Interviews: Nagazi

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Hard Rock/Thrash Metal band, Nagazi, from the USA. Check out the interview and follow the band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. Where did you get the idea for the band name, you planned it or came out just like that? 

Matthew: “The name Nagazi was suggested to me by a friend of mine. But it would be a couple of years before I would find a project fitting of the name. Nagazi is a nickname of the Georgian Shepherd dog. And is described as a “rugged and resilient worker”. The name was a perfect fit for a band I felt would put in the relentless work necessary to make it in this industry”.   

2.Why did you want to play this genre? 

Joe: “The energy. I love the energy of rock and metal. You can literally hear and feel the passion in each and every note, beat and lyric”. 

3. Did you know each other before the band was formed? 

Brothers’ Joe and Jeff Hafer met Matthew J Ruffino in the early 2000’s. The brothers’ band Knickelshot would often cross paths with Ruffino’s Cosmic Bandito’s. in early 2012 Ruffino (guitar) and Doug McGuire (bass) would begin construction on new musical project that would ultimately become Nagazi. Later adding Jeff (drums), who would then recruit Joe (vocals) to round out their lineup.

4. Each band member favourite band?

Joe – Every Time I Die, Lamb of God

Jeff – Slipknot, Pantera, Toto

Matthew – Bob Marley

Doug – Megadeth, Metallica

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs? 

Joe: ”I write about life experiences, Things that have happened to me, as well as things I’ve witnessed. Good experiences, bad or even tragic experiences can all inspire you. And often times, putting all these experiences into words can help you better understand what it is you’re really seeing.” 

6. Where was your last gig? 

Joe: December 7, 2019. Yuletide Slaughter at The Park Theatre in Holland, MI. “Man, that seems like forever ago!” 

7. Where would you like to act?

Joe: “I would love to act in an action movie with one of our songs playing in the scene. Maybe running from a monster, or getting eaten by a shark or something. Something with very few lines. Because I’m sure I’m a terrible actor”. 

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

Joe: “Every Time I Die. Final answer.” 

9. Whom not? 

Joe: “I’m not gonna go there”. 

10. Any of you has ever suffered from stage fright? Any tip for beginners on how to beat that? 

Joe: “When I first started out playing shows I was 17. And obviously being that young and being terrified of screwing up, yes there was a little stage fright. But that only lasted about 2 or 3 shows. After that, it has been nothing but pure adrenaline each and every time. I live for that rush. The hum of the crown. The lights and smoke on the stage. The adrenaline coursing through you. When that feeling is no longer there, I’ll know it’s time to move on”. 

11. What bands have inspired you the most? 

Jeff: “There’s too many to name them all. But Slipknot, Tool, Genesis, Motley Crue, Little Feet, Pearl Jam, Mastadon to name a few. One of the many great things about music, is its endless variety. You can find inspiration in all genres”. 

12. What's the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you for? 

Jeff: “ Someone once wanted my stage worn, sweaty indies. But who am I to judge, right?” 

13. What do you think of your fans?

Joe: “Our fans mean the world to us. Without them we are nothing. And all the love and support they’ve shown us over the years, is truly a humbling thing. That someone else is willing to do almost anything to help you achieve your dream, is sometimes hard to fathom. We are forever grateful for everything they’ve done for us. And we love them all!” 

14. What do you think of our site?

“Breathing The Core is an amazing site. From video premiers, in-depth interviews, or backstories about songs, albums, or artwork, this BTC has it all.” 

15. Something add?

Matthew: “Just please go check out our video for Triumphant. And we’ll see you all again in the hopefully not too distant future.”