American metal project Direct Force have formally stepped into the fast lane with an explosive new single titled Full Throttle, which is due out tomorrow. The track is very true to its title, delivering a relentless, pulse-racing hit of raw energy, alongside some groovy riffage and a frenetic rhythm section, demanding your full attention from the very first chord. I decided to delve a little deeper and discover more about Mark Brown, the one man band behind the music. Whilst we can’t share Full Throttle just yet (it will be included in a very special metal music round-up review shortly), you can find the project’s previous singles (Proportional and Twist the Knife) at the bottom of this interview.
By Jane Howkins
How has your year been so far? Has anything particularly special happened for you as an artist?
This year has been a fun challenge so far as I’ve started releasing my music as Direct Force. I have spent many hours tweaking settings for the music’s mix to find the best sound that goes with my music’s intent.
You have a new single out soon titled Full Throttle. What can you tell us about the song and what can existing fans expect from it?
Full Throttle’s purpose as a song is to blast motivation to the listener, as well as being a satisfying sonic groove.
You also released the tracks Proportional and Twist the Knife earlier this year. Do you have any other singles planned for release soon?
I have several more songs that all together will make up nine songs to finish this first album out, with another right behind it. Each song was made for its own purpose and heavy vibe.
Are there any plans for an EP or a full-length album release in the near future?
Yes, I’m very excited for each song to stack on top of these ones to complete this album. I have them locked and loaded. Each song has its own unique characteristics but its all rooted in my ‘style’.
You’re a one man band. Why did you decide to write music under the title of Direct Force, rather than using your own name?
It’s kind of funny because my name is rather common – Mark Brown. And I wanted the music to stand under its own ‘name’ for itself. Because I’m taking every instrument and the production on myself, I’m doing so with ‘Direct Force’.
You’re from Little Rock in Arkansas, primarily known for producing Evanescence. What is the local scene like now and are there any local acts you can recommend we check out?
Unfortunately, the scene (from my perspective) has dwindled sharply. Several years ago now I played bass in a three piece southern rock band and we played at a lot of venues in and around Little Rock. I see bands looking for musicians all the time, but i notice they don’t typically have a cohesive sound or are not totally serious in the craft, which are things that tend to hold local bands back for years until they finally quit. I’m sure there are a few local bands around here that are on point right now, but unfortunately they start and quit so often I wouldn’t be able to name any that stand out. Even though Arkansas has certainly produced some phenomenal artists in the past.
Who are your main musical influences and what have you been listening to recently?
My musical influences range pretty good, and I’m the type that gets addicted to certain bands and will play a certain song for several weeks in a row before my brain latches on to another. I love Judas Priest, classic Megadeth and Metallica, King Diamond, Pantera, Scorpions, Motorhead, Alestorm, Death, Immortal and even stuff like old George Jones country music. And many more. Recently, I have been hooked on the Scorpions song Blackout (I’ve considered doing a legit released cover in my style).
Do you have anything else exciting coming up this year?
This year is going to be filled with me releasing songs. So I’m very happy to do that as I really want to give back to the metal community with something new, fresh, kickass and heavy.
Do you perform live? Do you plan to tour in the UK anytime soon?
Touring is something that I think about often. As a one man band, there are several ways I could handle hiring musicians for it. If my music and Direct Force gets enough support and time continues, I would absolutely love to tour the UK extensively.
Any last words for the fans?
Crank this stuff up and bang your head! I’m working hard to make the music a kickass enjoyable experience.
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