Jessie David of Metal Wani had a chance to chat with Greg Mackintosh of PARADISE LOST. The two discussed how he’s keeping busy during COVID19, the release of their upcoming album OBSIDIAN, the overall sound of the band, how he continues to write fresh riffs and his side project STRIGIO.
During this time, like everyone, Greg is feeling a little bit stir crazy, but luckily he just finished up his new at-home studio. Saying the hardest part is finding motivation and making goals. He’d love to be touring right now, but unfortunately that’s not an option.
Good and exciting news though is that on May 15th Paradise Lost release its 16th studio album ‘Obsidian’ When asked by Nuclear Blast if they wanted to release the album on time the members of Paradise Lost all agreed that it was important to keep to the schedule and utilize art. Greg described the album as being eclectic saying “It’s a little bit introspective, a little bit reflective, quite sad.” When listening to the new album it seems to showcase elements of their career and Greg described it as “A musical biography of the band.” Whether you hear bits of ‘Draconian Times’ or ‘Medusa’, you will recognize a very familiar yet unique Paradise Lost.
Greg touched base on the writing of ‘Obsidian’ and how they took a whole new direction this time. Taking inspiration by how David Bowie used to write lyrics back in the day. Greg said, “I would send the vocalist a very short musical segment, no more than a few seconds, and I would get him to do as many different vocal styles as possible.” The band found this new writing style to be very effective and was one of the fastest writing sessions they’ve had.
Greg has been writing riffs for over decades and still manages to create fresh sounding melodies. When asked how he continues to write fresh riffs he said “ I just treat it as a learning curve, the whole thing. I just constantly have this thirst for knowledge.”
Now normally when a new album drops a tour is sure to follow, but with everything going on in the world Greg says it’s looking like next year for live music and touring but the band is hopeful that they’ll be able to play a few shows in September.
