Tetrarch are a metal/thrash band from Atlanta, Georgia in the US. They are Josh Fore (rhythm guitar/lead vocals), Nick Jones(drums), Ryan "Dave" Lerner(bass) and Diamond Rowe (lead guitar). The band got together in 2006 and over the past 5 years have played numerous gigs in their home state. I caught up with lead guitarist Diamond to find out more about the band, their sound, the local scene and their plans for 2011.
How did the band get together and when?
The band started when we were all about 16 years old back in high school. We used to just jam cover songs in our old drummer's basement and over time we decided we wanted to start writing original songs and playing shows. It didn't take long for us to figure out that this is what we wanted to do, and ever since we have been working hard to make that a reality.
Is the current line up the line up you've had from the start?
We have actually had a bassist and drummer change since the beginning. Josh and I are the two original members.
How would you describe your sound in 5 words?
Hmm, its harder then I thought to describe in 5 words! Haha. But i guess I would say, "mixture of new and old".
Which bands inspired you to make music?
We all have different influences. But for me it was bands like Metallica, Pantera, Nirvana, and Korn that really made me decide that making music is what I wanted to do with my life. Those were always bands that made me FEEL music, and I want to be able to make music that make other people feel the same way.
If you could tour with any two bands past or present, in the world, who would you choose and why?
Wow, only 2!? hmmm, I would have to say Metallica and Pantera. I have ALWAYS been into bands that just put on super energetic rock shows. They have great songs, and they get on stage and deliver them with energy. There isn't a single boring moment, and I think it would not only be really fun to tour with those bands, but we could also learn A LOT!
You seem to have had a lot of positive feedback from members of various bands who are making it big in the scene at the moment (e.g. Black Tide, Trivium, Hatebreed) - how did it make you feel when these individuals expressed a like for your music?
It was great! They are all really awesome and down to earth guys. It's always great to get compliments from some of your favorite artist and it's even better when they are patient enough to give you advice like they did for us. If you really listen to what they have to say, it usually will help you get much farther since at one point they were in your exact same position, and are currently doing what you strive to do.
I noticed that you are still unsigned despite all this feedback and also the fact that you are working with Matt Laplant on your new recording; is this intentional? Have you had any offers from labels or interest or are you happy to keep doing what you do as an unsigned act for the time being?
We are basically just waiting for the right deal. Today being signed is not the end all be all for a band making a career, so we would much rather wait and get the right offer that is going to propel our career and work with us and not against us, which I think is a mistake a lot of bands are making today. We have always been a band that likes to take care of business first and foremost, and we want to do it correctly. After all, this is the music BUSINESS.
What's the metal/thrash scene like in your hometown of Atlanta, GA?
Its ok. The metal scene here is tough if you're an up and coming band. There's a lot of hardcore and deathcore fans so it's a bit easier if you're playing that genre, but once you get the ball rolling for your band it's like the snowball effect. But in the beginning the scene is tough.
When can we expect to be able to get our hands on the new record?
Our new EP "The Will to Fight" is actually going to be released in March. We do not currently have a release date yet, but we should be releasing that very soon! Along with the release of the new EP we are going to have a whole new supply of merch including new shirts, posters, stickers, etc so be on the look out for that as well!
What are your plans for 2011 apart from the new record?
Once the "The Will to Fight" is released, we are looking to mainly play a lot of shows. We will probably be doing some touring on the CD and spreading the word as much as possible! Everyone should be sure to keep checking our show dates on our facebook(www.facebook.com/tetrarchga) and be sure to come out and hang with us!
If you could travel anywhere in the world to play a show where would you like to go?
AUSTRALIA! I have ALWAYS wanted to play there. I hear from so many people that it is a beautiful place, and bands always enjoy their time there. The metal fans there also seem to be avid, and really enjoy the music. I would definitely take advantage of that trip, and I can't wait to hopefully play there someday!
And finally, what's the best thing about being a member of Tetrarch?
The best thing about being a member of Tetrarch for me is basically having a second family that you get to do your absolute favorite thing in the world with. The guys are like my brothers, and we are all always there for each other. I can't think of a better group of guys to make music with.
