What does Shai Hulud mean?
Shai Hulud comes from Frank Herbert's science fiction epic series, Dune. Shai Hulud are the giant sandworms on the desert planet Arrakis (also known as Dune). Although they are called many different names, when the sandworms are referred to as SHAI-HULUD, it usually indicates the worm as on object of worship in Fremen (natives of Dune) superstitions.
Why use the name Shai Hulud?
Why not!?! OK, seriously folks... When we started, we knew we wanted everything about the band to have significance. The band's name was picked before any lyrics were written. The band that would be named, Shai Hulud, had musical direction, but alas, no motif or theme, therefore, we decided the name should have a literary or cinematic background. After considering many different types of books and movies, we settled on, Dune for its brilliance, and the richness and uniqueness of its characters. We also chose Dune, because we wanted a name from a mature book or movie with a following that was more selective than that of books or movies with tremendous popularity. So, Dune was chosen, but what in tarnation were we going to name the band? Matt Fox (guitar) wanted to name the band, Harkonnen - mainly because of Kenneth McMillan's brilliant portrayal of Baron Harkonnen in the original film, but original bass player Dave Silber wasn't fond of the name. He felt Harkonnen sounded like a name for a "Viking metal band" and also disliked the similarity with the word Hardcore. Shai Hulud was finally chosen as a result of a miscommunication between Matt and Dave (sic). Dave liked the look of the original movie's Third Stage Navigator and suggested that character to name the band after. Matt thought Dave was referring to the sandworms and thus, Shai Hulud, was confirmed. When Matt and Dave watched the movie together, they realized the miscommunication, however, and decided to keep band named Shai Hulud, as it had more of a ring than Third Stage Navigator.
Is Shai Hulud a straight edge or Christian band?
No, we are not. As it states in our debut full length, Hearts Once Nourished With Hope and Compassion, as a band, we make no claim to any one creed, deep philosophy or religion; these liner notes, written by original bass player, Dave Silber, still ring true today. Shai Hulud is comprised of members that have varied views on many different topics and issues; when represented as a collective, we only acknowledge the beliefs everyone involved is comfortable with, such as, but not limited to, a general discontent for man and his actions, the poor state of communication, understanding, and reaching common ground, and the overall lack of care and compassion exhibited by people towards themselves, others, and the environment.
Are any of the members of Shai Hulud straight-edge or Christian?
Yes and no. Please read below.
Matt Fletcher (bass) and Tony Tintari (drums) proudly use the term straight-edge to describe themselves. Matt Fox is as edge as can be, but has never used the term when referring to himself, and Geert Van der Velde (vocals) does not use the term straight-edge as he will upon occasion have a drink or two.
Although not Christians, Matt Fox (guitar), and Tony Tintari (drums) have slowly been making an effort to explore their own spirituality for a few years now. The other members have no strong spiritual or religious beliefs, currently.
The following is information pertaining to the status of prior members being straight-edge and / or Christian during the individual's direct involvement as a functioning and contributing member of Shai Hulud. Said persons' status' may have changed since the parting of the person and Shai Hulud. Please note: The term straight-edge refers to the members abstinence from alcohol, drugs, and smoking devices, but does not imply they used said term to describe themselves.
Jared Allen (bass) was straight-edge, but was not Christian.
Chris Cardinal (drums) was straight-edge, but was not Christian.
Oliver Chapoy (guitar) was not straight-edge and was not Christian.
Chad Gilbert (vocals) was straight-edge and Christian.
Steve Kleisath (drums) was not straight-edge, but was Christian.
Damien Moyal (vocals) was straight-edge, but was not Christian.
Dave Silber (bass guitar) was not straight-edge and was not Christian.
Are any of the members of Shai Hulud vegan or vegetarian?
Yes, Geert Van der Velde (vocals) is, and has been, vegan for a few years due to his political and ethical beliefs on the consumption of meat. Matt Fletcher (bass) is not vegan, but is, and has been, vegetarian for a few years, also due to his political and ethical beliefs on meat consumption. Tony Tintari (drums) is vegetarian, and rarely consumes dairy products due to personal and ethical beliefs. Matt Fox (guitar) is neither vegetarian nor vegan.
The following is information pertaining to the status of prior members being vegan or vegetarian. Again, this information only applies during the individual's direct involvement as a functioning and contributing member of Shai Hulud and said persons' status' may have changed since the parting of the person and Shai Hulud.
Jared Allen (bass) was neither vegan nor vegetarian.
Chris Cardinal (drums) was neither vegan nor vegetarian.
Oliver Chapoy (guitar) was neither vegan nor vegetarian.
Chad Gilbert (vocals) was not vegan, but was vegetarian.
Steve Kleisath (drums) was neither vegan nor vegetarian.
Damien Moyal (vocals) was vegan.
Dave Silber (bass guitar) was not vegan, but was vegetarian.
What is more important to Shai Hulud, music or message?
Both music and message have an equally strong relevance for Shai Hulud. When we started, writing and playing beautiful, yet aggressive music was our only purpose; there was no message get across. The primary focus was to produce passionate and clever music. While writing the lyrics for our debut EP, A Profound Hatred of Man, we realized music was not our only passion. Message also had a serious significance. Coupled with our music, message also became a strong and defining characteristic of the band. Today, our music and message go hand in hand. When writing new material, neither can be sacrificed as we feel we have a lot to express through chords and words. It can be said, Shai Hulud gives equal importance to the music and the message of its original material.
As far as what is more important to the individual members when it comes to other artists' material, we obviously appreciate both, however, the members of Shai Hulud got involved and were brought together by our love and passion for music. Whereas a relevant, urgent, and enlightening message is always refreshing, it isn't a necessity for us to appreciate a band, for sometimes that just isn't the point (i.e., The Misfits, The Dead Milkmen, Shadowy Men on a Shadowy Planet, Bolt Thrower, etc.). Providing the message is not one of complete and total ignorance, the music supersedes all.
How long does it take Shai Hulud to write a song?
We cannot accurately answer that question because each song varies considerably. For example, the rhythm guitars and basic structure for the songs, My Heart Bleeds the Darkest Blood (a song featured on our debut full length, Hearts Once Nourished With Hope and Compassion) and, Given Flight by Demons Wings, (a song featured on our second full length album, That Within Blood Ill-tempered) were written in one night - the latter, in only a couple of hours in fact - while the song, Set Your Body Ablaze (a song featured on the split EP, A Whole New Level of Sickness) was structured and restructured in the span of over a year. A song is written, and if it works, it is kept as is, if for some reason it doesn't flow as it should - which is usually the case - it is rewritten until it does. There is no strict formula that is followed. Sometimes, as many other artists have said, the song writes itself, meaning everything comes naturally and the finished product simply works. More often than not, the song is written, torn apart and restructured many, many times, and after a lot of brain-racking and a good amount of time, the finished product finally materializes. We try hard to never rush a song, especially if it isn't coming to us naturally.
What is Shai Hulud's connection with Strongarm?
Aside from both bands being big fans of each other, and the obvious impact said bands have had on the other's writing style, at one time Strongarm and Shai Hulud shared drummer, Steve Kleisath. In addition, the similar sound of both bands was a product of two friends playing together for an extended time. The members of Strongarm and Shai Hulud have known each other for many years. Strongarm's Josh Colbert (guitar) and Shai Hulud's Matt Fox (guitar) have been pals for over10 years now. Josh and Matt first played together in a Hardcore / Punk band called, Planet X (circa 1991). Having always appreciated the other's writing and playing ability, they were constantly learning from, and teaching each other. One day, it dawned on them that Hardcore didn't always have to be played with power chords. From there, they experimented with different chord arrangements and melody, and together, developed a sound that evolved into the signature sounds of Strongarm and Shai Hulud.
What influences Shai Hulud to write music and lyrics?
Almost anything can be influential or inspirational, it isn't always a song, lyric, or poem by another band or artist. We are a passionate bunch of chaps and a lot of our material is a product of anything that provokes us to feel an array of different emotions. Sources of inspiration and / or influence in the past have been, but of course not limited to, pleasant or unsettling observations and experiences, various relationships, poems, people, and even books and movies. Here are a few examples of what, outside of music, inspired and / or influenced the creation of particular pieces of music and lyrics:
-The opening guitar riff in, My Heart Bleeds the Darkest Blood (found on Hearts Once With Hope and Compassion), materialized after having heard news of former guitar player, Oliver Chapoy's mother passing away. The tune was a direct result of the sadness everyone felt due to the situation. Obviously, the lyrics that are now known as My Heart... have nothing to do with the unfortunate event, only the opening tune was a product of the tragedy.
-The brutal and interesting rhythm in the beginning of, The Bonds of Those Who Have No Understanding of Consequence (found on the Indecision split, The Fall of Every Man), spawned from the pure anger and frustration of having to work a crappy overnight job to make ends meet. The idea of the rhythm had never been discussed, or thought of prior to the overwhelming feelings that created the pattern out of blue.
-In the song, If Born From This Soil (found on the A Profound Hatred of Man EP), the lyric, "A likeness only in structure, not in mind" came into mind when an impatient, drunk man spoke for Matt Fox (guitar), while waiting in a long line at a gas station. The intoxicated man said to the cashier while gesturing to himself and Matt, "We just want a beer." After those words were spoken, said lyric just popped into Matt's head.
-Most of the lyrics in the song, Love is the Fall of Every Man (found on the Indecision split, The Fall of Every Man) spawned directly from persevering, after the ending of a romantic relationship. In this
particular relationship, the party that does not play in Shai Hulud, assumed the party that does play in Shai Hulud would be shattered and broken because of the break up. Whereas the latter party was upset by the separation, the former party's assumption was so arrogant that any sentimental feelings that remained dissipated and were replaced with inner strength, instantaneously. The lyrics to Love... voice the thoughts and feelings, that went through the mind and heart of Shai Hulud's member, almost verbatim.
There are many more occasions of music and lyrics stemming from isolated instances rather than other artists' work - far too many to mention, in fact. As far as other artists' work making an impact on the members of Shai Hulud, below you will find a brief overview of bands or artist's that inspired us to pick up a guitar or pen:
Matt Fletcher (bass):
Suicidal Tendencies
Faith No More
Journey
Matt Fox (guitar):
Metallica
Paul Simon
Strongarm / Further Seems Forever / Josh Colbert / Steve Kleisath
Tony Tintari (drums):
Sick Of It All
Metallica
His Great Uncle and Grandfather
Geert Van der Velde (vocals):
Strongarm
Radiohead
Meshuggah
How does Shai Hulud come up with its material?
There is no concrete method we use in which to write our material. As it was stated in an earlier answer, sometimes it comes naturally, sometimes there is a source of inspiration, and a lot of the time, we
have to think and work hard to produce material. When working and thinking, we simply experiment until we find something we can latch on to. At that point, we expand and add to the piece until it blossoms into what we will finally commit to a song. When we write, we always see how far we can take something, unless we feel it is perfect as soon as it materializes which is hardly ever the case. If a piece of music or text can be taken to the next level, we take it there. The true test is knowing when and if something can, and should be expanded upon. We always make sure we aren't pointlessly getting carried away with "creativity" just for the sake of being "creative" or "different." Every section must have a solid purpose. The question of "How did you think of that!?" is age-old, and unfortunately, to the best of our knowledge, there is no finite answer. If there were, we ourselves would be writing thousands of people asking the same question (we do already). Art is beautiful, isn't it?
How did Shai Hulud get signed to Revelation?
Both Matt Fox (guitar) and Oliver Chapoy worked at Uncle Sam's Music - a record store in sunny Pompano Beach, Florida - and Matt would speak to Revelation Records just about every day for ordering purposes. Matt became friendly with the girl who was working in the mail-order department at the time, Jeanne Probart (where are you Jeanne!?!) and more often than not, they discussed everything but what they were both being paid to discuss. When it was Matt's turn to answer the question "What are you doing after work?" he responded with "My band is recording tonight," to which Jeanne excitedly added "When it's finished, send a copy to me. I'll see what I can do." Jeanne passed the tape on Revelation's owner, Jordan Cooper, and Rob Moran, who was heading the revamping of Revelation's imprint label, Crisis Records. Both Jordan and Rob loved the demo, and Rob felt Shai Hulud was the perfect addition to the new and improved Crisis (although he didn't like the song Hardly), which at the time was also a home to, soon to be buddies, Beta Minus Mechanic (members went on to Another Victim and Earth Crisis) and California's sonic powerhouse, Will Haven. A contract was sent out, but before any signing took place, Hulud and Damien parted ways. Rob needed to hear a new singer before the deal went through. After what seemed like months, Chad Gilbert was initiated into the band, a four-track recording with his voice was sent to Rob, and the deal was back on (this time, Rob even liked Hardly). The rest, as they say, is history.
Thanks Jeanne!!
Would Shai Hulud ever sign to a major label?
Absolutely. We would most certainly sign to a major label providing we were allowed to keep our artistic freedom. It is essential that Shai Hulud, in regard to its original material, answers only to Shai Hulud.
If signing to a major label meant relinquishing that autonomy, we would not sign. We will not compromise our integrity to sell more records, however, if the label accepted and embraced us for what we said and played, and the deal was beneficial and constructive to Shai Hulud's longevity, we would sign in one heartbeat. Just one. It would be a dream come true to have our music and message made readily available to any and all that wished to hear it. Our primary goal is to write and play our music, just beneath that, we aim to make it our lives and give the known universe the opportunity to listen.
What happened to the older members of Shai Hulud and what are they doing now?
All members are terminated upon departure. Actually, they went on with their lives. Regarding specific reasons why former members are no longer a part of The Hulud Rock Monster, that is all subject to selective memory; everyone remembers stories as they perceived them. Impartially speaking, it can be said there were conflicts of interest, and as it is with many bands, conflicts of personality. Everyone is to blame. Everyone is guilty and everyone is innocent. Most important of all, everyone is civil and on speaking terms. Below is what we know of former band members' current whereabouts and activities as of April, year 2003.
Oliver Chapoy (guitar) AKA The Sensitive Pimp is now living in Brooklyn, NY after having spent some time in CA, Chicago, and Spain. Musically, he has been playing around with Shai Huluds very first, however brief, drummer, Jason The Lion Lederman, once of Where Fear and Weapons Meet.
Chadwick Gilbert 81 (vocals) AKA Peloquin, plays guitar and writes songs for, New Found Glory, a pop punk band poised to claim their respective genre for themselves. They are signed to MCA Records, incase you didn't know. He tours constantly, resides in CA, and is still straight edge - but not nearly as straight as Matt Fox. (Old joke...)
Steven Lee Kleisath (drums) AKA Bizarro, still rocks with his Strongarm accomplices in South Florida's noteworthy rock outfit, Further Seems Forever. FSF is signed to Tooth and Nail Records and released their debut album, The Moon is Down, in March of 2001. FSFs second album, How to Start a Fire, was released in 2003. He was married in 1999 and happily lives with his wife, Emily Deanne Kleisath in Cleveland Tennessee. And the bang? (Another old joke...)
Damien Moyal (vocals) AKA Damien Decline has played in many popular bands since Shai Hulud. He sang for Morning Again and Culture, and also sang in the well-loved Hardcore / Punk band, As Friends Rust. Damien also wrote liner notes for Shai Huluds retrospective CD, A Life in Chapters.
David Silber (bass guitar) AKA The Dane is living in South Florida and may be relocating to the Northeast to pursue various interests. The last we heard, he was working and studying full time. When we saw Dave last, he was with Strongarm at Furnace Fest 2000 in Alabama for their reunion show. He had positive feedback regarding Hulud's changes. That was appreciated. He was wearing glasses...
Have the members of Shai Hulud been in any other bands?
Yes. Below is a brief list of the classic rock outfits we were a part
of before we joined Shai Hulud.
Matt Fletcher (bass):
-Electric Ass - Fletcher played guitar and yacked back-up vocals. Electric Ass "recorded" one practice session, and from that session 4 songs were (again) "recorded" on 2 tapes, and those tapes only had two songs each. They were thrown to the audience at Ray Clemen's birthday bash. The Ass also recorded a demo before Fletcher joined the band. Some Ass favorites: Stinky C, Crazy Boy, Thursa, Knave, Kill'em All (not the Metallica song, however the lyrics were "rape'em, maim'em, shoot'em, napkins for everyone!") and Ass Rock. EA never recorded that good demo they were planning to call "We've Rectum All". Catchy, eh kids? Best line from a song: "Stinky C don't wash his hair, it's been 10 years since he's changed underwear". Best performances: Both shows at Ray Clemen's house, and Lance Gilstrap's birthday that he DIDN'T want them to play.
-The Rat Bastards - Fletcher played guitar. Rat Bastards was formed out of the ashes of the legendary Ass. Greatest hits: Jaime Farr, Rat Bastards, Hamster Wheel (what's with the rodent thing?), and Hands in the Air. Best line from a song: "you can't stop the GI Jeremy, while alley cats fuck on my front lawn" from Jaime Farr. Best performances: Norman High School battle of the bands, and Big Matt's party, which got him kicked out of his house. One practice session for the Bastards was recorded, a few of those songs are in the possession of John Dycus.
-Sir Hyper-rape and the Pillage Boys - Fletcher played guitar. This band also featured Shai Hulud's roadie, Caliboss Stewart as Sir Hyper-rape. Greatest hits: Industrial Cowboys, and that song Ice-t sings in Electric Boogaloo. Best performance: Dragonseed Chan's party (their only show). Caliboss was so nervous because Sally Sibiski was there, and he ran off stage during the first song and hid under a table. They did throw out a piece of cardboard (called the pillage zone) for the audience to break dance on, while grooving to their techno-rock beats. Dragonseed was the dj for the pillageboys (well, he literally Scratched records on an old turntable, and played samples from Young Guns).
Matt Fox (guitar):
-The One-eyed Kings (circa 1995) - Rock and Roll - Matt played the bass guitar. The Kings released one seven-inch record titled, Well Wot is Your Most Favorite Tune, on Florida based record label, Far Out Records before Matt joined the band.
-Bingo Mut (circa 1993/94) - Ska Punk - Matt played the drums. The Mut released one seven inch titled, The Meanest Man EP, on Far Out Records and recorded for another one that was never released. It featured the modern Hardcore classic, One Crotch.
-The Murrychesstoes (circa 1991/92) - Hardcore / Punk - Matt played the drums, then eventually, guitar. The Fabulous Murrychesstoes recorded two demos that were released only in limited quantity.
Tony Tintari (drums):
-A.Y.A. (1994-1997) Pop Punk- Tony played the drums. A.Y.A. released two split seven inches with Johnny One Note and The Rodmans on various labels. They also released a seven inch titled, A.Y.A. Gets Phat and Stoopid which came out on Chicagos own Underdog Records.
-The Laxatives (1995-1997) Pop Punk- Tony played drums. The Laxatives recorded a demo and pissed a whole bunch of people off with such hits as: Natalie Picks Her Nose, and Brenda is a Blond.
-In Truth (1997-1999) Hardcore Tony played the drums. In Truth recorded a demo and had a song released on the latest Only the Strong compilation from Victory Records. They enjoyed long walks on the beach, listening to Metallica, and they started an R & B side project called Silk Sheets. New Silk Sheets single A.T.M coming to a store near you soon!
-Rise Against (1999-2000) melodic Hardcore- Tony played the drums. Rise Against continues to rock you and Tony recorded the demo for these dudes.
-The Enemy (2000-2001) Hardcore- Tony played the drums. The Enemy recorded a demo, and has half of a record sitting in Lawerence, Kansas waiting to be finished for Dave Mandel, the nicest record label owner you will ever meet.
Geert van der Velde (vocals):
-Redefine (end of summer 1997) - one bass player short of being vegetarian/vegan straight edge metalcore - Geert played the guitar. Redefine was started while Geert was still in the U.S. finishing his senior high school year (again) as an exchange student. As soon as he got back the Redefine boys drafted him into their ranks to soon thereafter record a demo. There were about 150 sold (130 or so by the band themselves and around 20 by some kid in Belgium who liked the band enough to make his own demo tapes but forgot to ask Redefine).
-Through a Glass Darkly (end of summer 1998) - Hardcore - Geert played the guitar. TAGD was formed right after Redefine's break-up. Geert and his best friend Menno (drummer for Redefine as well) recruited 3 new guys. One song was written before Geert joined Shai Hulud where after TAGD renamed themselves Puritan and broke up recently because all the boys are in college.
What kind of equipment does Shai Hulud use?
To be quite honest with you: whatever we can get our hands on. Thus far, we have not used any equipment worth mentioning. When we finally get decent equipment we are happy with, we will post an equipment list on the personnel page. Do not look for that list anytime soon; we haven't any money to be buying equipment with, unfortunately.
Who is Clark Griswold?
The infamous Clark Griswold, who was credited with being a member of Shai Hulud on the A Whole New Level of Sickness split EP, is a character from the National Lampoon movies, played by Chevy Chase. Clark Griswold is notorious for being involved in outrageous situations caused by his perpetual hard luck; we can relate. Oh, can we relate. Therefore, Clark Griswold has been knighted an honorary member of Shai Hulud and rejoins the band whenever we need a fill in. We have proudly dubbed ourselves: The Griswolds of Hardcore. The park's closed, the moose should have told you at the gate.
What does Shai Hulud think about New Found Glory?
We love them. There are no hard feelings between Shai Hulud and New Found Glory. The members of both bands get along very well and promote each other's music wholeheartedly. NFG has worked exceptionally hard to get where they are and we feel they deserve everything they have. We wish them nothing but success.
What is Zombie Apocalypse?
There is no more room in hell. The dead are walking the earth. Prepare for the forthcoming apocalypse: Zombie Apocalypse is the first Shai Hulud side project to come to fruition. Zombie Apocalypse features all the members of Shai Hulud, plus our dear friend, Ronen Kaufman (former frontman of New Jersey's, Try. Fail. Try.), who assumes vocal duties. Zombie Apocalypse plays a clever blend of abrasive, melodic, and brutally fast Punk / Hardcore comparable to Shai Hulud, only faster, and much shorter. The average Zombie Apocalypse song is under a minute long, but it is not grindcore. Not by a longshot. Fans and non-fans of Shai Hulud will certainly be pleased. Zombie Apocalypse's debut CDEP, This is a Spark of Life, will be released in 2003 on Indecision Records.
What is Boddicker?
Boddicker was the first Shai Hulud project band supposed to come to fruition. Boddicker also plays fast and abrasive Punk / Hardcore, However, melody was spared for chaos. Boddicker recorded a 2 song demo in 1998 that was never released. There are no plans for Boddicker to resurface, as the two songs Boddicker had are now Zombie Apocalypse songs. We may release the already recorded Boddicker demo, not because its good, but mainly because we had a killer logo. Dont look for it anytime within the next ten years.
What is Ides of March?
Ides of March was a record label started by Matt Fox (guitar) of Shai Hulud. The label was started to release Shai Hulud related projects, but it ended up releasing other bands' music as well. Ides of March has changed its name to At Dawn We Wage War and will be releasing the Hulud related projects it originally intended on releasing.
Who is Shai Hulud's favorite band to play / tour with?
We have never met a band we disliked playing with, however, there are certain bands we are always delighted to see and share a stage with.
Keep in mind; this list could go on forever. If your band, your friend's band, or a band you love, is not listed here, please do not take offense. These are just a few bands, out of the hundreds, whose music and members we love. Playing with the following bands always means, great shows, great conversations, comfortable atmospheres, and sometimes, a good game of chess:
Bane - Who doesn't love Bane? Playing with Bane is always much more than a pleasure. The maddest props.
Cipher - A band from NY that we made good friends with in 2000. Fun and friendly guys. We are always excited to rock with Cipher.
Engrave - We met Engrave in Europe in 1999. Great and hilarious guys. Some of our fondest tour memories are with Engrave. See you guys soon!!
Glassjaw - An awesome band with awesome members. We have been good pals for a while now, even before they were huge.
The Hope Conspiracy - Always a pleasure. Fun to watch, and great to spend time with. And Jonas is so cute it's sickening.
Indecision / Most Precious Blood - Our best buddies from practically the beginning. The Indecision / MPB collective will always have the most precious place in Shai Hulud's black heart.
Madcap These fun loving street punk rockers are not only a great band; they are also a great bunch of pleasant chaps. The time we spend with Madcap is always fun and rewarding.
Poison the Well - Our pals from South Florida. Whether we are singing their songs, or songs from Little Shop of Horrors, we are always singing when it comes to Poison the Well.
Sick Of It All Hands down the best Hardcore band of all time. No question about it. We had the pleasure of sharing the stage with SOIA many times during 2001 /2002. It was a fantastic experience and we were grateful to have accompanied them as much as we did.
Stretch Armstrong - Another band that has practically been there from the beginning. Some of the sweetest and most sincere guys ever. Always smiling even when things look grim. Truly inspirational.
Why use samples, and where do the samples you have used come from?
A sample is a great way to strengthen an important thought or point. We feel a sample gives a song even more relevance - almost as if someone is directly concurring with the song's sentiment. An appropriate and cleverly placed sample can texture, and increase the drama and emotion of, a song. Plus, we like movies too... Samples are always chosen by how well they relate to a song's lyrics and atmosphere. Below is a list of our songs that use samples, the sample used, the person that spoke the sample, and where the sample was found.
A Profound Hatred of Man EP:
-If Born From This Soil - "Hell exists on Earth? Yes, I wont live in it." - Al Pacino - Glengarry Glen Ross (film 1992)
Hears Once Nourished With Hope and Compassion LP:
-My Heart Bleeds the Darkest Blood - Bill Murray - "It's gonna be cold. It's gonna be gray. And it's gonna last you for the rest of your life."
- Groundhog Day (film 1993)
-Sample that closes the record - Sigourney Weaver - " This is Lieutenant Ripley, last survivor of the Nostromo, signing off." - Alien (film 1979)
The Fall of Every Man EP:
-The Bonds of Those... - Kurt Russell - "Trust is a tough thing to come by these days." -The Thing (film 1982)
A Whole New Level of Sickness EP:
-Set Your Body Ablaze - Siān Phillips -"Heat, upon heat, upon heat." - Dune (film 1984)
That Within Blood Ill-tempered LP:
-Scornful of the Motives and Virtue of Others explosions (sound) Clash of the Titans (film 1981)
-The Consummate Dragon Maurice Evans Beware the beast-man for he is the devils pawn. He kills for sport or lust or greed. Planet of the Apes (film 1968)
-The Consummate Dragon Fire / Flame (sound) Dragonslayer (film 1981)
-Two and Twenty Misfortunes Jack Lemmon The human race. The deterioration of the spirit of man. Man undermining himself, causing a self-willed, self-imposed, self-evident, self-destruction. The Prisoner of Second Avenue (film 1975)
-This Song: For the True and Passionate Lovers of Music Kirk Douglas Theres a time for fighting, and theres a time for singing. Now you teach us to sing. Spartacus (film 1960)
-Ending the Perpetual Tragedy MC5 manager Brothers and sisters, the time has come for each and every one of you to decide whether you are gonna be the problem, or whether you are gonna be the solution. MC5 live show (documented on many formats)
What exactly is the industrial version of, If Born From This Soil, found on Hearts Once Nourished...?
The techno / industrial version of If Born..., appropriately titled, If Born From This Soil: Treatments for the Infected Foetus Mix, was arranged by our friend John Wright and his project, Minor Procedure. John stopped by the studio when we were recording the, A Profound Hatred of Man EP, and, If Born... made quite an impression on him. He loved the song and shared with us his desire to remix it. We were flattered and very interested in hearing what he would do. When the song was complete, we sent it off to Revelation Records to have it added to the upcoming, Hearts Once Nourished With Hope and Compassion, because we felt it was a great addition to the album. This remix is only available on the CD format.
Who is singing at the end of Hearts Once Nourished... and what is the song?
Original guitar player, Oliver Chapoy, former vocalist, Chad Gilbert 81, and Matt Fox (guitar) donated their sweet and angelic voices to the acappella track at the end of Hearts Once... We aren't exactly sure of the song's title, but it can be heard in the movie, Jaws, when Richard Dreyfuss, Roy Scheider, and Robert Shaw are drunkenly singing in the boat. Our version was recorded and included for fun, and out of sheer goofiness. Chad Gilbert 81 is the one that gets a little saucy in the middle of the song, and Matt Fox's (guitar) is the voice that says, "Assuck rules." Just so you know, Steve "Warlord" Heritage, former frontman and guitarist of Assuck, recorded Hearts Once Nourished... As we were finishing our magnificent version of the Jaws song, Steve Warlord looked at us while shaking his head back and forth - as if implying our rendition was disgustingly immoral - and this prompted Matt to comment on Assuck's ruling status.
Who does Shai Hulud's artwork?
All the artwork for our releases was donated by different artists. The cover art for the, A Profound Hatred of Man EP, was created by long time friend, Nick Dominguez (Strongarm, Further Seems Forever), and the logo was a font Matt Fox (guitar) administered. The inside artwork was a painting by another long time friend, rabbit grrl, Autumn Horne and the back photography was taken by Dave Mandel (Indecision Records) during his stint at Revelation. Incidentally, the pictures on the back are of original bass player, Dave Silber's, windup death toy.
The artwork for, Hearts Once Nourished With Hope and Compassion, are photographs taken by Dustin Moore (We aren't sure who he is, sorry Dustin). The concept was the brainchild of Matt Fox and our friends, Alexis Neptune and Autumn Horne. The photographs were based on actual artwork respectively created by Alexis and Autumn. The teeth images were lovingly donated by Revelation's at the time layout guy, The Gerixxx. Yes, those are his actual teeth.
The cover image on our split with Indecision, The Fall of Every Man, is artist, Justin Borucki's (contributing artist for Indecision, Sons of Abraham, Milhouse, etc...), interpretation of the releases title, and for our split with Another Victim, A Whole New Level of Sickness, Trustkill Records utilized artwork graciously donated by friend, Matt Dorfman.
The art on That Within Blood Ill-tempered was created by Chandler Owen of Towardthesky design. The concepts stem from the lyrics on TWBI. The layout was handled by Chandler, and Tom Kline, Revelation Records art director, under the direction of Matt Fox (guitar) and Shai Hulud.
Why in hell did Shai Hulud relocate to Poughkeepsie, NY of all places?
We get this one a lot. First, we moved up north simply because it is much easier for a band to thrive here; shows are more plentiful; there are many more accessible cities to play, etc. Second, we were in need of a drummer, and as any one that plays in a band can tell you, drummers are hard to come by, especially, when you are as demanding of a drummer as we are. We found a drummer that lived, guess where? Bingo! Poughkeepsie, NY, hence our inhabitancy here. We feel it is best for us, at this time, to be up north. We live in a decent and affordable house in Pough-town. We like the area, and most importantly, there are an abundance of musicians here, just in case the occasion of needing a full time member or fill in arises.
Who were the people that passed away, mentioned on the, A Profound Hatred of Man EP?
Lucila G. Chapoy was the mother of original guitar player, Oliver Chapoy. Dinorah Morgan was original bass player, Dave Silber's good friend's mother, and Paul Oetting was Matt Fox's (guitar) dear friend's brother. All three people were special to respective members of Shai Hulud. The way the departed ones led their lives - with love, care, and respect for others - was an inspiration to everyone that knew, or came in contact with them. May they rest in peace.
How can I get a copy of Shai Hulud's original demo?
As of right now, the demo is unavailable, however, it will be released as a double CD in 2003 (hopefully) on At Dawn We Wage War, with warehouse sessions, unreleased live tracks, possibly an enhanced portion, and detailed liner notes. The CD is tentatively titled, Shai Hulud: A Life in Chapters.
How long has Shai Hulud been a band and how did the band form?
A history of band is being written, and should up on this site soon. Hold breath at your own risk.
Why didn't Shai Hulud change their name after the member changes?
That is a great question. We seriously considered changing the name of the band, but after hours of pondering, decided against it. First, we all love the name, Shai Hulud. Second, we didn't want to stop playing the Shai Hulud songs. Third, the new material we were writing was Shai Hulud's music. Either way, by changing or keeping the name, we would have received severe criticism. Had we changed the name, we speculated it would have been said, we were trying to copy the style Shai Hulud had established for themselves. You can never win, therefore, we decided to do what we wanted, and not labor over what would please the metalcore community. Had we decided Shai Hulud, with its new lineup, would adopt a new sound, the name would have been changed. The sound was being maintained, as original member and primary songwriter Matt Fox (guitar) continued to write music. In addition, newer members Matt Fletcher (guitar), and Geert Van der Velde (vocals), were also contributing music that fit perfectly with Shai Hulud's signature sound. That Within Blood Ill-tempered, would have been written and released regardless of the lineup Shai Hulud was working with. "Life always finds a way." Please note, Shai Hulud will always continue until every member decides to move on simultaneously. If the lineup changes 1000 times more, but 1 member remains and wishes to continue, he / she will do so. Life is too short to not live your passion. No one's happiness should ever be subject to another's will. Follow your own path. Should someone throw in the towel because the others he / she was working with decided to move on? You have got to be kidding...
What does Shai Hulud tune to?
Everything Shai Hulud has recorded up until That Within Blood Ill-tempered has been in E, baby. Shortly before recording TWBI we made the decision to drop a half step. We now tune to E flat. TWBI was recorded in E flat.
Will Shai Hulud ever change its sound, musically or vocally?
Like it says in the answer above, anything is possible. Each release, Shai Hulud always expands its parameters reasonably. For example, with the upcoming, That Within Blood Ill-tempered, we are for the first time experimenting with different guitar sounds. Although we cannot predict the future, we can say, with certainty, we will always write and record what we feel a piece of music requires. If a song calls for a... banjo, perhaps... we will utilize a banjo. We are always looking to progress, within reason of course, so anything is truly possible, however, I wouldn't count on hearing a Shai Hulud song with a banjo track anytime soon.
Who are the people screaming at the end of the, A Whole New Level of Sickness EP, and what are they screaming?
The people screaming "burn" at the end of the, A Whole New Level of Sickness EP, are: Matt Fletcher (guitar), Matt Fox (guitar), Geert Van der Velde (vocals), Chris Hornbrook (Poison the Well - drums), Alan the Well (Until the End - vocals), and Kenn Marshall (Destro - vocals). The aforementioned people were gathered in the studio to provide various backup vocals. Some people got a little carried away, right Alan? Some of the backup vocals were used in the song, the rest were so funny we just had to include them at the end for humor's sake. As you may have guessed, Alan the Well provided the vulture squeals at the end. Matt Fox (guitar) is the guy that laughs while screaming, and Matt Fletcher (guitar) is the owner of the monotone zombie voice. Everyone else sounded pretty good. The backup session was a lot of fun. The extra vocals were featured at the end just to document the fun bonding session. Mad props to everyone involved.
Does Shai Hulud really have a profound hatred and feel that love is the fall of every man?
This is truly a frequently asked question. I'm afraid the answer isn't a simple yes or no. Allow us to explain... Before we begin, it needs to be stated that our lyrics have consistently been misinterpreted since day one (not by all, thankfully). It is a shame how a grand vision is slighted for snap judgments based on a general overview or a hasty glance. Do not allow your preconceived notions of the song and release titles to convince you into believing untruths about us. Feel free to take our lyrics and personalize them so they relate to you specifically, but do not apply a position to us we vehemently stand against. If you find a specific lyric's meaning precarious and would like some clarification, feel free to write us, or heck, talk to us in person. We will always try to help as much as we possibly can. Thank you, friends.
The members of Shai Hulud, generally speaking, do not hate mankind or feel love is the fall of anyone. We are pleasant and friendly folk, who express their strong discontent for man and his actions through aggressive music and harsh words. At times, we - and many others - feel overwhelmed by, in brief, the overall carelessness exhibited by people towards themselves, others, and our environment. Our lyrics illustrate this frustration. Let this brief explanation clarify our position: We do not, nor have we ever, promoted a lack of love, or a random or wanton hatred of man - it's quite the contrary, in fact. With our music and lyrics we aim to pave a way to enlightenment. That is our goal, whether or not a listener chooses to acknowledge this truth is unfortunately out of our control. The veracity of our words is there for anyone that wishes to recognize it; we can only justify ourselves so much. Regarding the caustic titles and lyrics, understand, when writing, emotions are amplified tenfold. The power of a pen is certainly a force to be reckoned with. Coupled with a flair for the dramatic, it takes your strength and multiplies it by a hundred; it takes your despair and negative feelings and breathes a life into them that clearly crosses the line between disapproval and condemnation.
Yes, initially there are severe feelings of cynicism. At some point, one or more members of Shai Hulud, sincerely felt a hatred for man. Does this mean any of us are malevolent, nasty and crotchety, card-carrying misanthropists? It doesn't. Shai Hulud concentrates the need for betterment into its lyrics. There will most likely never be a Shai Hulud song that only focuses on how harmonious and wonderful everything is - at least, not without mentioning how most people, either refuse to perpetuate harmony, or are too ignorant or unable to comprehend what is honestly important and essential to obtaining such peace. We didn't create man's weakness, we just comment on it. Send complaints concerning the weakness of man to: Jesus Christ, KRSNA, Yahweh Ben Yahweh, Buddha, Haley's Comet, Bruce Springstein or, The Big Bang.
Will Shai Hulud ever post tabs on the website?
HA! I'd like to see YOU try to transcribe this stuff!
Where does Shai Hulud buy their spatulas?
Spatula City! Spatula City! Spatula City!
Will Shai Hulud play my Bar Mitzvah?
Absolutely... or your divorce hearing, Jacuzzi installation, lobotomy, etc., we can meet the needs of any special occasion. Shai Hulud is an all purpose unit of mosh.
How many members of Shai Hulud does it take to change a light bulb?
25. In about 10 more members (give or take a few), we will finally be able to change that light bulb that has been out since 1995. Shouldn't be too much longer...
Why do birds suddenly appear every time you are near?
Just like me, they long to be close to you.
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