Prior to their show at Glasgow’s G2 the past week, I had the opportunity to sit down for a brief chat with bassist Dan from ‘deathcore’ giants, Suicide Silence. In our short chat, amongst other things, we discussed the band’s plans for the year ahead and also his pre-show rituals. Read on for the full transcription…
How have the shows been so far?
Today marks day number three and we’re starting to get ‘real warm’. Started off a bit weird due to some gear issues, but now I feel as though we are kicking ass. It sucks that it’s only six days as it’s a really killer lineup but we’re really enjoying it so far.
When you were writing the new album, were there any points where you felt a bit disheartened or as though things weren’t working?
For sure man, yeah. When you’re writing you are going to feel that. It’s like when you are making a painting and you end up using the wrong shade of blue. You then realise that and make the thing better. It’s not always easy though as we are different and can often disagree on parts. We know how to talk with each other though and we iron out a lot of things. I always say that if a part doesn’t make you laugh, then it’s not right yet.
Keeping on the topic of writing, what were your influences when writing this album?
My influences have remained the same over the years in of metal bands but primarily it was what was going on in my head at the time. I was also listening to a lot of Type O Negative and as a result some of the parts have that kind of vibe. But it was mainly personal stuff though. Like if I was feeling depressed that day, then it was reflected in what I was playing.
What sort of instruments did you guys use for this album?
Primarily I used ESP/LTD basses with the Sans amp. The boys used Mesa Boogie amps, Marshall amps, ESP guitars and Ibanez guitars as well. Pretty much exactly what we use live as well.
Who inspired you to first pick up the bass and start playing?
Alex Webster from Cannibal Corpse. He was the main one that got me into bass playing. My friend Derek plays in Suffocation and Murray who plays in Severed Saviour taught me some things when I first learning. No-one insanely popular though. Mainly just the underground guys that have a heck of a lot of talent.
Do you have any pre-show rituals?
I take a nap for a bit and then wake up for about an hour before the show. I then brush my teeth which might seem a bit weird but I know some other folk do it.
Alex Webster does it too.
That’s right yeah he does! When I found that out I was like “I’m not the only one!” Haha. But no, I also do a bit of metal prep as well instead of physical prep.
What are the band’s plans for the next 6 to 12 months?
After this run, we’re going to be clearing our heads for a bit and spend a bit of time with our families and dogs. We’re doing a festival with Metallica and one with Danzig but aside from that, we’ve not really got much booked yet. We’re hoping to get a US tour booked for the summer, but we’ll wait and see.
Is there any advice you’d give new bands?
Don’t copy anybody. Like seriously, don’t. Be sociable with the people you are playing/touring with and don’t be afraid to your album/demo to the band you like. Don’t be scared to go to up to them as they were in your position once as well.
