www.facebook.com/itsamassacre
From: Georgia
Sounds like: Progressive Metal
1. How did you get started with music and how did you develop your sound? How did the name "It's A Massacre!" come about and is there any meaning to it?
We all have different origins in music, but it started with us being driven by personal challenges and family influences. Our sound is influenced by a mix of raw energy, metal roots, and a DIY ethos. The name "It's A Massacre!" is inspired by 1950s horror movie posters, aiming for something loud, bold, and cinematic, like a newspaper headline.
2. What do you want people to take away from your music?
We want people to know that our music is authentic and comes from a real place, without compromise. It's meant to be an outlet for every type of experience—good, bad, or anywhere in between. Whether it's an energetic live show or a raw nasty track, we aim to connect through honest and raw music that speaks to both listeners and fellow musicians.
3. How would you describe your sound to the average listener?
We’d describe our sound as raw, energetic, and progressive with a mix of heavy grooves and intricate riffs. It's a blend of modern metal with nostalgic references, and it pulls from various metal genres, all while maintaining a unique rawness. It’s progressive, but with a heavier, more thoughtful approach rather than relying on extreme shredding or predictable trope of open chugs.
4. Who are three bands you’d like to tour with?
If we had our pick, we’d love to tour with bands like Between the Buried and Me, The Contortionist, and The Acacia Strain. If we're dreaming big, Mastodon, Deftones, and Converge would be an amazing fit too!
5. What's your thoughts on AI generated music?
Our thoughts on AI-generated music vary. Chris believes it has no place in art, while Ritchie finds it boring and diminishing to the craft. Wes is more neutral, seeing AI tools as useful but not for creating music on their own. Winston views AI as an interesting songwriting tool, like other production tools such as Autotune. When used correctly, it can help develop ideas, but overuse could lead to lazy creativity.
6. What’s your take on the current state of Progressive Metal?
The modern progressive metal scene has lost some of its original edge. Many bands are trying to sound like each other, which stifles creativity. We aim to bring back the "progressive" part by pushing boundaries and avoiding overproduction, like synths or backing tracks, that water down the raw energy of live performance. We pride ourselves in creating music with our instruments on stage and in the studio and nothing else.
7. What’s the current music scene like there in Georgia?
The Georgia scene is thriving, especially in the Atlanta area, where there are plenty of venues hosting metal shows weekly. It's great to see the scene growing and evolving, with new venues popping up as others disappear. We’re finding our own way in the scene and connecting with great people and talented musicians.
8. What’s your take on the royalties that streaming services pay out to artists?
The streaming royalties are a huge issue. We believe artists should be paid fairly for their work, and the current payouts are a joke. That said, streaming can still help create a direct connection with fans, who often support us through merch and live shows. It’s tough, but it’s part of the modern music game, and we just have to adapt. Luckily we produce all our own merch in house and are coming up with cool ways to connect with fans while being able to support ourselves.
9. What’s next for It's A Massacre!?
We’ve got a lot of exciting plans ahead, including releasing two EPs, hopefully touring, and working on a full album. More shows, more music, and just continuing to push forward.
10. Any shoutouts?
Shoutout to our musical heroes and inspirations, with a special nod to homies in Pigeon the Band, Tomb of Oedon, and GMO Productions for their support. And of course, Wesley Willis and Lil Pump, as well as our role model, Rack Em Willie. Free OG Steppa!
