About Nathan P. Holly

Introduction
I was first introduced to the alto saxophone and music in 5th grade. I eventually quit playing the saxophone after 8th grade. Around 1989 I was introduced to a band by the name of Megadeth and the album Rust in Peace. It was that album that really sparked my interest in the guitar. So in ’90 or ’91 I got my first guitar and attempted to learn some Megadeth songs as well as Metallica, Iron Maiden, and eventually Iced Earth and Nevermore. But I grew weary of trying to play by ear or requiring tablature and decided to actually learn how to play the guitar.

During my college tenure I decided to begin teaching myself how to play the guitar. Of course during college there were many distractions so my learning was quite slow. What I did realize was that I wanted to write music. So once I finally graduated college my time was freed up to begin learning and writing. So I began writing and three years later completed The Suffering.

Home Recording
Being from a town where everyone wants to be in a cover band for that instant rock star status, it is very hard to find people to work with. So I began as a solo musician and I continue to write as a solo musician. Time constraints also limit my potential involvement with other musicians. I do have plans to work with at least a drummer on my next project. I just need to find one that’s willing to work for free.

I also record and mix all of my own music. I originally bought a digital recorder just so I could create music but quickly became enveloped in the complete home recording movement. The more I learn about producing and mixing the more I enjoy it. I plan to continue producing and mixing my own projects.

Musical Influences
I grew up listening to classic metal bands Megadeth, Metallica, Iron Maiden, Slayer, Black Sabbath, etc. Natural evolution introduced me to Nevermore, Iced Earth and Blind Guardian. I always seemed to gravitate to the slower more emotional songs which eventually led me to bands that concentrate on just that - dark metal (doom, gothic, etc.). Bands like Novembers Doom, Agalloch, Anathema, and The Gathering have quickly become a mainstay in my current musical rotation. Other bands that tend to be influential to me are Maudlin of the Well, Sigur Ros, Porcupine Tree, and Kayo Dot.

Artist

The artwork for my first two projects was done by myself. The album covers are both pencil drawings which happens to be my strongest medium. Art has always been a passion of mine and in fact was my first choice for continuing education. However, instead of going with my heart, I went with my head and became an engineer. This was the safer route financially and there are days I regret it and days I don’t. Regardless of that I continue to create pencil drawings and dabble in oil painting.