The conversation focused on the band Killed by Sorrow’s latest album "Empire of Excess," the evolution of music consumption, the challenges and uniqueness of the metal genre, and personal stories about the value of physical music media. Insights into music video production, the significance of meaningful lyrics, and the enduring spirit of Canadian musicians were also explored.
Main Topics Covered
Release and details of the new album "Empire of Excess" 00:49
The making of the "Empire of Excess" music video 01:20
Commentary on consumerism and disposable culture 02:58
Changing landscape of music consumption: physical albums vs. streaming 04:28
Nostalgia for vintage music formats and the experience they offered 05:41
The broadening and categorization of the metal genre 10:24
The importance of lyrics and crafting memorable songs 13:00
The creative process in songwriting and recording 18:15
Insights on Canadian music reaching US and international audiences 21:09
The impact of geography and climate on Canadian music and touring 24:29
Merch, fan support, and updates for listeners 27:13
Key Discussions and Stories
Music Video Production:
One concept discussed was the vision for the "Empire of Excess" music video, set amidst a dramatic wall of recycled cars, complete with drums on fire and smashed televisions—a scene the band found serendipitously at a local recycling yard. The use of a drone for filming and the anticipation for the final result were highlighted 01:36.
Consumerism and Changing Values:
The discussion explored the parallels between the disposable nature of modern goods and larger societal trends, expressing concern over constant consumption and the quick discarding of still-functional items 02:58.
Physical Versus Digital Music:
A key theme that emerged was nostalgia for vinyl and physical music collections, contrasting the tactile experience of old school album listening with today’s instant, digital access. Stories included experiences buying records for cheap as teens and the shock of present-day vinyl prices 05:41.
Making Albums in the Streaming Era:
Several points were raised, including the strategy behind having diverse genres on an album to appeal to wider audiences, acknowledging that listeners may no longer consume albums in their entirety 12:28.
Crafting Lyrics and Songwriting:
The importance of lyrical content and making songs memorable and interactive (e.g., crowd participation during live performances with repeated song titles) was emphasized. The songwriting process, from early attempts as a teen with an acoustic guitar to structured recording and leaving room for creative solos, was detailed 17:46 19:13.
Canadian Music on the Global Stage:
The challenge of Canadian music reaching US audiences, the difference in touring across vast geographies, and reflections on the unique character of music developed in cold Canadian climates were discussed with humor and insight 21:09 24:29.
Notable Quotes
"We consume, consume, and then, you know, as soon as there's something new, we'll just discard the old stuff, even if it still works." 02:58
"You valued the music so much more. There's too much to consume now. We need the specialness back." 09:20
"At any time somebody could switch a switch and turn off all these streaming services and take away all your music because you don't own it when you do that. Like, at least with physical copy, you own it." 06:21
"We try to compose in a way where there's always a part... people hearing this song and be able to sing along to the song itself." 14:43
"Sometimes the work takes time to complete because you want to make sure that it's the best version it can actually be at the time being." 18:26
"Please listen to this [album] with the proper set of headphones because the bass tone is out of this world. It comes and punches you right where you need it to be punched." 19:59
Resources and Links Mentioned
Album: "Empire of Excess" by Killed by Sorrow (available on Spotify, YouTube, iTunes Music)
Band Website: killedbysorrow.com
Social Media:
Facebook: Search "Killed by Sorrow"
Media/Publicist: Asher Media
Merchandise: Hoodies, t-shirts, and other swag available through band’s website and social channels
Connect with the Band
Stream new music on all major platforms
Visit killedbysorrow.com for merch and updates
Follow on Facebook for news and tour info
Leave feedback or comments about the new album and support the band’s next creative steps 27:25
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Adventures of Pipeman featuring Killed by Sorrow!
