by Paolo Santos
“There’s a bigger fish to fry in this industry – record label producers should realize that,” Immortal Sacraments’ guitarist Marron Verzosa said during a break in practice session at a basement studio in Winnipeg, Manitoba, for his band’s forthcoming sophomore album. “Once in a while there will be metal shows, but there is still a lot of room for progress.”
For anyone who frequents places like Ozzy’s or The Zoo, Immortal Sacraments may not be strangers at all. Immortal Sacraments have taken home several coveted first place “My Band Rocks” awards the Dylan O’Connors & Henderson Draft House, defied conventional weekend basement jams, and fearlessly growled their way into the black hearts of numerous local scenes. Through it all, the band remained relentless in making music and have yet to show any signs of slowing down.
Paul Magnaye (vocals), Marron Verzosa (guitar), Sherwin Ylagan (bass), Ronel Villamar (guitar) and Jolo Mejia (drums) sat down with Stylus to share their thoughts and give us a brief background on Immortal Sacraments.
Stylus: When it comes to crafting music, is it hard work or is it more about spontaneity?
Marron Verzosa: On any given day, we create riffs and lyrics regardless of our motivation. We make sure writing happens and worry about tweaking after making headway. Great sounds are not always achieved spontaneously, sometimes you just gotta keep on trying.
Stylus: Is there anything in your sound that reflects the Philippines?
Paul Magnaye: As much as we try to dismiss any racial influence in terms of making music, we always felt we had a strong connection with our roots. Filipino’s are poetic, sensitive, brave and emotional, all of which are elements of our song-writing whether it is lyrical or instrumental.
Stylus: Do smart-phones kill moshing? People seem to be a lot more concerned on what they post on YouTube or Facebook.
PM: We have nothing against the use of cell-phones, it is human nature backed-up by technology. On a performer’s perspective, “Sure, pocket your goddamned phones and mosh!” However, being in the audience, sometimes you just can’t help but want to capture the moment. It never hurts us when people share our videos – fact is it actually helps spread our music in more ways than one.
When asked who among the group has the most unique musical temperament, everyone started to grin. Without the need of words, an imaginary spotlight immediately pointed to their lead guitarist, Marron. According to Paul Magnaye, Marron is defiant of conventional writing and guitar playing. He sets the bar high and believes that there is always room to make improvements. Despite Marron’s strong inclination to speed and brutality, he always respects the bands identity – “heavy but lyrical,” that’s the reputation they have kept since the beginning.
Stylus: Being the latest addition and youngest member of the roster, what measures did you do to adapt with the experienced Sacrament?
Jolo Mejia: I listened to a lot of Filipino rock music as well as metal bands such as Slipknot. But that doesn’t mean I didn’t have to break a sweat to blend in. Hell no! It took a lot of practicing to catch up. The boys also supported me by welcoming me like a fam!
Stylus: A lot of bands, through their songs advocate or express their discontent with certain global issues, what’s Immortal Sacraments’?
PM: Corruption, inequality, economic collapse, war…. hard to even pick one! If there is one important message our music wishes to send, it has to be “hope.” We need that element in every crisis we are currently facing.
Stylus: What was the last CD or album you purchased?
Ed. Note: This question took the band a lot of time to provide an answer.
MV: Bloodline!
Sherwin Ylagan: Bullet for My Valentine.
JM: Killswitch Engage.
Ronel Villamar: Bon Jovi?
PM: Fuck! I can’t even remember! [long pause] Hmmm…. Tragically Hip?
Immortal Sacrament will be performing at Metalpalooza in Brandon June 28th. Check out their music on Facebook or YouTube.