Force of Habit is a band that defies easy categorization. With a sound that fuses metal, funk, and rock and roll, and a penchant for all things theatrical and macabre, this Atlanta-based group is anything but predictable. Since their formation in 1997, they've been making waves in the metal scene, sharing stages with heavyweights like Testament, Trivium, and Death Angel, and developing a reputation for their high-energy, electrifying live shows. With a debut album under their belt and a new EP on the horizon, Force of Habit is showing no signs of slowing down. We sat down with Eli Cuadra, Camo Hunter, Wayne Johnson, and Kevin Hyatt to talk about their music, their inspirations, and what's next for the band.
1.Can you tell us how Force of Habit first formed and how you all met?
We formed in 96 here in Atlanta after the 96Summer games… We actually started as a cover band that played a couple originals. Our original stuff was much preferred so we laid focus to writing which ended up being Madness by Design in 2004. Throughout the years people have come and gone on to other things… I'm the last original one from the early band.
2.How would you describe your music and sound to someone who has never heard it before?
Melodic controlled Chaos…
3.What inspired the band's name "Force of Habit"?
It was kinda funny… started out as a joke.
"Why did you do that? - Oh Force of Habit!"
So that just stuck
4.How do you approach songwriting and creating new material?
I myself usually sit down ( after a sensible herbal cigarette) and riff on my guitar… anything cool is brought up at practice…usually have a main riff and a verse… and we all jammed on it…
Then let the magic happen
5.What are some of the biggest influences on your music and style?
Old Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, Iron Maiden then Pantera, Sepulveda etc.
6.What can fans expect from your upcoming EP, and how will it differ from your previous work?
I'd say it's a lot more brutal but on the same note, more mature sound. Deeper
7.What has been your favorite performance or show to date, and why?
Sun and Steel Metal Fest
Expo Center Tampa Bay Fla.
04..05? With Testament, Obituary, Body Count, Trivium… bunch more! Chuck Billy loved our set and had Dean our singer join him on a song! Epic
8.How has the band evolved since your debut album "Madness by Design"?
More of a mature sound I guess. We've found what we do/write best and roll with it
9.How do you balance the theatrical and visual aspects of your live shows with the music itself?
We always try to give them a surprise or. something different to talk about…
10.What has been the biggest challenge the band has faced so far, and how did you overcome it?
Personel change…people change after time so every time a new person comes into the band things change. That's the tough thing to retain your sound.
11.How do you handle creative differences and conflicts within the band?
The 4 of us vote… I'm the tie breaker
12.Can you tell us about any funny or memorable experiences you've had while on tour?
The above concert I was talking about.
Was chatting with Chuck Billy ɓackstage and had to go piss… I ran back to the big old artist bathroom, bust in and Ice T is butt ass naked and had Cocoa bent over the sink just driving her home!!!lol I apologized, he smiled and I left. Later during the show he saw me and came over to bump fists!
13.How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected the band's plans and live performances?
We had a drummer bow out that August before. So it took us 3 years to find a drummer because of it.
14.How do you engage with your fans and build a strong connection with your audience?
We always hang out before and after the shows to meet as many new friends as we can.
15.Can you share any upcoming tour dates or festival appearances?
Nothing but a couple small shows right now. Recording soon… waiting to hear about some fall festival stuff.
16.How important is it for the band to maintain a DIY ethos and remain independent in your music career?
It's everything! Anything big involved always diluted the music and message.
17.What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who want to pursue a career in the metal genre?
Have a good back up plan.. 😆
Persistence!
18.Lastly, what's next for Force of Habit, and what are your long-term goals for the band?
Well, we're getting some recording done soon so we'll see what everyone thinks and take it from there! We've been field testing some of the new ones and everyone loves it so far…
Thank you
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