Photo: Alexandra Crockett
Q: What was your motivation to create a book of photographs of metal musicians and their cats?
A: The main motivation was just that I saw a lot of people in the metal scene having cats, and noticed that it was a pretty interesting juxtaposition between metal guys, who are assumed to be brutal, serious and intense or scary people...and then cats who are assumed to be sweet and silly. I found that it was more the other way around, really.???
Q: What has the reaction you have received about the book been like?
A: The reaction from the start was that of excitement. I got a lot of "dude this is gonna get big!" and I just kept saying... "no way. It's just a fun project for me and those I know in the scene."...and then it blew up. I had no idea that would happen.
Q: Who was the most interesting person you met through photographing them for the book?
A: The most interesting person I met through photographing....Hmm..that's a really difficult question. I've made some great friends through my book, and have experienced people knowing who I am prior to ever meeting me through it, so that's been kind of a trip. I haven't really had the idea that some of my subjects were more interesting than others though, I felt good about meeting everybody I photographed.
Q: What metal act have you been listening to lately?
A: Honestly, since I've been in grad school (I'm in a doctoral program currently, and finally about to be done at the end of 2016 or so), I haven't really listened to much music "for fun" or enjoyment. I have to really focus with my 65-80 hour work weeks, and that requires music that lets me zone in to writing and reading. However, the few times I do get to enjoy some music it's usually friends' bands, like Impetuous Ritual and OVVL, or something classic like Celtic Frost or Mercyful Fate.
Q: Do you have cats? If so: a.) Do your cats like metal? b.) What are their favorite bands? c.) What music do they hate?
A: I had cats up until 3 years ago when my cute little feral baby got eaten by a coyote...However, I do have to say that a.) I'm pretty sure cats hate all music and b.) they're favorite bands are ones that don't make any sound at all, except maybe a treat bag shaking and c.) everything
Q: Should we expect any other metal animals in the future?
A: I'm strongly considering doing two new photography books coming up. I'd like to do one that includes women, although I am unsure if it will be related to pets at this time...and I'm also really interested in doing a project with rappers that I feel I should keep secret until I begin it...cause it's too funny and I don't want to ruin it for myself. Sorry.
To purchase Metal Cats: http://www.goldenkittenpyramid.bigcartel.com
