Interview by Kris Peters
The global musical landscape shifted forever in 2001, with the release of Ill Nino's debut album, Revolution Revolución. It introduced the world to a fusion of metal and Latino-influenced brutality that gave birth to a new movement of metal that still exists in some form today.
It was an experimental and daring album from a group of musicians from New Jersey who decided to combine their culture with their music and introduced the world to a band who give no quarter and have remained steadfast despite well publicized internal battles.
It says much for the scope and vision of founding vocalist Dave Chavarrí, who has reassembled his dream numerous times over in search of the perfect formula. To showcase the new-look line up - and reportedly the best yet - the band are paying their first visit Down Under in eight years this September, intent on pummelling their Australian fans into musical submission.
Chavarri joined HEAVY earlier this week to fill us in on the blanks.
"Wait until you see the new band and the new line-up," he declared straight off the bat. "We're going to fucking crush Australia, man. People ain't going to be ready for this shit right now."
We ask Chavarri what has changed with Ill Nino in the eight years between visits.
"We have a new singer now," he replied. "We are going to release a new track and a new video and song next month, and it's from the new album that we're starting to record next week. The new album is fucking insane. It's the best thing that we've done since Revolution Revolución, I feel. And yeah, wait till you see the band live. We're in the best shape of our lives physically - the entire band - mentally and spiritually. We're firing all cylinders right now, and we just can't wait to come and fuck shit up."
In the full interview, Dave spoke more about the new line-up and new song, Ill Nino's live show and what makes it so brutal, bringing Adema as touring partners, and his love for Australian crowds.
He reflected on the band's evolution, influenced by his Latin music upbringing, and shared his commitment to Ill Nino despite past challenges, including member changes and conflicts. He noted recent reconciliations with former members Christian and Marcos, emphasizing a newfound positivity and supportive environment within the band. We spoke about what keeps driving him despite the setbacks, and his need to have the band and music in his life.
We touched on the new material and what direction it will take, when it might come out and more.
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