Interview with SHADOWGRIN
!!!HELLENIC METAL TO THE PIT!!!
We had a conversation with SHADOWGRIN.Enjoy!
Welcome to the FILTHY DOGS OF METAL Webzine.
1. Tell us a few things about SHADOWGRIN (Members, Starting Year etc).
Shadowgrin consist of Chris (vocals), Panos (drums), Leonidas (bass), Tony (Guitar) and at the time of the album recordings, also Manos (guitar).Currently, we are undergoing some small changes that will help us have a better flow and get more music out.We started slow at around 2015 with the EP "Shadowgrin" and we were mainly having fun around those years as young adults and university students.Ever since we decided to get the album out, we took a more professional approach that focuses on exposure, more music production and opportunities to play our music live.
2. You have recently release your album ''Shadowrise''. What is the feedback from your audience as well as from the press?
"Shadowrise" was a highly anticipated album among those that had known us from the local scene and lives in general. Both from our peers and from new fans, the album seems to fit nicey into people's taste and we are glad that happens, because it is the music we enjoy playing. The press also seems to enjoy the album, which is another good thing for us, since we seem to appeal to "the trained ear".
3. Label or DIY and why?
DIY for now, definitely. It is more flexible in terms of time constraints and in our case, life happens very often. We go on our own pace and we are thinking of investing more and more, in hope of being able to pursue a label deal. If you have the time and energy to pursue a label deal, you should go for it.
4. Do you prefer Vinyl, Tape, CD or Digital Format and why is that?
Nowadays, a digital format is more easily shared around so we definitely go with that. The vinyl is an amazing experience to go through and if our fans show interest, we might also go Vinyl, who knows. However, the golden middle ground always seems to be the CD. It is a good bet for a small band trying to get through and express themselves. Even though the vinyl seems to get more popularity these days, each merchandise item has its place according to the scene you are playing for. For us, it is digital for now and the CD will soon be available.
5. Your music style is Heavy/Power/Thrash Metal. Which are your main influences (Favourite Artists / Bands etc.)
Main influences like Pantera and Iced Earth have shaped the sound of the first album that just came out. Raw, groovy riffs, paired with the melodic touch that brings it all together, without letting one or the other take over. That's our middle ground. Currently, we are experimenting with slightly different elements on our writing process, so if you like Lamb of God and Shokran, you should stay tuned!
6. Which things, do you think, a Band should sacrifice in order to succeed?
The only sacrifice a band makes is that of fear. If you really want to pursue the adrenaline of playing live and sharing experiences with your fans, the only thing you sacrifice is that itself if you do not decide to go for it. Of course, economic constraints play a big role, but they have been there. You know what's in the game, you know what you have to go through. If it is what you want, doing what you have to do for it, instead of anything else is not a sacrifice. You don't lose something you want, you simply do what you want more.
Have you ever sacrificed anything in your life for a better future of your Band?
In our case, things have gone with a very convenient flow, honestly. To the extend that each member is able to, we all contribute to the band's future, but since we are still young, the hard stuff has yet to come.
7. Describe your ideal live show as a performance Band. Have you already experienced that?
The pinnacle of a musician's experience is feeling that the crowd is 100% focused on what you are playing. Seeing the crowd groove along with you during the set, singing along with the singer and moshing around is all we can ask for. You don't have to play in a huge festival to experience that, but we surely aim for that, too.
8. Which attributes, do you think, that a new Heavy Metal Band should have in order to gain identity and be unique?
Letting their emotions and thoughts guide their creative process. We are in an age that is beyond sticking to labels and that seems to guide people. If you focus on what comes out of your mind, you have ensured the "unique" element. That said, you can never go wrong with a nicely distorted sound in drop C# and groovy riffs that can make you head move every time you hear them.
9. Do you believe that Bandcamp and other Digital Platforms help the new Heavy Metal Bands? Which, do you think, is the ideal way for a Band to promote its work?
To some extend, it is a necessary evil. There is a trade-off between the economical support you get from the streaming services, but they provide a solid platform from which people can get to know you. In this day and age of flooding information, digital platforms are the way to go. You just have to approach them accordingly, find the way to best showcase your work.
10. Tell us a few things about the New Underground Metal Scene in Greece. (Bands, Fanzines, Webzines, Metal Clubs etc.)
There are many bands that have a very interesting, modern sound. Bands like Bionic Origin and Black Sun Ωmega from our town are a prime example. We also really like Meden Agan, great guys, great music. Our favourite Webzine is definitely the FILTHY DOGS OF METAL :) .
11. What are your future plans?
We are currently writing new material and we are also planning on doing some video clips in the future. The current situation has given us the opportunity to focus on writing new songs, which is nice.
12. Thank you very much for your time & Keep up the good work! The closure is yours.
We'll see you at the pit \m/
By Steve the Filthy Dog.
SHADOWGRIN CONTACT:
https://shadowgrin.bandcamp.com/