Having changed things up for themselves, since their start way back when, Hellevate, have released some content, with new music in the works currently. At the time, all work ethic is in full force, as the band gathers their thoughts together, to work on this new album, before heading out to play some shows or consider touring but maybe something will fall into its proper placing sooner or later for them! The band talks about their music releases, changes made, and everything else at hand for the time being currently.
1. Please tell us about the history of your band and its members.
Hellevate was formed in 2007 by Danowar. The band as it's known today was put together in 2013 after the singer and rhythm guitarist that were on the first album left. They hired Drew Blood and Alec Johnson of the thrash group Bleed the Victim, who stayed for a few months before leaving to be replaced by me. We had to let go of RJ Machine Gun in August 2016, and we shortly after replaced him with Chris Wilson from the death metal band Troglodyte shortly after. Sadly, he had to leave due to some medical issues a few months ago, so we're getting that sorted.
2. What’s the origin of the band’s name?
It's the combination of Hell and elevate, elevating Hell, or raising Hell. It's a bit silly, but it's fun.
3. Where is the band based out of and what is your music scene like there? Are there any local bands you could recommend?
We're from Kansas City, MO. To be honest, I can't think of a time that it's been better. It feels very vibrant and alive, and there's a great group of support here in KC. I'd personally recommend Vanlade, a speed/power metal band that are, in my opinion, the best metal group in the city. I'd also recommend the aforementioned Bleed the Victim and Troglodyte, both very talented and heavy bands. Not only them, I'd also throw in Meatshank, Marasmus, Moonsick, and lastly my other band, Ealo.
4. How would you describe your style?
We've been slowly incorporating more power and speed metal elements into our music. Way back when, Hellevate could be described as death/thrash, but nowadays I'd be more keen to say power/thrash. We don't quite do the big epic choruses, but we incorporate a lot of riffing, harmonies, and melodic sensibilities that power metal has. Think of bands like Heathen or Forbidden.
5. What have you released so far and what can someone expect from your works?
We have two albums, and an EP. We released our album, "Weapons Against Their Will", in 2016, and we're currently in the rehearsal process for the third. Expect some very cool riffing, harmonies, and great singing from Drew.
6. Do you have any new music in the works?
Yep, we're hoping to release it next year. On our new album, you can also expect more melody, some classical influences, some really off the wall riffing and song structure in places, a lot of interplay between the guitars, and even more vocal efforts from Drew.
7. How about playing shows and touring, have anything planned out?
Without a drummer we're hesitant to do much booking currently. We're in talks with a few festivals, hopefully those pan out, but in the meantime we're more focused on getting a drummer and getting the album done. Hopefully by the middle or end of the year we'll do a local date or two and some regional stuff.
8. What plans do you have for the future as a band?
We're wanting to take this wherever it goes. Right now we can't focus too much on more than the immediate future, but we're wanting to get a solid foundation back in place to springboard off of for some great stuff.
9. Where can we listen to your band and where can we buy your stuff?
You can check out hellevate.com, and also our Bandcamp at hellevate.bandcamp.com. There you can get all of our releases on streaming, download, or even physical copies!
10. What is it you’d like a listener to remember the most when hearing your music for the first time?
Get ready for some thrash that's willing to steep it's toes in power metal, as well as occasional forays into death and extreme metal. Everything is allowed to happen, as long as the songs are good. Stay heavy!
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