One hot minute with Arch Enemy's Angela Gossow

MANILA, Philippines - Tonight at 8, heavy metal fans are in for a wild night as melodic death metal band from Sweden, Arch Enemy will perform at the World Trade Center, Pasay City. For those of you who listen to their music and know the band by heart, certainly you know who Angela Gossow is. She’s not only the frontwoman for this heavy metal super group, but she’s also one hell of a superwoman — but instead of a cape and tight suit, Angela has spikes, leather, and a lot of talent and attitude. But despite her dangerous girl power persona, Angela is an animal-loving vegan extremely focused on her health, career, and everything else she finds important in her life.

Coinciding with the band’s current tour in Asia, they also just released their eighth studio album, The Root of All Evil, which contains selected re-recorded songs from their first three records. In this new album, old songs in which the vocals executed by former Arch Enemy frontman Johan Liiva are given a whole new perspective and a lot of boost with Gossow’s no nonsense angst-driven vocal performance.

How did you come to the conclusion that a re-release of old Arch Enemy songs was in the band’s best interest?

Angela: Our fans asked for it many, many times. Some are curious to hear the first three albums with Arch Enemy’s line up as it is now and some want us to bring those tracks back into the live setlist. And what the fans want is always in the band’s best interest.

What keeps you going on long tours?

The will to want to go out there and play live. That doesn’t ever die.

Can you describe the feeling of being on stage performing for hundreds of screaming fans?

It is very exciting and satisfying. It’s wonderful to see how our music unifies us with so many other people.

What is your opinion on the supposed “end of the world” in 2012?

Oh. That is in less than three years. Better start living now! Live your dream, don’t dream about living. Other than that, I am not scared.

How does the brotherly dynamic between the two Amotts (referring to guitarists Michael Amott and Christ Amott) affect the band?

It’s cool. No fighting. They are more like good friends.

Can you describe a strange incident that happened on while on tour?

Everything is strange on tour. You can watch people and they are sometimes crazier than zoo animals.

Do sports have a part in your life?

Of course. A strong mind lives in a strong body. I work out every day and go running several times a week.

How often does the band see each other when not touring or actively writing songs?

Couple of days every week. We are a tight unit and rehearse very often.

What is the meaning behind the red armbands? How does it relate to you as musicians and your message to the world?

We are this secret revolutionary entity, ha ha. We introduced them in the video Revolution Begins.

What sort of emotions do you feel when a song is created?

Excitement and joy.

How do you deal with male fans that refuse to stop hitting on you? What’s the worst that’s ever happened in that vein?

Nobody dares to “hit on me.” I am not a person you can victimize that way.

What inspires you?

Aggression. People’s vices make me very, very angry.

When you’re touring, how do you find time for yourself?

I just withdraw. We are very good at leaving each other alone and making space for that person.

Cats, dogs, or hatred of all animals: Pick one.

I love all animals in the wilderness. This is why I am a vegetarian. I don’t like pets though. They should all be outside where they belong.

Any particular reason you’re a vegetarian?

Eating meat is cruel. In the year 2009, no creature needs to be slaughtered anymore. We got plenty of foods to supplement for meat. It is also a big environmental problem — the mass production of cattle.

If you were to be stranded on a deserted island alone for years, but had the option of taking along one band member with you (and he has no choice but to come along), who would be the lucky one?

Sharlee (bassist). He is very funny and has no kids he would leave behind.

See Angela perform with her band Arch Enemy composed of Michael Amott and Chris Amott on guitars, Sharlee D’Angelo on bass, and Daniel Erlandsson on drums, at the World Trade Center tonight. The event is produced by Pulp Magazine and presented by JB Music, Draven, Water Plus, and Jim Beam. The one-night only concert also features local heavy metal acts such as Intolerant, Mortal Fear, Bloodshedd, and Badburn. Tickets priced at P1,500 for VIP and P600 for general admission are available at selected Odyssey outlets, JB Music Stores, Merriam and Webster Bookstores, and Ticketnet.