We recently had a chance to sit down with Mark McKowen, drummer and Orchestrator fro Divine Martyr, a christian prog symphonic metal band based in Indiana.
Divine Martyr is a symphonic metal band with a progressive twist, drawing influences from bands like Nightwish, Camelot, Symphony X, and Dream Theater. The band was informally started in 2016 when Woody Hughes (bassist) reached out to the drummer. Over the next year, they built a working band, incorporating a faith-based, gospel-driven message with a mission to offer encouragement and hope, particularly to those struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues.
The band went through several lineup changes before settling on its current members: Woody Hughes on bass, Jason Hyde on guitars, Olivia Guetle on vocals and cello, and the drummer and Orchestrator, Mark McKowen. The addition of Olivia, a classically trained musician with a master’s in music, helped solidify their unique sound. Divine Martyr uses orchestration elements to blend their metal influences with a symphonic edge, which sets them apart from other bands in the genre.
Despite the complexities of life and work, the band members, including engineers and professionals in fields like nursing and IT, continue to create music. They record songs in stages to avoid fatigue and ensure quality, working toward releasing singles and eventually a full album. This approach, alongside their intricate orchestration and layered compositions, reflects the members' dedication to crafting thoughtful and inspiring music.
It sounds like you've taken a fascinating path in music, blending your background in orchestral composition with rock and faith-based music. Starting with a music composition degree and honing your skills in orchestration is impressive. Your journey from being an orchestral writer as a student to applying those intricate layers to your band's music truly highlights your passion and versatility. Using tools like Finale and Miroslav Philharmonic for orchestration adds an immersive, cinematic element to your sound, reminiscent of epic film scores. The Rush-inspired use of MIDI triggering and sound libraries, combined with your detailed arrangement of violin, viola, and brass sections, is remarkable.
When it comes to your song "Absolution," it’s fascinating how your faith and musical inspirations intersect. Lyrically, it captures themes of forgiveness, gratitude, and faith, while musically, it nods to Nightwish’s "Imaginarium" era, creating a beautiful blend of orchestration and metal. It’s clear how much thought and depth go into your music, from the writing process to the final orchestration and performance.
Your live performances sound equally captivating, with backing tracks complementing the orchestration, giving the audience a full, cinematic experience. It’s refreshing to hear how you engage with your fans at shows, especially by encouraging them to connect with you at the merch table instead of just offering an altar call. This personal approach allows for deeper conversations and connections.
Given the post-COVID challenges of lower turnout at shows, your data-driven approach to booking venues is insightful. By closely analyzing follower stats and turnout percentages, you’re strategically planning where to perform, ensuring venues can sustain their business while you expand your reach.
I’d love to hear how you’re balancing all these moving parts—musically and business-wise—especially as you continue to grow your following.
It sounds like your band's mission to reach people outside the traditional church setting is really powerful, focusing on planting seeds of faith wherever you go. That story about helping someone struggling with addiction during your tour is inspiring. It really captures how you see music and outreach as intertwined, with your band serving as a bridge for others to encounter deeper spiritual support.
"Our mission is to go, and if nothing else, what we always say: we're the seed planter band. We’re just going to plant the seeds. Somebody else will water, and God is going to give the increase. We're just out there trying to get the seeds planted, and if nothing else, if someone has never heard of Jesus before—especially the real Jesus, not the pop culture version—we're going to plant the seeds that they are loved, that Jesus loves them, and to give it another day. That’s all we’re about: planting those seeds.
Sometimes, it’s a first-time encounter. Another band will come along and take it from there. For us, it’s about making sure the ground is ready, and we can’t do that if we’re just playing at the same church over and over. God’s work is about getting out there, showing love, and spreading that message to those who need it most."
Mid-South Music Mag would like to thank Mark for taking the time to speak with us!
Divine Martyr are:
Woody Hughes - Bass
Mark McKowen - Drums, Orchestration
Jason Hyde - guitars, vocals
Olivia Guetle - Lead Vocals, Cello
Check out more from Divine Martyr on all thier Socials and Website
Be sure to check out their YouTube Channel for more music!
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