Destroying Everything With SKINNY From DEATHSTARS

Interview by Kris PetersCanberra metal outfit St. Sinner are amongst the emerging breed of acts who are increasingly shunning expectation in favour of growth and expression.With a sound that is constantly morphing into a hybrid of styles and genres, St. Sinner recently showcased their intentions with the EP Identity Crisis, containing eight songs that exemplify the band's refusal to paint within the lines while blurring the conventional perception of reality.It is an EP that signifies musical evolution of the highest degree, setting St. Sinner on a path with destiny that is now firmly in their grasp, with one eye firmly planted in reality, in direct contrast to the wandering eye that refuses to yield.HEAVY caught up with frontman Rory Maclean to dive deeper into Identity Crisis and the immediate future of the band.We discussed Identity Crisis from a sonic viewpoint, with Rory emphasising St. Sinner's vision to create a narrative story with their releases, exploring a diverse musical approach each time. He provided insights into the creation of the opening title track and the evolution of the song Devil Boy and also delved into the inspiration, production, and themes of their songs Headcase, Villain, and Dysphoria.Rory elaborated on his strategy of associating different colours with the singles and chapters within Identity Crisis to enhance memorability for marketing and aesthetic purposes. He emphasized the importance of using them to create a cohesive visual identity and discussed the specific colours associated with each single. The conversation also discussed the inspiration behind the song Lost It and the decision to create an animated lyric video for the music clip, also talking about the guest artists who performed on the EP and what they brought musically.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

21 Aug 202436min

Interview by Kris PetersQueensland hard hitters Goatzilla have managed to strike that elusive chord that blends thrash metal and punk together in an almost cohesive summoning of the forces of music that is almost irresistible when done right.It is hard to believe the band are approaching their ten-year anniversary of life on this planet, with their infectious and witty brand of music infecting the masses ever since the surprise success of the single Drop Bear back in 2019.That song and the album it came from, Muthafukarsaurus, cemented Goatzilla as one of the bands to watch from the emerging pile of contenders, and the ensuing groundswell it created gave the band renewed focus and vision.So much so that it has been 5 long years since that album came out with Goatzilla opting not to rush things in the hope of quick success, instead deciding to take their time honing a sonic body of work that would linger long in the memories of those who bared their ears to it.The result is Alien Nation, which will be unleashed on August 16.Already, Goatzilla have proved the wait will be worth it on the back of lead singles Secret Agent Man and Alien Nation, but they provide only a glimpse into the musical psyche of Goatzilla 2024.Bass player Ben Zilla joined HEAVY to tell us more."The sound is always evolving and growing," he replied when asked if Alien Nation captures the complete Goatzilla sound. "This one is different from Muthafukarsaurus. It's still certainly heavy. It's got that heavy background; it's still got the punk roots - very much so. We're still very much a punk rock band, but bringing in more elements of metal as we're evolving. This is all stuff that's been written through COVID with the two Pete's coming in and throwing their stuff in, as well as Mick, our drummer, who brought the real… he's a good 15 years younger than us, and he brought some more modern metal vibes and sensibilities to it. We're really excited. It took a lot longer than we initially thought because of COVID and everything that went along with it. All the guitars, all the drums, and all the bass we recorded in home studios and Pete Jansen mixed and mastered everything himself. It was a big learning curve, but the results speak for themselves. We're really excited with what we've put together, especially having it on vinyl too."In the full interview, Ben discusses the musical direction of Alien Nation, the singles released and how they represent the album as a whole, how Alien Nation differs to Muthafukarsaurus, the themes explored, finding the balance between genres and how they know if they have gone too far, their current tour and remaining dates, what to expect from Goatzilla live and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

15 Aug 202422min

Interview by Sam Spade from The Midnight DevilsUS rockers Buckcherry return to Australia this September for a run of shows hot on the heels of their massively successful new album Vol. 10 which came out earlier this year.Almost a quarter of a century after their debut self-titled album, Buckcherry are still the benchmark for good time party rock, with an always energetic live performance to compliment their catchy as fuck impressive catalogue that, of course, includes Crazy Bitch, Lit Up and Sorry.Taking a fresh approach to cornering frontman Josh Todd ahead of the band's trip Down Under, HEAVY asked The Midnight Devils frontman Sam Spade to take the reins in what proved a master-stroke in terms of coaxing the best out of Todd.Spade and Todd connected instantly over rock and roll, discussing Buckcherry's upcoming Australian tour with Rose Tattoo and their new record, Vol. 10. They also talked about the band's history, their dedication to touring and live performances, and the challenges of being on the road. The conversation highlighted the band's resilience and commitment to their music, as well as the unique lifestyle of touring musicians.Josh and Sam also discussed the profound impact of sobriety on their creative processes and overall productivity. They emphasized the fallacy of associating substance use with creativity and expressed their commitment to maintaining sobriety despite the temptations they encounter in their industry. Additionally, they talked about the challenges and opportunities presented by the modern music industry, emphasizing the importance of embracing change and leveraging digital platforms to reach and engage with audiences.Check out the full interview to find out more.Buckcherry kick off the tour in Perth on September 24, with Aussie legends Rose Tattoo opening all shows.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

14 Aug 202429min

Melbourne grindcore/death metal outfit Remains are making their way to Queensland in the near future, nailing down one of thirty spots at the inaugural Necrosonic Festival to be held at Brisbane's Mansfield Tavern on August 31.Despite forming only five years ago, Remains have quickly built a formidable reputation on the live circuit, with the vast experience of members - who have previously been in highly reputed bands such as Blood Duster, Captain Cleanoff, The Kill, Fuck I’m Dead, King and The Day Everything Became Nothing - helping Remains gain an early solid fan base until the sheer brutality of their music forced others to follow suit.HEAVY recently caught up with Tonebone to find out what Brisbane can expect.In the full interview, Tonebone talks about the atmosphere backstage at larger local festivals, who he is most looking forward to seeing, the re-emergence of the Australian metal festivals, what to expect from a Remains live performance, three songs to listen to in order to get to know the band, their style of music and how best to describe it, establishing their own identity with a collection of members from other well-known bands, new music, future plans and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

13 Aug 20249min

Todd Hansen is one of those rare breed of musicians that is just plain nice.Almost too nice.Known, loved and respected for bashing the skins with bands like Headkase, The Berzerker, F.U.C and King Parrot, it is his contributions to things outside of and closely related to music that makes him not only a great skinsman but also a champion bloke.In his spare time Todd also teaches drums, lends his chops as a session drummer, travels the world doing what he loves, produces an entertaining podcast called Drumwell and generally spreads and shares his passion with all those who come within earshot of him. No ego. No judgement. No stress.But it is his work with charity organisations that is perhaps closest to his heart. Most recently Todd ran the gruelling Bridge To Brisbane race to raise money and awareness, but now is he about to lay himself bare - literally - like never before as he prepares to go under the blade to raise money for Support Act in a selfless show of faith that possibly rivals even that of the great Samson.Yep, on Saturday, August 17, Todd Hansen is saying goodbye to his safety blanket of the past 24 years as he gets his infamous dreadlocks removed from his body in an act of defiance that shall forever be referred to as Toddy's Dreadlock Chop. But don't take it from us, let Todd tell you in his own words."After 24 years, it’s time to lighten my head and chop off the dreads," he said. "And what better reason to raise some funds for the great work Support Act do for the people working within the Australian music industry? I’ll be losing the locks at 2.00pm AEST on Saturday 17th August, live-streaming at www.facebook.com/toddhansenofficial.I would like to raise $2424, to represent 24 years of my dreadlocks being cut off in 2024. All donations are greatly appreciated, and will help Support Act continue to provide their services to music industry workers in crisis."Check out the full interview for all of the gruesome details.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

11 Aug 202418min

Interview by Kris PetersMortality changed the landscape of Australian heavy metal when they burst onto the local scene back in 1992.Powered by an aggressive blending of thrash, death and groove metal, the band quickly established themselves as not just a musical force, but also a devastating and brutal live act that bludgeoned every aural sense possible. The world was theirs for the taking, with their 1997 album Structure gaining universal acclaim and paving the way for international dominance.But, unfortunately, just six months later Mortality went on hiatus, unsure if or when they would return to the fold.After a one-off sold-out show at the Empire Hotel, the band returned to the darkness once more, leaving a multitude of fans and lovers of metal in general demanding - but not necessarily receiving - more.While COVID ravaged the planet, it also provided the catalyst for a rebirth of Mortality and, as whispers slowly gave way to thunder, it became evident that the Metal Gods had intervened and renewed the spark in the Sydney metal outfit.2024 is the official return of Mortality, with the band set to play a leading role in Necrosonic Festival at Brisbane's Mansfield Tavern on August 31 alongside Psycroptic, Crypt, Lo!, Misery, Bulletbelt and more.HEAVY caught up with bass player Luke Ford to find out more. We start by asking if the nerves have kicked in for Necrosonic yet."We're ready," he shot back. "We've been rehearsing for close to a year, so it's good to get out of our room (laughs) and actually see people respond to what it is that we're doing. You never really know. We thought it was good. We thought we were doing well. But until you get in front of a crowd, and you've got all the usual elements that can impact it, you don't really know. Everyone's been doing music a long time and played in various bands over the years, so it was good when we did play last week to get the reaction that we were hoping for. Not really apprehensive, more just ready to destroy, to be honest."In the full interview, Luke talks more about Necrosonic Festival and the importance such gigs have on the Australian music scene, what bands he is looking forward to catching up with, the early days of Mortality, where their sound came from, their attitude towards self-promotion and getting their name out there, the changing landscape of music that saw them shift tides leading into the 1997 album Structure, their disbandment 6 months after that album and what led to the decision, the decision to reform Mortality and how it came about, writing new music, their first live show back last weekend, future plans and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

10 Aug 202417min

Interview by Kyra-Jade CoombsSydney trio Yours Truly stamped themselves on the Australian music landscape with their impressive 2020 album Self Care, which was nominated for an ARIA for Best Hard Rock or Heavy album.Rather than rest on their laurels, the band attacked their craft with even more intent, spending 2023 touring Europe alongside You Me At Six, ticking off their first-ever UK headline shows, supporting Against The Current in North America and touring Australia nationally with Neck Deep.Yours Truly kicked off 2024 with an appearance at THPS25 in Brisbane, celebrating 25 years of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater with Tony Hawk himself in attendance, as well as embarking on their entirely sold-out Call My Name Tour across Australia in March. The band will also return overseas later this year, appearing at Reading and Leeds Festival in the UK this August alongside headliners Blink-182, Fred Again, Lana Del Rey, Liam Gallagher and many more.It is a fitting reward for a band who have championed the cause of Australian music at every opportunity, with their new album, TOXIC (out August 16), set to propel the band and their music to even greater heights.HEAVY caught up with vocalist Mikaila Delgado and guitarist Teddie Winder-Haron to venture inside the new album and the band's future plans."Nervous, and excited," Teddie smiled when asked how they were feeling about the impending release of Toxic. "Mostly excited. We've been hanging out a bunch prepping for all the shows we've got coming up and practicing a lot, so I think just being around each other is hyping each other up. Still a little bit nervous, but I guess that's part of it."HEAVY asks about the selection process for album singles."Call My Name we chose just because we loved it, so much," Mikaila began. "It was actually finished before we tracked the album. It was the first song we tracked for the record and everyone was like wait and see what other songs we get from the album when it is finished - because a song can change - and we got to a point where we thought this song is still gonna be good, let's just put it out. I think Sour was the same. When we wrote it, we were like, this is gonna be a single. I guess it's just having that gut feeling."Watch/listen to the full interview for more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

9 Aug 202411min

Interview by Kyra-Jade CoombsIn my opinion, The Living End are a staple in the Australian music scene. They have graciously given us 8 albums and if you break them down over the years, you find hit after hit. Their debut album (self-titled) is one of those albums you can play start to finish and happily immerse yourself right into their music and feel nothing but pure joy.HEAVY took the chance to have a chat with singer/ guitar player Chris Cheney to see what’s new in the world of The Living End…From the 15-17 of August The Living End are playing the sold-out Mundi Mundi Bash in Broken Hill with a few other huge names like Baby Animals (my absolute favourite!), James Reyne, Jon Stevens, Ian Moss, Daryl Braithwaite and Diesel to name a few. The fact that it has sold out in outback Broken Hill is amazing news for a health check of our Australian music industry. We are slowly getting back on track.Chris immediately laughed, saying it’s surreal that although he grew up listening to most of these guys; he never thought he would see the day where he could call them mates and share the stage with them. A far cry from starting out and playing the front bar of the Epsy!Fans would be happy to hear that they are chipping away at creating their 9th album, and it’s said to be ‘the most aggressive album’ they have put together in years. If you jump onto The Living End social media, you can see a few behind the scenes shots that look like a bunch of fun.I must admit, I was absolutely stoked to be able to interview Chris. I had 1000 questions to ask him and could honestly chat for hours. We covered lots of cool shit like playing in Australia’s golden days of the Big Day Out tours, getting rotation Triple J and appearing on Recovery – Channel [V] to having that telepathic connections with his band mates, giving way to improve jams that can either be a trainwreck or magic, in his words! You’ll get a glimpse into his creative space, where he’s got a set-up to appease any creative mood. An area for producing music, painting and even a bar. What more could you want, really?Being someone who’s so passionate about music, I wondered what band or album Chris would give his younger self, or bring to his attention earlier if he could go back in time. To my surprise, he said early Cold Chisel… I guess I just assumed that would have been a staple. Yet of course being someone who grew up smashing the shredders of the world like Eddie Van Halen then going onto 50s music, Aussie pub rock wasn’t the path they were on, nor wanted to. Which is interesting to think about the full circle moment from starting out as a young band being told to ‘play Aussie rock’ to being put on the huge bills with the original Australian pub rock music pioneers and staying true to who they are.Chris is a very humble guy and genuinely - so stoked to have reached the status that they have today with The Living End. He is the kind of person you want as a role model for young musicians and says there’s a space for every type of music, which sings true to his kind nature. The Living End boys still have “a lot of fuel in the tank” and thankfully aren’t showing signs of slowing down!If you were lucky enough to secure a ticket to the Mundi Mundi Bash then get out there and have the time of your life! And if you didn’t then that will teach you not to sleep on a good thing!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

9 Aug 202419min