ADDICTED TO PAIN
Questions asked by Jon Wilde, added to Rock Realms 20th August 2010.
New York metal act Addicted To Pain have unleashed their first-ever release - a self-titled four-song EP. Seeing as these guys really do kick ass, we thought we'd better find out more...
Guitarist/vocalist Leo Curley answers questions.
Can you give us a brief history of Addicted To Pain - who you are, how you formed etc...?
Leo: We've been together almost three years now. I've been doing the trio thing with Bob (bass) for a long time with I think three other drummers. None of them were right until we found Greg. We got together with some friends to jam a five piece band that never evolved, but Greg, Bob and I did.
Did you start with the intention of being a trio, or did it just work so well with the three of you there was no need for anyone else?
Leo: The trio came out of frustration with singers who can't sing. Bob and I have been writing trio style for about eight years or so. It comes so naturally , everyone has creative freedom. It keeps things fun, not much bitching.
Did you know what sort of music the band was going to play right from the start, or did the sound develop organically when you all jammed together?
Leo: Things developed pretty organically. We knew we were going to be heavy. But we pretty much write "songs" verse chorus bridge and whatever else feels right.
How would you describe the sound of the band to someone who hadn't heard you before?
Leo: Heavy "songs" written from the heart. Offering up a wall of sound delivered by a three piece tank.
Would you list any particular bands as definite influences, or do you take your cues more from overall genres?
Leo: These days cues come more from life than other music. My musical upbringing of metal and New York hardcore is embedded in my soul and comes out in the music.
How has the scene in Albany influenced and affected the way you approach your music? Has it helped or hindered your progress?
Leo: I was raised in the Albany scene. Being a couple hours from the city we would get all the hardcore shows up here. As well as the arena metal shows. This is what molded me musically. As far as helping or hurting. It definitely helped being so close to New York. But it probably hurt not to be in NYC.
When did you start work on the new EP, and how quickly/easily did it all come together?
Leo: We started pre-production / tracking in March.The finished product was ready probably early May. It came together fairly easily. But was a very intense process.
How did you get producer Alex Perialas onboard, and how much of a difference do you think he made to the finished EP?
Leo: It all started with megaforce records and Missi Callazzo.She heard an earlier recording and was very interested in working with us. However she wanted to put out the best product possible. You got one chance to make a first impression. Alex definitely made a huge difference in that respect. He took what we had and made us all we could be.
How does the writing process in Addicted To Pain work? How would a typical song be created?
Leo: One of three ways. Either a guitar or bass riff, or a drum beat. Someone brings it to the table and we grow it from there. A vocal line will usually pop into my head while jamming. Greg (drummer) has written some lyrics as well. I'm open to anything as long as it feels right. Once in a while I'll bring an idea for a whole song, but that's always open to change.
Do you do anything special in the studio to get your sound, or do you like to keep it as simple as possible?
Leo: The studio is kind of like an s.a.t. test. At that point either you got it or you don't. Make sure your gear is up to snuff and play your ass off.
What's your favourite track on the EP, and is it the sound of the song or the memories behind it that make you love it?
Leo: My favourite is TRUST ME. It really captured the moment of the studio experience. The song was only parts when we went in. No real vocals or arrangement. Working together with Alex really turned this song into what it is. We really discovered a working relationship on this track.
How was the writing and recording of the EP...pleasure, pain, or both?
Leo: I describe it as the most intense, exhausting, rewarding recording I've ever done. Working in the same studio where all that metal history happened was a bit surreal. The most pleasurable 15 hour days I've ever worked.
Do you enjoy the whole studio/creative experience, or do you prefer getting up on the live stage?
Leo: I enjoy creating for sure. But for me the reward is the live show. Spilling your guts all over the stage is what makes me live for it.
What is one of your live shows like? What should fans expect from one of your performances?
Leo: Intensity and emotion backed by a wall of pummeling sound beating it all into your soul.
Can you tell us about your US tour later this year?
Leo: Not just yet. Waiting on details and agents. But watch http://www.addictedtopain.net/ for more info. will be coming soon. What is being talked about is pretty big but I can't spill any beans before they're confirmed.
When do you see Addicted To Pain hitting the studio to record a full length album?
Leo: Shooting to record this winter with a Spring/Summer release.
Any question you love being asked that I've missed? If so, what's the answer?
Leo: Yes, I used to play lead guitar for Biohazard.
What are you up to once you've finished answering these questions?
Leo: Going to my over night shift at the chemical factory of course. IUE-CWA local 301 my union brothers!
Anything else you would like to mention?
Leo: Watch http://www.addictedtopain.net/ for all upcoming tour dates and info. THANX
Thanks for your time!!
Thanks again to Leo for his time. Don't forget to keep an eye on the band's website for news of that tour!
http://www.facebook.com/addictedtopain
