Show notes
In this episode of The Adventures of Pipeman on W4CY Radio, Pipeman interviews Andrew from Metaladian, delving into the band's origins, creative process, and the personal stories behind their music. The conversation covers everything from Canadian metal roots to the technical side of metal music, generational influences, the cathartic nature of songwriting, and the darker sides of music and life experiences. The episode also features insights into Metaladian’s new album, multi-vocal approach, and the importance of authenticity in heavy music.Main Topics CoveredThe Origins of MetaladianAndrew's Canadian roots and musical journeyMoving across Canada and early exposure to metalJamming and early influences with his brotherMetaladian’s Musical EvolutionFrom teenage jams to classical guitar studiesBlending classical training with metal aggressionThe collaborative writing process with band membersThe Craft and Community of MetalThe misunderstood complexity and musicianship in metalGenerational differences and influences in the bandThe role of experimentation and unique sounds in metal’s historyTechnique & PracticeThe challenge of learning instruments as leftiesThe dedication and practice required in mastering instrumentsIncorporating diversity and multi-instrumentalismAlbum Deep DiveStructure and themes of Metaladian’s debut albumUsing personal and collective trauma as catharsisBreakdown of album acts and the narrative behind eachVocal Styles and Multi-Vocal ApproachThe power and depth brought by multiple vocalistsComparisons to bands like Origin, Spiritbox, and JinjerDiscussion on vocal technique and the evolution within metalLife’s Lessons and Overcoming AdversityStories of escaping toxic environments and cult-like figuresChanneling life challenges into creative outputThe positive impact of teaching music and inspiring othersResources and ConnectivityWhere to find Metaladian’s music, merch, and social mediaKey Discussions & StoriesEarly Metal Days & Moving AroundAndrew discusses his Ottawa birth, cross-country upbringing, and how family and travel influenced his music (01:04–01:17).Pipeman shares his journey from New Jersey to California and falling into the thriving LA metal scene of the '80s (01:29–01:58).Musical Beginnings and InfluencesThe brothers’ early jams, diving into AC/DC, Metallica, Megadeth, and the role of Much Music's Power Hour in discovering new bands (05:06–05:57).Nostalgia for seeing Metallica and Slayer's early shows and reflecting on scene evolution (06:00–06:47).The Writing and Recording ProcessDeveloping a three-album arc, writing harmonies on classical guitar, and the influence of disciplined study (09:02–09:46).Bringing in younger bassist Dustin Smith for fresh energy (09:37).Lefties in MusicBoth Andrew and Pipeman share their unique challenges and strategies as left-handed musicians (15:05–16:05), including adapting to right-handed instruments and developing ambidextrous skills.Personal Story Behind the AlbumThe cathartic process, themes of victimhood, depression, cults, and psychic confrontation (25:37–29:46).Using songwriting as a tool for healing and reclaiming emotions (32:04–32:19).Teaching and the Value of MusicAndrew's role as a music teacher, witnessing students' growth, and the universal benefits of learning music or art (32:31–33:05).Notable Quotes“Metal is a derivative of classical music anyway.” – Pipeman (10:54)“It seemed to just grow from note to note, instead of riff to riff.” – Andrew...

