Betrayal
Interview Courtesy of 1340mag

Introduction:
In the early 1990’s Betrayal was on the cutting of the extreme Christian music explosion. After their 1993 release "The Passing", Betrayal disbanded and many of us thought they would never be back. We were wrong! Founding Betrayal member Marcus N. Colon returned in late 1999 with a new look and a new sound, still on the cutting edge of the ever evolving music scene "Leaving Nevermore" was released, leaving many fans surprised. Betrayal is now sporting the same dark issues in their lyrics but the sound has totally changed. So with their feet firmly planted in the goth/industrial/darkwave scene, Betrayal presses forward and I for one believe that this is only the beginning……..

1340mag: What led to the break-up of the former Betrayal members? Did you believe Betrayal would ever return?

Marcus: Life! Man, I can't even tell you all the reasons now. Some proved to be more than legit, while others still don't make sense. So many changes were going on in the lives of the members, that the focus was impaired greatly! I do know, for that season, God was done using "B". NO! I knew for me personally, I would always do music as a call God's given me, but I did think "B" was over. A question I get a lot is "why are you still using the name Betrayal"? The answer is simple, the Lord instructed clearly, that if I was to continue, it was to be under the banner of Betrayal, or nothing at all! At that point, obedience was my first response, and soon after, excitement!

1340mag: Why did you decide to go more towards an industrial sound for the majority of the new record instead of the extreme metal you are known for? Was it a conscious decision or an evolution?

Marcus: Definitely both. Staying cutting edge doesn't interest me if all you've been about is forsaken. To marry various influences in music and create a sound that's furious, yet compelling, is what was and still is the goal. That will always be Betrayal. The groundwork has been laid, now watch the development!

1340mag: Do you think that since you were one of the innovators of extreme music in the Christian market, that the fans will write this release off as not being "true Betrayal" ?

Marcus: What's true? Is the music still not dark? Is it still not progressive? Is there nothing fast and heavy? Does it make you want to sleep or does it drive you with a compelling message? The last thing we want to do is lose a fan, but the things that made people a "B" fan in the first place are still there and will continue to be, in greater dimensions. How can we show life and not show growth as well? Besides, the borders between musical genres fell long ago. Sure people still cling to their primary favorite, but does someone into metal not dig a killer goth or industrial song or band? I guess the question is; is it a good album or not?

1340mag: What would you say to someone that says you have abandoned your "roots"?

Marcus: Nothing, they've missed it! I'm not portraying some speed metal rock-god thing the rest of my life. I'm an artist with roots in music portrayed in a dark fashion slow and fast!

1340mag: Why did you choose to keep the name Betrayal since this record is so different from the other 2?

Marcus: (Smile)

1340mag: How have the fans reacted to the record so far?

Marcus: Yeah! After all that, almost everyone old and new are not only digging it,but getting it! Which means a lot to me. The response has been overwhelming as well as the reviews extremely positive! People see where music is going and highly compliment "L.N." as a part of that. (Once again, growth with integrity to an original sound.)

1340mag: What is your favorite song on the new record and why?

Marcus: "When" It comes from a personal place, where God truly met me and turned life around for me! Also, "To Follow" for our Heavenly Father's never ending love and promises towards us!

1340mag: Will you be touring for the new record?

Marcus: Yup! Just as soon as I lock down some new members. Know any?

1340mag : Tell us about your label Black and White Records.

Marcus: B&W Records was formed by some people to ensure the call God has for "B". That is the focus, not to work up a big roster of bands that won't get what they need, but advance what the Lord has put in front of us. Doing that in a way, knowing it's being handled responsibly before God.

1340mag: If you could tour with anyone who would it be?

Marcus: Wow, I've always dug "Galactic Cowboys". They'd probably know how to have a good time. It's one question I haven't put much thought into. Other bros would be so killer, but the opportunity to tour with a secular band would be quite the challenge and awesome opportunity.

1340mag: What do you enjoy outside of music?

Marcus: Truly, my wife and kids, sports (the Steelers), fishing, studying the Civil War and the Twilight Zones!

1340mag: What was the last good book you read?

Marcus: "In The Hands Of Providence" a biography on Col. Joshua L. Chamberlain (my hero of the Civil War) GREAT STUFF!

1340mag: Parting thoughts?

Marcus: I want to thank you Mark and all the invaluable support we're receiving, I am so privileged to share music again with people all over the world I can't fret on the minors, only what God has called me to do, and do it well in His strength. We welcome you to the new era of Betrayal, to hear and feel the depth of the music of "Leaving Nevermore". Please contact us for any reason. And join us as we advance the kingdom of God together!