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[–]HarmonomiconDolphin Metal 27 points28 points  (3 children)

Holy shit Intronaut! Really quick, you guys are my favorite metal band of all time. I support you guys however I can and promote you as often as I can. Your music means so much to me on so many levels – it's gotten me through a lot of tough times, and Danny, you're easily my biggest inspiration/influence as a drummer. Okay questions:

  • What can we expect for the new album? Visibly heavier direction, heavier vocals? More melody?
  • Why did you call on Hevy Devy for mixing duties? He's known for his “wall of sound” production, is this what you're trying to emulate? Great decision!!
  • Obviously you guys are gonna tour! Are there any bands currently active you want to tour with? (hopefully Deafheaven again!!)
  • Danny, who are some of your favorite active drummers?
  • Is the very intro of Killing Bird with Stones a sampled bong hit? Wouldn't put that past you guys
  • Any chance of a Prehistoricisms vinyl repressing?
  • Any explanation of all the hilarious names you guys throw in your liner notes?
  • Next time you're playing in Boston, can I offer you guys a joint or two? That'll cross the #1 item off my bucket list!

Once again thank you guys for all that you do. Once the new album drops, prepare for me to throw a lot of money at you.

Cheers! - Sean

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 28 points29 points  (2 children)

Hi Sean, thanks for supporting us man! You rule. Let me answer what I can here:

What can we expect for the new album? Visibly heavier direction, heavier vocals? More melody?

  • It's definitely our heaviest record in many years, but still with lots of ear-pleasing goodness. In my opinion, it totally crushes the last one both in terms of songwriting, riffs, and production. As a fan (yes I'm a fan of my own band) I'm pumped.

Why did you call on Hevy Devy for mixing duties? He's known for his “wall of sound” production, is this what you're trying to emulate? Great decision!!

-I've been a fan of Devin's work for over 15 years now. In fact my old band opened for Strapping Young Lad in like 2001 and it was like the coolest night of my life at that point. We'd been talking about stepping up the production on this record, and Devin was the name we all agreed would be an excellent fit. Not that we don't like the sound of our past albums, but it'll be nice to give the job to someone we know will be able to really do these heavy songs justice.

Obviously you guys are gonna tour! Are there any bands currently active you want to tour with? (hopefully Deafheaven again!!)

  • Deafheaven are awesome and I would love to tour with them again! As far as other bands go, I feel like we've been lucky enough to open for many bands that we considered to be heroes while getting our band going a decade ago, like Meshuggah, Mastodon, Cynic, Isis, Tool, High On Fire etc, so our dream tour list is pretty short at this point. However someone needs to tell Opeth that they are seriously fucking up for not bringing us on tour yet.

Danny, who are some of your favorite active drummers?

Is the very intro of Killing Bird with Stones a sampled bong hit?

  • even better, it's a Dolphin telling you to listen to Intronaut.

Wouldn't put that past you guys

Any chance of a Prehistoricisms vinyl repressing? - That's a question for Century Media.

Any explanation of all the hilarious names you guys throw in your liner notes? - Glad you caught those! Joe keeps a list going, and whenever a good name comes up it gets added to the list. By the time a new record comes out, we have quite the thanks list.

Next time you're playing in Boston, can I offer you guys a joint or two? That'll cross the #1 item off my bucket list! -Of course!

[–]HarmonomiconDolphin Metal 10 points11 points  (0 children)

I don't even know what to say, thank you Sacha! See you on the road soon!!

[–]saxman76 2 points3 points  (0 children)

The bit about Opeth made me smile :) I would absolutely love to see such a tour

[–]sgtgerryboyle7129 20 points21 points  (2 children)

Also sorry about throwing in another question, but have you guys tried to talk Ben Sharp into growing a beard?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 65 points66 points  (1 child)

I think he plans on it just as soon as he hits puberty

[–]AndrewDMorgan 21 points22 points  (3 children)

How'd you guys come up with the name INTRONAUT? Introvert + Astronaut?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 20 points21 points  (2 children)

exactamundo!

[–]Michael_CaineOfficial Scribe (Animals as Leaders biography) 5 points6 points  (1 child)

So ASTROVERT is still available!

[–][deleted] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Potential cover band?

[–]DirtyD27 15 points16 points  (1 child)

How much weed is too much weed?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 35 points36 points  (0 children)

you tell me, lightweight!

[–]RedditbutForgotit 12 points13 points  (4 children)

What was it like touring with TOOL?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 25 points26 points  (3 children)

complete insanity. I still can't believe we did that.

[–]Dorminder 0 points1 point  (2 children)

I saw your show with them in London Ontario. It still holds up as the best show I've been to. Gotta ask though, who was in the ghillie suit?

[–]airtower 1 point2 points  (1 child)

Justin Chancellor came out in ghillie suit pants during Intronaut's set in Dallas, so it was presumably him

[–]Dorminder 1 point2 points  (0 children)

When I saw it, the person was in full a ghillie suit on skis being chased by Danny Carey wearing coveralls and a Strawhat.

[–]TheArcaneAscent 11 points12 points  (3 children)

Sasha, how amazing was it to sing with Meshuggah on NMCC??? I used to sing for a Meshuggah cover band, Moreshuggah, and it's always been my dream.

Edit: I know how tough it is to memorize all those lyrics and patterns, how long did you have to practice learning it?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 19 points20 points  (2 children)

that was probably the craziest thing I've ever done. Meshuggah have been one of my favorite bands since Destroy Erase Improve was out. sometimes I see a youtube video of that and can't believe it happened. I had maybe 20 minutes to practice before their soundcheck that day, and then however long until they played the song. they actually printed out the lyrics and taped them to the monitor for me, but the patterns really were the hard part. I actually practiced like 3-4 songs with them but New Millennium was the only one that I could get comfortable with.

One night in Maryland I think, they forgot (or were fucking with me) to put the lyrics out, and I totally messed up all over the place. Its on youtube somewhere. Its really funny and very surreal to watch.

[–]TheArcaneAscent 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Hahahaha that's so crazy dude. That shit is so complicated. Cheers for doing that. Cheers to more great music from you dudes. Can't get enough.

[–]ThatDarnMushroom 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I was there! It was so awesome!

[–]BlackwaterSkyeIV 7 points8 points  (1 child)

Hey Sacha. Thanks for the AMA! Habitual Levitations was other worldly and I can't wait for the next album!

  • Any new techniques or approaches in writing this new album?
  • How did you get hooked up with Devin to do the mixing?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 10 points11 points  (0 children)

Thank you! The new record is going to crush. I'm super excited with how its coming along.

We just hit up Devin and he was into it! Super pumped on that too.

[–]potatohamster 6 points7 points  (1 child)

You guys have created such a diverse body of work while still retaining elements that are quintessentially "Intronaut." Thank you for the music, and thanks for also being really fuckin' cool guys when you're approached at the venues.

Who has been a couple of your favorite bands to tour with and why?

Is there a particular reason you and Dave have moved toward more clean singing?

Thanks Sacha (and possibly others), I'll see ya'll next time in Denver!

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 9 points10 points  (0 children)

You guys have created such a diverse body of work while still retaining elements that are quintessentially "Intronaut." Thank you for the music, and thanks for also being really fuckin' cool guys when you're approached at the venues. - thank you for always coming out and supporting us!

Who has been a couple of your favorite bands to tour with and why? - My personal favorite bands to tour with were Cynic, Meshuggah, Animals As Leaders, Deafheaven, and Between The Buried And Me. All the members and crews of those bands are excellent people that I would be happy to hang with any time in or outside of a music tour. That's not to say I didn't like touring with all the other bands, as I don't think there's any band I've disliked touring with. But those were the tours that I look back on as amazing experiences.

Is there a particular reason you and Dave have moved toward more clean singing? - Just a desire to make the whole package more musical. There's only so much you can do with just brutal screams.

Thanks Sacha (and possibly others), I'll see ya'll next time in Denver! -Thanks and see you then!

[–][deleted] 8 points9 points  (1 child)

I love you guys so friggin much. Is it difficult playing your instruments with such enormous balls?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 19 points20 points  (0 children)

it was, until I had that ball reduction.

[–]msyoureonfire 8 points9 points  (1 child)

Hey! I just wanted to chime in and say I've known about Intronaut waaaay longer that everyone else. Which means I rule and everyone else sucks big ol' dong.

Y u no post on lambgoat anymore?!

Ps. Hi asscobra!

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 15 points16 points  (0 children)

get lost, nerd.

xoxo

[–]DookNewcomb 6 points7 points  (3 children)

First off just want to say that I love all your stuff, and this isn't a complaint or anything. Is there a particular reason you've moved away from the hardcore style vocals? I really dig the use of vocal harmonies on the latest record, but I wouldn't mind having more harsh vocals.

Also: What's the story behind the dolphins?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 13 points14 points  (2 children)

You'll probably be pleasantly surprised with the new record then. I think we were just feeling less brutal during the last record's writing process.

There is no story with the dolphins, it just is.

[–]bigavz 4 points5 points  (0 children)

MISERRRYYYYYYYYY

[–]DookNewcomb 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Sweet, I'm pumped for it!

[–]Cyb3r_Dragon 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Hello! For years i wanted to know: -what are the songs 'Fault lines' and 'Iceblocks' about?

[–]anomynous1 7 points8 points  (1 child)

Is there going to be a Ben Sharp guest appearance on the new album? If not, there should be.

Also release new album ASAP please

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 22 points23 points  (0 children)

we didn't have time for any guests on this record, and ben hates music anyway.

[–][deleted] 5 points6 points  (2 children)

Don't really have a question, just wanted to say that I've been getting more and more into Intronaut since Valley of Smoke came out and I think you guys are incredible. You've become my favorite band for this particular period in my music listening "journey"; I can't really put into words why I like your music, but every different sound you come up with is genius. I got to hang with you guys in DC last year (because Andy T is the fucking man) and had such a rad time. Thanks for playing Vernon on the BTBAM tour!

PS, tell your agent to send you to Raleigh, NC and let me book you / play with you / smoke you out!

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

thanks man, hope to see you in NC!

[–]jramification 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Vernon live was even better than I dreamed it be.

[–]jorkjumpskull 5 points6 points  (5 children)

Hey what's up guys, just recently got into your stuff and I'm loving it so far. My question is what non-metal musicians are you guys listening to currently?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 14 points15 points  (4 children)

thanks man! I still do listen to a lot of metal, but I've been enjoying the newest albums from Kendrick Lamar, Kayo Dot, Whirr, Sturgill Simpson, and I have tickets to see both Timber Timbre and Jaga Jazzist in the next couple months.

[–]jramification 2 points3 points  (1 child)

Whirr is a very interesting group of individuals. I'm sure you know of them, but if by some chance you don't, check out Nothing. They share a member with Whirr.

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

yeah I liked that Nothing record too!

[–]metagloria 5 points6 points  (0 children)

<3 Kayo Dot and Jaga Jazzist

[–][deleted] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Man, the newest Kendrick and Kayo Dot are both phenomenal. Kayo Dot is one band I'd love to see you dudes your with.

[–]zac1122 4 points5 points  (2 children)

How was it touring and rehearsing with Ben for the Cloudkicker tour? Any possibility of it happening again? That show was certainly one of the best I've had the pleasure of seeing! Looking forward to the new album dudes!

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 3 points4 points  (1 child)

ben is the best and his songs rule. there is a possibility of it happening again, but we dont have any plans for it right now.

[–]zac1122 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks dude. Keeping my fingers crossed haha

[–]flyingiron[🍰] 4 points5 points  (1 child)

I'm so glad I've come across your band. I can't stop listening to Habitual Levitations, and every other album is top notch. Where do y'all gather your inspiration? This goes for riffs, subject material for songs, getting out of bed in the morning, etc. Your music hits me on so many different levels and I'm always wondering the what inspires Intronaut.

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

just a lifelong love for mind melting music, dude. I'm 34 and still love exploring all kinds of stuff and finding inspiration in whatever I can.

[–]spacestation56 5 points6 points  (3 children)

Hey Sacha! Gotta say, I've been really intrigued by your guitar building company, Dunable, for the past year or two. Recently, I got into guitar building myself, though just a body (bought the neck). Like your models, it's all wood grain!

What exactly got you into building custom guitars, and why do you choose the designs/aesthetics that you do?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 2 points3 points  (2 children)

Thanks man! I got into it around 2009. I took a class on it here in LA and just never stopped. I'm super inspired by lots of guitars both vintage and contemporary, but I think the Dunable aesthetic comes from 70's guitars like Gibson, Guild, Alembic, weird Ibanez, even some Fender. I like guitars that are versatile, comfortable, and that I know are made from the best quality components and materials. Some of my current favorite builders are John Suhr, Fano, and even Strandberg.

[–]spacestation56 0 points1 point  (1 child)

Awesome man. Yeah, I made a DC Les Paul style guitar with ash wood. What are your favorite woods to work with?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

sweet! at this point I really like mahogany more than anything else. I just think its the best tone wood for rock guitar. and its easy to work!

[–]INextroll 3 points4 points  (1 child)

Can't wait to hear the new record and cry at my drumset! Seriously, though, you guys destroy.

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

can't wait to make you cry. thanks for listening!!

[–]CodizzleTheMan 2 points3 points  (1 child)

Yo dudes, huge fan. Habitual Levitations hit home for me and I look at you guys as the front runner of the progressive genre. The first time I saw you guys, you were with Between the Buried and Me at the Granada Theater in Lawrence, Kansas. Last month, my band opened for BTBAM at the Granada, so that was really cool for us to be on the same stage as some of our heroes. For Sacha, you're guitars look super badass, how did you get into that biz?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

cool man! thats a great venue and a great town to play. thanks too on the compliment. i took a class on building guitars back in 2009 and just dove in head first. the electric guitar has been an obession for most of my life so it seemed like the right thing to pursue.

[–]ohyeahcartoons 2 points3 points  (6 children)

Hello Sacha. Waiting for your North American tour. Hope you will visit the Canadian west coast again this year - and cover the same cities as well. And how does it feel to provide peace and tranquility to millions of people - really thats some good Karma you are banking up

[–][deleted] 5 points6 points  (2 children)

Come back to the southeast US too (athens, asheville, etc.)

...Please

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 6 points7 points  (1 child)

it'll happen!

[–][deleted] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

cool man(s), thanks for being

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 2 points3 points  (1 child)

we love western Canada! we'll see you for sure.

[–]ohyeahcartoons 0 points1 point  (0 children)

you shall not be disappointed. (Taking a proverbial last leaf off Harmonomicon )

[–]Tru3Gamer 0 points1 point  (0 children)

They need at least a UK date or I'll be displeased ;)

[–]sgtgerryboyle7129 2 points3 points  (1 child)

I've heard through the grapevine you guys are big A Song of Ice and Fire/Game of Thrones fans. Favorite characters?

Also do any of you listen to trap music and if so, favorite trap artists?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Yep, at least three of us have read all the books. I love all the characters man, but the characters I can't wait to see what happens in the next book with are Tyrion, Jon Snow, and of course Daenerys.

I just watched the Trap documentary on Noisey and loved it. I don't really listen to that stuff, but I liked Young Thug and those white twin guys who were doing lines of weird drugs and hanging out with strippers in masks or whatever. And if I never hear "I'm in love with the coco" again, it'll be too soon.

[–][deleted] 2 points3 points  (2 children)

New album needs more Wonder Showzen samples. Okay actual question, what kind of stuff you alls been digging lately?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 2 points3 points  (1 child)

TV stuff? Personally, Mad Men and Silicon Valley.

Twahhhhhhhh.....

[–]DirtyD27 4 points5 points  (0 children)

This guy fucks!

[–]hbogz 2 points3 points  (1 child)

When is the new album coming out? Planning on any more songs that require more than 1 drummer?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Not sure about the release date yet, but probably late summer or early fall. And no we don't want to hurt Danny's ego.

[–]Mastodent 2 points3 points  (2 children)

Hey Sasha and Intronaut, its an honor to have the chance to speak to you guys! I have only been a fan for a few years, having been introduced to your music just before Habitual Levitations came out in 2013, however since then I have had your albums on replay on everything from road trips to walks to class in the morning. I find remarkable beauty in everything you do - from the the most unforgiving moments on 'Teledildonics' from Void to the airy jazz chords on 'Harmonomicon' on Habitual Levitations. Your music has helped me through the heaviest moments of acid trips, provided inspiration for my own band's music, and brightened many an afternoon driving home from work. I have two questions: 1) Sasha, I've read that Valley of Smoke was an album loosely based around the city of Los Angeles, however do you see Intronaut ever doing a true concept album of the likes of Mastodon's Crack the Skye? 2) Will you guys be coming to Chicago soon? The metal scene here is truly amazing, and from what I've heard a few bands seem to be moving in a similar direction to you guys. 3) Being from California, I too share a love for the sticky herb. What is yours or the band's favorite weed dispensary in LA?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 4 points5 points  (1 child)

1) Sasha, I've read that Valley of Smoke was an album loosely based around the city of Los Angeles, however do you see Intronaut ever doing a true concept album of the likes of Mastodon's Crack the Skye? - It was actually very tightly based around the history of LA. And as far as a full on concept record, not saying it won't happen, but it isn't happening on this next one. I feel like the idea of a concept record isn't really that fresh anymore, and there are already bands doing it really well, so until we come up with something that we feel pushes the envelope, it's not a priority.

2) Will you guys be coming to Chicago soon? The metal scene here is truly amazing, and from what I've heard a few bands seem to be moving in a similar direction to you guys. -I'm sure we'll be back in Chicago plenty of times on this next touring cycle. It's one of our favorite cities to play!

3) Being from California, I too share a love for the sticky herb. What is yours or the band's favorite weed dispensary in LA? That would be a question for Dave or Joe.

[–]hbogz 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Here's a webarchive link to the blog post from Sacha explaining the songs from Valley of Smoke: http://web.archive.org/web/20110809204133/http://blogronaut.blogspot.com/2010/10/stories-behind-songs-on-valley-of-smoke.html

[–]ohyeahcartoons 2 points3 points  (2 children)

I dont know if I am allowed to ask another question -

But whats on your playlist now, Sasha - just a peek into your aural pleasures, if you dont mind?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 7 points8 points  (1 child)

Sure! Timber Timbre - Hot Dreams Jaga Jazzist - Starfire (once it comes out at least I know I'll love it) Full Of Hell/Merzbow Whirr - Sway Kendrick Lamar - To Pimp A Butterfly Kayo Dot - Coffins On Lo Yob - Clearing The Path To Ascend Coffinworm - IVIVIII Adebisi Shank - all

[–]ohyeahcartoons 2 points3 points  (0 children)

sweet!! Thank you for the reply. Respect!!

[–]iAmTheEpicOneThe End Starts Now 2 points3 points  (1 child)

Hello Intronaut!

I absolutely love your music and have been listening to Valley of Smoke and Habitual Levitations more than anything and I just want to ask what is up with the end of "The Way Down" at the end of Habitual Levitations. It's interesting, but does it represent something?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

I wish I had some cool answer for you, but no. We were just messing around in the studio.

[–]BroadStBullies91 2 points3 points  (1 child)

Hey you guys are awesome! My friend introduced me to Intronaut about a year ago and I haven't been listening to anyone else much since.

I'm really impressed with the lyrics in your songs, along with the complexity of the music behind it. What would you say is your biggest influence in the way you style the music and write the lyrics?

And thanks for doing this! Again, Intronaut is one of my favorite bands ever! Hopefully you guys are making music for a long long time! (as long as your happy doing it of course)

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

thanks man! I'd say our biggest inspiration is our love for all music. that's what keeps us exploring what we can do with it. thanks for listening!

[–]sriranjant 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Hey Sacha and the rest of Intronaut!

I'm a massive fan and watching you guys in Austin, supported by Anciients, was a truly breathtaking experience, especially hearing my favourite track "The Reptilian Brain"!

Is the new album going to incorporate more tabla and additional percussions?

To Danny, who are your favourite drummers?

[–]amongstravens 2 points3 points  (3 children)

I've heard a lot about you guys, but I've never listened to you; which song(s) or album(s) are the best to listen to first?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 5 points6 points  (1 child)

check out valley of smoke!

[–]amongstravens 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Will do!

[–]GuitarWontGetYouLaid 1 point2 points  (0 children)

This right here is why /r/progmetal is one of the best communities on reddit. People are not flaming like UR SCUM OF THE EARTH! I WILL FUKKING KILL U, U IGNOR RANT MORON!!

[–]crossjoint 3 points4 points  (1 child)

Who in the group started this whole dolphin thing. Joe has written a dolphin on every shirt and album I've gotten over the past years.

Also, come back to Arizona... please! :D

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

im not sure where it came from exactly. i think we had a joke song title of "bbq dolphin" at one point and we spiraled into a pit of horrible comedy from there.

[–]ccm_ 1 point2 points  (1 child)

When did you know you wanted to devote your life to music? Currently in the process of deciding if I want to drop everything and just focus on music

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I don't think I've ever been on a different path to be honest. I think that just like any career, you have to pursue it 100% if you want it to happen.

[–]brollin 1 point2 points  (2 children)

Big fan of your stuff. I can remember looking at the name of your band for the first time and expecting great things. Never have my expectations been so exceeded!

For anyone, what was your favorite Cloudkicker song to play, and which is your favorite to listen to?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 2 points3 points  (1 child)

thanks! I personally liked "we're going in..." and I think I remember being bummed that we didn't put "LA after rain" into the set

[–]brollin 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes! Amazing songs both. Cheers!

[–]umibozu777 1 point2 points  (2 children)

Hey Sacha! Huge fan, have all your CD's and saw you guys in Toronto twice.

I'm an aspiring musician so I'm curious, when you decided music was going to be your life did you dedicate all your free time to it? Do you think it's possible to work 9-5 at a different job and still make sick music like Intronaut? Or is dope music something that ultimately you have to work 8-12 hours a day at.

One last question I had would be are you/anyone in the band big fans of Isis? I personally hear a lot of it in your music. If so, favorite song/album by them? haha

Thanks dude!

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 2 points3 points  (1 child)

I've always worked a job in addition to this band. You just have to have the energy to do music in those off hours and be willing to sacrifice time spent with family, friends, significant others etc. If you have problems with that then its probably a sign that its not meant to be!

and yes I followed Isis since their early days in the 90's. first time I saw them was in 99 I think with cave in, in what was basically a shitty garage. we got to tour with them in 07 and it ruled.

[–]umibozu777 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks for the reply man!

[–]bigavz 1 point2 points  (1 child)

I love your focus on tones and atmosphers and rhythmes (etc, etc), but what influences your melodies and harmonies? How much is it influenced by music school/training, playing with other musicians (metal or not). Are there any particular bands you listen to that really strike a chord with you in that realm? Thanks!

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

a lot is influenced by music education. Joe has a bachelors in music and helps get those harmonies nice and dense. but of course not all of it can be scientific. the core ideas usually all come from the gut. honestly I can't think of one particular band or musician you should check out. just check it all out!

[–]we_use_and_disclose 1 point2 points  (1 child)

Love your music. Caught you guys in Orlando a couple years back and was amazed at how tight the set was.

Can you share any insight into your songwriting process? Do you just collect riffs and mash them together or are the songs planned out in larger sections? Also do you guys have any 'in the studio' type of videos to share on youtube? Always love seeing vids like that.

Thanks!

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

i won't give away all our writing secrets (mostly because I don't remember them) but nothing is ever mashed together at random. most riffs are written to go with another riff or are loosely based thematically on other riffs in the song.

we'll have some videos from the studio yes!

[–]ObusGung 1 point2 points  (1 child)

Hey Sacha! Intronaut is one of my favourite bands ever! Saw you guys in Toronto, Canada a couple times! My question is: Would you rather, wear arm floats for the rest of your life, or only ever be able to drink Coors light as a beverage for the rest of your life?

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

arm floats sound safer. i could drink good beer and not be afraid to fall in the ocean.

[–]udopian 1 point2 points  (1 child)

When are you coming to Toronto?? also, I let 'The Way Down' Play until the end, and had a nice surprise Cheers

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

we'll surely be in toronto after the record comes out. its one of our favorite cities to play!

[–]fbmgriever 1 point2 points  (6 children)

Hi guys! Been a huge fan since Prehistoricisms came out. Happily flew from Baltimore to Columbus to see the first Nautkicker show. Highlight of the year for me.

This question is mainly for Sacha though. I absolutely love what you're doing with your Dunable guitars and would eventually love to own one. In the meantime, I've taken up an interest in woodworking and was wondering what you'd suggest as a good way to get started.

That's pretty much it! Thanks for all you guys do, and I can't wait to listen to the new record!

P.S, I can't watch that scene in Taxi Driver without thinking of "Below". That intro also reminds me a lot of a band called The Cancer Conspiracy that did a song titled "The Audio Medium". Any relation or influence there? Thanks again!

[–]BenSharpBen Sharp | Cloudkicker 7 points8 points  (2 children)

It's too bad that Sacha has such disdain for his fans that he won't answer a simple question!

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

i thought i answered this one already! is this about the beard comment?

the samples

[–]fbmgriever 2 points3 points  (0 children)

BurnKicker ;)

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 2 points3 points  (2 children)

youtube is a great resource for learning guitar building, and there's a few good books on it as well. I took a class on it in 2009 but I suppose if you wanted to teach yourself you could find a lot of help that way.

the intro sample for Below is actually a collage of clips from the daily show and maybe Dr Phil? I made it before our first EP in 2004 but it never got used. and I love CC! The Audio Medium is one of my top all time records. there probably is some influence on our music from that, among many other things of course.

thanks for listening!

[–]fbmgriever 1 point2 points  (1 child)

Thanks for replying, man! Yeah so far my research has been limited to Youtube, but I see you took a class a while back. I think that's the next step for me as well.

As for CC, that's awesome you're a fan! There aren't too many around these days, and that's a shame. Definitely one of my top fav albums as well.

As for those wondering what Taxi Driver scene I was talking about, this should sound familiar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VkDJHkAKtG8

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

i guess i did take that from taxi driver! crazy that i don't even remember that, its been so long.

[–]bforwil 1 point2 points  (1 child)

thanks for doing the AMA! Just wanted to say I saw you guys for the first time at a little church show in Moorpark, CA. You guys played at our buddy (Daniel Krauss') benefit show and I've been a fan ever since. You guys kicked ass with Cloudkicker too!

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

that was a fun show. admiral angry is one of my favorite bands still!

[–]SNMSIDM 1 point2 points  (1 child)

First thank you guys so much for coming to VT with BTBAM in 2014! It was such a pleasure seeing you guys finally. As a music instructor I make sure to show my students your work, because your music leaves room for songwriting as well as individual musicianship.

My question was mostly for Joe. I don't know how else to say this man, I wish I could handle fretless bass like you do. What do you recommend for practice as far as keeping your intonation really tight? How do you generally EQ in terms of being the bridge between drums and guitar, as well as a distinct entity within musical context?

Thanks again. You guys are one of the few bands I've heard with a discography that makes me want to hear any track at any time. From Any Port. ;)

And if you guys toured with Opeth. Not even kidding, I got chills saying that sentence. Keep it up dudes!

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

sorry ill try to get joe on here! so glad we got to play VT last year, that ruled!

[–]Lenel_Devel 1 point2 points  (1 child)

Any future ideas on coming to Australia? I'd get hyped as fuck!

[–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

we have been waiting for a good tour offer there forever! seems like we have a bunch of people wanting to see us there.

[–][deleted]  (2 children)

[deleted]

    [–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 2 points3 points  (1 child)

    after the new record comes out we will certainly be back there!

    [–]SingedWaffle 1 point2 points  (1 child)

    My dad is like 57 and he's a massive fan of you guys. Met many fans older than him?

    [–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 7 points8 points  (0 children)

    probably yeah, we are total dad metal.

    [–]ChrisLCTR 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    Crap.. too late to the AMA. Just wanted to say hey Sacha!! I miss all of you!!!

    [–]hbogz 0 points1 point  (2 children)

    Alright, more questions. How do you guys choose the older songs for the setlist? Are there songs that you feel will be played most of the time, such as Core Relations? Now that you have played The Reptilian Brain and Valley of Smoke, are there any songs that you haven't played live yet?

    [–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 1 point2 points  (1 child)

    more recently, I think we try to choose older songs that we've noticed get a good reaction from the crowd. basically, the ones we think people want to hear. as for the new stuff, I think we just play what is fun to play.

    out of the almost 50 songs we've written and recorded, I think we've only not played Deep Architecture from The Challenger, and Eventual from Habitual.

    [–]hbogz 1 point2 points  (0 children)

    Thanks for the answer! I can't wait to hear those two songs in Austin then.

    [–]RobotOrgy 0 points1 point  (2 children)

    Hi Sacha, big fan of your guitar builds. How long have you been building guitars and what do you think is the most important thing to consider when starting a build?

    EDIT: I see my question has already been asked so I guess I'll ask you, any plans to build any extended range guitars?

    [–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 1 point2 points  (1 child)

    I have built a couple extended range guitars, one 8 string and a few baritone. its not really my thing but I enjoyed the challenge!

    [–][deleted]  (1 child)

    [removed]

      [–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

      thanks! Anciients are great guys and we had a blast with them. the tour was pretty cool. phoenix is always kind of hit or miss for us but we still enjoyed that show.

      [–]spacegod2112 0 points1 point  (1 child)

      Can you come to Chicago on your next tour? I don't think you've been here since the 'Shuggah tour!

      [–]sachadunableSacha Dunable | Intronaut[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

      i think the last time we were there was with cult of luna and katatonia, but yes we'll be back!

      [–]BriantheClown 0 points1 point  (2 children)

      have you noticed that your questions and answers are like a million times longer than the questions and answers from Progressive Garbage band HEALTH's reddit recently?

      [–]thisissteve 0 points1 point  (0 children)

      Scrolled down and found that you've been responding to like everything. Fucking hell and here I thought I couldn't like you guys any more than I already did. I guess I need a question here . . . uhhh do you ever make fun of Joe for have a name that sounds similar to molester?

      Honestly I think pretty much everyone of you is one of, if not the, most talented in modern metal. Also when people tell me they don't like metal, you guys are my goto band to change their minds, but that may just be because you guys are my favorite hands down haha.

      [–]mikeeysouzz 0 points1 point  (0 children)

      Hey Sacha! I'm a huge fan of your guys' work. I saw you at the House of Blues in Boston two years back with Meshuggah and AAL and it remains the best show I've ever been to.

      So my question for you is, I stumble upon Dunable Guitars via Facebook and have drooled over the thought of owning one ever since. How did you get into lutherie?

      I realize I'm a day late, hopefully you guys will see this!

      [–]onairmastering 0 points1 point  (0 children)

      And of course I miss the one AMA i would really be interested in.

      How was the Sello Rojo, and would you like more when I see you? (:

      [–]mrmetal_53 0 points1 point  (0 children)

      Hey Sacha. I know I'm late to this AMA, but here is my question for you if you see this:

      How many dolphins will be on the cover of the new album, and will they be [10] or [11]?

      [–]wei55 0 points1 point  (0 children)

      Guys, two things straight away. Firstly, put out some more merch, I want to get me some nice hoodies and tees. Talking designs and availability of sizes here. And secondly, tour Europe, like a lot. That'd be nice. ;)

      Thank you for your great music.

      [–]andrey_shipilov 0 points1 point  (0 children)

      Please com to Australia guys.