In Corona Corner, we are asking musicians how the outbreak has effected them, how did they adapt to the situation, what did they learn. Guitar player Lucas Munoz shares his Corona experience with us today.
Hi! How are you doing during corona outbreak?
Hey! Well, luckily we’re out and in the clear now! Honestly, it’s been a massive pain in the ass, and I’m beyond relieved that, for the most part, it’s over for us. There’s still the occasional mask we have to throw on now and again when we travel, but other than that we’re completely done with the coof.
What have you cancelled/postponed due coronavirus?
Too much. Obviously, this virus has thrown a wrench in everything. Work-life, family life, social life, BAND LIFE…hell there was a point where every corner WAS a covid corner. Shows, song releases, rehearsals, and even auditions were put on hold because of this damned plague. And we’re just now finally starting to bounce back!
How the global coronavirus pandemic is directly impacting bands?
Ya know, it’s been somewhat of a Big Sort for the industry- in more than one way at that. I believe that the heaviest impact has been the dispersal of so many bands. Countless musicians let go of their instruments and aspirations, and it really has made for a depressing state of affairs. The wheat really has been separated from the chaff here.
How are you keeping your fans during this chaotic period?
We’ve stayed connected. We’re lucky to have most of our fan base, quite literally, near to our hearts…at home. We stay in contact with the guys and gals who we see on a regular basis around town and on social media, and we are beyond grateful for those out-of-towners who stay interested.
What will metal look like when we re-emerge from isolation?
It’s hard to say. As I’d mentioned before, a lot of people are out of the game now, and if I’m being optimistic that means the old guard is gone. Now we let the new blood flow into the scene, and see what kind of fucked up energy emerges from their pain. Ya know, when 2020 hit, we entered a new, bizarre upside-down reality that hasn’t gotten better since. There’s a wave of dark heavy music coming, metal or not.
Who will suffer the most after all: musicians, organizers promoters…
Easily organizers and promoters. They handle the most risk and are easily much more involved than musicians. Not to mention, a guitarist can always buy back a guitar he sold for rent. The same can’t be said for a bar.
What is your isolation soundtrack?
The album “Ofnir” by Heilung. If you know you know. If you don’t, it’s healing.
Besides gigs, what/whom do you miss the most?
Besides gigs, huh?? Well if I’m being honest, I miss the beginning of the pandemic when everyone stayed home! GIGS EXCLUDED, God, I wish there were fewer idiots on the road again! Everyone was quarantined for a year, they shit out their damned brains, and forget how to fucking drive!
Do you have any rehearsals during quarantine? If yes, how do they look like?
Yes, all of the time. Even when the Pandemic was at its worse, we gathered for practice and writing sessions. The only thing that matters to us is the work at hand, and the thing that brings us together is the trust that we have for each other. We wrote an album, recorded it, and have performed those new songs across the United States during the pandemic. If you work with people who share your vision and share your trust, everything is possible.
Thank you so much for your time. Stay safe!
Thanks, you too
