Hey metalheads! We recently caught up with Danny M and Joey from Dead Skin Mask, the ultimate Slayer tribute band. They shared insights about their gear, their passion for Slayer, and what it’s like to play at lightning speeds. Read on for an in-depth look at what makes this band tick and why they’re a must-see for any Slayer fan.
Javier: Hey guys, I saw you perform at Bonds 007 last Friday. Great job!
Danny M: Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed the show.
Javier: Do you always play 10 times faster than Slayer, or was that just a special treat for Friday?
Danny M: Not all the time. When I practice at home, I play along with Slayer CDs at their original speed. But when we get together as a band, we do tend to play faster. I doubt it's 10 times faster, though! (laughs)
Javier: I never thought songs like "Sex, Murder, Art" or "War Ensemble" could be played faster than when Paul Bostaph was in Slayer. You guys proved me wrong!
Danny M: Slayer's music is incredible. The energy, speed, aggression, and chaos are palpable, whether you're at a concert or just listening to a CD. Playing their music at our speeds is both satisfying and addictive.
Javier: Joey, you're the youngest in Dead Skin Mask. Have you been a Slayer fan for most of your life?
Joey: Absolutely. I got hooked in junior high when a friend lent me "Diabolus in Musica." It was the greatest music I'd ever heard, and it still is. Their dark, unique sound captivated me.
Javier: Have you had any trouble getting into clubs because of your age?
Joey: Not yet. So far, my age hasn't been an issue for any of our gigs.
Javier: What gear are you using?
Danny M: My main guitar is an ESP Custom Shop Jeff Hanneman, equipped with EMG 85s and an EMG SPC. It's tuned to E flat and strung with 10s. My backup is an ESP/LTD Jeff Hanneman JH-600, one of only 48 in the world. For amps, I use a Marshall JCM 800 2203X with SED Winged C EL34 power tubes and GT-12AX7-C preamp tubes. My cab is an ENGL Vintage Pro 4x12. I also use a POD XT LIVE for effects during leads. My signal chain is Guitar -> SD-1 -> Marshall 2203X -> Pod XT Live in FX loop -> ENGL Pro 4x12. For backup, I have a Marshall DSL 50.
Joey: I play through an Ibanez half stack and use a B.C. Rich Kerry King Signature guitar.
Javier: Dead Skin Mask seems like it has been together for years. Did you all grow up together in high school bands?
Danny M: No, we didn't. I met Mykill less than a year ago through an ad in a local magazine. Joey joined after responding to a flyer I posted at a music store. Mykill already knew Romeo from a previous band.
Javier: How long have you been with Dead Skin Mask?
Joey: About five months.
Javier: You guys do a fantastic job. It’s clear your heart is in it. Keep playing and bringing fans an excellent tribute. There are too many bad tribute bands out there giving the genre a bad name. Slayer tributes are popping up fast, but hopefully, the poor ones won't deter people from seeing you guys.
Joey: Thanks for coming to the show and for taking the time to chat.
Danny M: Thank you, Javier. I enjoyed the questions. I love talking about amps, guitars, tone, and Slayer music.
At the time of this interview, Dead Skin Mask consists of:
For more information, check out their official website.
Dead Skin Mask is not just another tribute band; they are a testament to the enduring legacy of Slayer. Their dedication to capturing the essence of Slayer's music makes them a must-see for any fan.
