Interviews: Tiwanaku

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Progressive Death Metal/Melodic Death Metal band, Tiwanaku from the USA. Check out the interview and follow the band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

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

I was reading Erich Von Daniken's first book "Chariots of the Gods" I was still in Nocturnus and I was searching for a name for a new band. I knew it was only a matter of time before Nocturnus was going to split up again soi started Tiwanaku. After reading more about this mysterious place and seeing the spelling Tiwanaku I knew right then that was going to be the name. There is more than one spelling but this one just made sense to me and clicked with me so that was it. Back in 2002 was when this decision was made.

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

I love metal. Death metal has been my genre of choice for a very long time. I love it.

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

No. We all met along the way

4. Each band member's favorite band?

Ed - I don't have a favorite band. There are just too many killer bands and genres to pick just one. When I was in high school it was Metallica.

Sean "Hairy" Valentine - Death

Ryan ONeill - Yes

Ryan Hurka - Black Dahlia Murder

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

Me, there are many things that inspire me to write songs. Real-life stories of things that have happened to me. Dreams I have had. I am also very inspired when I see UFO, or anything unexplained. The paranormal is inspiring. Uncovering truths that have been hidden from the public is also very inspiring.

6. Where was your last gig?

We just opened for the Moonspell/Eleine tour at Preserving the Underground in New Kensington Pennsylvania.

7. Where would you like to act?

We would love to tour Europe, the United Kingdom, South America, Japan, Australia, and more. We would love to play Wacken Open Air or Any of the great festivals in Europe...

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

It doesn't matter to us. We will play with any bands similar to us.

9. Whom not?

We'll play with any bands in our genre and beyond.

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

"I had some stage fright but that was when I was still a teenager.

Practice and rehearse on a normal schedule before you do any live appearances or tours. The more you play the songs together the better you will play and perform and the more confidence you will have when you walk out on that stage. Preparation is the key to all of it for me.

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

Metallica, Slayer, Pink Floyd, Judas Priest, Carcass, and so many more!!

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

My stage-worn underwear. I decline lol

13. What do you think of your fans?

We absolutely 1000% love our fans!! Without our fans we are nothing.

14. What do you think of our site?

Love the site! Keep up the amazing work!!

15. Something to add?

Many people do not understand why it took so long for the band to get off the ground. Between the revolving door of members coming and going and the health issues I had to endure it took some extra time. Now I am better thanks to my many doctors. It's time to make Tiwanaku Metal and bring it to the masses and fans. Thank you so much for the great interview!!