Interview Interrogation: Mick from Corners Of Sanctuary (USA)

The American Metal scene is so vast and so populated with metal bands that trying to name them all in one go would be near to impossible as you can get. That said, there are those who make progress and make a name for themselves, on the conveyor belt of progression are Pennsylvania's Corners of Sanctuary. GMA caught up with guitarist / keyboardist Mick to find out what drives this concrete force.

"If you like all that is Amish, we have Lancaster, which is home to one of the State's best and well-known all-you-can-eat buffets" - (Mick on what to do in Pennsylvania)

Since your latest release 'Metal Machine', what has the COS horde been up to?

          "Not too much. Since “Metal Machine” came out we released three music videos as part of the album's promotional campaign (“Left Scarred,” “Wrecking Ball” and “Tomorrow Never Comes”). Shortly after “Metal Machine,” we released a Holiday album last December. We’ve been touring as well to support the album which has included shows with Butcher Babies, Grim Reaper, Green Jello and Act of Defiance.

          We have a new band member, Mad T, on drums. We are set to release a best of compilation on July 26th titled “Declaration of Metal.” The compilation will have tracks from each of our albums plus a brand new song. A music video will also accompany the compilation's release. Along with more shows this summer into the fall, we will begin working on recording our next album in August and look to release it sometime in 2017. So like I said, not too much."


You signed to Metalizer Records for the release of 'Metal Machine', surely this has to be a step forward for the band?

          "Signing with Metalizer Records has been great for us… a lot of new doors have opened. The label really supports what we are doing and has offered us the opportunity to expand our fan base. Our market reach has definitely increased. It has been a great experience."


What is the current status of the Pennsylvania Metal scene? Is it alive and well?

          "The music scene here is alive and well and it’s very diverse. Metal definitely has its loyal contingent but it is somewhat one-sided with respects to the genre style of choice. The majority of Metal bands seem to lean more towards the heavier to extreme styles. The classic, traditional sound, like that of Corners of Sanctuary, is more of a niche and a small niche at that. The upside to that for us is that we are offering something different enough to get noticed. Another factor for us is that we do a lot of travel. So we are regularly in other markets and don't play our home area that often…  when we do it’s always something special."


Is it hard nowadays for American Metal bands to make a name for themselves?

          "I think it's hard for any band, anywhere to make a name for themselves. There is so much music available and so many bands out there that it is easy to get lost in the crowd. But the beauty is that listeners’ tastes run the gamut and there is a place for everyone. The key is to do something that is honest and true and not fake it. The fans can tell. Whatever it is you do, just do it well."

For those who don't know who COS are, could you give us a brief background history?

          "COS formed in early 2011 after a couple of us had been working on a short-term reunion project with the band Seeker. We wanted to get back to our musical roots and do what we weren't hearing at the time. After writing a handful of songs we released our first album, “Breakout”, in 2012. In 2013 we brought Frankie on board as lead singer. And this year we brought on Mad T as our new drummer. Since forming, the band has released four full-length albums, a Holiday album and a few EP's."


What hobbies / interests do you have outside of your day job and band work?

        "Spending time with my family is how I indulge most of my free time. Hanging out with them and watching movies and eating Asian cuisine is always great. I also actively pursue health and fitness. I believe it to be an essential part of maintaining quality of life. And I enjoy studying Eastern philosophy and culture. I find it gives me perspective."


Will you be doing a nationwide tour anytime soon? Have you performed outside of the USA before?

          "Already this year we have done an East Coast and Midwest tour of the US in support of “Metal Machine”. We will be doing a short New England tour in late July and part of the fall. To date, we have yet to performed outside the United States but are looking to go to Germany in 2017. We are keeping our fingers crossed."


For those visiting Pennsylvania, what attractions should metal fans check out?

        "Depending on your interests we have the PA Grand Canyon and Valley Forge for those nature and history buffs. If you like all that is Amish, we have Lancaster, which is home to one of the State's best and well-known all-you-can-eat buffets. And of course there is the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia...plenty there to do and see: South Street, the historic district, Chinatown and Penn's Landing. You’ll definitely find some great restaurants and a thriving nightlife. For those who like to gamble and catch a show, Atlantic City is only a stone's throw away."


Finally have you got any greetings you wish to send out?

        "Thank you Rhys for speaking with me and giving us the opportunity to share with your readers some info on Corners of Sanctuary. We also would like to thank all of our friends and fans who have supported us - we are so very grateful!

          A special thanks to our COS Staff as well as to our labels Metalizer Records and Exquisite Noise Records, and to our sponsors Coldcock Whiskey, Sinister Guitar Picks, George L's Guitar Cables and Explore Apparel."


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