It’s been a long time coming but MA’s own All That Remains are finally ready for the big show and their headlining appearance during Day 2 of The 14th Annual New England Metal And Hardcore Fest proves it. Bassist Jeanne Sagan chatted with The Blerd13 to talk about the show and plans ATR’s next album.
1. How important is it for All That Remains to be headlining one of the days of the 14th Annual New England Metal And Hardcore Fest?
We have become successful in the radio world and I think headlining a festival like this shows we are still relevant in the metal/hardcore genre.
2. What can fans expect from your appearance and what do hometown shows mean to you?
Personally, playing the Palladium is a big deal. It’s where I’ve seen all my favorite bands and I also used to work there when I first joined the band. So it’s always bittersweet to me. We are going to play more old stuff then we typically have been just because it is hometown and we hope to please those old school local fans that will be attending.
3. Any chance of some new material being previewed live?
Not this time.
4. Are there any bands that you’re especially excited to see perform this weekend?
Yeah a bunch, I’m such a huge fan of music and still enjoy seeing bands live. I would still go even if we were not playing. I am excited for Black Dahlia Murder, Skeletonwitch, Dragonforce, Killswitch, Every Time I Die, Vanna, Stick To Your Guns, Glass Cloud, Periphery, Carnifex, Unearth, God Forbid, Upon A Burning Body, Protest The Hero, Mychildren Mybride, Hundredth to name a few.
5. Killswitch Engage, Unearth, All That Remains, and The Acacia Strain are some of the notable local acts that are performing this weekend, how do you feel about the current state of the New England metal scene? Are there any up and coming bands you feel local metal fans should look out for?
To be honest we were on tour most of last year. I’ve only been to a few shows since we have been home so it’s hard to really comment on the state of the metal scene. People seem to still get excited and I continue to see young fans which is a good sign. There are a couple local bands we played with in December that caught my attention. Junt and Hope Lies Within. Also, Vena Amoris won the battle of the bands to play Metal Fest. So that’s worth checking out.
6. How far along are you in the recording process for the next record and why was Adam D (Adam Dutkiewicz, Killswitch Engage guitarist/producer) the right choice as producer again this time around?
This is the bands 4th album with Adam. We are all friends and are really comfortable working with him. We are currently in pre production mode and will start tracking after Metal Fest.
7. Is there an album title or a release date yet?
Not just yet.
8. What are the touring plans following the album release?
We have nothing booked so I don’t have a real answer for that.
9. After it was announced that Howard had left Killswitch Engage, It was rumored that Phil would replace him in the band especially since filling in on select dates during their last North American tour. How close was that to becoming a reality?
I don’t think Phil even thought about it. We kinda have a good thing going with ATR.
10. Boston recently banned moshing and crowd surfing in its’ area clubs and venues. Being a heavy band with fans who like to express themselves in the pit, how do you feel about the news?
Heavy music is a release but I guess it’s also a liability. It’s going to make for some boring crowds. Ha ha. Bands use that crowd energy to boost their performances and being limited in self-expression will just kill the buzz I think.
All That Remains headlines the main stage of The 14th Annual New England Metal And Hardcore Fest this Saturday, April 21st at the Palladium (261 Main St) in Worcester. Tickets are $45 with doors opening at noon on Saturday. ATR take the stage at 10:30 PM.