Howie recently had a chance to talk to Justin Williams, singer and songwriter for the band Dark Capricorn Rising. Here’s how it went.
Full Access Detroit – The first thing that I have to ask because I’m always curious about this kind of thing. The name Dark Capricorn Rising, where did that come from, does it have a specific meaning ?
Justin Williams – I’m a Capricorn (Jan 5) and I have experienced certain “dark times” throughout life (as has everyone). The name represents my “emotional resurrection,” as well as the band’s. “We have risen from the Darkness and we are ascending into the heavens!”
FAD – Give us a brief history about the band and its members. Past bands anyone was in, what genre would you put yourselves in etc.?
JW – We are Dark Heavy “Power Rock!” Think a combination of Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin – then multiply that by infinity! We formed in 2018. I was doing a solo project and Rick Young was producing me. I was blown away by his high level of quality in his productions and his “shredding” on guitar. He is at the top of the industry in both cases. He and I formed a great chemistry with similar likes in music. We formed “DCR” and invited Rock Di lacovo, who is a top-level veteran drummer. A great chemistry was formed between us instantly both artistically as well as personality-wise. We’ve been “bangin’ it” ever since: 1 CD: In the Force of the Blast 1 EP: Equinox 6 singles with our most recent hit “Long Time Gone” which is burning up the charts. We’re available on Spotify. That’s our home base but we’re on a ton of others as well. The “Triumvirate!” Rocky Di lacovo – drums – “Bonham-like” sound and technique – “Monstrous!”
Was in several Detroit area bands. Rick Young – Producer, songwriter and guitar. He was formerly in the Detroit-area Phenom band – Teezer, who once opened up for Steppenwolf. Rick has been a nationally acclaimed producer and has owned and operated “Talent Live Studios” in
Canton, Michigan, for years. He has produced top-level acts such as Rare Earth, Aretha, Stevie Wonder, Van Halen and numerous others. Please see link at the bottom of the article.
FAD – What one person or band is the biggest musical influence to you?
JW – Black Sabbath – they started it all with their Darkness and critical lyrics of society’s injustices and hypocrisy.
FAD – Looking back at how the local music scene was back in the 80’s and 90’s, what are some of the biggest differences you see today?
JW – We really don’t have any opinion on the topic. We don’t know everything – we just act likewe do!
FAD – What is the biggest message or messages that you want to get out there with the band’s
music ?
JW – We will convery the truth about many issues in life. We will do it with supreme artistry,
professionalism and quality.
FAD – I heard something about like 7 or 8 cats between the band members, I take it that you all are big cat people? Why cat’s versus dogs? I ask because it seems most people are either cat OR dog people. Usually not both. Lol
JW – Hilarious! We love cats! They are so awesome in so many ways. They always have a plan! They know exactly what they want and how to get it! They are “rascals!” But they are also so loving and gentle. Often, while writing a song my kitty “Chelsea” will jump up on the desk and lay right on the keyboard so we can snuggle. I love her so much. And then she sticks her damn “kitty butt” in my face! Rick has 3 cats at his studio who he loves and protects. He also has one at home – “Spotty.” She chose Rick as her BFF and you NEVER question a cat’s decision. Rocky has 2 cats who he can’t stop talking about (and rightfully so!). I can see why the Egyptians worshipped cats. Cats are far superior to humans.
FAD – Any big things coming up for the band that you’d like to share with everyone?
JW – We have a couple songs in the “vault” that will be released within the next 2 months. But right now our latest hit “Long Time Gone” is killing it!
FAD – What is the one thing you’d like to achieve with the band before it’s all said and done?
JW – We want to claim our rightful place as the “World’s Greatest Heavy Rock Band!” Egotistical? Perhaps…
FAD – If you could pick any national band to go on tour with, who would it be and why?
JW – Black Sabbath – They gave birth to the whole genre. They challenged many long-held beliefs. They are the “Ultimate Warriors!”
FAD – 10) If someone asked you why they should get your music and go out and check out your band, what would be the most important thing that you’d want them to know about the band and the music?
JW – I would tell them: “You’ve never heard a band like Dark Capricorn Rising before – and you never will again! Our production, Rick’s “shredding”, Rock’s “Nuclear Drumming”, our heavy lyrics and music will capture you and you will never escape – but then again, you won’t want to.
We would like to thank Howie Herula and Full Access Detroit for giving us the opportunity to introduce ourselves to the World! “We Shall Take the World by Force!” And finally, we would just like to say “MEOW!