HEAVY Music Interviews

Every now and then, a band bursts out of the local circuit with the kind of sonic swagger that leaves your ears ringing and your jaw firmly pinned to the floor. If you haven't crossed paths with Melbourne's own theatrical rock powerhouse NECKO yet, you're about to get a rude, blues-drenched awakening. Dubbed by some as the next torchbearers of massive arena rock, this formidable three-piece—featuring Alek Necko on vocals and guitar, Reno Torrisi on drums, and Alex Damon ripping up the bass and keys—has been quietly plotting a rock revolution. And let me tell you, their latest offering is an absolute monster.The trio is gearing up to unleash a brand-new EP that takes everything you think you know about classic, blues-infused hard rock and turns it entirely on its head. We are talking about a record packed with immersive, medieval themes, navigating the jagged edges of newfound desire and gut-wrenching heartbreak. It is a rare blend of delicate whispers that draw you in, right before hitting you square in the chest with a powerful, stadium-sized roar. To make sure the sonic devastation hit exactly the right notes, the boys teamed up with GRAMMY winners Adrian Bushby and Al Sutton for production and mixing, capturing a raw, unapologetic performance that feels like a classic vinyl master brought to life in the modern age.To celebrate this monumental release, NECKO is hitting the highway for their massive Come As One Tour, bringing their legendary high-energy live show to the masses. Known for their face-melting extended solos and a stadium-rock presence that commands the entire room, these guys don't just play a gig—they put on a theatrical showcase. HEAVY caught up with Alek and Alex to dissect the inner workings of this incredible new EP. We dive deep into each of the songs and find out how they represent Necko moving forward, what it was like working alongside heavy-hitting industry legends behind the soundboard, what fans can expect when they bring this raw wall of sound to life on stages across the country and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Every now and then, a band comes along that leaves a massive, unforgettable dent in the heavy music landscape right out of the gate. If you have been paying attention to the underground metal circuit lately, you already know that Stockholm's very own heavy metal prodigies, Bloodstain, are exactly that band.Ever since they burst onto the scene and dropped their absolutely savage 2024 debut EP, I Am Death, they have been operating at a completely different speed. They didn't just knock on the door of the New Wave of Swedish Thrash Metal; they completely kicked it off its hinges, quickly racking up streaming numbers and live reputations that leave older bands shaking in their boots.Now, the wait is almost over. On September 25, the band is gearing up to unleash their highly anticipated, self-titled full-length debut album via Threeman Recordings and Sound Pollution Distribution. Produced alongside local metal royalty Alex Hellid of Entombed fame and mixed by the absolute wizard Ronnie Björnström, this upcoming record is a masterclass in how to honor classic heavy traditions while completely weaponising a contemporary, modern force. Singles like Something Sinister and Banner of Supremacy have already proven that Bloodstain is not just relying on narrow nostalgia. They are packing sharper riff discipline, massive hooks, and an undeniable stage instinct built for the biggest festival platforms in the world.HEAVY caught up with the lads to chat all things surrounding the new album, finding their sonic identity so early in their career, and why this record represents the ultimate statement of who Bloodstain is.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Every now and then, a release comes across my desk that doesn't just demand a loud, unapologetic spin—it violently grabs you by the throat and forces you to confront the world outside your window. If you fancy yourself a follower of the Australian heavy music scene, you already know we are living through a massive golden era of home-grown talent. But right now, it's Vault Hill, a devastating four-piece out of Melbourne, who are ready to completely flip the script with their savage new seven-track EP.These guys first caught our attention back in 2022 with their debut offering, Amber Falls. It was a cracking introduction that perfectly fused teeth-rattling thrash intensity with the punishing, syncopated weight of modern metalcore. But what they've put together on this new record is an entirely different beast altogether. Spearheaded by the O'Brien brothers, Morgan (vocals) and Adrian (guitar), alongside a lethal rhythm section featuring Kyle Dean (bass) and Frankie Demaru (drums), Vault Hill have weaponised their songwriting and expanded their sonic palate in the process.Vault Hill recently dropped their first new single in two years, The Pain We Keep Alive, which we were absolutely stoked to premiere exclusively here at HEAVY. Not only does the track showcase the band's musical growth, carrying the massive groove and sheer sonic hostility of heavyweights like Lamb of God and other major players,.but it also serves as the lead single from Vault Hill's upcoming 7 song EP Modern Way which be unleashed on September 25. But what makes this EP a truly vital piece of Australian art owes as much to its lyrical heart as it does the devestation of its music.Inspired heavily by vocalist Morgan's time spent living and working in the Northern Territory, the new material dives headfirst into the uncomfortable, often ignored truths of systemic inequality and the ongoing oppression of First Nations communities. It is a blistering critique wrapped in crushing breakdowns and torrential screams. It pulls no punches, reminding us that beneath the pristine, global-facing tourism ads, real people are hurting, and ignoring the problem only feeds the cycle.This isn't just music to throw down to in the pit—though God knows the breakdowns will cause some serious neck damage—this is socially conscious heavy music of the highest order. I was lucky enough to track down Morgan and Adrian to chat all about the creative process behind the new material, the heavy message driving their lyrics, how they managed to capture such pure, concentrated lightning on this record and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Let's be completely honest for a second: nineteen years is a bloody long time to keep a fanbase waiting. But when you are dealing with a band as musically meticulous and unyielding as Gothenburg's finest, Evergrey, you know the payoff is going to be absolute perfection. After a brutal postponement earlier this year due to unpredictable airspace chaos, Tom S. Englund and his crew are firing on all cylinders, ready to unleash their Great Southern Emptiness tour upon five cities that have been starved of their live magic since 2007.Evergrey has never been a band to just lazily loop a few heavy guitar riffs and call it a day. For over thirty years, they have thrown out the traditional metal rulebook to paint massive, emotionally charged sonic landscapes. They bridge the gap between aggressive, straight-to-the-point heavy metal anthems and deeply layered, symphonic masterpieces. Their latest studio album, Architects Of The New Weave, stands as a flawless testament to this evolution. It earned well-deserved "Album of the Month" honors across global metal publications, and it proves that their creative well is nowhere near running dry.When you have a staggering fifteen-album catalogue to pull from, building a two-hour live setlist is an absolute nightmare of a task. Yet, that is exactly what the band have been wrestling with ahead of this tour. Australian audiences are a notoriously passionate bunch, and trying to balance foundational classics with the colossal new material is a high-stakes jigsaw puzzle. From the intimate, sweaty walls of Brisbane's Crowbar to the reinvented layout of Melbourne's Max Watts, these venues are about to witness a band that doesn't just play songs—they command the room with a dark, theatrical energy that stays with you long after the house lights come up.HEAVY caught up with keyboard player Rikard Zander to dive deep into the logistics of this highly anticipated return. We talk about the sheer relief of finally getting these dates locked in, the heavy responsibility of satisfying decades of fan expectations, and exactly why Architects Of The New Weave is translating into a beast of a live show. Grab a cold one, settle in, and get ready for the return of the progressive metal kings.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

There is nothing quite like the raw, unfiltered power of a band that breathes their entire soul into the music. It's that exact, devastatingly beautiful energy that rising Texan metalcore heavyweights I Promised The World are bringing Down Under this month. For the very first time, the five-piece is packing their bags and hitting our shores for a massive nationwide tour alongside August Burns Red.If you haven't been paying attention to what these guys have been doing over the last year, quite frankly, where the hell have you been? After signing a massive global deal with Rise Records, the band dropped their phenomenal self-titled EP at the start of the year. It completely set the heavy music scene on fire, bursting at the seams with massive, early-2000s metalcore and screamo vibes that hit you straight in the chest. Tracks like Bliss in 7 Languages and A Pure Expression aren't just heavy—they are deeply emotional, riding a wave of raw catharsis born from pure tragedy.Born out of frontman and guitarist Caleb Molina's profound personal grief after the tragic loss of his father to COVID-19 in 2020, this band is the living definition of triumph in the face of adversity. They've already conquered massive festival stages across Europe and the US this year, absolutely crushing sets at Hellfest, Outbreak, and FYA Fest. Now, they are locked, loaded, and ready to unleash that live intensity on Australian crowds from Brisbane down to Melbourne.HEAVY caught up with the man himself, Caleb Molina, to chat all about the upcoming tour, how the band channels such heavy emotion into their live performance, what it's like sharing the stage with a powerhouse like August Burns Red, why Aussie fans need to get to the venue early to witness the sheer chaos of their debut sets and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Angela CroudaceFew musical trajectories in recent Australian heavy music history have matched the breakneck, neon-soaked velocity of Germany's electronicore powerhouses, Electric Callboy. What began as a wildly packed, early-afternoon curiosity slot at Good Things Festival 2022 has evolved into a full-blown love affair with the Southern Hemisphere. Aussie audiences quickly proved they had an insatiable appetite for the band's unapologetic fusion of crushing metalcore breakdowns and pulsating, high-energy EDM. Every subsequent visit has seen venue sizes skyrocket, culminating in their massive Tanzneid World Tour, which hits major arenas across the country this month.The secret to Electric Callboy's rapid rise lies in their ability to turn any venue into a chaotic yet unified celebration. Since frontmen Kevin Ratajczak and Nico Sallach ushered in the definitive TEKKNO era, the band has transcended traditional genre constraints. They trade grim, brooding metal tropes for bowl cuts, tracksuits, and unadulterated joy. Tracks like "We Got the Moves" and "Hypa Hypa" are designed for maximum crowd participation, blurring the line between a heavy music festival pit and a European rave.Australia occupies a genuinely special place in the band's hearts. It is a country where they have experienced everything from last-minute festival emergencies—like pulling in legendary drummer Frank Zummo with mere hours' notice—to headlining legendary venues like Rod Laver Arena. According to the band, flying down under feels less like a gruelling work trip and more like a reward, driven by the unique, welcoming chaos of local crowds who know how to party hard while looking out for one another.Ahead of their biggest Australian headline run to date, we sat down with Jamie and Jake. In this exclusive chat, the charismatic duo opens up about their meteoric rise from the smaller stages to full-blown arenas, navigating the relentless pace of global touring, and how their families react to their viral success. We also dive into the creative evolution behind their latest anthems, the profound impact of stopping to smell the roses amidst the madness, and why Australian fans continue to give them some of the most unforgettable nights of their lives.Turn up the techno, grab your sweatbands, and dive into our deep-chat with the unstoppable force that is Electric Callboy. To get tickets for Electric Callboy's Australian tour visit www.destroyalllines.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Australia, stretch your necks and brace your ear drums, because the metal gods have smiled upon us once again. After nearly three long decades of waiting, industrial symphonic black metal royalty The Kovenant are finally crossing the equator to make their monumental Australian debut this September. Let that sink in for a second. Thirty years. For decades, Aussie metalheads have had to settle for spinning worn-out CDs and watching grainy live footage from European festivals, wondering if we would ever see this legendary outfit land on our shores.They aren't just coming down under for a standard greatest-hits run, either. The Norwegian visionaries are packing up their gear and heading to the southern hemisphere to perform their groundbreaking, absolute masterpiece of an album, 1998's Nexus Polaris, in its entirety. When that record dropped, it didn't just push the boundaries of extreme music; it shattered them completely, fusing the icy, unyielding malice of black metal with sweeping, galactic electronics and symphonic grandiosity. It is an album that shaped a generation of heavy music fans, and hearing it live from start to finish promises to be nothing short of a religious experience for the local heavy army.But the news gets even better. Not only are they dusting off the leather and studs to deliver a masterclass in sonic extremity, but frontman and mastermind Nagash has dropped a massive bombshell ahead of the tour: The Kovenant are officially back in the studio and well advanced on a brand-new album, with most of the tracks already locked and loaded.With massive, highly anticipated shows locked in for Melbourne and Sydney, these gigs are guaranteed to be an absolute bloodbath in the best possible way. The mosh pits will be lawless, the energy will be explosive, and the front rows are going to leave venues in absolute ruins. It is a legendary milestone for the Australian metal community, and God help anyone standing in the way when the first symphonic breakdown drops.HEAVY caught up with the enigmatic Nagash to pull back the curtain on this historic tour. We get the full, unvarnished lowdown on why now was the perfect time for the reunion, the logistical madness of bringing such a massive production to Australia for the very first time, and what it feels like to revisit a legendary piece of work like Nexus Polaris all these years later. We also dig deep into the writing process of their upcoming record to find out exactly what the next chapter of the band sounds like.18/09/26 - MAXX WATTS, MELBOURNE19/09/26 - CROWBAR, SYDNEYTix: https://swdpresents.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Angela CroudaceAustralia, strap yourselves in. If you thought Sydney's heavy hitters Polaris were done pushing the boundaries of the global metalcore landscape, you are dead wrong. These guys don't just walk up to the line; they systematically tear it down and rebuild it with more grit, more venom, and more raw emotion than almost any other band on the planet today. They have consistently proven themselves to be the undisputed kings of the modern Aussie heavy music scene, but what they have cooked up next is bound to catch a few people completely off guard.Today, we are diving deep into the black heart of their brand-new sonic weapon, Without You, as HEAVY sits down with vocalist Jamie Hails and bass player/clean vocalist Jake Steinhauser.We all know that Polaris are no strangers to delivering absolute auditory violence, but Without You feels entirely different. It is a massive, towering beast of a track that balances their signature, bone-shattering breakdowns with a haunting, melodic vulnerability that will leave you absolutely breathless. It's heavy, it's beautiful, and it bites hard. The track showcases a band that is not afraid to evolve, trading none of their ferocious power while tapping into a deeper, more mature level of songwriting that proves exactly why they are dominating stages worldwide. This isn't just another song to add to the mosh pit playlist—this is a defining statement.We sat down for a massive chat with the boys to get the absolute inside word on how this monster of a track came to life. We talk about the grueling creative process behind the music, the lyrical weight that carries the song's emotional core, and how they managed to capture such a massive sound in the studio. We also look ahead to what this means for the future of Polaris, their upcoming touring plans including Good Things Festival, how they keep pushing themselves to the absolute limit without ever losing their identity and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Brisbane's favorite rum-guzzling party pirates, Lagerstein, are back and ready to lay waste to your livers.After what feels like an eternity off the map, the boys have finally dusted off the S.S. Plunderberg to deliver the most aggressively fun spectacle in Australian heavy music. If you've ever been lucky enough to witness a Lagerstein show, you know it's not just a concert. It is a full-blown, beer-soaked wall of sound that hits like a tidal wave and leaves you nursing a hangover for a week.The band made a massive splash by returning to the stage, returning to Australia for four headline shows. They absolutely tore the roof off Crowbar Brisbane for a legendary comeback party, but that was just the appetizer. The main course is officially nearly served, as the boys have just one more show left on this run at the legendary Corner hotel in Melbourne this Friday, September 4. Lagerstein have been on a single-minded mission to deliver the ultimate party times, the tour serving as a triumphant reminder of why these larrikins are an absolute institution in the local scene. They don't just play music; they build an absolute community of pure, unadulterated joy out of raw heavy energy.Behind the scenes, the creative engine hasn't slowed down either. Between downing beers and steering the ship, the band has been quietly working away on the next chapter of their stellar discography, plotting a brand-new record that promises to be bigger, louder, and rowdier than anything they've done before.We recently sat down to parley with the one and only Majestic Beast, getting the absolute lowdown on the chaos of the tour so far, the inner workings of their upcoming album, and how the hell they manage to keep this insane party sailing year after year. Grab a cold one, raise your horns, and dive into our fun chat with Australia's premier pirate metal outfit!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Synth-driven producer Perturbator is heading back to Australia next month, joining HEALTH's tour as support after the two acts crossed paths through mutual popularity in the region. In a new interview, the artist explained the tour was an easy yes: a chance to return to a country he already loves, paired with an invitation from friends whose Australian fanbase is thriving. It's not his first rodeo here, and he's clearly fond of what he's found before — from the food and the "opposite" weather to, unsurprisingly, the kangaroos. But it's the crowds that stand out most. He described Australian audiences as wild and riotous in the best way, calling the shows some of the most memorable of his touring career. The tour also lands at an interesting point in his creative evolution. What started as a bedroom-producer project has grown into a globally touring act, and his sound has shifted well beyond the synthwave tag that once defined him — something he says was a deliberate break after 2016's The Uncanny Valley. These days, he leans into whatever feels honest, drawing inspiration from film, video games, and even brutalist architecture. With a soundtrack still on his bucket list, Australian fans can expect a set shaped by an artist unafraid to keep moving forward.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Ali WilliamsCRASH TEST DUMMIES have reached a particularly agreeable stage of their career. They can tour when they want, play songs that have already survived several decades of public consumption, slip some new material into the set without causing mass panic, and frontman Brad Roberts no longer feels obliged to work quite as hard as he once did. Catching up with HEAVY's Ali Williams, Roberts was happy to announce their return as well as share some memories and insight on the band's journey so far. The Canadian band are heading back to Australia in April, following a previous visit that went well enough for another run to be organised almost immediately. For Roberts, that response carries more weight than any grand discussion about longevity. People came. They enjoyed themselves. They wanted the band back. CRASH TEST DUMMIES were equally happy with the arrangement. “We had such a successful tour last time that we booked gigs almost immediately after finishing the ones that we did,” Roberts tells HEAVY. There was, however, a substantial period when touring wasn't part of the CRASH TEST DUMMIES routine at all. After stepping away from the road for some time, an invitation around 2016 unexpectedly put the machinery back into motion. Roberts remembers the moment he wanted to start touring again - mid performance with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra. Not exactly the sort a conventional way of planning your bands next international tour , but there is something wonderfully reassuring about a musician with Roberts' history casually deciding to tour again albeit mid-performance. The performance went so well that the band found themselves asking a very simple question: why weren't they doing this anymore?Full write up and interview heavymag.com.auBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

If there is one band that embodies the absolute, steel-plated spine of traditional heavy metal, it is Germany's legendary sonic architects, Accept. For half a century, these heavy metal pioneers have been forging the blueprint for speed, power, and razor-sharp riffage, leaving a trail of broken necks and shattered eardrums in their wake. 2026 marks an unbelievable milestone for the band, celebrating 50 years of uncompromising, high-voltage metal warfare. To honor this monumental golden jubilee, the band is unleashing a massive, career-spanning anniversary album, Teutonic Titans 1976-2026, out September 4 via Napalm Records. This is not just a standard compilation; it is a definitive, roaring testament to five decades of heavy metal mastery.To capture the true essence of Accept's enduring legacy, mastermind and guitar virtuoso Wolf Hoffmann did not just dust off old master tapes. Instead, the band entered the studio to completely re-record several foundational anthems from their formative late-70s era, injecting modern sonic muscle into vintage gems. This double-album extravaganza perfectly bridges the past and the present, pairing these revitalized classics with pristine, remastered definitive versions of their iconic 80s hits and modern-era crushing tracks. From the frantic speed of Fast as a Shark to the thunderous, crowd-shaking stomp of Balls to the Wall, Teutonic Titans 1976-2026 stands as an absolute masterclass in heavy metal songwriting.What truly sets this release apart is its raw, organic energy. Hoffmann eschewed modern digital replication techniques, plugging his iconic Flying V guitars directly into vintage, roaring Marshall stacks to capture the exact, biting guitar tone that defined the European metal movement. The result is a sonic journey that feels incredibly cohesive, proving that Accept's timeless brand of leather-clad aggression sounds just as vital, dangerous, and exhilarating in 2026 as it did when they first burst out of Solingen in 1976.Ahead of the highly anticipated release and a massive, career-spanning 50th-anniversary world tour, HEAVY sat down for an entertaining chat with the legendary Wolf Hoffmann. Armed with his trademark infectious enthusiasm, sharp wit, and a guitar mind like no other, Wolf was in jovial spirits. We dove deep into the meticulous creative process of rewriting and tracking their oldest material, the nostalgic rush of looking back at five decades of metal history, the more than 50 guest artists on the album, the enduring power of the German metal scene, and exactly how they plan to bring this massive, historical celebration to life on stages across the globe and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Ali WilliamsCalling a band TEENS does leave you open to a few fairly obvious questions, particularly when nobody involved can reasonably blame puberty for their decision-making anymore. Thankfully, Tasmania's TEENS are well aware of this. The name has survived longer than originally anticipated, having been hacked down from the considerably more cumbersome Teens of Thailand lifted from a Desert Sessions song. Shawn Arnold admits the original was “really cringe”, while the eventual decision to stick with TEENS appears to have been made with considerably less ceremony. “All band names are a bit shit,” he reasons, “so we'll just stick with it.” Fair enough. Problem solved. Behind the compact name is a Hobart-based band that has quietly spent the past few years tightening its current line-up, building a catalogue and developing a live reputation strong enough to earn a place among this year's BIGSOUND artists. For a Tasmanian band, that opportunity carries a little extra weight. The mainland isn't simply an afternoon drive away, and touring regularly involves handing an alarming portion of the budget to whoever happens to own an aircraft.Full interview and write up heavymag.com.auBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Ali WilliamsBeing a Perth band with East Coast ambitions requires several things: good songs, patience, a tolerant bank account and an acceptance that Australia is ludicrously large when you are paying to move musicians and their gear around it. GLOAM know this very well. Founding member Rowan Hardy sat down with HEAVY'S Ali Williams to chat about the bands beginnings and their progress leading into their BIGSOUND debut. The Perth outfit are heading to Brisbane to share their sound with the East Coast, an opportunity that Rowan admits the band has barely had the opportunity to explore. They made the journey across the country last year, but BIGSOUND brings something considerably more useful than another isolated interstate show. For several days, an enormous chunk of the Australian music industry will be crammed into Fortitude Valley, and GLOAM plan on making full use of the situation. There is excitement, certainly, but Hardy isn't approaching the week with a clipboard full of career objectives and a rehearsed networking face. He is just as keen to see other bands, naming Indigo Blaze, blue diner. and Win Big among those already on his radar. For a band geographically removed from much of the national touring circuit, simply being in the same postcode as artists they respect has value.Full interview and write up heavymag.com.auBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Ali WilliamsThere are band names that require an explanation. Then there is CATPISS, a name that mostly requires people to stop laughing long enough to ask the question. For Newcastle guitarist Jacob Dewberry and his bandmates, there was no tortured artistic manifesto behind it. Their drummer found inspiration in the deeply intellectual halls of Facebook meme culture, where a collection of stupid band names provided the necessary spark. Somewhere in that nonsense, CATPISS was born.Jacob's grandmother isn't a fan of the name but that probably confirms they made the right choice. Names aside, CATPISS have plenty worth paying attention to, particularly with the Newcastle punk outfit heading to Brisbane for BIGSOUND, where they will join a substantial crop of Australian artists getting the chance to show exactly what they can do in front of audiences, industry and anyone prepared to sacrifice sleep for several days of live music.For Jacob, simply making the BIGSOUND cut still feels slightly ridiculous. “It's massive,” he admits. “I can't believe that we got through for it, really.” The disbelief is genuine, but CATPISS haven't wandered into the opportunity by accident. Four years of playing, writing, releasing music and putting genuine effort behind the band has built them steadily from a fairly loose beginning into something with considerably more weight behind it.Full interview and write up heavymag.com.auBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Ali WilliamsThere are plenty of ways to introduce yourself at BIGSOUND. L.O.W have chosen the wonderfully uncomplicated option of turning up with five members, a stack of hardcore songs and absolutely no intention of pretending they belong on the polite end of the program.For a band that has spent just over two and a half years building itself out of Wollongong, landing a place on Australia's biggest music industry showcase is a considerable step. For bassist Luka Flanagan, it also comes with the odd experience of attending BIGSOUND from the opposite side of the fence. Flanagan has been there before through his day job in music, but this time there will be an instrument involved.“I've been to BIGSOUND a few times through work,” he tells HEAVY, explaining that being there as an artist rather than an industry attendee will be an entirely different exercise. That change of perspective is significant for L.O.W, particularly because hardcore bands are hardly flooding the BIGSOUND timetable. Flanagan is well aware of it too, happily describing L.O.W as one of the event's token heavy acts.Full interview and write up heavymag.com.auBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Ali WilliamsLATEX GRENADE have heard the question before: are they punk or are they metal? Apparently, asking them to choose has achieved very little. The San Diego outfit has spent years allowing both sides of its musical personality to coexist, despite record labels once suggesting the concept of a band playing whatever the hell it wanted was unnecessarily complicated. Now, after an extended gap between substantial releases, they have returned to the studio for their second full-length album, and the time away has given them plenty to write about. Lead guitarist and vocalist, Geoff Davis sat down with HEAVY's Ali Williams to chat about their latest release “It's been a pretty biblical couple months,” Davis tells HEAVY, with the new record arriving after a period in which LATEX GRENADE largely disappeared from the release cycle. A single surfaced a few years ago, but Davis estimates it has been around five years since the band delivered an EP or album.Full write up and interview heavymag.com.auBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview and words by Kyra JadeIt's that exciting time of year where Australia goes absolutely mad for Good Things Festival. All the speculation surrounding who will be on the line-up and most importantly who can guess the most correctly to earn all bragging rights!LØLØ has secured her spot on this year's amazing line-up along which means she is finally coming to our Aussie shores to serenade us! Known for unapologetically expressing her emotions and thoughts through her music, she's out there saying the things that ultimately make us girls, well girls. Worn-out taglines for women like, "don't be such a girl about it" OR "you're being dramatic" only fuel LØLØ to write her next hit song that's guaranteed to turn the sourest of souls sweet again.LØLØ has taken every opportunity that's come her way since being discovered on Spotify by non-other than Chad Gilbert of New Found Glory. With festivals like Lollapalooza, Sad Summer, Slam Dunk, Download, Rock Am Ring and the iconic Warped Tour under her belt, she has cemented her place firmly in the alt/ rock/ punk scene, thus laying down the modern blueprint for pop-punk.This chat was fun; my thick 'okka' accent took the wheel as we dug into the lore of our native animals. Upon reflection I was hardly selling Australia, more likely scaring the living daylights out of LØLØ. It's not my fault kangaroos actually want to fight you, our spiders are the size of dinner plates and koalas have STD's - don't shoot the messenger!I have to say that researching LØLØ's journey to success was something I really enjoyed. There's so much more to this talented musician then meets the eye - an interviewer's dream guest you could say! Admittedly, it can be hard to connect with people through Zoom on a strict 15 minutes timeframe. This wasn't the case here, I was lucky to be greeted by a kind smile that gave way to a super fun and easy interview. I left the call happy knowing there are amazing people like LØLØ in the industry for young artists to look up to.Check out the full interview below, I hope you enjoy. Until next time, legends!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Aussie metalheads, strap yourselves in because the tour of the century is officially locked, loaded, and headed down under this November! If you haven't already heard the earth-shattering news, the absolute icons of heavy metal, Iron Maiden, are bringing their monumental Run For Your Lives 50th Anniversary World Tour to Australian shores. And because the metal gods clearly smile upon us, they aren't coming alone. They are bringing none other than thrash metal royalty Megadeth along for the ride.Let's be honest for a second: this isn't just another standard gig line-up. This is a massive, history-making double bill that we quite frankly didn't see coming. We've got Maiden hitting outdoor stadiums in Melbourne and Sydney for the first time in their legendary 50-year history, alongside massive arena stops in Adelaide and Brisbane. They're promising a killer, once-in-a-lifetime setlist pulled entirely from their groundbreaking first nine studio albums. That means everything from the raw power of the self-titled debut right through to the epic majesty of Fear of the Dark.But a massive stadium show needs a special guest capable of burning the stage to the ground first, and who better than Dave Mustaine and his crew of thrash pioneers? Megadeth recently celebrated a massive milestone with their latest studio release hitting the number one spot right here in Australia. Fresh off the back of their blistering run at Knotfest a few years ago, the band is proving they still have plenty left in the tank. With rumors swirling that this epic global run might be a final world tour epilogue for the thrash titans, the anticipation is hitting an absolute fever pitch.Here at HEAVY, we live and breathe this stuff. So, when the opportunity came up to have a sit-down chat with the mastermind himself, Dave Mustaine, to talk about this impending Australian takeover, you better believe I jumped at the chance. Dave is a man who never pulls his punches, and he was in fine form talking about what it means to share a stage with Maiden, how much he loves the relentless energy of Aussie crowds, and what fans can expect when Megadeth unleashes absolute chaos on these massive stadium stages.So, before you scramble to secure those last-minute tickets, grab a cold beer, turn the volume up to eleven, and check out our exclusive chat with the one and only Dave Mustaine. Australia, get ready to run to the hills, because the countdown is officially on!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

When you think of theatrical, boundary-pushing heavy music, one name immediately commands the global spotlight: In This Moment. Led by the mesmerizing, chameleonic frontwoman Maria Brink and riff-master Chris Howorth, this band has spent nearly two decades turning live alternative metal into a dark, cinematic art form. Now, the Grammy-nominated force is back to claim their throne, unleashing their highly anticipated ninth studio album, Witch, on August 28 via Better Noise Music. It marks a bold new era for the group, following up on the raw energy of 2023's Godmode with something much more ritualistic, intense, and deeply introspective.Witch isn't just another collection of heavy moments; it's a full-blown musical incantation. Across 11 tracks, the album showcases the band's legendary sonic spectrum—the fury, the femininity, and the absolute fire. Brink describes the record as her personal "declaration of inner transformation," a visceral deep-dive into alchemizing pain, ancient trials, and personal persecution into pure, unadulterated strength. Musically, it's as heavy as it is haunting. Lead single Crawl seethes with an inescapable, gut-punching riff and a vocal performance that will bring you to your knees, while early teasers Heretic and Sleeping With the Enemy have already proved that In This Moment is operating at the absolute peak of their powers.True to form, the band isn't stepping into the dark alone. They've summoned an eclectic coven of special guests for this record, including Aussie alt-provocateur Kim Dracula on Heretic, post-hardcore titans Dayseeker on I Want To Believe, and an unexpected, star-studded cover of Pink Floyd's classic Another Brick In The Wall featuring the iconic Kat Von D. It's an ambitious, uncompromising body of work that takes the band's signature fusion of industrial groove and soaring melodic hooks, and pushes it right to the absolute edge.HEAVY caught up with Chris Howorth to unpack the magic and malice behind Witch. In the full interview, Chris dives deep into the creative process behind the new material and what it was like collaborating with such a diverse group of artists. We also chat about the upcoming Taste of Chaos tour with Hollywood Undead, how they plan to translate these complex, mystical themes into a jaw-dropping live spectacle, and why the concept of the witch resonates so heavily in modern times.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Western Sydney deathcore titans To The Grave have never been a band to play nice or bite their tongues.Over the last few years, they've systematically carved out a reputation as one of the most brutally uncompromising, intense acts on the global heavy music circuit. But if you thought their previous material was the peak of their hostility, you aren't prepared for what's next. To The Grave's sonic monstrosity Liberation Front is a terrifyingly heavy masterclass in musical warfare that takes their signature blend of suffocating breakdowns and socio-political fury to a dangerous new level.Liberation Front isn't just an album; it's a violent wake-up call. A call to arms if you will. Packed with the kind of volatile energy that makes you want to put your head through a drywall, the record finds To The Grave sharpening their technical knives while doubling down on their fierce animal rights advocacy and anti-establishment worldview. Vocalist Dane Evans sounds absolutely possessed, delivering a vocal performance so harrowing it defies human anatomy, backed by a rhythmic assault that feels like a multi-car pileup. It is heavy; it is uncomfortable; and it is utterly essential listening for anyone who likes their music with teeth. To celebrate this release, To The Grave are doing what they do best - hitting the tarmac for an eight date Australian headlining tour that promises to leave venues in absolute ruins across the country. Known for their chaotic, high-octane live environments, To The Grave live shows are legendary for their lawless mosh pits and sweat-soaked intensity. This time around, backed by the sheer weight of Liberation Front, the band is bringing an entirely new level of production and savagery to the stage. They are out to prove exactly why they hold the crown for Australia's heaviest export, and God help anyone standing in the front row when the first breakdown drops.In a first for HEAVY, we spoke with Evans while busy in his tattoo studio laying down some ink to dissect the chaotic birth of Liberation Front, the madness of preparing for a nationwide trek, and why To The Grave refuse to compromise on their message.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Words and interview by Kyra JadeYes I know, I come off clunky here. In my defence I had a few interviews back to back this particular day...I'm not one to shy away from leaving in my little discombobulated moments that make me human.HEAVY caught up with Chelsea Wolfe on the cusp of releasing her new album, The Dark. With a career spanning over many years; garnishing many amazing accomplishments in that time, I was spoilt for choice for topics to chat about. Ultimately we spoke about the art of being able to put into words complex feelings and emotions we experience as humans, the fact that Chelsea walked on Tiny Desk so that Napalm Death could fly and touching on the importance of reconnecting with your elders and sharing knowledge between generations.Until next time, legends!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Every now and then, a track lands on the HEAVY desk that doesn't just ask for your attention—it kicks the front door off its hinges, grabs you by the collar, and demands you sit down and listen. That is exactly what happened this week when the absolute powerhouses in KALATONE dropped their blistering new sonic assault, Nostalgia.If you've been tracking these guys like we have, you already know they aren't a band to content themselves with playing it safe. They are a unit built on sonic evolution, consistently twisting heavy music into something entirely their own. But even with their formidable track record, Nostalgia feels like a massive leap forward into a darker, heavier, and completely uncompromising headspace. It is a track that marries crushing, low-end riffs with a sweeping melodic vulnerability, proving once again that heavy music doesn't have to sacrifice emotion to remain completely irresistable.The single perfectly balances frantic, groove-driven verses with a chorus so massive it is destined to ignite festival stages and leave venues in absolute ruins. It is a relentless, four-minute masterclass in musical dynamics, showcasing a band firing on all cylinders and completely comfortable in their own skin.With the hard rock music scene clamouring to see what the band will do next, we caught up with the band to get the lowdown. In typical HEAVY fashion, we threw them completely into the deep end. We dug deep into the creative fire that sparked this new track, unpacked the intense sonic layers that make it a standout release, and discussed the other four tracks on their debut EP Pathways in more depth plus more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Few packages hitting Australian shores this year carry the sheer, unapologetic sonic weight of the upcoming Australia 2.0.2.6 tour. Headlined by LA neo-industrial heavyweights HEALTH, alongside French synthwave master Perturbator, the line-up is an absolute dream for anyone who loves their music dark, heavy, and deeply visceral.But if you think this run is just about the headliners, you are dead wrong. Opening the entire touring cycle is King Yosef, a Portland-based artist who refuses to be pigeonholed. Known for weaponising a volatile blend of industrial hardcore, metal rage, and blown-out electronics, Yosef is a certified force of nature. Off the back of his latest sonic assault, Spire of Fear, he is coming to tear local stages apart.When HEAVY caught up with the mastermind behind King Yosef ahead of the September tour—which kicks off at Brisbane's The Tivoli before steamrolling through Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart, Adelaide, and Fremantle—the excitement was palpable. This isn't just a standard metal gig; it is an immersive, multi-sensory purge designed to celebrate and dissect the digital decay of the modern era. Yosef has built a reputation for delivering uncompromised, vein-popping live energy that sets the perfect tone for a line-up of this calibre.We sat down with the man himself to get down and dirty about the upcoming Australian tour, how he approaches translating his chaotic studio creations into a massive live setting, what it's really like to share the stage with titans like HEALTH and Perturbator and more. Grab a beer, dial in, and find out exactly why this is one tour you absolutely cannot afford to miss.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Words and interview by Kyra JadeI don't know many people who wouldn't jump at the opportunity to interview Mastodon's drummer Brann Dailor. We all have our bucket list interviews and this had Simon, AKA HEAVY MAG'S 'Professor of Mastodon', written all over it. The universe had other plans this time and Si' was living it up in Bali. This meant it was my turn to jump in and make the most of this chance to ask all the quirky questions that have been burning a hole in my brain. Oh, and hopefully make our Professor proud…This year hasn't been without intense heartache and loss for Mastodon with the passing of Brent Hinds. I couldn't publish this interview without firstly expressing my deepest condolences to all band members and commend the way they've held themselves whilst navigating such a hard time. As adoring fans we may feel we are so connected to our favourite bands through their music that we lose sight of reality sometimes. I think it's important to remember that to the members of Mastodon Brent wasn't only a fellow band member, he was family. Their bond built through years of experiencing massive highs and crushing lows together; ultimately building a brotherhood only they understand. For this reason I made a decision to respect Brann's space by keeping my questions light-hearted in hopes this might give him somewhat of a breather.There's no shortage of things I wanted to talk about. Sometimes it takes me forever to write merely four questions to ask in an interview, for this one I was wondering how I would cram two pages of questions into 20 minutes? Things like… What was the scoop on their gig at Georgia's Aquarium, are fish a tough crowd to play for? Why would someone who doesn't know how to draw decide to illustrate a different clown each day of COVID totalling a whopping 101? Why?! What's it like having your song picked on Drumeo? The list goes on…Brann is not only a huge fan of Ozzy Osbourne, he's blessed with a treasure trove of memories I can only dream of; including being invited to play at the Back to The Beginning, Black Sabbath's farewell concert! Who better to watch gush over the Godfather of Metal and geek out with than this guy, right?! I'll shamelessly take any and every opportunity to talk about Ozzy. Having conversations with people who were in his orbit somehow makes me feel like I'm a part of their world, if only for a second.Mastodon's new album Marrow Deep is very close to its release date of August 28. Though it may technically be my job to share my thoughts on new music, I don't think it's necessary to try to sell this one. I'll simply be stating what you already know deep down inside. It's a masterpiece. It may be fiercely complex and deeply thought provoking, although it still manages to give you that sprinkle of crazy we crave - all while being generous in sharing their raw emotion and feelings.Hope you enjoy this interview as much as I did.Until next time, legends!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Ali WilliamsThere are still very much mixed opinions out there in music land when it comes to tribute bands. Hard core fanboys will state "there is only ever one ..."(insert band name here), others will be highly critical unless its a carbon copy of the original artists , and on the other side of that some will say they have a place only if the artists is now frontman for that big band in the sky, "so they better make it sound like their own not the original". Honouring the music of legendary acts such as Chris Cornell is a task that not many could say they could easily achieve or at least not to other musicians. His work moves, it unsettles, it still catches people off guard, and still exposes every vocalist who has ever confused enthusiasm with ability. So when Mark Menghi stepped into that world with KING ULTRAMEGA, he did not do it with a quick nod, a famous guest list and a hope that everybody would behave nicely in the comments section. He did it slowly, carefully, obsessively, and with enough respect to make the whole thing feel less like a project and more like a responsibility. Speaking with HEAVY's Ali Williams, Menghi explained that KING ULTRAMEGA began during the pandemic, back when musicians were stuck at home, the world was sideways, and apparently some people coped by making excellent music instead of reorganising the same cupboard twelve times and pretending it counted as personal growth.Check out the full interview: heavymag.com.auBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Ali WilliamsCalling a performance One Last Time sounds decisive until the band involved is Lynchmada. Bassist Daryl Russell has already watched one emphatic farewell lead to another show four months later, so he is sensibly refusing to manage anybody's expectations beyond Saturday. This could be the end. It could also become further evidence that Lynchmada are considerably better at metal than they are at remaining finished. Speaking with HEAVY's Ali Williams ahead of the band's appearance at Necrosonic, Daryl described the return with magnificent understatement as “a whole lot of a lot, and a whole lot of nothing.” This Saturday, August 22, the Gold Coast five-piece will return to Brisbane's Mansfield Tavern for Necrosonic Festival 2026, taking the HEAVY Stage at 6.15pm for an exclusive performance. After years out of regular action, the band had more to contend with than remembering where everybody stood. Rehearsals were required, muscles needed reminding and an entire back catalogue had to be physically negotiated by men now old enough to understand the consequences of poor posture.Full interview heavymag.com.auNECROSONIC tickets: https://tickets.oztix.com.au/outlet/event/571c76f6-8314-43fd-a6ee-cc7c67a199cfBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Ali WilliamsThere are busy years, and then there is whatever FALLUJAH have decided to do with 2026. When Kyle Schaefer joins HEAVY's Ali Williams from Nashville, the band are in the middle of an international schedule that has already taken them through Europe and Latin America, with Japan, the United States, Canada and Australia still sitting on the itinerary. For Schaefer, who has spent roughly five years with FALLUJAH, it is comfortably the most geographically ambitious year he has experienced with the band. Australia gets its turn in September when FALLUJAH return for ShredFest alongside OBSCURA and the rest of a lineup built squarely for people who consider excessive fretwork a perfectly reasonable form of entertainment. More importantly, this will be FALLUJAH's first Australian visit since the release of Xenotaph, giving local audiences their first chance to hear the album where it was intended to live: at substantial volume, in a room full of people. It will be the band's third trip to Australia and Schaefer's second. The distance involved means international goodwill alone does not get a band here. Flights, equipment, personnel and the routine expense of moving a touring operation across a country this large require an audience at the other end, and Schaefer is well aware that FALLUJAH have one.Full interview heavymag.com.auBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Angela CroudaceAfter seven years Simple Plan are finally returning to Australia's Good Things Festival, and guitarist Jeff Stinco couldn't be more excited to be back.Speaking ahead of the festival lineup announcement, Stinco admitted he couldn't believe it had been seven years since the band last played Good Things. What he remembers most is the festival's diverse lineup, which allowed him to discover and enjoy artists from across different genres. But above everything else, he says, returning to Australia is the highlight.“It's amazing to be back in Australia,” Stinco said, describing the country as somewhere he has always loved visiting. From the food and sights to reconnecting with fans, Australia holds a special place for the guitarist, who even admits he could have imagined living here.Simple Plan's return also comes after decades of highs and lows, something Stinco says has taught him an important lesson: resilience. The band experienced unsuccessful records, difficult tours and even periods where they returned to playing smaller Australian clubs. Rather than giving up, they continued pushing forward.That determination remains part of Simple Plan's identity today. Stinco says the band still operates with a surprisingly small team, with the members heavily involved in everything from social media to their stage production. For him, maintaining that hands-on approach helps preserve the band's authenticity.And fans attending Good Things can expect a celebration of Simple Plan's entire history. Stinco promises they are “pulling all the stops,” bringing everything from the band's history to its funnier moments, while also revealing that they are working on new material. He stopped short of promising new songs at the festival, but teased that the set will be longer and packed with the classic Simple Plan experience.“It's going to be pretty fun. It's going to be a big party.”After seven years away, it sounds like Simple Plan are ready to make their return to Good Things one worth remembering.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

If you call yourself a fan of traditional, hard-hitting German rock and power metal, then the name Mad Max should already be permanently tattooed onto your musical psyche. For over four decades, these absolute legends have been tearing up stages and delivering riffs that could shatter concrete. They are a band that refuses to slow down, refuses to compromise, and quite frankly, they just keep getting better with age. Now, they are back to reclaim their throne with a brand-new slab of audio warfare titled Stories Of Destiny, and let me tell you, it is an absolute monster of a record.From the second you drop the needle on this bad boy, you are hit with that classic, unmistakable Mad Max DNA—thunderous rhythms, soaring anthemic vocals, and guitar solos so blistering they will melt your face clean off. But Stories Of Destiny isn't just a nostalgia trip; it is a vital, forward-surging masterclass in how to keep heavy music alive and kicking in the modern era. It is cinematic, it is emotionally charged, and it proves that the creative fire burning inside this band is hotter than ever before.I had the absolute privilege of sitting down with the driving force behind Mad Max  - Jürgen Breforth - to dissect the blood, sweat, and tears that went into forging this new masterpiece. We talk about the concepts behind the tracks, the evolution of their signature sound, and exactly what it takes to maintain this level of ferocious energy after forty years in the game. So, crank your speakers up to eleven, crack open a cold one, and get ready. Heavy Metal Thunder is about to strike. Welcome to the world of Mad Max and the Stories Of Destiny!"I have to say it's kind of an anniversary album you know," Jürgen began, "because I founded the band in 1981 and now 45 years later I'm celebrating 45 years with the band but I didn't want to call it anniversary album that's too simple for me and my drummer axel cruise who's with me for 40 years now he joined the band in 85. He came up with the title Stories of Destiny, and that pretty much nails the story of the album because each and every song on the album stands for a kind of a decade of the band."Find out more in the full interview.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Ali WilliamsIf you call yourself a true-blue supporter of the Australian heavy music landscape, then the name Segression shouldn't just ring a bell—it should trigger absolute, unadulterated audio warfare in your eardrums. For three decades, these Wollongong legends have stood as one of the country's most relentless and enduring metal forces, a band forged in fire and built on pure, unfiltered groove and aggression. They've shared massive stages with the likes of Slipknot, Pantera, and Ozzy Osbourne, cementing their reputation as a premier live assault unit that never compromises. After scoring a stellar No. 2 spot on the iTunes metal charts with their recently dropped retrospective, The Best of Segression, the boys proved that their focused brand of sonic artillery is sharper and heavier than ever before.Now, the cosmic alignments of the heavy underground have summoned these titans back from the void for something truly monumental. This Saturday, August 22, the legendary Mansfield Tavern in Brisbane is set to transform into a sacred ground of absolute chaos for the third annual Necrosonic Festival. The line-up is an absolute monster, featuring international tech-death visionaries Rivers of Nihil alongside homegrown elite like Psycroptic, Gravemind, and a resurrected The Berzerker. But right at the absolute heart of this 12-hour, 30-band auditory bloodbath is an exclusive, highly anticipated 30-year milestone reunion set from Segression. The altar has spoken, and the message is clear: if you aren't in the pit for this rare, fleeting return to the stage, you're missing out on a certified piece of Australian heavy music history.Ahead of what promises to be an unhinged, sweat-soaked day of brutal riffage and flying bodies, HEAVY caught up with the band to see how the camp is holding up before descending upon Brisbane. We threw down the ultimate festival challenge, dug into their blueprint for surviving a massive marathon day of metal, and got the lowdown on which classic tracks are going to absolutely level the main room. Grab a cold one, lace up your most reliable pit shoes, and find out exactly what happens when one of Australia's hardest-hitting bands prepares to reclaim the throne.NECROSONIC tix: tickets.oztix.com.au/outlet/event/571c76f6-8314-43fd-a6ee-cc7c67a199cfBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Ali WilliamsFor over a decade, Swedish melodic power metal outfit Metalite has stood at the absolute cutting edge of heavy music, carving out a distinct identity by fusing futuristic science fiction narratives with high-octane energy. Founded in 2015 by guitarist and main songwriter Edwin Premberg, the band quickly garnered a massive international following with their stellar debut, Heroes in Time. They further cemented their reputation as modern electronic metal pioneers across subsequent records like Biomechanicals and A Virtual World. By successfully wedding cinematic synthesizers, heavy guitar riffs, and soaring hooks, they built a highly distinct sonic universe. Now, they are prepared to unleash their most conceptually expansive and musically punishing statement yet. On 25 September 2026, Metalite will officially release their highly anticipated studio album, Discovery, via Perception / Reigning Phoenix Music.Discovery serves as a direct, sweeping sci-fi sequel to their previous narrative arcs, continuing an epic storyline that explores human evolution, advanced technology, and space survival in an increasingly unstable digital age. Musically, the album introduces a massive step forward in overall production and performance. Mixed and mastered by the legendary Danish producer Jacob Hansen, who is famed for his work with Volbeat, Evergrey, and Amaranthe, the record delivers a crushing, heavier low-end. It masterfully showcases an aggressive wall of sound that doesn't compromise the band's signature melodic shine. This brand new record also marks the studio debut of new drummer Erik Junttila, who infuses the technical compositions with a blistering, fresh rhythmic precision.Ahead of the full release, fans have already been treated to a diverse spread of singles that showcase the sheer breadth of Discovery. High-energy tracks like Our Time Has Come and Starchild set a fast, triumphant pace, while the heavy rhythms of In Case of Emergency offer a powerful commentary on loyalty and mutual support amidst modern chaos. More recently, the deeply evocative single Echoes of You revealed a darker, highly emotional side to the album, emphasizing the haunting nature of persistent memories and demonstrating the profound vocal range of frontwoman Erica Ohlsson. From complex synth arrangements to bone-shattering guitar work, Discovery stands as a bold declaration of innovation in modern power metal.We had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Metalite mastermind Edwin Premberg to talk all things Discovery. In this insightful conversation, we pull back the curtain on the creative process behind writing songs around an overarching science fiction narrative and dive into the band's deliberate evolution toward a heavier, more low-end-driven mix. Furthermore, Edwin reflects on the sheer technological leap of producing complex modern music—vividly charting his own journey from writing primitive early tracks on a vintage Amiga 500 computer to commanding a limitless digital recording studio. Grab your headphones, step into the cyberspace matrix, and join us as we dive into the bold new era of Metalite.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

If you've got your finger anywhere near the pulse of the Australian metal/alternative scene, you know exactly what last night was. It was the official launch of the highly anticipated Oddworld Underground Australian Tour, and it all kicked off last night in Western Australia at the legendary Amplifier Bar in Perth.We are sitting down with the absolute kings of eccentric heavy tunes, the one and only Ocean Grove, with frontman Dale Tanner shunning valuable rehearsal time to bring us up to speed. These Melbourne nu-metal misfits have spent the last twelve months completely tearing up international stages, including a massive run across the UK and Europe supporting fellow Aussies Thornhill. After leaving a trail of beautiful destruction overseas, Ocean Grove are finally back on home soil for their first proper headline run in what feels like an eternity. Last night sparked a relentless nine-day, five-city assault that will see the band unleash captivating chaos through Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, and Newcastle, before wrapping it all up with a massive final show at The Princess Theatre in Brisbane on Saturday, August 22.Ocean Grove aren't doing things by halves either; recruiting New Orleans metalcore heavyweights Cane Hill who mark their monumental return to Australian shores for the first time in a decade. If that wasn't enough to push the boundaries of your local venue, Western Sydney's hardcore-metal powerhouses Deficit are on the bill to provide absolute live spectacles, alongside the stunning cinematic shoegaze textures of Adelaide's very own Blinder.This tour promises to be an absolute headline run for the ages; a full-throttle celebration of what makes the alternative heavy music scene in this country so incredibly unique. HEAVY caught up with Dale just hours before stepping onto the stage to talk about bringing the Oddworld universe back home, the absolute madness of touring with international heavyweights, and what fans can expect when the doors finally open.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Angela CroudaceIf you like your heavy music served with a massive side of absolute, unadulterated chaos and a theatrical bite, then grab yourself a slice of the dance floor and brace your necks. The Swedish metal visionaries collectively known as Avatar are finally making their way back Down Under, and trust me when I say this is shaping up to be one of the absolute heaviest and most anticipated spectacles of the entire year.Renowned across the globe for their legendary performances, ludicrous levels of musical skill, and a seemingly endless catalogue of killer anthems, Avatar have long been your favorite metal band's favorite metal band. We are talking about a group so highly respected that Iron Maiden routinely invites them out on tour, and the late, great Vinnie Paul once claimed that Dimebag Darrell himself would have been jealous of their monstrous guitar riffs.Ever since Avatar stormed their way onto the international circuit, these guys have refused to follow the traditional rules of engagement. They smashed their way onto the charts with the universally acclaimed Dance Devil Dance, and they are continuing that streak of pure creative madness with their latest dark masterwork, Don't Go in the Forest. Their single Death and Glitz is a perfect example of what makes this band so special. It is a track fueled by crushing grooves, hypnotic hooks, and a uniquely perverted, detached sense of storytelling that only Avatar can deliver.For Australian audiences, these upcoming live dates are not just regular rock shows; they are an invitation into an entirely different, beautifully twisted universe. This is a band that commands the side of the stage at every major European and American festival, with members of metal royalty standing by just to watch them work their magic. Now, it is Australia's turn to step inside the circus tent and experience the sonic violence firsthand.HEAVY grabbed the ultimate opportunity to sit down with the band's enigmatic, charismatic frontman, Johannes Eckerström. In true Avatar fashion, we went completely down the garden path to talk about the preparation behind their chaotic live assault, the creative evolution of their newest material, what it feels like to bring their signature blend of death and glitz back to local soil, and why Australian fans can no longer be denied.So turn the volume right up, check out the full chat below, and make sure you grab your tickets NOW before they vanish.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Ali WilliamsCORELEONI have a new album on the way, Generection and guitarist Leo Leoni sounds exactly as you would hope somebody still making rock records after more than thirty years would sound: pleased to be there and keen to keep going. The album came together quickly. The band collected ideas, got together and worked through them while everyone was still fired up, and within a few months the record was finished. It was actually completed by the end of last year before switching record labels, which pushed the release back several times.Check out heavymag.com.au for the full interviewBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Ali Williams There are bad weeks, and then there are weeks where the rehearsal studio you spent a year building burns for 4 days, TEMPLES ON MARS guitarist and vocalist James Donaldson joined HEAVY's Ali Williams somewhat later than originally planned, although his excuse was considerably better than forgetting to check the calendar. Back in the end of June, the London building housing the band's newly completed rehearsal space and studio went up in flames, bringing 150 firefighters and 25 fire engines to the scene and taking 4 days to extinguish. Nobody was hurt, which remains the only part of that story worth celebrating, but the timing was particularly brutal given TEMPLES ON MARS had only just finished creating the space in the first place. Building their own headquarters had been a practical answer to the expensive and restrictive reality of London rehearsal rooms. After spending the better part of a year getting everything operational, the band finally had somewhere they could rehearse and record on their own terms. After having a rehearsal there on the Wednesday night, by the following Friday , they were receiving photographs of the entire building burning.Full interview heavymag.com.auBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Angela CroudaceFor Sonny Lanegan, frontman of Noir Addiction, music is about creating something authentic enough to pull listeners into its world.Speaking about the band's latest EP, Pretty Things Don't Last, Sonny explained that its songs explore love, obsession, addiction and the desire to escape life. While each track stands on its own, he believes the EP becomes connected when heard as a whole.The band's sound blends electronic textures, industrial influences, alternative rock and pop hooks, with Sonny revealing that Money for the Honey began with a beat rather than a guitar riff. Inspired by the music he grew up listening to, the 1990s, he says he asks himself one question when writing: “Will I buy this album?”That authenticity is central to Noir Addiction, especially after Sonny stepped into the role of vocalist following the departure of the band's original singer. Despite the pressure and anxiety of creating the EP under tight time constraints, he is proud of what emerged.With live shows receiving enthusiastic responses, Noir Addiction are now looking toward the future, and hopefully Australia. For Sonny, the goal is simple: to create music that gives listeners the connection and comfort he found in the bands he loved growing up.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Brisbane has a fiercely proud history of producing world-class rock performers, with the production line rolling out yet another slab of excellence to continue the momentum. The newest addition is Runt, a powerhouse four-piece alternative rock and grunge outfit that refuses to play by the rules. Describing their massive sound as having an "underdog chip on its shoulder," this hungry local lineup strips away the facades of modern studio trickery, instead focusing on an unapologetic, face-melting assault built on huge riffs, hypnotic hooks, and visceral melody.The brainchild of singer, guitarist, and main songwriter Jesse Attard - who some would know as having played Angus Young with Accadacca across the world - Runt are a band born from the road and custom-built to survive. Attard quietly amassed a deep treasure trove of killer material while touring internationally as a hired gun, but realised these songs needed an assortment of like -minded, talented musicians to do them justice. Settling on guitarist John Dempsey, bassist Damian Bell, and drummer Robbie Wheeler, Attard had the foundations for success and took the next step as a fully fledged original band.The music industry is officially on notice. Runt's highly anticipated, self-titled debut album drops like a bomb on August 7, 2026, through independent Australian powerhouse label XMusic. Moving completely away from predictable commercial trends, Runt approached their debut not as a lazy playlist, but as a lean, curated collection of stories where each track has its own distinct pulse, purpose, and attitude. Sonically, this record leans hard into the dark, atmospheric, and beautifully heavy territory carved out by 1990s grunge heavyweights like Alice In Chains, Soundgarden, and Stone Temple Pilots, but with a distinctly unique flavour that stamps a fresh take on the genre.HEAVY sat down with Attard to find out more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Australian progressive metal fans, it is finally time to stop pinching yourselves because the wait is officially over. Sweden's undisputed kings of cognitive, emotionally driven heavy music, SOEN, are finally hitting our shores this October. For a band that has spent the last decade and a half redefining the very boundaries of modern prog with their intoxicating blend of crushing riffs, soaring melodies, and intricate rhythms, an Australian tour has been a glaring omission on their map. But thanks to The Phoenix, the group is making the long trek downstairs for their highly anticipated Reliance Tour.Led by the rhythmic powerhouse Martin Lopez and the fiercely captivating vocals of Joel Ekelöf, SOEN has built a reputation as a band that doesn't just play music; they craft worlds. Ever since their groundbreaking 2012 debut album Cognitive, they have consistently evolved, layering their sound with deep atmospheric tension, crushing sonic weight, and a level of melancholic beauty that few can replicate. They possess that rare live alchemy that turns a standard metal gig into a borderline religious experience.Starting Friday, 16 October at 170 Russell in Melbourne, before moving to Sydney's Manning Bar on 17 October and wrapping up at Brisbane's beloved heavy haven, the Crowbar, on 19 October, this run promises to be an absolute masterclass in live performance. Adding absolute fuel to the fire, Aussie homegrown instrumental progressive royalty The Omnific are jumping on as special guests, celebrating their monumental 10th anniversary.HEAVY caught up with the mastermind himself, Martin Lopez, to get the absolute lowdown on what took them so long to get here, how they plan to condense a massive, career-spanning discography into a single, explosive headlining set, what Australian fans can expect when Sweden's premier sonic architects finally unleash their live show on our stages and more.SOEN + THE OMNIFIC October 2026 Australian Tour DatesFriday 16th October MELBOURNE, 170 RussellSaturday 17th October SYDNEY, Manning BarMonday 19th October BRISBANE, CrowbarTickets thephoenix.auBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Brisbane is about to get hit by an absolute wall of sonic destruction. The third annual Necrosonic Festival is locking and loading for its most brutal ritual yet, taking over the legendary Mansfield Tavern on Saturday, August 22, 2026. We are talking 12-plus hours of pure, unadulterated musical chaos spread across three massive stages. While the international heavyweights in Rivers of Nihil and local tech-death royalty Psycroptic are rightfully drawing plenty of attention, it is the deeper, darker corners of this stacked Australian lineup where the real magic happens. Enter Barriers.Hailing from the southern heavy hotbeds of Adelaide and Melbourne, this crushing four-piece outfit does not just play heavy music—they manipulate it. They have engineered a sonic identity that stands defiantly apart from the standard cookie-cutter template. By blending the progressive complexity of Meshuggah, the expansive, atmospheric dread of Cult of Luna, and the sheer, mid-paced tectonic groove of Gojira, Barriers have created a monster. It is raw, minimal, and completely unsettling.If you have spun their debut EP, Decay, you already know the band relies heavily on dark contrasts. They masterfully balance suffocating doom with sudden, violent bursts of death metal intensity. Frontman and producer Kyle Bloksgaard injects a vocal dynamic that handles deeply personal torment just as easily as it spits socio-political venom. At HEAVY, we love throwing down a challenge. We sent out our traditional Q&A sheet to the entire Necrosonic lineup, warning every band that a failure to reply meant buying the HEAVY crew a beer at the venue. While we were quietly hoping to score a mountain of free pints, the Barriers boys ruined our plans by being some of the very first to get back to us! They are hungry, they are focused, and they are ready to lay waste to Brisbane. Do not sleep on this set.HEAVY spoke with Kyle to get the lowdown.Necrosonic tickets and more information: https://necrosonicfestival.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Five Finger Death Punch are back with absolute chaos on their tenth studio album, Legacy. Formed in Las Vegas, the multi-platinum metal titans are marking their 20th anniversary by delivering an aggressive masterclass in modern hard rock. If you thought 2022's AfterLife pushed their boundaries, this new record proves that 5FDP are actively evolving without losing their signature, in-your-face snarl.The record kicks off like a sledgehammer to the jaw with the fierce album opener, Legacy, instantly setting a thunderous tone for the ten tracks that follow and showcasing guitarist Zoltan Bathory's striking, original guitar punches alongside Andy James' technical precision. Frontman Ivan Moody sounds completely possessed here, teetering his vocals between pure desperation and soaring, melodic, hook-laden possibility.What makes Legacy work so fabulously is its relentless, structured information density; the songs are succinct, intentional, and strip away all unnecessary filler. Coinciding with their massive 2026-2028 world tour, the album masterfully captures heavy themes of exhaustion, frustration, and ultimate artistic survival. HEAVY sat down with Bathory to find out more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

If you like your heavy music served with a side of absolute, unadulterated chaos, then grab a cold beer and brace yourself. Gold Coast alternative metal titans Sunk Loto are officially heading back out on the road this August for their highly anticipated Dead Shadows Tour. Trust me when I say this is shaping up to be one of the absolute heaviest and most intense runs of the year.For those who need a quick history lesson, Sunk Loto dominated the Australian heavy music landscape in the late '90s and early 2000s, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with international giants like Korn and Deftones. Their seminal 2003 masterpiece, Between Birth and Death, became a gold-standard textbook for Aussie metalcore. Then, they abruptly vanished into the ether for fifteen years.When they burst back onto the live circuit in 2022, they didn't just play shows; they absolutely decimated venues across the country to a multi-generational, bloodthirsty crowd. Last year, they threw even more fuel on the fire by welcoming guitar wizard Rohan Stevenson (from I Built The Sky) into the fold, instantly locking in an explosive new creative energy.Now, the boys are back to unleash their brand new single, Dead Shadows, tracked alongside the legendary producer Forrester Savell. To celebrate, they are completely ditching the sterile festival barriers and massive production rigs. Instead, they are opting for the sweaty, high-octane violence of intimate, grassroots rooms.This brief, relentless East Coast trek will see the band tear through the Coolongatta Hotel on August 7 before two shows at Brisbane's Crowbar on August 8 and 11, Sydney's Crowbar on August 13, and finish by ripping the roof off Melbourne's legendary Corner Hotel on August 14. Tickets are already flying out the door, and if you know anything about a Sunk Loto mosh pit, you know the band actively instigates absolute madness from the barrier to the back wall. Fans can expect a massive, curated setlist packed with deep cuts that haven't seen the light of day in decades, mixed with the crushing weight of their new material.HEAVY sat down with Stevenson to chew the fat over the creation of Dead Shadows, navigating their brutal new lineup dynamics, and exactly what kind of beautiful insanity they plan to bring to Australian stages next month.Tickets https://teamwrktouring.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Ali WilliamsPARADISE LOST have spent close to four decades making misery sound magnificent. While countless bands have shuffled through genres, line-ups and ill-advised creative awakenings, the UK veterans have built an entire legacy from heaviness, melancholy and the endless human capacity to stare into the void and find a decent guitar melody lurking inside it. After almost a decade-long absence, Paradise Lost are finally returning to Australia. Guitarist and songwriter Gregor Mackintosh joined HEAVY's Ali Williams to discuss the band's long-awaited visit, their latest album Ascension, the record he threw away before writing it properly, and why owning an album once required commitment, patience and occasionally forcing yourself to enjoy something because the record shop refused to take it back. The Australian dates arrive at the end of a substantial journey through Japan and China, opening their Downunder at Brisbane's The Triffid on October 18 before heading to Sydney's Factory Theatre on October 19 and Melbourne's Max Watt's on October 20. Understandably, Mackintosh is eager to return, although asking him for the exact itinerary produced the kind of uncertainty normally reserved for musicians who have sensibly chosen not to examine how many airports stand between Yorkshire and Brisbane. “I don't know how my itinerary works,” he admitted.  Probably best. Nothing good comes from learning too early how long you will be sitting upright while crossing continents. Check out the full interview for more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Brisbane's Mansfield Tavern is locking its doors and bracing for total structural failure. The third annual Necrosonic Festival is descending on Saturday, August 22, 2026, delivering 12-plus hours of unrelenting extremity across three stages. While international powerhouses Rivers of Nihil and homegrown technical death metal legends Psycroptic are set to co-headline, the middle tier of this massive bill holds some of the most devastating weapons in the Australian heavy music arsenal. If you want a band that will completely tear the skin from your face with clinical, heavy precision, look no further than Melbourne deathcore juggernauts Gravemind.These guys have spent years mastering a sound that functions like a well-oiled killing machine. They don't just write breakdowns; they engineer sonic earthquakes that blend punishing, technical riffs with vast, cinematic atmosphere. Following the massive success of their critically acclaimed sophomore album Introsphere, released via Greyscale Records, Gravemind have proven they are not content with sitting safely inside the boundaries of traditional deathcore. They weaponise melody, injecting dark progressive layers and experimental dynamics that keep listeners totally off-balance before delivering a swift, blunt-force trauma to the jaw.HEAVY sat down with vocalist Bailey to find out more about what to expect at Necrosonic.Tickets to Necrosonic and more information https://necrosonicfestival.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

If you call yourself a fan of heavy music and your pulse isn't already racing, you need to check your vitals right now. The absolute masters of Floridian metalcore, Wage War, are officially gearing up to bring their massive, unrelenting It Calls Me By Name world tour down under. This isn't just another casual standard run across the ocean, folks; this is a full-blown, sonic assault that is set to completely decimate every single venue it touches.The demand out there is already completely mental. We have already seen the Melbourne show get a massive venue upgrade to The Forum because Aussie heavy music fans simply cannot get enough of what these guys bring to the table. Brisbane and Sydney are staring down the barrel of selling out entirely. If you are sitting on the fence waiting to grab your tickets, you are going to miss out on one of the most essential heavy packages of the entire year.What makes Wage War such a beautiful, brutal force of nature is their incredible ability to balance sheer, unadulterated chaos with absolute melodic perfection. They throw down some of the most bone-shattering, snarling breakdowns you will ever hear in your life, but they seamlessly back it up with these infectious, soaring hooks that just get completely buried in your head. Tracks from their brand-new EP It Calls Me By Name, alongside their massive back catalogue, are built specifically to ignite the mosh pit.And let's talk about the supports, because this line-up is completely stacked from top to bottom. Sharing the stage on this absolute monster of a tour are Nashville hardcore legends Orthodox, who bring a filthy, aggressive edge, and Melbourne's very own rising heavy juggernauts Heavensgate.HEAVY caught up with vocalist Briton Bond and guitars/clean vocals Cody Quistad to chat more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersIf you like your heavy music served with a side of absolute, unadulterated chaos, then grab a cold beer and brace yourself, because Swiss deathcore juggernauts Paleface Swiss are heading back Down Under. After completely decimating venues across the country on their sold-out 2025 run, the Zurich four-piece have just announced a massive seven-date Australian headline tour for January and February 2027. Trust me when I say this is shaping up to be one of the absolute heaviest and most anticipated tours of the year.Ever since they detonated onto the global metal scene, Paleface Swiss have earned a formidable reputation for unleashing some of the most volatile and relentlessly aggressive live shows on the planet. Led by the maniacal vocal delivery of frontman Marc "Zelli" Zellweger, the band has been steadily conquering the heavy music world, a fact proven by their latest record, Cursed, smashing its way into the top ten of the Spotify Global Charts. Now, armed with a brand new EP, The Wilted, and a hunger to tear our rooms apart, they are ready to level up the aggression for Aussie crowds.But they aren't coming alone. To ensure maximum sonic devastation, they are bringing Canadian metalcore powerhouses Counterparts - fronted by the unfiltered Brendan Murphy - and Colorado's crushing hardcore-groove outfit Fox Lake along for the ride. The tour kicks off at the Astor Theatre in Perth on Wednesday, 27 January, before hitting Adelaide's ferocious Froth & Fury Festival, Melbourne's iconic Forum, Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane, and wrapping up in Townsville. It is a massive, comprehensive lap of honour that proves just how much these Swiss heavyweights love the insane energy of the Australian metal community.I had the absolute pleasure of pulling up a virtual barstool with the main man himself, Marc "Zelli" Zellweger, to find out exactly what the band has in store for us. We chatted all about the chaotic memories from their last Australian visit, the intense sonic evolution behind their latest brutal material, and what it feels like to lead one of the fastest-growing forces in modern extreme music. Zelli is always one of the most passionate, down-to-earth guys to speak to in the business, and his excitement for this upcoming run is completely infectious. So, turn the volume up to eleven, check out our full chat below, and make sure you secure your tickets before they inevitably vanish!Tickets www.thephoenix.auBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Kris PetersWhen American metal titans Motionless In White announce a new record, the heavy music community stands up and takes notice. Celebrating two decades of sonic devastation, Chris Motionless and his gothic-metalcore troupe are poised to unleash their highly anticipated seventh studio album, Decades, on July 17. It is a monstrous, career-defining release that effortlessly honours their dark history while forcefully kicking down the doors to the future.  From the industrial venom of the lead singles to the monumental collaborations featuring massive names like Slipknot's Corey Taylor plus Skylar Grey, Decades is a masterclass in survival, raw passion, and artistic evolution.HEAVY sat down with frontman Chris Motionless to find out more."It's an exciting time," he enthused when asked how he is feeling about the new album. "We have been working for what feels like literally forever on the record, (laughs) so it's still very weird for me to think that we even have singles out… It's just a very different shift in life, but it's really cool because finally the music gets to see the light of day."We ask Chris to tell us more about Decades musically."This one was definitely - as every band's gonna tell you (smiles) - trying to go above everything we've ever done," he replied. "Catchier. Heavier, blah blah blah, but it's true. We definitely wanted to make sure that everything that we do, that I think the fans love the most, was considered heavily on this one. We really wanted to try and make sure that their feedback was listened to and that we were integrating what fans love the most and then what we love most about the band, and I think that's maybe the reason why things feel pretty positive so far."We bring up the heavier aspect alluded to on Decades, asking what he means specifically by heavier."I would say it's a mixture of everything," he measured. "I think the music may not be so much heavier all around, but there's definitely much more energy. There's so much more fast-paced, or more… just much more energy in every way. There's only one sad, emotional song, per se. Usually, we have three or four, but this one's only got the main one, and the rest is constant rolling energy that I think really helps the album feel different from any other Motionless record. The lyrical content, yeah. Some of it's heavy, some of it's fun. It's a good mixture of everything. I wouldn't say that there's too much, like, you're gonna hear and go (exhales deeply) I need a break from that. It's more meant to be an exciting and uplifting experience."In the full interview, Chris dives deeper into the musicality of Decades, including the well-documented writer's block he had early in the process, what snapped that and how it impacted the rest of the album. He talked us through the opening track, Decades, and why it was chosen to introduce the album, as well as the momentum shift between songs on the album and how Motionless In White allow for a smooth transition.We talked about the different genres expressed in Motionless In White's music, and how they find the balance in the creative process, the first time he heard one of their songs on the radio and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

The Meanies are absolute legends of Australian punk rock, and they are tearing through 2026 like a runaway train. Formed in Melbourne back in 1988, these sonic maniacs have spent nearly four decades delivering chaotic, high-energy pop-punk packed with hooks and bruises. Fronted by the indestructible Link Meanie, they are a band that leaves everything on the stage - literally - known for chaotic live sets that frequently end with broken gear or broken bones. After surviving decades of rock 'n' roll storms, they are still one of the most vital, loud, and uncompromising underground bands in the country.If you think these veteran punks are slowing down, you are dead wrong. The rest of 2026 is completely packed with heavy riffs, interstate chaos, and killer new wax. The band is currently crisscrossing the country on a huge national run. They are teaming up with their longtime brothers-in-arms, Spiderbait, acting as the main support on the massive Ivy & The Big Apples anniversary tour. This means they are bringing their blistering noise to huge venues like Adelaide's Hindley Street Music Hall on 25 July and Canberra's legendary venue The Baso on 30 July.Right after the arena-sized rock shows, The Meanies are jumping straight back into the sweaty club trenches. They have joined forces with Queensland punk unit Dad Fight for a brutal split 7-inch vinyl release featuring fresh tracks from both bands. Dubbed "the old bull and the young calf, together at last," they are launching the wax with a lethal East Coast tour. HEAVY caught up with Link Meanie to find out more, asking how the body is holding up these days."Oh, pretty shit," he laughed. "Yeah, I was just rueing selling the comfy chair that I had here, and now I'm just sitting on a drum stool. My back's fucking killing me! I've done so much damage over the years that I knew it would come back and bite me at some stage."We follow up by asking Link if he finds the need to do more stretches and warm-ups now before hitting the stage."The only time I was ever fit in my life was probably the turn of the millennium when I was doing Kung Fu, and I was actually quite fit then," he smiled. "God, I'm a couch potato now (laughs)."In the full interview, we chat more about life on the road and the perils of ageing. We discussed still touring with Spiderbait and Link's memories of the very first time they played together, as well as a list of upcoming shows this year.The run of shows with Dad Fight was discussed, including the nurturing role The Meanies play when hitting the road with the next generation of bands. We talked about the 7" split single release between The Meanies and Dad Fight and where to get it, as well as the possibility of a new album in the near future and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Sydney six-string maestro Plini has just unleashed his monumental third studio album, An Unnameable Desire, and it is a certified masterpiece. For a musician who already operates in the absolute stratosphere of technical guitar playing, this new record pushes his sonic boundaries into completely uncharted territory. It is heavier, prettier, more complex, and utterly brilliant.If you thought his previous masterpieces like Handmade Cities or Impulse Voices were the pinnacle of modern guitar music, prepare to have your mind completely blown. An Unnameable Desire is a cinematic rollercoaster that perfectly balances jaw-dropping polyrhythms with celestial jazz-fusion soundscapes. Plini has reunited with his powerhouse rhythm section—bassist Simon Grove and drummer Chris Allison—to create something truly magical. The album also features mind-melting guest spots from Polish guitar icon Jakub Zytecki and experimental harpist Emily Hopkins. It is an ambitious, beautiful sonic journey that demands your full attention from the very first note.But the masterclass doesn't stop in the studio. Plini is about to take this new material on the road for the massive An Unnameable Desire Australia and New Zealand Tour this August. This isn't just your standard run-of-the-mill club shows. Plini is promising his biggest, most immersive live production to date, complete with an incredible international and local lineup. Joining him on this epic trek are UK math-rock heavyweights Delta Sleep, Melbourne progressive newcomers Nightdive, and the phenomenal solo project Cenobia. It is a dream bill for anyone who loves their riffs complex and their melodies massive.The tour kicks off on August 6 at Brisbane's Princess Theatre, before tearing through Sydney's Liberty Hall, Melbourne's Northcote Theatre, Adelaide's Lion Arts Factory, and Magnet House in Perth. Today, we are diving deep into the creative madness behind the new record, the pressure of evolving his sound, and what fans can expect from this monster live show. Grab a cold one, settle in, and check out our full chat with the man himself, Plini!"I will be playing a lot of the new album and a lot of the older stuff that people seem to love," he revealed. "It's going to be really fun. We just did it in Europe for about four or five weeks, and the new stuff was especially fun to play."We ask Plini how different it is playing to audiences overseas compared to those in Australia."It depends on the place," he measured. "I think in general, everywhere they get into it as much, but their way of showing it can be different. The music I make… some of it is energetic, but it's not always so there will be a lot of people just standing and watching, and they could be having an amazing time, but it's not necessarily the same feedback as seeing a circle pit (laughs) or people moshing."In the full interview, Plini talks more about the tour and what we can expect, overseas crowds and how they relate to his music, connecting with fans on different levels, his new album and what to expect, plus more.Tickets https://www.plini.co/anztourBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Ali WilliamsThere are few bands in Australia who can announce they are taking a string quartet on tour and not have the nation immediately clutching its pearls in fear of acoustic violations. You Am I, thankfully, are not most bands. When HEAVY's Ali Williams caught up with bassist Andy Kent, the news was as unexpected as it was oddly perfect: You Am I are heading into theatre territory with a string quartet in tow, giving selected songs from across their catalogue a more considered, cinematic, and potentially spine-tingling treatment. And no, before anyone starts picturing a heritage rock band gently apologising for distortion, Andy was quick to make it clear this is not about turning You Am I into something polite, sleepy, or suspiciously beige.Check out the full interview for more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

Interview by Angela CroudaceGerman power metal veterans StormHammer are embracing a heavier, more aggressive direction on their upcoming album Wrath of the Hammer, due for release on July 17, while still staying true to their melodic foundations.Bassist Horst Tessmann revealed the album marks a deliberate shift back towards the sound of Welcome to the End after the more melodic approach of Seven Seals. Following years of lineup changes and delays, he said the band is finally where they want to be creatively."The title track represents the new album and the style of the band quite well," Horst explained, describing it as the perfect introduction to StormHammer's evolved sound.Rather than drawing from any single influence, Horst credited guitarists Phil and Christos for naturally blending classic heavy metal, thrash, progressive and punk elements into the songwriting. He also praised producer Alexander Krull, whose experience as a vocalist helped push singer Manuel into delivering more emotionally charged performances.Although Australian fans may have to wait for a live appearance due to touring costs, Horst said StormHammer hopes strong support for Wrath of the Hammer could eventually make it happen, but the band are already looking ahead, with work on their next album underway and a planned release targeted for autumn 2027.Check out the full interview for more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.