Interviews: Crucial Velocity

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Hard Rock/Metal band Crucial Velocity from the USA. In this interview, we talk about their new single "Mortal Trilogy". Check it out!

1. How did the concept for “Mortal Fallacy” come about?

After the release of our last album, “Controller”, I went months without picking up a guitar. Once the inspiration hit me, I was off and running. The riffs started to flow. The most difficult part for me is coming up with subject matter. Once I have an idea, things come quickly.

2. What themes or stories inspired the lyrics for this single?

“Mortal Fallacy” was inspired by the current political and religious state of the US, which I find extremely intriguing and concerning at the same time. I like to analyze the human condition. Especially the darker themes. This song is about the search for a “new messiah,” only to realize the new one is worse. These lyrics can be interpreted many different ways, and I hope that it makes people think, regardless of their stance on issues.

3. How does this track set the tone for the trilogy of releases?

“Mortal Fallacy” is a great representation of everything that Crucial Velocity is. Classic metal with hooks and melody, but with a modern twist. The first CV album was a bit scattered and bloated. The “Controller” album was a bit more straight-ahead metal. These new songs are a mix. I brought back a bit more of the element of surprise with bridges and interludes that take the listener in a different direction.

4. Can you talk about the vocal and instrumental approach on this track?

I always write the music first. I usually start with a riff, in this case the opening riff and then build the song from there. It came quickly. I then do vocal melodies with nonsense words followed by coming up with lyrics. Our singer, Androo O’Hearn, is a force of nature. He takes my basic vocal ideas and turns them into these beautiful layered vocals. He does harmonies and melodies that are extremely complex and not typically heard in metal music. Androo is ultimately what gives Crucial Velocity our signature sound.

5. What was the creative process behind the artwork for “Mortal Fallacy”?

I am a big fan of photojournalist Bulent Kilic. We have used his photos in the past. “Mortal Fallacy” and “Maryr’s Blood” feature his photos. Because they are authentic, there is a depth and reality to them that fits the dark mood of the songs.

6. How does this new music build on what fans heard on Controller?

As I mentioned earlier, the new songs are a bit more interesting in that there are more off-the-beaten-path sections going on to keep it interesting. That said, we always keep melody front and center even on our heaviest parts. In addition, you will hear a massive improvement in production. Gary Long at Nomad Studios, Dallas, TX, has really stepped things up from a mixing and mastering standpoint.

7. Which parts of this track do you think will surprise listeners the most?

Vocally, I would advise any listener to focus on the unique vocal harmony lines scattered throughout. There is a nice, softer section that builds, and this features one of the best Michael Harris guitar solos on any CV song.

8. Were there any technical or musical elements that were particularly challenging to record?

The only limiting factor in any Crucial Velocity song is my technical ability. As long as I can play it, I know that the other guys have unlimited technical ability so they always take things to the next level. I record with a Kemper so my set up is always very consistent and quite easy.

9. How do the members’ individual influences show up in this song?

As I said previously, Androo O’Hearn clearly sets Crucial Velocity apart due to not just his unique vocal ability but also his arrangement of the vocal parts. Then throw in Matt Thompson, who is a drummer who can literally play anything. And of course, Michael Harris on lead guitar. He is a legend. He comes from more of a rock fusion background so his solos are always quirky and interesting. As for me, what I write is a product of the 80s and 90’s metal. Everything from Voivod to Opeth, early Metallica, Faith No More, Black Sabbath, Alice In Chains, etc. Those influences are quite obvious.

10. Matt Thompson just toured with King Diamond—how did having him on drums influence the sound and recording of “Mortal Fallacy”?

Matt has played on all Crucial Velocity recordings. Coming off the road like this, he was in top form. I give him free rein to do whatever he feels is best for each song. I sometimes have to encourage him to let loose more. For example, you will hear an insane drum fill on “Mortal Fallacy” leading into the second verse.

11. Where do you see Crucial Velocity going after this trilogy is complete?

We plan on continuing with releasing singles here and there vs doing a full album. No one is buying CD’s anymore. Unfortunately, it has become all about streaming and YouTube.

12. Any memorable fan reactions or feedback so far on the single?

The select people who have heard it are all in agreement that this is a step up from previous work, both sonically and with song writing. We are very excited to have these songs out in the wild!

13. Any tips for musicians tackling complex arrangements like those on “Mortal Fallacy”?

Modern technology makes it much easier. You can do a song in sections. Perfect each section. Then come back to it. You may hear something different. Keep massaging it until it is what you want. If you can hear something in your head, keep chipping away until you capture it.

14. Is there anything about this release that you’re especially proud of, or that you want fans to notice?

As a songwriter, I am extremely proud of these songs. It is a culmination of years of writing and learning the process. Also, I’ve worked with these guys long enough now that I write songs for them as well as for me. I know their strengths. The best compliment I can ever get is, “that is a great song”. For anyone who is familiar with us, I really hope they notice, yes, they sound better sonically, but they are simply better songs.

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