ANNIHILATOR’s iconic debut album, “Alice In Hell,” released in 1989, has been recognized for its significant impact on teh heavy metal genre, particularly influencing MEGADETH‘s celebrated “Rust In Peace.” In a recent Q&A session, ANNIHILATOR guitarist Jeff Waters reflected on the album’s legacy, revealing that members of MEGADETH, including David Ellefson and Nick Menza, were inspired by “Alice In Hell” during the creation of their own classic. Waters emphasized the album’s role in shaping the sound of the Scandinavian metal scene, highlighting its enduring influence on musicians and fans alike. As ANNIHILATOR gears up for their “Alice In Hell 35” tour in Europe this October, the band’s pioneering work continues to resonate within the metal community, celebrating a legacy that has stood the test of time [1] [2].
The Lasting Legacy of ANNIHILATOR’s “Alice In Hell”: A Q&A with Jeff Waters
Time.news Editor: Jeff, “Alice In Hell” is celebrated as a cornerstone of the heavy metal genre as its release in 1989. In your recent statements, you mentioned how it influenced MEGADETH’s ”Rust In Peace.” Can you elaborate on that?
Jeff Waters (ANNIHILATOR): Absolutely! it’s truly humbling to know that our debut album resonated with such luminaries in the metal world. David Ellefson and Nick Menza, during the writing and recording for “Rust In Peace,” would frequently enough listen to “Alice In Hell.” This camaraderie among bands in the metal scene is what makes it so vibrant. We were all trying to push boundaries, and knowing we had a hand in inspiring one of MEGADETH’s classics is a point of pride for us.
Editor: That’s engaging! What specific elements of “Alice In Hell” do you think had the most significant impact on MEGADETH’s music?
Waters: The album combines technical proficiency with aggressive energy and intricate songwriting. Many in the industry recognise that “Alice In Hell” not only showcases fast riffs and melodic structures but also explores darker themes,which likely influenced MEGADETH’s approach on “rust In Peace.” It set a standard for blending technical skill with lyrical depth in thrash metal.
Editor: You also mentioned the album’s influence on the Scandinavian metal scene. Can you discuss that further?
Waters: definitely. The Scandinavian metal scene has a unique sound that merges melody with brutality, heavily influenced by bands like ANNIHILATOR. Our style, especially on “Alice In Hell,” laid a foundation for bands in that region to explore and expand this blend.it’s remarkable to see how genres evolve, and I believe our work contributed to that evolution.
Editor: As you gear up for the “Alice In Hell 35” tour in October, what are you hoping your fans take away from the live performances?
Waters: We want to celebrate the legacy of “Alice In Hell” and showcase how it has stood the test of time. Our goal is to recreate that seminal experience and allow both longtime fans and new listeners to see how the music continues to resonate. Live performances bring a different energy,and I can’t wait to share that with our audience.
editor: How do you perceive the current state of the heavy metal genre in relation to your early work?
Waters: Today’s metal scene is incredibly diverse. While some purists still hold onto classic standards, new sub-genres are emerging, blending influences from various musical backgrounds. It’s exciting to see bands experiment while referencing classic sounds like ours. This kind of innovation is crucial for the genre’s survival, and I believe “Alice In Hell” helped create room for such creativity.
Editor: Any advice for up-and-coming metal bands looking to carve out their niche in this competitive industry?
Waters: Stay true to your sound while being open to experimentation.Don’t be afraid to push boundaries and explore different lyrical and musical themes. Authenticity resonates with fans, and never underestimate the power of hard work and perseverance. Engaging with the metal community can also pave the way for growth and opportunities.
Editor: Thank you for your insights, Jeff. It’s clear that “Alice In Hell” not only shaped your band’s trajectory but also left a lasting mark on the heavy metal genre as a whole.
Waters: Thanks for having me! It’s always a pleasure to discuss the music and the legacy we’ve built together with our fans and fellow musicians. Here’s to continuing that journey!