Todd Stern | Psycroptic Exclusive Interview

A.R Achterberg 07/15/19

As The Kingdom Drowns is Psycroptic recent release through Prosthetic Records

I had the chance to talk to Todd Stern of the band in this exclusive interview for

Metalheads Corporation

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A.Achterberg

What is the weirdest and funniest question you’ve ever been asked?

T.Stern

I think the funniest interview question is whether or not touring in a death metal band is our one and only source of income. Weird? All of this is weird in a way. It's weird that this genre of music has even been developed, if you think about it.

PSYCROPTIC - WE WERE THE KEEPERS (GUITAR PLAYTHROUGH)

A.Achterberg

What do you feel is the best song you’ve ever written?

T.Stern

Personally I think "Echoes to Come" from 2015's self-titled, is the greatest Psycroptic song ever written. It is a really strong piece; masterfully composed, chock full of sick riffs, massive chorus that's ultra catchy in a good way, lots of chunky parts that crush, and displays the bands ability to use finesse while still delivering a pounding.

PSYCROPTIC - "Echoes to Come" (Official Music Video)

A.Achterberg

So you’re playing Dubai! What are your thoughts on that show in the Middle Eastern side of the Metal Map?

T.Stern

We're thrilled! It's a very exciting prospect for so many reason. We love playing new places in general, but we have heard great things about accommodation and hospitality, as well as the metal fans there being extremely enthusiastic.

As The Kingdom Drowns

A.Achterberg

As The Kingdom Drowns is the band’s recent record, what’s your favourite song from it?

T.Stern

Title track! Mega heavy groove. Like a thick, buttery steak to sink your teeth into and thoroughly enjoy.

PSYCROPTIC - FROZEN GAZE (OFFICIAL AUDIO)

A.Achterberg

How would you describe the writing process of As The Kingdom Drowns?

T.Stern

Easy! Joe is a riff machine who has never had a bad idea, Dave hears a riff and instantaneously knows exactly what to put behind it in order to maximize emphasis and effectiveness, Pepp uses his vocal approach to put tantalizing detail over an already complex and powerful landscape, and I just stick to the root notes for all the main parts, keeping the movement of the song slick and heavy, only sprinkling in some noodley-stuff when it's appropriate.

In of the actual writing process though, it all starts with Joe doing his thing.

A.Achterberg

If you could date any other musician or celebrity, who would it be and why?

T.Stern

Hmmm... someone very wholesome. Like a Taylor Swift or something like that. It would be funny doing red carpet appearances and watching a bunch of hoity-toits get appalled by the dirtbag hanging on her arm.

A.Achterberg

If you had one message to give your fans, what would it be?

T.Stern

Message: We are not exactly a party band. The quickest way to our hearts is through sweet treats, ice cream, and shit like that. We're gluttonous as fuck and on some tours, it REALLY shows.