California metal crew, Spite understand that writing a new album is a bit of a balancing act. Change too much, and it might alienate some fans. Change too little and risk feeling stagnant or boring. At the heart of it, there needs to be some growth that happens with each record, and the band has certainly found that with their upcoming third full-length album, The Root of All Evil, out next week. For the new album, the band found themselves experimenting with new sounds and pushing themselves more than ever.
With The Root of All Evil out next week, we caught up with the band to chat about the album, their upcoming tour dates and plans for the rest of the year. Read the full interview now below and grab a copy of The Root of All Evil on October 4th.
You guys have had a busy year full of tour dates and new music – what have been some of your highlights of the year so far?
Honestly the thing I’ve been most excited about this year so far has been being able to release new music. These songs have been years in the making and it feels incredible to finally be putting them out. I can’t wait to headline off this album and preform the new songs live. The lineup has been confirmed and it is…wild.
You’re also getting ready to release your new album, The Root Of All Evil next month! What are you most excited for fans to hear on the album?
Yes. When Nothing is Beautiful came out I feel it really showcased our growth as band and songwriters since the self titled. This album I think did as well. Every song is different and I believe there is something for everyone on it. The lyrics are bold and to the point and the music is faster and aggressive. I’m excited to see what everyone’s songs are.
The Root Of All Evil will mark your third full-length record. Was there anything you wanted to accomplish with this one that you haven’t been able to do with past releases?
I don’t know if there is anything that we weren’t able to do with our previous releases, but, each album I’m able channel what I’ve been dealing with the years leading up to writing them. It’s very cathartic.
How do you feel you’ve grown in the two years between Nothing Is Beautiful and The Root Of All Evil?
Our live performance continues to get stronger. We are constantly grinding to perfect the show. The team we have now is next level and its going to make this new album come to life that much more. See SPITE live.
Were there any challenges you faced when working on the album? If so, how did you overcome them?
Finding the right balance between writing things you want to that might be kind of off the wall, and also sticking to what your listeners like you for. You have to find a way to do both. Respect yourself and respect your fans, that combination will take you further. We tried a lot of new things with this album, lyrically and instrumentally. I think the lyrics are just a little more put together than some on NIB, but they are bold and angry as is traditional SPITE. The music itself has some of everything from all genres of metal sprinkled over the record, but still holds to our roots, heavy and intense. It’s important to keep trying new things. Growth as a band is subjective. You need to release a good album without releasing the same album twice.
You also recently released “Judgement Day” from the album. Can you tell us a little bit about this song in particular? What inspired it?
Judgement Day is heavily influenced by my feelings about modern day social media and how it is running everything into the ground. Everyone thinks they are a perfect example of a human being, constantly trying to force upon others how they are bettering themselves, the world, and everyone around them. It’s actually damaging. It’s like there is this angry mob act behind a screen for everything. My opinion or fuck you. My way of life or fuck you. People are getting together to ruin other peoples lives for simple mistakes. Doing everything they can to outcast people. DO you know what kind of depression, anger, and violence this behavior provokes? Anything for that small bit of internet praise. This is not how we grow up. This is not how we become better. No one is perfect…some people’s dirty laundry just hasn’t been exposed yet. Get the fuck over yourself.
Can fans expect to hear some more new music from the album before it drops?
Yup. Got one more for ya.
With The Root Of All Evil out soon, you’re also gearing up to hit the road this fall. What are you most excited for on these upcoming tour dates?
We are going out with bands that people have been asking us to tour with for a long time. Each band on the lineup is devastatingly heavy but in their own way. I can’t wait to see the crazy shows this group of bands together brings out.
Do you have any other big plans for 2019?
Yes. I mentioned before but we have a headliner planned. We chose some of the best bands in the game to come out with us. It’s going to be complete chaos.
Thanks for taking the time to chat with us! Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Thank you! I appreciate anyone taking the time to read this interview. I hope you are all excited for The Root of All Evil and this next chapter for the band. SPITE CULT.
STAY CONNECTED WITH SPITE: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram