Interviews: Dirtred

This is a new interview with the Groove Metal band Dirtred from Poland. Check out the interview and follow the band on his FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. Where did you get the idea for the band name, you plan it or come out just like that?

I was a teenager when Dirtred was founded. We wanted to have a one-word name like Slipknot, or Korn. From the perspective, it sounds a little nu-metal–ish. We played with words and this is how it emerged.

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

Back in the day, groovy stuff was our favorite music to listen to. As a guitarist, I never had eased with soloing so rhythm became my strong side. As time goes our music evolves but a strong rhythm has always been a foundation. We also want to sound modern so not only dinosaurs can like us!

3. Did you know each other before the band was formed?

We had several line-up changes and yes - some relationships were older than playing together, and some started in the band. But playing in a band or making something together makes stronger relationships than thousands of hours talked over. This is because shared memories are created. Even the hard times are remembered well.

4. Each band member's favorite band?

There are plenty of them! But let's stick to one: Bleed From Within (Marcin, drummer), Humanity’s Last Breath (Maciej, bassist), Emmure (Andrzej, vocalist), SikTh (Sławek, guitarist).

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

It always starts with some riff that evolves over weeks until I have a sketch of a whole song. It’s very helpful when a drummer suggests some rhythm that can be a base. As for the lyrics we take a lot from literature. In general art triggers art. 

6. Where was your last gig?

Last week we played in Kraków - our hometown in Poland. It was a good one but the soundman really should have used a dB meter or something - it was way too loud!

7. Where would you like to act?

We would love to play at Pol’and’Rock! Do you know this one? It’s probably the biggest free-entry festival in Europe. It’s huge! Besides, years ago I bet with my friend that whoever plays there first wins a bottle of Jameson.

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

Hans Zimmer! Our music would work well with electronics, and synths, that would be interesting. I can’t give you the name but it has to be something greater than just having Will Ramos on the second verse. A true synergy!

9. Who not?

We’re not really interested in cooperation with rappers. Mostly because mixing these two genres usually doesn’t fit into any scene's taste. Or maybe it should be done properly?

10. Have any of you ever suffered from stage fright? Any tips for beginners on how to beat that?

Definitely, we had! It would be obvious to say practice makes perfect but it is true. Play rehearsals not looking at each other, imagine you’re in front of a crowd, record yourself, switch these damn lights off! And be an expert on your gear and all connections. Having the comfort that everything works perfectly and you can easily fix anything takes a lot of stress out.

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

Actually, I was learning to play the guitar with In Flames songs. Slipknot and Korn presented me with the power of simple riffs. Extol taught more complicated rhythms. Unearth and Shadows opened the gates of metalcore. These bands and a few others really shaped me as a guitarist and composer.

12. What's the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you for?

Getting locked in a toilet with a peeing girl was definitely weird. Especially that people waiting in a queue had seen us leaving. If only they knew!

13. What do you think of your fans?

We must have similarities because otherwise, our music wouldn’t move them in any way. I have huge respect for them because metal is a complex piece of music that requires dedication.

14. What do you think of our site?

Great design, it looks very up-to-date and not something from the 90s which is unfortunately very prevalent among sites on metal music. I really appreciate classic websites because in recent years everything is on fan pages etc. Just remember to add the https protocol!

15. Something to add?

When we hear what most teenagers are listening to, it’s terrifying how low-quality this music is. If you’re reading this interview, and listening to bands like us, you’re doing a great job of keeping this scene alive. Thank you for that and see you at the show!