Interviews: Helpless Agony

On this new occasion, we had the opportunity to interview the Death Metal/Doom Metal/Black Metal project Helpless Agony from the USA. Check out the interview and follow the project on his FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. Where did you get the idea for the band name? Was it planned, or did it just happen organically?

I was in the studio recording the first EP [The Suffering of Man], and I needed a band name to release the songs. Helpless Agony was the first phrase I thought of that reflected the theme of the lyrics I was writing at the time. 

2. Why did you choose to play this genre?

I did not make it my intention to play the genre I play. I just played what was natural for me. My writing comes from just picking up a guitar and playing something random. I happen to subconsciously play death metal riffs. 

3. Did you know each other before forming the band?

The band started as my [Ron Agony] solo project. I have had great musicians I knew from other bands help out with live shows. Some collaborated on a few songs as well, but the core of the band is still only me since I compose the majority of the music on my own time.

4. What is each band member's favorite band?

That's a tough question because I enjoy many different bands and styles of music. 

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

A lot of my own frustrations in life inspire me to pick up a guitar or write lyrics. 

6. Where was your last gig?

The last gig was a local show in my hometown of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The band has played in 4 different states in almost every month of 2024. 

7. Where would you like to perform in the future?

I would love to tour the US and eventually Europe. 

8. Which artist or band would you like to collaborate with?

I am open to collaborating with any artist that I like the music of if they are easy to get along with. 

9. Is there anyone you wouldn’t want to collaborate with?

I am open to collaborating with any artist that I like the music of if they are easy to get along with. 

10. Have any of you ever experienced stage fright? Do you have any tips for beginners on overcoming it?

I get a little nervous before playing a show, but I'm fine after the first song. The best way I can overcome it before going up is to remind myself that the band has practiced, and we will do our best. 

11. Which bands have influenced you the most?

Incantation influenced me to pick up a guitar. Cannibal Corpse was the 1st death metal band I heard, and I decided immediately after that I wanted to learn how to do death metal vocals. I used to sing along to Six Feet Under and Deicide records back in high school. 

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

I have never been asked for anything that I thought was weird. It's only been autographs, pictures, or signed stickers so far. 

13. What do you think of your fans?

I appreciate anyone who takes the time to listen to the music or see a live show from the band. I've noticed a lot of people who don't want to even give a new band a chance, so I am extremely grateful for anyone who gives Helpless Agony a listen. 

14. What do you think of our site?

I think Breathing the Core is a wonderful site to find new metal bands. 

15. Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Be on the lookout for announcements regarding a new lineup soon. There will also be another album in 2025, but it won't be a traditional studio album. There may be some more gigs as well.