Interview Interrogation: Jesse Dracman from Darkcell (Australia)

Australia has always had a rich history in rock and metal music, from the days of AC/DC to the modern reverberation of the Metalcore and Deathcore contingent alongside the hellish Black Metal underground. But aside from that, one genre that seems to be simmering underneath is Industrial Metal and it falls on to bands like Darkcell to keep that burning flame alive. Having released their self-titled album this year, vocalist Jesse Dracman was happy to chat to GMA about the band's history, the local scene and future plans among other things.

"Our annual Psycho Circus this November will close one of our most exciting years to date."

For those who have not heard of Darkcell, could you give us the back story to how the band formed and the meaning behind Darkcell?

     "Darkcell formed around 8 years ago initially as a studio project born from the ashes of a previous band Matt (guitars, electronics, production) and I had. We wanted to create a more Industrial heavy style that we love and grew up with. The debut album was half written when we got a call to open for Combichrist and the rest is history. 

     What is Darkcell? It’s open to interpretation and while we don’t claim to reinvent the wheel, we’ve certainly put our own definition out there. We’re the best band you’ve never heard!"


As an Industrial Metal band, do you feel the genre is not as prominent as it once was or is it amidst a revival?

     "It never went away. People just got distracted and missed a lot of good music."


How would you describe your sound without the use of genres?

     "Like a 4th of July fireworks extravaganza with all the intensity and finesse of a James Brown concert if he was possessed...was he?"


You released your self-titled album this year, what was the reception like?; have you had any fans get in touch from outside of Australia?

     "It was the best reaction we’ve received yet. The streams and reviews have been our finest yet. It’s been an exciting cycle for us."

Crowbar venue, Brisbane / Source: Zomato.com

Will you look to play outside of Australia in the foreseeable future or have you done already?

     "Always on our minds and we’ve toured Europe this year as well as the USA in 2015."


For metalheads visiting Brisbane, what sights / attractions would you recommend in seeing? What are the best bars and venues?

     "Crowbar!!! Netherworld!!!"


With 2019 closing up, what plans have you got between now and going into 2020? 

     "New music, bigger noise. Ain’t that always the aim? Here’s to a rad one. Our annual Psycho Circus this November will close one of our most exciting years to date."


Do you have any greetings, thank you's, etc that you wish to send out to friends, fans, etc?

     "We are forever grateful to the fans that continue to support us and to those just finding us, welcome. Hail!"

https://www.darkc3ll.com/
http://facebook.com/darkc3llofficial