The Right Time To Celebrate With SCOTT ANDERSON From FINGER ELEVEN

Interview by Kris PetersWhen 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.

13 Maalis 15min

Interview by Angela CroudaceHEAVY 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.

13 Maalis 21min

Interview by Kris PetersDriven 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.

13 Maalis 21min

Interview by Kris PetersRenowned 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.

11 Maalis 11min

Interview by Kris PetersFeeder 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.

9 Maalis 9min

Interview by Kris PetersBursting 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.

9 Maalis 16min

Interview by Kris PetersFans all over the world worship DESTRUCTION as one of the biggest names in thrash metal with a 40+ year career. As part of the legendary Teutonic 4 alongside German thrash icons Sodom, Tankard and Kreator, DESTRUCTION have forged a legacy that will cement their place in metal history long after many of the bands of today have flown the coop.One of the most undisputedly important, influential and genre-defying bands in thrash metal, Destruction refuse to rest on their reputation or laurels, attacking each new album cycle with renewed vigour and dedication to their craft. Such is their influence, Destruction is one of the few bands in the world who could simply rehash each new album in the sonic image of its predecessor but despite the obvious appeal of thrash metal remaining within the confines of its own boundaries, Destruction continue to expand on their musical output while allowing the DNA that is their music to run free in their veins.Speaking of album cycles, Destruction have just unleashed their 16th beast, a raging slab of metal titled Birth Of Malice.On Birth Of Malice, scene-legend and original member Schmier once again combines his dual vocal/bass attack with crashing riffs from battleaxe masters Martin Furia and Damir Eskić, while Randy Black blasts pummelling drums to new heights. As witnessed on their previous thrash-fest Diabolical (2022), DESTRUCTION return with their uniquely raw and brutal sound, delivering merciless songs with a touch more variety and groove this time. All twelve songs from the butcher's hit with a direct, clean sound – resulting in addictive metal anthems for a new generation of thrashers.HEAVY had the honour of spending some time with founding member Schmier to find out more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

9 Maalis 21min

Interview by Angela CroudaceIn a recent chat with Nils Molin from the Swedish metal band Dynazty, we delved into the creative process behind their latest album, Game of Faces, exploring the album’s thematic depth, the challenges of creating music during post-pandemic times, and the band’s future plans.The album title reflects the duality Nils felt when writing the title track. He explained that the contrast between dark and happy sounds within the song led him to envision theatrical masks—symbolising the complex and often deceptive nature of human expression. "People are deceptive by nature," Nils noted, acknowledging the masks we wear in different situations.The album's creation wasn’t without its hurdles. Writing during a time of constant touring, the band faced the challenge of maintaining creative momentum while juggling their busy schedules. Despite this, Nils emphasized that their approach to songwriting remained consistent, prioritizing authenticity and creative freedom over any external expectations. “You just write with the same enthusiasm and inspiration you always have,” he said.When discussing the impact of their previous album’s success, particularly Heartless Madness achieving Platinum status, Nils was quick to point out that it didn’t directly alter their approach to songwriting. However, the success provided a sense of momentum and belief, fuelling their continued creativity.Looking ahead, Nils expressed excitement about performing new tracks like Fire to Fight, which he believes will resonate strongly with fans due to its energetic and live-oriented nature. Beyond the music, Nils shared his personal interests, from his love of European football to the importance of reinvention. He believes in the value of personal and creative evolution, a theme he explores in his songwriting.As for Australian fans, Nils teased the possibility of a future tour, promising that Dynazty would be looking into it soon. The band’s commitment to staying true to their roots while exploring new musical territories promises even more exciting things to come.For Nils, Dynazty represents more than just a band; it’s about five musicians sharing their love for music, creating something genuine, and enjoying every moment on stage. "We just try to play something that we like, and hopefully, others will like it too," he said.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

8 Maalis 17min