Becoming The Archetype is back to pulverize the senses of metal fanatics worldwide and to, as the saying goes, "Bang The Head That Does Not Bang." After two long years on the road promoting their jaw-dropping debut, Terminate Damnation, the Atlanta based progressive death metal band has crafted what will prove to be their defining work: the blistering sophomore album, "The Physics of Fire." Crafted with producer Andres Magnusson (Black Dahlia Murder, The Agony Scene, Scarlet) at the helm, "The Physics of Fire" further explores the band's more progressive side, while delivering all of the ferocity their fans have come to expect. Longtime Aletheian guitarist/ songwriter Alex Kenis has come on board the newly retooled lineup, which re-imagined Becoming The Archetype as a lean and mean four-piece. In addition to his apparent mastery of the guitar, Kenis also brings the element of melodic vocals, an area previously unexplored by the group. Alex's guitar and vocal presence -- together with bassist Jason Wisdom's even more crushing lead vocals, Brent Duckett's fluid and innovative percussion work and the versatile songwriting capabilities of "Count" Seth Hecox on both guitar and keyboard -- elevates Becoming The Archetype above their peers and into the ranks of some of metal's most well-established forefathers. On the heels of Demon Hunter's "Undying" tour and a European jaunt with The Chariot, Becoming The Archetype and their "The Physics of Fire" is set to light the metal world ablaze with its thundering power.

Dennis: Congrats on the release of your sophomore release, The Physics of Fire. Sales were amazing the first week! What was it like turning to Billboard and seeing your band name on the heat seekers chart?
Seth: It was a good thrill to see some fruition of all the work we've been putting into this band.  Sometimes you doubt that things will work out for good, but when it all comes out, it seems to end up alright.

Dennis: There has been some personal change within the band since your first release.  Do you care to fill in everyone on the changes and how it has changed the band being a 4 piece act now?
Seth: Really, there's not as much change as it might seem.  Alex has replaced Jon as lead guitarist and Sean parted ways with us, but the style and songwriting procedure have remained intact and patent BTA.  The live show is quite tight now with us only having what's necessary.  It's just easier to play really together when there's not so many people to orchestrate.

Dennis: There seems to be so much more depth and progression within The Physics of Fire. What do you feel makes this album better?
Seth: Well, personally I feel that the singing vocals that Alex did and the extra keyboard we layered on are the main differences.  Alex has a great voice and we were all pleased with not only the notes he chose to sing but also the style in which he sang those notes.  Aside from being the best lead guitarist I've ever played with, he's a great songwriter and singer to boot!  How's that for an addition?

Dennis:  The debate never seems to end that Christians can't really understand or grasp death metal....how would you like to help end that stereo type on both sides?
Seth: To be honest, while we do get a little bit of questioning and misunderstanding in regards to that, there really hasn't been as much negativity or doubt that we've experienced throughout our entire career.  For the most part we get overwhelming understanding and support from the church and I think it's because the people who listen to us, come to our shows and are involved with us understand us and the people that don't understand simply aren't involved and don't have a voice in this genre.  I'm sure there are plenty of people out there who don't like what we're doing because they can't grasp the concept of Christian death metal, but it's easier for them (and us) to just ignore it instead of asking lots of questions and rebuking.  As far as that stereotype goes, we point people towards a concept of good art.  Christians should make art that can be appreciated and whether or not a particular person understands the art should be irrelevant, so long as it's not morally wrong.  To top that, we have obviously Christian lyrics and if people aren't happy with our lyrics then they're probably not happy with anything and should try being happy for once, then listen to our music. 

Dennis:  In what ways do you hope your Christian faith shows within BTA?
Seth: Mainly we hope it shows in the way we carry ourselves and the way we conduct our actions and attitudes.  Anyone can write Christian-sounding lyrics (ever watch the South Park episode where Cartman starts his Christian band?), but acting in a godly manner night after night, that takes conviction from within and the Holy Spirit has definitely been working in us toward that sort of attitude.

Dennis:  What is the least death metal thing about your personal life...give us something that we can laugh at you for?
Seth: Well, I play piano and sing for another band (Anchors) and for a restaurant.  Think of count Seth sitting at a bar piano belting out Billy Joel and Ben Folds.  Then laugh.  A lot.
Dennis: Well, Seth, rest assured...I am laughing.

Dennis:  So many get saved and that is often where there Christian life stays.  Do you feel that you have grown the past few years as a Christian? If so...what advice would you give to those struggling in their faith?
Seth: Yes indeed I feel I have grown in the past few years.  My personal advice would be to remember that following Christ really is all about Christ and not you.  You're gonna sin, you're gonna falter in your prayer life, you're gonna do someone else wrong.  The great part is that Christ's blood is sufficient to cover that sin and is greater than any evil you can fall into.  Going through a spiritual dry spell has been less than fun for me lately, but it's been a great learning experience to find that my Saviour is always telling me to cast my cares on Him because He cares for me.  I've found that His yoke really is easy and His burden is light.

Dennis: Century Media will be releasing your album in Europe June 18. How has the response been from your fans on the other side of the pond?
Seth: Quite amazing so far.  We had a great tour with The Chariot over there earlier this year and the first album sold decently over there, so I guess there's high expectations for this one and I'm confident they'll understand what we're doing and get behind it.

Dennis:  Who is the greatest band ever?
Seth: Haha!  Are you asking me or the band?  If you're asking the band, it'd probably be a tie between Extol, Living Sacrifice and Death.  If you're asking me, it's The Beatles.  Hands down.