In an exclusive, Halloween-themed interview, Michael Vampire, frontman and founder of Vampires Everywhere, opens up about his career, his dark musical aesthetic, and a near-death experience that helped shape his creative direction. Known for his haunting vocals, eerie stage presence, and flair for the supernatural, Michael has crafted a unique place for Vampires Everywhere in the metalcore and goth scenes.
Reflecting on his intense love for Halloween, Michael says, “I try to always throw a concert or be involved in some sort of event on Halloween… It’s kind of sacrilegious not doing so.” Halloween has become a defining tradition for Michael and his band, who bring “dancers, effects, fire, and special guests” to their Halloween shows to create an unpredictable yet unforgettable experience. The stage, for Michael, is a place to indulge his passions for the macabre and to connect with fans who share his love for all things dark and mysterious.
A life-altering accident nearly took Michael’s life, an experience that has deeply influenced his artistry. “I was pronounced dead in the ambulance,” he recalls. “The doctor told me somebody must have been on my shoulder.” This brush with death, coupled with his childhood obsession with vampires and the occult, has shaped Vampires Everywhere’s haunting undertones. “I try to co-relate… whether it be a relationship or some sort of situation, I’ll always have a darker undertone,” he explains. His sound, a blend of “80s and Nine Inch Nails type of feel,” combines synthesizers and industrial beats with a gritty, gothic edge, creating a soundscape that fans immediately recognize.
The creative direction of Vampires Everywhere is evolving, particularly with the help of Michael’s new writing partner, Paul Bartolome from Asking Alexandria. This collaboration has enabled Michael to push his vocal abilities. “I’m also a better vocalist than I was. I wanted these songs to be more vocal-driven… to show people, look, I’ve been working on this.” The band’s new music embraces nostalgia while presenting what he describes as a “pristine feel,” giving fans both a taste of the original Vampires Everywhere and a new, refined sound.
Michael’s deep appreciation for horror also permeates his work. With influences ranging from The Conjuring to Bram Stoker’s Dracula, he envisions Vampires Everywhere’s music as a soundtrack to classic horror moments, saying it would be “hilarious” to hear one of his metalcore songs paly during Bela Lugosi’s slow, suspenseful scenes. He even dreams of making a Vampires Everywhere comic book series, combining his music with visuals inspired by the stories of horror icons.
While Vampires Everywhere appeals to goth and metalcore fans alike, Michael takes pride in his authenticity, ensuring his music resonates with these diverse audiences. Reflecting on the band’s cross-genre appeal, he says, “We’ve proven ourselves in both Metalcore and goth to achieve both fan bases… the newer generation likes to mix it anyway, so it’s working out.”
Michael also expresses his gratitude for Asking Alexandria and Alesana, bands that have been integral in support Vampires Everywhere since the early years. The mutual respect between the bands is evident as Michael notes, “Big thanks to them for sure.” In his own way, Michael Vampire is carving a legacy in the goth-metal scene—one dark, haunting melody at a time.
Check out the full interview through the video below!
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