TROUBLE’s Kyle Thomas Unleashes Vocal Assault for Upcoming Album
In a raw and revealing interview with Scott Davidson on Chicago's Rebel Radio, Kyle Thomas, the powerhouse vocalist of the storied doom metal band TROUBLE, has peeled back the curtain on the much-anticipated follow-up to their 2013 opus, "The Distortion Field." The 56-year-old New Orleans native, who also leads the thrash juggernaut EXHORDER, took to his home studio for an intimate recording experience, ensuring every note resonates with the band’s rich legacy. "I'm in the process of recording vocals for the new TROUBLE LP," Thomas shared, detailing his meticulous approach to crafting each track.
As the creative engine revs up, Thomas explained his workflow: he receives song mixes, layers his vocals, and collaborates closely with guitarists Rick Wartell and Bruce Franklin until they’re satisfied. "I think there’s 10, 11 songs on this album, and I’ve finished about half of them," he stated, exuding confidence in his ability to deliver something worthy of the TROUBLE name. With the last five songs slated to come together before Thanksgiving, it’s clear that the band is racing toward the finish line, with just the final guitar overdubs and solos left to polish.
However, amidst the excitement, a cloud of uncertainty looms as Thomas addressed rumors surrounding the new album potentially being TROUBLE's swan song. "That question is a tough one because I just don’t know," he confessed. "Ultimately, whether or not it’s the swan song, the answer lies within Rick and Bruce." This reflection reveals more than just the pressures of legacy; it’s the weight of history that hangs in the air every time the band steps into the studio.
In a world where metal fans have been teased for over a decade with whispers of new music, Kyle emphasized the urgency and importance of this release. "I know for a decade or more there’s been talks of, 'The album’s coming out next year.' I still don’t even want to say that, but the music is almost finished being recorded right now." With the mixing phase already in motion under the skilled hands of Bill Metoyer, the anticipation for this record could not be more palpable.
In a previous conversation, Thomas elaborated on his lyrical inspiration, stating, "Most of what I write comes off my sleeve." His approach blends personal experiences with broader themes, ensuring that every word carries weight and relevance. As he chases the elusive goal of perfecting his craft, he makes it clear that the essence of TROUBLE lies not just in the notes but in the soul of the songwriting. "For me, my passion is a lot more aligned with songwriting and production," he asserted, a testament to his commitment to quality over virtuosity.
With the impending release looming on the horizon, fans can only hope that the new TROUBLE album will honor the band’s storied legacy while also carving out its own identity in the annals of heavy metal history. As Kyle Thomas continues to pour his heart and soul into this project, the stakes have never been higher, and the metal community eagerly awaits what could be the final chapter of a legendary saga.