Having just released their debut single, Kill The Action are turning the spotlight on electro-rock, a genre that is gaining popularity in Malta. Ramona Depares interviews the band to find out more.

How did Kill The Action come together?

Kill The Action was formed around three years ago when we all joined forces. We had all collaborated at varying degrees during our teens and had even shared practice spaces during this period. We, therefore, had a good idea of each member’s respective roots, preferences and capabilities which, in itself, paved the way for the ongoing development of the band’s sound.

A still from the video The Inside.

How do you describe your music?

Kill The Action blends melodic and heavy guitar sounds with ambient-style synths, fat synth bass sounds, groovy beats and deep vocal lines. It is reminiscent of an approach to song-writing traditionally associated with electronic music which, however, contains a fair dose of alternative and rock influences. One might say that it is the song-writing process itself which has defined the band’s musical direction.

What can you tell us about your first single, The Inside?

The track deals with defying conformity, as well as with the constant struggle associated with one’s inevitable quest for freedom and inner peace. The lyrics are, however, essentially abstract in nature, allowing for interpretation and reflection. The Inside was actually one of the first tracks produced by the band and its electronic backbone is heavily influenced by the industrial sound developed in the 1990s. This was, in itself, instrumental in setting the tone for subsequent arrangements.

Our individual styles of playing have, at times, had to take a back seat in the interests of the particular track under production

This was the first release together as a band. What was the creative process like?

The Inside was originally more guitar-driven and rock-oriented. However, over time, rock influences were diluted to accommodate a more electronic approach in line with the band’s direction. This, in turn, opened up new boundaries which were previously unfamiliar to the band and which became the hallmark of Kill The Action’s subsequent material, leading the band to experiment with recording and producing its own material.

Between all band members, there is a diversity of music influences. Since you formed Kill The Action, have you seen an evolution or change in your individual styles?

It is always an ongoing challenge to merge electronic and rock influences seamlessly. Our individual styles of playing have, at times, had to take a back seat in the interests of the particular track under production. This has, in itself, aided the song-writing process which has, over time, become more focused and task-oriented, particularly by structuring arrangements around what we like to refer to as an electronic backbone.

For the first single you went all out and also released a professional video. How did this collaboration come about and what is the concept behind it?

We were intent on providing a showcase to The Inside which was reflective of the track’s lyrics, as well as its underlying message and tone. We, unanimously, agreed to discuss these ideas with Eric Mangion, a close friend of the band, who added his own unique style and eclectic approach to the mix. Eric was able to translate our ideas into a final product which brings the track’s potential to the fore.

Are you planning more re-leases? What about live gigs?

Following the release of The Inside, as well as the positive feedback, work is well under way on a music video which will accompany the release of the band’s second single, Last Train, to be released in the very near future.

We will keep you updated through our Facebook page, YouTube and Instagram account.

Kill the Action are Simon Deguara, Mark Zammit, Herman Spiteri and Andre Portelli.

www.facebook.com/killtheaction