Interview with MIND CONTROL
!!!PROG DEATH METAL FROM ITALY!!!
We had a conversation with Stefania Salladini (Vocals). Enjoy!
Welcome to the FILTHY DOGS OF METAL Webzine.
Tell us a few things about MIND CONTROL (Members, Starting Year etc).
Hello Filthy Dogs Of Metal! We are a progressive death metal band, hailing from Abruzzo, Italy, and we came together a decade ago. Following a hiatus, we've just unveiled our second album titled "Elements." Our music is deeply rooted in melodic death metal, infused with a progressive flair. The lineup comprises Stefania Salladini as the vocalist, Massimo Boffa handling guitars and keyboard programming, Stefano Tatasciore on bass, and Luca Nicolucci on drums. Our debut album, "Heptagon," saw the light of day nine years ago, but now we are back, and really hope to captivate listeners with our new release.
You have recently released your album ''Elements''. What is the feedback from your audience as well as from the press?
We've been overwhelmed by the incredibly positive feedback we've received since the release of 'Elements.' Both our audience and the press have responded in a way that truly exceeded our expectations. It's been gratifying to witness such a favorable reception, and it motivates us to continue pushing the boundaries of our music. We didn't anticipate such a warm and enthusiastic response, and we're sincerely grateful for the support and recognition from our listeners and the press alike.
Label or DIY and why?
We have had the opportunity to explore both the label and DIY routes, and after weighing the pros and cons of each, we've come to appreciate the autonomy and creative control that DIY offers. Through our experiences, we've realized that there's a unique connection and passion that comes with handling every aspect of our musical journey independently. No one can love and nurture our artistic creation more than we can, and the level of dedication and effort we invest in every aspect, from production to promotion, is something we find deeply fulfilling. DIY allows us to shape our own narrative and stay true to our artistic vision, which is an invaluable aspect of our journey as musicians
Is there any funny or weird story from the recordings or from your live shows that you would like to share with us?
Sure, there's a funny anecdote from our recording sessions, particularly during the creation of 'Maestrom.' In a spontaneous and lighthearted moment, we found ourselves enjoying a couple of beers, letting loose and embracing a playful atmosphere. Luca, our drummer, grabbed the microphone and, in a slightly tipsy state, exclaimed, 'Birra, patatine, and Fonzies' (Italian for beer, chips, and Fonzies, a popular snack). In a whimsical turn of events, Luca decided to play around with the phrase, recording it backward. Surprisingly, the reversed version added a peculiar and fitting element to the very end of the song. It sounded so bizarre yet strangely perfect that we decided to keep it as an integral part of the final version. It's a fun reminder of the camaraderie and spontaneity that can emerge in the studio, making the recording process not only a creative endeavor but also a memorable and entertaining experience for all of us.
Do you prefer Vinyl, Tape, CD or Digital Format and why is that?
We appreciate the unique qualities of each format, but if we had to choose a preference, it would be vinyl. There's something special about the tactile nature of vinyl records, the large album artwork, and the warmth of the analog sound. It offers a more immersive and nostalgic listening experience, creating a tangible connection between the music and the listener. However, we understand the convenience of digital formats and the charm of other physical formats like tapes and CDs, each catering to different preferences and contexts.
Your music style is Progressive Death Metal. Which are your main influences (Favourite Artists / Bands etc.)
We draw inspiration from a wide range of musical influences, spanning both contemporary and classic bands. Acts such as Periphery, Monuments, Tesseract, and Textures have played a crucial role in molding our appreciation for progressive and djent elements, influencing how we approach composition and sonic experimentation. In addition, the enduring impact of older bands like Nevermore, Soilwork, In Flames, Arch Enemy, and Testament has left an indelible mark on our music. The melodic finesse, technical prowess, and intense energy exhibited by these seasoned acts have collectively contributed to the multifaceted and dynamic nature of our sound.
Which things do you think a band should sacrifice in order to succeed? Have you ever sacrificed anything in your life for a better future for your band?
While pursuing our musical aspirations, we've navigated the challenges of time management and the demands of adult responsibilities. It's crucial to find harmony between our passion for music and our obligations to careers and families. Sacrifices may manifest in terms of late nights spent rehearsing or working on new material, but we prioritize a healthy equilibrium that allows us to pursue our musical goals without compromising our personal and professional lives.
Describe your ideal live show as a performance band. Have you already experienced that?
We envision a connection with the audience where they not only hear the music but also feel it resonate. The interaction between us and the crowd is a vital element, creating a symbiotic exchange of energy. A mix of headbanging moments, melodic interludes, and maybe even some unexpected surprises would make for an unforgettable performance. Picture a show where the energy is palpable, the crowd is fully engaged, and every element of our diverse musical influences seamlessly comes to life. Fortunately, we've had the privilege of tasting elements of this ideal in our past performances. The connection with our audience, the shared moments of musical intensity, and the overall fulfillment of bringing our compositions to the stage have been the building blocks of our live journey so far. Each performance is a step closer to realizing our vision for the perfect live show.
What attributes do you think that a new Death Metal Band should have in order to gain identity and be unique?
For a new death metal band to stand out, they need a unique sound achieved through experimentation, authenticity, and a strong visual identity. Consistency in delivering quality work and connecting with the audience are crucial for making a lasting impact in the genre.
Do you believe that Digital Platforms help the new Death Metal Bands? Which, do you think, is the ideal way for a band to promote its work?
Digital platforms play a pivotal role in supporting new death metal bands. Platforms like streaming services, social media, and online distribution enable bands to reach a global audience, breaking down geographical barriers. This accessibility is invaluable for exposure and building a fan base. However, live performances remain a powerful tool. While digital platforms provide reach, the visceral experience of a live show creates a deeper connection with the audience.
Tell us a few things about the New Underground Metal Scene in Italy (Bands, Fanzines, Webzines, Metal Clubs etc.)
Italy has a vibrant underground metal scene with numerous talented bands across various sub-genres, line Insane Therapy. Fanzines and webzines continue to be essential in promoting underground metal. Publications like "Metal Hammer Italy," and "Rock Hard Italy" provide coverage of both established and emerging bands. Webzines like Metalitalia.com, Metal.it and Truemetal.it contribute to the promotion of both underground and enstabilished bands. As to metal clubs and venues, while traditionally hosted both big and emerging bands, there has been a notable trend of an increasing focus on mainstream or big metal bands in certain venues.
Do you know anything about the Hellenic Metal Scene?
Greece has a strong association with bands like Rotting Christ and Septicflesh, who have gained recognition worldwide. Generally speaking, metal community in Greece is known for its passion and dedication. Fans actively support both emerging and established bands, contributing to the vibrancy of the scene, and that’s so good!
The last 4 years, worldwide in the world, we have faced many dark, strange & new situations in our everyday life (covid, lock-down etc.) Did all of this affect you positively or negatively?
These events brought challenges, uncertainties, and disruptions to daily life. But despite the difficulties, we discovered new opportunities for personal growth, tapped into our creativity, and embraced resilience during these tough times. Our experiences varied greatly, shaped by our unique circumstances and perspectives.
What are your future plans?
We're currently immersed in creating exciting new music, eagerly awaiting its time to shine. Meanwhile, we're gearing up for a series of live performances this upcoming summer, putting careful thought into every detail. These shows are not just a showcase for our latest tunes but also a chance to connect with our audience, bringing our music to life in the dynamic and energetic atmosphere of live performances.
Thank you very much for your time & keep up the good work! The closure is yours.
Thank you so much for having us! We truly appreciate the opportunity to share our passion for music with the Filthy Dogs of Metal community. Keep the metal spirit alive, and we can't wait to share more of our journey with you. Stay tuned, and stay metal!
By Steve the Filthy Dog.
MIND CONTROL CONTACT:
https://www.facebook.com/mindcontrol.it
https://www.instagram.com/mindcontrol_band/