Rocked: Interview with OTEP

I was fortunate enough to have been given a contact to Otep herself and her label Victory.  Though we couldn't arrange a phone interview, I was able to send in an email with some questions.  I asked some questions about Hydra, her upcoming graphic novel, her fan base, and much more ALL while not becoming a fan boy and professing my love!  Here's what's going on in Otep's head:
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Alt Rock Live interviews OTEP

1.) Hydra has reached the top ten spot on iTunes best selling Rock albums.  How does it feel to accomplish that?  Did you expect it?
- As I write this we have soared up to #4 and I am absolutely blown away. I never thought my subterranean little “artcore” band would be received this way or be crushing pop bands. I am so grateful and honored to have so many passionate, devoted fans and supporters. Words escape me. It's very meaningful.

2.) You've said that Hydra is based on a graphic novel you've been working on.  Are there certain songs on Hydra that sync up perfectly with the art you created?  Is there any chance we will get to see this graphic novel?
- The entire album is a haiku version of the graphic novel. So yes, it's all there, but the graphic novel will have even more details and information. It will get even more personal and prolific. Yes, I plan on releasing the graphic novel once I have more time to focus on it and complete it properly. 

3.) Was recording Hydra a different process in studio than it usually is with the past albums?  Was there a different feel or presence while you were putting it together?  Did anyone have an influence on what went into creating Hydra?
- The voice in HYDRA was a character composed of the deepest, darkest parts of my subconscious. I retreated back to the feral spirit of our nature. I allowed her to inhabit me, to control my instincts, to be the pilot and navigator. She controlled the journey, she dictated the emotional architecture, she spoke, I wrote. It was a wild experience to be led this way, to see through the eyes of your own mind, to experience the forbidden parts of me. 

4.) Many of the people who have already purchased Hydra are loving the thematic flow. People are saying that it feels like a complete journey. Was it your goal to create that narrative feel from the beginning to the end of the album? 
- Absolutely. It's a concept album, it's cinema of the mind, it's meant to be heard as a whole. 

5.) From a personal point, how do you feel Hydra differs on an artistic and emotional level than your previous albums?
- It was a little terrifying to throw down the walls of morality, to give in to the reptile side of my mind, to think only of feeding personal pleasures, of survival, of destroying the weak and devouring them. I had a passing thought that I must be cautious for fear that this might stain my spirit forever but the album was important, the art was worth it, and I nestled back down into the fire and let it burn.  

6.) You're fan base has talked about (well...begged) for another tour.  As this is the final album, will there be a difference for you at shows as compared to past tours?
- We will be playing many songs from this album. Other than that, the tours will be what they always are ...a total and complete mutiny of the senses. 

7.) Since you've said this will be the final album for Otep, what are the plans for the future?  
- Hydra has just been unleashed. I have so much to focus on right now that thinking of anything else is waste of time. HYDRA deserves all my attention and she is getting it. 

8.) If you could say only one thing to your tribe right now, what would it be?
- Thank you, endlessly, thank you. Remember not to waste your time on bullshit or people who bullshit. We have so little time here, use it wisely, be happy, stay strong, feed well, nourish your mind, conquer everything you can, and never give up.
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I want to thank Otep for taking the time to answer these questions.  Hydra has been doing very well in sales and is getting great reviews.  I would recommend every metal fan to check her out on Otep's final tour with the group as this is her last album.On a side note, this was somewhat possible when she saw my review on YouTube and commented "Thank you." in the comment section.  Here's a screenshot:

You can also check out the review on YouTube here: http://bit.ly/X4Zgs9

The interview will also be posted at altrocklive.com!  Check the site out for that, the Hydra review (in case you don't want to watch it here) and much more!