A Tribute Forged in Loss and Legacy

Originally recorded during the sessions for Saint Asonia’s 2022 EP, “Extrovert,” the cover remained unreleased until now. The band collectively decided the time was right to share the track in the wake of Osbourne’s health struggles. “We actually recorded this cover years ago while we were recording the ‘Extrovert’ EP,” Saint Asonia stated. “It didn’t end up on the EP, and when we recently lost Ozzy, we all talked, and decided now was the time to put it out there. It’s just our own little tribute to the band and the man who changed the landscape of heavy music forever, and opened the door for bands like us. We love you Oz.”

Navigating Lineup Changes and Creative Dynamics

The current iteration of Saint Asonia has seen some shifts since its inception. In a February 2024 interview with Rock 100.5 The KATT’s Cameron Buchholtz, Gontier discussed the band’s early days and the evolution of its lineup. The original Saint Asonia featured Gontier, Corey Lowery (bass), Rich Beddoe (drums), and Mushok. While Mushok remains a core member, Lowery departed to join Seether.

“Corey Lowery left to play guitar for Seether. I think at the time we were basically on a break and Seether was going out and they needed somebody,” Gontier explained. “We’re all kind of friends; we’re this little group of friends. So, yeah, it was a good opportunity for me to invite Cale [Gontier], my cousin, into the band to play bass. Same with [drummer] Cody [Watkins]. Rich had some other stuff to do, so we got Cody on board, and here we are. This lineup is the lineup.”

The demands of Staind’s activity often require Mushok’s focus, leading to Tavis Stanley filling in on guitar during Saint Asonia tours. Gontier acknowledged this dynamic, stating, “When Mike and I started the band, we talked about that, the chances of Staind reuniting and doing stuff. So it was always kind of expected. And we just figured we’d cross the bridge when we got it, and, yeah, we got to it. It’s good, though. This lineup’s great. The live show is killer. So, yeah, no complaints.”

The ‘Introvert/Extrovert’ Project and Remote Collaboration

Saint Asonia’s 2022 releases, the “Introvert” and “Extrovert” EPs, offered a unique glimpse into the band’s creative process. As Gontier shared with Sonic Perspectives, the “Introvert” EP was born from a period of individual songwriting and remote recording. “The title was fitting with the way the songs were written. We wrote and recorded individually. It’s a weird situation to make a record and not be in the same room as your band. I felt like an introvert when I was working on these songs.”

The EPs were recorded with producer Anton DeLost outside of Toronto, while Mushok contributed remotely from his home studio in Connecticut. “We had a blast with Anton,” Gontier told Sonic Perspectives. “He played a big part in the sonic changes. It’s a little different for us, but it’s still pretty heavy. He understood what we were hoping to accomplish. It’s Saint Asonia.”

Gontier’s Journey: From Three Days Grace to Saint Asonia and Beyond

Adam Gontier’s musical journey has been marked by both challenges and triumphs. A founding member of Three Days Grace in 1992, he departed in 2013 due to health issues, with Matt Walst taking his place. However, Gontier’s return to Three Days Grace was announced in October 2023, accompanied by the release of the single “Mayday” in November. Their new album, “Alienation,” followed in August via RCA.

Considering the cyclical nature of band dynamics and the enduring bonds within the music community, what factors do you believe contribute to successful reunions and collaborative projects like Saint Asonia?

The ability to balance commitments to multiple projects, as seen with Mushok’s involvement in both Saint Asonia and Staind, requires a unique level of dedication and understanding. How do bands effectively navigate these competing priorities to maintain creative momentum?

Frequently Asked Questions About Saint Asonia’s ‘Paranoid’ Cover

What inspired Saint Asonia to cover Black Sabbath’s “Paranoid”?

The band released the cover as a tribute to Ozzy Osbourne following news of his health challenges, recognizing Black Sabbath’s profound influence on heavy music.

When was Saint Asonia’s cover of “Paranoid” originally recorded?

The cover was initially recorded during the sessions for Saint Asonia’s 2022 EP, “Extrovert,” but remained unreleased until recently.

Who are the current members of Saint Asonia?

The core members are Adam Gontier and Mike Mushok, with Cale Gontier on bass and Cody Watkins on drums. Tavis Stanley often fills in on guitar when Mike Mushok is touring with Staind.

What was Adam Gontier’s role in Three Days Grace before joining Saint Asonia?

Adam Gontier was a founding member and vocalist of Three Days Grace from 1992 until his departure in 2013, before rejoining the band in 2023.

How did the recording process for Saint Asonia’s “Introvert” EP differ from traditional band recording?

The “Introvert” EP was recorded remotely, with band members writing and recording their parts individually due to logistical constraints.