Prophets Of The Apocalypse article with Pete Serro:
1.For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bit about the musical project?
The birth of Prophets Of The Apocalypse took place in October of 2017 officially. After 18 months of rebuilding Apocalypse Studios, it was fully operational, and finally, writing and recording sessions commenced. Following several months of scheduled mastering projects and musical collaborations, it became evident that all focus needed to be directed towards Prophets Of The Apocalypse. It felt as though there was a fire burning inside which was erupting into a fury of guitar riffs and drum punishment. Many songs were written and recorded in 6 months, but only those consistent with the musical vision were represented on the debut release.
2.How would you describe the musical sound that is presented on the recording?
Dark Thrash War Metal is our musical genre. Our intention was the creation or raw and ferocious music driven by double-bass battle drum madness. Emotion and darkness were chosen over a polished sound. These songs were ripped from my guts, hopefully resonating with listener while leading them through an unsettling musical journey.
3.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects you explore with your music?
In the album artwork, it reads, "Tales of War...nothing less, nothing more." The lyrics of the War Metal album portray tales medieval and viking conflict, and battles of the mind. Metaphors are often used which could either be actual battle references, or the inner conflict of man's deepest thoughts. Self empowerment and inner strength is subject matter, as well as, bloody details and gory battlefield references.
4.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Prophets Of The Apocalypse'?
We live in a unstable time, and are on the path to destruction as race. How and when this happens is unknown, but Prophets Of The Apocalypse would like do a public service by providing the soundtrack to one chapter of our demise.
5.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the EP cover?
It is simply our Prophets logo atop silvery clouds. Honestly, I've been working in the marketing industry ever since graduating from art school. If you follow the band on social media, you will notice a theme of black and white photos, castles, dark art, and medieval imagery. Men and women would look up towards the heavens to hear the voices of the gods and prophets.
6.With this project you record everything by yourself but have experience working with other musicians, how would you compare the two?
I didn't have to deal with a drummer, so that was a plus...just kidding. I was on a mission with this release of War Metal. A sense of urgency and tight scheduling, along with around-the-clock studio sessions made it more practical, this time around, with me recording everything. I do prefer working with other like-minded musicians for sure. Writing sessions flow better, I believe, while collaborating and jamming with others. This is why I'm currently auditioning Bassists.
7.Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?
First of all, Prophets Of The Apocalypse is seeking distribution worldwide. Our foundation is solid, and our fan base is increasing worldwide, due to social media campaigns, posts, networking and using publicists and PR companies. Yes, I would consider an interested record label. I am actively seeking labels as well. I was signed to a couple labels in my past with the bands Strychnine and Northwinds, so I know what, and what not, I'm interested in dealing with. I am speaking with several labels, but no deals are on the table at this moment. Feel free to contact us.
8.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of black, death and thrash metal?
Reaction worldwide has been very positive! I love it, especially, when other guitarists give me good feedback to my music. Since the vocals are old school Thrash blended with a Blackened Death style, Prophets Of The Apocalypse crosses over into these three extreme Metal worlds. I'm just singing (screaming) what needs to come out! Whether it's my guitar playing or singing, I just want it to come across as brutally raw and ferocious...straight from my soul.
9.When can we expect a full length and where do you see yourself heading into as a musician in the future?
Writing has just begun for the full length followup album in 2019. Prophets Of The Apocalypse aim to play at European Open Air Festivals in the summer of 2019. I am also personally available as a guitarist for a signed touring act in need of replacing or hiring a guitarist for tour or festival appearances. I'm very accessible if anyone is searching for me.
10.What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?
Here is a list of bands from today, and the past, who I listen to: Coroner, Kreator, Arch Enemy, Testament, Possessed, Behemoth, Nervosa, Slayer, Destruction, Jinjer, Death, Obituary, Evergrey, Michael Schenker, Immortal, Suicidal Tendencies, Sodom, and Nightwish.
11.What are some of your non musical interests?
Vegan cooking, graphic art and photography, vintage electronics, and traveling.
12.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
Thanks for interviewing Prophets Of The Apocalypse, first of all. Thanks especially to all of you strange creatures that have showed awesome support in this short time! You can expect to hear another album in 2019 that is true to our Dark Thrash War Metal style. Songs loaded with blistering double-bass drums, an assault of turbulent guitar riffing, thundering bass, and extreme unhinged vocals. Please check out www.warmetal.net and contact us.
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