Mark Pascall best known as vocalist with Departed and Kingdom Of Madness expands on his singing career and what the future holds with regard to new music and live gigs.
Who were your influences in the early days and have you always wanted to be a singer?
In the early days I had many influences due to the music I was exposed to by my family. I regularly listened to a variation of great singers, including such greats as Paul Rodgers, Ian Gillan, Tina Turner, Otis Redding, Andrew Strong, Kelly Jones, Myles Kennedy and Brandon Boyd.
Have you ever auditioned for the vocal spot in any notable bands?
In recent years I’ve fronted Cats In Space and Kingdom of Madness, both of these had an audition process as such and the rest is history. I also did have chats with the Phil Campbell guys too but they found someone who is much better suited to their sound.
Do you still get the same buzz out of singing live as you did in the past?
I really do love the connection with the audience when they sing along to the band, there’s nothing else like it. Performing live always creates many special moments and I look forward to more in the near future.
Some vocalists are on strict dietary regimes or gargle with special liquids. How have you kept your voice in tip top shape all these years?
Is it in tip top shape?! For me it’s about being sensible in general. No late nights or partying before shows and I make sure I warm up. If I’m struggling I will use a steamer I have and I’ll probably overdose on honey and lemon.
Are there any musicians that you have not worked with, but would like to in the future?
No one in particular comes to mind but I’m always open to offers/suggestions.
Was it an easy decision to join Kingdom Of Madness when the band only play old Magnum songs?
Kingdom of Madness was more about the opportunity to work with some amazing musicians who have a vast amount of experience. Magnum have many great songs and it’s been a joy bringing some new life to the tracks, as well as meeting so many lovely Magnum fans. Magnum don’t perform a lot of these songs anymore, so a lot of the fans enjoy hearing them.
Is there any likelihood of new music from yourself with Departed?
I’m excited to say that yes there is the likelihood of new music from Departed, it’s just the case of everything coming together. So please watch this space.
Do you have any plans to release a solo album?
I keep toying with the idea, but to be honest, I always lack the confidence in myself to do it.
I convince myself that no one would care or listen. I’m getting a lot closer to doing something more for myself and therefore reducing that pressure. Maybe one day I’ll get on with it. I’m writing bits and pieces all the time but past experiences with certain bands has knocked my confidence in this field.
When not touring what do you do in your downtime?
I spend as much time with my family as possible alongside training in martial arts and surfing when possible. I try to be as active as possible and this goes hand in hand with maintaining fitness for singing and performing. It’s hard work singing some of the big songs so I need to stay fit and healthy.
Have you thought of producing any other bands?
I think this would be quite enjoyable but again, I don’t believe in myself enough to do it.
I’d be more than happy to advise where possible. I endeavour to help friends and other musicians along the way if they need any help.
Do you have anything in the pipeline at the moment that you would like to share?
I can’t wait for some Departed shows this August, where we will be opening for my good friend Myke Gray’s Skin.
Interview by Stuart Dryden
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