In this week’s episode of How I Learned to Scream, we welcome Damonteal Harris, the dynamic frontman of the rising slam metal band PeelingFlesh. He shares his journey into the world of extreme vocals, revealing the inspirations that sparked his passion for aggressive sound and how he navigated the reactions of his family.
Discovering Harsh Vocals: Damonteal Harris’ Journey
Harris traces his first encounter with aggressive vocal techniques back to the iconic band Fall Out Boy, which introduced him to a more intense style of singing. However, it was the traditional deathcore sound, particularly that of Suicide Silence and Mitch Lucker, that truly captivated him.
“I had no idea humans could produce such sounds, but I was instantly drawn to it,” Harris recalls. “I was around 14 or 15, and I spent countless hours in my room experimenting with different vocal techniques.” He describes himself as a “shower vocalist,” often practicing his screams in private or with friends who shared his musical interests.
“Being an only child, I’d come home and have my own sanctuary for about 30 minutes, where I could lose myself in an album and explore my vocals,” he shares. The turning point for him came when he heard Matti Way’s guttural growls on Abominable Putridity’s album, Anomalies of Artificial Origin. “I was like, ‘I want to sound like that. That’s my goal,'” he asserts.
Abominable Putridity, “Lack of Oxygen”
Cupping the Mic: A Vocal Technique Embraced
Harris proudly identifies as a mic-cupper, a technique that some may criticize. However, he believes in its effectiveness and encourages others to embrace it. “Some might refer to it as the ‘triggers’ of vocals, but I simply love how it sounds. Don’t shy away from cupping the mic—it’s 2025, so just go for it,” he asserts. “No matter the mic, cup it with confidence!”
Learning to Scream: Insights from Damonteal Harris
To dive deeper into Harris’ journey, the full episode of How I Learned to Scream reveals his family’s reaction to his unique vocalizations, his preferences when recording—whether sitting or standing—and what not to do before hitting the stage to avoid sounding like Marge Simpson.
Catch the complete episode below, and stay tuned for more exciting updates from PeelingFlesh this year.
PeelingFlesh in 2025: New EP, Tour Dates, and More
PeelingFlesh is set to release their highly anticipated EP, PF Radio 2, on September 26 through Unique Leader. This new project follows their acclaimed debut LP, The Go Code, which helped position them as leaders in a new wave of death metal.
“This release represents a significant evolution for us as a band,” Harris explains. “We’re continually pushing the boundaries of our sound. The new EP showcases our growth across the board—riffs, drums, samples, and vocals are all dialed up to eleven, and we can’t wait for everyone to experience it.”
Check out their latest single “Midnight” below.
PeelingFlesh, “Midnight” Music Video
PF Radio 2 Artwork and Track Listing
peelingflesh pf radio 2 art
Unique Leader
- 1. “Introlude”
- 2. “Redacted”
- 3. “Channel Zero”
- 4. “Holdin” feat. Jason Frazier of Corpse Pile and CC from Algor Mortis
- 5. “Autistimus Prime” feat. Kiriakos Destounis of Embryectomy
- 6. “Flesh Cathedral”
- 7. “Middlelude”
- 8. “Midnight”
- 9. “D.V.P.B.”
- 10. “Outerlude”
PeelingFlesh 2025 Tour Dates
PeelingFlesh is set to join Lorna Shore on their fall headlining tour, alongside The Black Dahlia Murder and Shadow of Intent.
Find all the tour dates on the promotional material below and purchase tickets through Lorna Shore’s official website.
Stay connected with PeelingFlesh on Instagram, Facebook, and Spotify.
lorna shore 2025 tour dates
Lorna Shore
PeelingFlesh Showcases Their Favorite Riffs
Best Death Metal Album of Each Year Since 1985
Almost four decades of brutal music to explore!
Gallery Credit: Joe DiVita
Conclusion
Damonteal Harris’ journey into the world of extreme vocals exemplifies the passion and dedication required to master the art of screaming. His unique experiences and insights shed light on the evolution of PeelingFlesh as a band, while their upcoming EP promises to showcase their growth and musical exploration. As they prepare to hit the road, fans can look forward to an electrifying display of talent and ferocity.
FAQs
What influenced Damonteal Harris to start screaming?
Harris was inspired by bands like Fall Out Boy for aggressive vocals and Suicide Silence for traditional harsh techniques.
What vocal techniques does Damonteal Harris use?
Harris is a proponent of mic cupping, which he believes enhances vocal sound quality.
When is PeelingFlesh’s new EP released?
Their new EP, PF Radio 2, is set to be released on September 26, 2025.
What can fans expect from PeelingFlesh’s upcoming tour?
Fans can expect an energetic performance as PeelingFlesh opens for Lorna Shore alongside other notable bands.
