Killswitch Engage have just released a follow-up to their 2019 studio album Atonement. Atonement II B-Sides For Charity dropped May 1 exclusive via Bandcamp for a week, with 100% of proceeds going to the COVID-19 relief fund for the Center for Disaster Philanthropy.
Check out new music from the 6-track EP below and be sure to support the band and a good cause, purchase the EP today HERE.
Killswitch Engage guitarist Joel Stroetzel joins us for setlist.fm's Quarantini Hour. The metal rocker talks musical projects, TV, music picks and more! Check out how Stroetzel is passing pandemic time, below.
How have you / your band been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic?
Obviously, any band that tours for a living has been grounded by this whole situation. We had a pretty busy year set up, and now everything is in question! Hopefully, in the coming months, things will slowly get back to being "somewhat normal." We are all very much looking forward to being able to play shows again, but for the time being, the health and safety of music fans everywhere is far more important. Folks should stay home for now!
Paint us a picture of your current headquarters.
My current headquarters has just been my house. I haven’t left much in the last month and a half or so. Thankfully, I have a small studio setup here… and a comfy living room! I have a pretty good setup down in my basement as well — small bar, good stereo. It’s a good spot to have a beer and listen to tunes!
What activities have you been doing to keep yourself busy?
I’ve been working on quite a bit of music over the last few weeks. The other project I’m involved in, Brothers Born, has a new record in the works. So I’ve been slowly wrapping up some of those songs. In addition to that, I’ve been playing guitar on a few other local projects, and helping a few friends with their records. I’ve been working on a new pop rock kinda project with my good friend and local musician Mark Schwaber, which has been fun. Beyond that, a few projects in the house. My wife and I have been redoing part of our basement, and hanging with the dogs on the couch of course!
What movies and TV have you been watching?
My wife and I have been obsessed with Homeland. Great show and a rollercoaster ride. Looking forward to seeing how that wraps up. I also love old horror movies. I find myself frequently watching some of my faves. The Thing and The Exorcist are at the top of the list.
What music or podcasts have you been listening to?
As far as music, I listen to all kinds of stuff. As far as metal, the new Testament record is killer! Kirk Windstein’s new record Dream in Motion is awesome. I’ve been loving the latest Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds record, Ghosteen. I’m excited to check out the new Greg Dulli record as I’m a huge Afghan Whigs fan. Pinegrove is a killer band. [I’ve been into] lots of mellower stuff lately! I seem to be on a Pink Floyd kick, as well.
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Are you planning on tuning into or producing any livestream performances?
I’m not a big internet guy, other than lurking on guitars and amps on Reverb and eBay. We’ve all been talking about putting together some video content for the social media world though. There will be things to come!
How can fans support you in this time of tour postponements and social distancing?
I think the main thing fans can do at this time to support their favorite bands is to buy merch and records online, and keep the tunes streaming.
What’s your best song for getting through a scary/confusing time?
"Bring it On" by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds is a great tune for tough times. Love it.
What are a few of your best songs for an at-home workout playlist?
For an at home workout: "DNR" by Testament, "Crossbreaker" by Power Trip, and anything Napalm Death.
Where can fans get the latest info and updates from you?
Fans can follow us on Facebook or Instagram or Twitter, and check out our site killswitchengage.com for the latest updates on what we’re up to. Everyone stay safe out there!
