Metal Anarchy

Time for the next edition of Metal Anarchy’s “new music showcase,” the feature where I introduce you to bands that readers of this site may find interesting. This time I have a Q&A with Mark Trueack.

METAL ANARCHY: Tell me a little about your band:

MARK TRUEACK: UNITOPIA (yu-nih-to-pi-E): meaning living together as one in a place of ideal perfection especially in law, government and social conditions.

Originally based in Adelaide, South Australia, members are spread wide, Thailand, and the USA Unitopia endeavours to draw from the heart and soul of the listener thought provoking topics such as environmental awareness, political and social upheaval and the hectic pace of life and human relationships in a positive and uplifting light. Using progressive themes as a framework, Unitopia’s music includes elements of world, classical, jazz, heavy rock, and groove. Sean Timms also his project Southern Empire while Mark Trueack has his special The United Progressive Fraternity. Other Members include Steve Unruh (Resistor, Samuri of Prog, and UPF along side Mark. Chester Thompson (Genesis, Frank Zappa, Phil Collins and Weather Report and our fab Stick man Don Schiff.

METAL ANARCHY: Who are your main influences?

MARK TRUEACK: There are many, they include John Martyn, Peter Gabriel, Moody Blues, Steve Wilson, Rush, Genesis just to name a few.

METAL ANARCHY: What is your latest release and why should readers of this site check it out?

MARK TRUEACK: “Journey’s Groove – An Adventure In Life”, I am not sure if your readers will like a chill album, but I wanted to get away from mainstream prog and rock as I felt these songs need a special presentation. However, if your readers love good story telling with groove and soul this is the album, there are many stories that people will relate to, because its about real life experiences.

METAL ANARCHY: What can people expect when they go to your live shows?

MARK TRUEACK: With regards to live shows, I am not thinking solo now but there is talk of a tour sometime next year with Unitopia to back the upcoming album “Spark.”

METAL ANARCHY: Where do you see your band heading in 5 years?

MARK TRUEACK: I may tour my next album as it will have a very art-fusion about it. The album “Breaking down the Barriers” 2027. In April 2026, we will be releasing a Rock Opera called “7 Deadly Sins” through OOB Records.