Our planet can’t hold on with our current way of life

Crumble band

Metal music has a force of rebellion that often questions authority, and Crumble completely adheres to this. As "our planet can't hold on with our current way of life", their debut album, We Will Crumble the System, that comes as a reaction to a world that sits on the edge, is a shout against political system and societal decay.

As part of Metal Roots: From Sound to Sustainability, I spoke with the band about music as a tool for change, the role of lyrics in modern metal, and the band's vision for the future. Let’s dive into the music, resistance, and honesty behind Crumble, one of the boldest voices in Cluj-Napoca’s metal underground.

Crumble has made a strong move in the metal scene in the last year, culminating with the launch of your debut album We Will Crumble the System. Can you share a bit about the origins of the band and what inspires your sound and message?

The band started initially as a one man project. At first, I did the majority of the instrumentation, including de lyrics with myself on vocals while the guitar solos where made by a couple of friends who helped me. Now, I’m glad that I joined forces with some of the best and dedicated guys in the scene: Ciprian on the guitars and George on the drums. Personally, what is going on in the world in general and personal aspects that I want to express through music is what inspires me to do this.

How does We Will Crumble the System reflect the band’s perspective on social and political issues and what message do you hope listeners take from its title?

Last year was a total rollercoaster with the presidential elections. There was so much uncertainty going on and we didn’t know what will happen if a certain far-right extremist became the president. We were again at a standpoint where we had to choose between the lesser bad candidate and a far worse one. This was always the issue in Romanian politics. That’s why we suggest with the title of the album that after we provoke a Strike, We Will Crumble the System, burn them all!

You’ve already started touring to promote the above-mentioned album, what’s been the fan reaction to the songs’ lyrics about politics? Has it sparked any memorable conversations?

Not that we know of :). We can’t say that we made a mark on the public with our lyrics, unfortunately. I personally didn’t go to everyone in the public and ask them what they felt about our lyrics. I always yell all the time and have that look in my eyes that I’m ready to kill you :).

How do you see metal music as a tool for raising awareness or even inspiring change?

Music in general is about that. Creating a feeling of something going on in that moment when you hit that play button or the first note the band hits during a gig. In the past people where interested in the lyrics and finding meaning through them. Nowadays, people want to feel the physical impact the music creates in your body without thinking about the meaning behind the notes.

Given Metal Roots’ focus on sustainability, do you see a connection between resisting societal ‘systems’ and promoting eco-conscious practices?

I could say, yes. You can promote pretty much everything through music. From social political matters to beer and partying. From how much I hate everything bad going on in this world to “man, life is good”. You can transmit every message using lyrics and some instruments, you don’t need much. The only thing you need for that message to have an impact is to truly believe in it.

Are there any sustainable approaches you’re experimenting with or interested in exploring in the future?

I want some day to have the time and learn all about reusing everything we throw to the garbage. I keep seeing this dude that reuses all kinds of stuff from vegetables to make your classic Vegeta (the spice east Europeans use for sour soups).

Do you think the metal community is receptive to the idea of sustainable choices? Have you seen this during your shows or does this resonate with you personally or as a band?

We didn’t debate about that and is certainly something we should do in the future. Our planet can’t hold on with our current way of life, that’s for sure. In the world, there are NGOs that promote a better way to improve our environment, I think you can promote that with music or art festivals as well. Also, there are bands that sing about that, for instance, Gojira have some songs debating this matter.

Looking ahead, how do you picture Crumble evolving in terms of message and musical impact?

We want to constantly evolve as a band and to combine all kinds of musical elements. Our message is pretty much clear, we want to describe the world as it is, black or white or shades of grey. How can you hit rock bottom, or how can you rise up from the ashes, better yet, when you know your life is miserable and you can enjoy it like it is.

Thank you for taking the time to share your perspective for Metal Roots: From Sound to Sustainability! Do you want to leave a message here for the metal music community?

Protect the planet as much as you can and support your local artists and underground music. If you are a creative mind, express it by putting your words on paper and into music. Stay safe and stay true!

Crumble live at Rockwave Tavern, Baia Mare, Romania, 2024