Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer, Anthrax. Brian Korban of is one of the pioneers of one of the greatest thrash metal bands you’ve never heard-Heretic. Skope sat down with Brian recently to ask him about his decision to re enter the music industry after a 25 year hiatus as well as the state of the music industry past, present, future.
1) I guess the first question would be Time. What was it about the things that were going on in the world that compelled you to start writing again?
The reason I started playing again is due to my own envy. I was seeing pictures of my dear friends Glenn Rogers and Angelo Espino playing festivals in Europe in front of thousands of people with the band Hirax. Glenn had been telling me for years that I should consider reforming Heretic, but I never took it to serious. I see now that the Europe metal scene is similar to what I saw in Los Angeles many years ago.
2) A lot of the earlier Heretic releases are better if not just as masterful as some of the work of the more so called successful chart bands. How important is compromise when trying to reach a different audience in the music industry nowadays as opposed to when you first started Heretic?
NOW, there is no pressure. When we were younger, every step we made seemed so vital. I am older now, I can appreciate the smallest of steps. My advise to new acts would be to master your craft (songs) believe in everything you are creating, and worry about getting signed later.
3) What are some of the notable releases of the past few years you can successfully call as influences. On you, your life, and/or the new material?
Honestly, for me I listen to old classic stuff. I’ve enjoyed ACCEPT rolling forward with a new vocalist, and I like anything SLIPKNOT has recorded. I have to admit I am a bit of a recluse, so I tend to only dive deep into what I am writing at the time.
4) There has been an emphasis on chart positions in the United States. Do you feel the message of Thrash metal has changed with the evolution of the Music industry US and/or worldwide?
No, we will always be the bastard son of the music industry, but that’s why thrash has been able to keep its integrity over the years. Being number one doesn’t mean as much as it used to mean back in the day. Record sales aren’t the driving force anymore; now, reputation and endurance seem to be the important words in the industry, but the masses will always be interested in the latest fad.
5) Opening for Metallica, Your talk about winning over the crowd as being one of your finest moments. Are there any acts today you admire that would like to work with?
Give Heretic an opening slot- the show just got that much better. I personally want to the band to get a shot at some of the huge metal festivals. We have a lot to prove, but we just need the chance to show the world what we are capable of.
6) My Dad’s Belfast Irish and knows all about you guys…what does it feel like to know your music has reached people in other parts of the world?
Heretic never really had a chance to tour before we disbanded. So when we were finally able to get to Europe to play in Germany at the HOA festival in July of 2013, it was a real eye opener. The reaction from the crowd was overwhelming. Fans from all over the world brought CD and LP’s for us to sign, and our live performance was one of my favorite live gigs to date. The positive vibes Heretic has been receiving since we’ve reformed humbles me.
7) Finally, is there anything you want Heretic fans old and new to know about the band?
We plan to be around a lot longer this rime around. We’re older and wiser and want to add to Heretic’s musical legacy. I’m happier playing now than I ever have, so as long as I can please the metal world, HERETIC will be around.
Christopher R. Gilmore – robinne.gilmore@gmail.com
