HEAVY Music Interviews

Interview by Angela CroudaceWhen Cursed hit number seven on the Spotify global charts, Paleface Swiss didn't just make a statement — they detonated it into the metal world. For guitarist Yannick Lehmann, the milestone still feels surreal. "It's unbelievable. We're completely DIY, no label, nothing — so to see that kind of success is mind-blowing," he says.Formed in 2018 as a local Swiss act, Paleface Swiss quickly built momentum in the hardcore beatdown scene before COVID shut the world down. Instead of stalling, the band doubled down, writing two albums and teasing songs online. Their audience was ready and hungry by the time live shows returned.Switzerland may be known for peace and neutrality, but Paleface Swiss are proud to represent the country's heavier side. "We love being the hardest band from our country," Yannick laughs. Yet the journey wasn't straightforward. Yannick initially joined as a studio guitarist, unsure about committing full-time. Fast forward to 2025, and he's now a full-time musician, having traded carpentry for crushing riffs.With its raw, live-ready sound, Cursed was born under sunny skies in Spain's Canary Islands, with palm trees, a pool, and nightly darts championships. "We had the time of our lives making it," Yannick recalls. "When we write, we write to play live — raw and powerful." That live energy translates into ferocious shows, whether it's sweaty clubs or on massive festival stages.Australian fans, he says, match the wild energy of U.S. crowds, with memories of wheelchair crowd-surfing standing out. This September, the band returns to Australia, bringing friends and early inspirations Nasty along for the ride — a full-circle moment for a band heavily inspired by them in their formative years.Paleface Swiss' Influences range from metal titans Judas Priest and Iron Maiden to Slipknot, hardcore heavyweights, and even dubstep and hip-hop. That genre-blending spirit gives Cursed unexpected textures without losing its bone-crushing core.Off stage, Yannick stays grounded, valuing personal connections with fans over rock-star distance. And while a mandatory stint in Swiss military service looms after the tour, there's minimal downtime in sight. "We never rest," he says. "There's always something to do."With their relentless drive and genre-defying edge, Paleface Swiss aren't just rewriting the rules for heavy music in Switzerland; they're smashing them to pieces globally. This Aussie run of shows is one you don't wanna miss! Tickets: https://thephoenix.au/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Angela CroudaceWith their upcoming album, Where Did All the Butterflies Go? dropping on September 5, LA-based rock outfit Beauty School Dropout are stepping into their boldest sonic chapter yet. The band (Colie, Bardo, Beepus, and Colton) describe the record as "the best music we've ever made," a profoundly personal and genre-blurring journey through love, loss, and self-discovery.The album's title stems from emotional reckoning, as Colie reflected on a relationship that dulled his spirit: "I just didn't feel anything anymore… I was like, where did all the butterflies go?" That question became the emotional nucleus of the album, which explores falling out of love, not just romantically, but with society, identity, and purpose.The record marks a creative leap for BSD, produced with legendary studio wizard Neil Avron (Fall Out Boy, Linkin Park). "We took a year and a half to write this," they shared. "It's the first time we've ever sunk our teeth into an album fully." The result is a kaleidoscope of influences from EDM and indie sleaze to pop punk and party rock, anchored by raw emotion and explosive energy.Their single On Your Lips leans into techno-inspired textures, a nod to their love of underground sounds and Jersey Club rhythms. "We've always loved EDM," they said, "and we wanted to bring party rock back."Having shared stages with Blink-182 and played iconic festivals like Lollapalooza and Download, BSD are no strangers to surreal moments. Yet, they remain grounded. "We're grateful, but we're ambitious," they said. "Five years from now, we just want to be having as much fun as we are now."Whether it's jump rope competitions, tattoo artistry, or bingeing Seth Rogen's The Studio, BSD's off-stage lives are as eclectic as their music. And yes, Australia is firmly on their radar. "We think about Australia every day," they laughed. "2026—we're manifesting it."Beauty School Dropout are seriously impressive to an elder emo like myself and is just the band I've been looking for to satisfy my teenage nostalgia itch as a 30-something year old today. The best part is, I could have been totally intimidated by these shirtless Californians, but these boys were so down-to-earth and humble despite being backed by some huge artists in the industry. BSD is ready to soar with authenticity as their compass and butterflies as their muse, and I only want more!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Sydney rock outfit Stormflower are effectively about to take their first steps into the world, placing themselves at the mercy of the public in pursuit of musical fulfilment.They say in music, as in life, it is the little things that ease the pain. Things like planning, preparation, practice... anything that can be considered a building block or a platform to sustain you along the arduous journey that confronts each and every musician at some stage of their career. But no matter the amount of time and thought you put into even the minutest of details, the music machine will invariably strike and send you flailing into the darkness from where you came and poke holes in your surroundings just for good measure.Sound bleak? That's because it is, but building a firm base can act as a buffer and allow that faint glimmer of hope to remain in your eyes, if even for one moment longer.Which is what Stormflower have done before unleashing their debut song Coda into the world. They have spent countless hours planning and practising before releasing music, even managing to secure a place on the roster of Australia's emerging label XMusic, but you can never be too sure. The proof, as they say, is in the pudding.And that pudding arrived earlier today courtesy of Coda, with HEAVY taking the opportunity to talk with the band while still in the honeymoon period, catching guitarist Owen, drummer Julien and vocalist Robert a mere couple of hours after Coda hit the streets."Coda is a bit of a journey," Owen began. "It's touching on a few elements around where we are and the whole cycle of life thing and in reference to CODA and the DSL CODA, etc, where we return to start in that sense, and trying to figure it out along the way and try to get some help along the way to help make sense of it all as well."The press release refers to Stormflower's genre-defying sound and experimental nature, which we ask the boys to elaborate on further."I guess we've got lots of influences," Julien measured. "I think there's bands that we love that are quite experimental as well. We try to do something that's a bit unique, mixing different genres. And I guess when we say experimental, that means musically, but also spiritually, maybe trying to challenge ideas and concepts."In the full interview, the boys discussed Coda in greater detail, which marks their first release under XMusic and is part of an upcoming EP featuring a blend of heavier and more accessible tracks. The band emphasized their commitment to emotional depth and authenticity in their music, highlighting their perfectionist tendencies in the creative process and their collaboration with XMusic to ensure quality. They shared their experimental approach, merging influences from various genres to create a unique sound, and expressed excitement for live performances and audience connection and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersPolaris have been conquering the world one country at a time since the release of their third album, Fatalist, in 2023. Having already firmly established their place as a fixture in the Australian heavy landscape via their first two albums - 2020's ARIA Award-nominated The Death Of Me and 2017's The Mortal Coil, which debuted in the Australian Top 10 - Polaris have earnt themselves a laundry list of accolades along with sold-out headline tours of Australia and previous tours across the globe, including most recently performing at Good Things Festival in 2022 alongside headliners Bring Me The Horizon. 2023 saw POLARIS head overseas for multiple European summer festival appearances, and the band's global love affair has been on an upward trajectory ever since.Last month, Polaris were finally given their deserved level of respect in their home country when they were named to headline Froth & Fury 2026, a rapidly growing Australian festival that this year has expanded to feature Perth for the first time as well as its adopted home in Adelaide. Polaris' name sits proudly on the event poster atop some legends of the music world, with Soulfly, Nailbomb, Comeback Kid and Lagwagon leading the international charge, and Frenzal Rhomb, Ocean Sleeper, Private Function, Terminal Sleep and Zuko joining Polaris for home country honours. HEAVY recently caught up with bassist/vocalist Jake Steinhauser to firstly congratulate the band on their headlining status."Thank you so much," he replied sincerely. "We're absolutely stoked to be headlining the fest. Just to be at the stage to be doing anything like that at this point is really awesome for us. So, yeah, very, excited."We mention the high number of Australian bands on the bill and ask Jake how important festivals that reward homegrown talent are for the Australian music industry and what emerging bands can take out of the experience."I guess being here in Australia, we're so separated from the world and there's kind of almost like this illustriousness to some of the bands that do come over here and play shows," he measured. "Getting to see some of our bands rub shoulders with them, regardless of what level they are themselves, helps to put the image of that band in a similar place in your mind, especially as a young audience goer. I remember when we were young, the pinnacle of what we could - just to go back to Soundwave again - was always… we just wanted to desperately play that festival. And, sadly, it's not with us anymore. But every time we get to do something here at home, I am always reminding myself of what it looked like to see those local bands, to see the homegrown heroes and stuff like that."In the full interview, Jake expressed gratitude for the opportunity and highlighted Froth & Fury's diverse lineup, which is beneficial for emerging artists. He detailed the extensive planning and rehearsal involved in their live performances, the positive reception of their latest album, and shared experiences from recent tours. He also provided an update on Polaris' new album, indicating progress in the writing process and plans for a focused retreat in New South Wales, while expressing excitement about the new material and upcoming shows in Japan and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersFor 20 years, Jerome Reuter a.k.a. ROME has been a force to reckon with in the musical underground. Through relentless touring and a steady stream of high-quality concept albums, ROME has built a remarkably loyal following from Berlin to LA, from Sydney to Saigon, from Lisbon to Kyiv.The Luxembourg-born singer-songwriter has created an authoritative body of work, encompassing more than 20 full-length albums and numerous other official releases. ROME's compelling brand of Dark Folk merges various musical influences, from Post-Punk to Chanson. Lyrically inspired by world literature from Burroughs to Brecht, Celine to Cioran, from Hesse to Jünger; ROME's detailed, well-researched, yet particularly accessible concept albums combine his interest in history, philosophy and the arts in a most compelling way. Through his unique vision, he has managed to establish his very own musical niche informed by various European folk and Chanson traditions coupled with post punk and industrial influences.Now, for the very first time, Reuter is heading to Australia for a select run of shows starting from August 22, and to celebrate the occasion, HEAVY was fortunate enough to score some time to discuss his plans. We start by asking Reuter why he has neglected us for the last two decades (with a smile, of course)."Good question," he laughed. "There were a few attempts before, but there was COVID and this and that, but finally we got this back on track for this year and also because it's our 20th anniversar,y we are doing a big tour, so I guess we waited a little bit to make it happen this year."Being his first time out here, Australian fans have little idea of what to actually expect when Reuter takes the stage, so we try to fill in the blanks."This Australian tour is going to be a stripped-back, solo show," he began. "So it's just going to be me on guitar. It's not the whole band, it's not the big kaboom of thundering drums that I am known for. It's more of an honest, direct, intimate approach with me just on guitar, revisiting some of the material I have written in the last several years and taking it back to the roots."In the full interview, Jerome talks more about the tour and what to expect, the challenges of visiting a country for the first time, constructing set lists, how he develops his conceptual ideas and how much research goes into them, the plethora of goodness being released to celebrate Rome's 20th anniversary and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersEnglish alternative rock band Bush initially gained popularity in the mid-1990s, particularly in the United States, with their debut album Sixteen Stone. While initially labelled as grunge or post-grunge, Bush carved out their own space with a blend of heavy riffs, catchy melodies, and frontman Gavin Rossdale's distinctive vocals. After a hiatus, the band reunited in 2010 and continues to release music and tour successfully, with a loyal fan base that feels connected with the band due to their honest and decisive lyrics.Bush's sound has been described as a mix of grunge, post-grunge, alternative rock, and hard rock, and while some critics initially dismissed them as grunge imitators, particularly of Nirvana, Bush developed their own unique style, characterized by powerful guitar riffs, memorable hooks, and Rossdale's vocals, which ranged from aggressive to melodic.This is perhaps never more evident than on Bush's latest album, I Beat Loneliness, a deeply personal release highlighting a sense of vulnerability coupled with other serious issues such as men's mental health and dealing with associated problems.With I Beat Loneliness having been out for almost one month now, HEAVY took the time to speak with Rossdale to dive even deeper, starting by asking how the early reception has been for the new album."It's been fantastic, really amazing across the board," he smiled. "It's a great reception to a record that is finding its way connecting with people, and this has been a really fun time. It feels like a body of work, as opposed to like cracking on one song for like six months, you know?"We ask Rossdale to go into greater detail about I Beat Loneliness musically and what he was going for with it."For me, music is still an experiment," he began, "and I'm still 25% I don't understand about it, or probably even more. And so every song I write is a form of experimentation for me, and just diving into these different worlds. I'm finding a lot in the detuned world, and then a lot in the soft sense you can have. I can create these worlds to write in, because I have a weird, weird skill set. I go into banks of sound, and I can do it really fast. I've done it for years where I had to listen to other people going through them slowly, but now I've got my own studio, I can go through things really quick. You find these great moments that create these atmospheres with keyboards, and so I just write in those worlds."In the full interview, Gavin described his creative process as an experimental journey through various sonic landscapes, using sound banks to create unique atmospheres. He emphasized the album's themes of hope and authenticity, aiming to resonate with listeners' vulnerabilities and address mental health issues, sharing a poignant experience where a fan credited his music with saving their life, prompting him to reflect on his own past and the importance of kindness in the world.We spoke about his approach to music and finding the best in himself, not just as a songwriter, but as a person. Gavin explained the reasons for starting the album with the song Scars and how it introduces the listener to the heavy content to come. We spoke about the importance of music in moments of stress and the healing qualities it can provide, possible Australian tour plans and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Music up until the 1970s had been a predominantly male-dominated industry, especially the rock scene, which was considered to be full of exactly the type of people your mother warned you about.Sure, there were some brilliant artists, including Janis Joplin, Marianne Faithfull and Suzi Quatro, but it was in the mid 70s when three young, brash and rebellious aspiring musicians called Joan Jett, Sandy West and Micki Steele were assembled by record producer Kim Fowley that the musical landscape changed forever. After the loss of Steele early in the piece, the new all-girl group called The Runaways welcomed Peggy Foster on bass and guitarist Lita Ford, before discovering a 15-year-old Cherie Currie who completed the final piece of the puzzle as vocalist.The rest, as they say, is history, and if by chance you are drawing a blank from the name The Runaways, then think about a song called Cherry Bomb, and things will become clearer.The release of their debut self-titled album in 1976 saw The Runaways support the likes of Cheap Trick, Van Halen, Talking Heads, and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, in the process giving voice and purpose, and more importantly, musical respect, to aspiring female musicians around the world. But it was teenage frontwoman Cherie Currie and her youthful defiance that captured the hearts as well as the ears of a growing global rebellion. She became the face of rock and the inspiration for hope and change. In short, she became a legend; a national treasure and someone who young girls wanted to grow up to be.After disbanding two years later, each member of The Runaways went on to greater success but did so without ever touring Australia. Currie rectified that blight with her debut tour in 2016, but she returns in September this year as part of her worldwide farewell tour, determined to leave one final musical impression on this side of the world.Cherie Currie's Final Australian Tour is the ultimate celebration of a rock legend who defined an era and inspired countless fans and would-be musicians around the globe. Whilst The Runaways never made it to Australia, we have been lucky enough to witness their iconic vocalist not only once, but now twice, with a chance to say goodbye.Currie joined HEAVY earlier this week to talk about the tour and the enduring legacy that is The Runaways."I've been looking forward to this for months now," she enthused. "When I was in Australia in 2016, it was a completely different band, and the reason I'm so excited about this one is my son's band is going to be backing me. His band is called Maudlin Strangers, but Jake is taking the drums this time. He's a front guy and an amazing singer and guitar player. But Sandy West, god rest her soul, gave him some lessons when he was just a kid, and he is paying such homage to Sandy West. He plays it just like her, and when I turn around, and I get to work with my son on stage, it just feels like I've got Sandy with me. It's just fantastic, and this band is off the charts."Currie is partway through the farewell tour, aiming to say goodbye to as many fans as she can. While it is undeniably an emotional time for the fans, having to say goodbye, Currie has to go through it every time she goes on stage. So far she has completed last tours through Europe and the UK, and we point out must be a difficult thing for her to do night after night."It is," she sighed genuinely. "It does hurt. It is painful because I still see people that I've seen at other shows and other tours I've done in the UK and Europe. I them and I see their faces. I recognize them, and it is a little tearful. It really is, because I thank them so much for all this support."In the full interview, Cherie spoke about the setlist, which will feature a mix of The Runaways hits, solo favourites, and new songs from her latest album, Boulevards of Splendor. She reflected on her nearly 50-year career, the emotional challenge of saying goodbye to fans, and the significance of connecting with her audience.Cherie recounted her early days with The Runaways, the pressures of the music industry, and the influence of Suzi Quatro. We talked about performing songs that were written at a different time of her life and how she maintains a connection with them, the national support act Hot Machine, the musical climate that gave birth to The Runaways and if they realized how much influence they would have on the music scene.Cherie went deeper into the early days of The Runaways and how various people tried to change or mould the band, the reasons they stuck to their guns, walking into the offices of EMI Records and demanding to be seen, how being in The Runaways impacted her life and career, plus more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersNorwegian-American aggrotech/industrial metal band Combichrist are known for their intense, aggressive sound and energetic live performances.Led by frontman Andy LaPlegua, the band blends heavy electronic beats with industrial metal guitars, often incorporating elements of punk and even some orchestral arrangements. Their lyrics frequently explore controversial themes with a mix of dark humour and provocative social commentary, but it is in the live arena where Combichrist shine. Their shows are the stuff of whispers the world over for their brutally intense precision, an experience Aussie fans have not been subject to for a couple of years now.But that is about to change in not too many sleeps when Combichrist bring their Down and Under Again Tour to Australia's capital cities over three consecutive days from September 18. HEAVY recently sat down with LaPlegua to go into more details."It's just been too long, man," he began, almost apologising for the time between visits, "and I'm really looking forward to it."We ask him what has changed with the band since that last tour."A lot," he smiled. "I mean, it's a lot and nothing. There is my concept and my idea of why and how and everything. I create, you know, it's like this is my canvas. I paint, and I do my thing, and I don't really care what's cool or not. I'm just going to do my thing regardless. So that hasn't changed. My mindset is the same. I still just kind of do. I hate to repeat myself is most of the thing. So with that said, it should be something new all the time. So maybe being something new all the time is maybe what's the same?"In the full interview, Andy shared more insights into the changes within Combichrist in that period, including the addition of new band members Todd Hansen (drummer for Australian tour) and Jamie, as well as Elliot's transition from crew to a full-time band member. He emphasized the importance of live performances as a shared experience between the band and the audience, highlighting the challenges of performing in unfamiliar venues and the need for connection to avoid feelings of isolation on stage. Andy also mentioned the band's plan to perform a mix of old and new material, with a new release expected at the end of August.Andy provided an update on Combichrist's new album, Desolation, and discussed his creative process, which involves drawing inspiration from a variety of genres while avoiding the temptation to replicate past sounds and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersSwiss extreme metal duo BØLZER formed in Zürich in 2008 by Okoi Jones (vocals/guitar) and Fabian Wyrsch (drums). Known for their unique blend of black and death metal, the band creates a raw, atmospheric sound characterized by complex riffs, atonal elements, and mythological themes influenced by Nietzsche, paganism, and ancient cultures.Their music is described as an "intuitive art project born from raw passion," delivering a chaotic, spiritual live experience they liken to an "atavistic vortex." BØLZER gained significant acclaim with their 2013 EP Aura, praised by NPR and Stereogum as one of the year's best metal releases, followed by Soma (2014) and their debut album Hero (2016). Their unconventional approach, blending brutal intensity with psychedelic and doom elements, has earned them a cult following in the extreme metal scene.BØLZER is touring Australia in August 2025 as special guests of PORTAL, an Australian extreme metal band known for their dissonant, horror-infused fusion of death and black metal for what promises to be the most brutal tour to grace these shores this year.Heavy sat down with Jones and Wyrsch to get the lowdown on what to expect. It has been a while between drinks for Australian fans, so we ask the boys what has changed with the band since they last visited."We just finished a studio session for a new album," Wyrsch replied. "But that one is due for next year. So for now, we're just preparing everything and also starting to play a few new songs live. So definitely some of them will appear on this Australian tour as well. Very much looking forward to playing some fresh material."We ask what fans can expect."I think we're immersive in the sense that the music's very powerful in an organic sense," Jones measured. "There's a lot of not just aggressive energy, but powerful, human, honest energy around, and people seem to connect with that when we play live. We put a lot of our passion into it.""In a personal way," Wyrsch added. "We're not putting up theatrics. It's more like really…""There are no masks, no makeup," Jones finished. "It's very down to earth, but in your face."In the full interview, Okoi and Fabian expressed excitement about returning to Australia after several years and highlighted their recent studio session for a new album, set for release in 2026. They plan to incorporate new songs into their live performances during the tour and reflected on their past collaborations with Portal.They described their live shows as immersive experiences filled with powerful energy and recommended their EP Aura and the Hero LP for new listeners. They discussed their artistic evolution and the challenge of maintaining originality while expressing confidence in their new material, which they believe will resonate with both current and new fans. We spoke about how BOLZER approach music festivals and if they take time to listen to the local bands, the growth in their music and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersNecrosonic Festival 2025 can rightfully lay claim to being Brisbane's premiere heavy metal music festival. Following a successful debut in 2024, the 2025 edition is again curated by Kent Bartley, one of the masterminds behind legendary Australian festivals like Overcranked, Inferno, and Dead of Winter. The lineup includes both international acts and resurrected Australian legends, with some bands reuniting for rare or one-off performances.Described as a "ritual" rather than just a festival, Necrosonic 2025 promises an intense, 12-hour-plus experience featuring 30 of the heaviest bands from the underground metal scene, performing across three stages at the Mansfield Tavern on August 23. One of the most popular grouping of bands in last year's debut offering was Resurrected: Back From The Dead and this year's collection of older bands reunited promises to be no exception with Massic, Idle Ruin, Daysend, Beanflipper and Brace dusting off the cobwebs and keen to re-enter the fray alongside Portal, Bolzer, Abramelin, Frankenbok and more.Sydney heavy outfit Brace are one of the Resurrected, reforming after 20 years to answer the metal call to arms, with bass player Rod Yates more than happy to shoot the breeze with HEAVY about Round Two for the band."It's been a long time," he affirmed. "It's been about 20 years since the last show, but you know what? It's sounding pretty good. We've picked up where we left off, which is good."We mention the other four bands in the Resurrected category and point out that Brace will be amongst illustrious company in returning to the stage."I can't believe that we get to share a stage with those bands for one," he enthused. "Daysend we used to play with quite a bit back in the day, we're good friends with those guys. We haven't seen them for a long time, so that's going to be great, but Beanflipper are one of the bands that you grew up listening to and used to read about in Hot Metal, so to see them back playing and to play on the same stage as them... It's going to be massive with the other bands as well. You've got 30 bands playing across three stages in 12 hours!"In the full interview, Rod discusses getting the band back together and how easily they have slipped back into gear. He tells us what we can expect from Brace live, including three songs to listen to in order to get to know the band if you are unfamiliar with their music.We talk about the value of festivals such as Necrosonic to the Australian heavy metal scene, the history of Brace, why they broke up and what's changed to make them try again, new music and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris Peters For almost four decades, rock outfit The Poor have flown the flag for good old-fashioned, no bullshit Aussie rock. Alongside their brothers in Rose Tattoo and The Screaming Jets, to name just a few, The Poor have remained loyal to their roots regardless of the changing tides of world music, delivering time and again with a carefree attitude coupled with classy as fuck rock numbers that almost dare you to not listen.Theirs is a music and style that has stood the tests of time and the swirling winds of change, and it is testament to their durability and longevity that last year's album High Price Deed is regarded in some circles as being equal to, if not superior to, The Poor's groundbreaking debut classic Who Cares.With a touring schedule reminiscent of the glory days of Australian rock and gigs booked already until at least the end of next year, it's fair to say that The Poor are running head first into the naughty forties and, even better still, show no signs of slowing down. Despite having their original bass player, Matt Whitby, step away from the band earlier this year for personal reasons, The Poor remain firmly on track, focused and ready to continue their domination of the Australian and global music scene.HEAVY sat down with drummer Gavin Hansen to find out just how much The Poor have on their plate. One of the questions we ask relates to the sustainability of bands such as The Poor and Rose Tattoo, and we question if their old-school attitude to life and music has played a part in their sustained output and success."I think so," he measured. "That's definitely a part of it, I guess. The way that you've grown up and the way that you've cut your teeth and the way you've maintained that. The industry has changed so much in a lot of ways, in a lot of different areas over that time, back and forth. Let's face it, in the 90s there were no festivals as such, really. Festivals made a massive change in the club touring circuit for a long time, especially in Australia. As you know, the good old Big Day Out, SoundWaves and Livid's got to a point where everyone would hold off until they got on one of those bills, and then they would create a tour around it. And then I think that's what hurt the scene of rock bands coming through. They weren't out there slogging it out in the circuit or the pubs every weekend, you know. They were waiting, or there was just a massive change of festivals. And then now… I don't know. I'm not going to say there's nothing to replace it in the sense of that calibre of acts. I just think that era has a different edge and hardness and toughness about it, where, you know, maybe the stuff in the last 10 years hasn't."Talk turns to Rock The Boat 2026, where The Poor sail the high seas with The Angels, Baby Animals, Rose Tattoo, Killing Heidi, The Superjesus and Radiators, just to name a few."I've always been hesitant about boat cruises," Hansen smiled. "What if you got on a boat cruise with a bunch of dickheads, how do you get away from them (laughs)? But no, look, these boats are big enough. It's not just a little tinny going around the harbour. We're really looking forward to it."In the full interview, Gavin talks more about The Poor's next two hometown shows at Mo's Desert Clubhouse (August 7) and the Koala Tavern (August 9) and how they will likely be the last chance this year the people of Brisbane and the Gold Coast get the chance to catch The Poor in their element. We discussed Matt leaving in greater detail and meet his replacement, while also looking into the fallbacks of changing band members that most of the public don't see.We talked about their upcoming shows with Rose Tattoo, Adelaide's Rock Hard Festival, supporting up-and-coming Australian bands, the increasing lack of respect in the music industry and possible causes of it, new music and future tours, plus more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersAussie punk legends Frenzal Rhomb are the gift that keeps on giving. Just like the Energiser Bunny, the guys seem to just keep on trucking where others half their age would have put up the white flag.Following the near-completed 25 (ish) Anniversary Tour for A Man's Not A Camel, Frenzal have also been invited to fly the flag for the naughty kids left in our generation to play at two of this country's biggest and best music festivals. First, they head to the Northern Territory in September to take their place at Blacken 2025 before getting in some well-deserved R & R leading up to the double header of Froth & Fury shows early next year in Perth on January 24 and Adelaide on January 31.Not bad for a band who were playing other great festivals such as Livid around the turn of the century!While their music has an irresistibly infectious charm to it, there's no doubting much of Frenzal Rhomb's staying power is down to their laconic sense of humour and general no fucks given attitude in the face of adversity. Throughout their career, they have offended everyone from radio hosts to television hosts to croupiers at the casino, but, more importantly than that, they have gotten away with it. Which I guess isn't that hard to do when you are able to brush things off with a strum of the guitar and a flash of attitude and move on.That's not to say Frenzal Rhomb are snotty-nosed and disrespectful - although they have more than enough of those attributes to go around - but when you realise that it is possible to have and voice an opinion without being a wanker about it, then the world suddenly opens up, and the walls move out a little.Which is all a long-winded way of saying that Frenzal Rhomb are Australian punk walking dinosaurs for the simple reason that they only take things seriously that are meant to be taken that way and subscribe to the theory that when all else fails play some music and have a laugh and maybe things will turn out not quite as bad as you thought they might be.Which is possibly why they are still welcome at otherwise metal-only gatherings to shoot the shit and play some tunes.HEAVY recently caught up with the man with the flowing locks and the voice of Frenzal Rhomb, Jason Whalley, to talk about the band's enduring legacy and hopefully find out the reasons why the band is still the toast of the music world. With debate already circling around whether Frenzal Rhomb are representing the Froth or the Fury at next year's event, we ask Jason to set the record straight."Oh, listen, we're a big Froth band," he declared. "There's not a lot of Fury going in our world these days, but still a lot of froth."We mention the line-up, which includes Polaris, Soulfly, Nailbomb, Comeback Kid, Lagwagon and In Hearts Wake and ask where Frenzal sits on the musical merry-go-round."I'm looking forward to being the least heavy band on the entire line up," he smiled. "I think it'll be some pleasant relief for people to hear some nice three-part harmonies, a bit of Linda Ronstadt… a bit of The Eagles, maybe?"Which begs the question: is Jason even a fan of heavier music?"Oh God, I don't like any music," he laughed. "No, I do like some heavy music. I feel like when I'm being screamed at for longer than probably 15 minutes, then I start getting the shits. But those 15 minutes are good. When I can't understand one lyric for, 10 to 15 minutes, then I'm like, don't make me look at the Internet to find out what you're saying. I'm just going to assume that you're not a Nazi."In the full interview, we talk about the A Man's (Still) Not A Camel Tour and how it has been going, the fact that Frenzal are still a musical force so deep into their career, why he thinks festival organisers keep asking for Frenzal Rhomb to play on heavier line-ups and where Frenzal sit amongst so much aggression.We talk about the remaining shows of the tour, their smash and grab mission to play in Quebec, how people overseas react to the band's sarcastic sense of humour, the endless possibilities with Anniversary tours, old websites that still have value and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersMumbai-based extreme metal band Gutslit are renowned as India's leading force in brutal death metal and grindcore. Formed in 2007, the quartet—comprising Gurdip Singh Narang (bass), Aaron Pinto (drums), Kaushal LS (vocals), and Prateek Rajagopal (guitar)—is celebrated for their relentless intensity, precise musicianship, and savage songwriting. Their music blends grinding riffs, pummelling blast beats, vicious bass grooves, and chilling guttural vocals, establishing them as a critically acclaimed act in the global extreme metal scene. With a career spanning 18 years, Gutslit has toured extensively, performing in 25 countries, a record for Indian metal bands, including regular European festival runs and a recent Japan tour supporting Nile in October 2024.Now, it's Australia's turn. Gutslit are set to embark on their first-ever Australian tour - titled the Party Down Under '25 tour - this August, marking a significant milestone as they bring their explosive live performances to six cities. Organized by Grindhead Productions, the tour kicks off on August 22, 2025, at The Back Room in Brisbane, featuring support from Australian brutal death metal band Gosika (Wollongong, NSW) and, for the Brisbane show, additional acts Snake Mountain and Nembutolik.HEAVY caught up with Narang and Pinto to find out what we can expect."I formed the band 18 years ago," Narang began, giving us some incite into Gutslit, "with the whole idea of just playing music that we love the most. Back then we started off with brutal death metal and grind, and now we are slowly progressing into thicker versions of death metal and brutal death metal coming together.""When Gutslit started, there was no band who was doing music like what we are doing." Pinto added. "So Gurdip and the previous iteration of Gutslit were the pioneers of brutal death metal and brutal death grind in India."We mention Gutslit's reputation for their intense live shows and ask what we can expect."You have to come down and just throw it out there," Narang replied. "It's all about enjoying the music; it's all about enjoying the multiples. If you're into death metal or brutal death grind or brutal death metal or slam, you're going to get it all."In the full interview, Gurdip and Aaron provided an overview of Gutslit's history, highlighting their influence in the brutal death metal scene in India since 2007 and their connection to Australia dating back to 2012. They detailed the tour's structure, which will feature a mix of songs from previous albums and potential covers, with an emphasis on creating an engaging atmosphere for fans.The band expressed excitement about the local support acts in Brisbane and other cities, and the inclusion of Gosika as the national support act. We talk about touring a country for the first time and how much homework they do before coming, their difficulties in gaining global traction coming from India, new material and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersAmerican progressive metalcore band Born of Osiris are well known for their technical precision. While essentially complex music, Born Of Osiris blend a plethora of styles and influences to devastating effect.Their sound has evolved from post-hardcore/metalcore roots to a signature blend of technical deathcore and progressive elements marked by intricate guitar work, heavy synths, and a mix of guttural and clean vocals. The band has released seven studio albums, with notable works including A Higher Place (2009), The Discovery (2011), and Angel or Alien (2021).Earlier this month, the band released Through Shadows, their seventh studio album and the first as a trio following the departure of longtime guitarist Lee McKinney and keyboardist Joe Buras. The 13-track album, featuring previously released singles like “Torchbearer” (2023), “A Mind Short Circuiting,” “Elevate,” “In Desolation,” and the title track, blends the band's technical metalcore roots with a cinematic, sci-fi aesthetic and a return to their heavier, deathcore-adjacent sound.HEAVY sat down with vocalist Ronnie Canizaro to dive deeper, at one point asking how the newer songs were going over live."When we started playing Elevate, that song just popped off live," he smiled. "You just saw people bouncing and enjoying it, and that's one of my favourite songs to play live right now. It's my first time ever doing cleans on a Born of Osiris album, so I was kind of like, are people going to like this? But at the same time, I just wanted to do it because that's what I wanted to do. And I want to try new things. And yeah, those songs go over great live. Songs like A Mind Short Circuiting, that's just a very brutal, technical song and people are headbanging to every song so far. I feel when we play the newer stuff you can hear a difference compared to the older stuff. You can tell we're getting better at our craft."In the full interview, Ronnie talked about the early reception for Through Shadows, the prolonged release schedule and if it was planned that way and whether it gets easier or harder to come up with fresh material the more you write.We discussed their evolving sound and how they have changed musically over the years, the musical climate that gave birth to the band, how much growth they have left in them as a band and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersSingapore grindcore band Wormrot, known for their intense, fast-paced, and boundary-pushing music, are headed our way for a ferocious double touring bill which also includes Pig Destroyer. Formed in 2007 after the members completed their mandatory national service, Wormrot have released four studio albums and several EPs, touring extensively through Europe and the United States, in the process becoming the first Singaporean act to play at the Glastonbury Festival.Following the recent reuniting of the original line-up, the band have spent the first part of 2025 touring the UK and Europe and after a couple of months to refresh hit Australia in September.Guitarist Rasyid joined HEAVY to talk about the tour. We ask about their pairing with Pig Destroyer and the relationship between the two bands."We have played before together," he nodded. "It was on the Napalm Death campaign for the Musical Destruction Tour. Before that I was acquainted with Adam Jarvis through Misery Index so then we started talking, and we took the Pig Destroyer on the tour bus. It was fun. Nice guys and we are quite excited to see them again."We ask what Aussie fans can expect from Wormrot live."We just play hard and fast," Rasyid grinned. "I don't know what else to say, we just play hard and fast. We try to do a curated set with less talk in between and just more attack, so we'll see (laughs)."In the full interview, Rasyid spoke about the upcoming tour and what to expect, the reuniting of himself with the other two original band members and Wormrot's recent live album TNT, noting that the setlist for the Australian shows will differ from that. He also discussed the current music scene in Singapore, highlighting the decline of metal culture since the band's inception in 2007, while punk and hardcore shows remain popular. Rasyid acknowledged the challenges of establishing a global presence without local peers and mentioned that their increasing recognition in Europe and the US is beginning to resonate back home. The band is currently focused on touring and plans to start writing new music in early 2024.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersTransvision Vamp were the buzz band of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Fronted by the raunchy, attitude laden Wendy James and backed by a catchy assembly of songs, Transvision Vamp cornered every section of the market. Their pop/punk rebelliousness outlined through songs such as Baby I Don't Care, I Want Your Love and The Only One resonated through disenfranchised youth everywhere, while their music videos dominated RAGE and other music programs thanks to their colourful and suggestive content.Put simply, they were a breath of fresh air on an otherwise stagnating music scene and culture. Women everywhere wanted to be Wendy James and men everywhere just wanted her. It was the perfect chemical reaction to fit in with the times and that momentum carried Transvision Vamp through two successful albums and worldwide tours. By the mid to late 1990s Transvision Vamp had parted ways but their legacy has endured.Now, 27 years after their last visit, Transvision Vamp are headed back Down Under for a headline run of shows next February, with Brisbane already sold out. HEAVY recently had the pleasure of spending time with Wendy James to talk about the tour and anything else we threw at her."I think it's because we were a raunchy rock and roll pop band," she replied when we ask why crowds in Australia loved Transvision Vamp so much. "We had the tunes, but we also had a quite upfront attitude. Everyone loves the scream of Baby I Don't Care and the melodies and everything, but I think they also really loved the attitude that we came with."We ask what fans can expect from the shows, given there has been almost 30 years since Transvision Vamp last played here."I'm bringing the goods with me," James affirmed. "Fully locked and loaded, real hardcore. And when I say hardcore, I mean incredible musicians. Not just people that can hold down a 4-4 beat and play three chords. These are... they're monsters. They're killers. So I expect that we should be able to walk on stage and by the time you leave you'll be hot, sweaty, exhausted and jubilant."In the full interview, Wendy spoke more about the tour and what to expect, the set list and what could be in it, whether this is just a one off reunion tour or if the possibility of Transvision Vamp returning for an album is on the cards, the ealy days of the band and where they fit in, how they got signed to EMI Records, their look and how natural that was, their early success and how it affected the band, her solo career and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris Peters Alice Cooper was set loose on the world in the mid to late 1960s, and it is fair to say the music world has never been the same since. Blending rock music with ghoulish tales of the macabre backed up by a live show that pushed every conceivable boundary of the time, Alice Cooper soon became the man (band) people hated to love. His elaborate set pieces, including the infamous guillotine beheading cornerstone of his live show, gave birth to legend, and it is a testament to the enduring legacy of the great man that he continues unabated to this day. While Alice Cooper will always be the one in the public eye, much of his early success was largely due to the band he assembled around him - lead guitarist Glen Buxton, rhythm guitarist Michael Bruce, bassist Dennis Dunaway, and drummer Neal Smith - who recorded with Cooper for the first seven albums, including School's Out and Billion Dollar Babies. While their departure after Muscle Of Love in 1973 didn't affect Cooper's career trajectory, it still marked the end of an era, one which is still held fondly by earlier fans of the band. After half a century without officially fully reuniting, the Alice Cooper Band returned earlier this year with the announcement of a new album, The Revenge Of Alice Cooper, and a return to the sound that paved the way for generations of budding rock stars the world over. In a truly special moment, the album features a posthumous appearance by Glen Buxton, the band's original guitarist who passed away in 1997, through an unreleased recording that seamlessly blends the past with the present on What Happened To You, featuring his original guitar part. Alice, Neal, Michael, and Dennis reunited with their producer Bob Ezrin in an old-school recording studio in Connecticut, rekindling the magic from the 70s. This album is a celebration of friendship, nostalgia, and the timeless sound that solidified Alice Cooper as a rock icon. Fans can expect a powerful and nostalgic experience that bridges the gap between the band's storied past and their vibrant present. HEAVY was fortunate enough to spend time chatting with all three returning members in a riotous and informative 20-odd-minute interview that felt like it was only five. We ask if this reunion was something that they always thought would happen one day, or if it came as a surprise. "No, we didn't know it was gonna happen," Dunaway smiled. "We thought it was gonna happen a couple of times over the decades, and then it didn't. So this was kind of like another one of those. We weren't popping any champagne until we actually were in the studio recording." "And even when we were in the studio recording, the mixes didn't happen until about a year later," Smith interjected. "So… We were more like, I wanna see the album cover in my hands before I believe it, which I have now (laughs)." In the full interview the band talks more about The Revenge Of Alice Cooper and getting the original band back together, if they had all been in contact over the years, the musical side of the album and how it harks back to the early days of the band, how easy they slipped back into the groove and jamming out to the first song back. We also spoke of the loss of Glen Buxton and how they managed to include his work on this album, the glory days of the band, what they think the band's musical legacy will be, working with Alice and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersAfter conquering the rest of the world on the back of their smash hit album Ghost Code in 2023, Swedish rock outfit Smash Into Pieces are turning their sights to Australia, announcing their first-ever trip to our shores next month.A band renowned for their spectacular live performances, Smash Into Pieces are bringing their new-look, latest production ArmaHeaven Prophecy here for three select shows starting in Melbourne on August 22 – a high-intensity experience of music and stunning visuals that embodies their motto: “don't let anything stand between you and your dreams… if it does, smash it into pieces”."In the world of ArmaHeaven, a new reality is born through AI – only to be threatened by the very force that created it," so the story goes. "The prophecy has been written… but it can still be altered. This is more than a concert. It's a message. A warning. A choice … The ninth chapter begins now. Join the movement. Alter the prophecy."With a new album in the can and the band primed for their debut Down Under performances, frontman Chris Adam sat down with HEAVY, where we grilled him from the start, demanding to know why the band have neglected Australia for 17 years."I guess we… I mean, it's a good question," he replied. "Ever since the start with Smash Into Pieces, the analytics have shown that you are in the top 10 countries for us. I guess when we were kinda new as a band, we couldn't really afford to get there, and we didn't really sell tickets. So it's a mix between those two. The interest has always been there to go there, but, as I said, that's the reasons why we couldn't get there before. But now it's time. We own our music. We own everything in the company, so now we can afford certain things. It's time. It's definitely time to go there."The ArmaHeaven Prophecy is a conceptually based production centring on AI and the threats it poses to the human race, leading us to ask if the whole show - inclusive of visuals and lyrics - is part of the concept."We have had this storytelling from the beginning," Adam measured, "and ever since we started doing the new album. So it's definitely in the lyrics, but we're also tweaking it so it's not too much singing about a computer. It's more flirting with the concept and the ideas we have. We always try, with our lyrics, to be not taken too far, so people can resonate with their own thing to it."In the full interview, Chris talks more about the upcoming tour and what to expect, how the music fits in with the conceptual idea, how it represents a "bold new era of storytelling and sound" and elaborates further on the conceptual story. He runs us through the music that makes up the live show and if it is all new or a mixture across their catalogue, the new album and what to expect, the temptation to rehash the successful formula of Ghost Code and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Angela CroudaceSwedish rock juggernauts The Hives are currently storming stages across Australia, kicking off a tour that feels like both a celebration of their legacy and a fiery new beginning. Speaking from his hotel in Perth with a view of “rivers and mountains,” guitarist Niklas Arson exuded gratitude and excitement about being back down under.“This tour kind of feels like we're both starting the new record and finishing the last one,” Arson explained. The band's latest release, The Hives Forever Forever The Hives, is packed with high-energy tracks—most brand new, with just a few songs like Paint a Picture having existed in live form before. “We don't just throw songs together—we make albums,” he said, revealing their meticulous approach to sequencing and flow."Despite over 30 years as a band, The Hives show no signs of slowing down. “It feels more like a beginning,” Arson insisted. “We like doing The Hives more than not doing The Hives.” That passion remains their driving force—and it shows. Each show is performed with full-throttle intensity, something Arson says is crucial: “Touring at 70% capacity would suck. You have to pour everything into it.”Australia holds a special place in the band's heart, from mangoes and surfboards to the rock-loving fans (after some confusion on whether Sweden had mangoes, Nik kindly let me know they do in fact have mangoes there, but not the trees!). “It's a country where there's rockers,” Arson said with a grin. The band's first Aussie visit in 2001 left such a mark that they continue returning with enthusiasm.Collaborations on the new record include industry heavyweights like Mike D (Beastie Boys) and Josh Homme (Queens of the Stone Age), both of whom brought unique energy to the studio. Yet, Arson emphasises that the sound remains purely The Hives—tight, explosive, and always crowd-focused.As they gear up to support My Chemical Romance in South America next year, The Hives are proving they're not just survivors of the rock ‘n' roll era—they're lifers. And right now, Australia is getting the full force of their never-ending sonic assault.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersGerman dark rock outfit Lord Of The Lost struck gold with their 2022 album Blood & Glitter carrying the band into the 2023 ESC finals and into the hearts and ears of a more mainstream market. It was a fitting reward for the band who had toiled hard without overwhelming success over six previous albums, emphatically announcing Lord Of The Lost to a wider market that grew to connect with the band on a deeper level.Rather than rehash what was obviously a winning formula, Lord Of The Lost have returned to their darker, atmospheric roots for their upcoming album OPVS NOIR Vol. 1, which is out on August 8. They have also played it far from safe by declaring it the first of a trilogy concept series of albums that promise to explore opposing sides of their musical psyche over the journey.HEAVY sat down with vocalist Chris Harms to find out more, at one point asking Harms if it was tempting to stick to what had already worked for the band."Yeah, of course," he answered honestly. "All the experts in the industry said this was the most successful album and was the number one record, and it broke all our records, so just keep going that way. Just stay in the lane. Some even saidthat  after so many years of searching for something new, and always trying something new, finally, it was the most successful in the mainstream. And we were like, okay, do you think that we always changed because we were searching for the one recipe? And now we found it, and we stay like that? They were like, yeah, of course, otherwise, why would you change all the time? And we said because that's what artists do. Some people really think that we always tried something new because we were looking for some kind of recipe. Look at David Bowie. Do you think he did all genres that exist in the world because he was looking for success? Or do you think he did that because he just wanted to explore the space? He followed his heart, and this is what we do."In the full interview, Chris provided an overview of Lord of the Lost's upcoming album, Opus Noir, Vol. 1, set for release on August 8. He described the album as an emotional journey that explores themes of darkness and beauty, incorporating orchestral elements and film score influences to create a rich sound. The singles My Sanctuary and I Will Die In It were highlighted as representative of the album's diverse emotional landscape, with My Sanctuary serving as an entry point and I Will Die In It embodying the core emotional essence. Chris also discussed the song Ghosts, featuring cellist Tina Guo, emphasizing her contribution to the emotional depth of the music and its alignment with the overall essence of OPVS Noir.The discussion further delved into the trilogy concept behind the album, with Chris explaining that the band wrote 34 songs during the creative process, ultimately deciding to release them as three interconnected albums. He noted that all albums were recorded simultaneously to capture a specific moment in their lives. We also spoke about their upcoming tour of Australia and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersAmerican metalcore outfit Fit For A King have never backed away from allowing their music the time and space it needs to breathe.Since unleashing their debut album Descendants in 2011, the band have experimented with a variety of sounds and genres, often overlapping them with each other and harnessing the resulting unpredictability into an ever-evolving sonic palette of metalcore unpredictability, alternative melody, and deathcore brutality laced with electronic alchemy.Fourteen years after embracing their destiny, Fit For A King stand on the cusp of unveiling their eighth album Lonely God, boasting all of the sonic hallmarks Fit For A King fans have come to know and love — gnarly riffs, guttural growls, deep grooves, and a slightly industrial crunch that takes things to the next level, every single time - with some expected moderations.Frontman Ryan Kirby joined HEAVY to go into greater detail."I feel good," he enthused when asked about the new album. "I'm always eager to get the new record out once we start rolling it out."We ask what fans can expect from the album musically."This time around, we just wanted to not have any agendas," he replied. "We just wanted to write music that we enjoy writing, and I think it turned out that way. I think because of that, the record is my personal favourite that we've ever written."In the full interview, Ryan dives deeper into Lonely God, including the singles released and how they represent the album as a whole. He mentions the difficulty in selecting songs to release because of the eclectic nature of their music, insisting fans don't fall into the trap of assuming the rest of the album is just a rehash of the songs released from it.He talked about the album opener Begin The Sacrifice and why it was chosen as the first song, how Lonely God differs to 2022's The Hell We Create, the performance of The Plot In You vocalist Landon Tewers on Technium and the close relationship the two bands have, their upcoming Australian tour together, their version of genre mashing and how it comes together in the creative process, playing all ages shows and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Angela CroudaceThe metal landscape changed forever in 2005 when a hard rock/metal outfit called Five Finger Death Punch took their first tentative steps in music from Las Vegas. A town normally more known for its casinos and nightlife, Las Vegas was soon forced to share its traditional draw cards with an unrelenting and destructive sonic force that refused to watch the world pass them by, instead deciding to make their presence felt by any means necessary.Led by the only two surviving original members - vocalist Ivan Moody and rhythm guitarist Zoltan Bathory - Five Finger Death Punch quickly rose to prominence, with their 2007 debut album The Way Of The Fist selling over 500,00 copies before the 2009 follow-up War Is the Answer further increased their popularity, selling over 1,000,000 copies and being certified Platinum by the RIAA. The bands next five albums - American Capitalist, The Wrong Side of Heaven and the Righteous Side of Hell, Volume 1 (2013), The Wrong Side of Heaven and the Righteous Side of Hell, Volume 2 (2013), Got Your Six (2015), plus And Justice for None (2018) have all been certified Platinum or Gold, elevating Five Finger Death Punch into the upper echelon of hard rock/metal bands.To celebrate their plethora of achievements over the last two decades, which include victories in esteemed awards such as Revolver Golden Gods and Metal Hammer Golden Gods, Five Finger Death Punch are releasing Best Of – Volume 1, a collection of re-recorded versions of their most iconic chart-topping songs. The idea of a remix or remaster wasn't enough, so the band created a completely re-recorded 2025 edition to honour the songs and the fans who have made them matter by being with Five Finger Death Punch every step of the way.HEAVY had the pleasure of spending time with Zoltan Bathory to get a glimpse inside the world of Five Finger Death Punch and 20 years at the top of their game. We ask him to look back at the early days and the point where he felt Five Finger Death Punch were destined for success."When you say it's going to last… we didn't know," he laughed. "We did have a moment, however, where we kind of knew that we had something. It was in the very beginning when we went to the studio to record our first vocal takes. The first record was done in my living room, the whole thing (laughs), so young bands out there, you can do it! We did it in my house, then went to the studio and recorded the first couple of songs, then we went back to my house, and we had a Beavis & Butthead moment. Me and Ivan were jamming and thrashing around in my living room, kicking over couches, screaming 'this is it, it's gonna happen'. So we had that early on. As for how long it's gonna last… I mean, even now I look back and go 'oh my God, 20 years'. It's crazy (laughs)."In the full interview, Zoltan talks more about the history of Five Finger Death Punch, their success, the new best of album and re-recording old material, their loyal fan base, plus plenty more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersAfter making their name on the back of high-energy, hard-hitting music, Long Beach, California rockers Of Limbo are pulling the reins somewhat on their upcoming release, Unplugged, which you can check out here: https://linktr.ee/OflimboRather than continue their relentless barrage of sonic intensity, Of Limbo have decided to strip things back to their bare minimum, assembling a collection of original tracks and select covers that showcase the lighter sides to their musical psyche and offer fans a more vulnerable and softer underbelly.It is an uncommon move from a band not known for their acoustic playing, but one which proves how confident Of Limbo are, not just in themselves, but also in their music.With the album almost upon us - released July 18 - HEAVY caught up with vocalist/rhythm guitarist Jake Davies to dive deeper."We grew up just absolutely adoring the MTV Unplugged era, especially the Alice in Chains stuff," he replied when we asked what was behind the decision to make an acoustic album. "I must have listened to that live album thousands of times in my life, so we've always really liked it. And there was a stint in time when the electric version of our band wasn't able to perform. Our drummer was away, stuff like that. So we just started jamming with our friend Jason (Klein, bass) who used to be famous for being in the Butcher Babies years ago. I started jamming with Jason, just doing sort of acoustic stuff, and we really got a taste for it because as much fun as the live electric rock and roll party stuff is that we do, there's a real romance to playing the acoustic stuff."In the full interview, Jake focused on the upcoming release of Of Limbo's Unplugged album, scheduled for July 18, outlining their strategy of prioritising physical sales over streaming to foster a deeper connection with their audience. The album will feature six original songs and three covers, with the decision to adopt an acoustic style inspired by the MTV Unplugged era.We spoke further about doing an acoustic album and the potential risks involved, as well as running through each of the three cover songs and why they were chosen. Jake talked about his time in Australia and desire to return with the band, as well as some upcoming Of Limbo shows in America and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Angela CroudaceSimple Plan have always worn their hearts on their sleeves - but with their new documentary The Kids in the Crowd, drummer Chuck Comeau says the band has truly peeled back the curtain. The film, marking their 25-year legacy, is an emotional deep-dive into the highs, lows, and brotherhood that's defined the Canadian pop-punk juggernaut.Chuck described the process as “a joy” but also “really difficult,” recounting the overwhelming task of sorting through decades of footage—some of which dated back to him and frontman Pierre Bouvier's first ever band when they were just teenagers. “It's hard to condense 25 years into an hour and a half,” he said. “It's literally your entire life.”One particularly moving discovery came late in the process - hidden in a box in Chuck's parents' basement. “It was our first show ever… in our friend's basement, playing Basket Case by Green Day,” Chuck recalled. “It was so innocent, and yet so similar to what we do now.”The documentary doesn't shy away from the band's internal struggles, either, including the at times rocky dynamics between Chuck and Pierre. “We had a massive fight. I got kicked out of the band,” Chuck admitted. “But going through that taught us how to keep this thing alive.”Just as crucial to the film are Simple Plan's fans. For Chuck, the bond with their audience, many of whom have leaned on the band's music during life's darkest moments, is sacred. “They've told us we saved their lives,” he shared. “That comes with responsibility. You don't take that lightly.”Their new single, Nothing Changes, featured on the film's soundtrack, was written as a reflection on their past - and a reminder that Simple Plan isn't stuck there. “It was important to not just become a fossil,” Chuck said. “This film celebrates where we've been, but it also kicks off what comes next.”After 25 years, Simple Plan is still that band for the outsiders, the dreamers - and the kids in the crowd.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersFor a quarter of a century, American rock outfit The Used have dominated the global rock landscape, delivering countless albums that not only helped shape the course of musical history but also helped shape the lives of a good deal of music fans the world over.Bursting onto the scene with their self-titled debut album in 2002, The Used transcended normal music prejudices to become favourites of both consumers of music and critics, finding that elusive formula early on in their career while most bands finish their tenure still oblivious to how to find it.From The Used, the band went on to release In Love And Death in 2004, somehow topping the heights achieved on their first album, before solidifying their stature amongst the rock elite with 2007's Lies For The Liars. Now, in celebration of 25 years atop their field, The Used bring the party to Australia in a unique run of shows that sees them perform each of those three albums in their entirety in each capital city.Such is the demand for these special shows that several more have had to be added, more than half of which have already sold out. HEAVY recently sat down with bass player Jepha to dive deeper into the idea and the celebrations that look set to continue for some time yet."I'm excited, I'm ready to go," he enthused when we began. "We just ended a full US version, and we went to Europe for a few dates, then we took this month off, and now I'm already itching to go back out and move to Australia for a bit (laughs)."We mention the fact that more than half of the 21 shows are already sold out and ask how good it feels to know that people on the other side of the world are so hungry for their arrival."It's really exciting," Jepha smiled. "The best part is for our singer - because he lives in Sydney and has been out there about ten years now - he always has to come to us to rehearse and practice and everything, so he's always jet-lagged. Now the joke's on us that we are all flying over and will be jet-lagged and fucked the whole time, and he is going to be spot on (laughs)."Having had to add so many extra shows, The Used will now be in Australia for almost one month, so we ask Jepha if the band had already planned or budgeted in that extra time away from home."We didn't expect this much," he laughed. "We didn't expect it to go this long and to have multiple dates added and a lot of places selling out. That's all… not a shock… it's all better than we imagined."In the full interview, Jepha talks more about the tour and what fans can expect, learning the first three albums in full and any difficulties faced plus how the band will approach each night and bring their best to each performance.We dive deeper into each of the three albums and what they mean to The Used, his memories of recording each, the musical shift between each and how that reflected the growth of The Used musically, new music and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Angela CroudaceDark fantasy rockers Blackbriar are known for weaving rich, cinematic soundscapes and fairytale-inspired tales into their music, and their new album A Thousand Little Deaths is no exception. Vocalist Zora Cock and guitarist René Boxem sat down to reflect on the band's creative process, the emotional depth behind the music, and hopes to finally reach fans Down Under.Zora, who pens all the lyrics before music is composed, shared that inspiration often comes from folklore, history, and personal metaphor. “I usually see visuals in my head very quickly after writing the lyrics,” she said, highlighting the band's filmic aesthetic. Their music video for Harpy, hand-drawn frame by frame by their own creative team, reflects this commitment to authenticity, just pure, painstaking artistry.The band remains deeply grounded despite their viral success with Until Eternity. “It took months before anything happened,” René recalled, “then suddenly it skyrocketed. It changed everything.”Their bond with fans is a cornerstone of their identity, from Discord chats to cherished fan gifts like a sword engraved with song lyrics and even a rare turtle coin (literally a medallion emblazoned with a turtle that I definitely want to do more research on). “We keep everything,” Zora laughed. “It really means a lot.”Australia is very much on their radar. A planned tour fell through due to the pressure of filling venues, but the dream is alive. “We'd love to come—maybe as a support act or for a festival first,” said René.As for A Thousand Little Deaths, Zora hopes listeners feel the same shivers she did on first listen. “Some songs brought me to tears. It's deeply personal. I just hope it makes people feel something.”And for Australian fans? Keep your ears open and your turtle coins ready…Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersMelbourne pop/punk/emo/rock outfit This Space Is Ours have rapidly built a name for themselves since kicking off in 2021. Backing up a string of energetic singles with a succession of memorable live performances, the band have steadily been building their name through a growing number of live shows, including sharing the stage with Bad/Love and Future Static, and in 2024 they celebrated a sold-out first headline show.But now the band are ready to expose a darker side to their light. A heavier, darker side that introduces itself courtesy of the band's upcoming single Picture Perfect Paper People, which will be premiered via HEAVY on 16/07/25 before being unleashed on the world the following day.HEAVY caught up with vocalist Gemma Dunsmore to go into greater detail."In the past, our singles before this year were more pop punk-esque," she explained, "and with these new singles and our upcoming EP, we wanted to move the instrumentation to be more heavy, while still keeping this emo tone to the vocals. So we got this cool contrast going, and this third single really cements that."As a young emerging band, the pressures on new material are overwhelming, especially in the current saturated environment. As such, we ask Dunsmore how much thought and planning went into releasing their first body of work."We had heaps of conversations around it," she affirmed. "Me (sic) and the bassist were more on the pop-punk side, wanting to stay a little bit more pop-ish, and then the guitarists grew up listening to prog and metalcore, and they were pushing for this heavier sound (laughs). So there was a lot of conversation to try and find a place that worked for everyone, and I reckon we got there."In the full interview, Gemma introduced their new single, Picture Perfect Paper People, and described the evolution of their sound towards a heavier style in their upcoming EP set for release in September. She emphasized the importance of organization and collaboration in the EP's planning process and hinted at a show in October, also exclusively releasing the EP title.The conversation also covered the creation of their music videos, with a focus on the DIY approach for Gone In May and the fun elements in My Name. We spoke more about what to expect musically from the upcoming EP, what is on the horizon for This Space Is Ours, including upcoming shows and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersNew Zealand's finest exports Devilskin have epitomized everything rock and metal ever since unleashing their debut album We Rise on the world eleven years ago. Not only did their high energy and infectious brand of metal resonate with hometown music lovers, but it also quickly spread on a global level, resulting in the band supporting and touring with established acts such as Slash and Halestorm.Such was the popularity of Devilskin following We Rise that the band became the first New Zealand rock/metal outfit in 18 years to go Platinum, equalling the effort of the mighty Shihad with the album Killjoy. Over the years singles such as Never See The Light, Little Pills, Start A Revolution, Endo and a cover of Heart's classic, Barracuda, have highlighted the personal nature of Devilskin's music as well as the sonic diversity at their disposal.Eleven years after the release of the groundbreaking We Rise, Devilskin return with Re-Evolution, an album that has already been credited with displaying just how far Devilskin have come in 15 years. This is a bold and dynamic perspective of Devilskin and their continued growth plus the reinvention, and the re-evolution of the band as songwriters and as artists.With Re-Evolution dropping today, July 11, HEAVY spent some time with bass player Paul Martin to dig deeper. We start by asking how he is feeling with the release date finally here."It's good, man," he smiled. "It's like that painful bit where you're in labour, and this beautiful product's about to pop out, but at the moment it's like getting everything squeezed into the right places and mailing everything out. Man, we've had so many orders from all over the world, so I've been busy licking stamps and sealing envelopes (laughs)."We ask about two of the singles - Swelter, and Half Life of Dreams - and if they are a good sonic representation of what to expect."I think there's a little bit of everything on this album," Paul measured. "I don't think there's two songs that are quite alike, they're all kind of different in their own way. It's a glimpse into what's on the album, definitely. With the whole album, we wanted to be bold. We just wanted everything to be… we just wanted more of everything."In the full interview, we discussed Re-Evolution in greater detail, including the title of the album, and it's significance to the band. We spoke about the opening song, Red, and why it was chosen as an introduction to the body of music plus Devilskin's growth in their musical journey to date asnd how much growth is left in them.Talk also centred on how the new songs went down live on their rTalk also centred on how the new songs went down live on their recent New Zealand Tour, the guest parts from Nik Barker (12 Foot Ninja) and Joe Hottinger (Halestorm) and what each brought to the song, their recent People's Choice Award victory at the AMA Awards and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Angela CroudaceAnn Arbor's Black Note Graffiti have always walked a tightrope between ferocity and finesse. With their latest album, Resist the Divide, guitarist Kris Keller says the band found its most personal and cathartic voice yet. “We were all going through different things—addiction, trauma, life's heavier moments—and the album became a space for us to release that,” Keller shares. “It's the best record I've ever been a part of.”Working with renowned producer Josh Schroeder (Lorna Shore, King 810), the band took a month in the studio to carefully craft a sound that truly represented each member. “Josh really listened. Every instrument, every voice, got its moment.”Resist the Divide tackles pain, growth, and redemption with thunderous riffs and introspective lyrics. But despite its weight, the band's goal remains connection and unity. “We're a hard rock band, but the message is positive. We want people to feel less alone.” Keller credits the addition of vocalist Gabrielle Bryant for bringing new balance and heart to the lineup. “She brought out the best in us—there's more focus now, more soul.”Their partnership with Australian label Golden Robot Records also hints at dreams beyond the States. “An Aussie tour would be a dream,” Keller says. “Never thought I'd play the stages I have, so who knows? Maybe one day.”Meanwhile, Black Note Graffiti will appear at Wisconsin's artist-centric Mile of Music festival this August. “It's amazing—300 artists, free for fans, and they take such good care of musicians. It's one of the best festivals we've played.” For vinyl lovers, Resist the Divide is also available in limited edition. “We wrote the album to be played through, front to back. Vinyl just made sense—it's an experience.”With music that's loud, raw, and real, Black Note Graffiti continues to carve their space beyond rock music in the hearts of fans seeking something true. Having done so well in Europe and the U.S., I think it's about time these guys have their Aussie moment, give them a listen. I think you'll be blown away by their intensity, heart, and undeniable talent.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersPromises are made and broken every day in the music industry, especially when it comes to comments made from stage in the heat of the moment and on the crest of emotion. Promises such as "we will be back REAL soon" are said so often that they mostly pass by unnoticed by fans, who have grown accustomed to living in the moment and not in the future where such remarks are directed.But when a band actually delivers on these promises - not once, but twice - then the shockwaves that resonate could cripple a small country.Which is why, when Don Broco promised on their last Australian tour that they would start their next World Tour in this country, most fans had forgotten the remark as soon as the next day. When they also promised to play Perth and Adelaide, both of which were excluded in the last tour itinerary, the collective sighs of 'yeah, sure' were barely muttered because, let's face it, such promises are made and broken by more than 50% of the bands who tour here.But not Don Broco. These guys are still old school. From the times when a promise meant something, so, true to their word, Don Broco are kicking off their next World Tour in Australia starting on September 4. AND Perth plus Adelaide are both part of the schedule. Who says you can't trust a muso?After spending a large amount of time on the road around the time they were out here last, Don Broco have been more focused on completing their fifth album of late, bunkering down and fine-tuning the next batch of songs to expand their impressive catalogue. But ever since their recent performance at Download 2025, the tour itches have returned, enticing Don Broco back to where they thrive best.The stage.With the tour only being announced earlier today, HEAVY caught up with vocalist Rob Damiani to find out more."We're heading back to Australia very soon indeed," he affirmed. "It's going to be the first tour back touring this new material. We've been working on a new album for the last year and a bit now, and it's very, very close to being finished. This will be the first time we actually get back on the road and play any of this new stuff. It's also the first time we've been on the road for a year and a half, so we're excited.""We've been lucky enough to come to Australia now once every album," he continued. "The times we had on the last record, and the shows we did, were just so good. And the energy out there is so insane. We didn't want to leave it a whole nother album, where you're maybe doing it towards the tail end. So even though I think that not all the record will be out, it will be a load of the new material - probably all of the singles - but not the full record. That's what we're here to do; that's when we feel most alive as a band, when we're performing to people and getting that connection."In the full interview, Rob talked more about the upcoming tour and what to expect, keeping his promises, how much planning and practice goes into a Don Broco live show, the new album and what to expect, what makes a gig even more memorable for him, their 2023 shows at The Royal Albert Hall with an orchestra and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersAround the turn of the century, a movie came out that changed the face of comedy forever. A movie about teenagers trying to find sexual gratification was not a new concept - hell, such movies were around before movies even - but this one resonated with disenfranchised youth the world over.And lovers of good old-fashioned Apple Pie the universe over.That movie was American Pie, and the main actors that brought us that wonderful tale of self-discovery will forever be etched into cinema folklore as a benchmark for excess and desire - and more than the occasional mishap along the way.While Stifler (Seann William Scott) and the luckless in love Jim (Jason Biggs) might be the perennial favourites of the franchise, not enough people know or understand that American Pie was more about a fresh college teenager who was simply trying to find a way to please his girlfriend. An impressionable young lad by the name of Kevin (Thomas Ian Nicholas), who not only narrated the movie, but also provided many of the warmer moments - although not as warm as Jim's brief moment of intimacy with said Apple Pie.And just to make sure we all know his name and importance to the franchise, Nicholas is returning to Australia next week for a limited round of American Pie Emo Night shows that bring you closer to the star than ever before.Performing a combination of movie screenings, live band performances, meet and greets and Q & A sessions, Nicholas returns after only a brief absence for unfinished business. HEAVY jumped at the chance to pick his brain for 15 minutes, which turned into a lazy thirty, ahead of the run of shows which kicks off at La La La's in Wollongong on July 16."People watch the film, and they go, oh, shit, I didn't realize that this is Kevin's movie," Nicholas laughed. "So my favourite part about American Pie Emo Night is reminding everyone, yeah, motherfucker, that was my movie (laughs). That's why you liked it. I know Jason Biggs was funny, but he was funny because I was telling the story. Everyone remembers the cherry on top or the frosting. So Stifler's the cherry on top, Jim is the frosting, and I'm the cake."We mention the fact that this will be Nicholas's second trip Down Under this year, to which - of course - he has a reasonable reply."The thing is that I worked for 10 years from 2015 to 2025 to get my first tour in Australia," he explained. "So many failed attempts, but I never give up. This is retribution. When you work hard at something, you may not get it when you want it, but eventually the landslide happens. So I'm making up for lost time."In the full interview, Thomas talked more about his limited run of shows and what to expect, his love for his fans and providing the best show possible every time. He ran us through each section of the show and how it has evolved to this point, highlighting the live music aspect and his original music.We engage more about American Pie and his feelings for the movie and his fellow co-stars, the timeless nature of the movie's comedy and sets the rumours straight (sort of) about the much-debated 'new' movie. We run through challenges posed by being an actor in the music industry and vice versa, some of his more memorable moments on stage, including a special request from Creed, how the upcoming shows will differ from last time he was here and more.Photo: @captured_chrisberryBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersMelbourne rock outfit HZED are ready for a triumphant return to the Australian music scene with the release of their first new music in some time in the form of Heartbreaker.After undergoing personnel changes in recent years, HZED busied themselves and polished their unity by releasing live versions of previous songs recorded during that time, but with Heartbreaker they are back with a fresh, revitalised sound and renewed focus that should see the band quickly establish themselves in the growing pool of Australian talent. After releasing the audio for Heartbreaker on July 4, HZED are now preparing for the launch of the accompanying music video, due out on July 11.HEAVY sat down with Shannon (guitar) and Tenaye (vocals) to find out more."This is the first single we've actually released that's brand new since 2022, with the whole new line-up," Shannon began. "So it's pretty exciting."We ask how the first audio release has been received."It's been great," Shannon continued. "Everybody's loving it. They're loving how big it's sounding and how different we're going.""I think it showcases how much we've evolved as a band and how we've got this whole new era," Tenaye added. "Now that we've got Hannah, we've definitely got a heavier, fuller sound too. And it's really showcased in the single as well."In the full interview, we discussed their strategy of releasing the audio first to generate anticipation before the video launch, with plans to release new singles every three months and potentially an album in the future. We spoke about the video and what to expect, including the basic storyline of the song.We also ran through HZED's upcoming run of shows and what to expect, the future of the band moving forward, and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Angela CroudaceAuri's third album, Candles and Beginnings, invites listeners into a dreamlike, genre-defying realm where emotion, memory, and nature entwine. The trio—Johanna Kurkela, Troy Donockley, and Tuomas Holopainen—embrace an intuitive and organic approach to music-making, shaped by their lifelong influences and an unwavering trust in each other."We don't plan anything," Tuomas explains. "It all comes naturally. Nothing is pre-calculated." The result is an album that resists classification, weaving together airy melodies, earthy rhythms, and moments of heavier intensity.The band doesn't aim to dictate meaning, instead offering their music as an open canvas: "We provide a stage for feelings," says Johanna, "and the interpretations are for the listener." Though some songs echo Celtic elements, the band insists these tones emerge organically. "We don't identify with any genre," says Troy. "We use whatever tools we need to express the emotion."Despite physical distance (Troy often writing at sea, of all places, and Johanna in Kitee), their creative process thrives in isolation. They only come together when it's time to mix. "It's like getting a Christmas present," Johanna smiles, describing the excitement of hearing each other's ideas evolve remotely.A particularly personal track, The Apparition Speaks, stands out for its heavier edge. But for the trio, choosing favourites feels impossible. "They'd get jealous," Tuomas jokes. "We love them all." Visual art also plays a vital role in shaping Auri's universe. The watercolour album artwork was hand-painted, no AI involved, and Johanna's calligraphy adds an intimate touch.As for touring Australia? "We'd love to," says Troy, "but right now, we're not sure we have many fans there." Still, Troy and Tuomas's previous Nightwish tours proved Aussie crowds are "fabulously mental," and they hope to return soon.Auri's music is hard to define but easy to feel, leaving listeners soaring on Johanna's stunning vocals, whilst Troy and Tuomas add melodic and at times heavier elements. Candles and Beginnings is a cinematic listen and an amalgamation of this seriously talented trio. This album doesn't just play, but unfolds like a dream you never want to wake from.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersAt first glance/listen, Melbourne-based experimental collective Umlaut are yet another in a growing line of bands creating 'art' instead of music by throwing together an eclectic grouping of sounds and instruments as their personal choice of expression. Their style and seemingly haphazard musical output is, at first, difficult to take in, but once you find out the backstory to the band things seem to make infinitely more sense and the proverbial penny drops like a lead balloon.All of a sudden, the same music that 60 seconds ago sounded like a layered multitude of messiness now sounds like a Picasso painting would were it able to sing. Why?Because Umlaut's founding member is none other than Clinton ‘Bär' McKinnon. You know the one? The same guy that was a major part of Mr. Bungle's sound before the turn of the century? Except this time as Umlaut prepares to drop their new album Desole there's another person who, by presence alone, helps set the askew things into a more palatable delicacy. His is another name you should recall - especially if you are a Bungle fan.Joining Umlaut with McKinnon - funnily enough, with both of them now living in Australia - is former Mr. Bungle skin thumper Danny Heifitz. Along with Angus Leslie and Shane Lieber, Umlaut's new, more streamlined four-piece are diving headfirst into a new chapter—one forged in chemistry, intuition, and a shared love of unpredictability.With Desole scheduled for a July 25 release, HEAVY was granted exclusive time with McKinnon to discuss a wide range of topics, from the new album to his days with Mr. Bungle and everything in between."This thing has been so delayed and a long time coming," he sighed. "On some levels, I don't even believe that it's going to come out (laughs). I'm hoping that it does!"We ask McKinnon to go deeper into Desole from a musical point of view and what he was going for with it."In the past, it's been a very instrumental, chamber-pop affair with some songs thrown in there with vocals," he measured. "This album is pretty vocal-heavy in a way and straight-ahead in a lot of ways. It's funny, I get these questions like, what is different about this album? And I'm not really sure. The main difference with this album is that it's got the legendary Danny Heifetz on drums from Mr. Bungle, the true DNA of Mr. Bungle. And he's down here in this town with us and has graced us with his drumming on this album. We're really excited about that and people hearing that. I think people will hear that Mr. Bungle DNA in the drums when they hear Danny doing his thing. It's just very straight ahead, it doesn't it doesn't mess around."In the full interview, Clinton discussed further the release of Desolé, humorously critiquing its title and sharing insights into the production challenges they faced. He provided details about the musical style, noting a shift towards a more vocal-heavy and energetic sound, influenced by drummer Danny Heifetz's contributions.Clinton reflected on the emotional journey of releasing music, likening it to a parent's hopes for their child, and discussed the balance between creating hit songs and maintaining authenticity. He emphasized the collaborative nature of Umlaut, highlighting the importance of each member's input, particularly guitarist Angus's production skills. The conversation also touched on the desire for listeners to appreciate the album as a whole rather than just singles, with HEAVY endorsing the album's quality and encouraging the band to continue their creative efforts.Talk also turned to Mr. Bungle's tenure as a band, including some funny insights into his relationship with Mike Patton. We spoke about Bungle's legacy and what they brought to music and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersUS party rock outfit The Midnight Devils are a band who seem to be always on the move. Follow their socials, and hardly a week goes by without another gig in another part of the world popping up, with the good time trio operating by the old school mantra that a band lives and dies on the road, bleeding for their art.After two previous visits Down Under, The Midnight Devils have today announced a run of shows this November, following on from last year's highly successful national support with Bon But Not Forgotten. But this time they return with fellow US rock outfit BLVD OF EYES, joining Brisbane noise merchants Awaken The Hate on an East Coast tour to remember.The two bookend dates announced so far already promise to be huge, with a cruise of the Sydney Harbour alongside Frankies World Famous House Band, Audio Reign and more set down for November 23 and a massive one-day festival line-up including Dreamkillers, PistonFist, Engraved, Kaosphere and more set down for Soapbox Beer in Brisbane on November 29. There will, of course, be other dates, but for now let's just celebrate the fact that The Midnight Devils are coming back.HEAVY caught up with enigmatic frontman Sam Spade to share the excitement."We've been on tour since basically we left Australia," Spade began. "We're on tour right now, and we can't wait to come back and see you guys. It's like a dream come true, over and over and over again. We are so excited. We can't get there fast enough. This tour is wrapped up right now in the USA, and it's just been incredible supporting that same record that we dropped in Australia the last time we were there, So Hard It Hurts. The brand-new single out is Shock The World, so everything's going great, and we can't wait to come back."In the full interview, we run through the two shows announced in greater detail, discuss The Midnight Devils current US tour, the reception for So Hard It Hurts, the beauty of being on the road, why Australians can't get enough of the band,exciting future plans and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersIf you think you've seen everything live music has to offer, think again. On July 5, Brisbane audiences are in for a jaw-dropping experience as Andrea Krakovská, Australia's very own aerial guitarist, brings her gravity-defying show to the Arcana Empress Theatre in Moorooka.Combining the technical mastery of live electric guitar with breathtaking aerial acrobatics, Andrea Krakovská has carved out a completely unique space in the world of performance. Suspended mid-air, she shreds powerful solos while spinning, soaring and twisting through space. The show is a visual and sonic spectacle that is truly unlike anything else you've seen before.Fresh from wowing crowds across Sydney and Melbourne, Andrea's Aerial Guitar Show is part rock concert, part aerial artistry, and all heart. This is no ordinary gig; it's a full-body performance that pushes the boundaries of what live music can be.For one night only, Brisbane fans have the chance to witness this one-of-a-kind talent up close. Whether you're a fellow guitarist, music lover, circus arts enthusiast, or simply looking for something unforgettable to do on a Saturday night, this is a show you do not want to miss. HEAVY sat down for a chat with Andrea to take us deeper inside the art of the flying guitar."The way that I've been describing the show to people is two ways," she began. "Either I say to them, think of it as going to see a guitarist like Joe Satriani or Steve Vai or Nita Strauss, but imagine that during parts of the show, instead of just staying on the ground the whole time, they will climb up a rope and do some guitar solos in midair. Or the other way that I describe it to people is to think about a Pink concert, and you know how she does the air tricks in her show? Imagine if Pink was a heavy metal guitarist? But the best way to describe it, honestly, is for you to just see the show for yourself. It is hard to really explain the magnitude of the whole show in words, but it really is a visual experience."In the full interview, we discussed Andrea's upcoming aerial guitar performance at the Arcana Empress Theatre in Brisbane on July 5 in more detail. She described her innovative act, which combines original compositions and covers, and walked us through the processes and any safety concerns people might have.The logistical challenges of playing guitar while suspended were also highlighted, showcasing the uniqueness of her performance style. Andrea recalled her training in both components, highlighting which she favours and which is the hardest to do, where the initial idea came from, how much training and practice goes into each performance and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersUS rock outfit BLVD OF EYES have strong ties with this side of the world, with bass player Mark Dalbeth living in Australia and playing in Melbourne band Belusera until he left our shores a decade ago. In that time, Dalbeth has found himself playing in an American band called BLVD OF EYES, who have often proclaimed their desire to visit our shores without much success.But that all changes in November when BLVD OF EYES hit Australia for an East Coast tour with fellow US party machine The Midnight Devils. The bookends of the tour - a Sydney Harbour boat cruise on November 23 and HEAVYFEST 3 in Brisbane on November 29 - have been announced today to align with Independence Day, with the band also planning to fill in the blanks at a later date.But for now, excitement reigns over BLVD OF EYES' debut trip to our shores, with guitarist Kevin Hicklin and Dalbeth joining HEAVY to spread the news."We're excited, man," Hicklin enthused. "Everything just came to fruition pretty quickly, so we're stoked to do it. We're gonna have our new release coming out around that time, so it's gonna be killer."We mention the homecoming of sorts for Dalbeth."The last time I played shows in Australia was, I think, November, December 2015 with Belusera and Halestorm," he nodded. "So literally ten years later, I'm coming back. It's exciting, because I really miss Australia and I look forward to seeing everyone."In the full interview, we spoke more about the Australian tour, what to expect from the band live, their last EP Buying Lies For The Truth Seeker and how it was received, upcoming new music, signing to XMusic and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersEveryone's favourite masters of funk-infused mayhem, Osaka Punch, are one of those rare bands that can entertain you just by walking on stage. Dead set.The charisma and boundless energy that accompany the band everywhere they go translated beautifully on their 2023 album Mixed Ape, an album years in the making and at times thought to be harder to find than the elusive white whale. Fans had waited a decent chunk of time for the album, but responded in kind upon its release, solidifying Osaka Punch as a band for the people, by the… apes?After embarking on a national run of shows to support Mixed Ape, Osaka Punch quietly retreated into the wilderness, family events and accidents superseding the need for public adulation. It has been a dark period for fans of the band wanting to get their funk on, but Osaka Punch this weekend come out of hibernation for what could very well be their only show of the year when they play with Mood Swing And Chevy Bass plus Versace Boys at The Triffid this Saturday, June 5.I must admit that I am one of those people who missed the boys ripping it up live, so when the chance came to grill vocalist Jack Muzak as to why the band have seemingly deserted their fans, I took it with both hands, armed and ready for battle."It's been a while, for sure," he almost apologized when we question their tardiness, catching us off guard. "We've got a couple of cobwebs to blow out, but we've been jamming for a while. We had a little bit of a hiatus because our guitarist had a newborn at the end of last year, and it's his third kid. So he's got two, three boys now, but two kids and a newborn and in the interest of everyone's safety, we thought we'd let him just be a dad for six months. We were planning on recording by the end of this year, which we still want to do. But this'll be probably the one show of the year, I'd say, so we wanted to make it a big one. I think the Triffid's a good way to go. If you're gonna do one show, that's the place to do it."In the full interview, Jack further discussed Osaka Punch's upcoming performance at The Triffid on July 5, where they will perform alongside Mood Swing and Chevy Bass. Jack highlighted the unique line up, featuring a live saxophonist and a keytar player, and expressed excitement about returning to the stage after a hiatus. He also mentioned their guitarist Chrispy's recovery from a car accident and his commitment to performing.The discussion included recommendations for newcomers to their music, with Jack suggesting three songs to help familiarize them with their style. He noted the band's ongoing work on new material and the evolving music landscape, which is shifting towards singles over full albums. We talked about the reaction to Mixed Ape and if all of the songs went down as well live as the band expected, their genuine love for their fans and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersGerman dark heavy rock force WOLFSKULL will drop their new album Midnite Masters on July 25.Midnite Masters will see the band put a bold exclamation mark on their history and simultaneously ignite a new level: ten songs brimming with enthusiasm, power, and catchy melodies, while exuding the raw charm of classic heavy rock. Founded in April 2018 by guitarist and mastermind Feratu, WOLFSKULL immediately garnered attention in the scene with their debut EP, Hexum. The subsequent debut album, Ave Goddess, hit like a thunderclap in December 2022, leading to the band being awarded Album Of The Month in Metal Hammer and Guitar Magazine.In 2025, WOLFSKULL returns louder, detached, and with even more drive. With the arrival of new second guitarist Mike Nero at the beginning of 2024, a noticeable breath of fresh air came into the band, which was directly reflected in the new material. In September 2024, the ten new tracks were recorded at Soundlodge Studio under the direction of Jörg Uken (Anvil, Suicide Angels, Dew Scented, Temple of Dread). Now, with the album on the cusp of release, HEAVY chats with vocalist Pete 9 and guitarist Feratu to dig deeper."I think this time around we were more keen on having a dusty rock and roll record with more up-tempo songs than Ave Goddess," Pete replied when we pressed him on the musical nature of the album. "But there's still a hint of melancholy here and there, but it's mostly a straight rock and roll record.""I think we wanted to have more straightforward songs," Feratu added. "A little bit more rock songs that are not so mellow. But we wanted to have more dust; more rock, more kick-ass, and I think - without losing the typical trademarks of Wolfskull - I think you can find them in any song. That was the direction we wanted to go, and I think we have an album that is working each song with another."In the full interview, the band shared their positive recording experiences and emphasized that the singles released thus far effectively represent the album's overall sound. They also explained the album's artwork, highlighting its strong female imagery as a tribute to female empowerment in rock music.Feratu discussed the influence of the German music scene in 2018 on their formation, particularly noting their metal and punk roots, and reminisced about their earlier band, The Spook. We talked about the time between recording an album and releasing it and how that affects different bands in different ways, new guitarist Mike Nero and what he brings to Wolfskull, touring plans and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Angela CroudaceAs Militarie Gun gear up to hit Australian stages alongside Touché Amoré, frontman Ian Shelton looks forward to everything from unruly shows to venomous local wildlife. “I guess my bucket list would be to see one of these disturbing Australian spiders in the flesh,” he laughs. “I don't want to be in danger—but I'd like to see it.”It won't be Militarie Gun's first time down under, but their energy and evolving sound continues to resonate with fans worldwide. Known for fusing hardcore roots with melodic hooks, the band's genre-defying sound has sparked debate. “It's disingenuous to call us a hardcore band,” Shelton says. “We came from that world, but we just want to sound like Militarie Gun.”Originality is embedded in everything they do—from their cathartic lyrics to unexpected collaborations like writing a WWE wrestling intro track. “Post Malone was meant to do it but got too busy. I woke up to a text and spent two days writing riffs,” he recalls. Raw emotion drives Shelton's songwriting, a channel for experiences he says are too intense for everyday conversation. “The songs are the only appropriate place to put those feelings,” he shares. “I never hold anything back.”That vulnerability connects deeply with fans, who often bring wild energy to their gigs. “Last time in Sydney, we played Do It Faster four times. By the end, it was just one guy on stage. The rest of us had jumped into the crowd,” Shelton laughs. Despite their rising profile, Ian rejects the idea of “making it.” “It's not a career—it's an artistic pursuit,” he says. “If you ever feel like you've made it, you're not pushing yourself creatively.”When asked what he hopes audiences take away, his answer is simple: “I hope they feel something—even if it's anger. I don't want to make anything people feel indifferent about.” As for advice to new bands navigating today's fractured rock scene? “Be yourself—loudly,” Shelton says. “Turn your quirks up to 10. That's what people connect with.”With that in mind, expect more chaos, catharsis, and no holding back. The tour kicks off July 10 at the Triffid in Brisbane.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersSydney metal outfit Harroway have been crushing skulls since 2019 withtheir aggressive brand of metal, highlighting real life problems and issues. As such their passion has always been evident be it on stage orrecording, with their debut 2023 EP, I Don't Want To Be Here Anymore resonating on a global scale that led to a sold-out headlining tour that took the band across Australia before deservedly securing them supports for international acts such as We Came as Romans (USA), Invent Animate (USA), and Crossfaith (JAP).The band have been absent from the air waves since last April's song Heresy but have returned with a vengeance on the back of their new single Narsociety. While still maintaining the fabric of their metal DNA, Narsociety also sees Harroway exploring more melodic elements entwined with clean vocals that have not previously been a major component of their music.An amalgamation of the words Narcissist and Society, Narsociety paints an honestly bleak portrait of the modern reliance and dependence on social media and the darkness that easily consumes it. It is a brutally honest portrayal of what is becoming an increasingly dangerous subject, delivered with the raw hostility that has become Harroway's trademark.HEAVY spoke with guitarist Anthony earlier this week to see how the response has been."It's been a bit of a different sound for us with having the new singer come in with a little bit of a higher register," he offered. "It's a little bit more melodic for us as well, but so far it's been really good. We've got some really good feedback from fans, friends, and family, and it seems to be going off at the shows too. People are really enjoying Chris's voice."The Chris who Anthony is referring to is new clean vocalist Chris 'CJ' Webb. Having that lighter shade to the band's generally more aggressive music could be considered a brave move by the band, but Anthony insists it is something that has been added for the betterment of Harroway's music."It's definitely something we've wanted to introduce into our sound, both live and in the studio, before," he shared. "But it's been something we've struggled with to really execute on because, you know, Matt (Banks, vocalist) is excellent at what he does. He has an excellent vocal range and also his extreme vocals. As a guitarist and backup screamer, I can really appreciate the talent he has, but he really looked within himself and knew we needed somebody to bring us into that higher register."In the full interview, Anthony discussed Narsociety in greater detail from both a musical and lyrical perspective. He ran us through the underlying themes and messages of the song and how it is a reflection on today's society and behaviour.We discussed the captivating and cinematic music video that goes with it, the recent tour with Make Them Suffer and Justice For The Damned, playing Narsociety live for the first few times and how it was received and spoke about a couple of shows on the horizon. While remaining non-committal about a future album, Anthony gave a strong impression that Narsociety is only the beginning of their plans, revealing there are more singles to be released and promising the band still has big plans for this year.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersNot often a band's music comes across our desk here at HEAVY that literally makes us sit up and take absolute notice, but when it does, and you then find out it is the first ever single release from the band…Such was the case when we heard Next Time Send A Killer, the debut track from Berlin-based heavy outfit Luther. A crushing cesspool of malevolence, Next Time Send A Killer also contains a plethora of styles and influences that many a more seasoned band have tried without half the impact achieved by Luther in their sonic introduction to the world.A sentence in the band's press release says, "through music Luther communicates emotions of isolation, betrayal, rage and escapism", and for once that was no exaggeration. At times angry, at others beautiful and others again a slit to the throat, Next Time Send A Killer is an amalgamation of everything you thought scared you as a child then dialled up a double notch. Thinking (but hoping we were wrong) this might just be a case of one great song followed by a dose of mediocrity, HEAVY reached out to the band, who sent us two unreleased songs and their music videos, and they were just as good, if not better.Of course, we had to chat with Luther in order to introduce them to our friends, with vocalist Leo Luther kindly offering up some of her time."We formed in 2024," she began when asked to introduce Luther, "and we are somewhat of a… I wouldn't say supergroup, but that's the kind of concept. We are all people who were in different bands but in the same scene, and we met each other, liked each other, so we started this project."We ask Leo to run us through Next Time Send A Killer in greater detail."This comes from me wishing to experiment with some very… angry music," she measured. "And I think that angry music is also like trap metal. I know it's not the most common sub-genre of metal, but there's also some metalcore and a little bit of djent in there, and that's how it was born."We ask why Luther chose that particular song to introduce them and their music to the world."You're not gonna like this answer," she laughed. "Basically, in a band where you want to be successful, you need to have some sort of strategy. I was like, fuck the strategy, we're just gonna do what we want (laughs). So there are two songs that have this type of sound identity for us, and those are the songs we released with Next Time Send A Killer and Oyster, which were released together. Now we are working on a debut album that literally has nothing to do with metalcore. That was not the wisest choice, but I thought fuck it. We liked that song, now we like another one, so we're gonna do it that way."In the full interview, Leo talked more about their debut single and the reaction to it. We discussed the next two songs to be released, Give The People What They Want and The Most Famous Rat In The Sewer, going into detail about the imaginative song titles for their music.Leo mentioned the debut album and what we can expect, took us deeper through their musical styles and influences and ran us through the balancing act of getting things right in the creative process and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersSpeculation has been rife for years regarding a possible reunion between Sebastian Bach and Skid Row, and it will probably continue until one or both parties pulls stumps on their career, but at the end of the day, it doesn't really matter when both parties are still doing their thing, and doing it well. Of course, there are going to be those fans who would love to see the band as it once was, but for the realists, that will likely never happen.Luckily for them - and everyone who loved hard rock and metal - that Sebastian Bach will always possess a love for the music he was part of bringing to life, and as such, always champions the cause wherever and however he can.That cause comes to Australian shores this November, when Bach returns to these shores to play Skid Row's debut self-titled album in its entirety for the first time on Australian soil.Fans can expect an explosive set featuring hits like Youth Gone Wild, 18 and Life, Big Guns, and I Remember You alongside select tracks from Slave To The Grind and throughout Bach's solo career, including last year's well-received Child Within The Man.HEAVY spent some time with Sebastian Bach recently to talk about the upcoming tour and playing some of those songs for the very first time Down Under."The first record is only 45 minutes long, so that's not a full show," Bach pointed out when we asked what to expect. "We'll be doing new songs from my new record, Child Within the Man, and we'll be doing a couple of songs from Slave to the Grind. But we got some really good new songs like What Do I Got to Lose, which is the closest thing that I've had to a hit in 35 years."We ask if there were any difficulties in playing the debut record in full due to the fact that when it was written, the band likely would not have given thought to the whole album being played in full one day."There's certain notes that are very challenging," he nodded. "In America, we did another tour where we did the album Slave to the Grind in its entirety with 40 cities, but what I learned, when you said was it challenging relearning the first record? I learned that the first record was more about singing, and Slave to the Grind was more about screaming. A song like Living on a Chain Gang off Slave, that is just me screaming at the top of my lungs for the whole song. On the first record, there's more pop and a pop sensibility. Slave to the Grind is way more metal, but the first record, Skid Row, it captures a real innocence about us as a band and about the times. It just has a real innocent quality to it."In the full interview, Bach talked us through the touring schedule and his preference of playing more shows as opposed to having days off, the musical climate that spawned Skid Row's self-titled debut album and where the band fit in at the time.We spoke about the massive intensity lift between the first album and the more aggressive follow-up Slave To The Grind and why the band went that way instead of playing it safe and rehashing a successful formula, what he has learned as a vocalist over his 40-year career, the significant changes in the music industry, how he maintains his vocal range and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersBrisbane sleaze rock outfit Snake Bite Whisky have been terrorizing the airwaves since 2014, along the way releasing two albums in This Side Of Hell and Black Candy.Their crossover appeal, coupled with an energetic live performance and precision playing, has seen the band make inroads overseas, particularly the seedier side of LA where their particular brand of rock was nurtured and grown.With the recent arrival of two new guitarists and an opportunity to join the roster of growing Australian label XMusic, Snake Bite Whisky have embarked on the next stage of their musical journey which has already promised so much and seems set to reach new elevated heights with the release of some new material, spearheaded by the mellower love song of sorts called Living To Die which is out now.Coming together from the ashes of a song started over 30 years ago, Living To Die showcases a softer side to Snake Bite Whisky while maintaining their trademark sound and loud guitars. It is not a new direction for the band per se, rather a revealing of another string to their musical bow that will appeal to fans both old and new.HEAVY sat down recently with the band from rehearsal to find out more."It's been a long journey," guitarist Scuba Steve sighed when we asked how they are feeling about having Living To Die unleashed on the world. "It's been a long time in the making, and a lot of work and effort has gone into it, and it's come out the other side exactly how we wanted it. Actually, better than we thought."In the full interview, the boys run us through Living To Die musically and what they were going for, the personal nature of the song, the extended intro and the thought process behind it, whether it is a stand-alone single or part of a bigger picture, the new members and what they bring to the band, signing with XMusic and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersComing together from opposing corners of the planet, Calva Louise are a band who not only benefit from the wisdom of a diverse cultural well to draw from, but also from a musical vision and delivery that far transcends most music in the modern world.To categorise their music would be doing an injustice to the rich sonic palate offered up from the talented trio, but if push came to shove, you would be safe to say theirs is a musical blending of metal, punk and electronics. But the depth of their music goes much deeper than that.Painting an almost cinematic dimension through eclectic and boisterous bodies of sound, Calva Louise have thrown pretty much every rule book out the window, instead following their own path and vision to create a dynamic and powerful sound that is truly something fresh and unique on the shrinking landscape.After two early albums - Rhinoceros and Euphoric - it was the 2023 release of the mixtape Over The Threshold that broke Calva Louise through the barriers and into the ears of a hungry public tired of the same formulaic music. Such was its impact, Over The Threshold reached the ears of Pendulum's Gareth McGrillen, who messaged the band on Instagram, leading to him coming on board to record Calava Louise's new album Edge Of The Abyss, which is due for release on July 11.HEAVY caught up with drummer Ben Parker and bass/vocals Alizon Taho to find out more about the new album and Calva Louise's musical journey."I guess it's a continuous evolution," Parker replied when we asked him to tell us about Edge Of The Abyss musically. "Our sound has been like that from the start, and this is closer to what I think we've always wanted to do. And every release we've done throughout the band's timeline has increasingly got closer to that. It's almost like a bit of a nonstop vision, and it evolves as it goes. Obviously, this album is still very much in the heavy vein - much like the last release, like probably even a little bit more so, I would say."In the full interview, Ben and Alizon explained the DIY production process of the album, where each member recorded their parts remotely, culminating in collaboration with co-producer Mazar in Italy and Gareth McGrillen from Pendulum for additional production. They ran through the interesting concept for the album and how it follows their previous bodies of work.Talk turned to their eclectic sound and the difficulties of blending genres together in the creative process, opening track Tunnel Vision and why it was chosen to introduce Edge Of The Abyss, working with McGrillen and what he brought to the overall sound and feel of the album and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersMusic means many things to many different people, but regardless of whether you listen to country or heavy metal, one common denominator remains. Music is supposed to be fun.Which is exactly the way South Wales entertainment machine Punk Rock Factory approach each and every waking moment. Essentially a covers band who spice up everyone from Meatloaf to Michael Jackson to Abba to Disney classics with their own punk-fuelled tinge, Punk Rock Factory are a band who seem to bring themselves just as much joy as they do their fans.Formed in 2014, Punk Rock Factory spent their early years refining their craft, toiling away without major success. But all of that changed at a time - ironically - when most of the world suffered during COVID. With more time on their hands due to the necessity of lockdown, the band invested their efforts into their social media and online presence, with immediate success.They emerged from lockdown with enough momentum to carry their music throughout the music universe, culminating in invitations to play iconic festivals such as Bloodstock, Download and Slam Dunk to rapturous applause. These days, they are selling out venues worldwide, and the party is headed back to Australia this November.HEAVY sat down with Peej (vocals, guitar) and Ryan (guitar) to join in the festivities. Being new to the band ourselves, we ask what to expect from a Punk Rock Factory live show."Fun." Ryan replied without hesitation. "It's always a laugh, man.""Our shows are…" Peej jumped in. "I mean, the main word I would call them is ridiculous to be honest (laughs). It's full of guilty pleasure tracks and just good sing-along stuff, and we play a lot of like cartoons and TV stuff and Disney stuff, but we're not… I wouldn't say we're a child-oriented band. We're not the Wiggles. I do swear a lot when it's an all-ages show - I really do try not to - but fuck it, it's their own fault if they brought the kids (laughs). It's chaos, it's fun. We love being there and appreciate being there just as much as the fans do. The fact that people turn up night after night to come and watch us piss about on stage for an hour and a half is fucking great, and I think that comes across. We have such a laugh and the banter with the crowd… it's almost as if you're in a room with a load of your mates and everyone's involved and everyone's having a laugh and chipping in. That's the vibe of our show."In the full interview, Ryan and Peej described their live shows as chaotic and interactive, emphasizing the importance of audience engagement to enhance the experience. They clarified that their performances, while featuring some cartoon and Disney songs, are not aimed at children.The band shared insights into their creative process for punk rock covers, utilizing software like Moises to isolate song elements, and acknowledged the challenges of adapting complex genres. They reflected on their evolution since 2014, noting how they leveraged TikTok during the pandemic to expand their audience. We spoke about choosing songs to cover and what happens if they are too difficult, the process of breaking down and then reconstructing a song, what they get out of being in Punk Rock Factory and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersSydney sludge fuelled outfit Black Rheno have just released another single - A Bad Ass Love Song - and to celebrate the trio are hitting the road this August to take their music to the people that matter most to them, the fans.A Bad Ass Love Song is the third single released in recent times by Black Rheno, with all three earmarked as stand-alone singles to keep people smiling until they release a full length album next year.But in the present, Black Rheno are kicking names and taking ass with a string of entertaining singles that have to be road tested to gauge their true worth, a task looked upon favourably by the band.HEAVY sat down with frontman Ryan Miller to dig deeper, starting with the new single and its reception."Everyone loves it," he enthused. "It's a fun song. It's got a lot of energy to it, a lot of punk rock and hardcore punk vibes. It's just got that energy, then it's got some sludgey riffs as well… good club banger."We ask if it is, as the title suggests, a love song."Yeah, yeah," Miller nodded. "I met a girl last year who I fell for… sometimes you just write what's on your mind, and that's what was on my mind."In the full interview, we find out if Ryan's significant other is a fan of the song, whether this and the last two singles are stand-alone tracks or part of a bigger picture, their upcoming tour and what to expect, how Black Rheno prepare for a tour like this, the two festivals as part of the tour, future plans and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Angela CroudaceAfter more than 20 years of amplifying voices for justice, punk veterans Rise Against are returning with Ricochet, their tenth studio album, set for release in August. Speaking from Sweden, frontman Tim McIlrath reflects on what hitting double digits means for a band that's never been afraid to stand for something. "We've ticked a lot of the boxes," he says. "Now what is there left to do?"The answer wasn't about making a statement but following instinct this time. "It wasn't about checking boxes," McIlrath explains. "It was more like, what are you feeling right now? Just capture that." Ricochet emerged less from one defining event and more from the quiet, collective reckoning of a post-pandemic world."We made it through that crazy time… and now what's next?" he asks. "We learned a lot—about ourselves, society, misinformation, and how unprepared we really were." That mix of reflection, uncertainty, and cautious hope flows through the record's political and personal themes.Rise Against has never shied from speaking truth to power, but McIlrath admits that the landscape has shifted. "I used to assume we were always playing to a like-minded crowd," he says, going on to recall the first time the band received death threats. "Now I know better. The world is more polarized—even within families. But music can be that rare space where we communicate again."It was inspirational to hear someone so committed to change still speaking with clarity and purpose after two decades, sure of where he stands and genuinely wanting to make a difference for the better. Tim reflected on the Chicago punk rock scene of the '90s, noting how many bands and acquaintances from that era—such as Fall Out Boy and Alkaline Trio—advocated for change in many ways. He spoke about how exciting and meaningful it was to come up in such a vibrant and message-driven music scene.Newer acts like Spiritual Cramp and L.S. Dunes continue to fuel his creative fire, reminding him of Rise Against's early days in the hardcore scene. That DIY spirit, where action trumps permission, still drives him.Burnout, he admits, happens. "But then I get on stage and see people halfway across the world resonating with what we're singing about," he says. "And I remember—we're not alone. There are more of us than there are of them. We just need to be louder."As for Australia? "We're conspiring as we speak," he teases. "It's a priority—we just need to lock it in."Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersMusic runs in the blood. Sure, people can learn to play or learn to sing, but those fortunate to be born into a musical family generally have a head start on most.Melbourne artist Karly Jewell comes from the latter. Inspired by her late Grandfather - an acclaimed country singer-songwriter known for his work with Slim Dusty - Jewell was first bitten by the bug around 5 years old and has been working towards the elusive goal that is becoming a professional musician ever since.But the real part of her journey began in 2018 after teaming with fellow Aussie Mark Dalbeth at management company Rav Medic and releasing her debut album Phoenix the following year. From there, Jewell's commanding stage presence and rock n roll persona have seen her voice traverse the globe and find its way to XMusic, who signed Jewell to the emerging label in 2014. From there, she immediately set about releasing the singles, Sad Girl, In The Dark, Burn and Other Side, all of which feature on Jewell's new album, There's A Jewell In Town, which was released today.HEAVY sat down with Jewell to catch up on the new music and other things happening in the world of Karly Jewell."This is so exciting to have this album out now," she smiled. "I've been hanging on to these songs for a little while, almost two years. It sounds like a long time to do an album, but it actually only took about 14 days to actually record this whole album (laughs). Now it's finally out. Obviously, we released a few singles, but to share the whole album is just unreal."Despite the growing recognition and expansion of her musical empire, Jewell still manages to exude an almost innocent, yet defiant nature."Staying true and just being me," she shrugs when we ask what it is about her music that is resonating on a larger scale. "Not trying to be like other people and not trying to write songs to please people. I'm just writing for myself. And a lot of this stuff has that kind of country rock feel. When I say country rock, I mean when you go to places like Nashville, you're hearing these like big songs, like country songs, but they sound rock."In the full interview, Karly described the album as a fusion of pop, rock, and electronic genres, reflecting her artistic range and emotional depth. She shared her unique songwriting process, often finding inspiration in her bathroom due to its acoustics, and highlighted the significance of the title track There's A Jewell in Town, which tells a personal story. She dedicated the album to her late grandfather, emphasizing its emotional importance.We spoke about her recent tour of Japan and future touring opportunities, this weekend's double album launch party, her musical motivation and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersBrisbane-based petalcore outfit Torizon have continued their strong approach to 2025, today releasing their second single of the year with Sober.A sequel to previous single Bloom, Sober explores a more vulnerable side of Torizon's musical psyche and continues the conceptual journey that will be exemplified over the course of the band's debut EP - also announced today - Meliora, which is scheduled for release on September 19.And, in further announcements, Torizon hit the road for their first headline run of shows this October.In an attempt to keep up to date with everything happening with Torizon, HEAVY sat down to chat with vocalist Mish Sharma. We mention Torizon's blazing start to the year and welcome them back after a brief period of inactivity."Yeah, we were quiet in the background working away on a lot of things," she almost apologized. "We were working on levelling up everything, really. Our songwriting, tech, visuals, everything. And that took a couple of years to plan, write, produce, plan marketing and strategize. So here we are, back again (laughs)."Sober also marks somewhat of a transitional point in Torizon's music, showcasing raw emotion and vulnerability unlike anything the band have attempted before."We wanted to do something a little bit different with it," Mish agreed. "It is a little bit quieter, and it's got moments, but then wait till the bridge… that takes you away! And then you get the screams. So, musically it was just about, honestly, whatever felt right in the moment."In the full interview, Mish delved into the thematic connection of Sober to their previous release Bloom, focusing on a couple's journey through grief and addiction after fertility struggles. The upcoming EP, Meliora, aims to delve into these complex issues while offering a hopeful perspective. Mish highlighted the significance of inclusivity in mental health discussions, sharing her personal experiences and the need for a supportive environment.We spoke about the challenges of writing for subjects that are often shunned, detailing the conceptual journey of the EP and its desired outcome. Mish explored topics Torizon touched on as a band going into their first major release, and how Meliora reflects Torizon in 2025. She mentioned the upcoming tour and what to expect, plus more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersDirty Pagans have been on a crusade to return airwaves to the meatier sounds of hard rock and heavy metal for the best part of ten years now. Self dubbed riff n roll, the Adelaide outfit focuses on massive guitar riffs, dirty grooves and unapologetically loud undertones, hitting with the force of a sonic sledgehammer before ramming the point home.Fresh from last year's national support run with Deep Purple's Glenn Hughes, Dirty Pagans are on the cusp of releasing their next slab of goodness in the form of Forever High, with vocalist Matty Dee joining HEAVY to take us through life with Dirty Pagans."We don't really try and stray away from what we love and what we want to sound like," Matty expressed of the musical direction on Forever High. "And that's the classic 70s kind of rock and roll heavy metal stuff. We pretty much tried to stay true to that and deliver that once again, so we're hoping that we've done that, and we'll let the fans decide if we have."Dirty Pagans road tested most of the new album in the live arena, with Matty smiling at the memory."We got kind of like thrown in the deep end on that one because we were doing it for Glenn Hughes," he laughed. "So if it wasn't going to be liked, it was not going to be liked by people who love Deep Purple and Glenn Hughes' music. And they're probably old enough not to really hold back their opinion (laughs). I think we were alright. We didn't have any negative reviews."In the full interview, Matty spoke more about Forever High and what to expect, the importance to Dirty Pagans of staying true to their roots, the tour with Glenn Hughes and how the band approached it, new drummer Gareth Briggs and what he brings to the band, their upcoming hometown album launch show and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.