Interview w/TK Drummer of STeel Kingdom

MZ666: How was the band formed?

Steel Kingdom:Tim Vogt started the band around 3 years ago with Sean Williams.

MZ666: Where did the band name originate?

Steel Kingdom:Originally the band was called Pitch Black but we were forced to change it to Steel Kingdom as there was another Pitch Black who were on a small label in Texas. We did not want to stir the pot once we got out of the gate with our album. Like everyone else, we threw a bunch of names around and this one stuck to the wall.

 MZ666:Tell me about your band - How long have you been together, how did you all meet, etc?

Steel Kingdom:Tim , Brian, and me have know each other for a long time going back to when Tim shredded with Nasty Trast and I drummed for Atlantis ( The good old Backstreet days!). We jammed in the same building but in different rooms. The bands used to pop in and out of each others rooms all the time. We used to go see each other play live and did a few shows together. I knew it was only a matter of time until we hooked up. After those projects came to an end the three of us got together wrote a bunch of material several years ago that absolutely slammed but we did not have a singer. Sean was in a band called Prowler who was also doing well at the time. When the four of us finally got together, we knew we were onto something special. Each member helps in their own unique way with their capabilities and other assets that are brought to the table. There is a lot more to this than just making music. Perhaps someday we can just concentrate on making music and let other folks handle the other issues that go along with this project.

Steel Kingdom:Call it what you want as long as metal is attached. It’s some sort of metal weather it be heavy, power, symphonic, speed, etc… We combine a lot of ingredients into our music. Each song on our album has its own identity and personality and we like to capture a lot of different areas, techniques, and time signatures. 

Steel Kingdom: The answer to that one would be different depending on who you ask. But since I’m giving the interview, it would be Iron Maiden, Ozzy, early Metallica, Van Halen and Steel Kingdom. If it was an individual lineup, the cast of Dream Theater would be my choice.

Steel Kingdom:Tim and Sean do the writing. I like what they write about too. It is not the ghost and goblin type thing. Typically, it surrounds an aspect of life and the peaks and valleys that are associated with it. Real creative and not offensive to anyone. They are pretty clever when they collaborate together.

MZ666:What is your favorite song to perform? Why? 

Steel Kingdom:The Cleansing. It is this climatic ballad that you can literally feel the song and crowd move along to. No matter what type of music you like, this song will stick with you. This was hard to answer because I have fun with all of them; especially the one’s with ballistic drumming.

MZ666:How many releases do you have out right now?

Steel Kingdom:One full length self titled debut. Currently available at the House of Guitars, Webster Music Store, Heavy Metal Records, Sound Source, FYE, and our website. It also gets played on SIRIUS Satellite Radio along with the local programming.  We have enough material for a second album and are waiting for the right time to record and release it.

MZ666:Anything you guys do before a show to get pumped up?

Steel Kingdom:The week before during rehearsal when we finalize the set list; I think we practice like we are actually playing in front of a big crowd. Hair, heads, and bodies flying everywhere! Visualizing the show beforehand helps in the psychological department. We also encourage each other and let the other members know that we are there for support.

MZ666:What was your most memorable show? Why?

Steel Kingdom:Up to this point I would say our headlining show at the Water Street Music Hall. Everything went according to plan which rarely ever happens. Plus, we hired this company to come in and shoot a professional video which really came out awesome.

MZ666:What are some of your  favorite place's to play?

Steel Kingdom:Backstreets (R.I.P.), Penny Arcade, Water Street, Steel, Buffalo, and we just got asked to play CBGB in NY City.

MZ666:Do you have any advice for people starting a band?

 Steel Kingdom:I would suggest keeping it pretty simple to start out. Easy cover tunes and catchy originals. Know your limits and set some goals. A plan of attack is critical.

MZ666:What is your impression of the Metal music scene?

Steel Kingdom:I think there is a lot of talent in this area. I have seen it for over 20 years. Some of it is so amazing. But I think Led Zeppelin would have never made it out of Rochester.  Sad but true.

MZ666:Who are some of the influences on your band?

Steel Kingdom:Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Ozzy, Slayer, Metallica, Queensryche, Saxon, Raven, Kiss, Van Halen, Dream Theater, Led Zeppelin, Rush, Anvil, Dio, Motorhead; the list is endless. But what we are trying to do is keep some of that music and the bands who paved the way alive and well. The aforementioned bands played music the way it was meant to be played. And that is precisely what we are trying to do.

Steel Kingdom:Yes, I want to thank you first and foremost for your support of the local metal scene, having me in your forum, and keeping metal alive. I also would encourage people to visit our website www.steelkingdom.net and give us a shot.  There you can hear our music, grab our CD, see a live video and keep up with what we have planned. You will not be let down. We appreciate any and all feedback and take it all seriously. And good luck with your website, from what I see, I think it will do well. You are already off to a good start.