Mind Equals Blown

Interview: Trivium

Trivium is ready to rip up the world once again with their new release In Waves due out on August 9th. They are heading into very interesting territory here by leaving a very open album, as you will read for yourself with the interview I had with Paolo Gregoletto here.

MEB: So tell people a little about how you started out in Trivium? What was the band you were with at the time when Jason hit you up for Trivium?

Paulo: I played around as a fill-in bassist for other bands around the area at the time. I was in a band called Metal Militia at the time when Jason Suecof (producer for Ascendancy) asked me to play bass for Trivium.

Lyrically, what sort of topics will In Waves cover? On The Crusade, there were lyrics about famous murders, while Shogun had mythology as a main force; will there be an overall lyrical theme to In Waves?

It touches on more personal experiences we’ve had, but the writing of the lyrics are done so that they will be completely open to interpretation, which is a huge part of the entire album. It evokes a sense of mystique to the listener.

Are there any music videos that will be coming out soon? If so, which song(s)? Do you plan on releasing more singles before or after In Waves drops on August 9^th?

Well we just released the video for “In Waves” not too long ago. As for our next one, it will be on the song “Built To Fall.” The videos are pretty wild and, like the album, are completely open to interpretation.

In previous interviews I’ve read, you all have stated that the new album will more closely resemble the raw aggression that was present in Ascendancy. Will there be any of the complex and epic compositions at all, or will it all be like Ascendancy?

We wanted to go back to the raw and unbridled energy we had back in the days of Ascendancy. At the time, that album helped us rise above all the trends that were prominent at the time and make our own sound. We then built on that and wrote more epic compositions like “Kirisute Gomen.” But now we are going back and doing what we do best.

What makes B.C. Rich guitars unique and better sounding than other basses? Is there a difference between what you use in the studio and what you use in a live setting?

Well when I was young, B.C. Rich was one of my very first guitars and when I started out playing, they actually hooked me up with one. I actually have a signature handmade Warlock that will be out soon. I just love B.C. Rich and the awesome tone they have compared to other basses.

What is the idea behind the artwork for In Waves? What is the meaning of the title?

Well again, it is open to interpretation to the viewer. We really wanted to think outside of the box on this one, so we sent the artist our music and told him to make a cover based on the songs. So basically, only he can properly explain that haha.

Who are some of your personal biggest influences in music? What are some bands or musical artists you would recommend people to check out?

I tend to have a varied taste in music, everything from Metallica to Sade. When I was young, Slayer was the band that really blew me away and made me get into metal. I just recently got the Death re-issues not too long ago and I’ve been listening to that.

What songs do you like to play the most live?

Easily anything off of Ascendancy, which is another reason we want to go back to that era.

What came first for the recording of In Waves, the lyrics or the music?

The music is what came first. Matt had some lyrics sitting around that he incorporated into this album, but they were mostly written after the music.

Are there any tours planned for after Mayhem?

We are doing a supporting tour for In Flames after Mayhem Fest, but I can’t confirm any other tours just yet.

Ironic that my only other interview scheduled for today is with labelmates Machine Head. I understand that was your first tour if I’m not mistaken. What was that experience like for you? How much time did you have to learn the old songs before leaving for the tour? How do you feel that you’ve changed since?

It was such a mind-blowing experience to be able to tour with Machine Head and Chimaira. In a way, Machine Head really mentored us on how life on the road really is, but in an indirect way. The Black Crusade tour was also one of our favorite tours we’ve ever done.

Why is it you have all chosen to stay with Roadrunner Records compared to other labels?

They really stuck by us in the long run and have shown tons of support. We have an excellent relationship and I really don’t see it ending any time soon. They give us so much room to write and record our albums that I feel other labels won’t.

What was your first song recorded with Trivium?

Honestly, I can’t really remember, but the first record was Ascendancy.

What was it that made you all decide it was time to go in and record a new album? What made you guys want to revisit the days of Ascendancy instead of continuing down the musical road that The Crusade and Shogun set?

Well we knew we had to do something different and not fall into the groove The Crusade and Shogun were heading into. So we decided to just go back to Ascendancy and have that raw energy back, but also not try to make In Waves an Ascendancy Pt. 2. We felt more refreshed and knew that we could pull this off. We needed a clean slate for the band.

What’s been the feedback so far from your singles “In Waves” and “Dusk Dismantled?”

It’s been very positive so far. The fans seem to love it!

What sort of inside advice can you give other musicians about the major labels and about starting their own band?

Really think outside the box. Do not try to incorporate other bands’ sounds into your own. NEVER go out and pay for lessons! Teach yourself. Don’t let other labels spoon-feed you, because you’re only setting yourself up for disappointment. Also be willing to experiment to your heart’s content.

Any last words for your fans?

Thank you all for everything! We would be nothing without you all.