Interview Reveals the Inspiration Behind Death Knocks, HOAXED’s New Record – Metal Injection
Portland-based dark rock band Hoaxed is gearing up to release their upcoming record Death Knocks on February 13. The trio recorded Death Knocks at Falcon Recording Studios with producer and engineer Gabe Johnston and enlisted Arthur Rizk to handle the mixing and mastering. Speaking about the inspiration behind the album, the band delves into various intriguing themes and stories.
One of the tracks on Death Knocks, “The Killing Stone”, draws inspiration from the legend of Tamamo-no-Mae, a nine-tailed fox who was notorious for infiltrating multiple courts using her intelligence and charisma. Captured in a boulder for 900 years, her spirit is said to have been released recently, sparking speculation about her return and seeking revenge. Hoaxed explores the dichotomy of powerful women being vilified and punished in “The Killing Stone”, reflecting on whether she was truly evil or simply ambitious.
Another track on the album, “Kill Switch”, was inspired by the character Furiosa from the Mad Max series. Furiosa, known for her strength and resilience, challenges gender stereotypes and conveys themes of control, agency, and self-worth. Hoaxed draws parallels between Furiosa’s character and the empowerment of women, highlighting the importance of representation and equality in storytelling.
The band also draws inspiration from historical accounts, such as the case of Mercy Brown, also known as “America’s Last Vampire”. Suspected of vampirism after her death in 1892, her body was exhumed and her heart removed to allegedly stop her from causing harm to her family. Hoaxed stumbled upon her burial site while on tour, an experience that left a lasting impression on them and influenced their creative process for the album.
The Death Knocks album cover art, featuring decaying mausoleums, reflects the band’s fascination with these structures and their significance in various cultures around the world. From Gothic church architecture in Europe to local cemeteries in Portland, the haunting imagery of mausoleums plays a vital role in shaping the visual representation of the album.
Certain tracks on the album, like “Looking Glass” and “Dead Ringer”, were inspired by personal experiences and objects. A haunting mirror in the band member’s basement bathroom served as the basis for the eerie track “Dead Ringer”, exploring the idea of reflections and entities beyond the glass. The band’s creative process often draws from real-life encounters and environments, adding depth and authenticity to their music.
Overall, Hoaxed’s new record Death Knocks promises to be a thought-provoking and immersive musical journey, drawing on a diverse range of inspirations from folklore, history, and personal experiences. The band’s unique storytelling and thematic depth offer listeners a glimpse into a world of mystery and intrigue, inviting them to explore the darker corners of their imagination.