Immolation is one of the pioneer bands in the Death Metal scene. Due to reasons beyond their control; they have not got the recognition they deserve. But their new album "Failure For Gods" will hopefully give Immolation the status within the Death Metal scene they deserve. Bob from Immolation answered our questions.
1. Where and when were Immolation formed ? Please give us a short biography.
We formed in '88 after me and Tom's first band, Rigor Mortis (NY) broke up. We did 2 demos as IMMOLATION in '88 & '89. Signed to Roadrunner in '90. Released "Dawn Of Possession" lp in '91, toured, later signed to Metal Blade and released "Here In After" in '96. Toured extensively. Now we have "Failures For Gods"!
2. Please tell us more about the "Dawn of Possession" album you released on Roadrunner Records some years ago.
It was our debut album and quite an experience for us after doing demos for 5 years. Back then it was really something special to get signed. The album itself was recorded in Berlin, Germany. So it was really cool to not only be recording our first record, but to do it in the metal capital of the world! Harris Johns was the producer (Voivod, Kreator, Sodom) , he did a great job. It is an infamous, dark and heavy record and we are real proud of that one! For a debut we could not have asked for a better one.
3. You had some experiences with Roadrunner Records, which forced you into a long break just when your career was about to take off. What was going on ?
Basically we had a difference of opinion as to the way they were doing things, so we just parted ways.
4. A kind of comeback, at least on CD, was the "Stepping On Angels..Before Dawn" compilation CD of old stuff your released on Repulse Records. Please tell us more about this CD.
Anyone who wants to know about our beginnings will definitely want to check out this cd. It is a collection of demos, old live shows, and filled with art and reviews from the time. It really gives you a feel for how the climate was in the underground scene back then.
5. Please tell us more about your second album "Here In After" album, which you released on Metal Blade some years ago.
"Here In After" was our next step. The music was more involved and more hateful. Definitely an album you need to hear a few times before it sinks in, but when it does it leaves a lasting impression! A very powerful and intense album! This is where we started to grow musically as well as lyrically where we got more personal in our words.
6. Please present us to your new album "Failure For Gods". The recording, lyrics, music, artwork, booklet, line - up and concept.
This is the best one yet! Very dark, very heavy, very to the point. We took our innovation far beyond what we've done in the past and came up with some real interesting songs. We are the most pleased with this release. It will definitely draw in those not so familiar with the heavier music. There is a certain tone and mood this whole albyum casts out, and we feel it captures IMMOLATION 100%.
7. How would you compare the new album with the two previous albums ? Any style changes ?
The new album is more mature, as we are more mature ourselves. We've been doing this for 13 years now, and this album shows it! The music is more diverse and complex. It is actually catchier in a way, but at the same time, more brutal and unholy! We always try to create fresh material without loosing our roots. That's exactly what we've done with "Failures For Gods".
8. Immolation is very active on the live front. As far as I know, there are only a couple of icebergs in Antarctica you have not toured yet. Where is Immolation at it's best; live or in the studio ?
We are definitely a live band. We love the studio too, but being in front of the crowds and really feeling music is where it's at!!! Our hearts and souls are in this music and anyone who's seen us live will tell you that it shows! We don't fuck around when it comes to playing our music! We are practically possessed up there on the stage. And when the crowd is really into it, then all hell breaks loose !
9. You have been in the scene for the last ten- fifteen years. How is today's Death Metal scene compared to the so called "golden days" of the Death Metal scene in '90 - '92 ??
Well one of the biggest differences is that back then I think bands had more identity. These days there are just too many bands copying each other. In the late 80's when you got a demo from a band , there was something different there. Like Nihilist (now Entombed) had their unique sound, but then a band like Paradise Lost (who was death metal at the time) had a completely different approach and sound, as did we. These days there are a million more bands and 90% of them are all doing the same kind of thing. Not to say that there aren't anymore new bands that are good, because there are a lot of good ones out there. It's just that now they are not as many as back then that really stick out as being unique.
10. What is your plans for the rest of 1999 ??
We plan to tour through late October. Then we will rehearse for a new album and plan to be in the studio in February to record it. After that we will do a lot more touring and release the new album mid next year.
11. Where can Immolation be contacted ? Any web sites ?
Immolation
12. Any final comments ?
Thanks for the interview and support. Hope to see everyone out on the road !