Exploring New Territory With EYESITE

Interview by Angela CroudaceIn our interview with Tobias Sammet, the frontman of power metal giants Avantasia, he revealed exciting insights into the band’s upcoming album, Here Be Dragons, and shared his personal experiences shaping the music. With the new record set to be released soon, Sammet spoke candidly about the band’s evolving sound, future touring plans, and creative process.Though fans eagerly await news of an Australian tour, Sammet couldn’t confirm any dates yet. "There’s no hint yet, but I want to go back because the last time was amazing," he said. He acknowledged the strong heavy metal audience in Australia, emphasising that while there are no concrete plans at the moment, a Latin American and North American tour is in the works.One of the standout tracks on Here Be Dragons is Against the Wind, which carries a deeply personal message. Sammet explained that the song was inspired by his reflections on life and the pressures of external expectations. “It’s about staying true to yourself and saying, ‘I’ll do it my way,’” he revealed. The powerful lyrics, written while Sammet was at the shoreline of Cornwall, embody a spirit of defiance and resilience.In discussing his musical collaborations, Sammet shared his admiration for Kenny Leckremo. He said of the singer's voice, “He’s got no limitations… he’s a technical prodigy, and he really fits into the Avantasia style.” Sammet’s keen ear for unique voices is evident in his choice of collaborators, with Leckremo standing out as a perfect match for Here Be Dragons.As for the album itself, Sammet admitted that it represents a shift from Avantasia’s usual concept-driven approach. Rather than being a fully conceptual album, it’s a collection of short stories that reflect his creative freedom. “It’s a liberating approach," he said, "I just threw myself into the waves of creativity and it worked.”Fans can look forward to Here Be Dragons blending Avantasia’s signature style with fresh elements. Sammet’s openness to exploring new ideas while staying true to the band’s roots promises an album full of musical surprises, ready to captivate fans all over again. Props to Tobias for being such a pleasure to interview, it's hard to not like the guy and the dedication to his craft that drips from every pore. I really hope we see Avantasia on our shores in the near future.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

28 Feb 26min

Words by Kris PetersKnotfest throws up so many sonic moments of metal fury each year, but one of the lesser known - but equally as interesting - parts of the travelling music festival is the Knotfest Museum.Assembled from a massive collection of Slipknot memorabilia from the entirety of the bands' history, the Knotfest Museum is a treasure trove of goodness for the discerning Maggot, and even those with just a passing interest in a band that has revolutionised the world of heavy metal.Showcasing everything from old masks to costumes to photos to rarities (last years was Clown's solid gold mask, out of captivity for the first time ever) to the opportunity to actually play guitars as used on stage by Jim Root, Mick Thompson and V-Man, the Knotfest Museum is a must-see addition to Knotfest and one which will leave you in awe and wonderment as you marvel at Slipknot's history.And, of course, this year will be that little bit more special with a specifically curated museum focussing on Slipknot's 25th anniversary and everything it entails.HEAVY caught up with Slipknot Museum Global Director Caelin Meredith from the official Slipknot warehouse - for the once-in-a-lifetime, never-before-seen secret location - to find out more. We talk about everything from what it takes to put together the Slipknot Museum, how much input the band has in the process, what special items we might get, how different this years museum will be to last year, the interactive/playable content, booking entry, why the Slipknot Museum is a must for Knotfest attendees and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

27 Feb 16min

Words by Kris PetersTwo of the all-time punk greats have returned to Australia, with pioneering California dynamos PENNYWISE and beloved Swedish trailblazers MILLENCOLIN touched down and ready to co-headline a huge run Down Under.A band synonymous with punk rock and thought-provoking lyricism, PENNYWISE erupted out of the vibrant coastal setting of Hermosa Beach in California with their self-titled debut album in 1991, ultimately going on to change the sonic landscape and cultivate a sweltering legacy via their unique blend of DIY spirit, hardcore, skate punk and SoCal pop punk. Renowned for their ability to fuse raw emotion and ravenous energy with themes of empowerment and rallying calls for change, PENNYWISE encapsulate the essence of rebellion with anthems like Bro Hymn and Fuck Authority, while also remaining as fundamental to punk rock and hardcore as stage dives and guitars.With twelve studio albums, including their Certified Gold records About Time (1995), Full Circle (1997) and Straight Ahead (1999), PENNYWISE have also showcased their formidable onstage presence across the globe for decades alongside the biggest names in the scene, most recently supporting Dropkick Murphys for a huge North American tour, and also for Aussie audiences last year as part of Good Things Festival. A band fluent in balancing the spirit of punk alongside subversion and celebration, PENNYWISE are primed to bring the revolution to Australian audiences in 2025.HEAVY spoke with bass player Randy Bradbury to find out more."Not much, really," he replied when we ask what has changed with Pennywise since they were last in Australia. "We've been on the same trajectory for a while. For us, it's about getting out there and playing live and having energetic shows. You wouldn't wanna change that, so not a lot has changed. The important stuff is still intact."In the full interview we talk about Australia being like a second home, how good it feels to have half the tour sold out before they even board the plane over here, touring with Millencolin and why the two bands work well together, what we can expect live, his early days in the band and getting used to being in a band he previously loved, sticking to your guns musically and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

26 Feb 9min

Words by Angela CroudaceAfter nearly a decade, Motion City Soundtrack is heading back to Australia, ready to light up stages with their energetic performances. HEAVY caught up with bassist Matt Taylor and guitarist Josh Cain to discuss the tour, their new music, and the exciting moments ahead."It's been 10 years, we're really ready to come back," Matt grins. "It's great to get some sunshine down there!" The band's excitement is palpable as they prepare to join Yellowcard and Plain White T's for their 20th anniversary celebrations. Josh adds, "We've always had similar energy to Yellowcard. Songs like Ocean Avenue really aren't that far off from something we'd write. It's going to be a great match!"While their last Australian shows were a decade ago, the energy between the bands remains strong. The tour is sure to ignite memories for fans and bring fresh experiences, especially with the band's evolving sound.Despite the excitement, there's no denying the challenges of long-distance travel. "It's brutal," Josh jokes about the gruelling flights from Minnesota to Perth. "But we're going to fly out a day early just to acclimate so Justin's not a zombie on stage!" Justin, the band's vocalist, is known for his all-or-nothing approach, which makes this extra preparation crucial for the band's success.The band is also gearing up to release new music after their hiatus, with fans eagerly anticipating their upcoming record. "Stop Talking was a little different for us, structure-wise, but we've been evolving as songwriters," Matt explains. "We've been taking the time to lean into what makes us unique while also embracing our influences."Josh adds, "It's been great to get this time to grow as writers. The new music really feels like a mix of everything we've done before, but it's fresh. I think fans are going to love it."As for their time off the road? Both Matt and Josh value their downtime, and Josh explains, "These days, I just enjoy existing, walking around cities, and hanging out with the guys."With new music, the return to Australia, and the chance to reunite with fans, Motion City Soundtrack is ready for a memorable and electrifying tour ahead.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

26 Feb 25min

Interview by Kris PetersCanadian metal outfit Kittie returned with a vengeance recently after a 13-year hiatus.Crashing onto the scene in 1999 with their debut album Spit, Kittie evolved far beyond their nu-metal origins, developing a crushing, full-fledged metal sound across six albums. They were a mainstay on the scene until taking a layoff which was to last over a decade.After their prolonged absence, Kittie came storming back this year with new album, Fire, a record that fuses every element of their past work into something even more volatile, proving they've lost none of their venom.Having not toured Australia since 2012, Kittie’s return is nothing short of a metal revival. Expect a crash course in their discography that goes far beyond their nu-metal beginnings. From the venomous angst of Spit and the moshpit slam of Brackish to the progressive groove of What I Always Wanted and the hypnotic swagger of In Winter through to powerfully catchy new tracks like Vultures and One Foot in the Grave, Kittie’s set will be an intense journey through their evolution, one that old fans will savour, and new fans won’t forget.For over a quarter of a century, Kittie have defied stereotypes and broken barriers for women in metal, inspiring legions of fans and artists across the globe. Their comeback to Australian shores will be a hero's welcome for long time fans and an initiation for those just discovering their ferocity.HEAVY sat down for a chat with vocalist/guitarist Morgan Lander, starting with what we can expect from their live show."Oh gosh," she smiled. "Well… we've always prided ourselves in being just kind of like a straight-up metal band. I know a lot of bands use a lot of different things these days - technologies and things like that - but we've always been a band that just gets up there, four girls having a great time, just rocking out. A lot of fan interaction. A lot of screaming, and it's gonna be real loud (laughs). We just love what we do and have a great time. It's a fun show. It's a little bit angry, but that's metal, right?"In the full interview, Morgan tells us what has changed with the band since they were last out here, touring with Jinjer, three songs to get to know Kittie better, their return album Fire and how it was received, the pressures associated with their first album in 13 years, the early days of Kittie and where they fit in and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

21 Feb 17min

Interview by Angela CroudaceOne of the architects of The Gothenburg Sound, Dark Tranquillity are about to storm Australian shores for the first time in over a decade, delivering three exclusive shows in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane.The masters of melodic death metal emerged from Sweden’s west coast in the early '90s, alongside titans like In Flames, At The Gates, and Soilwork. Known for their genre-defining mix of razor-sharp riffs, icy keyboards, and Mikael Stanne's haunting vocals, the band melds death metal intensity with gothic and progressive experimentation. Through 13 albums, including iconic releases The Gallery, Character, and their latest, 2024’s Endgame Signals, Dark Tranquillity has forged a sound that is as melancholic and thought provoking as it is ferocious.Joining Dark Tranquillity for their momentous return are Melbourne’s own melodic metal heavyweights, Eye of the Enemy. Renowned for their crushing riffs and soaring melodies, Eye of the Enemy has earned accolades including a Global Metal Apocalypse Award and numerous Album of the Year mentions. With a history of international tours and supporting the who’s who of metal’s elite, they’re the perfect complement to Dark Tranquillity's atmospheric mastery.Dark Tranquillity will dig deep from their rich catalogue to deliver a sonic journey through the past, present, and future of melodic death metal, but just to make sure, HEAVY caught up with vocalist Mikael Stanne just days out from the first show of the tour.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

19 Feb 25min

Interview by Kris PetersBurton C Bell is a name synonymous with metal.Fresh off his induction into the prestigious Metal Hall of Fame, Burton continues to solidify his legacy as a trailblazer of industrial metal. Renowned for his groundbreaking role in Fear Factory, the extreme music pioneer, multimedia talent, and iconoclastic provocateur resurrects his legacy and forward-thinking destiny, remade in a career-spanning incarnation as a singular solo artist. Bell’s discography includes multiple live and recorded collaborations with Black Sabbath icon Geezer Butler and Journey’s Deen Castronovo (as GZR); industrial maverick Al Jourgensen and Ministry; and guest vocal appearances with Pitchshifter, Conflict, Soil, Static-X, Soulfly, and Delain, among others. He’s the vocalist of Ascension Of The Watchers and City Of Fire and, of course, the co-creator of Fear Factory and the only musician to appear on every Fear Factory release from 1992 through 2024.And now Bell has set his sights on Australia for his solo project, which has already spawned two singles in Anti - Droid and Technical Exorcism, with two more promised before June. His Australian shows promise to be an unmissable experience, featuring heavy, groovy, dark, and moody tracks, alongside rare live renditions of deep cuts from his vast discography, but to find out just what to expect, HEAVY spent some time with Bell to get down and dirty."I had a great response," he smiled when we asked about how his first two solo singles were received. "Live, the fans love them. They translate well. The band that I have gathered - or should I say curated, because it took me a couple of years to grab these guys together. I've known them for a few years, but finally I got this band together and the music that we play is really translating… a new groove that is translating in songs in a heavy, groovy, dark and moody way. It's amazing. What you hear is going to be heavier live."In the full interview, Burton talks more about what to expect from the shows, what has changed with him and his music since his last visit in 2021, how the shows will be intimate, what songs he will be drawing from in the set list, future music and if the singles released are an indication of what the album will sound like, how he keeps music fresh and exciting for himself, the songwriting process and if it becomes easier or harder over time, being inducted into the Metal Hall Of Fame and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

18 Feb 12min

Interview by Kris PetersRipper Owens has returned to Australia, but this time he is on his own. Not literally, of course, but for the first time in recent memory, Ripper comes Down Under with a clean slate and no pre-existing musical obligations by way of bands and/or collaborations.As such he is free to pull songs from a vast and varied network spent fronting iconic acts including Judas Priest, Iced Earth, Yngwie Malmsteen, Dio's Disciples, The Three Tremors, KK's PRIEST and the incredibly ferocious RIPPER - a collaborative project spearheaded by Hatebreed's Jamey Jasta.Joined by the Metallic luminary of brothers Joel & Jordan McDonald, Andrew Hudson and Voya Mulitinovic, Ripper’s live assault will be molten as hell… And if you crave anything less - You've Got Another Thing Coming…Ripper's unique skills tore open a fairytale career, across the biggest stages in the world. This run of shows will showcase the absolute, toughest cuts from Ripper's world of Heavy Metal. Expect huge hits, deep dives, virtuosic shred, and a heap of fists in the air, full cavalry style, head-banging glory.HEAVY caught up with Ripper during some rare downtime on the road.We bring up the fact that with so much material to draw from, choosing a set list to appease the masses must seem like an impossible and thankless task. "It is," he nodded. "It is just as it is with anybody. It's the same with KK's Priest, isn't it? We do a lot of KK stuff… probably half and half, but a thing we don't do is a lot of my era of Judas Priest. We do one song, so people complain a lot about that. But it's the same with every band and every artist out there. It's always a pain in the butt and a challenge to make a set list. You will not make everybody happy, and to be honest, in this day and age it's impossible. They're gonna complain. Just by reading comments on posts of mine on social media, people know everything. They know exactly how I should look, sound, what clothes I should wear, what set lists I should have, so you're not gonna make everybody happy. It's really hard to do, and you nailed it. People wanna hear Winters Bane, my first band I released something with, so it is tough, but you've gotta do it. I've toured doing these songs. I know for my South America tour I have coming up I have added Bloodstained in the set list and we might do Jugulator, but it's tough to do it."In the full interview, Ripper tells us what to expect from his shows, his backing band and why he chose them, his recent collaborations with aspiring musicians, musical freedom, what he gets out of playing in so many bands, challenging yourself musically and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heavy-music-interviews--2687660/support.

18 Feb 13min