DJ-Draven: Interview with HexRX

HexRX: Interview with DJ-Draven

2011 May 7

Hex|Rx is the creation of Roger Jarvis, one of the key members to the legendary band Kevorkian Death Cycle.

Q: Hi Roger, it is an honor to have you do this interview.

A: Thanks Draven, it's good to talk with you.

Q: It has been mentioned that Hex|Rx was created in 2006. It is never mentioned what the inspiration was for forming a unique band such as this. What was the idea or stimulus for creating Hex|Rx?

A: The project began to take form while writing a Kevorkian Death Cycle album. For reasons and forces of nature Ryan and myself could not come together to finish the album. I didn't want to sit on the tracks so I decided to do something that I have always wanted to do and that is, make it my OWN. I wanted to do things that I wasn't really able to do with Kevorkian Death Cycle so as luck would have it, I ran with it. The idea was to have multiple artists to bring in on the project but keep one consistent idea while making the albums flow continuously and seamlessly. Time will tell.

Q: Many in the music world love to give labels to what genres a band is. Hex|Rx has been viewed by others as a fusion of Industrial Rock, EBM, and IDM. How do you see the band in terms of style and also any possible genres it most closely associates with?

A: I'm glad you asked that. Recently, while playing a show in Chicago, I asked one of our fans how he would label Hex|Rx or what Hex|Rx sounds like to him. The answer, 'Really noisy EBM with a melody.' I was fine with that answer because that is exactly what I set out to do. I like to throw different subgenres into music. I think by doing that you can make somewhat of your "own" sound.

Q: Hex|Rx has an incredibly unique name, what was the inspiration for the name?

A: I wanted to keep a medical feel to the name just as Kevorkian Death Cycle did being that Jack Kevorkian is a Dr. I also work in the medical industry so it just feels natural to me.

Q: Unlike many other bands, you write, compose, and are seen by many as the image of what Hex|Rx is, yet you don't do the vocals for the band. Is there a reason for this approach?

A: Yeah, I'm a shitty singer! I would be a horrible front man because I'm a bit to shy too be a front man. Besides, I think being the man behind the scenes such a Wizard in Wizard of Oz seems more appropriate for my personality. The person that no one really knows.

Q: With the release of 'X' you had Taury Goforth perform the vocals and Daemon Noir does the vocals on 'D.' With the eventual release of the album 'E,' will you be using either of these two for vocals on this album? If not, do you see them having any influence on future albums?

A: Yes. Daemon will be the lead vocalist for the album. There will also be other vocalists as well; Ryan, from Kevorkian, being one of them. We are also putting out an EP with Squalor leading the vocals with some remixes and the EP being titled, "Serial Hex Addict".

Q: Have those that have been involved with the vocals and playing the instruments played any deeper role in the development of the songs? If so, what impact have they presented?

A: For sure. Nick Viola has a large part in the development and writing the music as well as Daemon. I like having different input because I can take that and go an entire different direction than how the song originally began. It definitely keeps it interesting for me that's for sure.

Q: Those that have become better versed with Hex|Rx have noticed that the albums are only letter based. Some have speculated that you are either spelling something out something with the letters, using them as an acronym for something bigger, and even more that have figured that you are planning on having releases for each letter of the alphabet. What insight would you be willing to share with your fans?

A: Hmmmm. The fans are going to have to hold out on this one— sorry everyone. For me it would be like if someone told me what was inside a gift right before unwrapping it.

Q: Unlike Kevorkian Death Cycle, Hex|Rx has had limited concerts. For those that would love to see you perform, what upcoming concerts have you got slated?

A: We just played a benefit show for a friend that is still in much need of funds due to medical bills while surviving cancer. My heart is with her. We just played Chicago for the first time EVER. Greg Ripes from Kevorkian Death Cycle was able to come along and do sound for us which helped make it even more memorable. Next is Das Bunker Atlanta and after that Sadisco (Fight Club) at which Squalor will be performing as well with us. Those are the only ones booked as of now. There will be more to come!

Q: Much of the music to Hex|Rx has a very unique structure in that it shows many reflections of moods in the songs. It also shows a special fusion of electro-industrial, EBM, and even ambient. This can be seen in the melodies, the vocals, and even in the lyrics. Countless bands have struggled to approach what you have mastered in these two albums. What advice would you have for bands attempting music in the direction you have presented with Hex|Rx?

A: Have an open mind with a narrow goal. Work with as many people and artists as possible and the most important thing 'LOVE WHAT YOU DO! But, when asked if you would do it again the answer should be 'NO!'

Q: Some bands prefer to pursue the lyrics and build with those or first the melody and develop from that. What method has been the most effective with the creation of the songs in Hex|Rx?

A: It has always been the music first in any of my projects I am working on, or have worked with. I wouldn't be opposed if it were the other way around though.

Q: Everyone has bands that they love to hear; artists commonly mention the bands that gave them the first spark of inspiration into the areas of music they now are in. Are there any bands that have had this impact upon you?

A: I remember the day I opened up a magazine and saw a small picture with an article titled "Puppy Love". Skinny Puppy was a large influence on me as well as the old Wax Trax roster.

Q: When do you see the album 'E' being released?

A: Closer to the end of the year because of the EP and now live tracks that will be released.

Q: How do you see 'E' differing from the two previous albums?

A: X was a "fuck you" album. D was like choking on dirt and after you swallowed it you realized you're still hungry. E will be realigning X and D and putting them together for a clean, hard and simple approach to the album. The album will be very rich with textures while driving and pounding the floor harder than we have in the past. Vocally we are going outside of our "box." I have a feeling this one will be my favorite of the 3.