We had the good fortune of connecting with Heath Thomas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Heath, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Founding member and guitarist Heath Thomas began playing the guitar at age twelve. At the age of eighteen, he began performing solo in bars, honkytonks, and dancehalls throughout Oklahoma. In 2006, Heath began attending Southeastern University in Durant, Oklahoma, to pursue the music arts and find like-minded musicians. That same year, From the Grave was formed by students who were attending Southeastern and looking to create a unique heavy metal experience. Since 2006, From the Grave’s lyrics have been derived from original poetry, life experience, literature, and film. Currently, From the Grave is recording their third studio offering and honoring their continuing legacy of ingenuity.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
From the Grave’s unique sound over the years has been created by vintage analog equipment from the 1970s and boutique custom amplifers that have been specially fitted for the band’s use. Being a professional musician has never been easy for any of the band members. It requires frequent rehearsals, money, and committed members who have given their time and soul. However, if your heart stays true to your music, the journey is always rewarding.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Throughout the band’s career, they have always been huge supporters of the Deep Ellum nightlife. There are several great venues the band enjoys frequenting and several that are unfortunately gone. On a gig day in Dallas, the band enjoys grabbing food and drinks at The Angry Dog or St. Pete’s Dancing Marlin on Commerce. From the Grave’s most frequented venue for live music is Reno’s Chopshop, and their first choice for live music is Trees.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
From the Grave has found continuing inspiration for their music through other artists, films, books, and personal relationships. The band’s first album, “The Mausoleum,” is a story crafted from true life experiences, such as the loss of a loved one, suicide, and war. That 2013 album is dedicated to all those who helped shape the first record. From the Grave’s 2021 release, Indian Burial Ground was built off a short story, in which the tracks were recorded in a haunted house. The album was heavily influenced by films like Amyitvile Horror, Halloween, Phantasm, Poltergeist, and Fright Night.

Website: http://fromthegraveband.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fromthegrave_official/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fromthegraveband/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/fromthegravemusic

Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/75NstwNLUag7n8tiBCghcp

Image Credits
Zoë Peck

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