Interview with Pete Devine of Pete’s Rock News and Views (http://petesrocknewsandviews.com)
PD: How would you describe yourself or your band as an artist?
MB: I consider Mortal Blood to be Gothic Doom Metal. The EP “Unholy Feast” is described as “a confluence of Doom, Gothic, and Black Metal” because there are elements of each in the music.
PD: Can you tell us briefly about your background – i.e. where you’re from, how you came to make music, etc.
MB: I grew up in Baltimore MD. The first record album I got was Kiss Destroyer, my father got it for me when I was ten years old. When I was a teen, was my father passed away and I escaped through music (mostly Ozzy). For years, music was a coping mechanism for me, now it’s just a way of life. Fast forward to 2020, I decided to work on writing music during the lockdowns. The result was the 5-song EP “Unholy Feast.”
PD: Who and what inspires you to make music, both in terms of musical and other influences? What do you like to write about in your songs?
MB: First, I need to credit my mentor and teacher Jason Aaron Wood. For me, music is about mood (it can be reciprocal). Musically, Black Sabbath and Candlemass were big influences. I like intense music and interesting lyrics. My upcoming EP is heavier and more intense than “Unholy Feast.” I find myself writing lyrics about life and death.
PD: What are your aspirations as an artist?
MB: Honestly, I just want to make more music.
PD: What is the proudest moment in your music career so far?
MB: You know, that’s an interesting question. I think each time I reach a new achievement, I am proud. For example, I was proud when I first heard my EP on Bandcamp, then first airplay, first interview, etc. Likewise, I will be proud of my new EP when it will be released in the summer 2023.
PD: Promoting one’s music is such a challenge these days, especially with so many new artists emerging from bedrooms
in the day of the home studio. How is that going?
MB: The first six months of my EP’s release was a learning curve because this was my first release. I think what made it easier was that I really had no expectations. I just want people to listen to the music. MDPR was a boost to getting the word out, so a shout out to Zach \m/
PD: And how do you book and promote your live shows and tours? Any performances coming up?
MB: There are no planned Mortal Blood shows. I never intended to play live or tour.
PD: What do you think about downloading music online? What about streaming sites like Spotify?
MB: In my life, I listened to music on LP’s, reel-to-reel, 8-track, cassette, digital tape, CD, and the current digital formats (did I miss one?). I like the downloads, mp3s are convenient. I still have vinyl LPs and 45’s but don’t listen to them because it’s easier just to play the mp3s on the laptop.
PD: What song do you wish you’d written and why?
MB: I don’t think about that.
PD: Is there anything you don’t like about the music industry, which you would change if you could?
MB: There are things I dislike about the music industry, and there are things I like. I guess when I figure out where I am in the industry, I’ll have more to say about that.
PD: So, what are you working on at the moment?
MB: Ahh yes! I am excited about the upcoming release of my new EP this summer. It’s heavier and more intense than “Unholy feast.”
PD: Where can we learn more about you and buy your music/merch online?
MB: Checkout my electronic press kit at (mortalbloodofficial.com). You can listen and download on all the major platforms (such as Bandcamp, Spotify, Amazon, Deezer, Youtube, etc etc). I have playlists of similar music on my Spotify and Youtube channels. You can follow me on the socials too! I am on Twitter daily interacting with fans and other bands. All my links are on (mortalbloodofficial.com). Merch will be available to purchase this summer.
Thank you! \m/
Mortal Blood links:
Band/Artist location – Baltimore, Maryland
Website – Facebook – You Tube – Bandcamp –
Twitter – Instagram – Apple – Spotify – Amazon – Deezer – Last Fm
Check our page for Mortal Blood
