Somewhere in between Bay Area crust and Norwegian death metal, Lord Mantis has been making a name for themselves in Chicago. With members from Indian, Avichi, and Nachtmystium forming a majority of the band, the group is set to release Spawning the Nephilim through Seventh Rule Records at the end of April. Bassist and vocalist Charlie Fell gave us the dope on the band’s hometown.

1. What’s your town’s nickname?
The Windy City.
2. What’s your nickname for your town?
Bonerton, because it is full of boners.
3. Why do you live there?
It’s where the rest of my band lives.
4. What is your favorite local attraction (monument, park, etc)?
The Car Kebob in Berwyn. It’s a bunch of cars skewered on a steel rod.
5. What is your favorite local event/festival?
Chicago Naked Bike Ride.
6. What is the best time of year to be there?
Dead of winter.

7. Who is your favorite local celebrity/personality?
R. Kelly.

8. Where is the best place to drink and what’s their specialty or happy hour?
Mutiny. Over priced beer and smells like floor cleaner. But it’s always a good time, and the shows are always free.
9. Who has the best jukebox (and what’s in it)?
Flat Iron. Only jukebox I know that has both Sepultura and Motorhead versions of “Orgasmatron” in it.
10. What is your favorite place to see live music and what was your favorite show there?
Exploited at the Double Door, 2007. Best sound system in Chicago.
11. What is your favorite local band?
Been listening to My Cold Dead Hand’s EP a lot.
12. What is your favorite diner or restaurant and what is their best dish?
Pita Inn. “Businessman Special” — chicken, lamb and beef all for 5 bucks.
13. What is your favorite record store and what was your best find there?
I got the Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack on tape at Haddasah House.
14. What is your favorite local shop?
Hagens Fish Market.
15. What is your favorite local publication (alternative weekly, zine,
website or blog)?
Chicago Young Republican’s weekly newsletter.