Jesse Leach (Killswitch Engage, Times of Grace, The Weapon)
Sep 7, 2021
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Jesse Leach, frontman of Killswitch Engage and Times of Grace, dives deep into his musical journey, discussing the emotional roller coaster of their latest album. He shares insights into his punk project, The Weapon, and the struggles that led to his departure and eventual return to Killswitch Engage. The conversation touches on mental health awareness, the impact of the pandemic, and the inspiration behind his music. With honesty, Jesse reflects on resilience, connection, and achieving personal growth through his artistry.
Jesse Leach discusses the evolution of his punk project The Weapon, emphasizing its roots in the mid-90s hardcore scene and his creative exploration.
The new Times of Grace album reflects Leach's personal experiences with loss and recovery, showcasing his dedication to vulnerability in songwriting.
Leach candidly shares his journey with mental health and vocal health, highlighting their influence on his artistic expression and career.
Deep dives
The Artistic Journey of Jesse Leach
Jesse Leach, primarily known for his role in Killswitch Engage, discusses his diverse musical influences and projects, particularly his hardcore punk band, The Weapon. This band reflects his early musical roots, rooted in the hardcore scene of the mid-90s, and serves as a creative outlet for him to explore different sounds. The conversation highlights his passion for punk music, with references to bands like Discharge and Minor Threat, which underscores the significant impact of the New England music scene on his journey. Leach expresses enthusiasm for The Weapon’s evolution, hinting at upcoming material that continues to push boundaries and grow artistically.
The Release of Times of Grace
Leach also shares insights about the long-awaited new album from Times of Grace, which surprised fans given his busy schedule with Killswitch Engage. The album, created over several years, showcases a departure from typical metalcore sound and emphasizes artistic exploration and emotional depth. Leach reflects on the cathartic nature of writing and recording, engaging with themes of loss and recovery stemming from his own life experiences, including a divorce. The poignant lyrics are autobiographical, highlighting the healing power of music and his dedication to expressing vulnerability through art.
Navigating Mental Health Challenges
Throughout the conversation, Leach candidly addresses his struggles with mental health, illustrating how they have shaped his artistic expression and personal growth over the years. He explains how his mental health issues intensified during his early fame, leading to periods of isolation and depression. Sharing his journey from feeling overwhelmed to becoming an advocate for mental health, Leach emphasizes the importance of open discussions about mental health within the music community. His honesty about coping mechanisms and the emotional turmoil he has experienced resonates with fans, allowing them to find comfort in his story.
The Impact of Vocal Surgery
Leach reveals the challenges he faced with his vocal health, particularly describing the surgery he underwent to remove polyps on his vocal cords. His experience of vocal fatigue and the fear of losing his ability to perform were pivotal moments that forced him to re-evaluate his approach to singing. It was during recovery that he discovered new techniques and a deeper appreciation for his voice, ultimately leading to a more vibrant and rounded sound. He stresses the critical importance of proper vocal training and self-care, encouraging other vocalists to prioritize their health to avoid similar struggles.
The Future of Killswitch Engage
Looking ahead, Leach shares that Killswitch Engage is planning to work on new music, aiming for a collaborative approach reminiscent of the band's earlier dynamics. The desire to live and write together marks a shift from the usual process of sending files back and forth, indicating his commitment to rekindling a sense of creative unity within the band. As they prepare for upcoming tours and new albums, there is a palpable excitement about exploring new sounds and directions. Leach’s openness about the band’s evolution, his past experiences, and future endeavors demonstrates a growing maturity in both his music and personal journey.
Killswitch Engage / Times of Grace frontman Jesse Leach joins the show! As honest and as well spoken as they come, Jesse holds nothing back in this conversation. We discuss the emotional roller coaster of a new album from Times of Grace, his punk project The Weapon, and the whole story behind Jesse's departure - and re-entry into Killswitch Engage. A Must Listen.
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