BITE ME! Chimaira Interview

Rob Arnold of Chimaira - By Nikki Neil

Chimaira, known throughout the metal underground for their unique hardcore/nü-metal fusion are on a mission to resurrect metal in America. Since its inception in 1998 the Cleveland based hardcore unit—featuring Mark Hunter (vocals), Matt DeVries (guitar), Rob Arnold (guitar), Jim LaMarca (bass), Andols Herrick (drums), and Chris Spicuzza (keyboards)— has evolved to become a major force in the metal scene.

The band’s first four records were well received, but after the release of their last effort (self-titled) the band’s future was threatened by internal strife. Luckily, the members worked things out, found a new label (Ferret Music USA/ Nuclear Blast worldwide), and then embarked on a mission to make the heaviest record possible.

The group’s myspace page describes their sound as a “Twelve Testicle Bulldozer” and while many might not know quite what that is those who have heard the “Resurrection” will most likely attest that it is Chimaira’s heaviest and most musically technical album to date. This solid release doesn’t stray too far from the core of purist metal and will no doubt inspire a new generation of metal heads.

BM: How did you feel when you found out “Resurrection” ranked #42 on Billboard’s Top 200 and #4 on the Top Independent Album chart?

R: Pretty damn good. These days it's hard for any band to sell records – let alone a metal band from Cleveland.

Do you feel that myspace is a good publicity outlet for the band?

Absolutely. Anybody can wander onto the site and instantly hear our music, check out the tour dates, or just look around. It's a great network.

Why did the band part ways with RoadRunner?

Mainly because they did not share our vision. There were some great people there, but mainly it was a constant uphill battle for us. At Roadrunner, if you're not producing radio hits they put your resume' back on the bottom of the pile. We wanted to try our luck with a different label that expressed an all around love for Chimaira, and we've found that with Ferret.

Do you feel you have more creative freedom with Ferret records?

We certainly had creative freedom with Roadrunner, but now our creativity will be examined more closely.

What are you most proud of in regards to Resurrection?

I'd have to say...the songwriting. It takes a lot of experience to become a great songwriter, especially in metal. I feel that we're finally starting to get a grasp of it.

Was there a central point of inspiration for this album?

Just to make it as bad-ass as possible.

How did this last tour go?

The tour went great! It seemed to be sold out every night, and there were great crowds. We made a lot of new friends on the tour as well. Also, props to Killswitch Engage they deserve a lot of respect.

When you’re in the studio do you miss the road?

Not so much anymore. When I was younger, all I wanted was to tour constantly. Now, I like the laid back vibe of the studio so much more.

Do you find that it is hard to balance a “normal” life at home when you spend so much time on the road?

Na- I'm used to it by now. Once you've been touring for this long it's simply just a way of life now.

When you are not on the road or in the studio how do you spend your free time?

Pretty much just chilling. I love hanging with my wife and my friends -- watching movies or tv or just laughing.

What would you like to say to your fans?

Tell your friends about us!

Be sure to catch Chimaira this summer on the Sounds of the Underground Tour.

For more info visit: www.chimaira.com or www.myspace.com/chimaira