Among rock music's most intriguing frontmen, Creeper architect, now William Von Gould, serves as a viable double threat. For those that have experienced his prowess onstage, his ability to connect in terms of performance and his flair for theatrics asserts his rank among an elite tier.
Additionally, the consummate showman understands the importance of being able to best articulate himself. In fact, Gould's distinct gift of gab suggests just how and why his art is so well developed - so poignantly conceived. Gould's ability to code, communicate and convey his ideas affords a unique skill set that makes him primed to stardom while steering clear of the contrived contrived.
Recently guesting with Knotfest.com correspondent Amelia Clarke, the voice and visionary at the core of Creeper shared some valuable insights about what he priorities creatively, the influences that have left a lasting mark and the overarching vision for his latest studio opus, Sanguivore.
Given Gould's knack for narrative in music, it makes sense that he always appreciated the chameleon like quality of the iconic David Bowie. Gould would explain that his vision for Creeper, even during its inception, was to create a kind of musical anthology that would allow each album to function as it's own entry. The idea was to ensure that the band would never have to chase the same sound and could evolve, explore and experiment with each record - while still maintaining the core integrity of Creeper.
As for the current iteration of the band, Gould shared that his latest foray into teenage vampire love in Sanguivore sourced some of it's aesthetic from 80's horror staples like 1987's Near Dark and the era-defining The Lost Boys. In terms of Sanguivore's thematic weight, Gould cited essentials like Interview With the Vampire and Let the Right One In as references in cultivating the character of Mercy and her surrounding universe that comes to life on the album.
A reoccurring theme that seemed to surface in the conversation is Gould's affinity for the classics. In explaining the evolution of Sanguivore's cover art, he referenced definitive album art with records like Rumours from Fleetwood Mac and Bat Outta Hell from Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman. When it came to revealing his favorite genre films, anchors like Bram Stoker's Dracula and Brian De Palma's Phantom of the Paradise quickly came to mind.
It's that appreciation for the kind of art that stands the test of time that ultimately navigates Gould such that in nearly a decade as Creeper, the band has only released three albums. Placing an emphasis on quality over quantity, Gould's approach is an uncompromising one and given his pedigree and his output - Creeper continues to prove well worth the wait.
Stream the complete interview with Amelia Clarke and William Von Gould of Creeper below.
Creeper begins their Sacred Blasphemy Tour next week with a weeklong UK run with save face and The Nightmares. A current list of live dates and cities can be found below. Get tickets - HERE
