Shamara, Drummer for Matriarch
1. Describe your sound for new listeners.
Matriarch is a metal band influence by many genres of metal. The songs display aggression and melody, as well as speed and intensity. A main reason we are given such a wide range to work with is due to our three sets of vocals; guttural, grim, and operatic. If you would like a more simple answer, I can give it to you in one word: heavy.
2. In a place as beautiful as Puerto Rico, what draws you to such dark music?
People might have a misconception that Puerto Rico is a very beautiful place. In fact Puerto Rico has beautiful places but also it has many dark places. Like in many parts of the world metal has found its way even into the most remote places. As far as what draws me to this music is the great feeling of happiness and enjoyment every time I play the drums or listen to my favorites bands. This is music that I live for and also is a part of me.
3. How is the metal scene in Puerto Rico.
There are many metal bands in Puerto Rico but the scene is very small, basically half of the people are in bands and the other half are fans.
4. Have you had a chance to play shows outside of Puerto Rico?
Yes, we have played twice in Florida; in January 2005 we played in Jacksonville, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa with The Chasm, Mortician, and Incantation. Also this past May we played in Orlando and Tampa.
5. Matriarch has very strong, powerful vocals. Is there any formal voice training involved?
As far as vocal training is concerned, it only applies to our soprano Vanessa. She studied classical music and was for many years in the Chorus of San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, and graduated a couple of years ago. The other two singers in the band, Isabel and Ara, just happen to have a natural talent with their voices to create their grim and guttural sound.
6. Given the opprotunity would you like to tour the states and Europe?
Why not? Of course we would love to tour the states and Europe.
7. Personally, what does playing metal mean to you?
Metal means everything for me. Playing metal for me is something that makes me happy, is a passion of mine that makes who I am. I played drums since I was 13 years old, and I will never stop playing drums unless I am physically incapable.
8. The name Matriarch refers to the power of women. How do feel about so many outstanding women in metal today?
I am very happy that with time more and more women are playing metal or sing in a metal band. We can do what men do or better, is good to show some people that are close minded that metal is not only for men, but for everybody, men and women.
9.Who are some of your biggest musical influences?
My biggest influences are Nicholas Barker, Pete Sandoval, and Ventor. Also I am influenced by many bands like: Sodom, Kreator, Destruction, Morbid Angel, Old Sepultura, Dimmu Borgir, Therion, Hypocrisy, and Death, just to name a few.
10. With so many bands out today from all over the world, who are a few you think really stand out from the crowd?
My favorite bands are my influences but I also can mention: Dissection, Slayer, After Forever, Old Man's Child, Immolation, Arch Enemy, and Immortal.
11. So what can we expect in the future from Martriarch, any tour plans, new material etc...
Right now Matriarch is working with the recording of the first album that will be finished at the end of this year.
12. What would you like fans to get from your music?
I want people to appreciate the intensity of the music, taking them to a place outside their own reality and experiencing something that will leave a lasting impression in their minds.