TROUBLE’s Kyle Thomas Opens Up About New Album Progress and Creative Process
In a recent interview with Scott Davidson of Chicago’s Rebel Radio 92.5 FM, TROUBLE frontman Kyle Thomas shared exciting updates about the band’s long-awaited follow-up too thier 2013 album, “The Distortion Field”. The conversation, transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET,offered fans a glimpse into the band’s creative journey and the challenges of crafting a new record after more then a decade.
Thomas revealed that the album has been in pre-production for over ten years, with eight to ten songs currently in the works. “They’ve been trickling the recorded music versions of them to me so that I can get myself in gear and started [on vocals],” he said. While he couldn’t provide a definitive release timeline,Thomas emphasized the importance of delivering a quality product. “I’m always scared to do that anyway, as it truly seems like every time you say something’s gonna happen at a certain time, it doesn’t,” he admitted. “But, yeah, we’re ready to get this thing going and give everybody a quality TROUBLE record. It’s been a long time.”
The singer also delved into his lyrical inspiration, explaining that his writing process is deeply personal yet versatile. “Most of what I write comes off my sleeve,” he said. “I like to write from my life experiences. That doesn’t mean that everything that I write has something to do with my life in particular. It might be current events that I’m looking at,it might be something that happened to someone I no that’s inspired me to jot something down.”
Thomas also shared a unique approach to songwriting, which involves improvisation. “There are times when I’ll scat into a microphone when I’m listening to a new piece of music and whatever comes out, if it sounds cool, I’ll try to find words that match what I scatted,” he explained. This experimental method,which he likened to “blowing things up,” keeps the creative process fresh and avoids repetitive patterns.
Reflecting on his role in TROUBLE, Thomas expressed a deep respect for the band’s legacy and original singer Eric Wagner. “I’m a TROUBLE fan. Before I was really even in bands, I was listening to TROUBLE,” he said. “I’m definately a fan of Eric and Eric’s work, his legacy, the band and its legacy. So,for me,it was never an option of… I’m not gonna sit there and pretend to sing like Eric or pretend to be Eric. I think that is a disservice to Eric and to me.”
Thomas’s passion for songwriting and production shines through in his dedication to the craft. “My passion is a lot more aligned with songwriting and production and the magic that you make with your music in that regard, more so than trying to be a virtuoso at this or that,” he said. “That’s less important to me than the quality of the craftsmanship of the material that you’re working on.”
As fans eagerly await the new album, Thomas’s insights offer a compelling look into the creative process behind one of metal’s most iconic bands.| Key Highlights |
|———————|
| Album Progress | 8-10 songs in pre-production,vocals underway |
| release Timeline | No definitive date,but work is ongoing |
| Lyrical Inspiration | Life experiences,current events,improvisation |
| Creative Beliefs | Focus on craftsmanship over virtuosity |
| Legacy Respect | Honors original singer Eric Wagner’s contributions |
Stay tuned for more updates on TROUBLE’s upcoming album,and let us know your thoughts on Kyle Thomas’s creative process in the comments below!
TROUBLE’s Legacy: A New Chapter After Eric wagner’s Passing
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the iconic doom metal band TROUBLE has weathered decades of change,from lineup shifts to the tragic loss of their original frontman,Eric Wagner,in 2021. Now, with a new album in the works and a fresh perspective, the band continues to honor its storied past while forging ahead.
A New Era for TROUBLE
TROUBLE, formed in 1979, has long been a cornerstone of the doom metal genre, releasing classic albums like “Trouble”, “Manic Frustration”, and “Plastic green Head”. However, the band faced a important turning point in 2008 when Eric Wagner, their original singer, left due to his aversion to the touring lifestyle. Wagner’s departure marked the beginning of a new chapter, with Kory Clarke (of WARRIOR SOUL fame) briefly stepping in before Kyle Thomas took over as the band’s vocalist in 2012.
Thomas, who made his recording debut with TROUBLE on their 2013 album “The Distortion Field”, has faced the challenge of filling Wagner’s shoes. The album,produced by legendary producer Bill Metoyer (known for his work with SLAYER,W.A.S.P., and ARMORED SAINT), landed at No. 25 on the Top New Artist albums (Heatseekers) chart. It was a pivotal moment for the band, showcasing their resilience and ability to adapt.
Honoring Eric Wagner’s Legacy
Eric Wagner’s influence on TROUBLE remains undeniable.His unique voice and lyrical depth defined the band’s sound, and his passing in August 2021 due to COVID pneumonia left a void in the metal community. Wagner’s bandmate Ron Holzner revealed that the singer was opposed to institutionalized medicine and refused to make an exception for the COVID vaccine.
“We argued about it, and he stood his ground on the matter,” Holzner told the Chicago Reader.
For Kyle Thomas, stepping into Wagner’s role has been both an honor and a challenge. “There’s people that probably never will love me in this band because I’m not Eric,” Thomas acknowledged. “And I mean,I can’t help that.So, the good news is those old records will never let you down. listen to those old records and stay home. and the people that wanna come see the show, they’ll come and enjoy it.”
Thomas has earned praise from longtime fans for his dedication to preserving the band’s legacy. “Man, we didn’t want to like you, but you do such a good job, it’s obvious that you care about the songs and the band,” one fan told him after a show.
Looking Ahead: A New Album
After years of delays, TROUBLE is finally working on a new album. The band had initially planned to record in 2020,but the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted those plans. Recording finally began in July 2022,according to founding guitarist Rick Wartell.Thomas, who joined the band in 2012, shared that this time around, the songs are being written with him in mind as the singer. “This time they’ve actually written songs with me in mind as the singer instead of, ‘These songs were written when Kory clarke was in the band, but that didn’t work out, so let’s give it to Kyle and have him back-cleanup, I guess,’” he explained in a 2019 interview with The Metal Magdalene With Jet.
Key Moments in TROUBLE’s History
| Year | Event |
|———-|—————————————————————————|
| 1979 | TROUBLE is formed in Chicago, Illinois. |
| 1984 | Release of their self-titled debut album,“Trouble”. |
| 1992 | “Manic Frustration” solidifies their place in doom metal history. |
| 2007 | “Simple Mind Condition” marks their return after a long hiatus. |
| 2013 | “The Distortion Field” debuts at No. 25 on the Heatseekers chart. |
| 2021 | eric Wagner passes away at 62 due to COVID pneumonia. |
| 2022 | Recording begins for a new album, their first in nearly a decade. |
The Road Ahead
As TROUBLE prepares to release their first album in six years, fans eagerly anticipate how the band will continue to evolve while staying true to their roots. With Kyle Thomas at the helm, the band is poised to honor the legacy of Eric Wagner while carving out a new path forward.
For those who cherish the band’s classic era, Thomas offers a simple reminder: “the good news is those old records will never let you down.”
Stay tuned for updates on TROUBLE’s upcoming album and tour dates by following their official website.
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What are your thoughts on TROUBLE’s journey? Share your favorite memories of the band in the comments below.Doom metal Pioneer Eric Wagner leaves a Lasting Legacy
The music world mourns the loss of Eric Wagner, the iconic frontman of doom metal legends Trouble, who passed away at the age of 62 after battling COVID pneumonia.Known for his distinctive voice and pioneering contributions to the genre, Wagner’s death has left a void in the heavy metal community.
wagner’s son, Luke, confirmed the heartbreaking news in a heartfelt Facebook post: “Hey all, this is Luke Wagner, his oldest son. Eric Wagner has passed away.” The declaration sent shockwaves through the music industry, with fans and fellow musicians paying tribute to the legendary singer.
A Life Lived on His Own Terms
Eric Wagner was more than just a musician; he was a storyteller, a free spirit, and a man who lived life unapologetically.As his longtime friend and bandmate Ron Holzner shared with the Chicago Reader, “I always joked, ‘The World According To Eric Wagner — you should write a book.’ He lived his life his way.”
Wagner’s journey was marked by both triumphs and struggles.A smoker who occasionally drank and vaped, he faced health challenges but had recently taken steps to improve his well-being. Holzner revealed that Wagner had adopted a plant-based diet and was making efforts to prioritize his health.
The Skull and Trouble: A Legacy of Doom
Wagner’s influence on doom metal is immeasurable. As the frontman of Trouble, he helped define the genre with albums like Psalm 9 and the skull.Later, he continued his musical journey with The Skull, a band formed by former Trouble members. The Skull had recently canceled their tour with The Obsessed due to the surge in COVID-19 cases, a decision that now carries a tragic weight.
A Community in Mourning
The news of wagner’s passing has sparked an outpouring of grief and admiration from fans and peers alike. His unique voice and lyrical depth resonated with listeners, earning him a place among the greats of heavy metal.
To honor his legacy, here’s a summary of key details about Eric Wagner’s life and career:
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Full Name | Eric Wagner |
| Age at Passing | 62 |
| Bands | Trouble, the Skull |
| Cause of Death | COVID pneumonia |
| Legacy | Pioneered doom metal, known for albums like Psalm 9 and The Skull |
| Recent Health Efforts| Adopted a plant-based diet, focused on self-care |
A Call to Remember
As we reflect on Eric Wagner’s life, let us celebrate his contributions to music and his unwavering authenticity. His story reminds us to live boldly and embrace our passions.
For those who wish to revisit his work, check out this live performance that captures the essence of his artistry.
eric Wagner may have left this plane too soon, but his music and spirit will continue to inspire generations to come.
Remembering Eric Wagner: A Doom Metal Legend
Editor: Eric Wagner’s passing has left a profound impact on the music world. Can you share some insights into his legacy and how he shaped the doom metal genre?
Guest: Absolutely. Eric Wagner was a true pioneer in doom metal. His work with Trouble laid the foundation for the genre with iconic albums like Psalm 9 and The Skull. His distinctive voice and lyrical depth brought a unique emotional resonance to the music, wich resonated deeply with fans. He wasn’t just a singer; he was a storyteller who painted vivid pictures with his words and melodies.
Editor: How did Eric Wagner’s personal journey influence his music and the way he connected with his audience?
Guest: Eric lived life on his own terms, and that authenticity shone through in his music.He was a free spirit who embraced both the highs and lows of life. His struggles and triumphs were reflected in his lyrics,making his work incredibly relatable. As his longtime friend and bandmate Ron Holzner mentioned, Eric’s life could have been a book. He was unapologetically himself,and that’s what made him so beloved by fans.
Editor: Eric Wagner’s health struggles were well-documented. How did he approach his well-being in his later years?
Guest: Eric faced health challenges, but he made significant efforts to improve his well-being. He adopted a plant-based diet and focused on self-care, which showed his determination to live a healthier life. Regrettably, his battle with COVID pneumonia proved insurmountable. It’s a reminder of how fragile life can be, even for someone as resilient as Eric.
Editor: What can fans expect from trouble moving forward, especially with Kyle Thomas taking the helm?
Guest: With Kyle Thomas leading the band, Trouble is poised to honor Eric Wagner’s legacy while forging a new path. Kyle has a deep respect for the band’s history, and as he mentioned, “the good news is those old records will never let you down.” Fans can look forward to new music and tour dates, which will undoubtedly carry the spirit of Trouble’s classic era while exploring fresh creative directions.
editor: How has the metal community responded to Eric Wagner’s passing?
Guest: The outpouring of grief and admiration has been immense. Fans and fellow musicians alike have shared heartfelt tributes, highlighting Eric’s impact on their lives and the genre. His music touched so many, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of metal artists. To honor him, I encourage everyone to revisit his work, like this live performance, which captures the essence of his artistry.
Conclusion
Eric wagner’s life and career were a testament to living authentically and passionately. As we mourn his loss, we celebrate his contributions to doom metal and the indelible mark he left on the music world. His legacy will live on through his timeless music and the countless lives he touched. Stay tuned for updates on trouble’s future endeavors, and let’s keep Eric’s spirit alive by continuing to share and enjoy his incredible body of work.
