Introduction: Due to time constraints as regular individuals running Witching Buzz and focusing primarily on writing reviews, we are limited to publishing only one (occasionally two) review(s) per day. However, we strongly believe in providing greater exposure to deserving bands and musicians who have put in immense effort. As a result, we have launched a new section called “Witching Riffs: Behind the Sound.” In this section, we have crafted a series of intriguing questions that we pose to every band or musician who wishes to share more about their unique projects. While the questions remain the same for each participant, the diversity among bands ensures that the answers will be fascinating and diverse. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy this captivating journey as we delve into the minds and stories of these talented artists.
IRONRAT / UK
What drew you to the immersive and hypnotic sounds? How do you aim to captivate your listeners with this genre?
We don’t like to stick within the boundaries of a strict genre or do what’s expected of us.
We’ll spend hours crafting songs that defy generic stoner rock/metal and take you to unexpected places.
Can you share the story behind your band name? How does it reflect the essence of your music?
To be honest our old drummer said one day ‘what about Ironrat?’
It was dirty and heavy, and it just stuck. It does exactly what it says on the tin.
What are some unconventional or unexpected influences that have shaped your unique blend?
We all listen to a wide variety of music that informs our writing.
Artists like Massive attack, Portishead, Rory Gallagher, Small Faces, Curtis Mayfield, Ocean Colour Scene. Herbie Hancock, stand out outside the rock/metal field.
But you can really hear the blues in Martin’s solos, Wayne’s rhythmic patterns show elements of hip and trip hop, Gordon makes skilful use of a swing funk beat and Stuart’s bass often tries to support vocals like the vocal harmonies of the Mamas and the Papas.
How do you approach creating expansive and atmospheric soundscapes? What techniques or methods do you employ to achieve that signature vibe?
Dynamics play a big part, leaving space then blasting into a hulking, heavy passage.
We’re always conscious of the groove despite becoming far more adventurous with time signatures and changes since creating our debut.
Are there specific themes or emotions you seek to convey through your music? How do alternative music help you express those concepts effectively?
Bradford has a long-standing tradition of bleak, miserable music but we like to keep a bit of a positive edge.
Lyrically we looked to be a counterpoint to the social and political issues of the time, and trying to be real and personal but with an edge, no matter how dark and dirty it gets we still take listers on an emotional rollercoaster.
Share a remarkable moment or incident from your journey as a band that exemplifies the spirit of your music.
Opening bloodstock 2017, finishing our set with a blistering version of Weed Machine to chants of ‘Yorkshire, Yorkshire, Yorkshire!’
In what ways do you envision your music progressing or evolving in the future? Are there any new elements or experimental approaches you’d like to incorporate?
We’re always looking to evolve our sound and it’s becoming denser and more complex.
We’ve also been bringing in effects to help create vast soundscapes.
Is there a particular song in your discography that perfectly encapsulates the essence of your music? Please elaborate on its creation and significance.
We’d say Weed Machine is a notable example, heavy, but moving to a beautiful bluesy groove. So many listeners miss the lyrical content that’s more social observations of some good friends of ours rather than a straight-out ode to weed itself.
Are there any emerging or lesser-known artists within your music genre realm that you find inspiring or deserving of more recognition? Feel free to share their names and what you appreciate about their work.
We’re constantly surprised how few people follow Boss Keloid, they should be huge. A great inventive band that rewards with every listen.
Barbarian Hermit too, so good live, they hold your attention in the palm of their hand.
Deathchant, we supported them on their ‘waste’ tour they were great live, but that album is a stunner.
And more locally Damn Craters have massively impressed us.
What do you hope listeners experience or feel when they immerse themselves in your compositions? Is there a specific mood or sensation you aim to evoke?
A good friend once described us live as like ‘a slow-motion punch in the dick’ and it’s true we do love surprising listeners with a sudden heavy kick. But we also hope they catch the subtlety in there too, the quiet before the storm, the silence before the heavy and lyrically challenging the status quo.
Turbo Regime:
– Fuzz or distortion?
Amp overdrive and lots of it
– Analog or digital effects?
Analog for preference
– Sabbath or Zeppelin?
Deep Purple
– Heavy riff or mind-bending solo?
All hail the riff, but with a tasteful solo
– Vintage gear or modern equipment?
Early high gain amp era, mid 90s Peavey 5150 dual rectifier and such
https://www.facebook.com/ironrattheband
Label: Argonauta Records
PR: Grand Sounds Promotion
