Entertainment | Music
Dubai's death metal: Lots of nerve
After Nervecell's gruelling four-month tour of Europe — where the quartet played in front of thousands of screaming fans at music festivals in Holland, Belgium, Austria and Germany — XPRESS caught up with them at their Dubai base at Jumeirah, just hours after their plane landed.
- Nadeem Hanif, Staff Reporter
- Published: 00:00 November 19, 2009
- Image Credit: Virendra saklani, Xpress
- From left, Nervecell’s vocalist James Khazaal, lead guitarist Rami Mustafa, drummer Louis Rando and guitarist Barney Ribeiro
The first to greet us was Rami Mustafa, the lead guitarist, who has been with the group since 2003.
Hard work
Amid half-unpacked boxes, giant speakers and instrument cases he said: "This is the side of touring most people don't see. A lot of hard work goes into performing behind the scenes and touring does take a toll on us, but it's worth it when you play in front of 20,000 people." It was evident that the band's summer tour might be a turning point, from which the members may now build on to do supporting acts for some of the biggest bands.
Whilst on tour, they played Rock Am Ring and Rock Am Park, Wacken and With Full Force in Germany.
Uncompromising style
They impressed the audience so much that they were snapped up by a German record label and finally managed to release their debut album Preaching Venom, which has been warmly received by critics who have praised their uncompromising style that blends well with Middle Eastern flavour.
According to Rami, the reaction to their music from the European crowd "was amazing".
Guitarist Barney Ribeiro — the only original member from the group that was formed in 2000 — was particularly proud of how the band have inspired other acts in the UAE.
"The response we had in Europe has really pushed us. We are hoping to tour the US next year so the following we have built up on — I hope — will encourage American promoters," Barney said.
Aussie drummer Louis Rando joined the band in March following spells with Australian groups Pathogen and The Furor.
"It's been a fantastic experience being a part of this band. We all help each other to keep our feet on the ground and not get carried away with the success we have had so far because there is a long way to go to where we want to be," he said. The need to keep things in perspective is a theme that the members come back to.
According to the band's imposing vocalist James Khazaal, the members have a steely determination to create headline acts.
Not a hobby
"Some people abroad seem to think that we are all rich and we are doing this as a hobby because we're from Dubai. But that's not the case. Music is our only focus. We love performing and creating new music. It's the biggest thrill!" he said.
For more information visit www.nervecell.net
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