Chimaira speaks

Since their inception in '99, metal band Chimaira has had more members come and go than the Bills have had quarterbacks. With the upcoming release of their album "Resurrection," they were able to reunite with drummer Andols Herrick, an integral member of the past, and emerge unshackled by censorship.

"Getting Andols back made 100 percent of the difference," said rhythm guitarist Matt DeVries in an interview with The Spectrum. "Before he came back Mark and Chris weren't happy with the band at all. Having him back was a breath of fresh air. It really lit a fire under our asses."

While the band was evolving in one aspect, there was another medium bringing them down. DeVries divulged why they left their original label, Roadrunner Records.

"Roadrunner started us up and we'll always be grateful for that," he said. "But with the last record they really dropped the ball and basically didn't do shit for us."

The switch to Ferret Records was much needed and DeVries wasn't at all hesitant about sending compliments their way.

"The switch has been nothing but positive," he said. "Ferret has pushed the hell out of us and marketed us harder than anyone did before. And the new record hasn't even come out yet!"

In regards to the sound of the new record, DeVries stated that it's more of a return to their original style than anything else.

"We took a laid back approach," said DeVries. "We weren't signed to a label at the time. We got Andols back and just jammed as friends like we used to. It's a really honest record. Everything we wrote is just Chimaira."

Any fan of Chimaira knows that it's not just their music that sets them apart from the rest of today's acts, but their album artwork as well. In a time where artwork has become almost entirely computer processed and bland, Chimaira have stayed true to their roots and continue to release albums that are as aesthetically appealing as they are musically satisfying.

"Artwork definitely makes a difference," said DeVries. "We use these bold, iconic symbols that make a statement without being too flashy or too cluttered."

He stated that the band wants to be recognized in stores as something different. With a flooding of bands in the metal scene, it's often hard to find one of value. DeVries had some things to say about the dilemma.

"I feel that it's oversaturated. I watch Headbangers Ball and I don't know half of the bands that they play. I just hope that this whole emo/screamo thing goes away."

Devries did mention that there's hope in the form of bands such as Killswitch Engage, a group that is currently on the rise.

The massive tour that Chimaira has just embarked upon happens to feature the aforementioned Killswitch Engage, DragonForce, and He Is Legend.

"This tour is balls out, it's such an eclectic tour. Every band has its own unique thing to offer. The show is gonna be incredible."

Even with their rising status in the metal world and their increasing opportunities Chimaira remains loyal to their friends and fans. When asked about Stemm, the little band from Buffalo that could, DeVries explained Chimaira's loyalty.

"Stemm is a good band with a lot of potential, it sucks that they're still not signed. We love to help our friends out. We got signed by bands helping us out so we believe that it's only right to do the same."

Don't miss the chance to remain loyal to Chimaira and see them along with Killswitch Engage, DragonForce, and He Is Legend this Sunday at The Dome Theater in Niagara Falls at 7 p.m.