Q & A with Don Slater and Mike Kreger of Battlecross
by Ian Pfister
I recently had the pleasure to sit down and chat with Don Slater and Mike Kreger, a couple of regular looking dudes who happen to be the monster rhythm section from the Detroit based metal band Battlecross. I shared a beer with the guys as we joked & talked about the local scene, dealing with major labels, the work you gotta put in, the hours of sacrifice and the satisfaction you feel when it all comes together. This is just days before setting off on a Fall/Winter Tour supporting metalcore vets Full Blown Chaos with help from a revitalized Rose Funeral and fellow thrashers Diamond Plate. Here's what they had to say...
Hi guys, how goes it? First off, let me say congrats on your deal with Metal Blade earlier this year. I know all of you must've worked your asses off to earn your spot on such a prestigious roster along side some of the greatest bands in metal. What would you say is the most important aspect for a band trying to get recognized by a major label?
Mike Kreger: It goes good here! Thanks for the props on the MB signing, it feels surreal. My advice would be: play shows and go to shows to help get your name out there & build fans. Book small tours, buy an advertisement in a well known magazine or website. The more your name is recognized and seen the better chances you have at "creating a buzz". Also, biggest point..... Work your ass off and have EVERYTHING ready for the label. The less work they have to do the better the chances of them having interest. Get merch & a bad ass recorded CD, use Facebook, My Space, Twitter, You Tube and make your own domain page. These are a must!!!! YOU have to spend money, to make money.
Don Slater: Thanks Ian! It's honestly like any other job interview; your previous work history, eagerness for the jobs to come and overall ability comes into play. Show them you mean business and you've already got a heads up on the competition.
Who would you say are the musicians that had the biggest influence on your own playing style?
Don Slater: When I started off, I wanted to be the next Matt Freeman from Rancid (except with my fingers), and then Les Claypool was introduced to me and I wanted to mimic his style to a tee. I could name drop a list of inspirations, but to be honest, I'm not limited to bassists anymore. Someone whistling the right notes in
