After more than two decades together, Suicide Silence are preparing to release their eighth studio album, Graceless, on November 20. I recently caught up with bassist Dan Kenny to discuss the new record, the band's creative process, and a few things fans might not know about him outside of music.
When I asked Dan what he wanted to accomplish with Graceless, he compared the album to a Mike Tyson fight. He wasn't interested in easing anyone into it.
“I look at it as like kind of like trying to be like Mike Tyson. I wanted it to be a knockout, like first round violent, you know, just be aggressive and make people stoked, make people laugh about how heavy it is.”
The goal was to reconnect with the band's older roots while keeping things fresh and modern. Rather than overthinking the songwriting process, the members got together and let the music develop naturally. It was also the first album featuring drummer Ernie from start to finish.
Dan described wanting to recapture the excitement of being younger and getting together simply to write and play music. That meant putting distractions aside, leaving their phones alone and enjoying the creative process.
Watch my full interview with Dan Kenny below!
One of the album's more personal moments comes with “NVRFXLD,” a track dedicated to the band's friend Isaac, who passed away in a car accident. Isaac's acoustic guitar playing is featured at the end of the song, adding another meaningful layer to the tribute.
With a band that's been around for as long as Suicide Silence, fan reactions to new material are always part of the conversation. I asked Dan how he feels about listeners who may not have connected with some of the band's more recent releases.
He doesn't spend much time following online chatter, but he's happy when people enjoy what the band is putting out.
“As long as they like it, it makes me happy. Welcome back to liking us.”
Away from music, Dan keeps busy with UFC, football and his two dogs. He's also surprisingly competitive when it comes to bar trivia, playing once or twice a week.
When asked about his favourite Suicide Silence album, he picked The Black Crown, his first record writing and recording with the band. He also gave a few recommendations from the current metal scene, naming Peeling Flesh, Mauled and Rev3rent. Peeling Flesh particularly caught his attention for their live energy and ability to put on a fun show.
We also got into some of the lighter side of touring, including the costumes and characters Dan spots in the crowd. Banana Man has apparently made an impression, although there's one pretty funny catch: Dan isn't actually a fan of bananas. Watermelon, on the other hand, is much more his thing.
Suicide Silence are heading out on their Reminders of Hell North American Tour with Emmure, AngelMaker and Synestia.
Graceless arrives November 20 via Century Media Records. Be sure to check out the new album and catch Suicide Silence when they hit the road!
