We recently caught up with Amanda Gjelaj, frontwoman of the crushing Queens-based band The Machinist, to talk about the band’s roots, their upcoming album “Constans In Morte”, and the power of speaking out through heavy music. It was Amanda’s first-ever interview—and honestly, she nailed it.

From Otep to Overseas

Amanda, whose father is Albanian, hasn’t had the chance to travel overseas just yet—but music may soon change that. “The first time I ever left the country was actually on tour,” she told us, referring to their February stint in Canada. “That was pretty cool.”

She got into music at 14 after discovering Otep. “I remember seeing her and thinking, ‘Wow, I can’t believe a woman sounds like that.’ It inspired me to start a band, and it just went from there.”

Queens Pride and the NY Scene

When asked about her local scene, Amanda doesn’t hold back on the hometown love. “Being from New York City is incredible. Every tour comes through here—big or small, there’s always something going on. The death metal and hardcore scenes are tight. Everyone kind of knows everyone; we’ve grown up going to the same shows.”

Some underground venues she recommends? Saint Vitus Bar, The Kingsland, and Duff’s Bar—all based in Brooklyn and packed with energy, history, and metal memorabilia.

Constans In Morte: In Death We Trust

Their upcoming album, Constans In Morte (Latin for “In Death We Trust”), drops April 12 on Prosthetic Records, and it’s already being called their darkest work yet.

Amanda explains why: “Our first EP was more fun, but this time, we wanted to talk about serious stuff—women’s rights, Black Lives Matter, religion, politics. It’s intense, but it’s honest. Everyone in the band was going through something heavy, and it came out in the music.”

The first single, “No Peace”, is a bold shift in sound—and came with a gory, in-your-face video. “Some people weren’t expecting it, but we’re proud of it,” Amanda says. “It’s raw, and it makes a statement.”

Is It Controversial?

When asked if being controversial in 2019 is difficult, Amanda was reflective. “I don’t think we’re trying to be controversial. We’re just being real. If our lyrics connect with people or open someone’s eyes, then that’s a win.”

On topics like racism or sexism in music, Amanda is firm: “You can make mistakes and grow, but beliefs rooted in hate? That’s a lot harder to forgive. There’s a difference.”

On Signing with Prosthetic Records

So how did the deal come about?

“Our manager, Wesley, was shopping us around for a couple years. When Prosthetic came through, it felt right. I was shocked. There are so many amazing bands on that label—like Venom Prison and Monotheist. Touring with them was insane.”

What’s Next?

The band hits the road in April with Fellahin Fall and Luca, with more dates in the works. “We love touring. We just want to keep playing and connecting with fans.”

As for special editions or covers? “No bonus tracks or anything. We laid it all out on this one,” Amanda says. “Everything is ready.”

The Social Media Grind

We asked how she feels about the “likes, follows, and streams” game. “It’s overwhelming—in a good way. Watching our streams and video views go up is surreal. It feels like the hard work is finally paying off.”

Final Thoughts from Amanda

“To anyone listening to reading—thank you. Your support means everything to us. This has already been such a journey, and we can’t wait to show you what’s next.”

Whether you’re already a fan of The Machinist or just discovering them now, one thing is clear: Amanda and her crew are here to make noise—and they’re not backing down.

“Constans In Morte” drops April 12 via Prosthetic Records.

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Categories: Interviews, The Machinist