In the world of metal music, Castle Rat and its 'rat queen,' Riley Pinkerton, have been making waves with their unique brand of medieval rodent-themed doom metal. But amidst their rising popularity, an interesting debate has emerged, one that Pinkerton finds both hilarious and complimentary.
The Industry Plant Debate
The suggestion that Castle Rat is an 'industry plant' might seem absurd to some, but Pinkerton sees it as a testament to their DIY ethos. Despite their success, the band has maintained a grassroots approach, from building props in friends' kitchens to creating a 10-foot rat puppet with upholstery foam and local fabric. This hands-on, DIY attitude is what sets them apart and has led to their dedicated fan base.
The Power of Collaboration
One of the key aspects of Castle Rat's evolution is the shift towards collaboration. While the first album was primarily Pinkerton's vision, 'The Bestiary' saw the band open up and embrace a more collaborative process. This change was not without its challenges, as Pinkerton admits to shedding a few tears along the way. However, it ultimately led to a more sustainable and rewarding creative journey.
The Beauty of Collaboration
A perfect example of the benefits of collaboration can be found in the song 'Serpent.' Initially, the band struggled with the song, but by scrapping the original version and starting fresh, they created something truly beautiful. The song became a testament to the power of collective creativity, with each member bringing their unique skills and perspectives to the table.
The Female Experience in Metal
As a woman in a male-dominated genre, Pinkerton shares her unique perspective on the challenges and pressures she faces. She speaks about the need to constantly prove herself and the hesitation she initially felt about collaborating with her bandmates. However, she has learned to let go of control and embrace the talents of those around her, creating a more cohesive and successful band.
The Future of Castle Rat
Looking ahead, Castle Rat has big dreams and ambitions. Inspired by the likes of Type O Negative and the '90s goth scene, they plan to push the boundaries of their sound while remaining true to their roots. Pinkerton jokes about writing an industrial metal album, but assures fans that it will always be filtered through the Castle Rat lens.
The Power of Visuals
Castle Rat's live shows are a spectacle, featuring sword fights, costumes, and immersive storytelling. Pinkerton speaks about the enjoyment she finds in creating the lore and backstories for their performances. She draws inspiration from KISS and their legendary stage presence, incorporating elements like spitting blood to engage the audience.
The Importance of Kindness
Touring with established bands like Dethklok and Amon Amarth has been a humbling experience for Castle Rat. They've witnessed firsthand the power of kindness and inclusion, and hope to emulate this as they continue to grow. Pinkerton speaks about the impact these bands have had on their outlook, and how they plan to pay it forward as they rise through the ranks.
The Dream Stage Production
When asked about her dream stage production, Pinkerton's imagination runs wild. She envisions riding out on a unicorn, a la Rob Halford, and having a giant, winged rat fly over the crowd. She wants to create a multi-tiered stage production, similar to King Diamond, with real-life special effects and inflatables. It's a grand vision, but one that Castle Rat is determined to bring to life.
Conclusion
Castle Rat's journey is a testament to the power of creativity, collaboration, and a DIY spirit. Despite the challenges and misconceptions they face, they continue to push boundaries and create a unique and captivating experience for their fans. As they continue to rise, one can't help but wonder what other surprises and innovations they have in store for the metal world.
