1. How did you first get into metal music, and what was the first band or album that hooked you?

My first real full-immersion was an all-metal CD a friend made for a road trip I was taking. I think the first track was “War Pigs.” I’d heard the occasional random metal track before, but the experience of late-night driving and being totally immersed in metal intentionally like that really was my hook.

2. What was the most memorable concert you’ve ever attended, and why did it stand out?

That’s tough!!! I’ve been so lucky to get to go to shows pretty regularly. Houston is a great city for metal. I’m a huge Ghost fan, so seeing them was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. The showmanship, the energy of the crowd, and I had a great costume! I get that it’s arguable as to how metal they are, but in my book they are totally metal.

I got to see Conjurer (UK) and it stands out because they weren’t the headliner and I’d never really experienced them before. It was one of those moments where everything hit right and the music took me over. I love those kinds of surprises and discovering new favorite bands that way.

3. What’s your favorite metal-related memory, whether it’s a concert, meeting a band member, or something else entirely?

I think one of my favorite things about being a metal fan and going to shows and being active on socials is meeting other fans and talking about their experiences and preferences. It’s a great starting point for getting to meet and talk to new people from all over the world. I also really loved seeing Sunn O))). It was so overwhelming and I absolutely didn’t expect the impact that it would have on me. Listening to the record does nothing to compare to the awesomeness of experiencing them live.

I can’t not mention Hell’s Heroes. Such an amazing festival, so much variety, and it’s so worth going every year! You are bound to come away with some amazing sets!

4. Do you have a favorite metal subgenre? If so, what draws you to it?

I’d have to say Doom. As I said, Sabbath was my first real hook, and they paved the way. Doom has a lot of great subgenres to explore, whether it’s Stoner Doom like Sleep and OM, or Drone like Earth and Sunn O))), or retro flavored bands that capture an old school feeling. I love the imagery – Doom has the best goats and the best witchy vibes.

5. What’s your go-to metal anthem when you need a boost of energy?

“Walk” by Pantera always gets my attention. “A Cautionary Tale” by Sabbat is great for that early thrash energy. And I couldn’t leave off Motörhead for making me feel like a speed freak!

6. If you could attend any metal concert from any era, which one would it be and why?

The ’71 Black Sabbath tour for Master of Reality for sure. Seeing the band at this point in their careers would be completely epic!! Or maybe a Killers era Maiden show…?

7. How has being a female metal fan shaped your experience within the metal community?

I feel like when it comes to the metal community I’ve experienced, on socials and here locally, being a metal fan is an equalizer. It puts everyone on the same level. It’s rare I’ve had to be conscious of my gender when I’m at a show or talking to other fans. Maybe I’ve been lucky, but metalheads are some of the most chill, accommodating people you can meet.

8. Have you ever met any of your metal idols? If so, what was that experience like?

At my first Hell’s Heroes I started a battle “bag” and one of the first patches I bought, I bought from Trevor Church of Haunt and Beastmaker. I love those bands so chatting with him was awesome.

I’ve really enjoyed getting to know local bands. Going to local shows starts to feel like going to hang out with friends where there’s also music playing. So that’s a really great feeling!!

9. What’s a metal album you think every fan should listen to at least once in their life?

Yeah, one won’t cover it. Lol

Sabbat – History of a Time to Come
deadhorse – Peaceful Death and Pretty Flowers
Candlemass – Epicus Doomicus Metallicus

10. If you could be on the cover of any band’s album which band would it be?

I think it’d be awesome to do something like Mephistofeles or Electric Wizard. They both have a retro kinky satanic ritual vibe I love. I had fun featuring their albums already, so being on the cover is a logical next step.

11. Outside of metal what are some of your other hobbies/interests?

I play piano, to flex my own musical muscles, and every so often I’ll throw a reel onto Instagram showing off. Speaking of Instagram, it is the easiest place to follow me and catch my crazy album sets. I’m a big reader. I really love to read mysteries. I can get completely lost in a book and then realize it’s 3 am and I have to be up in 2 hours, but it’s totally worth it!

I like taking shelter dogs out on doggy day outs. Exploring the city and getting to spoil and socialize dogs that are waiting for their forever families.

Most of all I love spending time with my family and friends. Discovering new fun hangouts and food spots, and just enjoying being together.

12. Thank you for being our Metal Maiden of the Month!! (if there is anything you want to add please do)

Thank you so much! I’m passionate about spreading the word about local bands, as well as celebrating the greats. Please check out my Instagram where I try and showcase great records and bands across all genres, but with special attention to metal. Thanks for reading!