LEFT TO DIE: Rick Rozz Reflects on Death Metal’s Roots and New Beginnings
In a gripping conversation with Łukasz Dunaj of Poland's Noise Magazine, Frederick 'Rick Rozz' DeLillo, the legendary former guitarist of DEATH and MASSACRE, delves into the brutal resurgence of his new band LEFT TO DIE. Alongside fellow DEATH alumni Terry Butler, and GRUESOME founders Matt Harvey and Gus Rios, Rozz is resurrecting the spirit of death metal with their debut album, 'Initium Mortis', unleashed on July 17 via Relapse Records. This album is not just a collection of tracks; it’s a visceral homage to DEATH’s origins, featuring reimagined songs that hark back to the days of Chuck Schuldiner's pre-DEATH outfit, MANTAS.
When questioned about the perception of LEFT TO DIE as a 'gateway' into the seminal death metal scene, Rozz offered a humble perspective. 'That’s really flattering,' he reflected, acknowledging that while he appreciates the sentiment, he never envisioned the band as a bridge to the past. 'It was all a test. We didn't know how people would react,' he confessed. Yet, the nostalgia is palpable, and he’s embracing the resurgence of interest in the genre he helped pioneer.
Rozz went on to discuss the evolution of DEATH, emphasizing that the band's glory days were not confined to a specific timeline. 'I was there in 1983, 1984, but it’s a different ballgame now,' he stated, with a sense of respect for the journey that brought him here. The passage of time has only deepened his appreciation for the experiences shared with his bandmates, and he holds no regrets about his past, viewing it all as a crucial part of his identity within the metal community.
Reflecting on his days with Chuck Schuldiner, Rozz reminisced about their youthful energy during the 'Scream Bloody Gore' tour and the recording of 'Leprosy'. 'We were still kids,' he admitted, but the collaborative spirit was undeniable. He noted, 'Chuck was a cool guy,' highlighting the camaraderie that forged the early DEATH sound, emphasizing that writing was a team effort rather than the vision of a single person.
Addressing past tensions, Rozz clarified that while there were minor disagreements, they were far from harsh. 'It was child's play,' he remarked, downplaying any notion of animosity. His willingness to reconnect with Chuck for the 'Scream Bloody Gore' tour speaks volumes about his dedication to the band’s legacy. 'No regrets,' he concluded, firmly stating that his journey has been a fulfilling one. With LEFT TO DIE, Rozz is not just revisiting the past; he’s redefining it for a new generation of metalheads.