Interview with Aaron Bridgewater of As They Sleep

We recently talked with Aaron Bridgewater, vocalist of Solid State Record's newest artist As They Sleep, about their new album and more.

Christian Rock Rocks (Brooks Ginnan): Can you say your name and what you do in As They Sleep?
Aaron Bridgewater (As They Sleep): Aaron Bridgewater. I am the singer.

CRR: You have a new album releasing on November 22nd titled Dynasty. I read that it is a concept album, can you explain where you got the idea to do a concept album?
Aaron: Honestly, it's just something we have always wanted to do... I have always found concept albums to be intriguing, I mean if you can tie an entire album together revolving around one subject and keep it interesting, then you've done your job, hahaha.

CRR: What are the lyrical themes found on Dynasty?
Aaron: Dynasty focuses mainly on the rise and fall of various kingdoms, empires and dynasties throughout history... Both factual and mythological. It ties in the reasons for collapse with power and battle-lust, and intertwines it all with modern problems and politics that we are dealing with today. It pretty much outlines popular stories in history regarding false gods, struggle, famine, dictatorship, etc. and why these things didn't work. The album starts off with "Oracle of the Dead" - a balls to the wall look at Hades, the so called "God of the underworld". It then ventures through history, examining ancient Egypt, the Mayan civilization, and even Attila the Hun (look him up kids), only to wrap it all up with "The Unseen"... A kingdom we can only dream of, and exists only through faith.

We chose Dynasty as it perfectly sums up the album, and even though it's a succession of rulers all from the same family or line, it symbolizes our inheritance of this earth as brothers and sisters. Whether we believe it or not, we're all worthy of inhabiting great things in the future, as long as we cleanse ourselves of the past.

CRR: How did the process of recording the album go?
Aaron: About as smooth as sand paper. The studio can be your best friend or your worst enemy. All depends upon your mood... All in all it went pretty good. You tell us! Dynasty is out Nov. 22nd! Haha.

CRR: What role does your faith play in your music?
Aaron: Well, I certainly don't want to send the wrong message, but at the same time, I don't want to shove anything down anybody's throat. It's a thin line, ya know? I just want the listener to interpret the music their own way, as long as I know it's a positive message, I feel good about it.

CRR: How did you get signed to Solid State Records?
Aaron: The old fashioned way! We actually played a show at a venue called The District in Lake Orion, MI with Gwen Stacy. Turns out there was a Solid State A&R rep there and he happened to catch our set. We exchanged info and the rest is history!

CRR: Who are some of your biggest musical influences?
Aaron: Wow, ummm everything? Seriously though, all metal, from 1980 to present.

CRR: Do you have any upcoming touring plans?
Aaron: Yes, we are happy to announce our spot on the Very Metal Christmas tour in Dec. with our label mates Living Sacrifice, Becoming The Archetype, The Showdown, and To Speak of Wolves. Can't wait! Our CD release party will be in Pontiac, MI on Nov. 26th at RKS Studios... Be there!

CRR: Any last things you'd like to mention?
Aaron: We'd really like to thank the entire Solid State family for believing in us and giving us the opportunity to show the world who we are. Thank you!