Mike D’Antonio of Killswitch Engage denies using AI for new album art – VICE
ations of AI being used for the cover art of their upcoming album, “This Consequence,” which is their ninth studio album set to debut on Feb. 21. D’Antonio vehemently denied the use of AI in creating the cover art and expressed frustration at the rumors circulating on the internet.
In an interview with Australia’s Jaimunji, D’Antonio emphasized the amount of effort and time he put into creating the album cover, stating that it was not a simple task of inputting words into a computer and generating a design. He disclosed that the process involved taking ten thousand photos and dedicating substantial time to craft the cover art meticulously. Despite the rumors suggesting AI involvement, D’Antonio stressed that the cover art was entirely his creation.
The bassist mentioned that while some people may view the cover art as impressive enough to have been generated by AI, he personally dislikes the association with artificial intelligence. He acknowledged that AI offers a new form of artwork that some may find appealing, especially those lacking in creativity or resources, but it is not his preferred method of artistic expression. As an artist, D’Antonio believes in creating his artistry and maintaining autonomy over his work, emphasizing that he values the authenticity of his creative process.
D’Antonio’s defense against AI accusations mirrors a growing trend in the music industry, where artists face scrutiny over the use of AI-generated content. In a recent incident involving Dutch progressive death metal band Pestilence, controversy erupted over the AI-created cover for their latest album, “Levels of Perception.” The band’s frontman responded to critics, highlighting the band’s innovative approach to their music and visual aesthetics.
Despite the ongoing debate surrounding AI-generated imagery in music, it is evident that this trend is likely to continue and evolve further. While AI technology offers new possibilities for artistic expression, traditional methods of creating artwork hold significant value for artists like D’Antonio. As the music industry adapts to technological advancements, the importance of genuine artistic craftsmanship remains a cornerstone for many musicians, underscoring the enduring significance of human creativity in the face of technological innovation.