1. Can you give us an update on what is going on with the band these days?
We just returned from a three week west coast/southern US tour, and we are gearing for another three week US tour starting Sept.11. We also just released and LP entitled "The Blind Hole" a few weeks ago.
2. How would you describe the musical sound of the new album and how it differs from previous releases?
The new LP is definitely the most abrasive material we have to date. I think we were finally able to purge the sound we set out to make since day one. Our previous releases have many of the same elements, but with the help of Andy Nelson, our engineer, we were able to harness our live sound in its truest form.
3. The lyrics cover a lot of straight edge and veganism themes, can you tell us more about your views on this lifestyle?
We didn't discuss very many vegan ideals on this new record, and only a few songs relate to straight edge. We get asked about this a lot. The only thing I can say is that, we are all vegan straightedge, but we all have different paths. I think its important for people who listen to our music know where we are coming from even if not every song relates to those particular views. We are more interested in connecting with passionate people, than someone who is simply straightedge.
4. What is the meaning and inspiration behind the bands name?
We got the name from one of our favorite bands, The Swarm. We felt it was unique and also directly relates to our lyrical themes as well as our overall view. Our lyrics deal with humbling occurrences, such as death, and the fear it evokes. We try to realize and appreciate every second we have and our name is a constant reminder.
5. What are some of the best shows that the band has played so far and how would you describe your stage performance?
We have played all kinds of venues, from a basement in Kansas City in the middle of summer with 50 people crammed inside, to a sold out historic theater in Boston to 420 seated people. We have played tons of awesome shows, it's difficult to pinpoint one. I feel like its always a struggle to play on a giant stage, since we came from playing basements and DIY warehouses, I sometimes wonder if there is ever a way to translate the energy from a place like that to a giant stage.
6. DO you have any touring or show plans for the future?
We are about to hit the road again for three weeks in September to and from the west coast. We are also going to be touring Europe and South East Asia in the fall. Both of which we are extremely excited for.
7. On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to the new album by fans of grindcore?
It's been mixed, I can never tell when we get negative feedback if people don't like our music or the exposure we are getting. Either way, we get a lot of positive feedback, and that's all i concentrate on. Many of the people who have been with us since the beginning, have said nothing but good things about our new material.
8.What is going on with the other musical projects these days?
Right there is nothing to serious just our individual bedroom projects. I am currently working on a doomgaze band and hank is working on a posthardcore/screamo project. Bo is doing an Dischord Recs band. But DITD is all our main focus at the moment.
9. What direction do you see your music heading into on future releases/
It's hard to say, we usually realize new ideas over our heavy and lengthy touring schedule. I have begun to think on themes for the next release, but I think it's still much too early to be certain.
10. What are some bands or musical styles that have influenced your newer music and also what are you listening to nowadays?
We all listen to different music from what we play. Certain elements present themselves in our music with sometimes no clear connection to the influence, but we know its there. We have been jamming Looking for an Answer, Heartless, Bloody Phoenix, Despise You... too much to list.
11.Outside of music what are some of your interests?
Bo and Hank both skateboard quite a bit. Bo draws artwork for bands and for galleries here in town. I garden and spend time with my family.
12.Any final words or thoughts before we wrap up this interview?
Thank you for this interview, and to whoever may end up reading it.
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