Cancer Members Discuss Reunion

Original Cancer members John Walker (vocals, guitar) and Carl Stokes (drums) recently discussed the band’s reunion in a Q&A session with the Metal Reference website’s Lolk (www.metal-reference.com).

Q: What made you plan a reunion?
A: “The seven year itch, coupled with several new songs which we had to air live.”

Q: What can Cancer provide the world with - after 7 seven years of absence?
A: “Pummeling riffs and rhythms held together with strong songs.”

Q: You’re about to issue a new EP. When is it due, and who will release it?
A: “It’s due to be released the same time the band plays gigs in Great Britain in November.”

Q: What made you chose Corporation$ as the title? Anti-capitalistic critics?
A: “Anti anything that thieves money from the less fortunate.”

Q: Are Cancer’s days of gore-infested lyrics gone?
A: “No, maybe. Yes, don’t know!”

Q: I’ve read that Cancer decided to call it a day due to the lacklustre sales of Black Faith. Is that the truth?
A: “No, industry bullshit, and lack of faith from key individuals (not the band).”

Q: In short, could you supply our readers with a short description of the musical point of departure for Cancer anno 2003 compared to those glory-filled days of yore?
A: “We write songs about what we feel is important at the time. Extremity and power goes in many directions.”

Q: Has the current condition of the international death metal scene in any way been significant for your decision to make this comeback on the scene after several years of silence?
A: “Not at all. We feel we have a sound that transcends genre.”

Q: Back in the days, Cancer was one of the primary outfits from England to deliver a solid bash of competition to the US-dominated death metal scene; how do you look upon the stability of the contemporary scene in England as compared to its disposition in the early 90's.
A: “Stop talking in a past tense. CANCER KILLS!!!”

Q: What happened to Barry Savage and Ian Buchanan? Weren’t they invited in this reunion?
A: “Savage lives in Switzerland, we think, and Buchanan is busy doing his own stuff.”

Q: I reckon that Adam was chosen due to Stokes’ involvement with Assert, but how did you find Rob?
A: “Carl played in a band with Rob, and Barney from Napalm Death [Nothing But Contempt].”

Q: “Was the live album Bloodbath In The Acid an official release?
A: “No, but if you can get us a copy, it would be appreciated.”

Q: What are you doing besides Cancer? Day jobs? Other bands?
A: “Both Carl and John have teaching businesses, teaching music (drums, guitar).”

Source: BW&BK