About this interview
In a 2010 interview with Ryan Minic of Ryan’s Rock Show, Through the Eyes of the Dead reflected on their early struggles in the metal scene, the chaotic nature of DIY touring, and the challenges of keeping a band together over the years.
They recalled their first-ever tour in 2004, describing it as a brutal learning experience. Without much touring knowledge, they had to scrape together money for food and gas, often using personal savings just to keep the band afloat. They booked many of their own shows, often working with small-time DIY promoters, which led to cancellations and last-minute venue changes. There were nights when they’d drive eight hours to a venue, only to find out there was no show, forcing them to sleep in the van with no money and barely enough food.
Van problems were a constant issue, as they were always driving unreliable vehicles that they could barely afford. They recalled being stranded on the side of the road, piecing together money from guarantees just to get back on the road. Things became a little easier after signing to Prosthetic Records, as the label helped boost their presence in the metal scene, making touring more stable.
One of their craziest experiences was a near-death incident early in their career. On just the fourth day of a tour, their van caught fire while driving through the desert. At first, they thought it was just a mechanical issue, but after seeing smoke pouring through the vents, they realized the van was engulfed in flames. Everyone jumped out just in time, grabbing only the cash box and a few personal items before the entire front end of the van was destroyed. They were stranded in the middle of nowhere, and Prosthetic Records had to help them get a new van so they could continue touring. Despite the chaos, they didn’t cancel a single show, showing up to the next gig covered in ash, borrowing hoodies, and playing as if nothing had happened.
The conversation shifted to how much the music industry had changed, particularly with Myspace and social media. They recalled how before Myspace, bands had to grind hard to gain exposure, but once social media blew up, it became more about numbers and image rather than live performance. They criticized how record labels started signing bands based on Myspace plays, rather than actual talent or work ethic, which led to an influx of bands that didn’t tour or put in the same level of effort. They acknowledged that social media helped bands get discovered, but it also led to a decline in the underground scene’s authenticity.
Another big topic was the state of metal and hardcore at the time. They felt that many modern bands focused too much on “being heavy” rather than writing good songs, which led to a lack of originality in the genre. They missed the days when bands stood out because of creativity rather than just breakdowns and polished production. However, they believed that the bands who truly had something unique to offer would survive in the long run, even as the industry evolved.
As the interview wrapped up, they talked about what kept them going through all the struggles. They weren’t in it for money or fame—they just wanted to tour, play good shows, and create music that they could be proud of years later. Their goal wasn’t to become the biggest band, but rather to write music that had lasting impact, something they could listen to a decade later and still be proud of.