In a raw and candid conversation, Deicide frontman Glen Benton opens up about the band’s blistering new record Banished by Sin, life during the pandemic, motorcycles, close calls on the road, and what keeps him grounded after decades in death metal.
A Record Born from Isolation and Intention
Banished by Sin isn’t just another Deicide record—according to Benton, it’s the product of unique timing and a renewed creative process. "We knew what we had the second we finished it last year," he says. "The feedback’s been amazing, and we’re just stoked people are digging it."
The record was shaped during the COVID-19 lockdowns, a time that interrupted the band’s planned South American tour. But instead of sitting idle, Benton and bandmate Steve Asheim got to work. “We had nothing else to do,” he says. “We were out of our Sony deal, and we said, ‘Let’s make a record, shop it, and get the deal we really want.’ That’s exactly what happened.”
The Sound of Freedom
With extra time and no looming deadlines, Deicide approached the record differently—taking an old-school approach to the production and writing sessions that felt spontaneous and authentic. “Four guys brought in three songs each, we jammed them out, and I laid down the lyrics,” Benton explains. “It was really organic.”
The Open Road and a Near-Death Experience
Outside the studio, Benton finds his peace on two wheels. “If it’s got two wheels, I’m on it,” he laughs, rattling off a list that includes motorcycles, mountain bikes, and road bikes. But don’t expect him to be crossing state lines anytime soon. “I think my hips are done with long hauls,” he jokes. “Daytona’s a challenge as it is.”
That laid-back vibe might be surprising—until he mentions a life-changing accident. “An old lady made an illegal left turn and took me and my son off my Harley,” he recalls. “The bike flipped six times, parts flew everywhere, and I slid 68 feet with my son on my chest. That’s why I avoid riding in traffic now—too many idiots out there.”
What’s Next on Tour
Fans catching Deicide on tour can expect to hear at least four tracks from Banished by Sin. Songs like “From God,” “Sever the Tongue,” and “Buried Across” are already part of the setlist—and they’re sounding almost identical to the album thanks to the band’s longtime sound engineer, Jeremy.
And then there’s Taylor Nordberg, the newest member, who brings more than just technical skills. “He’s got a professionalism like no other. No baggage, no issues, just a great guy to be around—and he plays from the soul. I’ve never been happier with our guitar situation.”
Why You Won’t See Deicide on a Metal Cruise
As the conversation veers toward festivals and cruises, Benton keeps it blunt: don’t expect to see him on the high seas. “There are some underlying issues there, but I’ll just say this: I doubt I’ll ever play the garbage barge.” That skepticism goes deeper than just logistics. “My second marriage lasted six months—we got married on a cruise ship. So yeah, I lost my sea legs after that kick in the nuts.”
Back to the Roots
When it comes to music, Benton isn’t chasing trends. “I don’t really listen to new metal,” he says. Instead, he sticks to the legends that inspired him in the first place: Sabbath, Deep Purple, Rush. He often listens during long bike rides—10 or 20 miles out and back, with a library of classic rock and metal on his phone.
On the Road Again
Benton says every city has its magic, from the packed venues in major markets to the "bump-in-the-road shows" that bring out die-hard fans. “For me, it’s about how the stage sounds and how the crowd feels. That’s what matters.”
Even Sacramento—with its rolling blackouts and unpredictable energy—left a good impression. “There’s a great crew out there that catered for us. It was a weird day, but a good one.”
Final Thoughts
As for what’s next? "I’ll see everyone in September or October," Benton says with a grin. With Banished by Sin tearing up speakers and stages alike, Deicide's resurrection is anything but subtle—and fans wouldn't have it any other way.
Stay heavy. Support the underground. Long live metal.
Want more? Follow Deicide on [Instagram/Spotify] and catch them live this summer.
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