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Mind The Business: Small Business Success Stories


1 Understanding Taxes as a Newly Formed Small Business - Part 2 of the Small Business Starter Kit 28:24
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In our second installment of the Small Business Starter Kit series - we’re tackling a topic that’s sometimes tricky, sometimes confusing, but ever-present: taxes. Hosts Austin and Jannese have an insightful conversation with entrepreneur Isabella Rosal who started 7th Sky Ventures , an exporter and distributor of craft spirits, beer, and wine. Having lived and worked in two different countries and started a company in a heavily-regulated field, Isabella is no stranger to navigating the paperwork-laden and jargon-infused maze of properly understanding taxes for a newly formed small business. Join us as she shares her story and provides valuable insight into how to tackle your business’ taxes - so they don’t tackle you. Learn more about how QuickBooks can help you grow your business: QuickBooks.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…
Backstage With IN HEARTS WAKE At KNOTFEST BRISBANE 2025
Manage episode 469914736 series 2442388
Content provided by HEAVY Magazine. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by HEAVY Magazine or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
Interview by Jimmy Glinster and Kris Peters
Knotfest Australia 2025 swept through Brisbane and Melbourne last weekend, and has just one show remaining before returning home for another 12 months.
As expected, it was a bumper day filled with too many highlights to mention right now, but rest assured HEAVY made sure you get the story of the experience from the mouths of this behind the scenes making it all come true for fans around the country.
The bands.
Today we catch up with Jake Taylor from In Hearts Wake not long before their Brisbane set...
Tickets https://www.destroyalllines.com/tours/knotfest
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.
…
continue reading
Knotfest Australia 2025 swept through Brisbane and Melbourne last weekend, and has just one show remaining before returning home for another 12 months.
As expected, it was a bumper day filled with too many highlights to mention right now, but rest assured HEAVY made sure you get the story of the experience from the mouths of this behind the scenes making it all come true for fans around the country.
The bands.
Today we catch up with Jake Taylor from In Hearts Wake not long before their Brisbane set...
Tickets https://www.destroyalllines.com/tours/knotfest
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.
1003 episodes
Manage episode 469914736 series 2442388
Content provided by HEAVY Magazine. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by HEAVY Magazine or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
Interview by Jimmy Glinster and Kris Peters
Knotfest Australia 2025 swept through Brisbane and Melbourne last weekend, and has just one show remaining before returning home for another 12 months.
As expected, it was a bumper day filled with too many highlights to mention right now, but rest assured HEAVY made sure you get the story of the experience from the mouths of this behind the scenes making it all come true for fans around the country.
The bands.
Today we catch up with Jake Taylor from In Hearts Wake not long before their Brisbane set...
Tickets https://www.destroyalllines.com/tours/knotfest
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.
…
continue reading
Knotfest Australia 2025 swept through Brisbane and Melbourne last weekend, and has just one show remaining before returning home for another 12 months.
As expected, it was a bumper day filled with too many highlights to mention right now, but rest assured HEAVY made sure you get the story of the experience from the mouths of this behind the scenes making it all come true for fans around the country.
The bands.
Today we catch up with Jake Taylor from In Hearts Wake not long before their Brisbane set...
Tickets https://www.destroyalllines.com/tours/knotfest
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.
1003 episodes
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1 Balancing Aggression With TURANGA MORGAN-EDMONDS From ALIEN WEAPONRY 14:59
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Interview by Kris Peters Since releasing their acclaimed debut album Tū (2018), New Zealand metal warriors Alien Weaponry have been lauded for their kinetic presence and sound, as well as their vital blend of culturally profound lyricism in both English and te reo Māori, the indigenous language of New Zealand. Still in their teens when that album took the world by storm and with the sudden burden of expectation thrust upon their shoulders, Alien Weaponry bunkered down, surrounding themselves with family and away from the clutches of industry people potentially looking to exploit both their talent and youth. It proved a masterstroke, with the young band following up with Tangaroa (2021) and earned them the title of 'the future of heavy metal' by Metal Hammer and led to tours around the world with the likes of Guns N' Roses, Gojira, Slayer and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. But, they say, a band's third album is the most defining one of their career and that moment has come with the impending release of Te Rā (March 28). Described as their heaviest, most powerful and mature offering to date, Alien Weaponry feel like they have returned with a point to prove. HEAVY caught up with the newest member of the band, bass player Tūranga Morgan-Edmonds, to find out more. "I think we were definitely nervous going into the first single," he began when asked how the band are feeling about the album finally seeing the light of day. "I think the single probably had a lot more nerves surrounding it than the album itself. Because, you know, it's a new stage in the band's evolution and sound. And it's the first time I've been a part of the writing and recording process. And particularly because the first single was a song that I had written myself (laughs). So I was sort of like, Oh, God, what if people don't like it? That's my creative input that people don't like. But then of course the song came out and the response has been awesome. Now as we slowly trickle into the album release tomorrow there's been two more singles come out and people seem to love those as well." Talk turns to the music side of Te Rā and what sound they were trying to achieve. "We took a step back," he measured. "Obviously, the first album was such a force onto the scene and left a strong impression on a lot of people when that came out in 2018. And the second album didn't quite land where they had wanted to. And when we went to the third album, we were sort of like, OK, what is it that we want to achieve? Are we trying to create a new sound entirely? Are we trying to create something familiar? And so what we decided on was trying to actually find a balance between the highlights of both albums, even the second one. So the second one, what people liked, of course, was the sort of move towards a more technical approach, so maybe more complication in the riffs and the writing structures. And then also a lot of people quite liked the much more traditional sounding Māori vocals, not just singing in another language, but singing in the style of that language, if that makes sense." In the full interview, Turanga further introduced the band's upcoming third album, Te Ra, highlighting the blend of genres and the incorporation of Te Reo Māori to maintain cultural authenticity. He shared his excitement about collaborating with Randy Blythe from Lamb of God, who contributed vocals to a track after their connection on Instagram, emphasizing the influence of Lamb of God on their music. Tu reflected on the band's growth from newcomers to respected figures in the metal scene, acknowledging the challenges of touring post-pandemic. He expressed optimism for a more extensive touring schedule following the album's release, with management actively working on overseas plans, went back to when he joined Alien Weaponry and more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…

1 Finding Your Way With VLAD & KATIE From SLUNG 26:16
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Interview by Kris Peters English rock outfit Slung’s upcoming debut album is a collaborative combustion of its members’ experiences, circumstances and supreme musicianship. Their sonic universe - comprising the power of guitarist Ali Johnson’s incendiary riffs, vocalist Katie Oldham’s enviable dynamic and tonal range, bassist Vlad Matveikov’s undulating, yet grounding bass lines and drummer Ravi Martin’s expert rhythmic punctuation - is a veritable musical supernova. With influences covering most spectrums of the musical world - from Deftones and Baroness to Wednesday and MJ Lenderman to Queens of the Stone Age and even a sprinkling of Chappell Roan and Fleetwood Mac - Slung refuse to pigeon hole their music and as such have created a sound that is fresh, vibrant, and unmistakably their own. With a debut duo of singles at the tail end of 2024, Slung’s sounds piqued interest among discerning ears across the industry and internet. But true to form, the band elected to hit the road in order to gain experience and connect with the people before releasing even one song. It was a brave but ultimately rewarding take on old school ethos that has seen Slung build a sizeable fan base that will only increase after the release of their first album In Ways on May 2. HEAVY spoke with Vlad and Katie to find out more. "We're really stoked that these songs we've been cooking up for ages are sneaking out," Vlad enthused. "And it's amazing that people from all over the world are enjoying them. It kind of makes this otherwise horrendously expensive and absolutely ludicrous hobby that is making music - because you can't make a living out of it - a bit more justifiable (laughs)." We ask how they are feeling with the release date getting closer every day. "I think it's kind of a mystery what's going to happen in May," Katie answered honestly, "because the way that we've formed this band, or the way this band has become what it is now, it feels so backwards a lot of the time. It feels like we recorded an album before we ever played live once and before or I ever sung these songs in front of a single other person, we recorded them. So when we hear them back now, after having gigged quite a lot the last year, they sound so different to how we're used to playing them. But it's almost like a relic that you discover in the attic, and you're like, 'wow, what's this?' It's like a hidden gem. So there is this sense of nervousness, but mostly just excitement, because as I say, we're just so thrilled to have the chance to make this thing and release it. That alone is good enough for us. But what would be really nice is if there was a bunch of people who received it so warmly. Yeah, so nervous, but really excited." In the full interview, the discussion centred on Slung's debut album In Ways. Vlad and Katie shared insights into their unconventional journey of recording the album before performing live, which has generated intrigue among listeners. Both artists expressed a mix of excitement and nervousness about the album's reception, highlighting the positive global traction their singles have received. They emphasized their gratitude for the opportunity to share their music, despite the challenges faced in the music industry. Katie elaborated on the distinct sounds of their singles, such as Laughter, Collider, and Thinking About It, which showcase different facets of the band's identity. She noted that while some tracks maintain a sonic theme, others, particularly those influenced by country music, may surprise listeners. Vlad described the album as a journey with varied styles, referring to it as "bipolar" in its musical diversity. Both artists expressed confidence in the audience's ability to appreciate the album's cohesion, despite its eclectic influences and serious themes, which range from bullfighting to the sex worker industry. The creative process behind the album was also discussed, with Katie sharing her unique approach of reinterpreting lyrics from other songwriters to craft her narratives. She highlighted the emotional depth of the song Nothing Left, written during a challenging time in her life. Vlad recounted his initial meeting with guitarist Ali in Australia, which laid the foundation for their band and more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…

1 The Games People Play With CARL JACKSON From WOLSTEN BUTCHERS 16:58
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Interview by Kris Peters The last 12 months has seen punk rock outfit the Wolsten Butchers share the stage with some iconic punk rock acts like The Decline, and international punk stalwarts Guttermouth and Belvedere, but none of those experiences could have prepared them for the unexpected and massive success of the single Live Dead Die Fast which catapulted the name Wolsten Butchers into corners of the music world never before imagined. But now the fun really starts. Global success brings with it increased expectation and heightened scrutiny, so often the next track released can either make or break a band long term. So what do the Wolsten Butchers do? Release another absolute banger with Play These Games, further exploring the hard rock element of the band's musical psyche and keeping their foot flat to the floor in all relevant departments. HEAVY caught up with singer/guitarist Carl Jackson to find out about the new track and how the boys handled their sudden rise to prominence. "It's the first thing I think I've done in my life that potentially I could say is highly anticipated," Jackson laughed about the impending release of the new single. "It's a blessing and a curse when you have a song that does really well, you have to… well I suppose you don't have to follow that up, but you want to. You want the same response as the last one, potentially even more. So I'm excited. I love the song. I love the clip. I'm really excited about what it is, but also just really nervous about what people are going to think." In the full interview, the discussion focused on the Wolston Butchers' upcoming single release, Play These Games, with Carl expressing both excitement and anxiety about following up their previous hit, Live Dead Die Fast. He described the new track as heavier, complemented by a bright music video concept that contrasts its intensity. He also reflected on the band's evolving sound and their openness to creating radio-friendly pop-punk music. The conversation also highlighted the band's energetic live performances, upcoming shows including a gig with Bodyjar, and participation in the We Belong Festival with Frenzal Rhomb. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…

1 Variety Is The Spice Of Musical Life With BLINX & SHINBONE From HISS 11:16
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Interview by Kris Peters Busting out of the musical walls of Brisbane in late 2022, five childhood friends united to create an infectious cocktail of catchy, heavy riffs, hard-hitting lyrics and purposeful melodies. Familiar, yet unique, the HISS sound is as diverse as the appearance and influences of the individual band members themselves. Their frenetic hook-laden energy - think Alice In Chains meets Helmet with a dash of Sex Pistols and Slayer combined - will guarantee crossover appeal throughout the rock and metal community. The grungy garage-metal punks recently dropped the first track, Trace, from their upcoming debut album Enoz Latem and are preparing to launch it this Saturday, March 29 at Greaser Bar in Brisbane alongside Tawny Hawk and Dedway. Trace also features on a 7” vinyl release in hot pink (limited to 150 copies) that the band has pressed via their own imprint LFT Records to coincide with the album launch and other promotional activities. HEAVY caught up with Blinx Bonaccorso (vocals) and Shinbone Starr (guitar) to find out more. "It's been great so far," Starr enthused when asked about the early reception for Trace. "That one goes over well live, and it seems to be a good crossover track. It's got a great, heavy groove underpinning it and also some good melodies in there. Playing that one live is normally where we see a lot of people come from the outside of the room, gravitating, like 'what's going on here'." In the full interview, the discussion focused on the technical setup and promotional plans for Hiss's debut album, Enoz Latem and their first single, Trace. The band expressed excitement about their music's crossover appeal and their collaborative creative process, emphasizing their blend of grunge and punk influences. We also discussed plans for the album launch at Greaser Bar this Saturday (March 29), including exclusive merchandise, free entry, and a themed cocktail plus more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…

1 CHAS LEVI From JUSTICE FOR THE DAMNED Talks Resilience, New Music, And The Upcoming Australian Tour 29:29
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Interview by Angela Croudace In a recent interview, Chas Levi, the drummer of Justice For The Damned, shared his excitement about returning to the stage after a challenging period, as well as the band's highly anticipated new music and upcoming Australian tour. The band's journey has been anything but easy, but with their latest single, The Current, they have come out stronger and more determined than ever. Chas spoke candidly about the surreal feeling of being back with the band after battling through personal struggles. "It's just a total blur," he admits. "It's happened so fast, and I can barely believe it, but I'm stoked." The band's resilience is evident, and with new music released and tours lined up, Chas and his bandmates are more energized than ever. He also mentioned that getting back into the groove of performing has been an incredibly rewarding experience. "The shows so far have been insane," he says. "They feel so much better now, maybe it's just because I'm back, but it’s like nothing else." Looking ahead, Justice For The Damned is gearing up for their headline Australian tour this March, covering major cities as well as more regional areas. "It’s going to be wild, especially the regional tour," Chas reveals. "Some of these places are so off the map for us, but we want to bring the energy to every corner of Australia." For Chas, this tour is especially significant because it marks his return to the stage in his home country after a long absence. As for the music, the band's upcoming album promises to be an exciting blend of new sounds, with Chas describing the new material as more groovy and spacious compared to previous releases. The latest single, The Current, has already been well received by fans, and the band is eager to perform it live. Chas says the track has resonated with him on a personal level, reflecting both his struggles and triumphs. "It’s about endurance and resilience, things we’ve all gone through, especially in the last few years." Looking back at the band's journey, Chas is grateful for the opportunity to connect with fans across the world. He’s especially excited about the upcoming regional shows, which he sees as a way of returning to the roots of their fan base. "We’re just excited to be bringing our music to places we’ve never been before," he says. "It’s the most fun you can have, playing to passionate people who might not always get the big shows coming through." Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…

1 Good Music Lives Forever With PHIL CAMPBELL 11:33
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Interview by Kris Peters Phil Cambpell was, and always will be, primarily known for being one-third of the legendary metal outfit Motorhead. For more than 30 years Campbell stood side by side on the biggest stages in the world alongside his brother Lemmy, recording 16 albums and having a major role in Motorhead classics like Orgasmatron, Killed by Death, Going to Brazil, Eat the Rich, Stone Deaf in the USA, Rock 'n' Roll and more. While the music world at large mourned Lemmy's passing, those closest to him were left with a gaping chasm in their lives; a musical and personal void which would be impossible to replace. But Campbell was lucky in the respect he had his family to fall back on and not just emotionally. Within one year of Lemmy's passing, Campbell's three boys - Todd, Tyla and Dane - had rallied around their father, uniting to form their own band aptly named Phil Campbell & The Bastard Sons. Whether the band was started to fill the void or as a form of comfort or for any other reason in the Metal Gods playbook, they are still going strong almost ten years later and are about to make their maiden voyage as a band to Australia in September for a run of shows that promises to be one of the must-see live shows of 2025. Not only will The Bastard Sons be playing material from their three albums, but Campbell has also promised an equal portion of Motorhead tunes not seen or heard in this country since before 2015. But to make sure that wasn't just a vicious rumour, HEAVY tracked Phil down to make sure things were on track. Amongst the general chit-chat we asked Phil if he is comfortable playing Motorhead songs without Lemmy there with him, in particularly how it felt the first few times he performed after Lemmy left us. "It's never going to be Motorhead, obviously, without Lem," he sighed, "but we give it a good shot. It'll be the only chance for especially younger Australians to have heard some of the Motorhead stuff with a band member playing them. We get a lot of youngsters come to our shows anyway if we're playing Motörhead stuff or our own stuff. We get older Motörhead fans bringing their young children to the shows. Basically they're just turning them on to good live music because there's so much crap about these days with autotuned voices and all that. We're the real deal, which is the way it should be." We nod in agreement before asking if having his boys by his side made things easier. "I spent a lot of the boy's formative years away from them when I was so busy with Motörhead," he replied. "So it's great to be able to give something back, you know, and spend time with them and still go around the world in another kick-ass rock and roll band. You know, they deserve it. They're great players. The band is as tight as hell that we have now. So they deserve it. They deserve to tread the boards. It's a lot of fun, yeah. I enjoy it." In the full interview, Phil spoke more about what we can expect from the show and coming up with a list of Motorhead songs to appease the masses. He highlighted the difficulties in choosing songs from the vast Motörhead repertoire and expressed excitement about performing with his sons. He also underscored the significance of creativity in the songwriting for Phil Campbell & The Bastard Sons, encouraging experimentation without rigid constraints. Phil spoke about his love of rock n roll and how forming The Bastards came at the perfect time for him, introduced us to the new (ish) singer Joel Peters and explained how he fits in with plans moving forward, hinted at new music and more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…

1 Stacking Up The Bodies With JACOB & ETHAN From THORNHILL 16:20
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Interview by Kris Peters After earning themselves an ARIA nomination with 2022's album Heroine, Melbourne metal titans Thornhill have pulled out all stops to ensure its successor further explores the sonic parameters in which their music falls. Bodies finds Thornhill elevating to spectacular new heights, offering an unbridled explosion of raw vulnerability fused with some of the band's heaviest moments to date. While Heroine revelled in lush textures and bold, curated aesthetics, Bodies finds Thornhill opening the floodgates to spontaneity. Balancing intensity with boundless creative freedom and ingenuity, album number three for Thornhill is not only a definitive snapshot of a band in full flight just shy of a decade into their staggering career; it's also a celebration of authenticity and gripping dynamism from one of Australia's most engaging heavy acts. HEAVY caught up with vocalist Jacob Charlton and guitarist Ethan McCann to talk more. "I think the first thing that we wanted to sit down to after Heroine was we wanted a lot more energy and a lot more pace in the music," Ethan explained. "We found that when we took Heroine to our live show it felt like it was dragging at times. Because we started playing heavy music when we were teenagers we kind of missed that energy, and seing that reaction in real time." We ask how they actually achieved that, to which Ethan replied, "I think just a lot more focus on rhythm, and drumbeat. Jacob was listening to a lot more pop and R&B music around this time, so I think there was a lot more pace with his vocal patterns, as opposed to long, stretched out chords and crooning vocals from the last album." In the full interview we speak to Jacob and Ethan more about the musicality on Bodies, the pressures of following an ARIA nominated album, how it contains the heaviest moments in Thornhill's musical history, the singles released and how they represent the album as a whole, how Bodies represents Thornhill in 2025, this weekends Album Listening shows and more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…

1 A Last Farewell With KIP WINGER From WINGER 15:57
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Interview by Kris Peters American hard rock outfit Winger have been a mainstay in the global music scene for almost 40 years, with their triple-platinum, self-titled debut album spawning hits like Seventeen, Headed for a Heartbreak, and Madalaine. Their sophomore album, In the Heart of the Young, solidified Winger's place in rock history, delivering anthems such as Miles Away and Can’t Get Enuff, propelling the band into a select group of artists who have become bigger than the industry that created them. Over the years, Winger has gained significant critical acclaim, with Grammy nominations and widespread recognition for their intricate compositions and electrifying stage presence. Each member of the band has built an impressive resume beyond the project, with Reb Beach becoming a longtime guitarist for Whitesnake, Rod Morgenstein playing with the Dixie Dregs, Paul Taylor collaborating with Alice Cooper, John Roth playing with Giant and Starship, and frontman Kip Winger enjoying a successful solo career and a critically acclaimed career as an orchestral composer which has earned him a Grammy nomination. But for all of Winger's achievements and tales from over the years, there is one mountain left to climb. One world left to conquer. And that world is here. Australia. It's hard to fathom that the original incarnation of Winger has never toured this country, with previous visits being either as Kip performing solo or without the original band lineup. But in honour of their Australian fans and perhaps as a means of ticking off remaining bucket list points, Winger are finally headed this way - with original members - for a run of shows this April to deliver the ultimate send-off, celebrating decades of iconic music in a career spanning musical spectacle. HEAVY had the pleasure of spending time with Kip ahead of the tour, at one stage asking him what it will mean for him to round out his musical career to date with the upcoming shows. "The band has got a huge legacy, and it's rare that a band like us would be all original members still," he replied. "It's rare, and we all still really enjoy playing with each other on stage, so it's great. When we played Australia in 2014 it was just spectacular. I mean, the fans are awesome, and I've always wanted to come back with the band. We're very excited about coming, and we've got all the original members, including John Roth. So it's actually going to be better than it would have been before because I don't think John was able to come that time." Another topic we broached was the period in the mid-1990s that saw Winger part ways, largely due to the explosion of grunge, and ask if that movement was as bad for rock music as history has led us to believe. "Yeah, it was over like that," Kip sighed. "It was over overnight. When Smells Like Teen Spirit came out MTV dropped all the 80s bands, and MTV was really the big promotion tool. Then you had Beavis and Butthead and all that stuff, which didn't help at all. They were lifting all the grunge bands up and talking trash about all the bands like us, so it was over in a second. It was like, you're playing an arena, and then you're playing a club within a six-month period." In the full interview, Kip discussed Winger's upcoming tour in Japan and Australia with the original line up, emphasizing its significance as a rare opportunity for fans to see the band perform together in their purest form. He highlighted his transition to a classical music career, which adds to the tour's importance, and reflected on the band's legacy and positive experiences from their previous Australian tour in 2014. Kip recounted the band's formation during the peak of rock music in the late 1980s, their rise to fame, and the subsequent decline due to the grunge movement, which led to their disbandment in 1994. He noted his continued musical pursuits through solo projects and the resurgence of interest in Winger's music, keeping the spirit of rock alive. Kip also shared his artistic evolution towards orchestral music, mentioning his classical album and current projects with the Nashville Symphony and more. Australian tour tickets https://www.silverbacktouring.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…

1 BRAD ROBERTS Of CRASH TEST DUMMIES Talks Of Their Return To Australia And Band Legacy 13:49
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Words by Angela Croudace After decades since their last show in Australia, Brad Roberts of Crash Test Dummies is excited to return. The Canadian band’s first Australian tour, back in the early 90s, was met with poor attendance as they were relatively unknown at the time. “When we played our first tour in Australia, we were promoting our very first record, Ghosts That Haunt Me. We had a hit in Canada, but hardly anyone knew us there,” Brad recalls. However, the situation has drastically changed, and this time, with a larger fan base, the band is eager for a more successful reception. Reflecting on the impact of God Shuffled His Feet, the album that defined the band’s career, Brad shares his pride. “It means a lot to me that God Shuffled His Feet holds such a special place in people's hearts after 30 years,” he says. The album, featuring iconic tracks like Superman's Song, still resonates with fans around the world. The band's success skyrocketed early on, with invitations to perform on Saturday Night Live and The David Letterman Show. Despite the early fame, Brad’s musical journey didn’t begin until after his university years at the University of Winnipeg. “I didn’t spend much time in music until after graduation. Success on the second record was overwhelming,” he admits. The Crash Test Dummies’ rise to fame is a testament to their unique sound and Brad’s distinct low voice, which became an unexpected asset. The reunion of the original line up in 2017 was a poignant moment for Brad and the band, marking a new chapter in their journey. “We decided we wanted to keep going because we had such a good time,” he reflects. As the band gears up for their upcoming tour, Brad’s passion for music remains strong. “I still love touring and playing,” he says. And with the ongoing evolution of music, Brad continues to study classical composition, including the works of Bach, proving that music is a lifelong constant. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…

1 EPICA's 'Aspiral': A Journey Of Art, Inspiration, And Growth 22:27
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Interview by Angela Croudace In an interview with Simone Simons, lead vocalist of the symphonic metal band Epica, we dive into the band’s upcoming album Aspiral—a powerful reflection of their growth, both musically and personally. Simone describes Aspiral as a fresh start, where the band’s continuous evolution is highlighted through their music and lyrics. The title of the album was inspired by a Stanislaw Szukalski bronze sculpture, a piece of art that left a profound impact on the band after a visit in 2022. Simone explains that the album’s theme of rebirth, renewal, and self-discovery resonates deeply with the band members, as they navigate their individual struggles and experiences. The synergy between art and music is a key theme, with Szukalski’s sculpture influencing not just the visuals but the emotional core of the album. The band embraced a unique writing process through isolated writing camps, allowing them to fully immerse in creating without distractions. Simone shared how the intimacy and collaboration during these camps fostered a stronger bond between the band members, helping them achieve creative heights while crafting songs with emotional depth. Simone also reflected on the emotional power of Epica’s music, recalling poignant fan inter Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…

1 Unleashing The Animal With ROK RUPKIN From WITHIN DESTRUCTION 14:10
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Interview by Kris Peters Within Destruction, Slovenia’s most awesomely audacious, genre-defying metal pioneers, have officially announced their next chapter with the reveal of their upcoming album Animetal set for release on April 11, 2025, via Sumerian Records. To mark the news, the band has dropped their electrifying new single Cybergirl, accompanied by an official music video that plunges listeners into a dystopian world where the lines of reality are blurred. Packed with relentless riffs, soaring melodies, and their signature, anime-inspired electronic elements, Cybergirl epitomises Within Destruction’s ability to innovate and push boundaries while staying rooted in the chaos of modern metal. In more good news, the Slovenian futurists have also announced their return to Australia on the eve of Animetal. Having truly transcended their deathcore origins, the band’s once relentlessly brutal sound has flourished into a cyberized, anime-inspired, and unpredictable concoction. Fans of sheer guttural force fear not, however - as fellow Europeans Distant will be tagging along to bring their downtempo slams to Australia for the first time ever. With Melbourne’s Gravemind rounding out the bill, this is a psychotic trio of modern metal sure to dazzle and pulverise. HEAVY caught up with Within Destruction's frontman Rok Rupkin recently to discuss the album and tour. "If you listen to our other records and then listen to Animetal there is quite a bit of sound difference," he measured when asked to describe the new album musically. "The reason why that is the case is because we have decided to stray our own path to set ourselves away from the industry. Not only through the sound but also visually through art, through music videos and band members as well. So any time someone would listen to our song or see our album, they would immediately say I know this is Within Destruction. We wanted to build our own brand, in a way." In the full interview, Rok talks more about Animetal and what Within Destruction were going for musically, how their sound has changed since their previous release, the anime aspect to the album and how they fit in together, the early days of the band and where they fit in, musical growth and how much Within Destruction have left in them, their upcoming shows in Australia and more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…

1 AI For Heavy Metal Vocalists Has Arrived With HXVOC - A Vocalist's Perspective With SEANN NICOLS 29:14
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Interview by Kris Peters With the modern world embracing technology like never before, it was only a matter of time before the metal scene and metal music became caught up in its web. Don't get me wrong, technology and the wonders of modern advancement have long been a part of the music industry - everywhere from live sound to studio tricks to programmed drums - but it is the concept of AI that has been more divisive and controversial than anything else. But it has always been inevitable. Like it or loathe it, AI is not only here, it is also integrating into more of life and music than some of us care to admit. Until now, heavy metal has been unchartered territory for anything AI-generated. Musically there have been many advancements but when it came time to replicating hard rock/metal vocals the challenge seemed to always be insurmountable. But not any more. In conjunction with AI vocal synthesis company Eclipsed Sounds, Seann Nicols (Westfield Massacre, Adler's Appetite, Quiet Riot) has been working on something new and exciting called HXVOC, the first-ever AI rock/metal vocalist for Synthesizer V Studio 2. This is an entirely new technology that allows producers to generate fully realistic rock and metal vocals, complete with rasp, grit, and even full-on screams. HXVOC is a first-of-its-kind AI vocal instrument that gives musicians and producers unprecedented access to a professional rock/metal vocalist without needing a real singer. It’s powered by Synthesizer V Studio 2, the most advanced vocal synthesis engine available today. The key breakthrough is that HXVOC can accurately perform aggressive rock and metal vocal techniques, including rasp, grit, belting, growls, and screams—which have never been done at this level in a vocal synth before. Rather than replacing singers, HXVOC is an instrument for musicians - just like drum machines and amp sims. It empowers producers, bands, and solo artists by letting them create fully produced songs with high-quality rock vocals. This is a major first for the vocal synthesis world, and it’s already making waves. Two official showcase videos have been released, original songs demonstrating HXVOC’s capabilities in both a Sleep Token - style track and a modern rock song created specifically to highlight its vocal modes. This technology is about to change music production in a big way, especially for rock and metal. Now, any producer in the world can access a professional-quality rock vocal without needing to record a singer. With AI-powered vocals becoming more advanced, this could be a turning point for the industry. A known and respected hard rock/metal vocalist, Nicols has approached things from the perspective of a working musician and is adamant HXVOC will only benefit the music industry, not destroy it. HEAVY sat down with him for a chat to find out more about HXVOC and ask a few questions that we think may pose a concern. "It's got a lot of moving parts," he began. "And I'm new to the space, so I'm by no means an expert. But I'll give you the best to my knowledge. Basically, AI vocal synths have existed for a long time. Apparently this has been like 25 years in the making. I guess it started with a thing called Vocaloid, which is a company that Yamaha founded. And it started out as a Japanese-based company, and they did like a lot of anime, and it went into pop and electronic. And that's mainly where the AI voices have found most of their traction. But to get a voice that worked for rock was really hard and challenging. Because they couldn't get the grit, they couldn't get the… they couldn't get the aggression to come out of the voice. It just sounded very robotic, and they could produce clean tones, but they couldn't produce that like guttural, like raw that you need for rock, right? So basically this is the first time that we've had those intense techniques captured and reproduced with an AI. And it took us about, well, two years in development. And it was actually just a meeting of technology and the engineering behind it and the team and the training and special techniques that all had to go into capturing and being able to create this voice that people can get like a real rock metal vocalist right out of the computer with the AI." We hit him with the question many are wanting to know: Is HXVOC designed to actually replace a vocalist in a band? "Not at all," he stressed. "No. It's an instrument. It's not a replacement. And I realize that's a concern, but, you know, I was toying around with this technology for a long time. I mean, it started with drums, and then it turned out you could do your drums and program your bass, and then they created guitars and synthesizers, and there's orchestral libraries and everything. And this is just an extension of that, but now for the human voice. And now when we listen to demos that are made by musicians on their computers, the drums sound pretty killer. And it's because of guys like Stephen Slate that made the really complicated process of recording drums in a big studio, and you need all these microphones and these crazy consoles and engineers. I mean, it's super complicated to get a good drum sound, but he just made it so it was really easy so you could just load it up on your computer put your beats in and voila it's like sounds like it was recorded in a million dollar studio and uh that's what we've done essentially with a rock voice now." In the full interview, we engaged in a detailed discussion about the evolving role of technology in the music industry, particularly focusing on Seann's collaboration with Eclipse Sounds and the introduction of their AI vocal instrument, HXVOC. Seann emphasized the potential of AI vocal technology to enhance songwriting and studio work, viewing it as a valuable tool rather than a threat to jobs in the industry. Seann elaborated on the capabilities of HXVOC, highlighting its ability to capture the nuances of rock and metal vocal techniques, which have historically been challenging to record. He reassured that the software is intended as an instrument to empower musicians rather than replace live vocalists. We addressed some of the concerns that invariably come with new innovations, his role in HXVOC, how it will benefit the heavy metal industry and plenty more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…

1 Harnessing The Rage With TOM KENNEDY From BARE BONES 21:20
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Interview by Kris Peters Sydney hard rock/metal outfit Bare Bones are the gift that keep on giving musically. Over more than a decade in the Australian music scene, the band have never shied away from their beliefs, maintaining a DIY approach to life and music that has seen them win the respect of their peers as well as the adulation of a quickly growing fan base that pretty much doubles every time Bare Bones play at a music festival or to people that might not have heard of them before. Ferociously uncompromising on stage, Bare Bones have carried that intent into the studio with their latest EP, Ceremonial Rage (out now). Proudly - and rightfully - anointed as the band's heaviest, most aggressive slab of music to date, the five-track Ceremonial Rage sees Bare Bones more embracing their earlier and heavier musical influences, experimenting with the past just enough to put a fresh, exciting spin on their future. HEAVY caught up with vocalist Tom Kennedy this morning to chat about the EP and Bare Bones' special EP launch at Chuck Trailers in Sydney tonight. Naturally, we lead with the assessment that this is the heaviest material yet released by the band. "100%, yeah," Kennedy replied without hesitation. "I think it's kind of a natural progression from where we've been going. Our music seems to get heavier each time. We put out our first full-length album, Bad Habits, and then when we went and did our second full-length, Rival Minds, people were like, this is definitely heavier and darker. And then it's just kind of been going more and more that way ever since. So kind of a natural progression. This is where we've ended up." Which leads to us asking Kennedy if the heavier direction was something they spoke about as a band during the creative process. "You know what man, we've been around for like 12-13 years at this point and this EP is the first time we've ever had that conversation," he replied. "It's always kind of been like this unconscious vibe thing going into writing. It's just like, well, let's just do what we always do and get together and come up with some riffs and stuff. But this time before we started, we had that chat like, what direction do we want to take this? And for us, it's getting back to the stuff that we grew up on. Being in a band with unique, distinct personalities, you all have pretty different tastes when it comes to music and art and all that kind of stuff. But I guess the one thing that we've always loved and agreed on is bands like Slipknot, Korn and Limp Bizkit. And so we just kind of thought, let's lean into that. Let's try and give a modern take on that kind of thing and put our spin on it." In the full interview, we explored the creative journey behind each track, with Tom explaining that Cobra Clutch evolved from an industrial metal demo to a dynamic song featuring rapping, with Vertebreaker showcasing a catchy chorus and heavy breakdown. The rapid writing process for Tiger Driver was influenced by hip-hop, while Burning Hammer addresses serious global issues. Tom expressed satisfaction with the EP's direction and the reinvigoration of their passion for music, hinting at future explorations. He also provided an overview of the Chuck Trailers venue in Sydney, emphasizing the importance of free entry for fans to their EP launch on March 20 and the addition of several bands to the opening gig line up, reflecting on the community aspect of live music and the band's commitment to staying active in the scene. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…

1 DANI FILTH Talks New Album, Religion, And Future Collaborations 18:29
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Interview by Angela Croudace Cradle of Filth’s frontman, Dani Filth, sat down with HEAVY to discuss the band’s 14th studio album, The Screaming of the Valkyries, their evolution over the years, and the provocative themes they've explored in their music. Dani shared that the new album brings a modern sound while still nodding to Cradle of Filth’s roots, with a blend of fresh ideas and older influences. "It's a modern sound record, one step forward, but it also has a passing nod back to previous incarnations," he explained. This new direction is, in part, thanks to new members Donnie and Zoe, and the band's increased playtime during the pandemic, which helped refine their sound. Although the album doesn’t have a central concept, Dani describes it as a celebration of escapism, rituals, and vampirism. He elaborated on the inspiration behind the album’s title, revealing that it stems from the final track, When Misery Was a Stranger. The title The Screaming of the Valkyries was inspired by the impending doom of the Doomsday Clock, likening the sound of Valkyries’ screams during Ragnarok to the existential realisation of impending disaster. On the subject of religion, Dani was candid about his views, stating that while he respects others’ beliefs, he finds the notion of religion’s validity in the modern age absurd. “I think time has just worn out the message,” he said, pointing to the age of science and the contradictions he sees within religious teachings. However, he emphasised that it’s the belief itself, not the dogma, that holds value. Over the years, the band’s dynamic has evolved significantly, with Dani noting that the band and crew have become a tight-knit family. He shared a personal moment, reflecting on a recent wedding within the band, symbolising the strong bond they now share. The influence of the band's longevity and experience shows through in the new album, which recalls elements of their older works. When asked about his favourite track from the new album, Dani pointed to Ex Sanguine Draculae, a song that takes him back to the band’s earlier work in the ‘90s. “It just reminds me of the era that we did the Dusk and Her Embrace record,” he said. He also revealed the band’s collaboration with renowned producer Scott Atkins, praising his approach to refining the band’s sound and ensuring the production was sharp and true to their vision. Dani also shared that, if given the chance, he'd love to collaborate with Lana Del Rey, citing her gothic sensibilities and haunting voice as a perfect fit for Cradle of Filth's style. Fans of both artists may just get lucky one day. As for the fan experience, Dani recalled a bizarre moment in Australia when a fan gave the band a prosthetic leg as a gift, only for it to later be tossed onto the stage during a performance. "I don’t know whether it was a gift or whether we should have given it back," he mused, "We did give it back though" he confirmed. With The Screaming of the Valkyries out this week, Cradle of Filth continues to push boundaries while honoring their legacy in the metal world. Fans can expect a thrilling mix of old and new, with Dani and his bandmates at the forefront, creating music that’s as unpredictable and darkly captivating as ever. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…

1 LETLIVE. Return To Australia: A Spiritual Reunion And Evolution Of Sound 12:46
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Interview by Angela Croudace Letlive’s reunion isn’t just a return to the stage—it’s an emotional and spiritual journey for the band. After a seven-year break, the group, which originally formed in 2002, has reconnected, sharing stories of their lives and realising they were all in similar places. This realisation, combined with their shared love for music and each other, sparked the decision to hit the road again. Initially, they planned a few shows, but the idea grew into a full tour that includes Australia this September. Jason Aalon Butler, the band’s frontman and son of soul artist Aalon Butler, explains that their decision to reunite wasn’t merely about nostalgia—it was a deeper spiritual alignment. The members of Letlive have evolved individually, and as a result, their relationships have become stronger. “We understand ourselves much better than when we were younger,” Jason reflects, noting how life experiences have brought them closer. The band's line up now includes new faces, like Sage Weber on drums and Skyler Accord on bass. “They just fit again because they get it,” Jason says. Their talent and energy bring something fresh to the band, creating a perfect synergy with the original members. Letlive’s sound has also evolved over the years, expanding from the punk roots of their early albums like Fake History to incorporate diverse influences, from jazz fusion to hip-hop. Jason explains that the band's goal has always been to expand their reach while remaining authentic to themselves. “We try to be as honest as we can with the art we create,” he says. After playing massive festivals like Warped Tour and Louder Than Life, Letlive is excited to return to the stage with their renewed energy. The band's live shows have always resonated deeply with fans, largely due to their raw transparency and passion. Jason emphasises, “We’re just fans of the art, and we perform as fans first.” As the band prepares to return to Australia, Jason recalls his first trip there as a pivotal moment in his career. “It felt like I had arrived,” he says. For Letlive, this September marks not jus Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…
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HEAVY Music Interviews

1 Destiny Strikes With PAUL LEWIS From HIDDEN INTENT 20:41
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Interview by Kris Peters Adelaide thrash metal outfit Hidden Intent have never tried to hide their influences. In fact, they have always worn them more as a badge of honour, an unmistakable pointer to their roots past, present and future. Playing a brand of 80s-throwback thrash metal - a form of music that wholly embraces its American and European roots in the Bay Area, Scandinavian and Teutonic thrash scenes - Hidden Intent have sprinkled just enough Australian flavour into the mix to cast very much their own DNA through a genre of music that is notoriously known for shunning any deviation from the normal. After years of toiling on the live circuit here in Australia, the rest of the world has finally succumbed to the brutality of Hidden Intent, earning the band a spot at Wacken Open Air on top of countless shows on foreign soil. And if you think their last album Dead End Destiny was the one that firmly swept the door ajar, then wait until you see what their next offering, Terrorform, will deliver when released on Friday, March 21. HEAVY caught up with drummer Paul Lewis to talk more. "I think every album's a little bit different overall," he measured. "And this one's certainly different from the previous ones. I think there was a lot of anger on this album. It's certainly a darker one for us, and it comes through with the tunes. The process was a little bit different overall, but we've been flat out, and it's been a mad rush to get it done. We're a band that needs deadlines, so we kind of booked everything in. It's like 'you have to be done by this time or else it's not going to make it'. So we've just got over that mad rush, and now we're doing the launch on Friday." "It's definitely our most broad album we've ever done," he continued. "And, like I said, there's a lot of anger on this album. It's faster. It's heavier, but it's also lighter as well. There's a couple of acoustic things in there, which we have done a little bit of before, but not, I guess, to this extent. So on every album, we like to sort of widen our lane a little bit more. We're always going to be a thrash band. We're never going to veer away from that. It seems like every album, we like to just push that boundary just a little bit more to grow and to keep our fans guessing as well. Which is pretty hard." In the full interview, Paul explained that the writing process was shaped by both positive and negative experiences, including personal losses within the band. He went into more detail about the title track, Terrorform, which features a guest appearance from Guillermo Izquierdo, the temptations of rehashing Dead End Destiny because they know it worked, the play on words that makes up the album title, this weekend's double album launch with Headbore and more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…
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HEAVY Music Interviews

1 The Machinations Of Music With SEBASTIEN GRAINGER From DEATH FROM ABOVE 1979 19:06
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Interview by Kris Peters Known for their raw and stripped-back sound, Death From Above 1979 have been described as everything from noise punk to dance punk, embodying a DIY ethos that Rolling Stone described as “noisy hardcore, gritty synths, and earnest screams.” The duo’s relentless beats, searing guitars, and ferocious energy practically summon you to the dance floor. Death From Above 1979 return to Australia for a run of shows this April, marking the first time the band have visited this country in almost a decade and a half, first coming in 2005 and then again in 2011 for Parklife. Don’t miss your chance to experience the explosive energy and sheer power of Death From Above 1979 live on their 20th Anniversary tour for their debut album You’re a Woman, I’m a Machine. It promises to be an unforgettable salute to a record that still pulses with the same intensity as it did when it first detonated in 2004. You’re a Woman, I’m a Machine contained edge-of-your-seat classics including Romantic Rights, Blood On Our Hands, Black History Month and Little Girls, but let’s face it, every track is killer. A perfect, 10 out of 10 review from back in the day via Drowned In Sound, stated "It’s not just music you’re hearing - sweat, blood, spunk and beer are all audible, splattering these 11 tracks like a Pollock…. It’s so simple, just two dudes making a right ol’ racket, done with such spirit and delivered with such a purity - magnificently filthy.” HEAVY spoke with drummer/vocals Sebastien Grainger ahead of the tour to get the rundown, at one point asking what had changed with the band since they were here last 14 years ago. "We had just started playing again after being broken up for five years or so," he recalled. "So that was like a reunion tour for us. And we didn't have a new record, we only had that first record - and we didn't make a new record until 2014. So in that time, in those 14 years, that's basically the… It's this whole second phase of the band, you know, the whole second period of the band was between 2011 and now. So, yeah, I mean, we made three LPs and toured around the world and, you know, had families and more children and all kinds of stuff." In the full interview, Sebastien discussed the band's upcoming tour in Australia, emphasizing the importance of celebrating the 20th anniversary of their debut album You're a Woman, I'm a Machine. He reflected on the band's evolution, including the release of three additional LPs, and the challenges of adapting their music for live performances, highlighting the unique energy generated through audience interaction rather than a traditional frontman approach. The conversation included insights into the album title's origin, inspired by a misheard phrase from his girlfriend. We also ran through the creative aspect of writing and recording You're A Woman, I'm a Machine free from expectation or pressures and how it set Death From Above 1979 on the path to which they find themselves today and more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…
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HEAVY Music Interviews

1 Musical Pathways With SARAH McLEOD From THE SUPERJESUS 18:50
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Interview by Kris Peters The Superjesus have been a mainstay on the Australian rock scene for more than three decades. Their infectious music coupled with arguably one of the best live shows in the country have endeared the band to generations of music lovers since their inception in the late 1990s, with the band's debut album Sumo in 1998 spawning fan favourites such as Down Again, Saturation and Now and Then. The follow-up, Jet Age, magnified the growing popularity of The Superjesus, delivering the smash hit Gravity as well as Secret Agent Man before Rock Music rounded out the trifecta in 2003. A brief hiatus from the mid 2000s gave the band members time to reflect on their personal music ambitions before deciding the world needed more of their music in 2013. This produced an EP, Love and Violence (2016), as well as a double live album but despite The Superjesus quickly reclaiming their status amongst Australia's elite touring band's, no new music has been forthcoming. That changes this Friday, March 21, when The Superjesus (self-titled) comes out, fuelled by the success of six previous singles Money (We’re Only In It For Love), Lights Out, We Won’t Let Go Until It’s Over, Something Good, a cover of Generation X’s Dancing With Myself and beautiful ballad Diamonds. This is the new Superjesus, a more soulful, engaging version of the band we know and love where song writing is king. HEAVY caught up with frontwoman Sarah McLeod to find out more. We bring up a quote she made to HEAVY in October last year where she proclaimed "I shit you not, but it's the best stuff we've ever written", and ask if she still feels that way after the album has had more time to digest. A smile swept across her face before replying with a simple "yeah". "I guess maybe that's why I love it so much," she continued, "because I'm so connected to it. And I just feel like we've got better. I feel like we did a great job in the 90s, and we were happy with those records, but we had 10 years off, and we all went and did different music. We learnt stuff. Ruddy (Stuart, bass) was in all these different bands, and he came back with a whole library of new influences and so did I. And we're like, okay, we're the same people, but we're not really because we've learnt all this stuff. So why don't we bring in the cool shit that we've learned and make something different, but paying homage to who we were. And that's where we're at. And I think it's been really good for us. And I love it." In the full interview, Sarah expressed her excitement about the album, which has seen the release of six singles over the past 18 months. She highlighted her favourite track, Gangbusters, and explained the strategic decision to hold back some songs to build anticipation. She emphasized that while there is no external pressure, she feels a personal drive to deliver quality music, reflecting the band's evolution and commitment to their craft. Sarah shared insights into her songwriting process, noting a shift towards creating cohesive narratives rather than standalone lyrics. She discussed the challenges of balancing her solo work with that of The Superjesus, particularly in terms of lyrical content and audience resonance. The conversation also touched on the creative process, where Sarah likened songwriting to an alchemical journey that requires refinement to achieve simplicity. She said she believes that effective songs often stem from straightforward lyrics that engage audiences, a principle she strives to uphold in her work. We discussed the band's upcoming tour and what to expect musically, as well as the opportunity for local band's to open in each city and more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…
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HEAVY Music Interviews

1 BARRY From JOYCE MANOR Talks Australian Tour With THE WONDER YEARS And More 16:55
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Interview by Angela Croudace Barry Johnson, vocalist and guitarist from Joyce Manor, sat down with HEAVY for a conversation about the band's upcoming Australian tour with The Wonder Years, their creative process, and life on the road. The Californian punk rockers are gearing up for a return to Australia, a place they’ve always enjoyed performing and connecting with passionate fans. With a long-standing relationship with the country, Barry shared his excitement about the tour and reflected on the band's journey. When asked what he was most excited about for this round of shows, Barry’s enthusiasm was evident. "I'm excited to be back in Australia. It’s been a while, and I love it there. The crowds are great, and the people are really easy to talk to," he said. He also highlighted the similarities between California and Australia, particularly the laid-back vibe that makes him feel at home. "Being from California, I feel like Australia is a sweet spot. It's got the surfer culture, but the humour aligns with English humour, which is something I can really relate to." Barry’s memories of past shows in Australia are fond ones, though he admitted that some moments tend to blur together. However, one standout memory remains a show at The Gasometer in Melbourne, which he described as one of the best they’ve ever played. "That show was definitely one of my favourites. It was such an amazing night, and it’s always stuck with me," he shared. Even after all these years, that performance holds a special place for Barry, ranking among the top shows of his career. The conversation then shifted to the creative side of Joyce Manor. Barry reflected on the making of Last You Heard of Me, from their 2016 album Cody, a track that went through numerous revisions before it came together. "It was one of those songs that we worked on for so long, making small adjustments until it finally clicked," Barry explained. The process was challenging, but the outcome was something the band is incredibly proud of. "It’s hard to imagine it any other way now. All the hard work paid off, and I’m really proud of how it turned out," he added. In terms of songwriting, Joyce Manor’s process has evolved over the years. Initially, Barry wrote nearly everything for the band, but as time went on, it became more collaborative. "On Cody, it was myself, Chase, and our producer Rob Schnapf working together. It’s really become a group effort," Barry explained. The band's dynamic allows them to balance creativity, ensuring that no one voice dominates while still pushing each other to create their best work. As for Barry's personal musical tastes, he admitted that while his preferences have evolved slightly over time, they remain grounded in the pop-punk and indie realms. Bands like Weezer, The Gin Blossoms, and The Smiths continue to inspire him. "I like a mix of '90s pop-punk, power pop, and '60s music. I’ve always loved a good song with strong melodies," he said. His love for the craft of songwriting shines through, and it’s clear that melody and structure remain at the heart of his musical identity. When asked about the band's daily routine on tour, Barry joked about how annoying they can be. "We speak our own weird language, and it’s a bit insufferable at times," he laughed. Despite the inside jokes and constant banter, Barry explained that the hardest part of touring is finding time for himself. "Being around people constantly can be tough. I need a little alone time, but it's hard to get that on tour," he shared, offering a glimpse into the reality of life on the road. Despite the challenges, touring remains one of the most exciting parts of being in Joyce Manor. When asked whether the band still parties on tour, Barry was quick to respond. "Oh, we definitely party. It’s one of the best parts, but it can make it hard to keep up the energy for the long haul," he admitted. Still, he’s not planning to slow down anytime soon. "I’m going to milk it for all it’s worth," he laughed. Finally, when asked about new music, Barry confirmed that the band is working on a new record, though there’s no release date just yet. "We’re about halfway through writing and recording it. It’s coming along slowly, but we’re making sure it lives up to the standards we’ve set for ourselves," he teased. As Joyce Manor gets ready to hit the road with The Wonder Years in Australia, fans can look forward to more unforgettable shows, new music on the horizon, and a band that continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. Catch Joyce Manor opening for The Wonder Years with Aussie band Suzi in March and April. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…
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HEAVY Music Interviews

1 Bringing The Heat With JEREMY SOSVILLE From SANHEDRIN 11:32
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Interview by Kris Peters New York trio SANHEDRIN released their long-awaited new full-length, Heat Lightning, last Friday via Metal Blade Records. SANHEDRIN has spent the last decade at the forefront of the American heavy metal scene blending traditional metal and hard rock sounds with a fresh modern energy and perspective. With 2022’s critically lauded Lights On full-length, the band had created their most complete work to date. With their follow-up, Heat Lightning, the band delivers a diverse collection of songs that wholly captures their wide array of influences with an elevated level of production. “Sonically, there’s no comparison,” notes drummer Nathan Honor when asked how Heat Lightning compares to the band’s previous efforts. “Heat Lightning is the fullest representation of the power of this band. When you take three seasoned musicians with their favourite handpicked instruments, put them in front of two brilliant producer/engineers in a studio stacked with incredible equipment and no outside distractions, this is what you get.” Unlike the previous three albums, which were all tracked and mixed by Colin Marston, for Heat Lightning SANHEDRIN opted to work with a fresh set of ears in a new environment. In doing so, the band landed at the legendary Utopia Bearsville studio in Woodstock, New York. At the helm for recording and co-producing were Matt Brown (Life of Agony, A Pale Horse Named Death) and Jerry Farley (Sick Of It All, Madball). Heat Lightning gets its title from the second track of the same name. “Heat lightning is a flash of lightning from very far away, sometimes seen in a clear sky,” says vocalist/bassist Erica Stoltz. “It is used as a metaphor for where we see ourselves at the moment in relation to climate change. Collectively, we have moved further away from our direct relationship to nature and have adopted a paternal relationship with the natural world, as if we have control. It was one of the first songs written for the album, and one of the most dynamic tracks the band has ever written." Elsewhere, The Fight Of Your Life is a tribute to those we call “lifers” in the music business. “It’s about the compulsion to play music no matter what. When you get the bug, and you have it for life, it is your north star, your reason to be,” says Stoltz. Franklin County Line is the fastest song on the record, and inspired guitarist Jeremy Sosville’s hometown and surrounding area in northern New York state. Sosville recounts, “Erica and Nathan came up to visit me and work on new music. In the process, we wrote a song inspired by the local Amish population but with a naughty twist.” The record commences with Blind Wolf, a hard-rocking, heavy metal stomper and the record’s lead single. Lyrically, the song is inspired by the band’s shared fascination with cults. According to Stoltz, “The blind wolf symbolizes losing your animal instincts as a result of adopting someone else's belief system.” The song is straightforward, pounding, and delivered with ill intent. “We knew as soon as the song was complete that it should open the record,” says Sosville. “It really sets the tone for the journey the listener is about to take with this album.” HEAVY caught up with Sosville to find out more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…
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HEAVY Music Interviews

1 Calculating The Past, Present & Future With BEN WEINMAN From THE DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN 20:03
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Interview by Kris Peters When The Dillinger Escape Plan bid their fans farewell at the end of 2017 the resulting ripples in the live community could be felt around the world. Despite leaving at the top of their game, DEP still left more than a few fans with an overwhelming sense of loss, especially those who had heard about the band's legendary, aggressive and all encapsulating live performances, but never got to witness it first hand. Formed in 1997 by guitarist Ben Weinman and vocalist Dimitri Minakakis, DEP soon forged a name for themselves on the back of their high intensity, often violent live, reckless shows, the band had an immediate impact with their 1999 debut full-length Calculating Infinity. Among the first people to jump on board was Mike Patton, who invited DEP out on the road for two months with Mr. Bungle, further strengthening their claims as eclectic and tumultuous trailblazers on the metal scene. Minakakis left the group after that album, with Patton providing vocals on an EP before Greg Puciato submitted a recording which led to him being asked to audition, and the rest is metal history. After five more albums, DEP officially disbanded in 2017, with Minakakis joining the line-up on stage over the last two performances on December 27 and 28. It seemed a fitting finale for the band who had turned heavy metal on its head over the course of their career, and despite everyone's obvious disappointment, the legacy of DEP would live on forever. Now, following an 8-year hiatus, The Dillinger Escape Plan return for a very limited number of live shows to commemorate their groundbreaking album Calculating Infinity and so much more, hitting Australia this August for a run of shows. HEAVY caught up with Ben Weinman to find out more. "We never, ever think about performance, or things like that," he mentioned during the interview. "We always try and be completely uninhibited expression, and that's very important to us. Sometimes I don't even really wanna look out at the crowd, even at soundcheck or anything. I don't wanna have any indication of what to expect, and it's continued to be that way. Although, I think back in the day when we were first writing these songs we had a lot more people looking at us with disgust (laughs), than with enjoyment." We ask if he has to put himself in a mindset before getting on stage. "For me, I can say one of the main aspects of turning on the Dillinger performance is that I'm always nervous," he revealed. "I'm never not nervous. I've never stepped on stage un-nervous. I still feel to this day everyone out there's gonna hate us. We're playing to a pack of wild wolves, and it's just stayed with us. Maybe it's just trauma from when we were younger, but I feel like we wrote music that wasn't supposed to be enjoyed (laughs). And we really wrote an album that was just for us, and it ended up working. I really feel that the fact that we're going out there still not even knowing what the reception will be to some degree - at least mentally - and the nerves is what turns it on. Because you either get up on stage and unleash the beast or you turn around and huddle into a ball and play facing the drums." In the full interview, Ben talks more about what we can expect from the run of shows, revisiting Calculating Infinity, what the album means to him 25 years on, their live intensity and how they sustain it, the early days of The Dillinger Escape Plan, having Mike Patton contribute vocals for an EP after Minakakis left, getting Greg Puciato in the band and what they expected from him, their final 1997 shows with both singers, how that planted the seeds for these reunion shows, the possibility of making the comeback permanent and more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…
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1 Breaking Out Through Music With SIDHARTH KAKADI From ZYGNEMA 21:34
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Interview by Kris Peters Indian heavy outfit Zygnema have spent the past 18 years honing and refining their sounds from their home base of Mumbai, releasing two full length albums, one EP and a handful of singles. The band won the Rolling Stone Metal Awards in 2011, 2014 and 2016 and have performed at Wacken Open Air, Inferno Metal Festival, Osna Metal Fest as well as a few independent shows/tours in Europe. Zygnema recently unveiled their five track EP Iconic which came with two singles, but the band are hoping the sustained success of their music as well as the positive reception for Iconic will see them crack wider markets including Australia. HEAVY spoke with guitarist Sidharth Kadadi to find out more. We discussed the reception to Iconic, found out more about Zygnema and their history, the musical nature of the EP, a more in depth look at each of the five songs, how their music has taken them around the world, winning prestigious awards along the way and more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…
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1 Bleeding For Your Art With KRAGEN LUM From HEATHEN 12:16
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For the past 40 years, the venerated Thrash Metal outfit HEATHEN have abided by their never-say-die attitude. Formed in 1984 in San Francisco’s Bay Area—home to EXODUS, METALLICA, TESTAMENT, and DEATH ANGEL HEATHEN quickly separated themselves from the pack by expertly fusing David White’s distinctive vocals with a melody-driven and forward-thinking musical style. The band’s first two albums, Breaking the Silence and Victims of Deception, are widely regarded as Bay Area Thrash classics. The HEATHEN brand of intelligent yet aggressive Thrash appealed not only to the genre’s core demographic, but also Metal fans looking for brains behind the brawn. The most recent full-length album, Empire of the Blind, continued to push the boundaries of the genre, expanding their audience while restoring faith in vicious yet brainy Thrash Metal, the very kind that put HEATHEN on the map. Since the release of their last album, Empire of the Blind, HEATHEN has toured nonstop, playing hundreds of shows across five continents. From the moment that the COVID restrictions lifted in 2022, the band hit the ground running, touring with contemporaries such as TESTAMENT, EXODUS, OVERKILL, and SYMPHONY X over the last three years. Recorded in several cities across the United States during the 2023 Bleed the World Tour, Bleed the World: Live is the perfect audio representation of the HEATHEN live show. Featuring songs from each of the band’s albums, including recent tracks such as Sun in My Hand and The Blight as well as classics such as Hypnotized and Goblin’s Blade, the live album mirrors the band’s crushing live set list. The cover artwork by Travis Smith depicts a steel HEATHEN logo piercing the bleeding Earth, held by a hand that encapsulates the world tour as a moment in time. Produced by guitarist Kragen Lum and mixed by Zeuss, Bleed the World: Live transports the listener into the concert hall with a crystal-clear yet heavy production and captures the interaction between band and audience that makes every HEATHEN live show special. HEAVY caught up with Lum for a chat earlier today, starting with the early response to the album. "All the feedback that we've gotten so far has been great," he smiled. "One person mentioned that it was like, if you closed your eyes, you were there at the show. And that was exactly what we were trying to do. We made sure that when we were recording, we recorded not just the band, but also the audience at every show so we could really get the live album feel. Those classic live albums that we used to love - Live After Death and many other ones - you feel like you're there because the audience is so prominent. The feedback from the crowd and everything in the song. And I think modern live albums are missing that because a lot of bands record the show, but they don't record the audience, and you're kind of missing an important element to the live show." In the full interview, Kragem spoke more about what to expect from Bleed The World: Live, the early feedback, if the band approached the concerts any differently knowing they were being recorded for an album, the process of putting together the tracks and selecting them, how critical the band members were of themselves when they listened back through, how they made every effort to replicate the live sound on the album, his early experiences with Heathen before joining, if there was any pressure on him coming into an established band and how long it took him to feel comfortable, their strike record of one album every ten years and if they plan to speed up that process moving forward, the possibilities of coming to Australia and more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…
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1 TRAVIS STEVER on Balancing COHEED AND CAMBRIA With L.S. DUNES 16:03
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Interview by Angela Croudace Travis Stever, guitarist for both Coheed and Cambria and L.S. Dunes, is a musician who thrives on creative challenges. In an interview with HEAVY, Stever reflects on the evolution of Coheed’s sound, the ongoing exploration of new musical landscapes, and the balance between his two distinct musical worlds. When asked about Coheed and Cambria’s latest release, The Father Of Make Believe (released today), Stever notes that while the band always experiments with new sounds, what sets this album apart is the expansive exploration of styles within a familiar framework. "The box is so massive that we allow ourselves to create within it. We go outside of it, but not so far that fans will be left wondering what we’re doing,” he explains. The band continues to evolve, but as Stever points out, their willingness to experiment has been a constant, leading to albums that always surprise, yet never stray too far from their core sound. At the heart of the new album lies a theme of internal conflict, a wall within oneself. Stever shares that this theme resonates deeply within the band, particularly in how personal growth and struggles are reflected in the music. He describes the songwriting process as a journey of self-acceptance, where overthinking gives way to simplicity and beauty. "You realise life doesn’t need to be so complicated," he muses, pointing to the sense of peace the band has found in their evolution as both artists and individuals. Stever's dual role in Coheed and Cambria and L.S. Dunes, another band that offers a more collaborative and raw sound, presents an interesting dynamic. The contrast in approach is striking. "In Coheed, it’s Claudio’s songs, and I add my identity to them," Stever explains, noting that his role is often about enhancing Claudio Sanchez’s vision. However, with L.S. Dunes, the creative process is more democratic, with everyone contributing equally. "It’s more of a group consciousness," Stever discusses the band's writing approach, highlighting how the collaborative effort—where he adds his own contributions to the ideas brought forward by fellow guitarist Frank Iero—injects a unique energy into their music. Touring is another key topic, and Stever is excited about the possibility of returning to Australia. Reflecting on his previous experiences, including Coheed's headlining spot at Australia’s Monolith Festival, Stever fondly recalls the intimate connection the band had with the audience. "Tasmania was mind-blowing," he says, sharing his appreciation for the passionate Australian fans. With talks of a 2025 Australian tour, Stever hopes the band can return and continue fostering that special connection. Finally, Stever offers insight into the evolution of L.S. Dunes' sound, specifically the band’s latest record, Violet. The song's optimistic tone marks a departure from the darker, more confined themes explored in Past Lives. Stever attributes this shift to the personal growth of the band’s members, especially lead vocalist Anthony Green, whose newfound sense of balance and self-awareness has directly influenced the band's sound and lyrical direction. Stever reflects on the growth of both Coheed and Cambria and L.S. Dunes, emphasising that the journey of artistic expression is always ongoing—full of challenges, rewards, and an ever-expanding soundscape. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…
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1 Two Sides Of The Coin With ADRIAN SMITH From SMITH/KOTZEN 15:52
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Interview by Kris Peters When Adrian Smith (Iron Maiden) and Richie Kotzen (The Winery Dogs) first joined forces for their debut self-titled album in 2021 it was as though the music Gods had finally listened to our prayers. Here were two of possibly the greatest guitarists of the modern era in their preferred genres, forming a sonically unlikely union that most feared would be a one-time merging of passions that dissipated once both parties overcame yet another musical challenge to emerge triumphant. Blending both guitarists' loves of music, that first release was a smouldering mix of hard rock, blues, groove and R & B with splashings of metal and attitude where it mattered. The fact that both Kotzen and Smith shared guitar, bass, vocals, composing and production duties on the album added to the allure of their music, each contributing different sides of their musical psyche while experimenting with sides that were either dormant or previously non-existent. It was that good. But, as is their right, Smith and Kotzen played their cards close to their chest over the ensuing years, neither fully committed or non-committal to a second helping. As the years ticked over it seemed less likely that we would hear another record from Smith/Kotzen before the announcement came late last year that round two was certainly on the cards and that the friends and celebrated musicians had each found time in their busy schedules to start on the next whirlwind of expectation that a new album inevitably brings. Thus Black Light/White Noise was introduced to the world, and after being teased with two singles that bear the names of each individual component of the album title, we are fast approaching the finish line when album number two is set free in the world on April 4. Black Light/White Noise is a truly magnificent collection of songs that stands shoulder to shoulder with some of Smith and Kotzen's finest work to date. Atmospheric, ambitious, diverse and brilliant, it not only features stratospheric guitar solos and phenomenal rock vocals but soulful touches, intricate playing, beautiful songwriting and an assured poise and style that brings to mind a host of legendary bands and musicians (Thin Lizzy, Jimi Hendrix, Prince, Cream, Free, Deep Purple) yet is undeniably the work of Adrian Smith and Richie Kotzen in perfect harmony. With the release date rapidly approaching, HEAVY jumped at the chance to spend some time with Adrian Smith, after we had the pleasure of speaking with Kotzen the first time around. We get straight to the point, reiterating claims from most who have heard the new album, who say it is quite possibly the best slab of music either of them has done individually or together. Then follow up by asking if they are right. "Well…" he measured. "You write the songs the best you can, and you play them the best you can. I think… I think this is a more consistent album than the first one. It's probably a little more up-tempo. Obviously over time, Richie and I developed our writing relationship. Our playing relationship, I think, has gone from strength to strength." Black Light/White Noise ticks all of the boxes you would expect and more. There's guitar solos, funk, groove, blues, hard rock and more guitar solos but the overriding thing HEAVY took out of our listen was that it sounds like Smith and Kotzen genuinely had fun and enjoyed the process. "I play music because I wanna do it, anyway," Smith replied. "But yeah, it's fun. Richie and I are friends and have been for the best part of ten years. I live part time in America. I'm over there usually around Christmas, and we met up one year - I had a party at my house - and we started jamming Bad Company and Stevie Ray Vaughan and all that blues and someone said you guys should write together so that's what we ended up doing. And we did it because it was fun and we thought we had something to say as well. I take a lot of inspiration from 70s music. I grew up and that music had a massive effect on me when I was a kid - it changed my life - so I take that as my basic inspiration. Then you try and take that to another level. You try and use it as an ingredient and write songs that stand up on their own." In the full interview, Adrian discusses the singles released and how they represent the overall album, their extra emphasis on collaboration this time around and how it impacted the finished result, the album title and how it combines two album tracks to create a mental image, the creative process and how they harnessed their individual talents into a cohesive unit, his favourite tracks on the album, taking Smith/Kotzen into a live setting and more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…
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1 Brothers in Rock: SISTERS DOLL's Journey From Collie To Global Stardom 21:42
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Interview by Angela Croudace HEAVY had a chat with Austin Mileto, lead guitarist of Sisters Doll; the band's journey and their latest album Scars were explored in detail. From their glam rock beginnings to their evolution as a band, Sisters Doll's unique sound and captivating stage presence have resonated with audiences worldwide. The name, Sisters Doll, was inspired by the glam rock aesthetic they sought to embrace. Austin shared that they were drawn to the bold, colourful looks of bands like Twisted Sister and New York Dolls. Their name, created by the band’s singer Brennan Mileto, stuck because of its catchy syllables and the visual impact it invoked. Scars marks a significant chapter in the band’s story; after a long hiatus since their 2017 release All Dolled Up, the band poured their personal experiences into the album, with each track symbolising a different scar from their lives. Austin explained that the inspiration came naturally, shaped by the challenges they faced both personally and professionally. The band worked remotely during COVID to demo and refine their songs, collaborating with producer Ricki Rae to shape their latest sound. Sisters Doll's musical influences are diverse, ranging from classic rock icons like Kiss and Van Halen to contemporary artists like Machine Gun Kelly and Olivia Rodrigo. Austin revealed that while their core sound remains rock and roll, the band's individual tastes—ranging from country to flamenco—bring unique textures to their music. Austin also shared stories from the band's early days, including a memorable tour experience where the band’s van broke down multiple times, testing their endurance. But with persistence and support from their family (especially their sweet mother who rescued them roadside), they powered through, learning valuable lessons along the way. Looking ahead, the band is gearing up for an exciting USA tour, including a performance on the Monsters of Rock Cruise, where they’ll share the stage with some of their heroes, such as Extreme and George Lynch. An incredible achievement for this band of brothers—quite literally, all four members are siblings! Hailing from Western Australia, they were propelled to musical success at an impressively young age. Despite their rising fame, they continue to reach new heights while maintaining a refreshingly down-to-earth charm that resonates with fans worldwide. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…
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1 The Perfect Storm With COURTNEY LaPLANTE From SPIRITBOX 21:49
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Interview by Kris Peters Driven by a desire to rise beyond their surroundings in the picturesque yet isolated region of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, vocalist Courtney Laplante and guitarist Mike Stringer combined to form Spiritbox in 2017. Little did they know their musical trajectory from there would be swift and monumental, cementing themselves as a household name in the Summer of 2020 with the release of their blistering breakout single Holy Roller, along with a host of other captivating singles shortly after resulting in a media firestorm of hype. The following year Spiritbox released their debut album Eternal Blue, kicking open the doors of the heavy metal scene and rewriting the genre's playbook with 12 stunning tracks that incorporated everything from djent and post-metal to infectious synth-laden pop sensibilities and cinematic arrangements, brought fully to life by the inimitable Laplante's ethereal and commanding vocal performances. After furthering their sonic expansion over two more EPs Spiritbox have now unleashed their sophomore album, the mesmerizing and ferociously beautiful Tsunami Sea, once more pushing the boundaries of acceptance in a genre that is often restricting by nature. It is an album of contrasting styles and emotions, majestically entwined with the DNA from which Spiritbox have built their empire. There is a storm coming indeed, and that storm is called Tsunami Sea. HEAVY spoke with Laplante to discuss things in more detail. "A lot of work went into it with the planning," she mused. "When we do a full-length album it's usually - if you do it more traditionally like how we are doing this one - a whole dramatic, climactic roll out. You start promoting it. You want to give it a fair shot. So you start promoting it early, and it's just this huge big climactic thing. Like you said, it's like D Day." We ask Courtney to dive into the musical side of Tsunami Sea and what the band were going for with it. "I don't normally say this until after the album comes out, but all of our work… everything. Everything we've ever made, any body of work is actually a concept album but we don't market it as a concept album," she revealed."This one is no different. Each body of work has its own little story and the story of this one is… it's just representing, lyrically, myself, and then instrumentally Michael expressing the push and pull that we feel being from an island off the West coast of Canada. It's interesting living there if your goal is to leave the island and go play your music to other people. As you guys know too. it's the same that a lot of Australian bands think sometimes as well when they're trying to leave. You feel so remote and isolated and it feels impossible to leave. And then you leave and you miss it. That really intertwines with me with depression. Like, deteriorating mental health. There's the deep depression and then there can be mania then deep depression, and it's so polarizing. It reminded me of the ocan and it reminded me of growing up surrounded by water and it reminded me of how where are from… whre we are at sea level if the big earthquake - everyone here calls it The Big One - ever happens, our whole island will either completely be submerged by water and we'll all die, or at least we'' be more cut off and no-one could get us any food or anything. It's kind of like that existential dread under the surface that you push down and suppress and to live your life you have to push it all the way down, and not every day wake up and hope it's not today." In the full interview, Courtney opens up more about Tsunami Sea, the temptations of rehashing the same winning formula that worked so well with Eternal Blue, why it was important to not do that, album opener Fata Morgana and why it was chosen as first point of contact, how Tsunami Sea represents Spiritbox moving forward, the early days of the band and the climate that spawned them, their early success and how they dealt with it, touring plans and more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…
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1 Burning Minds With BRETT CAMPBELL From PALLBEARER 11:20
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Interview by Kris Peters Renowned doom metal merchants PALLBEARER make their return to Australia in March 2025 for an electrifying tour, promising to deliver their signature blend of haunting melodies and crushing riffs. Joining them on all dates will be special guests UK doom metal titans CONAN. The 2024 release of Mind Burns Alive finds Pallbearer navigating the space between disquiet and serenity with a singular intensity. At times poetic and blistering, their fifth full length is a heartfelt meditation on isolation, trauma and mental breakdown, framed by the possibility of redemption and the quiet aching beauty of escape. Known for their colossal riffs and unrelenting heaviness, Conan has carved a unique niche in the metal scene, drawing fans with their atmospheric yet punishing sound. This tour comes on the heels of their critically acclaimed album, Evidence of Immortality, which showcases their evolution while staying true to their doom-laden roots. HEAVY spoke with Pallbearer frontman Brett Campbell before he boarded the flight to find out what we can expect.. In the interview Brett told us what has changed with the band since their last visit eight years ago, what to expect from their live show, choosing Conan as touring partners and why, their recent album Mind Burns Alive and how much of that they will be p[laying, the reaction to that album, gauging an albums' success in the modern era, the early days of the band, future plans and more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…
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1 Doubling Down En Route To Australia With GRANT NICHOLAS From FEEDER 9:47
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Interview by Kris Peters Feeder delivered two monster albums in a row, 2001's Echo Park and 2002’s Comfort In Sound, establishing themselves as one of the UK’s biggest and most loved rock acts. But that was merely the beginning. While most of their peers faded away, Feeder cemented their place as one of the most enduring acts in modern rock with over 20 million albums sold, multiple number 1 albums in the UK charts, and a legacy of unforgettable live performances. Always masters of marrying the light and the dark, illuminating the shadowy corners of their world to uncover something poignant and uplifting, their anthemic alt-rock songs packed with emotional depth and intensity have earned a devoted fan base around the globe. Feeder continue to cement their legacy with their latest release Black/Red, a double album, which is the final instalment of a trilogy of albums with and the final two parts to Torpedo. Equipped with an unrelenting barrage of rock anthems such as Buck Rogers, Feeling a Moment, Just a Day, Just the Way I’m Feeling, Come Back Around and High, Australian fans are set for an incredible treat when the Feeder juggernaut rolls across the country in April. When HEAVY spoke with frontman Grant Nicholas, he spoke more about Feeder's first Australian tour in 14 years, starting in April, after previous attempts were hindered by scheduling conflicts. He emphasized the band's dedication to creating timeless music rather than following trends and expressed excitement about the lively Australian crowds, which he compared to Scottish audiences. Nicholas discussed the challenge of developing a set list that balances new songs from their latest double album, Black/Red, with classic fan favourites, aiming for a performance that feels like a blend of a new album tour and a festival best-of set. He reflected on the significance of releasing a double album after 30 years in the industry, noting it as a major achievement, though he may not pursue another. Additionally, he shared insights into Feeder's formation in the early 1990s, highlighting their hard work and commitment to maintaining a unique identity amidst a competitive music scene, and invited fans to join them for what promises to be memorable shows. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…
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1 Making Up For Lost Time With JOHNNY 3 YEARS From HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD 16:50
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Interview by Kris Peters Bursting onto the scene in 2005 with a rap/metal hybrid sound that had, by then, all but vanished from the scene, Hollywood Undead almost made it a personal mission to revive the sound. By the time they released their 2008 debut album Swan Songs that mission had already been conquered and Hollywood Undead have been waging - and winning - countless battles ever since. Fans flock to their shows, so-called respectable media outlets have stuck to them like bees to honey, and even the mainstream music market have embraced the Californian metal fusion outfit with their albums and singles charting through the roof. And, despite all of these obvious pre-cursors, Hollywood Undead have never come close to selling out. Not that they have ever needed to. After far too long between visits, Hollywood Undead are on their way back to Australia, forming part of a line-up that also includes Falling In Reverse and Black Veil Brides. It is a monster line-up that has already seen most of the tour sell out. But there are limited tickets left, and if you don't manage to get your hands on one, fear not, Hollywood Undead are also doing a couple of headlining sideshows in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. HEAVY caught up with vocalist Johnny 3 Tears to find out what we can expect, pointing out the quality of the line-up. "It's gonna be a lot of fun, man," he smiled. "We've done five or six tours with falling and we did a tour in a van with Black Veil 10, 20 years ago. I dunno, it's been a long time. We've also been on the same festivals. We all run in the same circles so you get to know each other over time. It's very incestural (laughs)." We ask Johnny to run through any changes with the band since their last visit here. "It's been ten years since we've been there, and fifteen… 2011 was the last time we did a tour in Australia, so fourteen years," he recounted. "Then we did that festival there in 2015, that's how long it's been. A lot has changed…. well, nothing's changed and a lot has changed, I guess. We're still going, we're just a few more albums in deep, we're ten years older sadly. Closer to the grave, bro but still going strong. We're very much looking forward to coming back and hopefully it's not so long between this trip and the next one." In the full interview, Johnny reveals what we can expect from Hollywood Undead live, the dynamics between themselves, Falling In Reverse and Black Veil Brides, how their headline shows will differ, how they approach support slots in terms of set lists and playing to a crowd possibly not there for them, the early days of the band and where they fit in, the impact of their debut album Swan Songs and their thoughts on the album pre-release, how Hollywood Undead have changed musically from that album to now, new music and more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support .…
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