Carl Begai: Again, I don’t have one be-all-or-end-all favorite. I’d flunk that whole “one album on a deserted island” test with flying colors. Queensryche’s Operation: Mindcrime is the Holy Grail to some extent, but Loudness’ Disillusion, Judas Priest’s Painkiller, Annihilator’s Never Neverland, Children Of Bodom’s Hate Crew Deathroll and Arch Enemy’s Anthems Of Rebellion all hold that “it” for me as well…
What suggestions would you have for somebody wanting to get into writing about heavy metal?
Grammar. Know the rules, and if you’re not sure about something, ask someone. There’s nothing more pathetic than reading a story and finding it full of spelling mistakes, misused and abused punctuation and Grade 2 level sentence structure. Remember, the editor is not there to save your ass.
Don’t take anything for granted. Free promo CDs, guest listing, listening sessions, interviewing the “stars,” it’s all good, but it’s part of the JOB. Once you’re on the inside you have to earn the right to stay there, so treat it seriously. Have fun with it, absolutely; just remember there are artists, label people and colleagues depending on you to hold up your end of the bargain.
Step out of your comfort zone. It’s cool to cover the artists and metal styles you’re familiar with, but taking a shot in the dark can be very educational and a hell of a lot of fun. You may find certain bands and genres don’t suck nearly as much as you figured if you open your ears rather than shoving the music to the bottom of the “in” pile on reflex.
Anything else you’d like to mention?
Just a thanks for giving me the opportunity to do this, although it’s VERY strange having the shoe on the other foot. I’m used to asking the questions! And a thanks to all the bands and artists that keep me busy. I’m glad to be a part of the metal machine, thanks for putting up with me.
