MISS MAY I Discusses Upcoming Album and Band Changes
In a recent conversation on the Vulgar Display Of Podcast, Levi Benton, lead vocalist of MISS MAY I, shared insights into the band’s forthcoming album, which follows their 2022 release “Curse Of Existence.” Benton explained, “We’ve spent two years working on this album due to our busy schedules and the new lineup. We’re ensuring it’s perfect, so it’s taking time. I have five more vocal tracks to complete, which I’ll finish in the coming weeks. The album isn’t finalized yet, so we don’t have a release date. However, we have singles and artwork ready, and we’ll start releasing them without a set end date.”
Benton added, “This project is an experiment for us, and we believe our fans will enjoy it. We’re not taking the usual approach of pre-orders and music videos. Instead, we’re focusing on making each song unique. Our new single, ‘Pray For Silence,’ is the album’s lightest track, essentially its ballad.”
Lineup Changes and New Dynamics
With the departure of founding guitarists B.J. Stead and Justin Aufdemkampe in 2024, guitarist Elisha Mullins joined the band. Benton commented on the transition while working on “Pray For Silence”: “The lineup change was challenging since we didn’t want to lose the original members. Elisha, who initially filled in, amazed us in the studio. Working with him was a new experience since we’ve been with the original lineup since high school. Without B.J. and Justin, who usually started songs, we had to adapt. Elisha brought fresh perspectives, and although we’re now a four-piece, we explored new soundscapes instead of just playing rhythm guitar. This experimentation is evident in ‘Pray For Silence’ and continues throughout the album.”
Benton also mentioned Nick Sampson, a key collaborator since their second album, who has helped maintain consistency. “Nick, based in Michigan, has been instrumental since our second album. He guides us on what aligns with our style, ensuring consistency,” Benton noted.
Partnership with Solid State Records
Last year, MISS MAY I joined Solid State Records and re-released “Apologies Are For The Weak (Re-Recorded 15th Anniversary Edition),” featuring guest appearances from Jake Luhrs of AUGUST BURNS RED, Brandan Schieppati of BLEEDING THROUGH, and Scott Lewis of CARNIFEX. Discussing their relationship with Solid State, Benton said, “It’s incredible. We now work on our own timeline, not just meeting deadlines. Solid State supports our approach, allowing us to perfect our work. This album is a pivotal moment for us.”
Upon its release in August, “Pray For Silence” was described as a “vocally dynamic anthem with a catchy chorus, heavy riffs, and powerful breakdowns, showcasing classic metalcore with modern elements.”
In an interview with Rolling Stone Australia, Benton praised Mullins’ contribution: “Elisha brings a producer’s perspective, offering new elements we’ve never explored before. He’s a perfect fit, sharing our Midwest roots and musical influences.”
Reflecting on creating new material without their main songwriters, Benton said, “Initially, we didn’t realize the impact. In the studio, we recognized the absence of Justin and B.J., which prompted us to rethink our approach. We spent a month with Elisha working on one song to establish our new creative process.”
Image credit: Rock & Metal From The Front Row
