Solid State Records has identified The Overseer as part of its “New Breed”, and one listen to the band’s debut, We Search, We Dig, is all that is needed to see that there is something special about the band. The album is a great example of a band “getting it” on its debut release. The Overseer exudes a confidence about what it as a band wants to do, both musically and lyrically. The band will certainly appeal to fans of Define the Great Line-era Underoath, but there are also elements of what made Thrice and As Cities Burn so enjoyable. — by Nicholas Senior
Could you identify yourself for our readers?
Hey guys! This is Abishai and I play drums in The Overseer.
Can you describe what it has been like this past year? It must have been a whirlwind from being unsigned to releasing your debut on Solid State?
Everything happened so fast. It seemed like in a couple months we were signed to a label and recording our very first full-length. This is by far the best year for this band’s existence. We currently have management, a booking agent, and are getting on tours we never dreamed of. God is good and definitely has blessed us.
What has the reception of We Search, We Dig been like to you?
I think it has gone over really well! A lot of people have given positive feedback and seem to like it a lot.
While the album is not a concept album, do you think there are overarching themes or lyrical motifs that stretch through the album?
Absolutely. The title is “We Search, We Dig” which is taken from the second track, “Dredge.” It challenges people to search for hope in this broken world.
Is there a song in particular that has a meaning or story behind it that you would like to share?
The song we did the music video for, “Amend,” is a very passionate, emotional song that comes from our vocalist that came from a home with divorced parents. The song is saying that true love can mend a marriage. I feel this generation takes marriage lightly when it is a bond that shouldn’t be broken by man.
How would you describe your sound to someone who hasn’t heard of The Overseer before?
I would say we’re an aggressive rock band with some metal influences.
There are moments in the album that showcase a sludgy side to the band. Is that something you went for, or was it something that just happened during the production of the album? Is it a side you would like to explore more in your next record?
We like really raw and heavy parts so this was definitely intentional. We wanted these parts to stick out from the rest of the record.
In most reviews that I have heard, the only common complaint I see is the short length of the record. Is that a sign that there is more to come soon from The Overseer camp, or were these just the ten songs that fit within the framework of the album?
We honestly don’t try and write short songs. We just cut the songs where we feel we need to. We don’t want to put a bunch of filler into a song to make it longer.
I know we touched on it a little bit before, but what does signing to Solid State mean to you? Have you been pleased with everything so far on the label front?
It means we have reached one of our goals. We all grew up listening to Solid State bands so we’re stoked to be a part of the roster now. They have worked super hard for us so far and we don’t have one complaint yet.
Do you have any touring plans lined up for the rest of the summer and into the fall?
We are opening for August Burns Red North American Headlining tour! Dates are on our Facebook. Aug. 31st-Oct. 6th.
If you could tour with any three bands (active or inactive), who would they be?
Thrice, As I Lay Dying, Children 18:3.
Outside of hometown shows, what are some of your favorite venues to play? Is there any particular restaurants you enjoy frequenting while on the road?
The Gear in Franklin, IN. The 86 Club in Cinncinatti, OH. The Door in Dallas, TX. We really like Cook Out. Mainly found in North Carolina but starting to branch out on the easy coast.
What would you say is The Overseer’s mission statement as a band?
To inspire and encourage through our lyrics and actions. To challenge people to search for hope.
Where do you want to see the band fitting in with today’s music scene?
We don’t really want to blend in with the scene. We want to stick out and have a refreshing sound.
What music are you listening to now? Do you have any particular “guilty pleasures” you care to share?
Ascend the Hill. Foo Fighters. The Civil Wars. Taylor Swift. Thrice. The Gaslight Anthem. Manchester Orchestra. Linkin Park. Needtobreathe.
As a drummer, who has influenced you the most as a player?
My favorite drummer for the longest time was Matt Greiner (August Burns Red). He challenged me to step out of the cliche metal drumming and actually write interesting, tasteful drum parts that would accent the song.
If you could have a drum solo duel with any one drummer, who would it be?
That’s a tough one because all the drummers I’m thinking of would absolutely destroy me and make me look like a child. I would probably have to say Dave Grohl or Aaron Spears though. Super solid drummers with separate styles.
What would you be doing if it weren’t for music? Did you have an interest that you would have pursued?
For the longest time, I thought I was going to be a professional soccer player. Ha! My dad started me when I was 5 and I played up until high school. Everything I did was related to soccer. My dad was my soccer coach for most of my life and I was actually a referee for a couple years. I played on a traveling, competitive team for a little over a year and decided it wasn’t what I wanted. The day came for me to try out for my High School team but I didn’t get a physical in time. That day pretty much changed my whole life.
On your Facebook, you state, “Religion is dead. Christ is risen.” Would you care to elaborate on that mantra?
There’s a quote that says, “Religion is what’s left when the spirit leaves the room.” I believe that without the Holy Spirit, religion and church are just tradition. Waking up every Sunday, going to a building, raising your hands and reading the words off the screen. Don’t get me wrong, Church is necessary for you to strengthen your relationship but I just think we have missed the point. To see the behind the scenes of some churches (not all churches) is heartbreaking. They do it for a paycheck.
Is there anything else you would like to share to our readers?
Keep up with us on Twitter and Facebook. Check out our tour dates!
