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Red Snow on the Rise
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Red Snow has fought their way through the California music scene to rise up to become one of the mos...Red Snow has fought their way through the California music scene to rise up to become one of the most unique and talented up-and-coming heavy metal bands on the scene today. Nominated for best rock album at The Armenian Music Awards in 2004, 2005, and 2006 Red Snow was awarded USA4real Radio’s “Best Live Performance” of 2007. I had the opportunity to speak with founder/lead guitarist Vahe “V” Marzbetuny about their first full length release “The Fifth”.
First of all, I want to congratulate you on the release of “The Fifth”. It's a great album and the reviews it's getting are excellent. Red Snow emerged as one the first Armenian/American heavy metal bands in the Los Angeles area. How did you all meet and form the band? How long have you been together?
We started RS back in 86 as a group of friends who ditched school to meet up and "Jam". We were kids , and huge fans of Metal. growing up in Hollywood CA, we were fortunate enough to be able to go to the sunset strip on weekends to check out bands like, Motley Crue, Quiet Riot, and Ratt to name just a few, and were heavily influenced by their presence and music. So eventually when we got better at our instruments we said lets get serious and start playing out. and we did. fast forward 2010 we are still a bunch a kids at heart doing what we love to do. Kinda scary! LOL!
I'd like to talk for a moment about how you got started in music. Was there a particular defining moment when you said to yourself, "That's what I want to do… I want to be in a rock band"?
Yes! I clearly remember that moment! I was partying with friends at our fave party spot which we dubbed "Van Halen View" cause we believed our hero, Eddie Van Halen’s house was in sight from there. We all knew to meet there every night and blast music and drink and shoot the shit. This one night, I was listening to The Scorpions, “Animal Magnetism" album, to be exact, and I remember the music overtook me. I had a moment with God and was told this is your calling. You can do it and from that moment on, I’ve been playing guitar. That same week, I went to the Whisky with a close friend to check out a band called DuBrow , who eventually became Quiet Riot. I was blown away by their guitarist Carlos Cavazo. I approached him as a 16 year old kid, and asked him if he was willing to give me guitar lessons. He agreed and taught me everything I know. More importantly we became best friends and still are today! He supports Red Snow, and has appeared on stage with us a few times as well. I took that as a sign, and haven’t looked back yet. He used my Fender strat on the clean part/verses of "Metal Health" the song . I was with him driving in my car when they played it on the radio for the first time, we went crazy!! That was another sign to me. The album hit #1 on billboard in 1982, The first Heavy Metal album to go that! I still get goose bumps.
Everyone in the band is talented rock artists. Has anyone had any special musical training or lessons?
As mentioned, I was taught by the great Carlos Cavazo (Quiet Riot, Ratt). I also went to GIT in Hollywood for about a year. My brother Z, was taught Flamenco guitar at a young age, was excellent with his finger picking technique, so when i need a Bass player he stepped up and i the monster that he is today i believe due to that. Chris Daniel has been playin the drums since he was born. He is only 20 years old and already a monster behind the kit. He & I wrote the music for "The Fifth", he too is a MI graduate. and has studied under some amazing players And is a phenom in the making. Mr.Jack our keyboardist was taught classical piano as a young buck, and is a huge Hip -Hop fan, so that combination brings this unique texture of sound to the band. Jezter is a vocal Master as you know already. He can do it all, his range is spectacular. His creativity is mind blowing. He is also a virtuoso on the harmonica and plays bass. He sang in "Armenian" on Dzagheegner " and played the mandolin on it as well!! Unbelievable!! He's just a natural born killa and it show's on "The Fifth".
Why did you choose to name your band Red Snow and does it have any special meaning for you?
It was the name of a "Twilight Zone" episode and was very unique. We all liked it and it stuck. Over the years people have come up with their own interpretation of what it means, that alone makes it interesting.
The album “The Fifth” has a very unique and intense sound. Who is the mastermind behind the songwriting?
It was a team effort. Musically, Chris Daniel and myself came up with most of the music. We had help from "The Apprentice" Narek Stepanian who helped with a couple of them as well. Jezter did his magic with the lyrics and Z and Mr.Jack provided the salt and pepper and it all came together and captured that time and place in our lives. We are very proud of it.
Were there any particular challenges that stick out in your mind during the creation of this album?
Oh ya!! Our producer Levon Sultanian pushed us all very hard. Challenged each and everyone of us out of our comfort zone, which allowed us to branch out and go places we had never gone before. He is the force behind "The Fifth". he also joined in on the fun and sang on "Starstruck" making it his vocal debut. and those funny voice messages you hear throughout the record is also him! LOL!!!
What are the influences for the songs? Generally musicians draw upon personal experience. Is that the case here?
No Doubt. Jezter is a poet. A master of writing from his experiences. He really is a force to be reckoned with. Just listen to Sir. Ender: "Maybe i should thank you for the hell you put me through". WOW! That was the first song we did together. It leaves me speechless. I wrote "My January" which is about my crazy life, living with the 2 women in my life, who were both born in January. So most definitely we draw from our life experiences.
The album "The Fifth" has a great variety of songs, great production, and is very original. How long did it take to record the album? Were there any challenges to overcome?
The album took nearly 3 years. we kept going back and fine tuning, polishing so to speak, every second of this record. Levon Sultanian is the reason for the great production. he taught us patience, and not to be satisfied with it till we tried each and every option, before we moved to the next song. I believe this is the best body of work we have created. and i am honored to have my name on it.
“The Fifth” was produced by Levon Sultanian (Abloom, Onesidezero) and mixed & mastered by Ulrich Wild (Incubus, Pantera, Deftones). What was it like working with such legendary people in the industry?
It was a dream come true. For real. When you are working with such talent. it makes you proud that they believe in you and care deeply enough to make sure everything is perfect. We overcame numerous challenges, and conquered them all. I mean to have such legends believe in our work to want to be part of it speaks for itself.
Red Snow has a video out for the song “Mental Continental”. What was it like making the video? Anything in particular that stands out in your mind?
First and foremost, Thanks to Karpis Maksudian for having the vision to make it come to life. He knew what he wanted, and pushed us to achieve his goal. It was the first we video we made together and it was a blast. We all chose freaky monster/masks outfits and if you look closely, you will see, after all it's Mental Continental. It was a blast. Levon played the doctor which was a tribute to him as well.
It takes a lot of work to practice and stay together especially when juggling other responsibilities such as family life. How do you manage it all?
You said it! It is not easy. Most of us have kids, and we still make our band a priority. Though family ALWAYS comes first. I am very thankful to be blessed to have my wife and daughter, AND my band. If we were doing this for fun, it would fizzle out eventually. Each and every member are true artists, and we love creating music…we are doing this for all the right reasons. It's one big happy family.
What does it feel like to be up on stage when playing live? Also, what do you enjoy most about being in a band…performing live, recording an album, making a video, or something else?
It is one of the most amazing feelings I have ever experienced. Connecting with the audience is what its all about. It comes natural, like breathing. Performing live, recording an album, and making a video are all part of the being a musician. I love them all equally. They each have the same great feeling, and satisfaction. They all go hand in hand. All of the above! lol.
What does Red Snow have planned for the future?
Staying together for a long time and continuing to create music and growing as we go. We are looking into some options right now. Got some interest coming out of Japan and Europe at the moment. Whatever happens happens, as long as we enjoy doing this , we will be around for a long while, God willing.
In closing, I'd like to say thank you for taking the time to interview... it's been a pleasure. I wish you much success in the future.
Thanks Meliisa, we appreciate it! Thanks for your support.
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Red Snow - The Fifth
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Hailing from California, Red Snow is out with their first full length album entitled "The Fifth". Th...Hailing from California, Red Snow is out with their first full length album entitled "The Fifth". This hardcore metal band combines thrashy heavy music with some crazy evil vocals to create something so original and masterful it will blow your mind. Produced by Levon Sultanian (Abloom, Onesidezero) mixed & mastered by the legendary Ulrich Wild (Deftones, Incubus, Pantera) this album is a carnival ride into an evil dream that you cannot escape. The vocals on this album are amazing. Award winning vocalist, Jezter Detroit has incredible range and ability. At times comparable to Rob Halford of Judas Priest and Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden. The crazy, hypnotic, and almost operatic yet hardcore tone of the vocals give this album it's originality and distinctness which sets it apart from other metal albums. The powerful electric guitar riffs coming from Vahe “V” Marzbetuny are non-stop. Incredible screaming guitar solos and eerie riffs showcase the absolute powerhouse guitar work on this album. The drums, coming from Chris Daniel, are hit with lightning speed and accuracy. The tempo changes are seamless. The bass work from Zareh “Big Daddy Z” Marzbetuny is top notch...carrying the rhythm of the album with preciseness. The ambient keyboard work of Jack “Mr. Jack” Kurdian provides great atmosphere as it brings your mind to an eerie place. Furthermore, the song writing creates a stir of emotion and takes you on a journey into the mind of a mad man. This is one of the most original albums I've heard this year and the variety of the album is tremendous. So strap yourself in and get ready for the ride of your life...You will not be disappointed with this one.
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Through Bleeding Ears
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Los Angeles based Red Snow is a band who have spent some time evolving and finding the right pieces ...Los Angeles based Red Snow is a band who have spent some time evolving and finding the right pieces to creating their unique sound. Formed by brothers, guitarist Vahe and bassist Zareh Marzbetuny, who had spent years shaping their sound into what it is today.
The two recruited keyboardist Jack Kurdian, rhythm guitarist Narek Stepanian and drummer Shant Sarkissian to form the musical nucleus of Red Snow. Creating sounds ranging from melodic hard rock to spastic angst ridden sounds to traditional Armenian rooted sound, Red Snow has slowly found the right pieces towards building their unique sound.
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Former ONESIDEZERO/ABLOOM Guitarist Working With RED SNOW - May 29, 2010
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Former ONESIDEZERO/ABLOOM guitarist Levon Sultanian has been holed up in the studio with the Los Ang...Former ONESIDEZERO/ABLOOM guitarist Levon Sultanian has been holed up in the studio with the Los Angeles heavy rock band RED SNOW. He has been producing and recording new songs with the group, which is currently seeking a recording/distribution deal. Levon also makes his vocal debut on the track "Starstruck".
Commented RED SNOW guitarist V: "Levon pushed and inspired us to examine every second of every song over the past year and, without a doubt, has helped us to achieve what we set out to do from the beginning."
Having previously worked with Ulrich Wild (DEFTONES, PANTERA, OTEP), on ONESIDEZERO's self titled release, Levon felt Ulrich's touch to the RED SNOW sound would be a match made in hell! In addition, the band's single, "Mental Continental", was co-arranged by close friend, Serj Tankian.
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RED SNOW: Levon Sultanian Resurfaces to Produce and Record with Red Snow
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Former ONESIDEZERO/ABLOOM guitarist Levon Sultanian has been holed up in the studio with the Los Ang...Former ONESIDEZERO/ABLOOM guitarist Levon Sultanian has been holed up in the studio with the Los Angeles heavy rock band RED SNOW. He has been producing and recording new songs with the group, which is currently seeking a recording/distribution deal. Levon Sultanian also makes his vocal debut on the track “Starstruck”.
Commented RED SNOW guitarist V: “Levon pushed and inspired us to examine every second of every song over the past year and, without a doubt, has helped us to achieve what we set out to do from the beginning.”
Having previously worked with Ulrich Wild (Deftones, Pantera), on ONESIDEZERO’s self titled release, Levon felt Ulrich’s touch to the RED SNOW sound would be a match made in hell. In addition, the band’s single, “Mental Continental”, was co-arranged by close friend, Serj Tankian.
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USA4REAL - Red Snow
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Ahh yes, this is the band that Pop culture will reject. Hence, the very reason why this Armenian- so...Ahh yes, this is the band that Pop culture will reject. Hence, the very reason why this Armenian- soul-driven hardcore rock band out of Hollywood, California gains popularity...
Red Snow has evolved into one of L.A.s unique hard rock bands and continues to create music on many different levels.
If you cannot describe a Perfect Nowhere, then you should let Red Snow just do it for you. This is not a day in age where it has to Smell Like Teen Spirit to be the shit. We’ve got the internet and MySpace whores to figure out on their own damn time what they like and dislike. You won’t know Red Snow's soul until you meet the humble giant, Vahe Marzbetuny (also more commonly known as "V" or "The Godfather" to those close too him. He’s never quite had the break to make him the living legend that he truly may become with this rock ensemble. His electrifying riffs are what propels the very will of this band. V likes to remind me, each time we talk, usually sighing with an optimistic half full glass that things are really starting to click. Luke , " I’m really just starting to have fun. he laughs. Backed by his brother Zareh aka "Z" on bass, Jack "Mr. White" Kurdian ..boards, and Narek Stepanian rhythm guitars, we have Red Snow. A band that may become an Armenian Mythical Powerhouse with their Hardcore Metal sound. What’s not in, may not necessarily be out of style. RS’ originality proves that the snow everywhere else may be white, but in LA, it precipitates a particular shade of Red as our Perfect Nowhere echoes a raging sound.
-Luke Wryder
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Featured Artist: RED SNOW
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Red Snow
Hollywood
You’re not likely to find members of Red Snow droppin...Red Snow
Hollywood
You’re not likely to find members of Red Snow dropping names at a Hollywood Hills pool party. Instead, over the years, and despite peronnel rotations, this Hollywood rock band has built a loyal fan base and avoided compromise of any kind. By harnessing the power of the internet this “Armenian Mythical Powerhouse” in-the-making has made no apologies for their Hard-Core Metal sound in a town that seldom celebrates originality.
Nominated for best rock album at The Armenian Music Awards in 2004, 2005, and 2006 Red Snow was awarded USA4real Radio’s “Best Live Performance” of 2007. Their much anticipated CD “The Fifth”, produced by Levon Sultanian, mixed & mastered by legendary Ulrich Wild, is due out in early 2010.
VOCALIST: Jezter Detroit was awarded the Rock Vocalist Award at the Detroit Music Awards in 2005, and has had NUMEROUS nominations including Blues Vocalist, Harmonica Instrumentalist, and a few Outstanding Recording nominations. As of August 2007, Jezter moved to Hollywood, CA to LIVE his musical dream! Immediately he found his way on to VH1 Reality TV Show “ROCK OF LOVE–Charm School” Episode One with Sharon Osbourne, and now has found a perfect match with RED SNOW.
LEAD GUITARIST: Vahe “V” Marzbetuny is often praised as a lyrical, soulful guitarist and is the heart and soul of the band. He has recorded with Serj Tankian and Arto Tuncboyadjian on the CD entitled “Serart” on a song called “Devils Wedding”. Vahe along with his brother Zareh, both were members of a successful rock band in the 90’s called “Mach 1”. Their debut Mach 1 CD is still selling worldwide.
BASSIST: Zareh “Big Daddy Z” Marzbetuny is a skilled bass player with a unique ability to play a wide range of styles. His crisp, round earth-shaking sound fills a room. His firm rhythm makes him one of the most in-demand bassists around. He’s a funny guy with funny things to say and plays some burnin bass riffs.
KEYBOARDIST: Jack “Mr. Jack” Kurdian shows his ability to mix his assorted keyboards and synths (strings, textures, piano) in songs that are accessible yet (at times) free-flowing enough to be quasi-ambient. He has brought a unique style of his own to RED SNOW. “Mr. Jack” is in tha House!
DRUMMER: Shant “Ruckus” Sarkissian adds an incredible rhythmic backbone. He has a knack for placing the right beat in the right places. His use of space and his energy is amazing. Another fine example of a drummer who’s playing is complete self expression.
RYTHM GUITARIST: Narek Stepanian played an important role in the making of the new E.P. His songwriting and rhythm guitar skills shaped the new sound for RED SNOW!
Chris Daniel is a rapidly growing drummer in the music scene. His versatility on both drum set and percussion have made him an in demand player for live and in the studio. Chris Daniel recorded all the drums for the upcoming RED SNOW release.
We asked Vahe “V” Marzbetuny: Founder and Guitarist, about the realities of the business and life on the Hollywood scene.
AAN: You all live and play in a town that is essentially the heart of an industry. An industry of entertainment that perpetuates a culture where celebrity takes a front seat and substance is secondary, if not an afterthought. Would you agree? How does Red Snow manage to ignore all of that and maintain integrity in your music?
V: Without a doubt, you hit right on the button. As an “unsigned band” you have to try to ignore the fact that “celebrity” takes precedent over EVERYTHING in this town. Unfortunately, we are all judged by how much money we have, or what kind of car we drive, how big our house is, OR “How many albums have you sold?” Making a mark on the world is hard. If it were easy, everyone would do it right? I believe it takes a LOT of patience, commitment, failure, and a little bit of luck along the way. Focusing your life on solely making the almighty dollar shows a poverty of ambition and will ultimately leave you unfulfilled. When we signed up to be in a Rock band, we knew that there are no guarantees in Rock n Roll!!! Probably playing Super Lotto has better odds of success! So we do our best to stay true to the music, through our deep conviction/ passion for creating melodies mixed with story lines that everyone can relate to. We Love what we do. That’s why we are in this game. Actually, we wrote a song on our upcoming CD called “Starstruck” which describes how so many people are “Starstruck” over celebrity. It’s really silly if you think about it.
AAN: The track Sugar Daddy on your most recent EP caught my attention. On their own the lyrics stand as poetry, and as I understood, written from an intimate perspective. Can you tell us more about the song and the video? Who’s responsible for the video?
V: The music was written by Narek Stepanian , Chris Daniel & myself. The lyrics came afterwards; we didn’t have a vocalist at the time. Prior to finding our vocalist Jezter, We were frustrated with the search for a vocalist, so one night, Levon Sultanian (our producer) and I were talking on the phone, he challenged me to write whatever comes to mind without thought, and see what happens. He was like “You write some lyrics Man! Have it ready so when you find a vocalist you’re good to go.” Sugar Daddy is what happened, I had Chocolate on my mind I suppose, and it all came to life. To be called poetry is a tremendous compliment. Thank you.
The video was my creation as well, I decided to gather clips that describe the song and piece them together to create a visual to the music. It was experimental to say the least.
Red Snow is a team. A team of talented Individuals trying to create an interesting body of music. As I mentioned before, Narek Stepanian & Chris Daniel played monster roles in the making of our upcoming CD “The Fifth”. We have Levon Sultanian (Abloom, Onesidezero) producing us, we have Ulrich Wild (Incubus, Pantera, Deftones) to name just a few, mixing and mastering the songs. We are so very fortunate to have such amazing people who believe in us.
AAN: Any advice you would share with young Armenians who might want to start a band?
V: I have a two year old daughter, if she wants to start a band I would support her 100%. BUT, I would definitely advise her to not put all her eggs in one basket. Why limit herself to one thing? I mean the Industry is very unstable and is changing by the minute. It would be risky at best to try to make a living as an artist, so why not have a back-up plan as well. Most definitely follow your Dream/Passion till the end and enjoy the process.
AAN: What are your thoughts about the competitive nature of the scene, or is it? What do you think is the best way to handle ourselves as Armenian artists?
V: It is as competitive as you make it. We all want to be successful at what we Love to do, as in any field. I would say just be real, and true to yourself, and everything will fall into place. Support your local Armenian musician!!!
