Doomed Confessionary: Barrett Klesko (Degenerator)

Degenerator, Canada’s aggressive sonic titans, unleash a captivating blend of stoner, sludge, grunge, and goth rock.
The relentless musical force hailing from the underground scene in the city of Edmonton, Alberta, emerges from the depths to deliver a spellbinding sound that resonates with fans of Baroness, Type O Negative, The Smashing Pumpkins, Nirvana and Alice In Chains. With their captivating blend of stoner, sludge, grunge, and a touch of doom, Degenerator sets the stage for an immersive journey through explosive moods, progressive time signatures, and hauntingly unusual vocal melodies.
Degenerator’s highly anticipated debut album »The Abyssal Throne« was released on November 24th, 2023.
Can you say a few words about your band?
Degenerator, at its core, is a fusion of ’90s grunge, stoner rock, progressive elements, and alternative metal. It’s the brainchild of Barrett Klesko (All Else Fails, The Secret Places Of The Earth, ex-The Order Of Chaos) and Jonathan Webster (Pass Of Era, ex-Striker, ex-The Order Of Chaos), both seasoned in the realm of heavy music. This project evolved from an experimental phase with saturated fuzz guitars and ethereal soundscapes into something more profound and enigmatic.
What was the biggest challenge for the band last year?
Our journey as a studio-centric band means constantly seeking innovative ways to connect with our audience. The challenge isn’t just about making music; it’s about creating experiences that resonate with our fans in a world where digital noise is overwhelming.
What can you be most proud of last year?
The creation of »The Abyssal Throne« is a testament to our artistic dedication. This album, a labor of love and creativity between Jono and me, stands as the pinnacle of our musical journey. It’s not just an album; it’s an immersive auditory experience that we’re profoundly proud of.
What was your biggest regret?
Reflecting on this year, it’s been a period of intense personal and musical growth. I’ve focused on evolving both as an individual and an artist. In this journey of self-improvement and creative exploration, I find no room for regrets, especially for things beyond my control.
What was the best concert/tour last year and why?
Last year has been an introspective realization – I’ve only attended concerts where I was performing. It’s a strange yet enlightening revelation about my immersion in my musical world.
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
The further erosion of artist monetization on Spotify was a jarring surprise, not due to naivety about corporate greed, but because it seemed inconceivable that compensation for streams could be diminished even further. It’s a stark reminder of the challenges artists face in an industry where the value of creative work is often overshadowed by profit motives. This development didn’t just surprise me; it reinforced the harsh reality of the music business and the ongoing struggle for fair artist compensation.
Where can we see you live this year (concerts/tours)?
While Degenerator isn’t hitting the stage just yet, my primary project, All Else Fails, will be electrifying audiences across Western Canada and Mexico. Keep an eye out for those dates. Meanwhile, Jono is brewing something new and exciting, promising live performances that shouldn’t be missed.
What are your plans for this year as a band? What do you personally, want the most?
The creative wheels are already turning for a follow-up to »The Abyssal Throne«. However, I’m keen on giving this album its deserved time to resonate with listeners. Expect a few more singles, but for now, let this album be your companion.
What are your New Year’s Eve activities like?
A low-key celebration with family is on the cards for New Year’s Eve. Nothing extravagant, just important moments with loved ones.
How can people best support your band?
To truly support us, consider purchasing our album. Streaming is convenient, but it hardly sustains artists. If our music resonates with you, buying it on Bandcamp makes a real difference. Additionally, word-of-mouth is a powerful tool. If you love our sound, share it. It’s a simple yet impactful way to support us.
Do you have any message for your listeners?
To our incredible listeners, your support means the world. If Degenerator’s music speaks to you, we share a bond through our tastes. I’m always eager to connect and hear about your musical journeys. While Degenerator stays away from the social media cesspool, you can reach out to me through the All Else Fails Instagram.
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well