Metal Inside(r) Home Quarantine is Metal Insider’s new column during this time of isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We asked artists five questions on what’s been keeping them busy ranging from their favorite movies, food they’ve been eating, music they’ve been listening to and more. We caught up with Rockin’ Engine’s Steve O Leff as he’s been spending this time focusing on his family.
What have you been doing to pass time during Quarantine?
Being a socially active person, the quarantine has definitely made an impact on my mental health and overall motivation. In order to remain somewhat sane, I decided to dedicate more time to my family and focus on my kids’ wellbeing. So I came up with the idea of producing music video clips with each one of them, with the song of their choice. Let’s just say that we definitely had a few laughs and were able to create amazing memories in the process!
Have you been listening to any music or have any playlists worth checking out?
There have been so many new great releases lately. I spent a lot of time listening to Jinjer and Lamb Of God, they were a huge inspiration in the writing of our new album. I’ve also dug back into my roots with Testament, Slayer, Exodus, and Megadeth… the great stuff! That being said, I focused a lot more on my local music scene and made some great discoveries such as Sinful Ways, Lutharo, Fractures & Outlines, Colorsfade, Cynical Sons, Wyntr, Cevilain, Eve Of Uprise, Taming Sari, and so much more. Ottawa Canada definitely has great bands to be discovered.
A lot of people have been spending this time cooking including making their own bread, what food have you been prepping during this time?
HOT SAUCE!!! I love making my homemade hot sauce, with homegrown Ghost Peppers and Habaneros. My favourite recipe is a blend of both these peppers, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and red wine vinegar. It’s super hot and very tasty! I also started some fermentation recipes and I’m quite surprised by the results. A definite game-changer for hot sauce fanatics.
In terms of entertainment, what movies, TV shows, books, or games have been keeping you busy?
Being a school teacher (yes, you read right), I spend a lot of time reading and writing for work. So when it’s time to chill, I can binge-watch series like Dexter, Lucifer, Supernatural (see the pattern?). I also love series like 24 and Homeland when I want some Hollywood action. That being said, I secretly watch Ru Paul’s Drag Race with my wife haha. It’s funny as hell and I can’t get enough of it!
What advice do you have for your fans in isolation during this time?
Focus on the positive. Take the time to work on yourself and try new hobbies, develop new skills. It’s the best time to do it and it will definitely keep your mind off the media roller coaster we see everyday. From time to time, leave all electronic devices behind and take a hike in the woods, near a river, or a lake. Connecting with nature is the best therapy in the world. The other times, listen to Rockin’ Engine and you’ll be fine!
