Interview with Autopsy drummer and vocalist Chris Reifert

I recently caught up with Chris Reifert of the legendary death metal band Autopsy to discuss the group’s newest release, Macabre Eternal. After more than a decade off the grid the guys are back with a vengeance; Macabre Eternal is a no-nonsense, death metal record from the critically acclaimed masters of the genre. Here’s what Reifert had to say.

First off I would like to say welcome back. How does it feel to be back in the saddle so to speak with Autopsy again?
Chris: Thanks and it feels splendiferous. Especially since the saddle has blood, spikes and chains on it. Actually it’s a bit uncomfortable, but that’s metal for you.

Now that your new CD Macabre Eternal is complete how do you feel about it? Are you satisfied with the outcome?
Chris: It is an Autopsy record through and through which makes us feel like dancing in the streets. Just not like the Mick Jagger/David Bowie video of the song where it looks like they’re gonna start making out any second whilst singing. Gotta love ’em both, but jeez!

What was the writing process like for this CD? Did you guys all write together? How long did it take?
Chris: It was written using guitars, tape recorders, paper and pens, the same as always. It took long enough to be complete which is the best part. Otherwise we would have had to record lots of Bay City Rollers covers for time filler. Then again, that would have kicked ass too.

Macabre Eternal comes to us by way of Peaceville Records. Are you happy the way they handled the record, regarding distribution, marketing and promotion? How has the label been accommodating the band’s needs?
Chris: Yeah, they’ve been doing a fine job. I’m just waiting for the album to go to Tin! And yeah, our needs are met fairly well. I’m expecting a nice massage this evening courtesy of Peaceville. And a drink with an umbrella in it.

When you compare the early days of Death metal to the scene today, what do you feel has changed for the better? What do you feel has become worse?
Chris: It’s still going strong, that’s the main thing. Yeah, there’s tons of bands out there and this whole internet thing and all that jazz, but people need sick music in their life just like usual. I’m glad we can help supply that to them.

What is your view on the current state of Death Metal?
Chris: It’s both deathly and metallish, so all’s aces there! God, what a dumb answer that was. Kinda like all the other ones in this interview.

How quick are you in the studio? Can you usually knock things out in a couple takes?
Chris: We’re pretty quick in the studio. We did Macabre Eternal in seven days which is damn good I think. Any longer than that and we would have brought in a ping pong table or something to while away the extra hours. Serve up!

Do you have any touring plans made yet?
Chris: Nope, just some killer fest dates at this point. Touring would most likely be the undoing of the band and we’re having too much fun to let that happen.

Any closing words?
Chris: Thanks for not asking why the band got back together two years after the fact. I’ve been answering that question in my sleep lately! Thanks for fitting us in your space and buy multiple copies of all our records. You won’t be sorry. Cheers, chunks, blood, guts and insanity to ya.