Horrible Death is a band that started exactly 21 years ago in 2003. The Indian metal scene was emerging at that time. Over the years, a lot has changed, and the band has also seen many changes, with members leaving and new members joining.

However, what hasn’t changed is his appeal and ever-growing loyal fan base. They have also shared the stage with legends such as Lamb of God, Fear Factory, Satyricon and Amon Amarth. BM, as the band is called by fans, is one of the most sought-after metal bands today, performing at every major music festival. Actually, they are preparing to give a memorable performance Bandland 2.0 to be held in Bengaluru on 23rd and 24th November,

Ahead of the event, India Today Digital met the band for an exclusive interview, where they talked about how they dealt with the exit of members, their focus on writing original songs that stand the test of time, and the evolving situation in India. Discussed the metal scene.

Part:

This may be the most asked question, but I’ll proceed anyway. Metal is not a traditional genre when it comes to India. How did you guys end up becoming one of the fans’ favorite metal bands? Also, what were the challenges?

I think it’s about sticking to our guns and continuing to play new music and shows. For us, and for today’s bands, less of a challenge but a prerequisite and a work in progress, is to update the business models associated with today’s music industry – whether it’s technology or what you bring to the stage to stay relevant.

Metal is often seen as an outlet for aggression and deep emotions. is that true? How do you incorporate personal experiences into your songwriting and music production?

All music is an expression of the translation or processing of an experience or emotion. It won’t just be streamlined to metal. You can cry at your favorite artist or have fun at a metal show. You also do not want to get entangled in public affairs. Therefore, music and live shows give room for the expression of any emotion, no matter the genre.

For us, writing original music is a personal experience in itself. I’m sure that for the rest of the band, when they contribute a song, it’s an expression of their current inner experience colored by their emotions and the feelings of the band’s current collective consciousness.

How do you maintain consistency in your core identity while experimenting with different styles?

The aim since day one has been to write good songs that will stand the test of time. So, that view with respect to our output has not changed. We’re always looking for ways to hone our songwriting skills. We will always be considering different styles, but with a backbone of our primary influences of metal. And, I think at the end of the day, the primary identity comes from the primary songwriters and their approach, who tend to stay connected to their musical roots, but also acknowledge the evolution of the music.

Can you shed some light on your approach to songwriting and how you choose themes for each album?

We’ve removed the entire album aspect of things to focus on the singles – helping us keep things fresh, work on and flesh out the songs better, and consistently put out a polished product.

We meet up as often as possible to jam or do writing sessions where we submit music and organize things to eventually finalize a structure.

How do you deal with the challenges when a band member leaves?

One lesson we have learned is that change is the only constant in life. Over the band years, changes occur much more rapidly. And we have a lot of people come and go. Every time someone goes, we focus on why we want to do it and what music we want to put out. If, at that point, the answer is yes, then we look for someone who is of the same mind as us.

How do you keep the energy up for both yourself and your audience during your show?

The music and its intensity is enough for the crowd. For us to deliver, we must fire on all cylinders. You bring these together and you have a provocative show.

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Have you considered collaborating with artists outside the metal genre? If so, what artists or genres would you like to explore?

We recently had a release with Uday Benegal of Indus Creed and we had the opportunity to play a set with him at Last Independence Rock. If any opportunity comes in future we will accept it.

How do you see the Indian metal scene evolving? What role do you think BM has played in shaping the scene?

We ourselves are part of a movement in Indian metal with bands like Scribe, Demonic Resurrection etc. who shifted their focus to writing original music at a time when most of our local influences were busy playing covers.

I think this whole period has changed the attitude of a lot of Indian metal heads towards embracing original music, and people in bands wanting to write new and original music.

What advice would you give to emerging Indian metal bands trying to make a place for themselves in today’s music industry?

Get like-minded people. Set goals for the band. Play our regular music. Think internationally, many great bands like Gutslit and Bloodywood are doing well outside our country. This is possible if you have a business plan. Don’t get too attached to any musical part and be open to musical input from other band members. And in the end, the best songs are the ones that come out the fastest.

The second edition of Bandland is produced and promoted by BookMyShow Live, the live entertainment experiential division of BookMyShow. It will take place on 23rd and 24th November at Nice Grounds, Bengaluru with performances from Avenged Sevenfolds, Bloodywood, A7X. Raman Nagidot, Sutej SinghZero, Selvaganesh, The Wanton Bishops, others.