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 Plague Years vocalist Tim Engelhard as he’s been spending this time conquering challenges of homeschooling and being an essential worker. 

What have you been doing to pass time during Quarantine?

Well I work in the medical marijuana industry so I’m an essential employee. Basically I’ve been doing everything I can to stay safe during all this. Also with school being closed I’m homeschooling my daughter and that’s a tough process for an 8 year old. I’ve also been practicing vocal lessons, writing, and exercising. 

Have you been listening to any music or have any playlists worth checking out?

I’m always listening to music. Death Atlas by Cattle Decapitation has been my anthem for this year. The new Black Dahlia Murder album is also crushing my speakers. And Heilung keeps me sane. Spotify keeps me pretty up to date with good new jams. 

A lot of people have been spending this time cooking including making their own bread, what food have you been prepping during this time?

I’m not the greatest of cooks but I make a mean chili. I try to keep it simple in the kitchen. I’ve also made a few bomb steaks. 

In terms of entertainment, what movies, TV shows, books, or games have been keeping you busy?

Oh man that new Final Fantasy 7 remake has been great to me during this time. I also don’t have all the time I’d like to play games with the kid and work so I watch a lot of speed runs and Twitch content. The exploring series on YouTube has been a lot of fun also. I’ve been reading John Dee and the Empire of Angels, it’s a great book. 

What advice do you have for your fans in isolation during this time?

My best advice would be to hone a skill. Use this time to practice or even pick up something new. Create art, write, draw, play, anything. This is an unprecedented time and most people won’t get this kind of time to themselves again. Use it!