Devil's Gate Music
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Texas-based New Wave of Traditional Heavy Metal/New Wave of Thrash Metal outfit XIL are set to release their new album ‘Rip & Tear’ February 25th, and the trio was on hand to answer questions fired at them for our ‘Introduction to XIL’…
What are the origins of the band, how long have you been playing together?
All going to the same high school, we found each other through classes and friends. (Drummer) Jordan Hoffart, (guitarist) Joseph Aguilar, (Bassist/ Frontman) Austin James, and (Former Guitarist) Quinten Serna formed the band in late 2013. Having to part ways with Quinten in 2019, the band has been operating as a trio and has been playing for more than 8 years!
What should people expect when they check the band out? How would you describe yourself?
Musically, definitely expect some twists and turns. We aren’t scared to cross the lines into other styles to make something that sounds good to us. Basically, if Venom, Tank, Razor, Black Sabbath, and Carnivore had a bastard child that kneels at the altar of Motorhead; that’s us!
How did you feel performing your first gig as a band, and how was it?!
It was the most freeing 20 minutes we’d experienced at that point of our young lives. Playing for 4 or 5 people we gave it our all, as everyone should!
The new music scene is bursting at the seams at the minute with fresh talent, in what ways do you feel that a band has to stand out to build a name for themselves?
You have to try and create a unique sound. No one wants a carbon copy of another band. Also, try to stand out image-wise, and in your live performance. They are pivotal parts of a band that complement each other that will make you stick out!
What are you working on at the minute that people can check out?
Right now we have a 3 track demo out called ‘Breakneck Rock N’ Roll’, and the ‘Breakneck’ Single out on YouTube and band camp. We are releasing another single called ‘Speedemons’ in support of the upcoming release on Feb 25th out on Confused Records!
In terms of a similar audience, which band out there at the minute do you feel you would be best suited to open for?
Probably Bands like Bewitcher, Sabïre, BAT, Enforcer, Haunt, and others of kind!
Excluding yourself! which new band would you like to see break out and become a success?
Probably Bewitcher and our friends in Black Jackal. Killer bands who work hard and grind to the bone for their craft!
What are your own first musical memories? And what was the lightbulb moment that made you go “I want to do that”?
(Jordan) First musical memory is probably seeing a small-time rock band playing at a mall. Remember getting a poster signed and thinking it was the coolest thing. Always was really into music but didn’t think about playing for people seriously until Joseph convinced me.
(Austin) Watching Yellow Submarine with my Dad. Didn’t want this to be my life until I was 12 & first heard the Ramones ‘Mania’ compilation.
(Joe) Definitely hearing AC/DC and Scorpions on live albums, and seeing an Alan Jackson show at the age of 4 or 5, and hearing a crowd in person, I knew that this is all I wanted to do was play live.
What was the last gig that you attended as a fan?
(Jordan) Last gig attended just to go see a show was probably Marty Friedman at the RockBox before Covid.
(Austin) She Past Away, about a month ago
(Joseph) Iron Maiden pre covid
What current social issue are you particularly passionate about?
Well, we don’t really like to push or advocate our own personal views with the band. We strongly believe that social/political issues don’t belong in Rock N’ Roll period.
The album that you have in your album collection/Spotify playlist that would surprise most people?
(Jordan) Either Jefe Maxo-Ground Zero or MusicalBasic’s Musical Stories
(Austin) Moody Blues ‘Nights in White Satin’, Ghost ‘Prequelle’ Marty Robbins ‘Gunfighter Ballads’
(Joseph) Either David Allan Coe – Longhaired Redneck, or Robert Johnson – King of the Delta Blues Singers.
Although 2021 was another year to forget, there were some amazing new albums released, what would be your album of last year?
Maybe Cursed by Thy Kingdom- Bewitcher. Way too many to pick from!
What does 2022 hold for you?
2022 is definitely bringing some firsts for us. Putting out our first full length ‘Rip and Tear’! Touring the states is a big one, some shows overseas and some festival appearances in the fall!
How active are you on social media and where can people connect with you?
We try to be as active as we can on social media. Right now the main platforms are going to be Instagram and Facebook. But we are going to start branching out to a few more in the near future.
