Email interview with Adam Tanbouz, guitarist for He Is Legend
February 12, 2007

“Odd, intriguing and dangerous with a hint of sexy…” is how Schuylar Croom describes the name and nature of his new album, "Suck Out The Poison." He and cohorts Steve Bache, McKenzie Bell, Adam Tanhouz and Matt Williams – known as He Is Legend – have been “running with lies” for some time now. Croom is able to spin these so-called “lies” into the intricate stories that comprise this sophomore album. Akin to a collection of Fairy Tales, with titles like “Attack of the Dungeon Witch,” “The Widow of Magnolia” and “Goldie’s Torn Locks,” the songs on "Suck Out The Poison" paint fanciful pictures and children of all ages will come to believe Croom’s Southern-Fried tall tales.

Dennis: Where did you come up with the name He is Legend?
Adam: The band name came from an article title in 'Rue Morgue' magazine.

Dennis: There was such a transition from your debut album to your latest release, Suck Out the Poison. What led to such a dramatic change in style?
Adam: To be honest I don't think the style was that dramatically changed, there are still running similarities style wise to our past records. I think there are seasons to our band, and so there is a gradual shifting, growing, progressive process, but its not like we started playing bossa nova...we're still a rock band, with guitars, drums, bass and vocals.

Dennis: Many people try to wear masks of who people expect them to be. I think all of us deal with this often. Have you felt pressured as a band to be something you are not and what is your advice to fans dealing with issues of masks?
Adam: I think everyone in life deals with this, the pressure on our band to be something different would be external, mostly from fans, or the industry that exists, as far as advice goes, I wish I had some virtuous words to offer, but I can barely find the answers for myself.

Dennis: It seems there was almost controversy over the fact you are or aren't a 'Christian' band. I'm not a fan of labels as such but I do believe that your personal beliefs will come out in your life and music. How do you feel that your faith or lack of faith at times comes out as a band?
Adam: I think we have faith in a lot of things, and a lack of faith in a lot of  things, whether they be the weather or restaurant service or a certain brand of tire or God or Pantera or sports or medicine or drugs or music. I'd say our faith or lack of faith is dependent on each person in the band. As to how it affects things, I'd say it affects everything and nothing all at once, truly.

Dennis: What artists have you been inspired by lately?
Adam: I'm sure this question would differ from member to member, but as for me, I suppose my friend Alex and Frederik Thordendal and always Dimebag.

Dennis: Recently Century Media has released your album in Europe.  Any words on what label you will be leaning with on your next release?
Adam: I think Solid State still...Europe is different.

Dennis: In a few weeks you will be hitting the road with some big name bands; Dragonforce, Chimaira and Killswitch Engage.  What do you look forward the most about the upcoming tour?
Adam: Mostly, playing guitar and making a little bit of money.