Alex Varkatzas (Dead Icarus, ex-Atreyu) | Talk Toomey

Alex Varkatzas joins Joshua Toomey and Talk Toomey to discuss his
new band, Dead Icarus. In the interview, Alex discusses the
evolution of his musical journey and upcoming project. Initially
revisiting his claim of inventing metalcore, he expresses a
desire to infuse the genre with influences from his upbringing.
While acknowledging Lamb of God's significance in the NWOAHM
scene, he reflects on Atreyu's musical direction, expressing a
preference for a heavier sound over an '80s vibe. Despite this,
he expresses newfound musical passion, praising his Dead Icarus
bandmate Gabe Mangold.


Alex delves into the challenges of developing his voice alongside
Brandon Saller, citing admiration for Saller's voice. With an
upcoming album slated for a spring release, he discusses the
writing and recording process and the goal of blending childhood
metal influences into the new material. Reflecting on the
emotional nature of singers, he shares insights into his creative
process, emphasizing peak performance amidst doubt.


Addressing regrets about not resisting producer Feldman's
influence and the difficulty of starting over, Alex recounts a
transformative moment encountering M. Shadows at a kids'
basketball game. Inspired by Shadows' resilience, he expresses a
newfound drive. Committed to fans, he seeks a return to pre-Lead
Sails times and clarifies that the track "Sell Out" is a personal
reflection rather than a dig at Atreyu. The interview concludes
on a positive note, highlighting Alex's renewed appreciation for
life and teasing additional exciting content for the audience,
including plans to tour starting in the spring.