SIMPLY SIX: Verismo

Verismo is a trash metal outfit from New York.

1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they knew they wanted to be a singer. For many it was the appearance of Elvis on the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance on Sullivan half a decade later. Is there such a defining moment for you?


Yes, absolutely....My father decided to set up his small drumset in our new house's basement as soon as the building was completed (he had played in R&R bands in his youth)...I got really excited about that and just days later Freddy Mercury (Queens) passed away and there was The Memorial concert in Wembley stadium, London. I was listening to Metallica for a while at that point when they performed at this show....they blew me away....decision was made "I wanna be a drummer"... HUGE inspiration



2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?


I have been listening to the classic metal/hard rock records of course for a while, which hasn't stopped much, although I am always looking to discover some newer releases. Besides that I am very open to other styles as long as it's good music...Jazz, Funk, Classical...you name it



3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?


I guess that would be recording our first album, City Of Kings. Basically the drums and rhythm guitars for the entire record was recorded in ONE take, no repeats, overdubs or anything. That was a 10-song package, well rehearsed...the engineer couldn't believe it....LOL



4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?


Oh, music has great influence on ppl. I am not sure if it can change the world (that's politics) but certainly can state a point of view and that's mostly controversial to what's going on in the world. I'd rather say music, musicians are influenced by current events and we are expressing them broader and braver. Although music can get a person thru rough times!



5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?


Enormous effect on the industry. I believe it has great potential in the near future but it hasn't been really figure out yet. Established acts have advantage of the system since they have a huge fan base that they can reach online without record labels and such but for newer acts it's very hard to get recognition. We're going thru some serious transition which is pretty difficult at the moment. Only the strongest and the best acts will survive.



6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?


Comfortable, long lasting and suitable for the job.