In this captivating interview, Zach, the frontman of Dead Animal Assembly Plant, shares insights into the band’s unique journey, creative process, and the challenges of the music industry. From their latest single ‘Cinders’ to future plans, dive into the world of horror industrial metal and discover what makes this band truly special.
Table of Contents
- Dead Animal Assembly Plant
- Writing Process
- Touring with Combichrist
- New Single Release – Cinders
- Cinders Overview
- Upcoming Album Details
- Insights on The Music Industry
- Future Plans for Dead Animal Assembly Plant
- Development of Stage Looks
- Additional Mentions
- Farewell Message
- FAQ
Dead Animal Assembly Plant
The name “Dead Animal Assembly Plant” evokes a visceral reaction, and Zach, the frontman, explains that it stems from a real business license in Oregon. This license is required for transporting and storing animal carcasses, and its absurdity struck him as a perfect fit for the band’s horror industrial metal aesthetic. The name not only captures attention but also encapsulates the absurdity of bureaucracy intertwined with the grotesque imagery the band embodies. The juxtaposition of the mundane and the macabre is a theme that resonates throughout their work.
Zach relishes the mixed reactions to the name, noting that it either intrigues or repulses people, which is precisely the response he aims for. He describes the name as cartoonishly ridiculous, aligning it with his own persona and the band’s overall image. The “assembly” aspect adds an additional layer of absurdity that Zach finds particularly amusing, suggesting a bizarre process of reconstructing animal parts, which he compares to their own artistic process of assembling music and performance.
When discussing the band’s identity, Zach emphasizes the collaborative nature of their music creation. While he takes the lead in lyric writing and initial track development, each member contributes their unique flair. This collaborative spirit is reflective not just in their sound but also in their performances, where each member embodies their character, contributing to a cohesive yet diverse stage presence. The band’s ethos revolves around creating an engaging experience for their audience, ensuring that each performance is more than just a set of songs.
Writing Process
Zach’s writing process is deeply influenced by his background in drama and storytelling. He approaches lyrics as a narrative, drawing inspiration from renowned lyricists like Tom Waits and Leonard Cohen. The emphasis on storytelling allows him to craft lyrics that are not only unique but also emotionally resonant. He strives to express complex themes in a way that avoids clichés, aiming for depth that invites listeners to ponder the underlying messages.
The collaborative effort extends beyond lyrics; it involves the entire composition process. Zach provides a skeletal framework for songs, which then evolves as band members contribute riffs, melodies, and percussive elements. This synergy leads to a richer, more dynamic sound, as each member’s strengths and ideas are woven into the final product. The result is a blend of individual artistry and collective creativity, showcasing the best of what each member brings to the table.
Touring with Combichrist
Earlier this year, Dead Animal Assembly Plant embarked on a tour with Combichrist, an experience that Zach describes as a significant learning opportunity. Touring across North America, they faced various challenges that tested their resilience as a band. However, these hardships only served to strengthen their camaraderie, creating bonds that transcended mere professional relationships. The shared experiences on the road fostered a unique sense of unity among the bands, transforming potential obstacles into shared stories of survival.
Zach reflects on the importance of these connections, highlighting how the tour solidified their identity as a band. The interactions with other artists and the audience contributed to a deeper understanding of their own music and performance style. This tour not only showcased their talent but also reinforced the value of community within the music industry. The relationships built during this time are invaluable, shaping their future endeavors and aspirations.
New Single Release – Cinders
The release of their new single “Cinders” marks an exciting chapter for Dead Animal Assembly Plant. This track, featuring James Reitz from Crossbreed, represents a return to form after a period of relative quiet. The collaboration came about organically, with Zach reaching out to James after they hit it off during a previous tour. This synergy is evident in the song, which blends their distinct styles into a cohesive and powerful piece.
The development of “Cinders” was an interesting journey, beginning as an instrumental track intended for a DJ event. Over time, Zach recognized its potential as a fully-fledged song, prompting a complete overhaul of the original concept. Thematically, “Cinders” explores the idea of societal collapse and personal destruction, a reflection of contemporary anxieties that resonate deeply with listeners. Through vivid imagery and poignant lyrics, the song encapsulates the inevitability of decay and the transient nature of existence.
Zach’s insights into the song’s meaning reveal a profound commentary on humanity’s relationship with the environment and the consequences of our actions. The lyrics serve as a reminder of the fragility of civilization, encapsulating a sense of urgency that resonates with current global issues. As the band prepares to unveil the accompanying music video, they are eager to share this artistic vision with their audience.
Cinders Overview
The new single “Cinders” has quickly become a focal point for Dead Animal Assembly Plant. Zach explains that it evolved from an instrumental piece intended for a DJ event to a fully fleshed-out song. This transformation reflects the band’s ability to adapt and innovate. Thematically, “Cinders” delves into the darker aspects of society and the self, capturing feelings of decay and destruction in a world that often feels on the brink of collapse.
Zach shares that the writing of “Cinders” was heavily influenced by current events and the pervasive sense of unease that seems to pervade modern life. He articulates this sentiment, noting how the song serves as a metaphor for the inevitable decline of civilization. It’s not just about societal collapse; it also touches on personal destruction, making it a relatable anthem for many listeners grappling with their own struggles.
Upcoming Album Details
Looking ahead, Dead Animal Assembly Plant is in the midst of creating a new album set to release next year. Zach reveals that the band is aiming to drop one more single before the year concludes, which promises exciting collaborations that will resonate within the industrial music community. He mentions working with notable artists like Martin Atkins, whose contributions are sure to elevate the project’s profile.
The new album is expected to showcase the band’s growth and experimentation, blending their horror industrial metal roots with fresh influences and ideas. Zach emphasizes that the process is labor-intensive, involving meticulous writing, conceptualizing, and studio work to ensure the final product meets their artistic standards. This dedication to quality is what fans have come to expect from Dead Animal Assembly Plant.
Insights on The Music Industry
Zach candidly discusses the harsh realities of the music industry, particularly for independent artists. He acknowledges that while platforms like streaming services can help get music heard, they often fail to compensate artists fairly. This inequity has made it increasingly difficult for bands to sustain themselves financially, forcing many to juggle day jobs alongside their musical endeavors.
The conversation highlights a broader issue within the industry, where the profit margins are heavily skewed in favor of labels and streaming platforms. Zach encourages aspiring musicians to enter the scene for the love of the art rather than the pursuit of fame or financial gain. This passion is what ultimately sustains artists through the challenges they face.
Future Plans for Dead Animal Assembly Plant
As Dead Animal Assembly Plant gears up for the future, Zach expresses excitement about their upcoming projects and potential tours. The band is eager to promote their new album and reach a wider audience, particularly in Europe, where they hope to connect with fans and fellow artists. Zach’s enthusiasm is palpable as he discusses the possibility of touring internationally, which would be a significant milestone for the band.
In the meantime, the band will continue to work on their music and stage presence, ensuring that each performance remains an immersive experience for their audience. With their unique blend of horror aesthetics and industrial metal, Dead Animal Assembly Plant is poised to make a lasting impact in the music scene, and fans can look forward to more thrilling releases in the near future.
Development of Stage Looks
The stage presence of Dead Animal Assembly Plant is as integral to their identity as their music. Zach explains that the development of their stage looks is a collaborative effort among the band members. While each member creates their own unique look, they frequently help each other refine their costumes and makeup.
This DIY approach allows for a personal connection to their characters. Zach emphasizes that he encourages each member to develop their own persona, which not only makes their performances more authentic but also more engaging. He believes that when band members feel comfortable in their characters, it enhances the overall impact of their performances.
Craftsmanship plays a significant role in their aesthetic. The band members often create their own outfits, but they also commission pieces from talented artists when needed. Zach expresses gratitude for the artists he has collaborated with, particularly those who have crafted intricate masks that add depth to their performances.
This hands-on approach to their visual presentation reflects their commitment to creating a fully immersive experience for their audience. By intertwining their music with striking imagery, Dead Animal Assembly Plant ensures that their live shows are not just concerts but theatrical events.
Additional Mentions
Zach takes a moment to reflect on the broader music community and the importance of collaboration. He notes that the connections made with other artists, especially during tours, have been invaluable. These relationships often lead to creative collaborations, enriching the music scene as a whole.
He highlights the recent collaboration with James Reitz from Crossbreed, which not only added a new dimension to their single “Cinders” but also strengthened their ties within the industrial music community. Such partnerships exemplify the spirit of mutual support that exists among artists in this genre.
Additionally, Zach mentions their work with Belgian artists Mothmeister, emphasizing the beauty of combining dark art with soundscapes. This collaboration allowed them to explore new creative avenues, showcasing their versatility as artists and their willingness to step outside of traditional musical boundaries.
Through these collaborations, Dead Animal Assembly Plant continues to carve out a unique niche in the horror industrial metal scene, pushing the envelope of what can be achieved when artists come together.
Farewell Message
As the interview draws to a close, Zach expresses his heartfelt gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support. He acknowledges that the journey of Dead Animal Assembly Plant has been filled with challenges and triumphs, and it is the fans that have made it all worthwhile.
He encourages listeners to stay tuned for upcoming projects, including their new single and the anticipated album. Zach emphasizes that the band’s evolution is ongoing and that they are excited to share their journey with their audience.
In his farewell, Zach also reminds fans to engage with the band on social media. He highlights the importance of community in the music scene, urging fans to support not just Dead Animal Assembly Plant but all artists striving to create and share their passion. This sense of unity is what makes the music community thrive, and Zach is proud to be a part of it.
As he signs off, Zach leaves the audience with a sense of anticipation for what lies ahead for Dead Animal Assembly Plant, underscoring that their story is far from over.
FAQ
What is the meaning behind the band’s name, Dead Animal Assembly Plant?
The name comes from a real business license in Oregon required for transporting and storing animal carcasses. Zach found the absurdity of the name fitting for the band’s horror industrial metal aesthetic, as it evokes both intrigue and repulsion.
How does the band approach songwriting?
Songwriting is a collaborative effort, with Zach primarily handling lyrics and initial track development. Each member contributes their unique ideas, resulting in a dynamic and rich sound that reflects their collective creativity.
What themes do the band’s songs explore?
The band’s music often delves into darker themes, exploring societal collapse, personal destruction, and the fragility of existence. Zach aims to craft lyrics that resonate emotionally while avoiding clichés.
Are there any upcoming tours or album releases?
Dead Animal Assembly Plant is currently working on a new album set to release next year. They plan to drop another single before the year’s end and are eager to promote their music through potential tours, especially in Europe.
How can fans support the band?
Fans can support Dead Animal Assembly Plant by following them on social media, streaming their music, and attending their shows. Engaging with the band’s content helps them reach a wider audience and continue creating.
