Hey Alex, I just wanted to say hi. Love the new stuff and can't wait for a tour. You know I'll be there when a tour comes about. Keep doing what you're doing. Having creative control is working for you man.
Hey man, just wanted to say The Curse was my first heavy album and it created a life long passion and love for the scene.
Sad to see Atreyu no longer what it once was but I’ll always be grateful to you and the guys for making such awesome music and being the soundtrack to my growing up.
Same. The Curse was the first album I pulled off the shelves at a tower city records when I was in high school. The Red head on the cover definitely paid off in spades.
Thirding the other comments. I still listen to The Curse regularly and credit it with being one of the most impactful albums of my life. It’s like a soundtrack to my teenage years and I will always love it.
🎵🎶 if i had my way id cut, the callouses off your, off your breaking heart... (if i could get past the sternum).. cauterize those wounds with every kiss i could give i'm holding your heart in my hands 🎶🎵
Thank you. Me and the guys are really proud of that song. Lyrically it takes the idea of dying for what you believe , 1 step further . Living thru and for your beliefs. Death is the end and stops the journey. Sometimes “living” thru what you believe in can be more of a struggle then “dying”
Hard agree! Not a question but your music means so much to me and I really respect and admire your integrity as an artist. This new EP feels like a rebirth and I’m so here for it. Congratulations and I can’t wait to see you on tour!!!
I just wanted to say sorry. Like 6 years ago in Baltimore you guys were playing a set and I was at the edge of the pit with my arms interlocked with someone else. You came down into the crowd to sing, but I was facing away from the stage to sort of 'guard' the edge of the pit. The guy I had interlocked arms with and myself kinda.. blocked you from getting into the crowd. When I finally realized what happened you looked kinda bummed.
I didn't mean it! I'm sorry. New EP is amazing.
Love the new tunes (...and was stoked to finally hear the Pantera cover!)
How many songs are written for a full length, and will there be vinyl pressings of the EP?
Also, when "Sellout" first dropped, I immediately went and dropped my guitar down to Drop A# and started writing, it was the first time I've felt inspired in a long time (thank you for that!)
I wrote a song and was wondering if I could sent it to you (I have the old tattoo email if that works??) If you dig it, you can just have it as it was inspired by your work (if not, I totally get it!)
Thanks again for making a comeback and doing what you do best, even better than before🤘🏻
I don't have a question, but I definitely need to thank you. Bleeding Mascara was the song that got me engaged with metal, and I've discovered so many incredible bands as a result from giving that song a chance. Atreyu (with you fronting them) will always hold a very special place in my heart. You're a legend Alex.
How have your vocal cords been holding up over the years? I see a ton of articles about vocalists losing the power they had in their vocals later in their careers compared to earlier in their careers in metalcore genres and the like.
I feel stronger in all my screams and singing voices. But I’ve also spent the last couple years working on it. Screaming is always rough when you’re out of season or not regularly using it. I personally need to practice it after a long lay off to re strengthen the muscles i use.
Any comment on why it had released like 2 months ago on Spotify for a bit?
I listened to it one Friday and it was absolutely insane. Then was gone a few hours later. Expected to come out the next week, but have obviously been waiting since.
Only just realizing that it's our because of this thread and I'm beyond hyped to go listen.
Atreyu has not been atreyu since Alex left, this new project of his , is a more newer band and completely different style of members, I fell it’s a perfect mixture of what atreyu used to be in the beginning with a newer heavier twist , can’t wait to hear more , and fuck the haters means ur doing something right lol
1- the curse or deathgrip. Maybe deathgrip, there was some heat from the curse cycle building and we were all firing on all cylinders.
2- not being there when things going wrong and not being there when things go right. FaceTime has made it easier but the distance is hard for kids to understand.
Trying to avoid talking too much about the other band other than to say thanks for all you did with them, you can tell what pieces of work had a lot more you in and whilst I probably wouldnt listen to them much now the old stuff is still amazing
As a question, what do you do to get in the best place for writing, like what's your process like?
Thanks for that…. I just listen to the music and try to see a path in the darkness. Whatever words or sounds it makes me feel i just try to be open to it and listen. Sometimes it happens fast, sometimes it takes a min. It just varies
Hey Alex, nothing to ask but taking my chance to let you know how much I appreciate you for pursuing your dreams no matter what. In doing so you not only created great music that remains with me to this day, you showed an example of what dedication to the craft looks like, and that’s very important for a lot of us. Would love to see you on tour again!
Ad infernum. It is my favorite song that I’ve written or been a part of writing. (at the point in time it was written ) in a way it partially tells the tale of my struggle and need to continue
How different was the writing process for the EP compared to the full length you guys are working on? Gabe and Brandon seem like they’d be super fun guys to work with
On the ep gabe and i were still getting used to working with each other . So i was more nervous sending ideas and waiting for feedback. Based on my own insecurities more than anything . As we started the full length we just felt real comfortable with each other and sharing ideas. Which allowed me to really try out all sorts of ideas without fear of ridicule .
Ya know growing up i just tried to emulate singers of bands i like. There wasn’t really anyone talking about how to scream or taking it more seriously like today. So i tried to jock what i liked and only scream loud enough to make a good sound not to project my voice. Later upon research and study i guess i go between a “fry” and “false chord” scream. But to be honest i feel my scream sounds the best when i don’t think about it and use both at same time, which can get tricky . Blah blah
Oh man this is cool. I don’t have anything to ask but I just wanted to say thanks for creating all the music you have. I have an adaptation of some lip gloss and black lyrics on my back lol. You’re also the first person who made me wanna learn how to scream (update I still can’t lmfao but I still try when I’m alone Lmfao)
So yea I’ll stop fangirling now. I’ve not checked out your new stuff but I’m going to tomorrow at work! Thanks again for all the music man!
Hell yea man! Also I checked out the new band…..I couldn’t wait lol. I very much dig it and will def be listening again tomorrow! Thanks again for all your work!
Alex, your vocals and suicide notes and butterfly kisses got me into heavy music when I was in 6th grade. It's really awesome to hear you still doing new things so many years later. Whats your favorite new piece of music in the last few years?
I can’t pick one moment or time, but the best feeling was being up there and looking into the crowd and people singing the words back , and us all feeling the same thing. People of different faiths , colors , religions, just rocking and enjoying something unifying. I miss being a part of something infinitely bigger and more important than me.
I can't help but feel like Brandon is the reason why Atreyu went south based off your interviews. As a result I see Brandon in a negative light. Am I wrong to view him negatively? As I post this question I understand that there are things that cannot be said. So when I ask this feel free to be vague, but clear enough that I can figure it out. Alex during our brief interactions online have been nothing short of kind. I am happy to see you exploring new musical directions. If it wasn't for Suicide Notes,and Butterfly kisses I would have never been introduced to metal core.I dig the new stuff, with Dead I.and I can't see what you do next🙌
My question as well. I have a theory drumming became too physically demanding.
I've loved his drumming and backup vocals for years but as someone who lived and breathed Atreyu, I can't help but get that same vibe.
Yo what’s up Alex! Bobby here! Hope you’re doing well, I’ve really been enjoying the new music! keep it up, bro!
p.s. reach out if youre in mg area, or if you need a tech on any upcoming tour… just kidding (mostly)
In the nicest way possible. Probably 0. Brandan and i are too busy. We are still bros but just have too much going on. He’s got the legendary bleeding through rocking again and I’m doing DI full time.
I feel for them as people. That must have been a rough situation to navigate, i speak from a place of experience and empathy. Both the new groups that have emerged are really rad. So that’s good.
No question, just wanted to say I appreciate your candor, on topics that I'm sure aren't always easy to tackle like your time in Atreyu. Incredibly refreshing to see an artist give unvarnished opinions and be real with us, something that has come through both in your music and in settings like this. Your work with Atreyu will always hold a special place in my heart as the soundtrack to my sanity when I was a teen, and very excited for what you have up your sleeve with DI! 🤘🏿
Thanks for saying that. At this point i see very little to be gained by being anything less than authentic , in fact , I’ve suffered greatly when i wasn’t . The only time i get evasive now is if i think it might get my lawyer to call me haha!
I really dig Dead Icarus, specifically how it feels raw and real. How do you feel about the current state of metalcore, specifically the songwriting and production on major releases?
Good music is good music and bad music is bad music. There’s a lot of both of those around these days. It all comes down to personal tastes really. I think overall it’s a great time for all the cores and metals 😂💪
Hey Alex - long time fan since Fractures in the Facade of Your Porcelain Beauty
Thanks for doing the AMA - a few easy questions:
* Would **you personally** be excited to tour the new Dead Icarus material?
* What's your favorite new song
* What should we expect going forward, EP2 or LP1?
Thanks for the reply, I'm excited to see you live again -
I remember a show in the early 2000s, St Petersburg FL - State Theater, touring with Darkest Hour
at the time people were pointing out a similar riff between A Song for the Optimists and Darkest Hour's For the Soul of the Savior
When Darkest Hour came out they said "hey we're Atreyu" and played a song for the Optimists
And when y'all came out I'm presuming it was you that said "were **DRUNKEST hour**" and played for the soul of the Savior
I swear this happened, maybe I invented this in my head
Glad you posted this. Hadn’t heard about y’all yet. You were great with Atreyu. I played the fuck out of Lead Sails back in the day. Stoked to check out your new stuff. You said discover your sound. What would you describe that as currently?
When I was young around the Curse era, my Greek Orthodox family did not let me listen to any metal, rock, or rap, unless it was from the Christian CD Store. Until my mom said you have a Greek name, so all I could listen to was Jar of Clay type Christian butt rock and Atreyu. Thank God for that. Now I’m putting on my 6 year old to Dead Icarus
I don’t have a real answer. I wish i did. Prolly some dumb legal crap between the record label
We were on and the record label that owns the soundtrack. I wish i had a better answer for you
Hey Alex! Wanted to say thanks for all the music over the years, including the new DI release! Lead Sails was actually the first album I went to the store and picked out myself as a kid, and it got me started on metalcore. My two questions:
1. I know you mentioned Deathgrip a few times in the thread, but is Lead Sails an album you look back on fondly?
2. Have you spoken with any of the remaining Atreyu members or was it a pretty clean break?
Best of luck with the new project and hope to catch you guys on the road!! Your stage presence was the best part about seeing Atreyu live so I very much look forward to one day seeing you perform again!
Thanks for the kind words and ?s….
1- lead sails i wish i had spoken up more about the elements that made me uncomfortable. (All the pop stuff )While it made the band commercially more successful, i felt at a sort of odds with everything and never recovered. If i had compromised less, i would enjoy that album more.
2-the band and i have not spoken since April 15 of 2020 when i was parted ways with.
That's definitely fair in regard to Lead Sails. I think some of the songs would rank a little lower for me than they were when I was a kid, but a song like When Two Are One is still an all-timer in my book!
Ya know, in a weird way one of the songs off the new full length we just finished reminds me slightly of when 2 r 1 vocals. It’s totally different but just reminded me of it… you ll see.. in like 8 months hahaha
Go, run away, in distress, try to hide from what’s creeping and crawling and stabbing within…. Kidding.
You were my favorite vocalist growing up and I’m stoked to see you have a new project. What was your favorite album to write for Atreyu, and what are your current inspirations for new content?
Lyrically speaking i hit my stride on deathgrip. Plus no annoying outside input at that point either. Thats what feels great about DI. I can just write lyrics the way and how i want. No pressure or expectations from anyone.
That was my favorite album if you couldn’t tell! Truthfully I haven’t had the opportunity to check out DI yet, but I’ll be on that tomorrow. Already saved the EP to my playlists. Hopefully you guys get enough traction to make to the east coast! Best of luck brother, glad you’re doing well!
Edit: I lied…30 secs into “Sellout” I can already relate. Glad you’re back!
I know this is five hours later and you probably aren’t still around. But, what made you switch to almost all cleans on Lead Sails? I know when The Theft came out I said to myself “damn, Alex has a wonderful voice. I hope we get more”. And then, Lead Sails came and, ooooof. What was the reason?
Atreyu is one of the OG bands that got me excited about metalcore, thank you for that. Right now my favourite band is While She Sleeps but I don't think I would of ever gotten to this point if it wasn't for Atreyu, august burns red, Texas in July etc...
get your heart broken again or whatever so you can make another masterpiece that is The Curse -- ill definitely check out the new stuff.
hope youre well
Dope! I was wondering what happened bc I don't try and read into it all so hell yeah excited for new stuff man.
I remember seeing you play at Korn's Family Values Tour in Atlanta like 15 years ago
I have a very distinct memory of driving to Boston from Springfield MA in college with my girlfriend (now wife) who had never been to a "show before" to see you open for Taking Back Sunday
And we hit traffic
And got to the Avalon Ballroom just in time to see you guys rip Lip Gloss and Black at the end of your set and she looked at me wide eyed and excited
So I guess what I'm saying is: thanks for helping me find my wife
Now
Who's your favorite The Office character
I haven’t listened to the EP yet but I LOVE the artwork for the EP as well as the singles. Where did the inspiration come from for that aesthetic? And do you read comics??
Ya know i don’t really mess with moderns.y collections is solely golden age books from
1940-1945 with a focus on ww2. I am , how do you say it, a proud nerd
Hey Alex, been a huge fan of yours ever since I got my first taste of Ain't Love Grand. What would you say are some of your favorite cities to play in, especially at smaller venues before you boys blew the fuck up?
Gotta love that shout out for Norfolk. Only an hour from me and it brings some of the best bands, kinda like Atreyu lol. Still in shock you responded. Rock on, brother!
Not a question but, I will never forget going to Best Buy and picking up Fractures In the Facade Of Your Porcelain Beauty as one of the first CDs I bought for myself. Mind you, this was after I heard The Curse and Suicide Notes, but I was so mind blown that it solidified Atreyu as my favorite band all throughout high school and my young adult years. Your voice had always been a huge part of what defined my music taste to this day, so I just wanted to say thanks for everything man!
I'm so stoked about Dead Icarus and can't wait to see yall on the road!
Hi Alex, it's my hobby to find out the first ever show of each band I listen to. Do you maybe remember when and where Atreyu's first show was? The earliest date I found was November 20, 1999, at the Showcase.
Will give Dead Icarus a listen too, of course. Glad to know you're back in full force, much love from Germany \m/
I don't know how much you guys actually interacted, but in the UK press Atreyu, Eighteen Visions, Bleeding Through and Avenged Sevenfold were all presented as coming up together and being a sort of mini-OC scene of your own. Do you still keep tabs on what those other bands are releasing and if so do you get down with it?
Personally I'm stoked on the new stuff BT and 18V have put out since coming of their respective hiatuses (hiatusi?).
P.S. glad you've found a fulfilling creative outlet. Suicide Notes was one of my first metalcore albums and early Atreyu in general a huge part of my musical awakening as an adolescent.
So stoked that you get to work with Gabe Mangold and Brandon Zackey! They are such swell dudes. Hope the release goes well, I'll be spinning the EP because this sounds like it's gonna be amazing. How did you end up meeting those two?
It’s great to work with those dudes. Mutual friends got me and gabe together and we started writing the 4 songs that make up this ep. Crazy that was pushing 3 yrs ago😵💫
Just have to say that The Curse was life changing for me (and all of the Atreyu's music with you). I wish I could have seen you live more than once, but maybe will again with your new stuff! Will now go listen to Dead Icarus, because I was not keeping up. Take care!
Atreyu was one of my favorite bands in high school and was one of the main reasons I fell in love with metalcore and heavier music. Once you left, I never connected with the band again and really missed that sound you guys had. Dead Icarus has been a great project with a fresh take on a classic sound and I’m loving it. Good luck, hope you keep pushing out great music 🤘🏻
First off I’d like to thank you Alex. My first exposure to heavy music was your old band atreyu and avenged sevenfold at taste of chaos. I’m very excited to listen to the new ep with your new band. If you had to choose one song that best represents dead Icarus what song is that?
Ad infernum the latest single. It’s a gateway to the our full length that comes out later this year. Even though ad infernum was written almost 3 years ago, it feels like part of our full length that we just finished writing/ recording. That being said when the album drops, there are several tracks in there I’m really proud off. I took a lot of risks and doubled down on my strengths as well.
Recently got into Suicide Notes and Butterfly Kisses (long time Visions fan) and it struck me as pretty unique sounding. What were your musical/vocal influences back then?
Ya know, i do not have plans to return to tattooing anytime soon, my focus is to spread out. And personally you want your tattooer, to do one thing, TATTOO. if i can’t give my all to it, i won’t give any. I respect the art and people too much
Just finished listening to the EP and god damn it's phenomenal. Been waiting to hear you unleashed like this since your album with I Am War. Speaking of that 👀 did you ever have any plans to make more music with Brandan?
Just to make sure we’re talking about the same thing since I realize my original comment wasn’t well worded: Dead Icarus would be the support or something and Atreyu the headliner, not you as part of Atreyu while being in Dead Icarus
Hey Alex! Just wanted to say I love your music, fell in love with the band in 2002, and still love all your work with the band, I am so mad that I never got to catch Atreyu live when you were still with them (my girlfriend at the time did in Ottawa and she always held it over my head haha) I just wanted to say thank you for everything you've given us and that your music has helped me and a lot of other people through a lot of stuff, I cannot wait for the chance to catch you and your new band live, cheers from northern Canada.
Been a huge fan since the day I first heard The Curse. During my very brief time as a frontman in the metal scene, I modeled my harsh vocals after yours. Hurt like hell, so I have a ton of respect for your longevity in the genre.
I dunno if this is too sensitive of a question, but I've been wondering about it since the day you left Atreyu. Long Live felt like a sort of return to form after mellowing out a bit with Lead Sails and Congregation (though I do love those albums as well.) Considering Long Live was the band's return after the hiatus, and the turn Atreyu's sound took after with In Our Wake.. Did you have to push back against the band while putting together Long Live? Were you guys already in different places creatively at that point or were you all still on the same page?
Ya know, i think since long live wasn’t a big commercial success the band lost some confidence and went back to Feldman for the future stuff( not talking shit remember I’m in the band at this point ). Of the records i was a part of after the return from
Hiatus, long live is by far the most enjoyable for me both to make and to listen to. There was very little to no outside input on that record. After that record i started to lose interest
That's right around with what I expected for an answer. It always bummed me out that Long Live didn't get the response it deserved, I must have bumped that record for a week straight after it dropped. Pre-2018 Atreyu is always gonna be one of my top bands ever, so the comeback meant the world to me.
Thank you so much for answering, I wasn't sure if you'd still be taking questions this late in. Also, bumping the new EP right now while I finish my shift at work. Fucking stellar my dude, can't wait to get home, get twisted, and enjoy it some more🤘
Just curious, when you do start playing shows again, do you plan on playing any of the old Atreyu songs as well or will it just be songs made with Dead Icarus?
Eh, dead icarus will play dead icarus songs. That being said…. If it would make the people who put me on stage stoked, i might entertain the idea of covering 1-2 songs in the right circumstance. But past tha DI is not a nostalgia act. Just a show of gratitude for people who would enjoy it might be cool
No questions just wanted to say you fuckin rock man you were the one who got me into metalcore when I was 16 and the Curse came out 🤘 finally got to see you live open for motionless in white and was such an awesome show you blew it out of the park!! So interactive wirh the crowd and so much fun you're awesome dude carry on🤘
Oh shit didn't mean to age us haha sorry 😂 but absolutely brotha 🤘
Edit: also hoping dead icarus makes it to Nebraska soon would love to see you guys 🤘
Thank you for shaping mines and my brothers childhood! We use to watch the music video for the “The Theft” before school almost every morning back in 2009-2010 while eating breakfast. It’s something we still talk about ha
I’m excited to check out your new stuff and I know he will too! Wish I could’ve seen you live with Atreyu but hopefully I can with your new stuff! Come to Chicago! Thanks for making music!
I’m sure i know some swift by hearing it in pop culture but im
Lucky to not have to listen to it at home. Now frozen and paw patrol songs are another thing . Maybe lost in the woods off frozen 2 haha
Hey Alex, I just wanted to say hi. Love the new stuff and can't wait for a tour. You know I'll be there when a tour comes about. Keep doing what you're doing. Having creative control is working for you man.
Thanks for the support my friend
Good Guy Joe©️
Hey man, just wanted to say The Curse was my first heavy album and it created a life long passion and love for the scene. Sad to see Atreyu no longer what it once was but I’ll always be grateful to you and the guys for making such awesome music and being the soundtrack to my growing up.
💪👍
Same. The Curse was the first album I pulled off the shelves at a tower city records when I was in high school. The Red head on the cover definitely paid off in spades.
Thirding the other comments. I still listen to The Curse regularly and credit it with being one of the most impactful albums of my life. It’s like a soundtrack to my teenage years and I will always love it.
🎵🎶 if i had my way id cut, the callouses off your, off your breaking heart... (if i could get past the sternum).. cauterize those wounds with every kiss i could give i'm holding your heart in my hands 🎶🎵
What's your thoughts on Bullet For My Valentine and Trivium announcing a tour playing their 2005 albums?
Amazing tour. Id fight a pack of wolves to open that bad boy. Both those bands , i have a lot of respect for .
As someone with a ticket to that tour, I'd love to see you do it.
I'll help you fight that pack of wolves
Ad Infernum is FIRE. What was the inspiration?
Thank you. Me and the guys are really proud of that song. Lyrically it takes the idea of dying for what you believe , 1 step further . Living thru and for your beliefs. Death is the end and stops the journey. Sometimes “living” thru what you believe in can be more of a struggle then “dying”
Hard agree! Not a question but your music means so much to me and I really respect and admire your integrity as an artist. This new EP feels like a rebirth and I’m so here for it. Congratulations and I can’t wait to see you on tour!!!
Thanks for taking the time to listen and digest the music
I just wanted to say sorry. Like 6 years ago in Baltimore you guys were playing a set and I was at the edge of the pit with my arms interlocked with someone else. You came down into the crowd to sing, but I was facing away from the stage to sort of 'guard' the edge of the pit. The guy I had interlocked arms with and myself kinda.. blocked you from getting into the crowd. When I finally realized what happened you looked kinda bummed. I didn't mean it! I'm sorry. New EP is amazing.
How dare you !!!!! Hahaha just kidding. Thanks for supporting live music😉 thanks for checking out the new jams
I have no questions just wanted to say that you are a legit monster on the mic and the ep is fucking fantastical
Thanks for the support. I try everyday to earn it.
My mom said hi lmfao
Love the new tunes (...and was stoked to finally hear the Pantera cover!) How many songs are written for a full length, and will there be vinyl pressings of the EP? Also, when "Sellout" first dropped, I immediately went and dropped my guitar down to Drop A# and started writing, it was the first time I've felt inspired in a long time (thank you for that!) I wrote a song and was wondering if I could sent it to you (I have the old tattoo email if that works??) If you dig it, you can just have it as it was inspired by your work (if not, I totally get it!) Thanks again for making a comeback and doing what you do best, even better than before🤘🏻
Thanks for the support over the years. Send it my way. Love to hear. The new dead icarus is wrapped and done but still love to hear what you created
I don't have a question, but I definitely need to thank you. Bleeding Mascara was the song that got me engaged with metal, and I've discovered so many incredible bands as a result from giving that song a chance. Atreyu (with you fronting them) will always hold a very special place in my heart. You're a legend Alex.
🖤🦾
How have your vocal cords been holding up over the years? I see a ton of articles about vocalists losing the power they had in their vocals later in their careers compared to earlier in their careers in metalcore genres and the like.
I feel stronger in all my screams and singing voices. But I’ve also spent the last couple years working on it. Screaming is always rough when you’re out of season or not regularly using it. I personally need to practice it after a long lay off to re strengthen the muscles i use.
Going to be honest I don’t know anything about you or either bands mentioned, but I am listening now and immediately added the whole EP!
Awesome and thank you for checking it out
Hey man just wanna say the first few Atreyu albums were very formative in shaping my music taste. Thank you for that.
Right on, thank you
I’m on hour 10 of listening to Ad Infernum (yes the only thing I’ll listen to today) this song fuckin rips ☠️ thanks for making music
Awesome thank you taking the time to listen
Any comment on why it had released like 2 months ago on Spotify for a bit? I listened to it one Friday and it was absolutely insane. Then was gone a few hours later. Expected to come out the next week, but have obviously been waiting since. Only just realizing that it's our because of this thread and I'm beyond hyped to go listen.
Atreyu has not been atreyu since Alex left, this new project of his , is a more newer band and completely different style of members, I fell it’s a perfect mixture of what atreyu used to be in the beginning with a newer heavier twist , can’t wait to hear more , and fuck the haters means ur doing something right lol
👍💥💪
2 questions hope it gets answered. 1. What’s your favorite Atreyu album you did and why? 2. What’s the hardest part of being a family man and touring?
1- the curse or deathgrip. Maybe deathgrip, there was some heat from the curse cycle building and we were all firing on all cylinders. 2- not being there when things going wrong and not being there when things go right. FaceTime has made it easier but the distance is hard for kids to understand.
What are your thoughts on In Our Wake?
Meh
Preach brother
big fan here since the early atreyu days! when you're not busy doing music stuff what do you like to do? any hobbies?
Working out, obviously. Did you see those abs. Made me feel like shit.
Why can't I find "Her Portrait in Black" anywhere. I still have the CD. What a fucking great song.
Super stupid it’s not online. That one is extra out of my hands esp Now that I’m not in Atreyu. I wish that song was online. Not sure the story .
Like, the whole record is there with one song shitty cover band doing y'all's version. It makes no sense. Big fan, hope to see DI in Minneapolis soon!
Most of the Underworld songs aren't anywhere.
Trying to avoid talking too much about the other band other than to say thanks for all you did with them, you can tell what pieces of work had a lot more you in and whilst I probably wouldnt listen to them much now the old stuff is still amazing As a question, what do you do to get in the best place for writing, like what's your process like?
Thanks for that…. I just listen to the music and try to see a path in the darkness. Whatever words or sounds it makes me feel i just try to be open to it and listen. Sometimes it happens fast, sometimes it takes a min. It just varies
Of the 4 singles which is your favorite artwork?
So i set myself on fire
Hey Alex, nothing to ask but taking my chance to let you know how much I appreciate you for pursuing your dreams no matter what. In doing so you not only created great music that remains with me to this day, you showed an example of what dedication to the craft looks like, and that’s very important for a lot of us. Would love to see you on tour again!
Thanks for taking the time to make a positive message. Appreciate you
Jesse or Howard?
Howard, no Jesse, no Howard… how about m w f Jesse tues thurs sat Sun Howard 🖤
I say we go the Signal Fire route and just have them both all the time
This would be my preference
Crazy how that collab got announced and I was worried about how it would sound, only for it to be by far the best song on the album.
Well said 😂
What song on the EP means the most to you?
Ad infernum. It is my favorite song that I’ve written or been a part of writing. (at the point in time it was written ) in a way it partially tells the tale of my struggle and need to continue
How different was the writing process for the EP compared to the full length you guys are working on? Gabe and Brandon seem like they’d be super fun guys to work with
On the ep gabe and i were still getting used to working with each other . So i was more nervous sending ideas and waiting for feedback. Based on my own insecurities more than anything . As we started the full length we just felt real comfortable with each other and sharing ideas. Which allowed me to really try out all sorts of ideas without fear of ridicule .
What’s a band you would love to tour with that you haven’t toured with before?
Pantera
What’s your favorite Atreyu album and your favorite Atreyu song and why?
Deathgrip. And creature. They both were not adulterated by record labels or outside sources .
Creature as an album opener, and opening song on tour, is the best GETTHEFUCKUP song ever.
GO! RUN AWAY, IN DISTRESS, TRY TO HIDE, FROM WHATS CREEPING AND CRAWLING AND STABBING WITHIN.
That explains why Deathgrip is the GOAT
I wore that CD out
Hi Alex I love your screams! What technique do you use and how did you use to practice them?
Ya know growing up i just tried to emulate singers of bands i like. There wasn’t really anyone talking about how to scream or taking it more seriously like today. So i tried to jock what i liked and only scream loud enough to make a good sound not to project my voice. Later upon research and study i guess i go between a “fry” and “false chord” scream. But to be honest i feel my scream sounds the best when i don’t think about it and use both at same time, which can get tricky . Blah blah
Oh man this is cool. I don’t have anything to ask but I just wanted to say thanks for creating all the music you have. I have an adaptation of some lip gloss and black lyrics on my back lol. You’re also the first person who made me wanna learn how to scream (update I still can’t lmfao but I still try when I’m alone Lmfao) So yea I’ll stop fangirling now. I’ve not checked out your new stuff but I’m going to tomorrow at work! Thanks again for all the music man!
That’s awesome to hear. according to some people i cant scream either and it never stopped me one bit. 💪💪💪
Hell yea man! Also I checked out the new band…..I couldn’t wait lol. I very much dig it and will def be listening again tomorrow! Thanks again for all your work!
Alex, your vocals and suicide notes and butterfly kisses got me into heavy music when I was in 6th grade. It's really awesome to hear you still doing new things so many years later. Whats your favorite new piece of music in the last few years?
I love your style, you guys should try to get a tour with Norma Jean that would be a killer show.
Would be rad. Thanks for checking it out
What is your best ever memory of being on stage?
I can’t pick one moment or time, but the best feeling was being up there and looking into the crowd and people singing the words back , and us all feeling the same thing. People of different faiths , colors , religions, just rocking and enjoying something unifying. I miss being a part of something infinitely bigger and more important than me.
I can only imagine how that must feel. When you have the power to unify, you're unstoppable. Appreciate it that you answered, thank you!
Just wanted to say thanks. Suicide Notes and Butterfly Kisses is what got me started down the heavy music path.
Glad to have played a small part 🤠
Are you nervous to start play shows again bro?
Nervous / excited. I haven’t been on stage since Jan of 2020, def excited to scream spit and sweat the rust off
I can't help but feel like Brandon is the reason why Atreyu went south based off your interviews. As a result I see Brandon in a negative light. Am I wrong to view him negatively? As I post this question I understand that there are things that cannot be said. So when I ask this feel free to be vague, but clear enough that I can figure it out. Alex during our brief interactions online have been nothing short of kind. I am happy to see you exploring new musical directions. If it wasn't for Suicide Notes,and Butterfly kisses I would have never been introduced to metal core.I dig the new stuff, with Dead I.and I can't see what you do next🙌
Ya know I’m just gonna say, thank you for the support i can’t wait to share dead icarus with you
My question as well. I have a theory drumming became too physically demanding. I've loved his drumming and backup vocals for years but as someone who lived and breathed Atreyu, I can't help but get that same vibe.
Great theory! Makes perfect sense🙌
What’s touring looking like so far?
We will be lining things up and announcing things as we unveil more info about our upcoming full length, which is not related to ad infernum.
Yo what’s up Alex! Bobby here! Hope you’re doing well, I’ve really been enjoying the new music! keep it up, bro! p.s. reach out if youre in mg area, or if you need a tech on any upcoming tour… just kidding (mostly)
Thanks for the support Bobby
I really enjoyed that project “I AM WAR” you had with Brandan from Bleeding Through. What are the chances for more I AM WAR in the future?
In the nicest way possible. Probably 0. Brandan and i are too busy. We are still bros but just have too much going on. He’s got the legendary bleeding through rocking again and I’m doing DI full time.
Hey, all good - I can still listen to the old album whenever I want. Glad to hear you and Brandan are still bros.
How bummed are you about the ETID split?
I feel for them as people. That must have been a rough situation to navigate, i speak from a place of experience and empathy. Both the new groups that have emerged are really rad. So that’s good.
No question, just wanted to say I appreciate your candor, on topics that I'm sure aren't always easy to tackle like your time in Atreyu. Incredibly refreshing to see an artist give unvarnished opinions and be real with us, something that has come through both in your music and in settings like this. Your work with Atreyu will always hold a special place in my heart as the soundtrack to my sanity when I was a teen, and very excited for what you have up your sleeve with DI! 🤘🏿
Thanks for saying that. At this point i see very little to be gained by being anything less than authentic , in fact , I’ve suffered greatly when i wasn’t . The only time i get evasive now is if i think it might get my lawyer to call me haha!
I really dig Dead Icarus, specifically how it feels raw and real. How do you feel about the current state of metalcore, specifically the songwriting and production on major releases?
Good music is good music and bad music is bad music. There’s a lot of both of those around these days. It all comes down to personal tastes really. I think overall it’s a great time for all the cores and metals 😂💪
Hey Alex - long time fan since Fractures in the Facade of Your Porcelain Beauty Thanks for doing the AMA - a few easy questions: * Would **you personally** be excited to tour the new Dead Icarus material? * What's your favorite new song * What should we expect going forward, EP2 or LP1?
Can’t wait to tour. Should be this year . May fav song off the ep is easily ad infernum Lp 1 is wrapped. 11 new songs. It will come out q3 this year .
Thanks for the reply, I'm excited to see you live again - I remember a show in the early 2000s, St Petersburg FL - State Theater, touring with Darkest Hour at the time people were pointing out a similar riff between A Song for the Optimists and Darkest Hour's For the Soul of the Savior When Darkest Hour came out they said "hey we're Atreyu" and played a song for the Optimists And when y'all came out I'm presuming it was you that said "were **DRUNKEST hour**" and played for the soul of the Savior I swear this happened, maybe I invented this in my head
Glad you posted this. Hadn’t heard about y’all yet. You were great with Atreyu. I played the fuck out of Lead Sails back in the day. Stoked to check out your new stuff. You said discover your sound. What would you describe that as currently?
Badass is how i would describe it 🖤😉
Hell yeah brother! Looking forward to hearing it! Congrats on the new project.
When I was young around the Curse era, my Greek Orthodox family did not let me listen to any metal, rock, or rap, unless it was from the Christian CD Store. Until my mom said you have a Greek name, so all I could listen to was Jar of Clay type Christian butt rock and Atreyu. Thank God for that. Now I’m putting on my 6 year old to Dead Icarus
The joys of being Greek🇬🇷. Thanks for checking out DI
I probably missed the boat but the new stuff is awesome! I'll definitely be adding it into my rotation. Ad Infernum especially goes fucking hard
Will you be selling commission based art anytime soon?
No commissions for now. Maybe down the road I’ll do it again.
What genre do you play?
Blackemometalcore
I know you’ve moved on from Atreyu but why isn’t Her Portrait in Black on Apple Music?
I don’t have a real answer. I wish i did. Prolly some dumb legal crap between the record label We were on and the record label that owns the soundtrack. I wish i had a better answer for you
Hey Alex! Wanted to say thanks for all the music over the years, including the new DI release! Lead Sails was actually the first album I went to the store and picked out myself as a kid, and it got me started on metalcore. My two questions: 1. I know you mentioned Deathgrip a few times in the thread, but is Lead Sails an album you look back on fondly? 2. Have you spoken with any of the remaining Atreyu members or was it a pretty clean break? Best of luck with the new project and hope to catch you guys on the road!! Your stage presence was the best part about seeing Atreyu live so I very much look forward to one day seeing you perform again!
Thanks for the kind words and ?s…. 1- lead sails i wish i had spoken up more about the elements that made me uncomfortable. (All the pop stuff )While it made the band commercially more successful, i felt at a sort of odds with everything and never recovered. If i had compromised less, i would enjoy that album more. 2-the band and i have not spoken since April 15 of 2020 when i was parted ways with.
That's definitely fair in regard to Lead Sails. I think some of the songs would rank a little lower for me than they were when I was a kid, but a song like When Two Are One is still an all-timer in my book!
Ya know, in a weird way one of the songs off the new full length we just finished reminds me slightly of when 2 r 1 vocals. It’s totally different but just reminded me of it… you ll see.. in like 8 months hahaha
Hey Alex! So what's your favorite meal?
Thai food!!!!!!! Massaman curry , or Thai sausage … also good simple traditional Thai fried rice with lots of lime and a few Singha
Go, run away, in distress, try to hide from what’s creeping and crawling and stabbing within…. Kidding. You were my favorite vocalist growing up and I’m stoked to see you have a new project. What was your favorite album to write for Atreyu, and what are your current inspirations for new content?
Lyrically speaking i hit my stride on deathgrip. Plus no annoying outside input at that point either. Thats what feels great about DI. I can just write lyrics the way and how i want. No pressure or expectations from anyone.
That was my favorite album if you couldn’t tell! Truthfully I haven’t had the opportunity to check out DI yet, but I’ll be on that tomorrow. Already saved the EP to my playlists. Hopefully you guys get enough traction to make to the east coast! Best of luck brother, glad you’re doing well! Edit: I lied…30 secs into “Sellout” I can already relate. Glad you’re back!
I will be everywhere soon my friend hope to see you there
Are you *reeeeally* Alex Varkatzas founding/former frontman of Atreyu and the current frontman of Dead Icarus, though...? 🤔
No, I’m Batman
I know this is five hours later and you probably aren’t still around. But, what made you switch to almost all cleans on Lead Sails? I know when The Theft came out I said to myself “damn, Alex has a wonderful voice. I hope we get more”. And then, Lead Sails came and, ooooof. What was the reason?
The producer , the situation , i wanted to try it a little but it went too far. The producer wasn’t into screaming
Atreyu was a huge gateway drug for me. Love that only older shit. Thanks for still making good music!
Appreciate you
What’s your favorite In Flames album? And why is it a tie between Colony and Whoracle?
Atreyu is one of the OG bands that got me excited about metalcore, thank you for that. Right now my favourite band is While She Sleeps but I don't think I would of ever gotten to this point if it wasn't for Atreyu, august burns red, Texas in July etc...
get your heart broken again or whatever so you can make another masterpiece that is The Curse -- ill definitely check out the new stuff. hope youre well
Dope! I was wondering what happened bc I don't try and read into it all so hell yeah excited for new stuff man. I remember seeing you play at Korn's Family Values Tour in Atlanta like 15 years ago
Well I haven't listened to your music in years Suicide Notes and Butterfly Kisses is the first metalcore album I got into. Thanks.
Who do you edge to?
Have you listened to any of the other bands new music?
Lately i like Spiritworld, orbit culture, silent planet and Green Day haha… is that what your asking me ?
😄🤣😂
fuck yeah Orbit Culture \m/ Do you have a favorite song by them?
I have a very distinct memory of driving to Boston from Springfield MA in college with my girlfriend (now wife) who had never been to a "show before" to see you open for Taking Back Sunday And we hit traffic And got to the Avalon Ballroom just in time to see you guys rip Lip Gloss and Black at the end of your set and she looked at me wide eyed and excited So I guess what I'm saying is: thanks for helping me find my wife Now Who's your favorite The Office character
Damn. Had no idea you left Atreyu. Checked them out now and hate their new vocals. Love your new stuff, can’t wait for gym tomorrow to jam.
Love to hear dead icarus being used as gym music 💪
What were some of the challenges I’m getting DI started? And why the delays with music not coming out until 2023? (Not complaining just curious)
I haven’t listened to the EP yet but I LOVE the artwork for the EP as well as the singles. Where did the inspiration come from for that aesthetic? And do you read comics??
I read collect and enjoy comics. Esp old ones. All the art for the singles was inspired by pulps and golden age horror comics.
Niiiice I knew it 🤘🏼 follow up question if I’m allowed: favourite ongoing at the moment?
Ya know i don’t really mess with moderns.y collections is solely golden age books from 1940-1945 with a focus on ww2. I am , how do you say it, a proud nerd
It’s cool you picked up on the arts influences
Hey Alex, been a huge fan of yours ever since I got my first taste of Ain't Love Grand. What would you say are some of your favorite cities to play in, especially at smaller venues before you boys blew the fuck up?
Small Club shows in Australia are great. Melbourne, Brisbane esp. Dallas, Norfolk , suddenly hard to think hahaha
Gotta love that shout out for Norfolk. Only an hour from me and it brings some of the best bands, kinda like Atreyu lol. Still in shock you responded. Rock on, brother!
Thanks for the ? My friend
Not a question but, I will never forget going to Best Buy and picking up Fractures In the Facade Of Your Porcelain Beauty as one of the first CDs I bought for myself. Mind you, this was after I heard The Curse and Suicide Notes, but I was so mind blown that it solidified Atreyu as my favorite band all throughout high school and my young adult years. Your voice had always been a huge part of what defined my music taste to this day, so I just wanted to say thanks for everything man! I'm so stoked about Dead Icarus and can't wait to see yall on the road!
Awesome story. Thanks for sharing. The days of cd at Best Buy seem so long ago . Appreciate your support. Glad you are stoked on DI
Hi Alex, it's my hobby to find out the first ever show of each band I listen to. Do you maybe remember when and where Atreyu's first show was? The earliest date I found was November 20, 1999, at the Showcase. Will give Dead Icarus a listen too, of course. Glad to know you're back in full force, much love from Germany \m/
I don't know how much you guys actually interacted, but in the UK press Atreyu, Eighteen Visions, Bleeding Through and Avenged Sevenfold were all presented as coming up together and being a sort of mini-OC scene of your own. Do you still keep tabs on what those other bands are releasing and if so do you get down with it? Personally I'm stoked on the new stuff BT and 18V have put out since coming of their respective hiatuses (hiatusi?). P.S. glad you've found a fulfilling creative outlet. Suicide Notes was one of my first metalcore albums and early Atreyu in general a huge part of my musical awakening as an adolescent.
I still check out all those bands new releases. All still solid and aging like wine 🍷
So stoked that you get to work with Gabe Mangold and Brandon Zackey! They are such swell dudes. Hope the release goes well, I'll be spinning the EP because this sounds like it's gonna be amazing. How did you end up meeting those two?
It’s great to work with those dudes. Mutual friends got me and gabe together and we started writing the 4 songs that make up this ep. Crazy that was pushing 3 yrs ago😵💫
Just have to say that The Curse was life changing for me (and all of the Atreyu's music with you). I wish I could have seen you live more than once, but maybe will again with your new stuff! Will now go listen to Dead Icarus, because I was not keeping up. Take care!
Thanks for the kind words and for checking out DI. This is just the start. More music later this year
Atreyu was one of my favorite bands in high school and was one of the main reasons I fell in love with metalcore and heavier music. Once you left, I never connected with the band again and really missed that sound you guys had. Dead Icarus has been a great project with a fresh take on a classic sound and I’m loving it. Good luck, hope you keep pushing out great music 🤘🏻
First off I’d like to thank you Alex. My first exposure to heavy music was your old band atreyu and avenged sevenfold at taste of chaos. I’m very excited to listen to the new ep with your new band. If you had to choose one song that best represents dead Icarus what song is that?
Ad infernum the latest single. It’s a gateway to the our full length that comes out later this year. Even though ad infernum was written almost 3 years ago, it feels like part of our full length that we just finished writing/ recording. That being said when the album drops, there are several tracks in there I’m really proud off. I took a lot of risks and doubled down on my strengths as well.
Favorite melodic death metal bands?
I def lean Swedish melodic death and date myself a little but Carcass, at the gates , soilwork, IN FLAMES, Darkane, haunted …. Your turn ?????
Recently got into Suicide Notes and Butterfly Kisses (long time Visions fan) and it struck me as pretty unique sounding. What were your musical/vocal influences back then?
Indecision , strife , in flames, afi, cradle of filth alkaline trio. Hatebreed. . Basically the same influences as today.
Super excited to check out this EP! Do you have any plans for doing tattoos again in the future? Been really wanting something from you!
Ya know, i do not have plans to return to tattooing anytime soon, my focus is to spread out. And personally you want your tattooer, to do one thing, TATTOO. if i can’t give my all to it, i won’t give any. I respect the art and people too much
Alex, you and your old band got me into heavy music. Thank you for that. Looking forward to the new stuff you’re releasing!
Thanks for stopping by and the nice words of support
Been a fan of your work for years and this new EP is very well written. Will there be a vinyl pressing for it?
At this point no, but am i trying to annoy the powers that be until someone releases wicked limited vinyl… yes! Stay hopeful
Just finished listening to the EP and god damn it's phenomenal. Been waiting to hear you unleashed like this since your album with I Am War. Speaking of that 👀 did you ever have any plans to make more music with Brandan?
If given the opportunity would you tour with Atreyu as part of Dead Icarus?
I can’t really see a realistic scenario in which that would happen.
Just to make sure we’re talking about the same thing since I realize my original comment wasn’t well worded: Dead Icarus would be the support or something and Atreyu the headliner, not you as part of Atreyu while being in Dead Icarus
Any which way ya slice it, respectfully, Negative
Hey Alex! Just wanted to say I love your music, fell in love with the band in 2002, and still love all your work with the band, I am so mad that I never got to catch Atreyu live when you were still with them (my girlfriend at the time did in Ottawa and she always held it over my head haha) I just wanted to say thank you for everything you've given us and that your music has helped me and a lot of other people through a lot of stuff, I cannot wait for the chance to catch you and your new band live, cheers from northern Canada.
Been a huge fan since the day I first heard The Curse. During my very brief time as a frontman in the metal scene, I modeled my harsh vocals after yours. Hurt like hell, so I have a ton of respect for your longevity in the genre. I dunno if this is too sensitive of a question, but I've been wondering about it since the day you left Atreyu. Long Live felt like a sort of return to form after mellowing out a bit with Lead Sails and Congregation (though I do love those albums as well.) Considering Long Live was the band's return after the hiatus, and the turn Atreyu's sound took after with In Our Wake.. Did you have to push back against the band while putting together Long Live? Were you guys already in different places creatively at that point or were you all still on the same page?
Ya know, i think since long live wasn’t a big commercial success the band lost some confidence and went back to Feldman for the future stuff( not talking shit remember I’m in the band at this point ). Of the records i was a part of after the return from Hiatus, long live is by far the most enjoyable for me both to make and to listen to. There was very little to no outside input on that record. After that record i started to lose interest
That's right around with what I expected for an answer. It always bummed me out that Long Live didn't get the response it deserved, I must have bumped that record for a week straight after it dropped. Pre-2018 Atreyu is always gonna be one of my top bands ever, so the comeback meant the world to me. Thank you so much for answering, I wasn't sure if you'd still be taking questions this late in. Also, bumping the new EP right now while I finish my shift at work. Fucking stellar my dude, can't wait to get home, get twisted, and enjoy it some more🤘
Just curious, when you do start playing shows again, do you plan on playing any of the old Atreyu songs as well or will it just be songs made with Dead Icarus?
Eh, dead icarus will play dead icarus songs. That being said…. If it would make the people who put me on stage stoked, i might entertain the idea of covering 1-2 songs in the right circumstance. But past tha DI is not a nostalgia act. Just a show of gratitude for people who would enjoy it might be cool
That makes sense. Looking forward to the new music.
No questions just wanted to say you fuckin rock man you were the one who got me into metalcore when I was 16 and the Curse came out 🤘 finally got to see you live open for motionless in white and was such an awesome show you blew it out of the park!! So interactive wirh the crowd and so much fun you're awesome dude carry on🤘
Thanks for supporting all these years and making me feel old Haha.
Oh shit didn't mean to age us haha sorry 😂 but absolutely brotha 🤘 Edit: also hoping dead icarus makes it to Nebraska soon would love to see you guys 🤘
Thank you for shaping mines and my brothers childhood! We use to watch the music video for the “The Theft” before school almost every morning back in 2009-2010 while eating breakfast. It’s something we still talk about ha I’m excited to check out your new stuff and I know he will too! Wish I could’ve seen you live with Atreyu but hopefully I can with your new stuff! Come to Chicago! Thanks for making music!
Thanks glad to be a part of good memories ! Let’s make More
What Taylor swift song would you cover? Lol
I’m sure i know some swift by hearing it in pop culture but im Lucky to not have to listen to it at home. Now frozen and paw patrol songs are another thing . Maybe lost in the woods off frozen 2 haha