Interviews About Albums: Balistic - The Parson’s Tale (2026)

In this new interview, we sat down with the American Progressive Metal/Symphonic Metal band Balistic to ask questions about their album "The Parson's Tale". 

1. The Parson’s Tale is a concept album built around sin, virtue, and Lucifer. What sparked the idea to create this story in the first place?

The whole album started as a conversation between me and Mark, our singer. He was always interested in the concept of the Seven Deadly Sins. We had written a song years ago called “One of Seven”, about lust. He prompted me to start writing again after a 15 yr hiatus. I started by reading a ton of material from 3rd-century theologians, different sources like Orthodox and Early Church opinions. Plus, I read a book called “Godonomics” by Chad Hovind.

I sat and imagined the whole thing at first. I wrote out an outline of the different sins and virtues. Then I wrote examples of sin and virtue, like three or four things. Again, Godonomics helped a lot.

2. The lyrics were written before the music for this project. How did that approach change the way the songs came together compared to traditional songwriting?

It was incredibly difficult. I had to let the rhythm of the lyric guide me. I had ideas about each song, how it would sound. I studied under Rick Beato's books. That gave me modal knowledge that helped immensely with the feelings I wanted for the music. When I write music, I think what does anger sound like? How about despair? That’s how the tempo and key changes evolved as I had to totally shift gears in the songs for the different characters.

3. For readers just discovering Balistic, how would you describe The Parson’s Tale in your own words?

I would describe our album as a mirror into how humans act. The whole concept of Seven Sins and Virtues was developed in the 3rd century, more or less. They tried to get people to recognize these traits in themselves. This album will help you see that in yourself. It’s not for everybody.

It’s incredibly complex.

4. Each track represents a different character or theme. Do you have a personal favorite moment in the story or on the album?

Drowning in it is the most amusing one. I laugh every time I hear or play it! My Poison is the most realistic story. Every woman I know has a story about a guy who hurt them OR gave them the creeps. It’s real.

5. Balistic originally formed in the early ’90s and reunited years later. What brought the band back together, and what made this the right time to create something this ambitious?

Balistic got back together for a one-off show when my oldest son came back from Afghanistan. Mark then talked me into playing bass for a cover band he was doing. We got to talking about writing new stuff. What really made it the right time was that I tore a bicep at work. I suddenly had plenty of time for writing, and I made the most of it!

6. The album blends progressive metal with elements of funk, jazz, and even hip hop. How did those influences find their way into the music?

You wouldn’t believe my Spotify playlist, haha. I’m a bit older than the rest of the band. I was exposed to whole other musical worlds. Being a bass player, I loved those lines from Earth, Wind, and Fire, Police, Steely Dan, Boz Scaggs, etc. Then, came Columbia Music and I stocked up on Kiss and Kansas, Boston, Yes, ELP, etc. I’m a fan of great SONGS. I’d get an album for one tune.

7. Fans of bands like Ayreon, Savatage, and Queensrÿche will likely feel right at home here. Which artists had the biggest influence on this album?

Savatage. I love their orchestration. Vocally and musically, the album feels very theatrical at times. Were there any influences from Broadway, rock operas, or concept albums that shaped the vision? Absolutely. Pink Floyd The Wall. 2112. My guitarist Brian, was the one who grasped the idea of this being like a Broadway show. When I was writing and doing demos I was headed for a story arc. Brian and I were constantly saying to Mark about “getting into the character” when singing.

8. The band has talked about bringing this album to the stage with visuals and narration. What can fans expect from a live performance of The Parson’s Tale?

I’ve made AI videos to go along with us playing. We switched to an in-ear monitor system so we can use all the spoken word parts and sound effects live. Hopefully it will work, haha.

9. After completing such a massive project, what was the most challenging part of bringing the album to life?

The hardest part is and was all the sound effects, keyboard parts, and the timing. With the tempo and keychanges you have to be on top of it live. Even for me, since I wrote them. Our drummer, Don, has the worst of it. He’s a pro and constantly rehearses parts.

10. Was there a particular track that pushed the band the furthest creatively or technically?

I Am Cain is by far the hardest to play. I change key a few times during the song just for fun. There’s a tricky guitar solo that was done by guest Eric Wirsing of Solar Federation, a Rush tribute. It swings into some weird diminished chords, to Lydian modes, etc. Eric rules. He probably did two takes of that ripping solo haha.

11. What has the reaction from fans been like since the album dropped in December?

Our older fans were like wtf did you guys do haha. They were totally blown away by the storyline. An overwhelming comment was that people listened to it a bunch of times and discovered more each time. That was the best compliment.

12. If you could tour this album with any band, past or present, who would be the perfect match?

Wow, that’s a good question. Personally, I’d like to go out with Nightwish or Kamelot in the present. The past? Black Sabbath. Alice Cooper. Rush. Deep Purple

13. Looking ahead, where does Balistic go next after a project this big?

I actually have something percolating that possibly could be more epic. I’m working on demos now. I keep learning more about composing and production. We learned so much about doing music in the 21st century. Hopefully, I’ll get this out sooner rather than later.

14. Finally, is there anything you’d like to say to fans who are about to experience The Parson’s Tale for the first time?

I’d say: Join us for this journey into humanity. No matter how bad you think it is, you can turn around. The Parson’s Tale is a lie back with your earbuds for a while kind of album. Let the music envelop your mind. Read the lyrics. Imagine the characters. Then do it again. It’s how we used to listen to music. Thank you for listening!

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