Bringing A Ritualistic Groove: An Interview with Mike Leon of Soulfly

Mike Leon is a bassist that has been putting the groove in groove metal legends Soulfly since he joined in 2015. He would make his studio debut on the band's 2018 album Ritual. With his finger-style playing and bass pops, he adds a unique element to his playing and sound to the band. With roots in melodic death metal with The Absence, to high-end thrash intensity with Havok, Leon is no stranger to metal and shows off his versatility in his playing. Adding his thundering bass-skills to any project he is involved in.  

I sat down with Mike and we talked about how he joined Soulfly. We talk about his musical career and his time with The Absence and thrash metal band Havok, and how he collaborated with Igorrr on their new album. We also talk about his bass playing and techniques. why he started his own Twitch channel, and we discover the significance of the number eleven. I also try to get the details on his "secret project" he announced on his Instagram.

I want to thank Mike Leon for giving This Day in Metal the time to talk about his career in music. Soulfly is about to embark on a summer European tour in support of the band's most recent album Totem. Following the tour, the band will start a U.S. tour in October, which will include support from Eyehategod and Skinflint. If you want to check out tour dates and see if they are coming to your area, check out the band's website HERE.