Phil Bozeman, the powerful vocalist of deathcore band Whitechapel, dives deep into his musical roots and the unique sound of his genre. He discusses the evolution of heavy music, touching on nostalgic influences and modern innovations like reversed lyrics. The challenges of staying authentic in the face of social media pressures are explored, alongside the excitement of live improvisation. Phil also teases the band's upcoming album, hinting at a heavier return that fans can look forward to.
Phil Bozeman humorously contrasts the climates of Tennessee and Florida, showcasing his adaptable personality and commitment to American life.
The upcoming Whitechapel album continues the narrative from 'This Is Exile', emphasizing a return to their heavy and brutal musical roots.
Bozeman's willingness to engage with fans on Reddit demonstrates his desire for open communication and commitment to building personal connections.
Deep dives
Phil Bozeman's Move to Florida
Phil Bozeman, the vocalist of Whitechapel, discusses his transition from a much colder climate in Tennessee to the heat of Florida. He humorously contrasts the intense humidity of Florida with the freezing winters he is used to, emphasizing his preference for warmth over cold. Bozeman notes that while he is adjusting to the climate, he is fully committed to embracing American life, mentioning humorous elements like displaying the American flag and obtaining a shotgun. This light exchange showcases his adjustment period and brings a relatable touch to his celebrity persona.
Upcoming Whitechapel Music
The podcast delves into Whitechapel's upcoming music, revealing that their new album is a direct lyrical sequel to 'This Is Exile', continuing the narrative laid out in their previous works. Bozeman explains the intentionality behind this progression, citing their desire to return to their heavy roots after exploring different musical styles in their previous albums. He expresses a passion for heavy music, which fuels the band's creative direction, indicating that their forthcoming work will maintain a focus on brutal and aggressive elements. The insight into this creative process reflects the band's strong commitment to its musical identity.
Exploration of Vocal Techniques
Bozeman shares his experiences with vocal techniques, highlighting his dedication to authenticity in his performances. He discusses moments in the studio where he pushed his limits vocally, even stating that he nearly passed out striving for genuine emotion in his screams. The conversation touches upon the various modern vocal techniques and the evolution of deathcore vocals, including his experimentation with high screams and gutturals that challenge his previous vocal boundaries. This exploration reveals Bozeman's commitment to growth and his efforts to evolve his craft while staying true to his heavy roots.
Engagement with Fans on Reddit
Bozeman recounts his decision to engage with fans on Reddit, an uncommon platform for artists, illustrating his desire for open communication with his audience. He acknowledges the potential risks of using such a public forum but seems to enjoy the interaction, aiming to share the vibe of their new music directly with fans. This move reflects the band's understanding of the modern music landscape, where personal connections can strengthen their presence and relevance within the community. His willingness to face fans directly underscores a humble approach to fame that resonates with dedicated listeners.
Anticipation for Future Collaborations
The discussion touches on potential collaborations and the future trajectory of Whitechapel's music, particularly in blending genres like metal and hip-hop. Bozeman expresses interest in the unique fusion that has emerged in contemporary music, while also remaining skeptical about his ability to contribute to genres outside of metal. He acknowledges the artistry present in modern production methods, emphasizing the importance of creating music that 'smacks' and elicits real emotions from listeners. This forward-looking perspective showcases his adaptability and openness to new musical influences while remaining rooted in his identity as a metal artist.
