Today the members of Slam One Down tells us about the title track to their latest album, "Who Really Wants to Live Forever." Here is the story:Bobby Brazen (Vocals): I remember when I began writing the lyrics for this song we only had a rough cut of the music and somebody said "I feel like this is going to be our Cowboys From Hell." And I feel like that's exactly what's happened with "Who Really Wants to Live Forever".. Being one of the earlier songs we wrote as a band, I already had a vision for what I wanted this song to do. Here was a band of guys who are no different than anyone else, who were going to take over the world headfirst, partying hard, full throttle, and on our own terms - because that's what we wanted to do. Just like the song says, "We're here to rock 'n roll, to change the world and take you all. No one can tell us we're wrong. NOW YOU'RE ONE OF US!!!!
J.R. (Guitars): The opening riff is really the foundation of the Slam One Down sound and groove. I've always liked riffs that I can hum or sing along to, and I also love when they make you have to work a little bit in metal, there's a time for big open chords and a time to be aggressive...and that's what happens here. This riff really moves and the gallops are always in keeping with a signature metal sound. I originally wrote the riff in a much higher register; more of a lead-type riff. After I played it a few times, I moved up the neck to the heaviest spot I could get it, and there you have it. The rest of the track flows so well with the riff because it all revolves around the same key as the intro.. The bridge was more of a heavy breakdown. but when I sat down to record it I kept hearing harmonies behind it. So, I decided to lay down those simple harmony riffs, and it worked out. Live, it's all about brutality. I am a big fan of build-ups, too, I love how the bridge builds up to a real heavy climax.
Shane(Bass): This song really does sum up the album and the attitude of Slam One Down. The way I see it, the message is two-pronged: who wants to do something that will live on and be greater than themselves? On the flip-side of that, it's "Who really cares? It's about doing what we love and having a great time while we're doing it!" Either way you interpret the song, if you are here with us, really getting into the song, then you're one of us!
Roach (Drums) : "Who Really Wants To live Forever" is the quintessential party rock anthem. With the anthemic chorus and thrash style throughout the song it's very fun to play live and see the crowd get into it. Out of all the songs on the album, this one is the most recognizable to me. The guitar riff intro tells you right away what's going to happen throughout the song and Bobby's vocals reaffirm that. The first time we played this live, and I saw people at shows singing along with the lyrics, I knew this song was going to be an instant hit. With this song, I really worked on my drum chops. I didn't previously play a lot of double bass in the songs, but this song definitely changed that. It's intricate in terms of playing and with the acrobatics I do with my sticks. I always look forward to playing this one in a set.
Hearing is believing. Now that you know the story behind the song, listen for yourself and learn more about the album right here!