Interviews: Innerload

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Heavy Metal band Innerload from Italy. Check out this band and follow them on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

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

The name Innerload reflects our desire to delve into the depths of the human soul and express inner turmoil and emotions through our music. It wasn't a planned decision, rather it emerged as we brainstormed ideas. The inner load is something we have inside, maybe even obscure, and it is up to us to recognize it, face it, accept it, and transform it into something else (our music for example!).

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

We were drawn to the heavy metal genre because we grew up listening to this music, and that was the natural expression we could find. We were (and still are) fans of Metallica and Megadeth, … so our first albums addressed the golden era of Heavy Metal and we have been associated with NWOBHM. But the pandemic gave us the time to reflect and decide if remain stuck in the past or look to more modern and appreciated subgenres like Thrash and Death Metal… honestly, it was a big challenge: put all apart, start learning new techniques and approaches (especially for Cortez’s voice) and we are more than happy of what we reached. It also somehow came naturally, since Tony was more on this dark side of metal and led us here, composing great songs.

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

Yes, some of us knew each other before forming the band, while others were brought together through our shared passion for music and heavy metal. Over time we changed the lineup, but I also think that this one is the most mature and professional, and let us work hard and create this album “Mater Tenebrarum” with a brand new sound.

4. Each band member's favorite band? 

Cortez: Archenemy 

Tony: Death 

Alex: Soilwork 

Lox: Lamb of God

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

We have always been inspired by the world we live in, and the feelings we have (that is our inner load). We have never been anchored to “standard” content. This album is even a step forward since it is a "concept album" as it explores themes related to mental disorders, psychotic states, and the anguish of the soul, pushing to and beyond the extremes. From schizophrenia to madness, from the abyss of drug abuse that corrodes the soul to the temptations of suicide, each track on the album tells a story of torment and despair.

However, even amidst this unfathomable darkness, there always shines a "seed of hope and humanity." Far from adhering to the stereotype of pure "death and destruction," we strive to show the complexity of the human experience, even when it is painful and difficult to face. It has been noted that we do not focus 100% on the typical themes of the death metal genre. This is something we are proud of, as it reflects our desire to explore and communicate the inner chaos that resides within us. Our music is a mirror of our inner conflicts, our fears, and our deepest anxieties, including those that society often prefers to ignore. It is a journey into the "Innerload" - the inner burden - in its various declinations and forms, including the monsters that "official" culture tends to deny or hide.

6. Where was your last gig?

Our last gig was at Krach Club in Treviso (Italy) in “Under Metal Flag Festival”, where we had the opportunity to connect with our fans and showcase our latest music in a “ghost gig” since the album was “freezed” by the label in order to be officially published in early 2024. But it was an incredible night with our fans, who let us understand immediately that our music change and new songs were definitely appreciated.

7. Where would you like to act?

As we mature and since we think we have a good product, we aspire to perform on stages with other bands in larger festivals, where we can share our music with wider audiences, because at the end of the day, we do this to share our inner-load with our fans. Let me say in other words that we are trying to target fewer venues but with greater quality. But we will be playing even in small clubs.

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

Collaborating with other artists who share our passion for music and creativity would be an incredible experience, and we think we always have to learn something. Obviously, I could tell you bands like Lamb of God, and Arch Enemy,… but I think we have incredibly great Italian bands, and sincerely it would be a great experience to feature with Necrodeath, Fleshgod Apocalypse, Death SS, Extrema…

9. Whom not?

As artists, we remain open to collaboration and artistic exploration. We believe that every collaboration offers a unique opportunity for growth and creativity.

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

Stage fright is a common experience for performers, but we've found that preparation, practice, and focus on the music can help alleviate nerves. It's also important to remember that the audience is there to support and enjoy the performance, so embracing the moment and channeling that energy into your performance can be empowering. When I was younger, I thought that shouting louder would “cover” the fright… but it may lead to mistakes and underperforming. Now we are more mature, and once again: preparation, even for small details, is the best way to feel free on stage.

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

We draw inspiration from a diverse range of bands and artists across various genres; in our first “era” may be Metallica, Megadeth, Pantera, Disturbed, Iron Maiden, Queensryche… I could mention dozens of them. When we started this new project for “Mater Tenebrarum” I think we got good inspiration from bands like Arch Enemy, Behemoth, Death, Lamb of God, Dark Tranquility, and The Halo effect,… Each of these artists has contributed to shaping our musical identity and influences our creative process.

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

We've had some interesting encounters with fans over the years, but one of the most memorable and funny happened many years ago. We were performing in a pub (we initially started as a cover band), and after something like 15 songs… we were tired, excited, sweaty… pushing as much as possible… then I was asking the people “which song do you want us to perform now?”… and a friend said “ok, now please just play a good one!” (as if all the previous was bad)… all the audience was laughing. I think we kept this feeling with our fans over the year, regardless of whether it is a pub or a big stage… we try to keep a connection with our fans, so we can smile, cry, or scream together in each concert.

13. What do you think of your fans?

Our fans are the lifeblood of Innerload, and we're incredibly grateful for their support and enthusiasm. Their passion drives us to create music that resonates with them and brings us closer together as a community. I always tell them (quoting Disturbed) “we exist because of you!”.

14. What do you think of our site?

We appreciate the platform your site provides for artists like us to share our music and connect with fans. It's important to have webzines that support and promote independent musicians, and we're grateful for the opportunity to be featured on your site.

15. Something to add?

We'd like to thank our fans for their unwavering support and encourage them to stay tuned for exciting updates and new music from Innerload. Keep rocking, and we'll see you at the next show!