Messiah’el: I first heard about “Burial Park” by way of their song “Lifted,” which appears on YouTube. Coincidently, I met one of the relatives of the band the following night. She gave me the contact info for the band and I had a chance to meet up with Giorgio, and get some insights about the groups formula. I think you will enjoy what they have to say, as well as, the energy of their music. Very interesting concepts expressed in that piece, but for our readership who may be unfamiliar with your group, how would you describe Burial Park? Who are you?
Burial Park: We are a five-piece alternative/metal band from Staten Island who wanted to bring a different vibe to rock music. As a band we decided to mix heavy screaming with melodic vocals to achieve a perfect blend to deliver a distinguishable sound.
Messiah’el: When I first heard the name “Burial Park,” I was intrigued by the meaning of the name; would you care to elaborate on its definition?
Burial Park: Burial Park is a cemetery across the street from Giorgio’s house. He grew up playing football and baseball with his grandfather and friends, just beyond the front gates. As the years went by it became a part of him, a place to turn to. The meaning behind the name is very ironic. A graveyard is known to be a place for the dead, but if you look past the trees and tombstones, you’ll find this residence filled with beauty and peace. Burial Park allows you to free your mind and soul; it’s a place where your dreams are set free.
Messiah’el: Now if I remember correctly Burial Park consists of about 5 members. Who are they, and what are their roles in the band?
Burial Park: Giorgio LaCorte, the lead guitarist started the band in 2005. He writes the guitar rifts, structures songs, and contributes to writing the lyrics. Dave Colliton, the drummer joined the band in 2008. As the percussionist, he take the song and creates the beat according to what he would hear in his mind . Along with his brother, Jesse Colliton, the bassist joined in 2008 as well. He writes the unique bass lines and gives the band the “boom boom”. In 2010, Sal Spurge the male vocalist joined the band. Sal is here to bring out high levels of energy with controlled chaos. Lastly, the female vocalist Dani Bauso joined the band to give it its final distinct touch. Dani on the other hand gives Burial Park its charm. She is a main contributor in writing the lyrics and brings catchy melodies to our songs.
Messiah’el: What is it that you are trying to do with your music?
Burial Park: Burial Park is trying to save Rock N Roll! With our exclusive style, we strive to satisfy ourselves as well as our fans. Our intentions are to have positive impacts and give a voice to those who don’t have the strength to.
Messiah’el: Is there an overall theme in the Burial Park’s music that fans should be aware of?
Burial Park: As a band, we don’t have a specific theme. We like to keep our fans guessing, we write music how it comes it to us. We didn’t mold to any stereotype.
Messiah’el: When I listen to some of your songs, like “Not Alone,” which is my favorite by the way, I can feel several musical impressions. Can you share with us some of your musical influences and sources of inspiration that has aided Burial Park in being who they are today?
Burial Park: We all have a different taste in music, which makes us who we are. Alkaline Trio, Atreyu, Avenged Sevenfold and Alterbridge inspire Giorgio’s works. His rifts are mainly inspired by Dan Jacobs himself, the lead guitarist from Atreyu. Dave’s works are inspired by Atreyu, Avenged Sevenfold, Bullet for my Valentine and Killswitch Engage. Sal’s writing inspirations come from Linkin Park, The Used, Paramore, Chiodos, and Story of the Year. Jesse’s base lines are inspired by Kings of Leon, Bullet for My Valentine, Incubus, and Killswitch. Janis Joplin, Eddie Vedder, Kelly Clarkson, and Adele inspire Dani. As we combined all of these different genres and sounds of music, we created Burial Park.
Messiah’el: Where do you see Burial Park in the next 5 years?
Burial Park: Within the next five years, we hope to be signed to a record label playing our music all over the world. As a very dedicated band, we want to progress musically and lyrically because it is what we love doing and it keeps our souls alive.
Messiah’el: I would like to congratulate you on your recent show at Webster’s Hall! Are there any Burial Park events coming up in the near future that we should be aware of?
Burial Park: We are currently in the process of writing a full-length album. However, we continue to get our name out and book other shows. On October 21st we plan to perform at PLAY Sports Bar on Staten Island. Soon thereafter we will perform again at Webster Hall by the end of the year.
Messiah’el: I appreciate you taking the time to answer a few questions for our readership here at Blue Steel Magazine. Are you guys reaching out in other areas of the arts? It seems like you are on your way to starting your own label. How can readers here contact Burial Park?
Burial Park: As of now, we stay focused on one thing and that is our music. If something appeals to us, we will surly step forward in expanding our interests. You can contact us either through Facebook, Reverbnation, or our Gmail account (Burialpark@gmail.com).
Messiah’el: Finally, what advice would you give to a young person trying to enter the world of music? Any final thoughts?
Burial Park: You just need to stay hungry and keep on pushing yourself to the next level. Never give up if you feel you have what it takes. Burial Park BABY!! We greatly appreciate your interest in our band and giving us the opportunity for the interview. We hope to see you at our next show!
Messiah’el: Thanks for taking the time to answer a few questions and we would like to wish you the best in all your endeavors. Keep Rocking!!!!
This Band Rocks, very tight !