Mike LePond is the bassist for the progressive metal band Symphony X , as well as his other project, which is called Mike LePond's Silent Assassins .
Along with Symphony X, LePond is coming to Brazil for three shows: July 26th in Belo Horizonte at Mister Rock , July 27th in São Paulo at Tokio Marine Hall , and finally, July 28th in Curitiba at Tork N' Roll .
In an exclusive interview with Wikimetal , the musician talked about his time in the band, his visit to Brazil, his future plans, and more!
Check out the full interview:
Wikimetal: You've been playing in Symphony X for over two decades. How do you feel the band has changed since then?
Mike LePond: Musically, I think we've gotten heavier and we write better songs than we used to. I also think that with maturity we get along better than ever. Twenty-five years later, we all understand that what we do isn't just for fun, but a business to be taken seriously.
WM: It's been 10 years since you released an album with Mike LePond's Silent Assassins. What made you decide to create this project?
ML: My first love isn't progressive music. It's traditional heavy metal, and I always wanted to play in a project like that. I had a lot of songs in that genre that didn't fit on the Symphony X albums. With Silent Assassins, I was able to release those songs and show my fans where my roots come from.
WM: Progressive metal has never been one of the most popular metal genres. How do you perceive the style today?
ML: I think the style started out really well with bands like Symphony X and Dream Theater , but then it got worse. I feel like there are a lot of great progressive bands, but there are also a lot of them that lack emotion. They became more concerned with showing off instead of writing great songs.
WM: If you could assemble a "big four" of progressive metal, which bands would you choose?
ML: Dream Theater, Symphony X, Queensrÿche and Fates Warning .
WM: What are your future plans? Maybe something with Symphony X or solo?
ML: Symphony X is writing songs for a new album. It should be finished by the end of next year.
WM: What are your expectations for the upcoming shows here in Brazil?
ML: My first show with Symphony X was in Brazil in 2000. They proved to be the most interesting audience to play for. I expect nothing less than a show filled with incredible passion and love from both sides of the stage. Brazil is my favorite place to play.
WM: Besides the concerts, what do you like most about the country?
ML: I've been coming to Brazil for over twenty years and I've fallen in love with this country. The people are so kind and genuine. I have so many wonderful memories of friendships there. Brazilians are like family to me. Looking forward to another adventure there!
READ ALSO: Symphony X wins over audience with technique and charisma at Monsters of Rock 2023
