The Spiral Sequence

Story

The Spiral Sequence is a solo alternative metal project by Australian musician and producer James O'Toole.

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What is music to you? What does it give you?

Creative expression, fun, satisfaction.

What is your music dream?

To support myself financially solely through writing original music.

If you could change the world - what would you start with?

Create a society where everyone was given enough to cover their basic expenses like housing, food and utilities. There is enough for everyone. Homelessness and poverty should be a thing of the past, there is enough technological knowledge and resources to feed and house everyone on the planet in sustainable ways. I'm all for capitalism and enterprise - if you want to do more you should be rewarded for your efforts, but we also need to start looking after people as well. Think of the things people could achieve if those basic needs were covered. We would be free to create and build so much more.

Which is the most memorable song from your childhood?

Either God Save The Queen by The Sex Pistols or The Number of the Beast by Iron Maiden. When I heard those songs they instantly hooked me into the world of rock 'n roll!

Who are your favorite musical artists or bands?

Tool, Iron Maiden, Paradise Lost, Dead Can Dance, Killing Joke, Machine Head, Deftones, Fear Factory, Sevendust, Nine Inch Nails, Rollins Band, Hatebreed

What inspires you to make music?

Ideas, other music, expression, the challenge of writing.

What is the message you want to send with your music?

It varies from song to song. You'll have to listen to figure it out, plus I think it's cool if people take their own meaning from the lyrics.

How do you feel when you perform in front of an audience?

Usually nervous for the first couple of songs, after that it's a great feeling. The best part is playing a bunch of gigs in short succession like on a tour, it's better as you get really comfortable and play really well.

How do you see the musicians’ reality nowadays? What could be improved?

We have to be more responsible for our own art and take charge of our own careers. It's a lot of work, but it can be even more rewarding. Any imporvement will have to come from musicians themselves.

What do you think of Drooble?

It's an interesting idea, and I'm enjoying exploring the platform.

What frustrates you most as a musician?

Finding time to write and create music between paying the bills and other distractions.

Do you support your local scene as a fan? How?

I go to gigs and I will buy albums by local bands if I like their music.

What qualities should a musician nowadays have in order to get their music heard by a larger audience?

Entrepreneurship. You have to be willing to put your music out there and learn about the importance of marketing, or find someone who can help you with it.

Share some awesome artists that we’ve never heard of.

Shihad, The Mark of Cain, Sunk Loto, Cog, The Butterfly Effect, Superheist, Dead Letter Circus and of course The Spiral Sequence is worth a listen ;)