You have stated that the name of the band originates from your obsession of science and specifically parasites. What is it about parasites you like so much?
I guess I find their ability to live off a host without being able to sustain life on their own is interesting to me. The way they survive without contributing to their host or society around them, they remind me of alot of people I know in this newer generation of kids. I find alot of people nowadays are just leeches and I find alot of musical/lyrical inspiration from these types.
You recently did a show with Suicide Commando whom you say are one of your influences, what was this experience like?
Without sounding too much like a fanboy, it was pretty much a dream come true. I started the band off with more realistic goals, like having the DJ spin our song at the local club, or pressing an album. Opening for Suicide Commando was not a realistic goal back then, and we've come a long way since.
Do you dream, if so describe a vivid dream you have had?
I once fell aslsep with a nicotine patch on, which is a little scary because your dreams are insane. I don't remember the exact chain of events but it was dark with was lots of rain and neon lights. I think those vampires from blade 2 were in there somewhere too. There were broken piano keys on the ground, and some awesome music that I wish I remembered because it would've made an amazing song. Lots of blood too. I don't know what it means but I suggest everyone trys sleeping with a nicotine patch on, at least once. Although, I think it says not to on the box...
We all have turn ons that get us sexually excited, but what does the opposite and turns you off?
Most alternative models turn me off. Maybe its their delusions of making a career out of it. Or how they're starved for attention. It could be because their facebook "model page" have more likes than the band does hahaha.
I guess it's just the overall attitude of some
Is MyParasites your main form of income, if not what do you do as a job?
Unfortunately, any money made from MyParasites goes right back into the band for merch, equipment, travel expenses, ect.
We have income from our store "Requiem". Chloe and I opened an oddities/curiosity shop in Philadelphia just last summer.
I also do SEO work and graphic design.
You write a lot of songs about past relationships that have gone sour, but have you ever written a heartfelt love song at all?
Yes actually. They've never been officially released, or completely finished for that matter. But on occasion one of those types of songs will squeeze through. Maybe one might make its way onto the next album...
You are touring with Angelspit on their Wall Street Massacre tour, how do you feel your music compliments that of Angelspit?
Its very different, which I think makes us a good fit for the tour. Someone who came expecting one type of band is now hearing 3 different sounding bands. We've got dancier stompier songs, Cyanotics got mean guitars and drum and bass influences and Angelspit got their whole cyber punk thing going on. So theres something for everyone.
What is your favourite word and how do you use it?
– I'd hate to feed the stereotype, but being from Philly, I guess it'd be the word "Jawn". Which is basically a pronoun for just about everything. If you've ever seen the fresh prince of bel air, you know.
What was your best and worst subjects at school?
Biology and chemistry were my best subjects. Math was my worst. Not because I suck at math, but because it's fucking boring and I didn't care. I dropped out of high school for about 2 years, but eventually went back and finished.
Just how does your music help people cope with anger and depression in life?
I think everyone can relate to some things I write about. If someone just got out of a bad relationship, they can listen to songs like "emotional starvation" or "manipulator" and most likely relate. If theyre angry, the songs "hypnosis" or "paranoid" could help fuel their anger a bit Music is a release for everyone whether they write it, or listen to it.
What has been the hardest thing you have ever had to overcome in getting the music of MyParasites out to the masses?
– There are so many people making industrial music these days, and alot of them are in it for the wrong reasons. They don't have their hearts in it. They make other bands look bad. Why would anyone give us a chance when everything else out there is done so half-assed?
EBM isnt taken seriously anymore and is just shrugged off as another "terror-banana-goblin song"
So when a band comes through with some actual integrity, they get lost in a sea of jokers who are more preoccupied with wearing liquid latex and stage outfits rather than writing meaningful music.
But MyParasites is always charging and evolving and were experimenting with some different sounds, so we'll see what happens.
Did you ever imagine as a child that you would be in the well-respected band that you are now?
I didn't know I was in a well respected band haha.
But no, I never thought I'd be in a band. I liked music but never had patience to learn to play it until I got older. I dont remember what I wanted to be when I "grew up". Still don't know now.
Have you ever seen a therapist?
When I was younger I did for a while. It was kind of mandatory after I got expelled from school and almost burned down my house. I feel most therapists don't actually give a shit, especially when your insurance runs out. I wouldn't expect them to. It's a job and no one wants to work for free. Having real friends is better than having a therapist anyday.
So what’s on the card’s in the near future for MyParasites?
Finishing the wall street massacre tour. Our album is out NOW on Beyond Therapy Records, and we're planning a remix album for March 2013. Looking forward to writing new music and seeing what next year brings!
Thank you so much for giving Vampire Freaks this interview, is there anything you would like to add?
I just want to thank everyone who digs our music and goes to live shows. I've been around a bit, and if you don't come out to see the bands you like, then we're all fucked. Bands like us don't make any money, but when real fans come to shows and buy cds or merch, sometimes we don't lose money. Thats all I can hope for. That goes for promoters too, they're putting their cash on the line to bring you bands and djs and club nights. Support your local scene!
You recently did a show with Suicide Commando whom you say are one of your influences, what was this experience like?
Is MyParasites your main form of income, if not what do you do as a job?
Music is a release for everyone whether they write it, or listen to it.
