This week’s episode of How I Learned to Scream features an insightful conversation with Damonteal Harris, the talented frontman of the innovative slam metal band PeelingFlesh. Join us as he shares his journey into the world of aggressive music, detailing his first encounters with extreme vocals, the initial attempts at mastering the art of screaming, his family’s reactions, and much more.

Damonteal Harris reflects on his formative years and the pivotal moments that led him to embrace the world of extreme music.

Discover How Damonteal Harris First Encountered Aggressive Vocals and Began His Vocal Journey

The dynamic vocalist of PeelingFlesh attributes his exposure to aggressive vocal techniques to the iconic band Fall Out Boy, which introduced him to a more intense style of singing. However, when it comes to traditional harsh vocals, he points to the legendary band Suicide Silence and their late frontman Mitch Lucker as significant influences.

“I was completely unaware that humans had the capability to produce such intense sounds,” Harris recalls. “But from that moment, I was determined to learn how to replicate those guttural noises. I think I was around 14 or 15, in middle school, just experimenting in my room with all sorts of strange sounds,” he shares, reminiscing about his early vocal explorations.

“I started as what you might call a ‘shower vocalist’ — singing my heart out in the shower, bathroom, or closet. Whenever I had friends who shared this passion, we would gather in a room and have fun screaming our favorite songs together,” he adds, highlighting the camaraderie that comes with shared musical experiences.

As an only child, Harris relished the quiet moments alone at home. “I would come home from school, have the house to myself, and that was my time to unwind. I’d spend around 30 minutes just soaking in an album and practicing my vocals along with it,” he explains.

Everything changed for him when he first heard Matti Way unleash his growls in Abominable Putridity’s remarkable album Anomalies of Artificial Origin. “Hearing that was a game-changer for me. I thought, ‘I want to sound like that. Everything I create needs to have that intensity,'” Harris reflects on the profound impact of that moment.

Experience the Intensity of Abominable Putridity’s “Lack of Oxygen”

What Are Damonteal Harris’ Thoughts on the Mic-Cupping Technique?

Harris is a vocal advocate for the controversial practice of mic-cupping, firmly believing that critics of this technique should embrace it instead. “Some people refer to it as the ‘triggers of vocals,’ but I genuinely appreciate the sound it produces,” he states confidently. “It enhances my vocal quality. Don’t shy away from cupping the mic. It’s 2025—embrace it, regardless of the microphone you use. Cup that mic with confidence!” he encourages.

Learn How Damonteal Harris Mastered the Art of Screaming – Watch the Full Episode Now

Discover the entertaining anecdotes surrounding Harris’ family’s reaction to his vocal shenanigans, his preferred stance while recording, and the crucial mistakes to avoid before stepping on stage if you want to maintain your vocal integrity and avoid sounding like Marge Simpson.

Check out the complete episode of How I Learned to Scream below, and delve deeper into what PeelingFlesh has planned for the rest of the year.

What’s Next for PeelingFlesh in 2025? New EP, Upcoming Tour Dates, and Social Media Links

PeelingFlesh is set to release their highly anticipated new EP, PF Radio 2, on September 26 through Unique Leader Records. This follows their successful debut LP, The Go Code, which established them as a leading force within the new wave of death metal bands.

“This upcoming release marks a significant evolution for our band. We are constantly pushing our sound forward, and this EP showcases a new dimension of PeelingFlesh in terms of riffs, drums, samples, and vocals. We are incredibly excited for everyone to experience it,” Harris expresses with enthusiasm.

Don’t miss out on the single “Midnight,” available for your listening pleasure below.

Watch the Music Video for PeelingFlesh’s “Midnight”

Explore the Artwork and Track Listing for PeelingFlesh’s PF Radio 2

1. “Introlude”
2. “Redacted”
3. “Channel Zero”
4. “Holdin'” featuring Jason Frazier of Corpse Pile and CC from Algor Mortis
5. “Autistimus Prime” featuring Kiriakos Destounis of Embryectomy
6. “Flesh Cathedral”
7. “Middlelude”
8. “Midnight”
9. “D.V.P.B.”
10. “Outerlude”

Exciting Tour Dates for PeelingFlesh in 2025

PeelingFlesh is thrilled to be opening for Lorna Shore on their fall headlining tour, which will also include performances by The Black Dahlia Murder and Shadow of Intent.

Check out all the tour dates in the promotional graphic below, and grab your tickets on Lorna Shore’s official website.

Stay connected with PeelingFlesh through their social media platforms on Instagram, Facebook, and Spotify.

Enjoy PeelingFlesh Performing Their Most Beloved Riffs