Interviews: Fear Equation

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Heavy Metal/Progressive Metal band Fear Equation from the USA. Check out the interview and follow the band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. For readers discovering Fear Equation for the first time, how would you describe the band and what makes your sound unique?

Fear Equation is the combination of traditional metal, thrash, progressive metal, melancholic rock, and doom. The combination spans the entire history of metal and covers many genres. I wanted to combine these genres that I love into one band.

2. What inspired the title Victims of the Future, and what themes tie the album together?

The title was inspired by the Gary Moore album of the same name. I thought it was a great title and had some modern-day relevance.

3. How has Fear Equation evolved since Brandon DeLanzo started the project in 2019?

The band started just as a project that would have various guests until a full lineup was formed. Tiago Masseti and Thiago Caurio(formerly of Daydream XI and currently of Masaeti) performed the vocals and drums on our first two singles, Never Satisfied and Follow The Blind. I was also working with keyboardist Eric Foote until 2021.

After a hiatus of 2 years, I started playing music with a few of my friends in the metal/punk band Rise From Your Grave, and it inspired me to start writing Fear Equation material again. The guys in Rise came along with me as my band for Fear Equation, and that’s where we currently stand. I was originally intending not to be the main vocalist, but was encouraged by friends to do so. Tom Gaffron occasionally performs on songs where I just want to focus on guitar.

4. Musically, the album blends traditional heavy metal, thrash, progressive metal, and melancholic rock. How did you develop that balance?

I developed the balance just by trying to write songs in those styles, but making them cohesive enough that they sounded like they belonged on the same album. Dream Theater was a big influence on that. Every album and song transcends genre, and I really loved how so many different song styles could be on one album. Six Degrees of Inner Turbulence is a great example.

5. Which songs on the album were the most challenging or rewarding to write and record?

I would say all of the songs were equally rewarding and challenging to write. I would say Sands of Time is the most interesting to me, though, because it sounds like someone else wrote it to me. I’m not sure how I got that one out of me.

6. Were there any specific experiences or emotions that influenced the songwriting on this record?

Life experiences mostly. Relationships, breakups, moments of sadness, and deep contemplation.

7. You cite Evergrey, Iron Maiden, Metallica, and Opeth as influences. In what ways did those bands shape this album?

All of those bands have influenced me for years. I love the musicianship, lyrical content, aggression, melancholy, and everything in between. If a band moves me at all, it’s inspiring for my playing and lyric writing. I do think some of the musical motifs speak for themselves when hearing the album

8. Adam Kephart handled the production, mixing, and mastering at Second Guest Studios. What was that collaboration like?

Very smooth. Adam is my brother-in-law, and we have been working together for years. He’s a great guy, and he’s learning everything along the way as I am. I wouldn’t be able to do this without his help.

9. As an independent artist, what have been the biggest challenges and rewards of creating and releasing this album?

Just time management mostly. I’m a busy guy, and finding the time to do things is tough. The rewards are just me getting my art out there.

10. If listeners could take away one message after hearing Victims of the Future, what would you hope it is?

Everyone sees things differently, so if they take anything away from it, I just hope it’s something they enjoy, can relate to, and be inspired by.

11. Do you have a favorite track on the album? If so, what makes it stand out to you?

Sands of Time or Ice Blue Eyes. The melancholy mood has really hit me lately. The songs seem very different from my original roots, so to me, it shows growth.

12. What are your plans following the release? Can fans expect live performances, videos, or more new music?

Current plans are just to work on more music. I am planning on recording a cover song in the near future, and I have songs set aside for a new album. No live performances planned as of yet. I have been performing with Rise From Your Grave in the Pittsburgh and Ohio areas, so check us out! Come say hi!

13. Looking ahead, what is the ultimate goal for Fear Equation?

The ultimate goal of Fear Equation is to get my art to the world and to inspire people to do their own art.

14. What has the response been like from fans who have already heard the singles or previews from the album?

So far, everyone has been very positive about the album!

15. Is there anything else you'd like to share with the readers of Breathing The Core Zine?

Thanks for the interview!! I loved answering your questions.

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