Discern is a solo project that makes a fusion of two styles that it seemed impossible to join: blues and death metal. We talked to Discern´s creator Billy Fraser that explained us his particular philosophy and the way in which he does his music.

Discern may be very well a solo project. At this point in my life, I don't know if I could get the time to get a band going. Also, the main reason that Discern is a solo project is that I can't find members to jam with that think and believe the same things and can play this style. After my old band Oblation broke up, I was like, " I am not going to quite playing because of this, I will be making music no matter what!" The option to stop because of no other members to play with is not an option. Thing is, I treat Discern as a band itself, not my " solo" project. This is what I put my time and effort into.

I guess you could call it that, but then again, that is kind of a weird label to put onto it. Music is music period. I don't single Discern out of any other scene and put myself into a different category than other death bands. Most reviews have been great about the music of Discern. Discern is death metal which sings and preaches Jesus Christ crucified, not pointless religion that man fights over and creates oppressive ideals about. I care enough about my listeners to offer some hope in this disgusting world, which is the peace of the Lord Jesus. That does make me different from others though...ha...ha....

What can you tell me about "Revive and Rebuke"?

" Revive and Rebuke" is the name of the album and focuses on two points. First, the message overall is to revive those listening with the grace and love of Jesus. He loves each one of you and wants to be Lord. The rebuke is to those who call themselves Christians and their actions prove otherwise. You probably have seen them, the TV preachers who beg for your money and preach a gospel of greed and selfishness. I will always be rebuking such nonsense! That is true Biblical Christianity.

Are you composing new material for a new Discern album?

Yes, I have for the most part 9 new songs and I am working hard to get more done so I can start recording the second onslaught.

How do you compose the songs in Discern? Is the approach different than in Oblation?

Yes, in Oblation there was more people to put in ideas and arrangements for songs. Being the only one, you have to be careful and not let every song or idea sound the same.

Usually, I come up with the drum beats first while I have an idea in my head since I am a drummer mainly first and foremost. After I record the drums on my jambox, I play the guitar around it and finish it up from there.

Which are your influences as a composer and as a guitarist?

There is so much to choose from as far as influences. Anything from Suffocation, Razor, Deicide, Death, Napalm Death, Mortician, Vader, Incubus ( the real Incubus from Louisiana that put out the album Beyond the Unknown ), Crimson Thorn, Paramaecium, to Stevie Ray Vaughan, Sonvolt, Buddy Guy, and Trisha Yearwood. Of course not all of these are metal, but so what? I love all types of music, except the popular " Jumpy Core" MTV Rage Against the Korn Bizkit bands.

As a guitarist, my influences would be Kiss and anything else I can learn!

Are you trying to form a band with hired musicians to play Discern material live?

I have been asked that quite often and I would like to see how the new album comes out first.

Does Discern allow you to experiment more than Oblation?

Oblation was more technical and melodic. Discern is much more simpler and straightforward.

One thing that makes the music of Discern different is that I put a little bit of blues here and there. I love blues and have always wanted to do that. While I was in Oblation, I tried to get that done and none of the others agreed to it. The new material has more of that. Most like it, especially people who have listened to it and hate death metal. It is done to be somewhat original.

Is there something more you want to say?

Thank you so much for the interview Frederico!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I appreciate it so much!

Discern cds are only $10 US postpaid. Send cash, money orders or checks payable to:

Billy Fraser / Discern

11408 Audelia Rd. #4778

Dallas, TX 75243

REVIVE AND REBUKE - CD (1999)

ACTUAL LINEUP

Billy Fraser - guitars, bass, drums, vocals

Andrew Albert (guest) - lead guitar