Chad Bowar: Give us a preview of Feed The Beast.
Juan Juarez: It's fast, brutal, and amazing!
What’s the story behind the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle theme being on the album?
Well it all started with my singer Jose actually listening to the cartoon theme online while we were rehearsing. As we practiced Jose suggested in covering the song and making it into our style and we all thought it was a great idea because we are all big turtle fans. We've played many shows covering this song, and people love it and go crazy! So why not put it in the album?
How did you guys get together?
I'm actually the newest member in the band, I think I joined a year after the band started. It started with Jose in search for musicians to start a band, and he had friends who knew musicians so everyone just kinda knew someone I guess. After the band was together for about a year, they entered a battle of the bands competition and began to search for another guitarist. The band somehow heard about me through other people that I played guitar fairly well. I actually knew about Bonded By Blood before and was told by friends to join the band but I never really took it into consideration. Jose(Aladdin) contacted me randomly one day and asked me if I would like to try out and I said yes. He came later that day, I played for him and liked what he said and I then met the rest of the members and they all liked me as well.
Obviously Exodus is a huge influence. Who are some other bands that helped shape your sound?
We actually have many different influences, but some of the bands favorites would be Testament, Nuclear Assault, Megadeth, Onslaught, Death, Misfits and many more. There are so many great bands out there that have helped shape the sound of the band.
What are your expectations for the CD when it comes out?
I think it will do rather well. I'm sure a lot of people will dig it, and hope to tour non stop.
With so many up and coming thrash bands out there, what sets Bonded By Blood apart?
I think what sets us apart is our singer and lyrics, while most other bands sound more evil.
What are your upcoming tour plans?
We will be going on tour this June and it begins June 14th. Then in August we shall be doing a US tour with our buddies Exmortus which should be a lot of fun, and in September we go to Europe.
You’ve already had the chance to play shows with some of your musical heroes, such as Exodus. What were those experiences like, and did any of the bands offer you any advice?
It's amazing to have the opportunity to be playing with such great acts like Exodus and Testament which have been a big influence on us. We actually didn't really get the chance to talk to them, but some of the Exodus members did enjoy and dig our set which was pretty cool.
Being that some of your members are so young, have you had any problems with certain venues letting you play there?
Actually so far we haven't had any problems with any venues yet, most venues have been cool with us playing there.
L.A. has always had a strong punk and hardcore scene. Is metal on the rise there as well?
Yes it is actually. When we started there weren't that many metal bands. Now there are more bands started up, which is pretty cool.
Who are some of your L.A. thrash compatriots that may not yet be signed, but we should know about and check out?
Tyrant is a band I think you should check out, they are great friends of ours and play great music.
What do you hate?
Not being able to play guitar and not having music to listen to.
Who are your heroes?
I would say John Petrucci is a hero of mine, he's been a really big influence on me.
What are the best and worst things about being in a band?
I think the worst part of being in a band is nothing, I enjoy most of the time I spend with the band. The best part of being in a band is the live show of course, meeting new people, fans, hanging out with friends having a good time, going crazy on stage and what not, its just great. Also being in the studio is a lot of fun and a lot of great times.
What do you like to do when you’re not playing music?
Listen to music. We like to play video games, go to shows and support local bands. Watching movies is always fun as well.
What's your worst habit?
My worst habit will probably have to be I tend to forget how play all our songs at practice and shows, nah just kidding, but forgetting things is one of my bad habits when it comes to listening to others and remember small things or any random thing.
What's the best movie or DVD you've seen lately?
The best movie I have seen lately would probably have to be Superbad, such a funny movie. its hilarious, or Iron Man.
What CD do you own that people might be surprised about?
Red Hot Chili Peppers – Blood, Sugar, Sex, Magik
Anything else you’d like to add?
Thanks to all the fans and everyone who supports us. Hope you all pick up our album.
