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If you been around the underground scene in Seattle, or anywhere on the West Coast for that matter, you have heard the name Skarp. Started more than five years ago as a ska-punk band, Skarp has progressed into Seattle’s premiere grindcore band. Recently signed to Alternative Tentacles, Skarp is bringing grindcore to a whole new audience, whether they're ready for it or not.
Your sound is progressing; how would you describe it as it is on the new recording?
Joe: On the new record we have definitely progressed more as a band. The song structures are a lot more complex, the guitar and bass riffs have got way more intricate and there is a lot more range on the vocals. We have been playing together as a band for over five years; I think that helps a lot. We put a lot of work into this record and I’m super-happy with it.
Renae: I think that this release generally has a more metal edge than previously recorded material. More blasts, more grind! I’m also really happy with the way the recording turned out and it was really cool to be able to work with Billy Anderson, which was actually a lot of fun.
You guys have had several tours across the US and Europe already; are you planning more tours in support of the new CD?
Renae: We’ve been touring our asses off, and I’d really like to do at least two tours next year—East Coast and hopefully two months in Europe for sure. I’d also really love to tour Japan and Mexico; hopefully we can make that happen at some point.
Do you think that putting out a CD with a huge indie label like Alternative Tentacles—which has worldwide distribution—means that grindcore is becoming more popular?
Joe: I don’t think [grindcore] will ever reach mainstream popularity, the sound just isn’t palatable for the general population’s ears. If it is then you aren’t playing it right.
Renae: AT has definitely treated us really well thus far. There’s a super huge following in the underground [for grindcore], and there always has been. I also think that we’re really lucky to be working with a label that will get our record to every corner of the earth. I’m really excited to see what happens when the record is released and our music reaches a much wider audience.
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