Interview by Rachel Jablonski
What do you get when you mix an interview, a drum kit, and a history teacher by trade? Save that thought. Now find out for sure from the thoughtful Mike Jeffers, drummer of the powerful band Herod.
Rachel: When writing the review of For Whom the Gods Would Destroy I chose an angle that really jumped out and intrigued me. Religious subtleties are abundant in the album creating curiosity as to the album’s intent. What were the main concepts and what was the main intent in creating the album?
Mike: When we sat down to write the record we wanted to create a metal record that was a bit more positive and uplifting for the listener. The band has been through hell the past 4 years and that is why the title is as such. We always felt like people were trying to hold us down. With that being said, I think the record conveys a message of hope for those who often feel like they are being held down by others.
Rachel: The band name, Herod, combined with an album title using the word “Gods,” implying more than one opposing Christian and other monotheistic religions, and religious references in song titles and lyrics make for interesting combinations.
Mike: To be honest, Herod is not a Christian band. Some people in the band may follow a particular belief structure, but the rational behind the bands’ name as well as our record titles is strictly from an historical viewpoint. Herod is a biblical figure we find interesting because he was viewed as a tyrant. On the other hand, if one were to look up Herod in a history books, quite a different picture of the man would be painted. The members of Herod are often viewed in two different lights by those we come in contact wth. Which view is correct? The record does make several references to “God”. But, whose “God” are we speaking of? It doesn’t matter because no religion has gotten it right yet.
Rachel: I don’t want to force you into an in depth conversation regarding religion and I don’t mean to back you into any corner, but would you please expand upon the religious blatancies and undertones that are consistent throughout the album?
Mike: All of the members of the band come from different religious backgrounds. None of us see eye to eye on what the meaning of “faith” and "God” is. But we all try and do what is right and we all believe in some sort of higher power. But Judah’s lyrics reflect his own personal thoughts and opinions. The band is not pushing an agenda because none of us see eye to eye, but we all stand behind what Judah is singing about.
Rachel: The album is amazing and it is in my top albums of 2004. I know you have been getting great reviews elsewhere also. How does this feedback affect you as a band? What do you do with constructive criticism?
Mike: The positive reception the album has had is unbelievable. I cannot comprehend that this record would be so well received. After previous records falling by the way side, it’s been nice to see that this record has struck a nerve with so many. We do also get our fair share of bad reviews and we do listen to criticism, but Herod always tries to please ourselves first and others second. We (the band) have to be happy with what we are doing before everybody else.
Rachel: You just got off a tour in Europe with label mates Fear my Thoughts. How was the tour? When will you be touring the US?
Mike: The tour was amazing. We were in 10 different countries and we played some amazing shows. The people we met were incredible and the cities we traveled to were some of the most beautiful places imaginable. Since I am a history teacher by trade, I was so excited to play and travel in Europe based on historical value. Fear My Thoughts was such a great bunch of guys and an amazing band. They made the trip worthwhile for us. We are planning to tour throughout the US by the fall.
Rachel: I cannot wait to see your band live at some point. What can people expect at a Herod show?
Mike: Pure heart. We give it all we have. Sick of seeing bands with no chops? Well, we were so we have really brought our live show to the next level. It’s not about kicking ass all the time. Sometimes you need to hang back and feel the rock!
Rachel: I read on your website that a video for “We are those People” is either in the works or soon to be released. When should this be out? Where can people see it? What does the video consist of?
Mike: The video is currently up for viewing on our website www.herod.cc and at the Lifeforce records site at www.lifeforcerecords.com The video should be airing on TV any day now, so keep your eyes peeled.
Rachel: “Into the Sky” is one of my favorite tracks on the album. Great guitar, great tempo, great vocals. I can just melt into that one. What would you say is the strongest track on the album is and why?
Mike: I like "Revelations." The chorus gives me the willies. Since the day Judah first sang it at practice I have loved it more than any other song.
Rachel: That’s about all I have right now. Anything else you would like people to know about the band and your music?
Mike: Well, I would say that everyone who is a fan of melodic metal circa the 80’s should check us out. I would say we put our own unique spin on a dying time’s music. Also feel free to get a hold of us through our websites. Take a chance and listen to Herod, I think you will enjoy it.
Rachel: Thanks much for taking the time to answer my questions. I really enjoy the album and look forward to seeing you on tour!
Mike: Thank you so much for the interview and he support. We all appreciate it.