from Wyn Davis and Steve Ornest, Tim “Ripper” Owens (vocals formerly with Judas Priest), Vinny Appice (drums formerly with  Axis, Dio, and Black Sabbath) and Jo Jo Brown (guitars)  joined Timothy in California to record “Digital Soldiers”.  The songs written by Timothy Moss and Jo Jo Brown were greatly enhanced  with the addition of Ripper and Vinny.  Their professionalism helped take the band to the new level the group was seeking.

After the release of  “Digital Soldiers”  a new touring line up was needed.  Sean Salinas, a multi-product endorsed artist (Promark Drumsticks, Evans Drumheads, and Diril Cymbals) and former drummer for two productions with Cirque du Soleil (KA and Zumanity) joined the group.  The combination of Sean’s incredible drumming  with Timothy’s bass playing provided the solid foundation.  Jo Jo Brown’s unique signature playing and writing style was a catalyst and perfect fit for the band.  Kris Keyes, formerly with Gargantua Soul and Dive Bomber, joined as lead singer.  Kris has appeared with his band on the Rage Against the Machine tour and performed at Woodstock 1999 .   At different times these artists have appeared on shows with Korn, Megadeath, and Stone Temple Pilots, to name a few.

Episode Info:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/EngineeredSocietyRocks/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/engineered_society_project

Website: https://engineeredsocietyproject.com/

Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna

Featured track: "Fade Away" by Engineered Society Project

ATXMP Website: https://www.atxmp.com/

Sponsors:

Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/

Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/

Bumperactive: https://www.bumperactive.com/

Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/

Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

I love when "new to me" bands reach out asking to check out their music out.  It's one of the cool aspects of running a metal podcast.  Vox Nostra dropped me a DM on Instagram about a month prior from the date of this release asking to check out their debut single "Façade".  Upon the pressing of the play button, the riff begins and I got drawn into blast beats and melodic tapping followed by some pretty brutal vocal arrangements.  After hearing the entire track, I hit them back asking them to save the Sunday because I had a cancellation.  Fortunately they were getting together for practice so it really worked out for everyone so Nathan Buckhoff (vocals) and Jay Ramirez (bass/band dad) joined me for an interview.

Vox Nostra is a brand new band, not to just me but, to everyone.  Formed back in May 2022, this 4-piece techdeath/melodic outfit of Houston, TX, Vox Nostra is trying to make their way in the local metal scene.  We started off by getting to know the members, what they do.  Nathan explains how he started is music career with a leap pad learning classical music to using his GI Bill to go to school for music.   Shout out to the Veteran's out there in and out of the music scene.  Semper Fi!

We chat about their plans as a band for the for foreseeable future, to include their debut show alongside Upon A Burning Body which is going down Dec 17th, 2023 at Scout Bar in Houston, TX.  To know more about them as humans, Nathan is a commercial real estate agent and Jay is the musical director at The School of Rock in Houston, TX.  Jay lets us in on his teachings and instructing kids to adults and how to be successful in that space.

Jay's final comments don't age well about the Astro's.

Message from the band : “Vox Nostra is on mission to push our boundaries as musicians. We aspire to deliver the catchiest riffs, most punishing drum beats, thunderous bass, and otherworldly vocals that we can produce. Come along on this journey with us cause it’s only gonna get better from here.”

Episode Info:

Bandcamp: https://voxnostra.bandcamp.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/voxnostraofficial

IG: https://www.instagram.com/voxnostratx/

Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna

Featured track: "Facade" by Vox Nostra

ATXMP Website: https://www.atxmp.com/

Sponsors:

Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/

Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/

Bumperactive: https://www.bumperactive.com/

Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/

Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

Release The Captive have been around the Austin, TX metal scene for a few years now.  I spoke with the band previously back in Dec of 2021 (link below if you want to give that a listen first).  Now that the band has a new drummer and a new single, "Defiance", we got together and caught up with the guys to see what's been going on in the RTC camp.

We get into how their new single "Defiance" came to life, what RTC is doing to stay on top of today's socials to reach their fans, how to be more engaging and how to build their brand to set them apart.  And, with the new addition of Danny to the team, he tells his story about how he made it from Mexico to Berkley and all over the United States and finally here to Austin, TX.  We round out the interview talking about the concept of their upcoming album, what shows they are playing the rest of the year and what's up with Taylor Swift.

Episode Info:

Spotify episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4pNJZdiT7xaZkzDTFLrfFL?si=-d_J8VyHQbO_O_Uzce03wQ
Bandcamp: https://releasethecaptive.bandcamp.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/releasethecaptiveband

IG: https://www.instagram.com/releasethecaptiveband/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoW8GJ7JY8J-NviE9K0vnaQ

Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna

Featured track: "Defiance" by Release The Captive

ATXMP Website: https://www.atxmp.com/

Sponsors:

Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/

Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/

Bumperactive: https://www.bumperactive.com/

Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/

Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

The Fieldhouse at The Crossover: https://www.thefieldhousetexas.com/

I get a fair amount of emails asking for reviews and promotion and I came across one email for a band based out of Germany.  It isn't everyday that I get emails from across the pond so I had to check it out and I am glad I did.  Thanks to Hannes, he connected me with Christopher Danner, the vocalists/guitarist of Torrential Rain, a metalcore outfit from Nuremburg, Germany. 

Germanys progressive metalcore highflyers Torrential Rain catch you where everyday life lets you down. Romance, Break-ups or reflecting on one‘s own life are just a few of the themes to let their fanbase located in over 99 countries know: You are not alone!

Coupled with the guiding principle of "power meets precision“ they fuse the unfusible: the brutal energy of bands like August Burns Red and Polaris combined with progressive-virtuoso writing á la Periphery. The four guys hailing from Germany create a perfect balance of both worlds in which brute force and delicate thoughtfulness coexist and present these American novelty trends to Europe’s stages.

We talk about the bands origins, their latest single releases and upcoming album "Digital Dreams", AI and much more.

Check out their latest singles and subscribe to their socials to stay up to date with future releases.

Episode Info:

Website: https://www.torrentialrain.de/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/TorrentialRainBand

IG: https://www.instagram.com/torrential_rain_band/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@torrentialrainband

Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna

Featured track: "Count on You" by Torrential Rain

ATXMP Website: https://www.atxmp.com/

Sponsors:

Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/

Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/

Bumperactive: https://www.bumperactive.com/

Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/

Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

The Fieldhouse at The Crossover: https://www.thefieldhousetexas.com/