Interviews: MEDEVIL

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Progressive Power Metal band, MEDEVIL from Canada. 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?

Yeah, that came about due to the fact that Demise (the original band title before my time) was used frequently by other groups and generally not super unique. Eric and Liam passed around a bunch of random names and got inspired by Megadeth to sort of take a term and modify it to be more likely that we wouldn’t infringe on a trademarked name. They chose medieval since our lyrics have a story to them, and with our metaphorical/fantasy lyrics it feels like it allows us to write about more concepts in different time periods

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

I enjoy playing and writing metal music since it’s the genre that got me into music since my early teens. It’s what inspired me to pick up a guitar in the first place, after hearing how varied and diverse the metal genre can be.

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

I didn’t know anybody in the band when I joined. I was off work due to an injury and responded to a Craigslist Ad looking for a guitar player. Brett responded to the same ad, and we both joined at the same time. I remember showing up to the audition thinking the band members looked so young, almost like they were kids haha.

4. Each band member's favorite band?

Mine has changed over the years, but my overall favorite band would have to be Opeth. Currently, I’m really digging Polyphia and Wilderun. Liam’s favorite band I believe is Metal Church. Eric’s favorites are Dream Theater and Gentle Giant, he’s a big progressive fan. Brett’s are Meshuggah and Haken. We all have our own separate tastes, but I think that’s what lends well to our collective songwriting process.

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

I find inspiration mostly through listening to and analyzing music. If I’m ever in a creative slump, usually listening to some classic Iron Maiden or Megadeth snaps me right out of it. Seeing live shows is another huge inspiration for me so I’m very glad bands are back touring after all of the Covid restrictions.

6. Where was your last gig?

Our last gig was in Maple Ridge, BC at ‘The Wolf Bar’. It was our first show in over three years so it was awesome to perform for everyone and see some familiar faces. We played a few tracks from our upcoming album for the first time live and the response was amazing. The drunk lady dancing up a storm in front of us the whole set made it extra special.

7. Where would you like to act?

Anywhere across Canada or the U.S. would be rad. We’ve been as far as Vancouver to Toronto in Canada in support of our first album ‘Conductor of Storms’. It’s always been a personal dream of mine to perform in Europe or South America as we seem to have fans there, but I have been to either continent yet. 

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

Pretty much any band with somewhat of a similar sound and direction as us. I will say though, opening for Sepultura and Hammerfall was unreal.

9. Whom not?

Nobody or a band in particular. If we were to tour with another band, as long as they’re not drama queens I’m sure we could get along with pretty much anyone.

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

I’m sure most people have at least a bit of stage fright, that’s totally normal. The first few shows I ever played I was pretty nervous, but it gets easier and easier. The best advice I can give is to be well rehearsed so you can feel confident you know what you’re doing onstage. I also find it helps to not take yourself too seriously and have fun. Lock on to the drunkest guy having way too good of a night and your mind will be put at ease.

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

The first band that really inspired me musically was Metallica. Having their guitar riffs and seeing them perform live made me think “I need to learn this shit.” My inspiration from bands has changed lot over the years, but my main influence comes heavily from Opeth, the ‘Still Life’-‘Blackwater Park’ era. Their ability to write complex song structures and piece them all together blew me away.

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

Probably the weirdest thing a fan has asked for was just straight-up cocaine, haha. He asked me “Good set bro, you got any blow?’

13. What do you think of your fans?

We love ‘em! We really enjoy hanging out and having a few drinks at our shows with people that appreciate our music. Metal isn’t the most popular genre, but I swear it has the best and most devoted fans.

14. What do you think of our site?

Your site fuckin’ rules! I appreciate you guys taking the time to interview us and allowing us to reach out to some new listeners.

15. Something to add?

Our new album ‘Mirror in the Darkness’ is dedicated to the memory of our friend and bandmate, Chris Malcolmson, who passed away from cancer after recording his drum parts. We’re so grateful a little piece of who he was will live on forever through the music we created together. It’s out on April 7th, 2023 on all streaming platforms as well as physical copies. We know we created something truly special and unique so we’re looking forward to hearing everyone’s reactions. Rest in peace, brother.