How did the songwriting and recording process for The Great Fire compare to Bleeding Through?
Dave Nassie: This process was very relaxed and completely different. We worked on this record and wrote the whole thing in the studio. It allowed us a lot more freedom and ability to take more liberty with the structure of the songs and create things that would be heard immediately instead of wondering how we could make it work. We had way to much stuff to work with when it came time to narrow the songs down and pick what we wanted. We just kept writing cause it was such an easy environment.
Since this is your second album with the band, were you more comfortable in the studio this time?
Yes, absolutely, and it's very apparent on this album to me in hindsight.
How do you and Brian divide the guitar parts?
We just sit down and write parts together. Whoever can play it the best or usually whomever wrote it plays it. Makes it easier.
Why did the band decide to self-produce this one?
We have made records for a long time, all of us individually. Brandan and the rest of the members have a clear vision of what the record should sound like. We all do, we just felt the need to be more involved ourselves this time. I feel it was a good choice and crucial for the development of the band.
Was the production a collaborative process, or did one or two members do most of it?
Brandan, Brian, and myself wrote most of the songs. Like I said though, with it being so easy this time, everyone really contributed! We would come back to the studio and hear a part that maybe Ryan added or Marta. We just let everyone be themselves and we were all very supportive and constructive of each other. It made for a strong collaborative effort.
How would you describe the sound/vibe of the album?
Over the top and very heavy. It has the best elements from previous albums and mixes it with what we all listen to and would want to hear in a BT record. We tried to just do something we felt we could all be proud of and listen to. I think we have achieved both what we wanted and what people have to come to expect from past records.
What will you remember most about the recording of this album?
How fast it really went. Ha!
What are your upcoming tour plans?
We have some shows that we are doing the week of the release and our putting together our year now. We are all very excited to tour and get these songs out there for people to hear.
What has been your most memorable Bleeding Through live show so far?
For me the Zenith in Paris on the Machine Head tour was epic!
What’s the craziest thing that’s happened to you on the road?
We are really laid back these days.. I always like though when I wake up to Brandan hitting me because I have passed out snoring and I am keeping him up. I always think that’s funny.
How did you get started in music?
My family. I learned to play from my grandparents.
Who were some guitarists who influenced and inspired you?
Eddie Van Halen, Paul Gilbert, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Shawn Lane.
What was your first band, and what style of music did they play?
A metal band in high school. I believed we were called Natas; so bad!
What led to you joining Bleeding Through in 2009?
I had been wanting to be in the band for a long time. Was always a fan. I was done playing punk and wanted to take it to the next level with my own playing.
Was the transition from punk to metal difficult?
No, just fun. I have always been a metal guy at heart.
Seen any good movies or DVDs lately?
I just watched a killer special on Miles Davis.
What's currently in heavy rotation on your MP3 player?
Megadeth at the moment.
Anything else you'd like to mention or promote?
Please check out my lessons and YouTube channel online. I have been giving lessons via Skype and Facetime as well as doing lessons locally here in Orange County. Hit me up if you are interested: Dnassie@yahoo.com Thanks for your time and I appreciate doing this interview. See you all soon!
