This interview was anything but confrontational as I caught up with Papa Roach frontman Jacoby Shaddix on the band’s tour bus a few days ago. The band is currently on a U.S. headlining tour, with support from In This Moment. In addition to a monster touring schedule, the band has been very busy off the road as well. They guys contributed a new single, “Even If I Could,” to the soundtrack for the blockbuster film The Avengers. The guys have also finished production of their new record, titled The Connection, which is due out in October.
“It’s fuckin’ bangin’, (our) best album yet.” states Shaddix. “I’m allowed to judge my own music. Once it’s released, then its up to the fans to come up with their own conclusion but I think this is the dopest shit we’ve come out with yet.” A midst all these great things happening, unfortunately there is a bit of bad news. The same day as our interview, Jacoby had just come from seeing a vocal specialist who told him he a nodule (like a callous) forming on his vocal chords, which is affecting his ability to hit the high notes. He received steroid treatment that day, and with continued treatment and care. “I’m pretty bummed (about his voice), but I’m not stressin’ on that. I should be fine (for Uproar Festival).”
We went on to discuss the record more in-depth, Jacoby said the new album really encompasses all the elements of Papa Roach’s career. “We just took everything we’ve done, and put it in a blender,” said Shaddix. Be sure to check out the interview for more on the new album, as well as discussion about the state of rock music today and the evolution of Papa Roach’s career.
Papa Roach exploded onto the mainstream scene in 2000 with their major label debut, Infest, which was certified triple-platinum and hit #5 on the Billboard Top 200. The band’s next 4 albums would all debut in the Top 25 on the Billboard Top 200. Post-Uproar, Papa Roach are heading to Europe, and then back to the States heading into 2013. The new record, The Connection, is set to drop October 2. No need to panic, P-Roach Nation, with additional treatment from his doctor and better day-to-day care of his voice, Jacoby and Papa Roach plan to take on all their touring with no foreseen cancellations. And, as always, Jacoby will be doing his usual run through the crowd at every show on the tour. P-Roach style – CRANK IT UP! – by Matt Bishop