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 Thunderor’s JJ Tartaglia (Skull Fist) as he’s been spending this time writing and recording.

What have you been doing to pass time during Quarantine?
Well musically a lot of writing and recording, also developing my singing. The downtime has been great in that sense. But besides that I baked some random things, made some batches of hot sauce which turned out pretty good! Also spent some time working on my bike and doing repairs on my car. Learned a few things haha. Started getting equipment to brew some beer too but didn’t get around to it just yet. 

Have you been listening to any music or have any playlists worth checking out?
I’ve actually expanded my vinyl collection by about 5x during this time haha. I’ve got a soft spot for 70s prog rock (ELP, Tull, old Genesis). Also discovered some really cool new British NWOTHM bands like Dark Forest, Seven Sisters, Toledo Steel. Yeah there’s a Spotify playlist called ‘Fire It Up’ on the Thunderor page, it’s basically songs that inspired me during the writing of the album.

A lot of people have been spending this time cooking, including making their own bread. What food have you been prepping during this time?
Yeah like everybody I did that too haha. Banana bread, brownies, blueberry pie, strawberry rhubarb pie. Got recipes from my sister, she’s a super good baker. Also lots of meals too, cauliflower wings, fish chowder. 

In terms of entertainment, what movies, TV shows, books, or games have been keeping you busy?
I pretty much stick to movies (anything sci-fi, random new films). Re-watched some Bond movies. I want to see Sky Sharks since we landed a song in the trailer for the BluRay release. Also loads of David Attenborough documentaries. They’re just amazing. To see all the different animals and corners of the Earth I never knew existed. 

What advice do you have for your fans in isolation during this time?
Try to dedicate a bit of time each day to work towards a goal that you have. You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish as time goes on! Also if you’re listening to some new bands that you’re really digging, think about buying a vinyl or a shirt from them directly, it goes a long way!