ION INDIE MAGAZINE February 2016, Volume 21 | Page 93

engage in the dreaded “day-jobs”. That’s right--we have to embarrass ourselves by
pretending to be mortal and slaving away at a normal job. Those who choose this
terrible path have limited resources for vacation time, which is another
impediment.
Scotty J: While you have a European-based label behind you, has there been any
interest on the domestic front either on your end, or have any other labels reached
out to you?
FANG: We’ve had some small amount of interest from U.S. labels, but none of them
could offer a deal that we found mutually beneficial. The only thing that a U.S. label
could offer us at this point is exposure and PR. Everything else (managing, tour
planning, music videos, website, online store), we’re able to do ourselves. The big
question is…is it worth giving up 95% of our profits from everything (merch, touring,
sales, royalties...everything) for this exposure? Unless someone can convince me
otherwise, or unless the record companies are willing to come forward with a
better offer, I’m very OK with being independent. In today’s crowdfunding economy,
there are a number of bands (ourselves included) who are doing quite well through
direct fan-to-band support. Some band is going to “crack the code” and make it to
commercial success without ever involving themselves with a major label. We’re
just waiting to see who will be the first to do so.
Scotty J: ROCK TITAN ENTERTAINMENT (my brand) has been running your Official
Music Videos on our TV channel with FilmOn.com for the last year plus now. You
guys seem to be very active in producing Official Music Videos and being diligent
about your internet based presence. How valuable have you found all of that in
terms of bringing visibility to Lords of the Trident?
FANG: Extremely valuable! Independent bands that do not have a social media
presence and who do not come out with regular content will die a quick death in
the age of instant media availability. Besides, interacting with (and getting to
know) your fans is one of the most rewarding experiences of playing in a band.
Without a doubt, social sharing, viral videos, and the like, are how bands will “break
out” going forward.
Scotty J: Any particular goals or anything on your bucket list for the New Year?
FANG: Yes! Finish writing the new album, and hopefully find a Japanese label to
take us on for the new release. We had a Japan tour for 2016 that fell through due
to label issues with the headlining band. Asian Metal and I both speak Japanese,
so we have a number of friends and fans we’d love to see on tour! Additionally, I’d
love to have our Patreon break the $250 mark. A monthly podcast seems like a lot
of fun.