Shadow Soldier Forever

17th October 2011

Post with 2 notes

It is only appropriate that I would publish a post with the word “doomsday” in the title, today of all days. Readers, you may be unaware of this but before the Rapture, Tuesday, April 26, 2011 had been long anticipated as “DOOMSDAY.” You might be curious as to why that is. Well, that was the day of the official release of Atavist, the highly-anticipated new record from the metal band Otep. I had the privilege of corresponding with the lead singer via email the day preceding “DOOMSDAY.” So, I proudly present my interview with Otep Shamaya, “the noble savage herself.”

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fallenevanfan: First of all … I would like to sincerely thank you for taking the time to sit down and answer these questions. I would also like to express my deepest gratitude – you are very influential to me as an artist and as a strong female role model, and it is an extreme honor to have the opportunity to interview you.

Otep Shamaya: Thanks for the opportunity.

fallenevanfan: The first Otep song I ever heard was “Head,” from your album Smash the Control Machine (2009). It was featured on an episode of season three of HBO’s True Blood last summer. How was your song chosen for the show, and why that song specifically?

Otep Shamaya: I’m not sure how the process works. I received an email from the label that read, “Check this out” with a youtube link and an air date of the episode. I am very proud that our song was on the show. I am a huge fan of the series and am really excited about the new one.

fallenevanfan: True Blood touches on a variety of mythical creatures, such as vampires, werewolves, shape shifters, fairies, etc. If you could be any mythical creature, which one would you choose and why?

Otep Shamaya: A shapeshifter, because then I could be all of these, I could be anything.

fallenevanfan: Needless to say, I was (and still am) awestruck by your powerful vocals. Tell me what instigated your desire to get into the metal genre and how you have honed your screaming skills throughout your career as a musician.

Otep Shamaya: I wanted to make the most emotionally aggressive, in your face, gut punch, head nourishing, spiritually healing music I could and this genre seemed to be perfect. I take care of my throat as one would a 300 year old Stradivarius violin.

fallenevanfan: However, screaming is not the only talent you possess. Upon listening to Smash the Control Machine, I noticed that your musical palette also ranges from melodic singing to rap-rock-style vocals to simple speaking, as if you are reading poetry (I say that in reference to “Kisses & Kerosene”). Describe to me why you delve into these different vocal styles.

Otep Shamaya: I let the songs build themselves. Whatever they require, I try to indulge.

fallenevanfan: Out of Otep’s entire discography, I would have to say that the album The Ascension (2007) is my current favorite. Personally, do you have an album that you favor more than any of your others? If so, why?

Otep Shamaya: ATAVIST is my current favorite. It’s a very personal album and does everything I ever wanted to do as a singer, poet, and songwriter.

fallenevanfan: Speaking of albums, your fifth full-length studio album, Atavist (courtesy of Victory Records), drops tomorrow, April 26^th. It seems like only a short while ago that you were tweeting about writing material for a new record. Has it seemed like a short while for you or have you been anticipating it just as much as your fans? What your thoughts and/or feelings in regards to its release?

Otep Shamaya: I am very proud but there are no words as to how I feel. It’s beautiful.

fallenevanfan: After hearing the first single “Fists Fall” and your cover of The Doors’ “Not to Touch the Earth” I cannot wait to hear the rest of the songs. Do you have a favorite song from Atavist? If so, which one and why?

Otep Shamaya: They all have equal importance and equal value. I admit that ATOM to ADAM is the first song to come to mind every time someone asks me this question. Second to mind is WE DREAM LIKE LIONS.

fallenevanfan: “Fists Fall” also has an official music video that I described on my Twitter as “fierce.” Tell me what the inspiration behind the lyrics was and how you came up with the video concept.

Otep Shamaya: It’s not important if we win or lose the fight, what is important is that we fight.

fallenevanfan: In this day and age, it is crucial, almost necessary, for musicians and bands to be involved in social networking. I know that you are an active participant on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, etc. and even update them yourself to communicate and stay in touch with your fans. What are your motives behind this?

Otep Shamaya: -To maintain contact and communicate with my fans and supporters. To keep the circle of friends and allies tight. To let everyone like me know, they are not alone.

fallenevanfan: Your fans have come to be collectively known as “The Tribe of Otep” or quite simply, “The Tribe.” Where did that come from and how do you feel about it?

Otep Shamaya: As a species, we are inherently tribal. Technology allows us to connect to each other, those who think, feel, believe, and fight they way we do.

fallenevanfan: You recently did an FYE in-store appearance that allowed you to meet some of your fans directly. After that, I assume you are anxious to get back out on the road and meet countless others. What are your touring plans?

Otep Shamaya: To be announced very soon.

fallenevanfan: That consists of my questionnaire. Thank you, Otep Shamaya … Is there anything that you would like to add, or even ask?

Otep Shamaya: Art saves.

Tagged: Otepotep shamaya