Kevin Paradis, the talented drummer of the French Metal band Benighted, recently published two videos on YouTube, where he takes part in the auditions to become the new drummer of the technical Death Metal band Archspire. As usual, Paradis impresses with its impeccable technical mastery.
A promising audition for Archspire
Kevin Paradis, just returned from Benighted’s Canadian tour, decided to try his luck with Archspire, who are currently looking for a new drummer following the departure of Spencer Prewett, founding member and emblematic drummer of the group for over 15 years old. On October 7, 2024, Paradis shared its second cover, that of Remote Tumour Seekerone of Archspire’s most complex pieces.
In the description of his video, Paradis explains: “This cover is a little further from my drumming style than AUM, not because of the alternating blast beats, but because of the fills. I tried to find a balance between the elements of Spencer’s game and my own style. I hope you like it.” In addition to these two tracks, Paradis is working on two other titles from the group, which he hopes to release soon.
Also read: “We know our limits”; Max Cavalera says he “wouldn’t dare re-record Chaos AD and Roots”
The decision to take a chance with Archspire
In a message published online, Paradis shares his experience and ambitions: “I just got back from Benighted’s Canadian tour, which was amazing, and decided to try out some Archspire tracks. I learned three songs during the tour and started learning a fourth. Today I recorded AUM and am working on another one behind the drums. I’ll film it later, because I still want to refine some things. I plan to film the four pieces I have in mind. So, three more to come. Do I have a chance? I don’t really think so, but there are only benefits to working on these pieces!”
Alongside his auditions, Paradis remains active professionally, reminding his fans and fellow musicians that he is available for recordings: “If you would like to contact me to record drum parts for you, send an email to [email protected].”
Archspire looking for a new drummer
Spencer Prewett’s departure came as a shock to Archspire fans. After more than 15 years with the group, Prewett leaves a void that is difficult to fill. In a message published in late September 2024, Archspire expressed their gratitude to the drummer, highlighting his major influence on the evolution of technical death metal. “Spencer Prewett raised the bar for drumming in technical death metal,” the group members said.
Despite this loss, Archspire is not giving up and is already preparing its fifth album. Auditions to find a new drummer have begun, with contestants asked to post their performances on YouTube and Instagram with the hashtag #archspireaudition. Kevin Paradis is one of many talented drummers to give it a try, and his videos demonstrate just how ready he is for the challenge.
