An Interview with Burn Absolute

Metalcore is on the rise more than ever these days. There are few things we love more than a filthy "blegh!" One of the bands on their way up in the scene is Burn Absolute. Burn Absolute is a five-piece band based across the world, representing Florida, Arkansas, California, and even Bolivia. Drawing inspiration from their diverse musical backgrounds, the band comes together in perfect heavy unison. They are preparing to release their long-awaited next single on December 19th, "Failsafe". I recently had the chance to chat with vocalist Robby Anttila about the single, their influences, and more!

MSM: First of all, would you mind introducing yourself, and briefly explaining your music to any potential new fans?

ROBBY: My name is Robby, and I am the vocalist of Burn Absolute. We are a southern metalcore band making emotionally impactful music for the metal masses. Our music is heavily inspired by the early 2010s raw metalcore sound with a splash of MySpace-era deathcore. If you're a fan of bands like For The Fallen Dreams, Architects, and Miss May I, you will likely enjoy Burn Absolute.

MSM: What first ignited your passion for music? 

ROBBY: It's hard to say exactly what it was; as far as I can remember, I have always loved music in some capacity. I would say seeing bands like Linkin Park when I was younger definitely spurred me to want to create emotionally important music while still being heavy and "brutal".

MSM: Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they helped to shape your sound?

ROBBY: Influence-wise, The Acacia Strain would definitely be one of my personal favorites. I took a break from making music for a couple of years before joining Burn Absolute and their album Slow Decay just really struck something in me. I was just so inspired to create music that tells a story, music with a purpose. So I would have to say The Acacia Strain is a very important and recent influence on me and my music.

MSM: How do you keep your music fresh and relevant in an ever-changing industry?

ROBBY: We just try to do things a little bit different and unorthodox to stand out where we can. With everyone fighting for a position on the totem pole, we are just trying to leave a memorable impact without relying on gimmicks.

MSM: Can you talk about the creative process behind your upcoming single, “Failsafe”, and what themes or messages you were trying to convey?

ROBBY: "Failsafe" is a fallback plan for a process or machine.  In terms of the song, it is the same definition, except I am referring to not having a failsafe. The song is about the baggage of life, on your shoulders, weighing you down. Whether it be PTSD, Depression, or your Career. It is about facing and overcoming that stagnation. It is a spiritual successor to “Groundskeeper,” about taking self-accountability and making the change. Not letting your mistakes or your issues define you. The choice to become a better version or a worse version of yourself. “There is no failsafe, this is my time."

MSM: How will this single and the ones to follow compare to your previous releases?

ROBBY: I think this will be our biggest single to date. I think the production, song writing, and overall presence of this song will show our commitment to making each release better than the last.

MSM: Can you tell us about a particularly memorable performance or moment in your career?

ROBBY: Our most recent sold-out show with Gideon was really impactful for me. Seeing multiple people know our words and having a great time listening to our music is always such a great feeling.

MSM: Can you share any interesting or surprising facts about the band or its members?

ROBBY: The band was originally started as an internet project in 2020- our guitar player Micky is from Bolivia, and still currently lives there!

MSM: Are there any bands that you would recommend that people may not have heard of? 

ROBBY: I would definitely love for people to check out What We Seek, Catcher and the Rye, and Omenkiller. All those bands are doing some amazing things for the music scene in the southeast!

MSM: Do you have a “guilty pleasure” karaoke song? 

ROBBY: Definitely gonna have to out myself and say "Never Gonna Give You Up" by Rick Astley.

MSM: What do you think the title would be if someone wrote a biography about you? 

ROBBY: "Florida Man Spin Kicks Alligator While Wearing Shrek Crocs"

MSM: What was the first concert that you ever attended? 

ROBBY: August Burns Red.

MSM: Lastly, do you have anything else that you’d like to share with your fans?

ROBBY: We are eternally grateful for all of the amazing support you have given us. This past year couldn't have been possible without you guys jamming those tunes! Thank you!