James Malone (ARSIS), starve for the devil…

(by Mike Riddick)

“Starve for the Devil,” is the recently announced title for ARSIS’ 2010 follow-up to “We are the Nightmare.” We exchanged some questions and answers with James Malone to delve further into the personal significance the new album will have in light of his recent bout with anorexia.

How have things been for you lately? It’s been mentioned in the press that you’re presently overcoming some health concerns that led to the recent ARSIS tour cancellations. Have you been finding some centeredness as of late?

James: Over the past six months or so, I really have been trying to “get my shit together” so to speak. I have my good days and bad weeks still, but overall I feel much better than I have in years; I actually feel “healthy” for once. I think that this newfound healthy lifestyle will have a positive effect on Arsis and the band will emerge stronger than ever. This is my hope anyhow.

It seems you delve deep into what you set your mind too. This is perhaps most evident in being the chief composer for ARSIS. I also understand you’re very detailed and particular about food. Where did your concern for food and health originate and how do you believe it led to your recent struggle with anorexia?

James: It is something that I have struggled with since I was a teenager. I had to drop out of college twice because of these issues. When I was 17/18 years old my weight, blood pressure and heart rate were so low that I would pass out if I stood up too quickly. Of course my parents made sure I had the help I needed at that time, I had to see four doctors a week for about a year. It was very frustrating for me, to be so compulsive about food. I eventually turned to alcohol to (in my mind) help me relax about my food issues. This form of self medicating was also very unhealthy, and I became a fat, bloated drunk as a result. This is probably what people think of when they think about James Malone and Arsis. When I quit drinking about a year and a half ago, the eating disorder re-appeared almost immediately. I lost 100 pounds in about four months. I was a very efficient anorexic this time around. Lately I have been trying to find balance in my life. I don’t think I am there yet, but I am closer than I ever have been.

Has it been a challenge for you to open up to the media about your personal life or do you feel it’s therapeutic in some form, or perhaps a necessary responsibility to share with fans?

James: Well, I felt as though I had no choice. A certain person close to the band put out a press release regarding our participation in the Carcass tour (or cancellation). This press release was not approved by the band, management or record label. It was vague, but it said enough to get the “rumor mill” started. After this press release, I felt it was important to let the fans know the truth and offer my apologies to Nuclear Blast, our booking agent, etc. I would have preferred not to say anything, but I figured if people are going to be pissed off, let them be pissed about the truth. Who knows, perhaps there are Arsis fans out there that could be suffering from similar problems and my “story” could help or inspire them in some way.

What manner of discipline, or lack thereof, are you engaging to cope with your situation?

James: I track my food to make sure I eat enough to function. I’m still very focused on diet and exercise. The difference is that now I’m very concerned with being healthy and not letting myself self-destruct.

It’s rare to learn of a man experiencing anorexia, as it tends to find association with women. Do you believe it’s important to give voice to the fact that men can undergo the same dilemma? Are there male support groups available for this condition?

James: I feel that it is important for people to realize that men can and do suffer from disorders such as anorexia and bulimia. Finding treatment this past winter was very difficult for me, especially without any insurance. There are groups/universities that do offer help.

Other than the cancellation of your participation in touring, has your health affected you in any other creative processes?

James: It most certainly did affect me for a number of months. I didn’t have the energy to exist, let alone compose music. It took a few of months of getting constant, proper nutrition before I really had the energy to focus on the band.

Your next album will be titled, “Starve for the Devil.” Was this title a direct reflection on your recent struggle?

James: For me, it’s about realizing that a problem exists, doing something to fix the problem, and being able to laugh about it. It’s also a reference to what I consider one of the classic metal albums of all time.

“Starve for the Devil” brings to mind asceticism, a practice, or “training” rather often employed for spiritual realization or self-development. Do you believe your album title could suggest a guidance system for communion with the Devil himself? Did you engage any hallucinatory episodes during your health challenges that might run along these lines?

James: Wow, I wish I could say that I put that kind of thought into the title. I was probably just hungry when I came up with the title. I will say this, when one does starve themselves, reality is definitely altered. I can’t say that I ever hallucinated, but life was very “different” to say the least.

“We are the Nightmare” is a medley of technical guitar orchestrations. Can we expect something similar for “Starve for the Devil?”

James: I am terrible at describing my music. I can say that “Starve for the Devil” is nothing like “We are the Nightmare.”

How did your deal with Washburn Guitars come about? What’s it been like sponsoring them?

James: The label manager at Nuclear Blast USA put me in contact with Washburn. The A&R guy at Washburn seemed super chill over the phone, so I agreed to try out some of their instruments. He sent me a few to try out and I fell in love them instantly. A few months later I was stuck in Chicago for a few days while our van was being repaired and I showed up at the Washburn A&R guys’ apartment, piss drunk, with a bottle of wine in my hand. This probably would have upset most people, but he was cool and let me crash on his couch. We have been friends ever since.

It seems you have an affinity for bats, judging by your bat belt-buckle and the imagery on your signature custom V-guitar. What is it about bats that appeals to you and why?

James: Bats just look cool, plus I am kind of a “goth kid” at heart.

What advice would you offer up to fledgling guitarists who have an interest in playing or developing in the manner in which you have?

James: Listen to “classic” metal and practice. Simply ignore any music that has been produced over the past 15 years or so.

Your interest in music genres is relatively diverse. For example, some of your band photos include you sporting a Sisters of Mercy shirt. What are some other genres you appreciate and what have you been listening too as of late?

James: I am a huge fan of 80’s New Wave and Goth Rock. There is also a special place in my heart for Pat Benetar and Stevie Nicks, no idea why. There is also plenty of 80’s metal on my IPOD.

Are there any final words you wish to share with our readers?

James: Life’s a garden, dig it!

www.myspace.com/arsis
www.nuclearblastusa.com