Interviews: The Abstraction

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Metalcore artist The Abstraction from the UK. Check out the interview and follow the artist on his FACEBOOK PAGE.

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

The idea for the band name The Abstraction came from the definition of the word 'Abstraction' which means the quality of dealing with ideas rather than events. This went hand in hand with the idea around the EP Project I that I'm working on, which is themed around the trials and tribulations we all face through life, based on the feelings around this rather than specific events themselves.

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

Metalcore has been my go-to genre since I was around 18. I used to listen to all the staple metalcore bands of that time, such as Avenged Sevenfold, Killswitch Engage, Bullet For My Valentine, Parkway Drive, August Burns Red etc. These are the bands that got me into the music I love and helped shape the early stages of my style. I've used this, as well as a more modern metal sound, to shape a unique style and create something that stands out above the crowd.

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

I mean, it's just me. Hahaha. I knew Tom Gittins of Monochrome Productions before starting this project, who has done all of the mixing and mastering for each track. He recorded and produced tracks for a previous band I was in, so I know he's a pleasure to work with and he has an understanding of my style, sound and direction, which is really important. SIME of SEVENSENT is someone I stumbled across when I was looking for a vocalist to feature on the EP, as vocals are not my strongest suit, and he just fit the sound I was going for perfectly. He has such a great tone and range to his voice, and he's brought out the very best of each song. He's been an absolute pleasure to work with.

4. Each band member's favourite band?

That, again, is a really tough one. My favourite that isn't around anymore is LetLive. Absolutely loved them, and there are some subtle elements of their music in mine for sure. Fake History and the albums following are some of my favourites of all time. In terms of current bands, I would say Unprocessed. Their album released last month is beyond comprehension and the first album in a long time that left my jaw on the floor. Just so technically good and huge at the same time, which is a really tough balance to achieve.

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

This project has definitely been a life experience. The past 10 years have been tough and testing, to say the least, and I wasn't doing music for the most part of that. So this has really allowed me to channel that into something positive and connect with people who have been through similar things. Just create something really relatable. That and I've always tried to make something a bit more out of the box than your typical mainstream metal band.

6. Where was your last gig?

Well, I've not currently gigged with this project, but plan on putting a release show together upon the release of the EP, possibly in the summer months. But my last gig was around 8-9 years ago, in the West Midlands area. I can't specifically remember if it was a small local one, or in Birmingham supporting Defeater and Napoleon. But far too long!!!

7. Where would you like to perform?

The Bridge Inn/The Hive Rotherham!!!! They are a great bunch! It's a small venue, but they try really hard to keep the music scene alive in Rotherham, which is where I live. They pay the bands, put them up for the night, treat them well and do it all with free entry for attendees. Practically unheard of, in this area anyway, but it would be great to play and contribute to what they try to achieve.

8. Whom would you like to perform with?

One band??? Really tough one. I would probably say Polaris. I feel like myself and them together would be a great matchup and would really suit. Plus I love them, of course! Incredible band.

9. Whom not?

Cardi B. We would not be a vibe. Haha.

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

Erm, not really actually. I'm a really laid-back person, and I don't get that adrenaline response, or fight or flight as it were. But my advice is to relax! People coming to see you are there to have fun, so have fun with whatever you're doing. People vibe off of that.

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

Going back to my earlier answer, the staple, early metalcore bands were a big inspiration to me to get me started. But any bands that create something outside of the box that people recognise. Like Periphery, Enter Shikari, Breakdown Of Sanity, and Circle Of Contempt. They all have those stand-out sounds you recognise immediately. That's what I've always tried to create, rather than just following trends.

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

My pink boxers! I did a guitar playthrough video with my previous band which featured me in some small, pink boxer shorts and that was asked fairly often following that. More of a joke than a serious request though, thank god.

13. What do you think of your fans?

My fans are great! I've just started out again, but the feedback and support I've had has been incredible, and it's really surprised people that I've managed to produce these songs by myself, bar the vocals. And it's super rewarding to hear that feedback from people. It would be great for that to reach a wider audience too!

14. What do you think of our site?

I think the site is incredible, and there should be many more like it! To support smaller artists get exposure legitimately is such a difficult thing to navigate in the current climate, and marketing is an impossible task, so it's an absolute gem for people like myself to reach the wider audience we are looking for. Thank you!

15. Something to add?

Yes. My debut single 'Phoenix' was released on all streaming platforms and YouTube on 02/12/23, so please check that out. My next single 'Son' is released on 22/01/24, so imminently, on all streaming platforms and on YouTube, with another to follow shortly after. There is plenty to come this year, which I'm really excited about, so watch this space!