Does the thought of downtuned polyrhythm of Meshuggah with the trance-like progressive metal of Devin Townsend intrigue you? Well, think no longer, because that record already exists, it’s called ‘At the Dream's Edge’, and it’s the first album by Chimp Spanner, just one man, a home studio, and awful lot of genius. Soundshock went to find out more...
First of all, who does what in your band?
Chimp Spanner is a one man project, so it’s just me doing everything! Thankfully not at the same time...
Where are you from?
I’ve lived in Essex most of my life, but originally Watford. Always England though!
How long you been Chimp Spanner – have you played in other bands before this?
Well, the project started in about 2002. I haven’t been in any bands or anything like that. If and when Chimp Spanner gets taken live on a regular basis, then I guess that’ll be the first!
Who are your main inspirations for Chimp Spanner?
There are the obvious ones such as Meshuggah, Strapping Young Lad, Fear Factory. But I would also include stuff like Vangelis, Return to Forever, Mezzoforte, Brian Eno, Jan Hammer…it’s a curious blend!
What do you think makes Chimp Spanner stand out?
Well I guess the marriage of influences is a big one. A lot of the orders and feedback I’ve had have been from people who might not necessarily like modern metal, or fall into the usual demographic, but hear something familiar in there that they can key into. I like metal, and the album happens to have metal overtones but more over it’s just an album of…music! If that makes sense?
How would you feel about being called “Essex’s answer to Devin Townsend”?
Absolutely flattered! Devin Townsend is a massive influence, specifically his production. So to be mentioned in the same breath is pretty cool!
What started you on the use of extended-range guitars?
I originally played a baritone six-string guitar, maybe for around a year. My dad was getting angry at me constantly detuning his regular six...but it wasn’t long after I had the baritone that I realized I missed the higher range too. And that was that really...dove straight into seven strings. Didn’t even try one out, just bought it on eBay and hoped for the best. After about a day, I was in love!
Have you thought about getting a band together and doing some live shows?
Yeah a lot of it is going to come down to how Euroblast goes in October. I mean, I don’t doubt it will go well! But I’ll soon know if it’s something I have a real yearning for. But I know a lot of great musicians that would be happy to help if I did go that way. And it would put a whole new slant on the music.
How’s the positive reception to ‘At The Dream's Edge’ felt?
Fantastic! I’m especially happy that the instrumental nature of the album hasn’t been to its detriment. Not like instrumental music is a crazy new thing, of course! But it’s hard to push in metal circles unless you’re well established. I guess Animals As Leaders can take a good deal of credit in re-acclimatizing people to instrumental rock/metal.
What’s next for Chimp Spanner?
The most important thing for me is to keep developing as a writer, player and producer. I’m happy with ‘At the Dream’s Edge’, but I know I have a long way to go. I’m sure the live element will come into play, and while I can’t say too much there might be some interesting collaborations going on that will definitely help further the Chimp Spanner name! But most of all I just want to get back into writing and put out stuff that people enjoy.
Finally, is there anyone you want to thank?
A massive thank you to everyone who has supported me and bought the album from iTunes, Amazon, or from my website. The countless people who put up with my works-in-progress for the 5 years I kept them waiting! Basick Records and Hold Tight! PR for getting the album some seriously cool coverage. And of course my folks for being fully behind this crazy project of mine. Check out the Spanner at his personal website http://www.chimpspanner.com/, or at www.myspace.com/chimpspanner. Want to get your band into Breaking The Waves? Then email
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with your details. Must have at least 3 tracks of studio worthy material! Interviewed bySteve Jones
Breaking The Waves 
in there that they can key into. I like metal, and the album happens to have metal overtones but more over it’s just an album of…music! If that makes sense?
Finally, is there anyone you want to thank?