Big Dismal, a band that had been inactive for nearly 20 years, has recently reunited and released new music. Their comeback song, "Fly Again," gained significant momentum, leading to more studio sessions. The band emphasizes creative freedom and authenticity in their new work, contrasting with past label constraints.
Their latest single, "Stay in the Fight," addresses mental health issues and is an encouraging anthem that has achieved notable success in Christian rock radio. The coming "Here in My Heart" is a powerful ballad with a unique musical influence. The band is also preparing for potential touring. I loved talking to Chuck and Eric about the band's history and current state, including their recent releases.
It's been almost 20 years since Big Dismal has released music. I'm sure a lot led up to this reunion. Please share the story behind getting back together and making new music again.
Eric and I have always talked about it. We've been waiting for the right time, which was hard. Sometimes, I wanted the timing earlier than it came. We first did "Fly Again" and then tried to follow the momentum it started for us. Ultimately, Chuck sent me some tracks for songs he was writing, and then I laid the vocals. For me, singing and writing lyrics come naturally just from hearing the music; it's a gift that reminds me that my talents are from heaven.
What are some significant changes in the songwriting process that differ from the early 2000s to now?
Our lives have significantly changed with families, locations, and more. The most important thing for us has always been the songs. As mentioned, the structure is still similar, with me writing some music and Eric primarily working on the lyrics. But it's different than using the old beepers back in the day. Technology can help a lot.
Sure, you'll hear a difference in production value, as it's just us now. We don't have the big fancy studios. But we've worked hard on this, and it's as accurate as it will ever be in our own hands. We don't have to pay the studios just to be heard. You have to tour nowadays, and I hope we get to.
Another big difference is the need for label managers. As grateful as we are for the past work with Wind Up Records, it's much more freeing to be independent. We can write how we want without people telling us we must try or do certain things. That's been a massive difference for us. In the end, whether 20 years ago or now, our goal is to have music with a positive, hopeful message that means something to the listeners.
How have your songwriting careers and projects during the time apart influenced the band's new songwriting process?
Not really, honestly. It's been encouraging to hear from fans of our solo stuff because they all told us this is where we're meant to be when they listened to the new Big Dismal stuff. It feels natural to be back, like returning to our first love.
Your newest single, "Stay In The Fight," has impacted Christian rock radio. Congratulations on that. Could you tell me about that song?
"Stay In The Fight" is very personal to me. It's about my son's mental health struggles. I recall Chuck sending me the music for this track, and I felt the emotion and the music. I weighed behind and knew something like this had to be there. The lyrics are pretty surface-level, to be honest, but they need to be simple and loud. It's encouraging the listeners to live another day, not to give up. Mental health in this country is an epidemic that is not talked about enough. Even though I don't specifically address it, it is where the song's heart comes from.
Your next single is released on November 15. Can you share about that song?
Yeah. This one is called "Here In My Heart." It's going to be one of our favorites. I can tell already. We've always loved the power ballads. The powerhouse choruses and slowed down tempos. In this song, in particular, I leaned into some Led Zeppelin influences and some changes in guitar stuff. When Eric sent the vocals back, I had tears in my eyes. I still get emotional, even as we watch the music video that will accompany it. I can't wait to hear and see fans dig into the emotions of this one.
Your website mentions a 20th-anniversary tour. What can fans expect from that?
At this point, it would be closer to the 25th if we're lucky. We would love to go back on tour, whether with other returning bands like Pillar or something. Or we'll get to play some summer festivals. But not current plans, as many moving parts are involved, and we can only get up and go if we wish.
What's next for Big Dismal?
We recently partnered with NewReleaseToday's NRT Music label, which is exciting. That new single is coming soon, and another one or two are planned. Some of the new songs in the future will even be reworked music from our earlier days that never saw the light of day.
How can we be praying for you?
We want to create more opportunities for our music to reach people and resonate with them. It's about the songs making a difference. Please pray for that. And please pray for health and that we can travel in due time for the band.
Ryan Adams lives in Las Vegas with his family and spoiled rotten dog. He is an avid supporter of the Christian rock and metal scenes.
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