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First of all, could you introduce your band to the Industrialized Metal Webzine readers?
Hello everyone, this is Shaitan, lead singer/main programmer of industrialized black metal band Virtigo hailing from Toronto, Canada. We have been together for 5 years and we have 1 demo, 1 EP, and 2 full length albums released.
How did things get started, and why did you pick this band name?
When I first met Melek (Original programmer/guitar player) he had already chosen the name Virtigo. I joined in as the lead vocalist and secondary programmer. We found that we shared a “penchant” for an ideal sound. So we combined forces and worked together. In 2006, we had collision of opinions and Melek left but by then we have already released a full length album (Systematic Suicide) and had built a great local fan base. Therefore we decided to keep the name Virtigo.
How would you describe your music, and what are your main influences?
To be frank about it Gerardo, it’s a mix of thrashing guitars meld with synthetic leads torn asunder by screams to the pounding of heavy rhythmic beats. Our influences differ from each member which gives the band the current sound. It varies from Black Metal, traditional Industrial, EBM, Thrash Metal, Classical, and some Electronics.
How do you usually create your songs?
Synthesizer tracks and drums patterned are sampled first. Then we will add atmospheric keyboards, then guitars and bass, and finally vocals. After that we will review the song and change around until we are completely satisfied with it. Lyrics are usually pre-written and just have to be rearrange to fit the song.
Your latest album, 'Rituals of Broken Flesh', had a good review on our webzine. What do you think of the album yourself? How were the replies you received so far?
We have received nothing but great replies from everyone regarding this album. The local scene has shown us unbelievable support; very positive. Our CD release party was a success and it had the best turn out we have had. As to what I personally think of the album, I know the album will do well, I think it’s a great album with a personality that will distinguish it self from everyone else. I believe that when you listen to Virtigo, you will know its Virtigo and not anyone else.
What is, in your opinion, the best track of that album, and why?
I can’t decide. I love every track on the album. However, My favourite tracks are The Spear of Longinus, Xaphlan Convoys Acrimonia, The Holy Harlot, and The Judge of The Christian Derelict because they stand out the most of all (This is based on a personal opinion off course).
What's the message you try to spread lyrically?
No subliminal messages hidden in my lyrics. They are mostly based on the way I personally view things. Highly influenced by disgust to the mendacious way people live, the rancour feeling toward stupidity, malice toward herd conformity and religion. Sometime are based on Fantasies that I have sordidly created.
The music you make suits an energetic live show. What can a stranger expect when he visits a live show of your band?
We try to be as different from everyone else by creating our own on stage dimensional CHOAS! Relentless live shows are one of our priorities. When we do live shows, we make sure that anyone watching is astonished by the performance and effects. We abuse sirens, lights; strobes, theatrical corpse paint, fake blood, and the band member will exude their emotions for the love of the music. We want to see people euphorically collide into each other for the heavy songs, dance to the upbeat songs, and "head bang" and scream loud for the faster hymns.
How is the (industrial) metal scene over there in Canada?
Not bad, nor it’s great either. We have played shows where 200 people showed up, and shows where we had 40 people, it all depends. We know that it’s going to get better in the future for sure.
What are, next to music, your other passions in life?
Philosophy, I read a lot. Psychology and Misanthropy, it helps me write lyrics. Cathartic Blasphemies, it’s the best anger management. Culinary, I am a chef. Finally, sword collecting and watching cartoons.
What can we expect of Virtigo in the near future?
Hitherto, we are still working hard on improving ourselves in every aspect. We hope to tour Canada and perhaps USA by late this year or next year. New material is going to be a lot faster and different than we have put out so far. To make our live shows even more chaotic.
The interview ends here, thanks a lot for your time. If you have any final words to share, please do so.
Yes, I would love to ask everyone to please support your local talents, they will appreciate it. Our latest album “Rituals of Broken Flesh” is available through amazon.ca / HMV / Sonic Boom (Toronto), and soon on ITUNES. Buy our merchandise, and may darkness bless all.. We Thank you Gerardo for taking the time to do this interview and reviewing our album on your website, best wishes from everyone in Virtigo.
Interview by: Gerardo, answered by Shaitan (vocals, programming) - February 2009
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