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MT = Mike Thall
MT - Let’s start with the basics. How did you guys come up with
the name Within The Ruins?
JC - We came up with the name so long ago, it was back when we
were in high school. Actually a good friend of ours who was playing guitar with
us at the time came up with "From Within The Ruins" originally. Once
we made our MySpace page we dropped the "From" and the name just
stuck. We actually considered changing it when we first got signed but decided
we had already built somewhat of a fan base under that name.
MT – And that fan base keeps on growing. You guys write some heavy ass tunes. What inspires you?
JC - Thanks! Well I guess our 6 years or so of touring has
definitely effected the way we write and sound now. "Heavy" just
works really well for us in a live scenario, so we do concentrate on that
aspect. Most importantly we try to balance our sound so there's a little bit
for every listener. We're always striving to push boundaries in this band.
"Heavier, faster, louder" is a pretty common old school "heavy
metal" motto I guess we've adopted from bands we looked up to as we were
learning to play our instruments.
MT – Speaking of inspirations, Within The Ruins is a BIG name in
the eyes of many metal heads. Any tips for aspiring musicians?
JC - It's really awesome to see bands appreciate and take
inspiration from our music. That was my dream the first day I picked up a
guitar! You have to take risks, you have to set goals, you have to make
sacrifices and you will see results.
MT - Definitely can see the results through your latest album “Elite”. Can you tell us about that
album and what went into creating it?
JC - The album means a lot to us honestly. We worked so hard on
it, and went through a lot of shit during the process of writing and recording
the album. As a band and as friends we all struggle together with this
lifestyle and I think a lot of emotion ended up in the album. The longer this
band lives, the stronger we get, and it feels great to be able to channel
through our music. We're proud of how the album came out and glad our fans are
enjoying it.
MT - Do you have any favorite tracks from the record?
JC - Depends on the mood I am in, but "I, Blaspheme"
"Solace" and "The Charm" still stand out to me even after a
few years of listening to all these songs.
MT - How do you feel about the response to “Elite”?
JC - It's overwhelming. Which is awesome. Our fans are true and
it seems they are growing with us as our music slowly changes, which doesn't
always happen. Fans and aspiring
musicians tell us they look up to us. People tell us our music and lyrics
inspire them. Hearing shit like that is what keeps us going!
MT - We know you guys tour a good bit. About how many times has
Within The Ruins hit the road over the years?
JC - So many times that I can't even remember all the tours
we've done. Were truly a DIY band. We started touring on our own with no label,
no booking agent etc back in 2006. We did that for a solid 3 years, 6 months
out of the year, because we liked the experience. We didn't make shit for
money, we didn't care. Obviously we've been lucky enough in the past few years
to finally start to land legit tours. We're on the road 9 months out of the
year now and still loving it. We're on our 5th touring van now and it has over
300k miles on it if that gives you any idea haha
MT - That's intense! And you’ll be heading out with After The Burial, The
Contortionist (unfortunately without Johnathan Carpenter), Glass Cloud, and
City In The Sea on The Road to New England Metal Fest Tour soon. Are you stoked
to be playing that and New England Metal Fest?
JC - Of course! Road to metal is a great line up and great
group of dudes to tour with! As far as new England metal fest goes it is such
an honor and accomplishment for us to be a part of. I grew up attending the
fest as a fan!
MT - What’s the craziest thing that’s ever happened to you on
tour?
JC - I gained 30 pounds the first year we started touring
because we partied and ate like slobs haha
MT - That's legit haha. What are your plans for the rest of the year?
JC - Tour, tour, tour! We have some good tours lined up for the
summer. They will be announced soon!
MT - You heard it people! Go see Within The Ruins! Now here's the fun round. The dude from the “Elite” cover pops up and
grants your band one wish. What are you wishing for?
JC - Tour with Metallica.
MT - I would go see that... twice. Those are all the questions we have. Thanks for your time!
Any shout outs you want to give?
JC - Thank you! Shout out to Josh Wickman at Dreadcore
Productions for making this album sound insane! Thanks to all our fans for the
support!
Links: Facebook // Twitter // iTunes // Official Store