Heavy alternative goth rockers Terror Parade are back with new music in the form of their latest track “Freak” which is out now on all digital platforms. The track is a heavy rocking piece that encapsulates the band’s core sound and overall theme touching on the darker sides of life. The music video is premiering here at Metal-Roos the day before official release this Thursday so we caught up with the band ahead of it’s premiere to find out more on the song and the video and a little history about Terror Parade.
Tell us about the process of writing and recording the new single “Freak”.
Terror Parade: Freak was one of our songs we played live but just never got around to recording it The song somewhat evolved over time, originally being played a lot slower, we also added the constant kick drum and increased the tempo which keeps the track moving along in the groove.
Lyrically the track tells a story of lust and desire pushing the boundaries of normal and letting people know that it’s ok to explore their darker side. We once again worked with our producer Kalen Austin and we are super happy with the results, we wanted to create a bit more of a live feel on Freak and I think we achieved a live stadium feel. The track has some real space and depth on it.
What were some of the things you wanted to achieve with the song?
Terror Parade: Musically we wanted to give the listeners a bit more of a live vibe and a feel for how we sound on the stage. With the song having such strong themes we hoped it would create awareness that it’s ok to be a freak or a weirdo and explore your inner thoughts and fantasies. We also pushed ourselves outside of our comfort zones with the Film clip but at the same time had a lot of fun.
What were the lyrical themes and inspiration of the song?
Terror Parade: The inspiration lyrically was to tell a story of an underground world that only exists for the people in the know, we all know it’s been going on forever, but It’s never spoken about we wanted to normalize people’s desires and needs. There’s always been such a strong stigma against people who don’t fit it, and might be considered strange, especially those with alternative lifestyles. However, the reality is there is a world hidden away where people can be unfiltered and be their true weird self. There is a place for people with different desires to be accepted, it’s just a matter of going out and finding it.
How would you compare this song to your previous releases?
Terror Parade: This is a bit of a different feel for us. It’s a real grove-based song rather than our previous releases being more punk /metal origins. We wanted to go for an inclusive feeling and have something everyone can sing along to and join in. It’s a great song to play live. It just has that get up and show your inner freak to the world vibe. It’s basically a celebration of the freaks in the world so we wanted to show that with it being so high energy but still have a strong groove to it and make it danceable.
Tell us about the music video, the concept and how it came together?
Terror Parade: The lyrics really set the mood for the song. We wanted to tell a story and show the viewer exactly what the song was about. We basically said, let’s go for it, create something that pushes the boundaries but still has a classy feel to it. The concept was to create a very luxurious feel to the clip with the central focus being the Red illuminated X which symbolises the red-light district. Velvet furniture, red carpet and light finished off the look we wanted. We all got our kink on and bought the fun and freaky at the same time. We all had great chemistry on set which really helped the scenes and the vibe of the video shine. We also had our long time Video producer Clint from Red tape pictures on the shoot again which resulted in a great finished product.
The band released a couple of singles in 2022, what was the reception like from fans and media?
Terror Parade: We have been really happy with the two other releases Revolution was a bit one for us getting a lot of love with the video and Spotify etc ,the other release Burn this City had a similar theme post-apocalyptic but unfortunately we had a break in to the film set on the day of filming and a lot if the gear got stolen so we could complete the video. But overall we were very happy with the song’s performance considering we didn’t have the video clip for Burn This City.
How did the band form and get started?
Terror Parade: The band was formed in Brisbane in 2014 with a few different members so next year will be a bit of a milestone for us having stuck it out for 10 years. Current Vocalist Zichxyna and Paul/ Madman on Guitars are the longest serving members followed by Rob/Nightwalker on drums and our newest member James/silencer on Bass
What have been your greatest challenges to date, and your favourite moments musically?
Terror Parade: I think it was keeping the band together over the covid period, it was very difficult not playing live and not even being able to get together for our regular rehearsals, also having our gear stolen was another challenge it was a real setback. I think playing live is something that the band love to do so that always top of the list, also the satisfaction of producing high quality recorded music and film clips is also artistly is very satisfying
From what you’ve learned so far what is the most valuable advice you’ve been given so far as a musician?
Terror Parade: To be able to take in every opportunity that you have just take it all in and enjoy it, as not everyone gets to do what we do. Appreciate the people that pay money to come to see you. Make music for the love of the craft and not because you expect to become stars and lots of money. I think with today’s social media boom many younger kids grow up thinking becoming a star or famous is so easy and lose the passion for music when it gets tough.
Who are some of your main influences?
Terror Parade: The band has a really diverse range of influences for Paul/ Madman, Marilyn Manson Smashing Pumpkins, Misfits, The Cure, Kiss, ACDC
Zichxyna loves a lot of Japanese bands like Dir En Grey and many other people haven’t heard of, but also gets lots of inspirations from the early 2000’s bands like Linkin Park and Evanescence.
Rob / Nightwalker Drums is influenced by Foo fighters / Queens of the stone Age / Nirvana
James/Silencer Bass guitar is influenced by Ramstein, the Gazette, Baby metal
Who or what inspired you to be in a band and/or play music?
Terror Parade: I think for me Madman it was Kiss and AC-DC in the early days.
Zichxyna – I’ve always played music since I was young and loved to write music. I think being in a band is something I wanted to do as many of my favourite musical artists were also in bands. Performing is something I would do no matter what even solo, but I think having the collaborative feel of a band just felt right at the time so I decided to go down this path.
“Freak” is out now on all digital platforms here: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/terrorparade/freak
The music video premieres exclusively here at Metal-Roos on Thursday June 15th and worldwide on Friday June 15th. Subscribe to their channel to keep in the loop on release day.
