All Kinds of Metal
We had the opportunity to talk to Face Yourself and discover details about the career of this promising band, find out more about them:
1. What led to the formation of Face Yourself in 2023, and how has the band's journey been since its inception?
Eric and Thomas teamed up to write music together after Eric lost his mother and Thomas took a break from music after leaving his last band. They took auditions for members months to find the write vocalists then yasmine blew everyone away. the band has been writing music constantly since.
2.
Face Yourself is often described as pushing the boundaries in
deathcore. How do you approach creating music that combines intensity
with introspective lyrics?
The members of Face Yourself are already die hard fans of deathcore well before starting the band. The band takes inspirations for lyrics from envisioning what the music video will look like based off the sound of the songs as they are written. Being that Eric and Yasmine are visual artists in the film/video industry coming up with themes and visuals comes very natural to them.
3. In
what ways does Face Yourself draw inspiration from Myspace deathcore,
and how do you infuse a modern taste into this classic sound?
All the members have different tastes and influences within the genre which is how they can combine old school and modern deathcore.
4.
Your music videos are known for their intense visuals. How do you
conceptualize and bring to life the visuals that accompany your powerful
music?
Eric being the owner of square up studios has been working with bands in the genre for years which makes coming up with visuals for videos very natural
5. Face Yourself delves
into introspective and dark themes. Could you share some insights into
the overarching concepts that often inspire your lyrics?
First 2 eps were mostly inspirations from music video ideas, tales of death which is the new ep was written during the period of Halloween which inspired the dark and more intense themes.
6.
With 3 EPs and 9 music videos already released, how do you feel Face
Yourself has evolved as musicians and songwriters throughout your
growing discography?
The band has learned to work together as a group and have become friends through the journey which helped our bond and team work.
7. As you
explore the complexities of human emotions, societal issues, and
personal struggles in your songs, how do you hope your music resonates
with listeners?
The band first writes things that speak to them, as the most important is to write music that you enjoy before sharing it to the world. If you trust in your art then people can appreciate it too.
8. How does Face
Yourself maintain a balance between maintaining critical acclaim from
fans and critics while staying true to your artistic vision?
The band is still young and learning, face yourself being only a year old we are still getting our bearings but the fans of our music truly make it all worth it. We put a lot of work in this year pumping out 3 EPs and 9 music videos. Our fans through their support push us to work hard.
9.
Can you highlight a specific moment or accomplishment in your journey
that stands out as a defining mark for Face Yourself in the deathcore
realm?
Seing reaction channels reacting to our music is always pleasant, the band is happy to see the live reaction of fans who have genuinely been enjoying our work.
10. Looking ahead, what
can fans anticipate from Face Yourself in terms of future releases,
collaborations, or any innovative projects you might have in mind?
The band is working on rehearsing for live shows, teamed recently with tko booking in the hope to tour in the coming months/years. The band enjoys working with friends and people can still expect features with square up artists.
https://www.youtube.com/@faceyourselfofficial
https://www.instagram.com/fyourselfband
1. How did Obsidian Cult Records come into existence, and
what inspired you to start this independent A&R Label?
Obsidian Cult Records was established to provide artists with the tools and resources
they need to be successful. After experiencing the cutthroat nature of the music
industry with my previous band, I wanted to create an anti-label that supports
musicians without upfront costs or taking away their rights. Our mission is to empower
talented artists, offer exclusive access to resources, and help them build sustainable
music careers.
2. Can you tell us more about the personalized artist
development programs that Obsidian Cult Records offers to
musicians?
Certainly! Obsidian Cult Records offers personalized artist development programs that
focus on understanding each musician's unique strengths and goals. We provide
guidance in songwriting, composition, vocal/instrumental coaching, production
assistance, and branding strategies. Access to industry professionals and support in
various areas of the music business is also included. Our aim is to empower artists to
build sustainable careers, explore multiple revenue streams, and maintain their artistic
integrity and vision.
3. How does Obsidian Cult Records strategically contract
with artists to help them expand their reach and grow their
careers?
At Obsidian Cult Records, our strategic contracting with artists is based on a
collaborative and artist-centric approach. We prioritize the artists' interests and
creative freedom while ensuring they have access to the resources they need to
expand their reach and grow their careers. Our contracts are designed to be fair and
transparent, ensuring that artists retain ownership of their music and creative rights.
We work closely with each artist to develop personalized strategies that align with
their goals, whether it's through targeted marketing campaigns, exposure to new
audiences, or exploring various revenue streams. By providing exclusive access to
industry professionals and valuable tools, we aim to foster their growth and success in
the music industry while maintaining a mutually beneficial partnership.
4. San Antonio, Texas, is known for its rich music culture.
How has the local music scene influenced Obsidian Cult
Records' approach and mission?
San Antonio's vibrant music culture has had a profound impact on Obsidian Cult
Records' approach and mission. Being situated in such a music-rich city, we have been
exposed to a diverse range of talented artists and musicians, each with their unique
stories and journeys. The local music scene has reinforced our belief in the power of
music and the importance of supporting artists in their pursuit of a successful career.
Witnessing the challenges and triumphs of local musicians has further fueled our
commitment to being the anti-label, providing a platform that empowers artists to
thrive without the typical barriers of the industry. Our experiences in San Antonio have
strengthened our resolve to nurture artists' growth, offer valuable resources, and
ensure that they have the support they need to turn their passion for music into a
sustainable living.
5. In what ways does Obsidian Cult Records foster a
collaborative and supportive community for artists? Can you
share some examples of how this has benefited musicians
on your label?
Obsidian Cult Records fosters a collaborative and supportive community for artists in
several ways. Firstly, we prioritize open communication and a strong partnership with
our signed artists. We actively involve them in decision-making processes and seek
their input on various aspects of their music careers. This collaborative approach
ensures that their artistic vision is honored and respected.
Secondly, we encourage artists on our label to connect with one another, share
experiences, and collaborate on projects. This sense of camaraderie among our artists
creates a supportive community where they can learn from each other and find
inspiration.
Furthermore, we organize events, workshops, and networking opportunities to bring
artists together with industry professionals. This not only enhances their skills but
also helps them build valuable connections within the music industry.
One example of how this collaborative and supportive community has benefited
musicians on our label is the formation of bands through artist connections within the
label. Some of our artists have come together to create new bands and explore
different musical genres, leading to exciting and innovative collaborations that might
not have happened without the supportive environment Obsidian Cult Records
provides.
Additionally, we've witnessed instances where more experienced artists have
mentored and guided emerging talents, helping them navigate the challenges of the
industry and refine their craft. This mentorship has proven invaluable in supporting the
growth and development of our artists.
Overall, by fostering a collaborative and supportive community, Obsidian Cult Records
creates an environment where artists can flourish, learn from one another, and
collectively work towards building successful and sustainable music careers.
6. As the owner of Obsidian Cult Records, what do you
consider the most significant achievements or milestones for
the label so far?
As the owner of Obsidian Cult Records, one of the most significant achievements for
the label has been the recent signing of Counterfeit Icons in San Antonio. We are
thrilled to have them as part of our roster and to be supporting their musical journey.
An important milestone in our collaboration with them has been fully automating their
merchandise sales, allowing them to start generating revenue from their music. This
achievement exemplifies our commitment to empowering artists to make a living from
their passion without the burdens of massive upfront costs or complicated industry
barriers. We see this as a step forward in our mission to provide artists with the tools
and resources they need to succeed in the music industry.
7. Turning passion for music into a thriving career is a
challenging process. How does Obsidian Cult Records guide
and support artists through this journey?
At Obsidian Cult Records, we guide and support artists in their journey of turning
their passion for music into a thriving career through a personalized and
comprehensive approach. We provide exclusive access to resources, including
industry professionals, production studios, marketing expertise, and other
essential tools to create high-quality music and effectively promote their work.
Our collaborative relationship with artists involves open communication, where
we value their creative vision and involve them in decision-making processes.
We work closely with our signed artists to develop tailored strategies that align
with their unique strengths and goals. From artist development, including
songwriting, composition, and branding, to exploring multiple revenue streams
like merchandise sales, live performances, and licensing opportunities, we
ensure they have the support and guidance they need to succeed. Moreover, we
encourage artists to connect with one another, fostering a supportive community
that encourages collaboration and inspires growth. Our ultimate mission is to
empower artists at every stage of their music career, providing the necessary
tools, resources, and a nurturing environment to help them build sustainable
long-lasting careers.
8. Building a global audience for bands requires effective
strategies. Could you elaborate on some of the key
approaches Obsidian Cult Records employs to help artists
reach an international fan base?
Certainly! Obsidian Cult Records employs effective strategies to help artists
reach a global audience. We focus on building a strong online presence through
digital marketing and social media, reaching new fans worldwide. International
distribution and licensing opportunities are pursued to ensure their music is
available on major platforms and featured in various media. We support artists in
planning international tours and live performances to connect directly with
diverse audiences. Cross-collaborations with other artists and localization of
content help us resonate with specific regions, and we establish partnerships
with labels and distributors globally. These approaches enable our artists to
expand their reach and cultivate a strong international fan base.
1. How did LCTR come together as a band, and what inspired the members to focus on delivering a purist, heavy hardcore sound?
Tim
(Guitars ): No one wanted to see our weird melodic metal band so back
to basics we went. Travis is also in need of a drummer for his band that
is better than us.
Travis
(Vocals): To quote the band God’s Hate “Life is hard, Be Harder”. As Tim
stated, my previous band went on hiatus, so they approached me about
doing something on the side.
2. Can you tell us more about the origin of the band's name "LCTR" and its significance or meaning?
Tim:LCTR
or lactator or locationer is a term derived in the northern dialect of
Antarctica and the chosen language of the original habitants.
Travis:
a lot of the history of Antarctica has been hidden, they dont want you
to know about the original habitants. They even left pyramids behind.
3.
Given the experienced backgrounds of the band members from various
local bands, how has this collective experience influenced LCTR's
musical approach and style?
Tim: I played my first show last month.
Travis: we just play what we think will make someone grab a chair and smash their friend over the head with it.
4.
The debut EP, "Goodness Won't Save You From The Fire," has received
positive reviews with an overall rating of 8 out of 10. How does the
band feel about this response, and what are their thoughts on the EP's
impact in the hardcore scene?
Tim: 6 points higher than anything else we've ever done. It is very much appreciated but doesn't help keep me in the dark place.
Travis:
its awesome that people like it, but at the end of the day, music is
what keeps me from killing myself, so ill keep playing whether people
dig it or not.
5.
What were the main influences behind the three original tracks on the
debut EP? Are there any particular themes or messages the band wanted to
convey through their music and lyrics?
Tim: The year 2009, and just trying to be as heavy as collective soul. Maybe one day.
Travis:
i really thought we were trying to be as heavy as smash mouth at first.
The only message is that life sucks and then you die.
6.
Richmond, Virginia, has a notable hardcore scene. How has the local
scene influenced LCTR's music and their journey as a band?
Tim: Everyone in Richmond would rather I just give up and sell insurance or something.
Travis:
im pretty sure Tim would make a great State Farm agent. We’ve been
received rather well with the two shows we’ve played.
7. With members coming from different local bands, how did LCTR manage
to find a cohesive musical direction while maintaining their distinctive
sound?
Tim: Got the idea to jam some older simpler tunes with our buddy who was having band difficulties. Fun ensued.
Travis: we prayed to the dark lord Cthulhu for guidance and under his blessed gaze, we found our inspiration.
8.
"Goodness Won't Save You From The Fire" is described as having a raw
character. Can the band elaborate on the creative process behind the EP
and how they captured this raw essence in their music?
Tim: We pretty much just one take'd everything and was like yea good enough.
Travis:
as Tim said, everyone was a fairly easy process. Too many bands now a
days want to sound like robots. We are human beings playing these songs
so sometimes those slight imperfections make something magical.
9.
LCTR has already left a strong impression with their debut EP. What can
fans expect from the band in the future, and are there any upcoming
projects or releases in the works?
Travis:
rest assured, we have more songs in the works. We will record a follow
up EP in the near future and we can ensure you expect more of the same
Tim: Someone said something about selling insurance?
10.
In the hardcore genre, connecting with fans and delivering powerful
live performances is essential. How does LCTR approach their live shows,
and what do they hope audiences take away from their performances?
Tim: I just close my eyes and go spin mode. Sometimes I try not to fall down.
Travis: we crave blood and violence and the flesh of the living.
Know more about them:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091667394174
Hi Maxi! Congratulations on the release of your new single, 'Beautiful Shell'! Can you tell us a bit about the inspiration behind the song?
It’s a lot to do with technology moving so fast, it can feel like whiplash sometimes. We are at this huge technological turning point in humanity, which I find both exciting and terrifying! This song is about that balance.
You've worked with notable artists and projects in your role as a mastering engineer, and as a product developer for Spitfire Audio. How do these experiences contribute to your own artistic growth and development?
My background in working intimately with audio from the likes of Hans Zimmer, Ólafur Arnalds and Charlie Clouser is very inspiring as it exposes the bounds of what’s possible, and the incredibly unique signature, flavour and character that an individual can bring to various sounds. That kind of influence on audio is so special, something to behold, and it’s certainly inspired the way I compose music.
As for Mastering and writing, working with Rabea Massaad, despite him being a long time friend and collaborator, never ceases to inspire new ways of thinking and producing music. He’s truly an ongoing influence as the various iterations of his music always speak to me - particularly from a musical standpoint where his ear and note choices are second to none!
Your music has been featured in a variety of TV and film productions. Is there a particular project or collaboration that stands out to you as a memorable experience?
Louis Theroux’s “Dark States”. That was so moving for me because I’ve absolutely loved his work for years, and those documentaries had been a huge inspiration for me growing up. Netflix’s “Cable Girls” and “Ouro Verde” also, because it was an incredible feeling to know that the music is heard internationally across a variety of genres and shows - When I started out years ago, that had always been the dream!
As a composer, producer, and filmmaker, you have a diverse range of skills. How do you balance these different creative outlets in your work?
A mixture of all three is an ideal combo, and the most fun means of storytelling in my opinion. I feel like they all inform one another - composing for TV has informed me as to how music can add to narrative. Production and sound design also enhances that massively, and visually we can say so much without exposition in dialogue - I love blending the three, although it is a tricky balance. I’ve made visuals to accompany music, I’ve made music to accompany visuals, and had them in equal parts. I think mastering a unique mixture is the goal for me going forward.
Your background as a firefighter and trauma care medic is quite unique. How have these experiences influenced your approach to storytelling through music and film?
I think it flipped my priorities for sure. After seeing incidents on that job, it felt more important to use music to achieve something. At the time I fused a short film about a car accident with a song of the same theme, which went to be used for national safety campaigns which felt fantastic, as it was like a safety video in disguise!
I dare say that what I experienced in that job added intensity to what I make now, and I want to use it to create solidarity for shared struggles, and to help in some way.
I'm curious about your upcoming album. Can you give us any hints about what we can expect in terms of themes or musical direction?
I’m excited to mix it up. I like genre mashing and have previously done a mix of blues, rock, singer/ songwriter to metal and prog! So I’m excited to see where I can take that, I’d love to write some more anthem style commercial songs - I love technical writing, but I feel that paradoxically, there’s far more challenge in writing a simple yet excellent song!
With 'Beautiful Shell,' you delve into the impact of technology on human evolution and well- being. What inspired you to explore this theme, specifically focusing on fears surrounding artificial intelligence?
I think it’s an exciting yet unsettling time to be alive right now. I’ve become more aware of a sense that social media is steering us, me, ever so subtly - and that’s concerning if we’re not aware of it! I think technology gives so much, but it also takes away. For me, I have a sense that it’s moving faster than we can keep up with and it felt important to put into a song. “Beautiful Shell” is online persona. The song is a remember that despite social media pressure; “It’s enough to be yourself”.
Your music is often described as blending vivid and pop-inspired hooks with progressive composition and modern technicality. How do you approach merging these different elements to create your unique sound?
My background in production music really informs how I write prog. I love complexity in music, however it always felt important to have a central theme or melody holding things together, especially if the music is very hectic! It's tough because frantic music leaves little room for a hooky top line, so I’ve made it a challenge to myself to experiment with both in the same song.
Can you share any insights into your creative process when it comes to writing and producing music? Do you have any particular rituals or techniques that help you get into the right mindset?
Composition is often determined by a good brief, and a good interpretation of that brief. I often love to find sounds first, that will usually inspire a melody, which inspires rhythm, and then you are off! Rock/Metal is sometimes more difficult if you only have guitars/drums/bass/vocals etc to play with - then it really relies on either a fantastic hook or instrumental technicality. When I start with guitar, the song usually ends up being very technical and proggy. If I start with a vocal hook, it’s more poppy/ commercial. If I ever get stuck, I try to write with an instrument I’m less familiar with, and that can be a great means of breaking out of a block! Recently, being less and less of a perfectionist is definitely helping me get more done.
Thank you so much for taking the time to answer these questions, Maxi! Is there anything else you'd like to share with your fans and listeners before we wrap up
I hope you enjoy the new song, and I’m excited to share more with you soon!
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All Is Allowed online:
Spotify: https://sptfy.com/allisallowed
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allisallowedofficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/all.is.allowed
Youtube: https://youtube.com/@allisallowed9389
Email: official.all.is.allowed@gmail.com
Press Agency/Source: JZ Press (@jzpressassessoria)
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